News for 'political speech'

UK-Based Doctor Claims FIR is Attempt to Criminalise Political Speech

UK-Based Doctor Claims FIR is Attempt to Criminalise Political Speech

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

A UK-based doctor, Sangram Patil, is challenging an FIR filed against him in India for alleged objectionable remarks against BJP leaders, claiming it's an attempt to criminalise political speech and dissent.

SC asks political leaders to foster fraternity, refuses PIL on political speeches

SC asks political leaders to foster fraternity, refuses PIL on political speeches

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has urged political leaders to promote fraternity while declining to entertain a PIL seeking guidelines on political speeches, emphasizing the need for objectivity and even-handedness in addressing concerns about hate speech and constitutional values.

'Within framework of law': Nagpur top cop defends RSS event speech

'Within framework of law': Nagpur top cop defends RSS event speech

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Nagpur Commissioner of Police Vishwas Nangare Patil has addressed the controversy surrounding an old video where he appeared to praise the RSS. He asserted that his remarks at the event were within legal frameworks and did not violate service rules, emphasising his commitment to the Constitution and respect for all communities. The controversy arose after the Maharashtra Congress and MNS chief Raj Thackeray criticised his speech, questioning his neutrality.

BJP's New Game: Political Engineering

BJP's New Game: Political Engineering

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Ideology is dead; long live the numbers game that is being played with the sole intention of securing a two-third majority in the Lok Sabha for the NDA, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The bill was passed by both houses of the state legislature during the winter session in Belagavi that concluded on December 19 last year, despite strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Dal-Secular.

Courts And The Hate Speech Dilemma

Courts And The Hate Speech Dilemma

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Courts cannot be the only hope for those fighting hate speech. Countering its effects on the ground takes more effort. With our political parties unwilling to put in that amount of effort, it's left to citizens to do so, points out Jyoti Punwani.

Nagpur commissioner's RSS praise draws Congress ire, demands probe

Nagpur commissioner's RSS praise draws Congress ire, demands probe

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Maharashtra Congress has called for an inquiry into IPS officer Vishwas Nangre Patil's speech at a Hindu Sakal Samaj event, where he reportedly praised the RSS. The party alleges that the speech raises questions about his neutrality and adherence to All India Services (Conduct) Rules, especially concerning political neutrality and the requirement for prior permission for such public engagements. Nangare Patil was recently appointed Nagpur police commissioner, a city known for housing the RSS headquarters.

Banerjee Accuses Modi Of Spreading Falsehoods In Speeches

Banerjee Accuses Modi Of Spreading Falsehoods In Speeches

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of spreading falsehoods and offering no relief to the poor through his speeches. She made these remarks at a rally in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas district, ahead of Modi's address to the nation.

Mamata back to street politics, sits on dharna in Kolkata over post-poll violence

Mamata back to street politics, sits on dharna in Kolkata over post-poll violence

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The protest was triggered by alleged attacks following the BJP's victory in recent assembly elections.

Maharashtra speaker gets Lata Mangeshkar's father's name wrong, apologises

Maharashtra speaker gets Lata Mangeshkar's father's name wrong, apologises

Rediff.com5 days ago

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar has expressed regret for incorrectly uttering certain Marathi words while reading obituary references in the House. He attributed the error to technical issues and an unclear printed copy, stating he had no intention of hurting sentiments, following criticism from MNS chief Raj Thackeray regarding the mispronunciation of names like Asha Bhosle and Deenanath Mangeshkar.

'Vijay's Government Will Be Pulled Down By December 2027'

'Vijay's Government Will Be Pulled Down By December 2027'

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

'You will have the President's rule for 7 to 8 months, And Annamalai will be the hero in those 7 months.'

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

In an apparent reference to the buzz of six rebel Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MPs switching sides, Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said this is just a trailer and the movie is yet to come, indicating more defections could be in offing in the rival faction.

RG Kar doc's mother breaks down in assembly as CM Suvendu promises justice

RG Kar doc's mother breaks down in assembly as CM Suvendu promises justice

Rediff.com6 days ago

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday said in the assembly that justice would be delivered in the RG Kar hospital rape and murder case, leaving the victim's mother, a BJP MLA who was present in the House, in tears.

FIR against Mamata Banerjee for 'provocative remarks'

FIR against Mamata Banerjee for 'provocative remarks'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

An FIR has been registered against former West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee for allegedly making provocative remarks during the last assembly poll campaign, with a complaint stating her comments were 'capable of promoting enmity between communities'.

A decade after Brexit, Britain prepares for seventh PM

A decade after Brexit, Britain prepares for seventh PM

Rediff.com6 days ago

A referendum 10 years ago on this day set the United Kingdom on a new path as a non-member of the European Union (EU) and the turmoil of that Brexit vote continues to play out as the country prepares for its seventh prime minister in a decade.

How fish has become a political storm in Bengal elections

How fish has become a political storm in Bengal elections

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

In West Bengal's assembly elections, fish has become a potent symbol of Bengali identity, with the Trinamool Congress and BJP clashing over food habits and cultural representation.

BJP Must Be Wary About Inducting Fleeing TMC Leaders

BJP Must Be Wary About Inducting Fleeing TMC Leaders

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Both the political executive in New Delhi and the newly elected political dispensation in Kolkata must be careful to ensure that their image is not tarnished by induction of undesirable elements in the name of political expediency, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Uddhav gets emotional, offers to quit as party chief amid MPs' revolt

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Facing revolt by 6 Lok Sabha MPs of his party, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said he was ready to quit his post if the party didn't have faith in him, while his opponent and Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde hinted at more defections from the rival camp.

Distress address, outright lies: Oppn tears into Modi's address

Distress address, outright lies: Oppn tears into Modi's address

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Opposition leaders have criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation, calling it politically motivated and a misuse of official platforms during ongoing elections.

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Dr Subhash Kashyap not only enhanced Parliament's image in India and abroad, but also the position of Lok Sabha secretary-general which succeeding secretary-generals have upheld thorough neutrality, objectivity and high degree of professionalism, notes Rup Narayan Das.

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Election Commission will examine a complaint filed by opposition parties alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation violated the Model Code of Conduct for elections.

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi told INDIA bloc leaders that despite public anger indicating a win for the opposition, the main challenge is the alleged lack of free and fair elections due to the BJP's control over state institutions. He urged unity and a strategy of 'resistance' against what he termed election 'theft'.

HC notice to Assam CM Himanta over hate speech PILs

HC notice to Assam CM Himanta over hate speech PILs

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The Gauhati High Court has issued a notice to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in response to Public Interest Litigations (PILs) accusing him of hate speech, with the court also issuing notices to the Centre, state government, and DGP, and setting a hearing date for April 21.

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

If one has to compare the tenures of the two prime ministers one must credit Nehru with laying the foundations on which Modi is building a grand edifice, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

BJP rigged vote counting in 177 seats, alleges Mamata

BJP rigged vote counting in 177 seats, alleges Mamata

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Mamata Banerjee alleges BJP rigged the West Bengal elections and announces plans for a nationwide anti-BJP alliance. She also protests against post-poll violence and arrests of TMC workers.

Meghalaya LoP Files FIR Against Ex-MLA Over Alleged Provocative Speech

Meghalaya LoP Files FIR Against Ex-MLA Over Alleged Provocative Speech

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Meghalaya's Leader of the Opposition, Mukul Sangma, has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against former legislator Estamur Momin over an allegedly provocative speech concerning the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.

Main Vaapas Aaunga: A Rare Gem

Main Vaapas Aaunga: A Rare Gem

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

At a time when the politics of hostility has engulfed the world and escalated it into senseless wars Main Vaapas Aaunga's unwavering belief in love is a testament to cinema's uplifting gifts, notes Sukanya Verma.

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Rediff.com25 May 2026

West Bengal's Bharatiya Janata Party government has moved to institutionalise its "detect, delete and deport" policy by directing all district administrations to set up "holding centres" for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting repatriation -- a step that appeared to give administrative shape to one of the party's most potent political themes in the state.

Kerala CM's Interaction with Landslide Survivor Sparks Political Debate

Kerala CM's Interaction with Landslide Survivor Sparks Political Debate

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's interaction with a young landslide survivor during a township inauguration has ignited a political debate, with CPI (M) leaders contrasting it with PM Modi's earlier interaction with the same girl.

Kerala CM's Interaction with Landslide Survivor Sparks Political Debate

Kerala CM's Interaction with Landslide Survivor Sparks Political Debate

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's interaction with a young landslide survivor during a township inauguration has ignited a political debate, with CPI (M) leaders contrasting it with PM Modi's earlier interaction with the same child.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Siddaramaiah begins 'new innings' with Delhi meetings

Siddaramaiah begins 'new innings' with Delhi meetings

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Siddaramaiah met Rahul Gandhi to discuss his future role within the Congress party after resigning as Chief Minister of Karnataka. The meeting addressed his potential future roles and the formation of the new Karnataka government.

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'a Great One', while Russia hailed him as the 'doyen of all Indian prime ministers' as world leaders congratulated him on becoming India's longest continuously serving elected representative at the top post.

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The CJP's rapid rise on social media reflects growing digital dissent and youth frustration with issues like unemployment and exam-paper leaks.

'I love Modi. India can count on me 100%': Trump's phone call at live Delhi event

'I love Modi. India can count on me 100%': Trump's phone call at live Delhi event

Rediff.com25 May 2026

US President Donald Trump reiterated his strong support for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, declaring that 'India can count on me 100 per cent' during a celebratory event marking the 250th anniversary of American independence in New Delhi.

SC refuses pre-arrest bail to Pawan Khera, asks him to move Assam court

SC refuses pre-arrest bail to Pawan Khera, asks him to move Assam court

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to entertain Congress leader Pawan Khera's plea seeking protection against possible coercive action until April 20 in a case lodged against him for levelling allegations against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife.

'Calculated campaign': HC initiates contempt action against Kejriwal, others

'Calculated campaign': HC initiates contempt action against Kejriwal, others

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has initiated criminal contempt proceedings against several AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, for their social media posts against a judge in relation to the excise policy case.

Aakhri Sawal Can't Clear RSS Misconceptions

Aakhri Sawal Can't Clear RSS Misconceptions

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Rather than wasting time on rhetoric, emotions and drama, if Aakhri Sawal had engaged in a serious debate with more controversial questions and stronger arguments to counter them, it would have enriched the viewer as well as lifted the discourse, observes Utkarsh Mishra.

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee has declared that removing the BJP from power is her life's mission, alleging election rigging and vowing to support TMC workers. She announced a nationwide anti-BJP programme and protested against post-poll violence and government actions.

Sanatana Dharma divides, must be 'abolished': Udhayanidhi

Sanatana Dharma divides, must be 'abolished': Udhayanidhi

Rediff.com12 May 2026

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin reiterated his call for the abolition of Sanatana Dharma, claiming it divides people, during his maiden speech as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. He also addressed concerns regarding the positioning of the Tamil invocation song in government events.