News for 'religious leaders'

Sena leader Nirupam claims Bangladesh links to Nagpur violence

Sena leader Nirupam claims Bangladesh links to Nagpur violence

Rediff.com23 Mar 2025

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam has alleged the involvement of individuals with links to Bangladesh in the recent violence in Nagpur. Nirupam also claimed the violence was "pre-meditated" and was part of a larger conspiracy. He further expressed concerns about the broader implications of the stance of the Shiv Sena (UBT), suggesting the Uddhav Thackeray-led party has shifted to an "anti-Hindu" position. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, however, said it was too early to comment on a foreign or Bangladeshi link to the Nagpur violence.

The High Stakes In Dalai Lama's Succession

The High Stakes In Dalai Lama's Succession

Rediff.com3 Jul 2025

On July 2 or July 6, the Dalai Lama will reveal his mind on his successor. This makes Beijing extremely nervous as the Communist regime fully realises the importance of controlling the next Dalai Lama, points out Claude Arpi.

From Gujarat To Global Stage: Modi's 25 Year Journey

From Gujarat To Global Stage: Modi's 25 Year Journey

Rediff.com22 Oct 2025

'I disagree with much of Modi's politics, but it cannot be denied that in these years in office, he has carved more than a niche for himself in history,' points out Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, author, Narendra Modi: The Man, The Times.

SP leader moves SC for effective implementation of Places of Worship Act

SP leader moves SC for effective implementation of Places of Worship Act

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Samajwadi Party leader and Kairana MP Iqra Choudhary has moved the Supreme Court seeking effective implementation of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. This move comes amidst several petitions challenging the law's validity, including those filed by the Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay. The Supreme Court, in December 2022, had restrained all courts from examining fresh suits and passing interim orders in pending cases seeking to reclaim religious places. The Act aims to maintain the religious character of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947, but the dispute relating to Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid at Ayodhya was kept out of its purview. The court has listed Choudhary's plea with other pending pleas for February 17.

Tejashwi Yadav booked by Maha police over X post on Modi

Tejashwi Yadav booked by Maha police over X post on Modi

Rediff.com23 Aug 2025

Milind Ramji Narote, a BJP MLA from Maharashtra's Gadchiroli, had filed a complaint against Tejashwi Yadav on Friday.

Indian History Congress slams NCERT modules on Partition

Indian History Congress slams NCERT modules on Partition

Rediff.com26 Aug 2025

The Indian History Congress (IHC) has criticized NCERT's new Partition Horrors Remembrance Day modules, alleging they spread falsehoods with communal intent by depicting the Congress as complicit in Partition while absolving the British.

AliExpress removes Jagannath doormats after backlash, apologises

AliExpress removes Jagannath doormats after backlash, apologises

Rediff.com1 Aug 2025

A major controversy has erupted in Odisha after Chinese e-commerce platform AliExpress was found selling doormats featuring the image of Lord Jagannath, sparking outrage and prompting police complaints and demands for an apology.

Feud erupts in Matua head family in Bengal; BJP uneasy

Feud erupts in Matua head family in Bengal; BJP uneasy

Rediff.com25 Aug 2025

A family feud within the politically influential Matua community has erupted between Union minister Shantanu Thakur and his brother, BJP MLA Subrata Thakur, creating ripples in West Bengal's political landscape and posing a challenge for the BJP ahead of upcoming elections.

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

'I Love Muhammad' campaign: Cleric among 39 held after violence

Rediff.com27 Sep 2025

In a major crackdown, police arrested 39 people, including local cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, in connection with the violence during the 'I love Muhammad' campaign after Friday prayers in Bareilly, while authorities suspended internet service in the district for 48 hours beginning Saturday.

Not foreign hand, unruly youths behind violence: Leh Apex Body

Not foreign hand, unruly youths behind violence: Leh Apex Body

Rediff.com26 Sep 2025

The Leh Apex Body (LAB) is demanding a judicial probe into the recent violence in Leh, which resulted in four deaths and numerous injuries. The LAB co-chairman, Chering Dorjay, denies any foreign involvement and alleges excessive force by police and CRPF personnel.

Union ministers meet Kerala suicide victim's family, back NIA probe demand

Union ministers meet Kerala suicide victim's family, back NIA probe demand

Rediff.com14 Aug 2025

Two Union Ministers visited the family of a 23-year-old woman in Kothamangalam who allegedly took her own life due to harassment by her lover. The family is demanding an NIA probe into the incident, alleging forced religious conversion.

Safety of our daughters: Chh'garh CM defends nuns' arrest amid political row

Safety of our daughters: Chh'garh CM defends nuns' arrest amid political row

Rediff.com29 Jul 2025

The arrest of two Catholic nuns from Kerala in Chhattisgarh on charges of human trafficking and forced religious conversion has ignited a political controversy, with opposition parties criticizing the arrest and the Chief Minister defending the police action.

Banu Mushtaq inaugurates Mysuru Dasara festival amid row

Banu Mushtaq inaugurates Mysuru Dasara festival amid row

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

The decision to invite Mushtaq had sparked controversy, with several petitions challenging the Karnataka government's move.

Dalai Lama's successor must get China's nod, says Beijing; US rift likely

Dalai Lama's successor must get China's nod, says Beijing; US rift likely

Rediff.com2 Jul 2025

His successor issue is also expected to flare up fresh tensions between Beijing and Washington as China's policy comes in conflict with the US Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020, which reaffirmed America's steadfast support for the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism.

Gandhi Called Him 'Father Of The Nation'

Gandhi Called Him 'Father Of The Nation'

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

On his 200th birth anniversary, Utkarsh Mishra traces the life, thought, and legacy of Dadabhai Naoroji, the Grand Old Man of India.

Has Vijay Changed After Karur Stampede?

Has Vijay Changed After Karur Stampede?

Rediff.com25 Oct 2025

Vijay, despite the loud message from his delayed arrival at the road-show/stampede venue, and more so his continued inaccessibility for fans-turned-cadres after graduating from a super-star to a political party leader with electoral ambitions, refuses to change. Or, so it seems, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

Nuns' arrest fuels Chhattisgarh's push for tougher anti-conversion law

Nuns' arrest fuels Chhattisgarh's push for tougher anti-conversion law

Rediff.com29 Jul 2025

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma announced plans for a new anti-conversion law following the arrest of two nuns from Kerala on charges related to religious conversion and human trafficking. The announcement comes amid political tensions and accusations of wrongful arrest.

For Bengal violence, Mamata blames Centre, BJP, BSF

For Bengal violence, Mamata blames Centre, BJP, BSF

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Border Security Force (BSF), central agencies, and the BJP of fanning tension in Murshidabad by allegedly facilitating cross-border influx from Bangladesh. She also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to keep the Union Home Ministry under control. Banerjee has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of three people killed during the violence and directed the state chief secretary to initiate a probe into the role of the BSF.

Tharoor gets SC relief in 'scorpion' remark against Modi

Tharoor gets SC relief in 'scorpion' remark against Modi

Rediff.com1 Aug 2025

The Supreme Court has extended the stay on trial court proceedings against Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in a defamation case filed over his 'scorpion on Shivling' remark. The court questioned the complainant's sensitivity and adjourned the matter for further hearing.

Act cautiously: China to India over Dalai Lama's incarnation

Act cautiously: China to India over Dalai Lama's incarnation

Rediff.com4 Jul 2025

China has objected to Indian Minister Kiren Rijiju's remarks on the Dalai Lama's reincarnation, urging India to be cautious on Tibet-related issues to avoid impacting bilateral relations. China insists any future Dalai Lama must receive its approval.

'We Decided To Give Our Employees What Matters Most -- Their Own Time To Celebrate Life'

'We Decided To Give Our Employees What Matters Most -- Their Own Time To Celebrate Life'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2025

'For us, it's not always about chasing revenue. It's about sustaining happiness and energy, because that's what drives long-term growth.'

Is killing Hindu leaders a terrorist act asks HC, grants bail to pro-ISIS man

Is killing Hindu leaders a terrorist act asks HC, grants bail to pro-ISIS man

Rediff.com14 Dec 2023

A division bench of Justices SS Sundar and Sunder Mohan observed while hearing the bail plea of an alleged Islamic State of Iraq and Syria sympathiser, and also set him on liberty with a string of conditions, recently.

'RSS' Dharma Is 'Samanwaya'

'RSS' Dharma Is 'Samanwaya'

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

'...to build a consensus, not conflict or struggle.'

Swamiji, Sikh... Modi's disguise during Emergency years

Swamiji, Sikh... Modi's disguise during Emergency years

Rediff.com25 Jun 2025

BlueKraft has published The Emergency Diaries -- Years that Forged a Leader to chronicle Modi's role in the underground campaign during that period, after speaking to a number of people associated with him at that time.

India reiterates non-interference in Dalai Lama succession plan

India reiterates non-interference in Dalai Lama succession plan

Rediff.com4 Jul 2025

India has stated its neutral stance on religious matters following the Dalai Lama's announcement of his succession plan, which China has rejected. The statement comes as the Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, with China urging India to exercise caution on Tibet-related issues.

Next Dalai Lama to be decided by...: India snubs China

Next Dalai Lama to be decided by...: India snubs China

Rediff.com3 Jul 2025

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju asserts that the decision on the Incarnation of the Dalai Lama will be taken by the established institution and the leader of Tibetan Buddhist himself, rebuffing China's claim to approve the successor.

Union min Sukanta Majumdar booked for 'throwing slipper at Sikh man'

Union min Sukanta Majumdar booked for 'throwing slipper at Sikh man'

Rediff.com15 Jun 2025

Bharatiya Janata Party dismissed the allegation and said it was only a paper cutting used in a protest.

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

A loud sound was heard at around 1 am outside Kalia's residence near Shastri Market in Jalandhar, police said, adding that no one was hurt in the incident.

Manipur BJP leader's house torched for supporting Waqf Act

Manipur BJP leader's house torched for supporting Waqf Act

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

The house of the BJP Minority Morcha's Manipur president, Asker Ali, was set on fire by a mob allegedly for supporting the Waqf Amendment Act. The incident happened at Lilong in Thoubal district on Sunday night. Ali had expressed his support for the Act on social media on Saturday. An irate mob gathered outside his residence around 9 pm, vandalised it and later set it on fire. Following the incident, Ali posted a video on social media, apologising for his earlier statement. He also expressed opposition to the Act.

Nuns' arrest misunderstanding, bail soon: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Nuns' arrest misunderstanding, bail soon: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Rediff.com1 Aug 2025

BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated that the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh was due to a 'misunderstanding' and that they will be released on bail soon. He met with Archbishop of Trichur Andrews Thazhath to brief him that the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister have assured the nuns would be released on bail.

Hindu leader's arrest: Bangladesh detains 30 in lawyer's killing

Hindu leader's arrest: Bangladesh detains 30 in lawyer's killing

Rediff.com27 Nov 2024

At least 30 suspects have been detained in Bangladesh's Chattogram city for their alleged involvement in the killing of a lawyer and attacking security personnel following the arrest of a prominent Hindu community leader. The violence erupted after Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was denied bail and sent to jail in a sedition case. The lawyer, Assistant public prosecutor Saiful Islam, was killed during clashes between security personnel and Das' followers. The interim government has condemned the violence, urging people to remain calm and has ordered an investigation into the killing and appropriate legal measures.

Gujarat's UCC panel headed by SC ex-judge, report in 45 days

Gujarat's UCC panel headed by SC ex-judge, report in 45 days

Rediff.com4 Feb 2025

The BJP government in Gujarat has formed a five-member committee, headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, to assess the need for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state and to draft a bill for the same. The committee will submit its report within 45 days. The decision has sparked debate with the Opposition claiming it is an attempt to divert attention from pressing issues ahead of the upcoming local body polls, while the government insists the UCC will protect the rights of tribal communities. The committee will consult with religious leaders, including those from the Muslim community.

Should The Bengal Files Have Been Made?

Should The Bengal Files Have Been Made?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2025

Some of the issues Vivek Agnihotri raises in The Bengal Files are valid, but today, the need of the hour is to find ways of negotiating peace not pouring oil over troubled waters, asserts Deepa Gahlot.

China angry as Modi greets Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday

China angry as Modi greets Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday

Rediff.com7 Jul 2025

China has protested to India over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings to the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday and the attendance of Indian officials at the celebrations, stressing New Delhi should appreciate Beijing's sensitivities on Tibet-related issues.

US govt body wants India named as 'country of concern'

US govt body wants India named as 'country of concern'

Rediff.com3 Oct 2024

A US federal government commission has flagged the alleged worsening of religious freedom in India and called for it to be designated as a "Country of Particular Concern".

How Modi Changed Indian Politics

How Modi Changed Indian Politics

Rediff.com17 Sep 2025

In the last 11 years, India and the world witnessed what he stood for, what he promised and did not deliver, and what he actually stood for and practised without fearing how history would judge him. Modi's tenure has been punctuated with headline-grabbing decisions, symbolic gestures, and stage-managed moments that continue to define his leadership and India's politics, points out Ramesh Menon.

Ensure safety of Hindus: India tells B'desh on arrest of Hindu priest

Ensure safety of Hindus: India tells B'desh on arrest of Hindu priest

Rediff.com26 Nov 2024

Bangladesh police on Monday arrested Das, the leader of the Hindu group, Sammilita Sanatani Jote, from the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport area in Dhaka.

Uniform unites, not religion, says HC; upholds Army officer's sacking

Uniform unites, not religion, says HC; upholds Army officer's sacking

Rediff.com1 Jun 2025

A bench of Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur rejected the petition by the Indian Army Lieutenant, who served as a 'Troop Leader' of a squadron, against the termination order passed on March 3, 2021, that dismissed him from the Indian Army without pension and gratuity.

Sufi scholar leads last-ditch efforts to save Nimisha Priya

Sufi scholar leads last-ditch efforts to save Nimisha Priya

Rediff.com15 Jul 2025

Last-minute efforts are underway to halt the scheduled execution of an Indian nurse in Yemen, with a Sufi scholar leading negotiations with the victim's family.

Maha to act on forced conversions, SC quota misuse: Fadnavis

Maha to act on forced conversions, SC quota misuse: Fadnavis

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the state government's intention to introduce strong provisions to deal with religious conversions done using force or cheating. A panel has submitted recommendations, and the government will study and implement necessary changes. The move comes amid claims of misuse of religious freedom and concerns about conversions through coercion and deceit.