News for 'political criticism'

Row erupts as Keralam CM's Islamic scholar criticism vanishes from Facebook

Row erupts as Keralam CM's Islamic scholar criticism vanishes from Facebook

Rediff.com2 days ago

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan's Facebook post criticising Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar's alleged anti-women remarks has disappeared, with the CMO citing a technical error. The incident has sparked political criticism from CPI(M) and BJP, who question the explanation and accuse the Congress of hypocrisy.

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated in the Legislative Council that no cases of communal riots or other crimes have been registered against the RSS. This statement, made in response to an opposition query, has sparked a political controversy, with the BJP criticising Kharge, a vocal RSS critic, for his alleged "political vendetta." Kharge, in turn, clarified that the RSS is not a registered legal entity, and therefore, cases are registered against individuals, not the organisation itself, calling for its registration for transparency.

Rahul Gandhi's Politics Of The Street Wins New Fans

Rahul Gandhi's Politics Of The Street Wins New Fans

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Rahul Gandhi's aggressive street politics is giving him a fresh political edge, but overplaying his role could hurt his credibility with the wider opposition, predicts M R Narayan Swamy.

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The mother of the RG Kar hospital rape-murder victim on Monday rejected Trinamool Congres MLA Kunal Ghosh's comparison between the Rs 10 lakh given to the family of a party worker who died in police custody in Halisahar, and the same amount of compensation announced after her daughter's death.

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Paresh Rawal has robustly defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dismissing claims of divisive politics and asserting that Modi 'never does Hindu-Muslim politics.

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'After announcing that she will return to Bangladesh, if she does not, her credibility will suffer.'

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hits back at World Cup critics, accusing them of spreading 'hate and false narratives'

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hits back at World Cup critics, accusing them of spreading 'hate and false narratives'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly defended the recent World Cup, accusing critics of spreading 'hate and false narratives' and overlooking the tournament's success in promoting unity, safety, and inclusion.

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

It was left to an incensed Gen Z to show the rest of India that enough was enough, and that the time had come to shatter the fear psychosis generated by the government's authoritarian approach to protests and criticism, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Monday's proceedings demonstrated that the legislative debate has become inseparable from the broader political crisis surrounding the NEET controversy.

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A Pune court has granted bail to NCP (SP) office-bearer Mahadev Balgude, ruling that criticism of the government or chief minister does not constitute "waging war" against the nation. The court emphasised every citizen's right to comment on and criticise government actions, noting that the charges under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 152 were debatable.

Axed over daughter's CM remarks? T'gana minister slams Revanth

Axed over daughter's CM remarks? T'gana minister slams Revanth

Rediff.com1 days ago

Telangana Forest Minister Konda Surekha was dropped from the state cabinet, leading her to accuse Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of "blackmail politics." Surekha claims her removal was due to critical remarks made by her daughter against the CM and other party leaders, despite the Congress high command not favouring her ouster. She has written to top Congress leaders seeking intervention.

Youth Protests: Political Parties Must Absorb An Important Lesson

Youth Protests: Political Parties Must Absorb An Important Lesson

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Voters who exercise their franchise in favour of a particular political dispensation do not do so unconditionally. Their loyalty is subject to maintaining trust and living up to their expectations. It is subject to allowing the freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution, points out Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Swatantra Bhardwaj was invited to Modi's swearing-in, I-Day celebration

Swatantra Bhardwaj was invited to Modi's swearing-in, I-Day celebration

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, known for provocative social media posts and claims of political proximity, has been detained in Bulandshahr. His detention follows a viral video where he boasted about assaulting a Jantar Mantar protester's father, leaving him with severe injuries, and claiming to have avoided jail due to political connections. Police acted after public outcry and protests.

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Over 14,000 members of the academic and scientific community have petitioned Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking intervention against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's "gau mutra expert" remark concerning IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti during parliamentary proceedings. The petition calls for the withdrawal of the derogatory expression, arguing it undermines the dignity of an eminent scientist and the institution he leads, and urges for respectful democratic discourse.

Pakistan Cricket Board advises players against commenting on Imran Khan's imprisonment

Pakistan Cricket Board advises players against commenting on Imran Khan's imprisonment

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Pakistan Cricket Board has instructed its players participating in the Test series against England to refrain from commenting on the imprisonment of former captain Imran Khan. This directive follows attempts by British media to elicit comments and a Sky Sports interview with Khan's sons, which the PCB deemed political. The board prioritised diplomatic relations and the ongoing series despite its displeasure.

No external pressure on Sonia book, it came down to one issue: Penguin India

No external pressure on Sonia book, it came down to one issue: Penguin India

Rediff.com5 days ago

Penguin Random House India has denied any external pressure influenced its decision not to publish Sonia Gandhi's memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', stating an 'impasse over a particular issue' led to the author's team withdrawing the book.

Will Dara Singh Be Released Soon?

Will Dara Singh Be Released Soon?

Rediff.com3 days ago

'Dara's case can strengthen the perception among sections of the BJP's traditional support base.'

Ankit Baliyan Murder: Police probe Gogi gang's involvement

Ankit Baliyan Murder: Police probe Gogi gang's involvement

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balyan was shot dead in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh. Police, including the UPSTF, are actively investigating, tracing the assailants to Haryana using CCTV footage. A gang has claimed responsibility, and the incident has sparked protests and political criticism over the state's law and order situation.

Nagendra offered to quit to save Congress from embarrassment: Shivakumar

Nagendra offered to quit to save Congress from embarrassment: Shivakumar

Rediff.com7 days ago

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar confirmed that Minister B Nagendra has offered to resign to avoid embarrassing the Congress party and the government, despite Shivakumar's insistence on Nagendra's innocence in the alleged Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation scam. The Chief Minister stated he would consult the party high command before making a final decision.

'Very, very distressing': SC judge on police crackdown at Jantar Mantar

'Very, very distressing': SC judge on police crackdown at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com7 hours ago

Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan critically examined police conduct in India, raising serious concerns about alleged assaults on protesters, custodial torture, and the urgent need for comprehensive police reforms to uphold human rights and the rule of law.

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

Rediff.com1 hour ago

PTI Editor-in-Chief Vijay Joshi emphasised that democracy thrives on citizens who question everything, not those who blindly believe or disbelieve. Speaking at 'Media Conclave 2026', he highlighted the challenges posed by social media, the focus on speed over verification, and AI-generated fake content, stressing the importance of media credibility for informed decision-making.

Women on public platforms will cause 'great destruction': Islamic scholar

Women on public platforms will cause 'great destruction': Islamic scholar

Rediff.com5 days ago

Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar has sparked controversy by advocating for women's confinement to their homes, citing religious teachings and the concept of purdah to prevent societal "destruction."

Kolkata Janmashtami row: BJP leader drops Muslims, forms all-Hindu panel

Kolkata Janmashtami row: BJP leader drops Muslims, forms all-Hindu panel

Rediff.com3 days ago

A long-standing Janmashtami celebration in Kolkata's Mominpore, known for its syncretic culture with significant Muslim participation, is undergoing a major change. BJP leader Rakesh Singh has taken charge, forming an exclusively Hindu organising committee, sparking a debate about religious harmony, political influence, and the nature of shared festivals in the city.

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

A caste recalibration is simmering just below the surface in UP.

Will follow Centre's Vande Mataram Protocol: Kerala CM

Will follow Centre's Vande Mataram Protocol: Kerala CM

Rediff.com3 days ago

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan stated that the state government adheres to Central protocol for Vande Mataram recitation when the President, Vice-President, or Prime Minister attend official functions, despite his party's internal policy. This clarification follows a controversy and protests from the CPI(M) and SFI regarding the full rendition of the national song at a recent state event.

BJP seeks FIR against Pawan Khera for remarks on Amit Shah

BJP seeks FIR against Pawan Khera for remarks on Amit Shah

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The BJP has strongly objected to alleged derogatory remarks made by Congress leader Pawan Khera against Union Home Minister Amit Shah. A BJP delegation in Shimla submitted a written complaint to the police, demanding the registration of an FIR against Khera for using objectionable language, which they claim crosses the limits of political decency.

Yasin Malik's dramatic affidavit: Not guilty, seeks death, divorces wife

Yasin Malik's dramatic affidavit: Not guilty, seeks death, divorces wife

Rediff.com1 days ago

Jailed Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Mohammad Yasin Malik, accused in the 1990 murder of a Kashmiri Pandit woman, has submitted a 25-page affidavit. In it, he pleads not guilty, refuses to contest the case, and asks for capital punishment. Malik also announced his decision to divorce his wife, Mushaal Hussein Mullick, citing prolonged incarceration and inability to communicate. He claims the charges are fabricated and politically motivated, arguing he was critically injured at the time of the alleged murder.

Islam is 'greater' than other religions: K'taka minister sparks row

Islam is 'greater' than other religions: K'taka minister sparks row

Rediff.com5 days ago

Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi stated that Islam is "greater" than other religions and expressed a desire to visit Mecca, despite being a non-Muslim. These remarks, made at a mass marriage event, drew sharp criticism from BJP leader R Ashoka, who accused the minister of portraying Sanatana Dharma in an inferior light and demanded his apology or removal from the cabinet by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

Claim by Gogi gang 'member' adds new twist to Ankit Balyan murder probe

Claim by Gogi gang 'member' adds new twist to Ankit Balyan murder probe

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The investigation into the murder of Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balyan in Shamli has taken a turn after a person allegedly from Sonipat and belonging to the Gogi gang claimed responsibility for the killing in a social media post, officials said on Thursday.

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The US State Department has paused visa appointments worldwide to conduct a 'global training initiative' for consular officers, aiming to ensure applicants are not likely to become a 'public charge' and are comprehensively evaluated, intensifying President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

Stronger and wiser: Anaya Bangar opens up on lonely journey back to cricket

Stronger and wiser: Anaya Bangar opens up on lonely journey back to cricket

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Anaya Bangar says her difficult transition journey made her stronger and wiser, with Cricket Australia's clearance giving her a pathway back to women's cricket after BCCI silence.

Sugar should be 'very expensive': BJP leader amid price surge

Sugar should be 'very expensive': BJP leader amid price surge

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has ignited a political firestorm with his controversial remarks suggesting sugar should be "very expensive" and avoided by those over 40, drawing sharp criticism from the opposition amidst rising inflation concerns.

Cong's 'gungi gudiya' jibe at Maha deputy CM Sunetra Pawar sparks row

Cong's 'gungi gudiya' jibe at Maha deputy CM Sunetra Pawar sparks row

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Maharashtra Congress on Tuesday branded deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar a "gungi gudiya" (mute doll), drawing a sharp rebuttal from the Nationalist Congress Party, which asked if the Opposition party now endorses the infamous slur once hurled at former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is campaigning for re-election by positioning himself as the advocate for less wealthy football nations, while UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled out running against him but anticipates an opposition candidate.

Tata Sons narrows chairman search to T V Narendran, Saurabh Agrawal, and NSE's Ashish Chauhan a 'dark horse'

Tata Sons narrows chairman search to T V Narendran, Saurabh Agrawal, and NSE's Ashish Chauhan a 'dark horse'

Rediff.com6 hours ago

The search for N Chandrasekaran's successor as Tata Sons Chairman has reportedly narrowed to Tata Steel CEO T V Narendran, Tata Sons Executive Director Saurabh Agrawal, and NSE MD & CEO Ashish Chauhan, with Chauhan emerging as a potential 'dark horse' candidate.

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Sumit Sarkar was never intellectually dismissive of the Hindutva project. He took it with deadly seriousness for he grasped the challenge it posed to the aspirations and ideals of the anti-imperialist movement that generated multiple imaginings of freedom and ways to attain it, recalls Pradeep Kumar Dutta.

Cong to stick to 2-stanza Vande Mataram; BJP calls it 'New Muslim League'

Cong to stick to 2-stanza Vande Mataram; BJP calls it 'New Muslim League'

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Congress Working Committee has decided to adhere to its 1937 resolution, mandating that only the first two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' be sung at all party events, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which labelled the Congress the 'new Muslim League'.

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Rediff.com3 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the SCO summit in Bishkek, called for a united front against terrorism and its financing, rejecting double standards. He emphasised resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, not battlefields. Modi also highlighted that connectivity projects must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative. India's vision for SCO rests on security, connectivity, and opportunity.

US body seeks sanctions against RSS, opposes Mohan Bhagwat's visit

US body seeks sanctions against RSS, opposes Mohan Bhagwat's visit

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and advised the US government against extending diplomatic courtesies to its leaders. This comes ahead of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's visit to the US, with USCIRF officials citing allegations of attacks on religious minorities by RSS sub-groups. India has consistently rejected USCIRF's reports as biased and selective.

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The incident, which occurred early Monday morning, was reportedly caused by a sparking ventilator.