News for 'statehood'

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Ladakh groups to launch massive stir for statehood in Kargil on Sep 20

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) announced a major protest rally in Kargil on September 20, demanding justice for victims of police firing in Leh last year and protesting the central government's perceived lack of seriousness in talks regarding Ladakh's demands. The KDA, along with the Leh Apex Body (LAB), rejected the compensation offered by the Lieutenant Governor as inadequate and called for the withdrawal of all cases against arrested protesters. They criticised the recent talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs as "unproductive" and reiterated their demands for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh.

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a fabricated social media post attributed to former US President Donald Trump, captioned 'If only!', to highlight his demand for the restoration of J&K's statehood, drawing significant criticism online.

NC, BJP take out protests against each other in Srinagar

NC, BJP take out protests against each other in Srinagar

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

The National Conference and BJP held significant protests in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing each other of failing to deliver on promises. The NC demanded the restoration of statehood, while the BJP criticised the NC government's performance on issues like jobs and corruption, marking the first major political unrest since Article 370's abrogation.

Parl buried Art 370, no one can revive it: BJP hits out at Kashmir cleric

Parl buried Art 370, no one can revive it: BJP hits out at Kashmir cleric

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit has strongly criticised Mirwaiz Umar Farooq for advocating the restoration of Article 370, asserting that the constitutional provision has been permanently abrogated and such calls aim to disrupt peace. The party emphasised that Kashmir has moved beyond past conflicts and is focused on development, while reiterating that statehood will be restored at an appropriate time, distinct from Article 370.

PoK people would've joined India before 2019: Omar on Independence Day

PoK people would've joined India before 2019: Omar on Independence Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has renewed his call for the restoration of special status and statehood to the region, asserting that the decision to accede to India 80 years ago was correct. He highlighted the importance of upholding India's federal structure and suggested that if Article 370 hadn't been revoked, PoK residents might be seeking reunification. Abdullah also criticised centralised governance models, arguing they erode state autonomy.

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to convene a meeting of the sub-committee for political dialogue with representatives of agitating Ladakh groups on May 22, according to Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart, Pema Khandu, to order an inquiry into a recent firing incident along the inter-state border that injured 12 people from Assam. The incident occurred amidst ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing boundary disputes between the two northeastern states, with Sarma emphasising the need for cooperation despite the setback.

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Assam-Arunachal border row turns violent, 12 injured

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

At least 12 people from Assam were injured in alleged firing by miscreants from Arunachal Pradesh along the interstate border in Dhemaji district on Monday over encroachment of land, the police said.

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A fresh clash erupted between protesters from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in Dhemaji district, leading to police firing in the air, as an indefinite economic blockade against Arunachal Pradesh entered its second day over land encroachment issues and an earlier firing incident.

12 dead, several missing as flash floods, landslides hit Poonch, Rajouri

12 dead, several missing as flash floods, landslides hit Poonch, Rajouri

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Incessant overnight rainfall has triggered severe flash floods and landslides in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, resulting in at least eight fatalities and six people missing, prompting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to cut short his Delhi visit to personally monitor the situation.

Sonam Wangchuk: NSA Release 'Win-Win', Signals Fresh Talks On Ladakh Statehood

Sonam Wangchuk: NSA Release 'Win-Win', Signals Fresh Talks On Ladakh Statehood

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Sonam Wangchuk called his release a 'win-win', saying the Centre has opened the door for meaningful dialogue with Ladakh.

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a significant policy shift, declaring that Israel's robust economy no longer requires American financial assistance. He also reiterated strong opposition to Palestinian statehood, affirmed an aggressive national defence strategy, warned of pre-emptive strikes against Iran, and confirmed the continued military presence in southern Lebanon.

BJP trying to topple J-K govt, MLAs offered Rs 20-30cr: Omar

BJP trying to topple J-K govt, MLAs offered Rs 20-30cr: Omar

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accused the BJP of attempting to destabilise his government by trying to split the National Conference. He alleged that the BJP is using financial incentives and promises of ministerial berths and statehood to lure his MLAs, with one MLA reportedly offered up to Rs 30 crore. Abdullah asserted that his party's legislators would not compromise their integrity.

BJP slaps Rs 100 cr defamation notice on Omar Abdullah

BJP slaps Rs 100 cr defamation notice on Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP has served a legal notice to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, demanding a retraction and public apology for his allegations that the BJP attempted to bribe National Conference legislators to destabilise his government. The BJP has called the claims "false, baseless and defamatory" and warned of civil and criminal proceedings, including a Rs 100 crore defamation suit, if their demands are not met within seven days.

Ladakh's Gen Z Demands Statehood

Ladakh's Gen Z Demands Statehood

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

Massive protests erupted in Leh, Ladakh on September 24, 2025, demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. Demonstrators set fire to the BJP office while police deployed personnel to control the escalating situation across the region.

PIX: Modi plays football with children in Sikkim

PIX: Modi plays football with children in Sikkim

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Sikkim, engaged in a football session with local children in Gangtok, describing the experience as 'energising'. He also attended the closing ceremony of 50 years of Sikkim's statehood and launched projects worth Rs 4,000 crore.

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Omar Abdullah has so far laboured hard to make best of a bad bargain. Even so, the ground reality is anything but reassuring. The Opposition parties, including notably the PDP, appear to be gaining ground, though more by default. Public patience with Omar's government has nearly run out, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

'I may die, but won't step back': Sonam Wangchuk continues fast at Jantar Mantar

'I may die, but won't step back': Sonam Wangchuk continues fast at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

"I was thinking I would not be required to sit on a protest. I am sad I have to sit on a fast again. I am not doing it happily; it is not easy either. I may even die, but even if I die, I will not step back," said Sonam Wangchuk, climate activist and educator, regarding his indefinite fast for Ladakh's constitutional safeguards.

SC gives Centre 4 weeks to reply on J-K statehood

SC gives Centre 4 weeks to reply on J-K statehood

Rediff.com10 Oct 2025

The Supreme Court has given the Centre four weeks to respond to pleas seeking the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Wangchuk begins hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, khap leaders join CJP protest

Wangchuk begins hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, khap leaders join CJP protest

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Before sitting on the fast, Wangchuk, along with CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, visited Rajghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Sonia Gandhi criticised PM Modi's Israel visit, calling it a "bewildering strategic decision" amid the regional conflict.

Activists demand Wangchuk's release, back Ladakh's statehood

Activists demand Wangchuk's release, back Ladakh's statehood

Rediff.com29 Sep 2025

Activists from Himalayan states condemn the arrest of Sonam Wangchuk, demanding his release and supporting the call for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. They also warn of a larger crisis unfolding across the Himalayan region due to climate change and poor governance.

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has requested direct talks with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit, deeming the scheduled sub-committee meeting insufficient for resolving Ladakh's long-standing issues.

SC to hear J-K statehood plea on August 8

SC to hear J-K statehood plea on August 8

Rediff.com5 Aug 2025

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a plea on August 8 seeking directions to the Centre for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The plea highlights concerns about the delay and its impact on democratic rights and development.

Can't ignore Pahalgam: SC seeks Centre's reply on J-K statehood

Can't ignore Pahalgam: SC seeks Centre's reply on J-K statehood

Rediff.com15 Aug 2025

The SC has sought a response from the Centre on a plea seeking the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

SC to hear plea for restoration of statehood to J-K on Thursday

SC to hear plea for restoration of statehood to J-K on Thursday

Rediff.com13 Aug 2025

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a plea for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The plea highlights the delay in restoration and its impact on democratic rights and development.

Sonam Wangchuk seeks 'meaningful dialogue' with Centre

Sonam Wangchuk seeks 'meaningful dialogue' with Centre

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, recently released from detention, calls for constructive dialogue between the government and the people of Ladakh, viewing his release as a positive step towards building trust.

4 killed, 80 hurt in Ladakh statehood protests; Wangchuk calls off fast

4 killed, 80 hurt in Ladakh statehood protests; Wangchuk calls off fast

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk called off his hunger strike as protests for Ladakh statehood and Sixth Schedule extension turned violent. The BJP office was set on fire, vehicles were torched, and clashes erupted, leading to the imposition of prohibitory orders.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

Gorkha Issue To Be Resolved In Six Months: Shah

Gorkha Issue To Be Resolved In Six Months: Shah

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged to resolve the long-standing Gorkha issue within six months if the BJP wins the West Bengal elections. He criticised previous governments for failing to address the aspirations of the Gorkha people and promised a solution acceptable to them.

KCR's daughter Kavitha launches new political party, calls father 'soulless'

KCR's daughter Kavitha launches new political party, calls father 'soulless'

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

K Kavitha, daughter of former Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao, has launched a new political party, Telangana Rashtra Sena (TRS), after her suspension from the BRS, marking a new chapter in Telangana politics.

Sonam Wangchuk released after govt revokes detention

Sonam Wangchuk released after govt revokes detention

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Indian government has revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was held under the National Security Act following protests in Ladakh.

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised to resolve the decades-old Gorkha issue within six months if the BJP comes to power in West Bengal, addressing a rally in Kurseong, Darjeeling district.

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Rediff.com28 May 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that the conversation regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir has not been stalled. He claims the issue was raised at the recent NITI Aayog governing council meeting, and the formal speech distributed at the meeting includes a mention of the return of statehood. Abdullah also addressed concerns about the impact of the Pahalgam terror attack on tourism, emphasizing the importance of local Kashmiris visiting tourist spots first to revive the industry and ensure a sense of security.

Palestinian statehood will reward Hamas: Trump at UNGA

Palestinian statehood will reward Hamas: Trump at UNGA

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

His remarks came in response to several European nations announcing their decision to recognise a Palestinian state during a summit at the UNGA on Monday. While the move was largely symbolic, it added to Israel's diplomatic isolation. Washington, however, has made clear it does not support the step.

SC questions delay as Centre says Wangchuk getting 'best treatment'

SC questions delay as Centre says Wangchuk getting 'best treatment'

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court is reviewing the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act, considering his health condition and allegations of inciting unrest in Ladakh.

'Thumbnails, no videos': Wangchuk's wife challenges detention proof in SC

'Thumbnails, no videos': Wangchuk's wife challenges detention proof in SC

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court is reviewing the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk after his wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, alleged that key video evidence used to justify his detention was not properly presented to him.

Wangchuk denies 'Arab Spring' call in SC; says police twisted words

Wangchuk denies 'Arab Spring' call in SC; says police twisted words

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, detained under the National Security Act, denied allegations in the Supreme Court that he incited sedition. His lawyer argued that the police selectively used video evidence to mislead authorities.

Hopes fading for J-K's statehoood: Omar Abdullah

Hopes fading for J-K's statehoood: Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com27 Oct 2025

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expresses dwindling hope for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, citing delays and governance challenges in the Union Territory setup.

LG clears Omar cabinet's resolution seeking to restore J-K statehood

LG clears Omar cabinet's resolution seeking to restore J-K statehood

Rediff.com19 Oct 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has cleared a resolution passed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led cabinet urging the Centre to restore the statehood to the Union territory, officials said on Saturday.