News for 'political protection'

Kolkata Welcomes Back Taslima Nasreen

Kolkata Welcomes Back Taslima Nasreen

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

After nearly 19 years, exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen returned to Kolkata, calling it a deeply emotional homecoming.

Cauvery row: Karnataka unites as Shivakumar urges calm; Vijay defers visit

Cauvery row: Karnataka unites as Shivakumar urges calm; Vijay defers visit

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday asserted that his government was committed to protecting the interests of the state's farmers and people on the Cauvery issue, while appealing to organisations to withdraw the proposed state-wide bandh.

CJP protest was hijacked by 'history-sheeters': Delhi Police to SC

CJP protest was hijacked by 'history-sheeters': Delhi Police to SC

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Delhi Police has strongly defended its use of force during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest on July 20, telling the Supreme Court that the agitation was 'hijacked by anti-social elements and history-sheeters,' leading to law and order breakdown and over 240 police personnel injuries.

RS okays bill to make insulting Vande Mataram a criminal offence

RS okays bill to make insulting Vande Mataram a criminal offence

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making insult to the national song 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence. The bill, which also covers other national symbols, was passed amidst protests from opposition parties regarding the NEET paper leak. Union Minister Nityanand Rai criticised the opposition's stance, emphasising the song's historical significance and its role in national unity.

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted a resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, urging the Union government to permanently fix the Lok Sabha strength at 543 and implement 33 per cent women's reservation by 2029. The resolution also opposes delimitation that could disadvantage states successful in population control.

'Why Are Our Best Students Dying?'

'Why Are Our Best Students Dying?'

Rediff.com3 days ago

Poor families, she said, cut corners on their own needs to pay for coaching and fees, and when their child clears JEE, it's the happiest day the family has had in years. So why, she asked, her voice already starting to climb, does the same system that we're told is the best in the country keep pushing those very students toward what she called 'institutional deaths'?

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Japan is deepening its defence relationship with India while simultaneously expanding its economic, infrastructure and security engagement with countries around India -- particularly Bangladesh. The result is an emerging Japanese conception of South Asia in which India remains the strategic anchor, but the geography surrounding India is becoming increasingly important, points out Varun Arya.

Zuckerberg apologises for Modi post removal, Meta admits failures

Zuckerberg apologises for Modi post removal, Meta admits failures

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg has issued an apology for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook post, while company executives acknowledged significant content moderation failures, including issues with child sexual abuse material, deepfakes, and the paid boosting of certain content.

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-RSS, labelling them a "bunch of jokers" with no understanding of India, and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy as merely "hugging leaders." He also claimed the RSS has become an instrument of large capital, serving Adani and Ambani, and vowed that the Congress would keep pressure on the government until Modi and Shah resign. The BJP hit back, calling Gandhi immature and out of depth.

Women Wrestlers Vow To Challenge Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's Acquittal In Sexual Harassment Case

Women Wrestlers Vow To Challenge Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's Acquittal In Sexual Harassment Case

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

World Championships medallist Vinesh Phogat announced that women wrestlers will appeal a Delhi court's decision to acquit former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and co-accused Vinod Tomar in a sexual harassment case. Phogat expressed deep sadness over the verdict and alleged that Singh used his influence to intimidate complainants, but affirmed the wrestlers' resolve to continue their fight for justice.

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea by senior advocate Kapil Sibal challenging the interpretation of the Tenth Schedule's 'deemed merger' provision, which allows MLAs and MPs to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law, citing its 'huge repercussions on our polity'.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

Bangladesh court grants bail to Hindu monk, but will remain in jail

Bangladesh court grants bail to Hindu monk, but will remain in jail

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Bangladesh's High Court has granted bail to Hindu rights leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in two cases, though he remains in prison due to four other pending charges, including murder and treason. His arrest in November 2024 on sedition charges had sparked protests and communal tensions, drawing concern from India and occurring amidst strained India-Bangladesh relations following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Gen Z, Watch Out: 10 Digital Traps to Avoid

Gen Z, Watch Out: 10 Digital Traps to Avoid

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Whether you're politically active or simply an everyday internet user, these are ten digital traps worth understanding.

Ranbir Kapoor's Complex Daddy Issues On Screen

Ranbir Kapoor's Complex Daddy Issues On Screen

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Ranbir Kapoor's filmography frequently explores complex father-son relationships, from rebellious youth seeking approval to sons grappling with loss and dysfunctional dynamics, culminating in his latest role as an exiled prince honouring his father's promise in Ramayana.

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'The BJP has all the instruments with them and they do have a sense of purpose, so I don't think there will be a challenge.'

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

At this point at 85, Sharad Pawar is like a mature but ageing trapeze artist who is assessing if he will still land on his feet if he jumps from the safe perch of INDIA to the NDA. Can a Great Betrayal be presented as a tactical move? Watch Sharad Pawar do it, predicts Aditi Phadnis.

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Sanjay Raut defended the strength of Shiv Sena-UBT, backing Aaditya Thackeray as a capable next-generation leader while claiming the party cadre remains loyal to Uddhav Thackeray despite recent MP defections driven by money and central agency pressure.

Amit Shah Accuses Mamata Banerjee Of Protecting Infiltrators

Amit Shah Accuses Mamata Banerjee Of Protecting Infiltrators

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of protecting infiltrators and alleged her associate wants to build a Babri Masjid in the state.

Ravneet Bittu Accuses AAP's Arora Of Lowering Political Discourse

Ravneet Bittu Accuses AAP's Arora Of Lowering Political Discourse

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has launched a strong attack on Punjab AAP chief Aman Arora, accusing him of lowering the standards of political discourse by resorting to personal attacks against his family instead of answering questions on governance.

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.

'Don't intimidate me': History-sheeter dares Kerala home minister

'Don't intimidate me': History-sheeter dares Kerala home minister

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

History-sheeter Arjun Ayanki has publicly challenged Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, daring him to reinvestigate a case and warning him against intimidation. This comes as police intensify their search for Ayanki in connection with allegedly threatening a police officer. Ayanki, known for his involvement in a gold smuggling network, has multiple cases against him, including a recent one for his social media post against the minister.

Vande Mataram bill is first to be passed by both houses in this session

Vande Mataram bill is first to be passed by both houses in this session

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Parliament has passed The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making any insult to the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence, punishable with imprisonment up to three years or a fine.

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Congress party has strongly condemned the 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, after a public meeting addressed by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging it reflects an 'anti-Dalit' mindset of the BJP and RSS.

CJP protest: SC clarifies order, allows FIR withdrawal

CJP protest: SC clarifies order, allows FIR withdrawal

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has clarified that 'criminal antecedents' for NEET paper leak protesters refer only to grave and heinous offences, allowing state governments to withdraw FIRs against students not involved in such serious crimes. This comes after the Centre's commitment to not pursue cases against most protesting students.

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Vande Mataram, the national song that has stirred passions and political controversies for more than a century, received legal protection on Thursday with Parliament passing a bill making any insult to it a punishable offence, rekindling the long-running debate over its place in India's history and identity.

Modi reviews global conflict impact on India's energy, supply chains

Modi reviews global conflict impact on India's energy, supply chains

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday discussed with a group of senior ministers the prevailing global security situation and how to maintain supply chain uninterrupted despite conflicts in different zones, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

HC sentences Tarun Tejpal to 10 years in jail for raping colleague

HC sentences Tarun Tejpal to 10 years in jail for raping colleague

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Former Tehelka editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal has been convicted and sentenced to ten years in jail by the Bombay High Court in a 2013 rape case, overturning a trial court's acquittal and criticising its 'perverse' reasoning.

10-yr-jail, Rs 1 cr fine: Cabinet approves stricter anti-paper leak bill

10-yr-jail, Rs 1 cr fine: Cabinet approves stricter anti-paper leak bill

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Union Cabinet has approved a draft bill to introduce stricter punishments for examination paper leaks, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement. This new legislation builds upon the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aiming to curb cheating in public examinations conducted by various central agencies amidst recent controversies like the NEET and NET paper leaks.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

DMK signals shift on delimitation bill, says will decide on merits

DMK signals shift on delimitation bill, says will decide on merits

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The DMK has announced it will meticulously examine the proposed delimitation Bill when it is introduced in Parliament, making a decision based on its merits to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests. The party's stance will be independent, without consultation with the Congress party, despite their former alliance.

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.

UK anti-migrant protests turn violent; protesters bite, spit at police

UK anti-migrant protests turn violent; protesters bite, spit at police

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

A UK police force said on Friday that its officers have been tackling serious violence, including being bitten and spat at by protesters, over days of anti-migrant clashes at a town in eastern England.

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A new digital political phenomenon, the 'E20 Janta Party', is gaining traction on Instagram, mobilising Gen Z against the government's mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) and demanding Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's resignation.

I could have extended my hunger strike...: Sonam Wangchuk

I could have extended my hunger strike...: Sonam Wangchuk

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Educator-activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike, stating he received assurances from the government and MPs regarding examination reforms, compensation for NEET-UG paper leak victims, and protection for peaceful protesters.

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP's Divisive Politics In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics and attempting to incite violence in Punjab for electoral gains, while reaffirming his government's commitment to peace and communal harmony.

Sunny Deol: 'We Don't Make Films To Create Controversy'

Sunny Deol: 'We Don't Make Films To Create Controversy'

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

'We don't make films to create controversy. I believe our stories are sincere and pure. When people watch them, they connect emotionally.'

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Congress escalated its campaign against alleged examination irregularities by marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, transforming the issue into a direct challenge to his political authority and demanding the resignations of top government officials.

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

After NEET backlash, BJP turns to Instagram to win back young voters

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The BJP is significantly increasing its digital engagement with young people on Instagram, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers, in response to the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and subsequent student protests. This strategic shift aims to counter the narrative and communicate government actions on examination reforms.