News for 'state elections'

Far-Right UK Party Leader's Anti-Immigration Stance Causes Uproar

Far-Right UK Party Leader's Anti-Immigration Stance Causes Uproar

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Rupert Lowe, leader of the far-right Restore Britain party in the UK, has sparked controversy with anti-immigration posts targeting Indian and Pakistani immigrants, leading to a social media backlash and raising concerns ahead of a crucial by-election.

NIA arrests TMC ex-MLA, key suspect in Bhangar blast case

NIA arrests TMC ex-MLA, key suspect in Bhangar blast case

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The National Investigation Agency on Friday night arrested former Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla, the prime suspect in the Bhangar blast case, from West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, hours after declaring him as 'absconding'.

After assembly revolt, TMC stares at rebellion in Parliament

After assembly revolt, TMC stares at rebellion in Parliament

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Veteran Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Roy has suggested that the rebellion within the Trinamool Congress (TMC)'s legislative wing could extend to its Members of Parliament, following an unprecedented revolt by MLAs and the party's recent electoral defeat in West Bengal.

Vijay Must Demonstrate His Government Doesn't Engage In Theft

Vijay Must Demonstrate His Government Doesn't Engage In Theft

Rediff.com27 May 2026

If TVK MLAs and ministers are perceived as clean, or demonstrably cleaner than their predecessors, the credibility dividend will be enormous. The voter will feel rewarded, points out Ramesh Menon.

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

Rediff.com2 days ago

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has suspended Russia's membership for up to three years due to its failure to comply with a ruling to stop holding events in Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories. This decision follows Russia's continued organisation of chess events in annexed regions, violating a Court of Arbitration for Sport order.

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Refusal

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Refusal

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared that the TMC will proceed with its planned sit-in protest against alleged attacks on party leaders and workers, as well as the Railways' hawker eviction drive, despite the police denying permission for the event.

INDIA bloc may meet next month to chalk out anti-BJP strategy: Mamata

INDIA bloc may meet next month to chalk out anti-BJP strategy: Mamata

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday said members of the INDIA bloc were likely to meet in the first week of June to discuss a joint strategy, while asserting that the opposition camp was prepared for a prolonged political battle.

12 Injured In Haryana Village Clashes After Bakrid Prayers

12 Injured In Haryana Village Clashes After Bakrid Prayers

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Clashes between rival groups in two villages in Haryana's Nuh district after Bakrid prayers have left at least 12 people injured, police said.

'Congress Made A Mistake In Going With DMK'

'Congress Made A Mistake In Going With DMK'

Rediff.com21 May 2026

'If Congress had aligned with the TVK before the election, we would have won almost a two-thirds majority.'

Cong councillor who refused to sing Vande Mataram denied bail

Cong councillor who refused to sing Vande Mataram denied bail

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

An Indore court rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Congress councilor Fauzia Sheikh Alim, who is accused of refusing to sing 'Vande Mataram' during a municipal corporation meeting, citing a prima facie case under BNS section 196(1).

Shivakumar sworn in as Karnataka CM, Siddaramaiah's son joins cabinet

Shivakumar sworn in as Karnataka CM, Siddaramaiah's son joins cabinet

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

D K Shivakumar has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administering the oath of office and secrecy. The ceremony also saw 13 other ministers, including a Deputy CM, taking their oaths, attended by prominent Congress leaders and religious figures.

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

A Sri Lankan court has imposed an overseas travel ban on former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and two former military officers in connection with ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. The ban was issued after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) raised concerns that their flight could hamper the probe into the coordinated suicide bombings that killed 270 people. The current government reopened the investigation in late 2024, alleging political influence led to an earlier cover-up.

Assam Elections: Can AGP Retain Its Identity In Assam's Changing Politics?

Assam Elections: Can AGP Retain Its Identity In Assam's Changing Politics?

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

In its list of 26 candidates for Thursday's assembly elections, 13 are from the Bengali-speaking Muslim community -- a demographic that was at the centre of the original Assam agitation.

Annamalai meets Amit Shah amid party exit rumours

Annamalai meets Amit Shah amid party exit rumours

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah amid speculation about his departure from the party and potential launch of a new political outfit.

As US helicopter crashes near Hormuz, Trump predicts 'total victory' over Iran

As US helicopter crashes near Hormuz, Trump predicts 'total victory' over Iran

Rediff.com5 days ago

A US military Apache attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, with its crew successfully rescued, as US President Donald Trump confidently declared an imminent 'total victory' over Iran within two weeks and a new nuclear deal, despite ongoing regional volatility and a recent de-escalation between Iran and Israel.

'Ideologically, D K Shivakumar Is Rather RSS-ish'

'Ideologically, D K Shivakumar Is Rather RSS-ish'

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

'Shivakumar's relationship with the BJP and the RSS is not adversarial in the way Siddaramaiah's has been.' 'Siddaramaiah has publicly attacked the RSS on record; Shivakumar has made no such statement at any point.' 'He vociferously defended the Karnataka government's celebration of Ram temple consecration with RSS-ish arguments.'

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Gandhis have served both the Congress and India. But it has been 12 years since the 2014 verdict, and the returns have been diminishing. It is time for them to step aside, let the party find its own footing, and allow someone else to make the hard calls. That is what the Congress needs. And frankly, it is what India needs too, points out Harishchandra.

Puri Jagannath Temple Secures Trademark Protection

Puri Jagannath Temple Secures Trademark Protection

Rediff.com2 days ago

This marks a significant step towards legally safeguarding the cultural and spiritual identity of one of Hinduism's most revered pilgrimage centres.

'INDIA Alliance Is Dead'

'INDIA Alliance Is Dead'

Rediff.com28 May 2026

'Congress needs a positive agenda rather than primarily picking up on two business houses.'

Why TMC Leader Santanu Sen Resigned As Party Spokesperson

Why TMC Leader Santanu Sen Resigned As Party Spokesperson

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Former Rajya Sabha MP and TMC leader Santanu Sen resigned as the party's national spokesperson, citing the R G Kar rape and murder case controversy and the recent election defeat as reasons for his decision. His resignation highlights the internal dissent and organisational challenges facing the TMC.

After assembly revolt, TMC faces rebellion in Parliament

After assembly revolt, TMC faces rebellion in Parliament

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Barely days after losing control of its legislature party in the West Bengal assembly, the Trinamool Congress is now staring at an even bigger political nightmare -- the possibility of the rebellion spreading to its parliamentary ranks.

Court Grants Bail To Bangla Pokkho Founder In Misinformation Case

Court Grants Bail To Bangla Pokkho Founder In Misinformation Case

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A court in Kolkata granted bail to Bangla Pokkho's founder, Garga Chatterjee, who was arrested for allegedly spreading misinformation through social media posts during the West Bengal Assembly elections.

TN, WB assembly elections: Stalin, Rajini, Suvendu vote

TN, WB assembly elections: Stalin, Rajini, Suvendu vote

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Take a look at the famous faces who exercised their democratic right.

Return to Uddhav's Sena if you...: Raut to Shinde camp leaders

Return to Uddhav's Sena if you...: Raut to Shinde camp leaders

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) has invited leaders who sided with Eknath Shinde to return to the party led by Uddhav Thackeray, while also stating that some individuals will not be welcomed back.

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Rediff.com29 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul defended the detailed application form for the 'Annapurna Yojana', stating the government aims to ensure benefits reach only Indian citizens, amidst criticism over excessive documentation.

Meghalaya Curfew Extended Following Election Violence

Meghalaya Curfew Extended Following Election Violence

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Curfew has been extended in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district until Sunday morning, with a brief relaxation period on Saturday for residents to obtain essential supplies. The curfew follows violence related to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections, which have now been postponed.

TMC's Banerjee Alleges BJP Plot to Alter Bengal's Demography Ahead of Elections

TMC's Banerjee Alleges BJP Plot to Alter Bengal's Demography Ahead of Elections

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee accuses the BJP of attempting to alter West Bengal's demography by importing voters from other states ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, alleging a conspiracy to undermine the democratic rights of local residents.

BJP Candidates Booked For Alleged Voter Intimidation In Punjab

BJP Candidates Booked For Alleged Voter Intimidation In Punjab

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Two BJP candidates and three others have been booked for allegedly distributing liquor to influence voters and attacking those who objected during the Garhshankar Municipal Council elections in Punjab.

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Kerala's 2026 assembly election will see a three-cornered contest where religion and communalism have emerged as central themes for the first time, challenging the state's long-celebrated secular fabric.

Prashant Kishor moves to ashram on outskirts of Patna, to live there till...

Prashant Kishor moves to ashram on outskirts of Patna, to live there till...

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor has moved to an ashram on the outskirts of Patna to continue his political activities ahead of the next assembly elections. He criticised Nitish Kumar and urged voters to prioritise their own interests.

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Thirty-five BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers as part of an expansion of the Suvendu Adhikari-led cabinet in West Bengal. The oath-taking ceremony took place weeks after Adhikari was sworn in as chief minister.

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam legislators who were part of the rebel group led by C Ve Shanmugam and SP Velumani, met Tamil Nadu assembly Speaker JC D Prabhakar on Monday and tendered their resignation.

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

Rediff.com4 days ago

A CID team visited the Trinamool Congress (TMC)'s central office in Kolkata as part of an investigation into alleged forged signatures of MLAs. The controversy, which involves a proposal for the Leader of Opposition, has triggered an unprecedented split within the party, with a rebel faction electing its own leader. TMC leaders prevented the CID from entering the premises, citing the absence of national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

Putin says Russia ready for Ukraine peace deal based on Trump plan

Putin says Russia ready for Ukraine peace deal based on Trump plan

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

President Vladimir Putin has declared Russia's willingness to finalise a peace agreement with Ukraine based on US President Donald Trump's Anchorage proposals, provided Kyiv accepts necessary compromises.

Revanth unveils NTR statue in outreach to TDP sympathisers

Revanth unveils NTR statue in outreach to TDP sympathisers

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy unveiled a statue of TDP founder N T Rama Rao in Hyderabad, aiming to appeal to TDP supporters ahead of upcoming civic polls. The move is seen as an attempt by the Congress to gain ground in areas with a significant Andhra Pradesh-native voter base.

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared that the TMC will proceed with its planned sit-in protest against alleged attacks on party leaders and workers, as well as the Railways' hawker eviction drive, despite the police denying permission for the event.

Central forces working to help BJP in Bengal polls: Mamata

Central forces working to help BJP in Bengal polls: Mamata

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of working in favour of the BJP during the ongoing assembly elections, alleging intimidation and unfair practices.

Key Accused In Rath Murder Case Arrested By CBI

Key Accused In Rath Murder Case Arrested By CBI

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Gyanendra Pratap Singh alias Monu, a history-sheeter from Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the murder of Chandranath Rath, a former associate of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Singh, who faces multiple criminal cases, was taken into custody from Mau jail and transported to Kolkata for further investigation.

Kerala Government Likely To Order CBI Probe Into ADM Death

Kerala Government Likely To Order CBI Probe Into ADM Death

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The Kerala government is likely to hand over the investigation into the death of ADM Naveen Babu to the CBI, following concerns raised by his family regarding the police investigation. The decision comes after a political controversy in Kerala in 2024 surrounding the case, in which former Kannur District Panchayat President P P Divya is the sole accused.

Bengal police ramp up security ahead of assembly elections

Bengal police ramp up security ahead of assembly elections

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Senior police officials in West Bengal are visiting police stations to ensure free and fair polling for the upcoming Assembly elections, focusing on maintaining law and order and preventing electoral malpractice.