News for 'political links'

US water systems under cyber attack, Iran link probed

US water systems under cyber attack, Iran link probed

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Malicious cyber activity has disrupted technology at water and wastewater facilities in at least seven US states, forcing utilities to revert to manual operations, with authorities actively probing whether Iranian-linked hackers are responsible.

'Why link it to delimitation?': Rahul, Rijiju spar over women's quota

'Why link it to delimitation?': Rahul, Rijiju spar over women's quota

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Congress and BJP are engaged in a political spat over the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill and its proposed link to delimitation, with Rahul Gandhi urging unconditional implementation of the 2023 law and Kiren Rijiju highlighting the constitutional requirement for delimitation based on post-2026 census figures.

Suvendu aide murder: CBI arrests two brothers, probes rival party link

Suvendu aide murder: CBI arrests two brothers, probes rival party link

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested two key suspects in the plot to murder West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's close aide Chandranath Rath, uncovering potential links to the functionary of a rival political party in the state, officials said on Friday.

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has intensified his attack on the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, demanding a scrutiny of call detail records of temple employees. He claims a significant majority of them have links to the BJP and accuses the ruling party of prioritising electoral gains over religious values amidst an ongoing SIT probe and recent resignations within the temple trust.

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's Kolkata residence has sparked a political row. The TMC alleges it's to prevent her from visiting the family of an 11-year-old rape and murder victim in Baruipur, while the BJP claims it's routine security. This comes amidst public outrage and violence following the girl's death.

CBI charges 13 in NEET-UG paper leak case; names experts, coaching links

CBI charges 13 in NEET-UG paper leak case; names experts, coaching links

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday filed a charge sheet against 13 accused in the NEET UG 2026 paper leak case, including three paper experts, two associated with coaching centres, middlemen and a number of beneficiary candidates, officials said on Tuesday.

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Thierry Henry, including the UEFA, Belgium and several football figures questioned FIFA's late decision to suspend USA's Folarin Balogun's World Cup ban.

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has dismissed Belgium's challenge regarding the eligibility of US striker Folarin Balogun, upholding the controversial decision to suspend his one-match ban ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 clash, despite the US ultimately losing 4-1 to Belgium and being eliminated.

How can stones reveal CJP protesters' identity? BJP minister has an answer

How can stones reveal CJP protesters' identity? BJP minister has an answer

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Maharashtra BJP minister Chandrakant Patil claimed Delhi Police are collecting fingerprints from stones used in the CJP agitation and linking them to Aadhaar numbers for protester identification and background checks. This statement, made in Kolhapur, drew sharp criticism and mockery from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who suggested Patil be nominated for a Nobel Prize for his "scientific innovation." The CJP protest at Jantar Mantar involved clashes and stone-pelting over examination paper leaks.

Arrested JeM operative was tasked with tracking WB CM Adhikari's movements

Arrested JeM operative was tasked with tracking WB CM Adhikari's movements

Rediff.com5 days ago

A suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative, Hamim Mondal, was arrested for allegedly reconnoitering West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's residence in Kolkata. The plot, directed by Pakistan-based handlers, involved tracking the CM's movements and identifying security vulnerabilities, with investigators probing potential links to ISI and a larger conspiracy for sabotage.

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

Rediff.com3 days ago

The ruling BJP in West Bengal has suspended 22 functionaries, including several mandal presidents, over allegations of extortion and indiscipline. This action follows public warnings from the party leadership against adopting an 'extortion culture' and comes ahead of a visit by BJP's central in-charge for West Bengal, Sunil Bansal, to review the party's organisation and the new government's functioning.

'Firmly believe Fadnavis will become PM sooner or later': CM's uncle

'Firmly believe Fadnavis will become PM sooner or later': CM's uncle

Rediff.com6 days ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' paternal uncle, Balasaheb Fadnavis, expressed his firm belief that his nephew would "sooner or later" become the Prime Minister of India. This statement comes amidst growing speculation about Devendra Fadnavis' potential shift to national politics, especially following recent political developments and claims by Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders.

Mamata's convoy attacked with mud, stones, slippers in Bengal

Mamata's convoy attacked with mud, stones, slippers in Bengal

Rediff.com4 hours ago

Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee's vehicle was surrounded by protesters, who allegedly hurled mud, slippers, and stones, while shouting 'chor' (thief) and 'dakait rani' (queen of thieves) slogans during her visit to Halisahar.

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Why the industry's public position changed is difficult to say. What the developments did establish, though, is that ethanol-blended petrol has become one of the country's most politically and commercially sensitive policy issues.

Don't Troll Him: Assam CM On Minister's Daughter Joining NEET Protest

Don't Troll Him: Assam CM On Minister's Daughter Joining NEET Protest

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended his Cabinet colleague Keshab Mahanta after Mahanta's daughter joined a protest against NEET exam irregularities, stating that children's actions should not be linked to their parents' political ideologies.

Mithun Chakraborty Recovers Well After Surgery

Mithun Chakraborty Recovers Well After Surgery

Rediff.com2 days ago

Mithunda is expected to be discharged from hospital soon.

TMC Alleges Political Vendetta After Police Search Abhishek Banerjee's Residence

TMC Alleges Political Vendetta After Police Search Abhishek Banerjee's Residence

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned a pre-dawn police search at MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kalighat residence in connection with an alleged financial fraud, calling it an act of political vendetta by West Bengal's BJP government. The party claims the search yielded no incriminating evidence, intensifying political confrontation in the state.

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Rediff.com2 days ago

Rahul Gandhi recently connected with Gen Z through an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, offering candid responses on student protests, his views on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and even his philosophy on pet ownership.

Suspected Jaish operative held in Bengal; STF probes spy network

Suspected Jaish operative held in Bengal; STF probes spy network

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

A suspected operative of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) was arrested in West Bengal's Purba Bardhaman district, and investigators believe he could be part of an ISI-backed network tasked with collecting intelligence on VIPs including BJP leaders, recruiting operatives and laying the groundwork for possible terror activities in the state.

Mumbai mayor orders withdrawal of controversial heritage bungalow tender

Mumbai mayor orders withdrawal of controversial heritage bungalow tender

Rediff.com4 days ago

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to withdraw a controversial Rs 3 crore tender for upgradation works around her official heritage bungalow in Byculla. The tender, issued by the BMC's zoo department, faced strong objections from the opposition, particularly Shiv Sena (UBT), which alleged misuse of public funds. Tawde clarified that the works were for the surrounding area, not the bungalow itself, and cited the tender's mention of the Mayor's bungalow as the reason for its withdrawal.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Court summons Uddhav, Shinde in 17-year-old defamation case

Court summons Uddhav, Shinde in 17-year-old defamation case

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) head Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have been directed by a Thane magistrate's court to appear in connection with a 17-year-old defamation complaint. The case, filed by late NCP leader Vasant Davkhare, relates to a controversial video screened during the 2009 Lok Sabha elections.

Maharashtra Opposition walks out to protest over TET exam paper leak, demands probe

Maharashtra Opposition walks out to protest over TET exam paper leak, demands probe

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Maharashtra legislature witnessed widespread protests as Opposition legislators accused the government of failing to prevent examination paper leaks, including the recent Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and NEET. Senior leaders alleged links between those behind the leaks and the BJP, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the examination process and government accountability.

UP Man Arrested For Alleged Links To Pak Terror Network

UP Man Arrested For Alleged Links To Pak Terror Network

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a man from Azamgarh for allegedly working for a terror network linked to Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

2 youths abused by right-wing activist for Jantar Mantar protest

2 youths abused by right-wing activist for Jantar Mantar protest

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Two youths from Bareilly, allegedly harassed and assaulted by an activist linked to a Hindu outfit while en route to a NEET paper leak protest in Delhi, have demanded strict legal action. The incident, captured in a viral video, has drawn condemnation from Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who called for the accused's immediate arrest.

Birbhum cash haul rises to Rs 28 cr, stone trader at large

Birbhum cash haul rises to Rs 28 cr, stone trader at large

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

West Bengal police have seized a staggering Rs 28.5 crore in cash and 15 kg of gold from the residence of absconding stone trader Tullu Mondal's manager and brother-in-law, Minar Mondal, in Birbhum district, leading to his arrest.

Political Fallout After Jharkhand Girl's Murder: JMM Rallies, Congress Alleges BJP Link

Political Fallout After Jharkhand Girl's Murder: JMM Rallies, Congress Alleges BJP Link

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Jharkhand's ruling JMM party held rallies and the Congress party alleged a BJP link in the murder case of a 12-year-old girl, while the BJP denies any involvement and accuses the ruling alliance of defamation.

It will be better if..: CJP's Dipke on Bhagwat's Gen Z dialogue

It will be better if..: CJP's Dipke on Bhagwat's Gen Z dialogue

Rediff.com5 days ago

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), emphasised the importance of young or Gen Z voices leading dialogues with youth, ahead of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's interaction with students in Mumbai. Dipke highlighted that youth protests, including those against the NEET paper leak, have compelled leaders to engage with Gen Z. He also expressed solidarity with students protesting alleged paper leaks in Jharkhand, criticising the government's handling of the issue.

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Andrea Pirlo's potential appointment as Italy's head coach is facing significant political opposition due to his commercial ties as a global ambassador for Russian betting company Fonbet, with Italian parliamentarians and football federation figures expressing concerns.

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

'Delimitation is scheduled for 2028. No matter how much the BJP currently depends on the Shinde Sena or NCP factions, it may not need them after delimitation.'

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Former Italy international Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from contention for the national team's head coach position after his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet drew significant criticism and opposition from Italian football officials and lawmakers.

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Rediff.com2 days ago

The challenge thrown by the youth movement creates the opportunity for a more consequential debate on India's economic trajectory because it must remain centered on India's youth as its driving impulse, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

NCP Leader Rupali Chakankar Grilled Over Godman Links

NCP Leader Rupali Chakankar Grilled Over Godman Links

Rediff.com10 May 2026

NCP leader Rupali Chakankar appeared before a special investigation team (SIT) for questioning regarding her alleged association with self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who is under arrest in rape and sexual exploitation cases. Chakankar, who resigned as the state women's panel chief, has pledged full cooperation with the probe.

AI could erode India's outsourcing advantage, warns WB report

AI could erode India's outsourcing advantage, warns WB report

Rediff.com4 days ago

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to alter hiring patterns in South Asia, with multinational companies (MNCs) and firms integrated into global value chains (GVCs) reducing recruitment more sharply than domestic firms, signalling the technology's early impact on the region's export-oriented services sector, according to the World Bank's World Development Report 2026.

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Punjab Minister Aman Arora has accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of defaming him by linking his name to recent raids in a money laundering probe. Arora alleges the BJP-led Centre is running a politically motivated campaign to malign him and has offered full cooperation with any inquiry.

Jharkhand protestors seek probe by ex-judge from outside state into exam paper leaks

Jharkhand protestors seek probe by ex-judge from outside state into exam paper leaks

Rediff.com5 days ago

Job aspirants in Jharkhand are protesting alleged paper leaks in PSC and other recruitment exams, demanding an independent inquiry by retired high court judges from outside the state. They have lost faith in the ongoing CID investigation, citing past failures, and threaten to intensify their agitation if their demands for a CBI or independent judicial probe are not met. The protests have garnered support from various organisations, with one leader on an indefinite hunger strike.

Congress Accuses BJP Of Exploiting Tribals For Political Gain

Congress Accuses BJP Of Exploiting Tribals For Political Gain

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Jharkhand Congress has accused the BJP of attempting to gain political advantage by organising large tribal gatherings while allegedly undermining the rights of tribal communities at the grassroots level.

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Having governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years, the BJD now finds itself in the unfamiliar role of Opposition. Its organisational overhaul following the 2024 defeat has yet to produce a recognisable second line of leadership.

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

C Joseph Vijay's Jana Nayagan is not just a film but a potent political statement, strategically crafted to align with his political aspirations and claim the legacy of M G Ramachandran, notes Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

DMK doesn't walk out with Opposition, will it walk with govt?

DMK doesn't walk out with Opposition, will it walk with govt?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The DMK has been charting an independent course from the Congress-led Opposition bloc on contentious issues during the Monsoon Session, including not joining a walkout over the anti-paper leak bill and participating in a debate on the National Honour Bill, signalling growing fault lines within the Opposition.