News for 'union ministers'

CJP's Dipke demands Rs 1cr for paper leak-linked suicides

CJP's Dipke demands Rs 1cr for paper leak-linked suicides

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide Rs 1 crore compensation to families of students who allegedly died by suicide amid examination controversies, while also demanding the sacking of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

'Won't leave Jantar Mantar until...': Cockroach Party founder

'Won't leave Jantar Mantar until...': Cockroach Party founder

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by Abhijit Dipke, is staging a protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities and repeated paper leaks. Dipke has stated he will not leave until their demands are met and has requested Delhi Police to extend permission for the ongoing demonstration.

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Vijay's government to hold social justice survey, move court for financial devolution

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Governor RV Arlekar announced that the TVK regime, led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, will take steps to ensure fair financial devolution from the Centre, including pursuing the matter in the Supreme Court. The government also plans to conduct a 'Social Justice Survey' and address the state's severe financial deterioration.

Kakoli claims 22 Trinamool LS MPs now in rebel camp; to meet Speaker on Monday

Kakoli claims 22 Trinamool LS MPs now in rebel camp; to meet Speaker on Monday

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Rebel Trinamool Congress MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar on Sunday said two more parliamentarians were set to join the dissident group, which would take its strength in the Lok Sabha to 22.

Rebel MPs still in touch, scared of voters' wrath, says Raut

Rebel MPs still in touch, scared of voters' wrath, says Raut

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has claimed that some dissident MPs are in contact with the party due to fear of public anger in their constituencies, with talks ongoing with at least two. He also criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan, who had made remarks about the Shiv Sena's legitimacy and the involvement of central investigative agencies. Raut asserted that there is only one Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray.

Pope Francis likely to visit India after 2025: Union minister

Pope Francis likely to visit India after 2025: Union minister

Rediff.com7 Dec 2024

Union Minister George Kurian on Saturday said the much-awaited visit of Pope Francis to India is likely to happen after 2025, which has been announced as the 'Jubilee Year' by the Catholic Church.

Raut alleges Rs 15-cr offer to poach Maha MPs amid Sena-UBT split buzz

Raut alleges Rs 15-cr offer to poach Maha MPs amid Sena-UBT split buzz

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Speculation is rife about a potential rebellion among MPs of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), with ruling Sena leader Pratap Sarnaik hinting at welcoming dissidents. Despite a Sena (UBT) MP meeting a rival minister and several skipping a party meeting, senior leaders Sanjay Raut and Anil Desai have dismissed the defection rumours, asserting the unity of their parliamentarians.

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged 22 lakh students appearing for the NEET re-exam to do so "fearlessly and free of anxiety," while the National Testing Agency (NTA) reminded candidates to download fresh admit cards and adhere to entry guidelines.

Maha minister Nitesh Rane gets one-month jail in engineer mud attack case

Maha minister Nitesh Rane gets one-month jail in engineer mud attack case

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A court in Sindhudurg convicted Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane in a 2019 case of pouring mud on an NHAI engineer, sentencing him to one-month imprisonment. The court suspended the sentence, allowing Rane time to appeal.

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Cabinet, citing a loss of confidence in Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, potentially triggering a Labour leadership contest.

Marathi must for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers: Maha minister

Marathi must for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers: Maha minister

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has mandated that all commercial passenger vehicle drivers in the state must possess a working knowledge of Marathi, warning of strict action against those who refuse to comply.

12 iconic Indian landmarks to host International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations

12 iconic Indian landmarks to host International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

India will celebrate International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 at 12 iconic landmarks across the country, including the Red Fort, Hampi, and Konark Sun Temple, with the main event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kolkata.

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Despite BEST employees calling off their indefinite strike, Mumbai's bus services remained significantly below normal on Monday morning, with only 57% of the scheduled fleet operational. Commuters experienced long waits, leading many to seek alternative transport. The strike ended after an agreement with Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, which included interim pay hikes and commitments for future improvements and clearing dues.

Punjab AAP Accuses BJP Leader Bittu Of Hooliganism

Punjab AAP Accuses BJP Leader Bittu Of Hooliganism

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Punjab's AAP president, Aman Arora, has criticised Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu for alleged misconduct and objectionable behaviour towards police personnel in Dhuri, while Bittu accuses the AAP government of misusing the police to target BJP workers.

'People from RSS' behind attack on me: Cockroach Party founder

'People from RSS' behind attack on me: Cockroach Party founder

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that "some people from RSS" were behind an attack on him in Jaipur, claiming it was an attempt to divert attention from the NEET (UG) paper leak issue. Dipke, who is leading a protest in Nagpur demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, vowed to continue his peaceful agitation despite such incidents.

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari outlined his government's priorities, focusing on strengthening the state's economy, attracting investment to create jobs, and improving law and order. He criticised the previous administration for alleged corruption and appeasement politics, while highlighting initial successes in border management and reducing criminal activities.

Union minister Meghwal apologises after Meerabai remarks spark row

Union minister Meghwal apologises after Meerabai remarks spark row

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has apologized for his remarks about revered poet-saint Meerabai, which drew significant backlash on social media. Meghwal's comments, made during a recent program in Sikar, sparked criticism, particularly from the Rajput community, which demanded an apology from him. He said he has immense respect for Meerabai and "expresses regret and asks for forgiveness" if his words had hurt anybody. The minister had said that Meerabai was troubled not by her husband but by her brother-in-law, who wanted to marry her after her husband's death.

'US Thought They Could Pressurise India'

'US Thought They Could Pressurise India'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'They talked bad about our leaders. They said India was a dead economy. They were not sensitive to the Indian psyche.'

GST @ 10: Focus Shifts To AI-Led Compliance, Faster Refunds, Simpler Tax

GST @ 10: Focus Shifts To AI-Led Compliance, Faster Refunds, Simpler Tax

Rediff.com2 days ago

As India marks a decade of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the focus is shifting towards enhancing efficiency through artificial intelligence, data sharing, and process simplification. The reform, which unified India's indirect tax system, has significantly broadened the tax base and boosted revenues, with future plans including a streamlined two-tier rate structure and continued technological integration to reduce compliance costs and combat evasion.

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Cong chief Kharge, BJP leader among 4 candidates elected to RS from K'taka

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three Congress candidates, including All India Congress Committee president Mallikarjun Kharge, and one Bharatiya Janata Party nominee were declared elected "unanimously" to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka on Thursday, election officials said.

Why Did Sergio Gor Meet Amitbhai?

Why Did Sergio Gor Meet Amitbhai?

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Thursday met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss enhancing cooperation on combating terrorism and bringing criminals to justice in both countries.

Four Injured In Karimnagar Jewellery Store Robbery

Four Injured In Karimnagar Jewellery Store Robbery

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Four employees of a jewellery showroom in Karimnagar, Telangana, were injured after unidentified men opened fire during a robbery. The value of the stolen gold ornaments is being ascertained, and police are investigating the incident.

Nine ministers sworn in along with Vijay in Tamil Nadu

Nine ministers sworn in along with Vijay in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a notable victory in its debut election, ending the dominance of DMK and AIADMK.

Cockroach party protests move to Lucknow; Amritsar, Bengaluru next

Cockroach party protests move to Lucknow; Amritsar, Bengaluru next

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Students and government job aspirants in Lucknow protested alleged examination irregularities, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, as part of a nationwide campaign by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke slapped during Jaipur protest

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke slapped during Jaipur protest

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, was allegedly slapped during a protest in Jaipur concerning the NEET paper leak and unemployment. Two youths have been detained following the incident, which saw protesters demanding action on youth issues and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

CJP to release education manifesto as part of Pune protest, Wangchuk to join

CJP to release education manifesto as part of Pune protest, Wangchuk to join

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has launched a nationwide protest from Pune, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged exam irregularities and delays. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is also participating in the peaceful demonstration.

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

Rediff.com4 days ago

Stepping up attack against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday announced the launch of a nationwide campaign to demand his resignation and exhorted students, farmers and civil society groups to join him at Jantar Mantar on June 28.

Cabinet passes resolution lauding Modi for 4,399-days record

Cabinet passes resolution lauding Modi for 4,399-days record

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The Union Cabinet applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming India's longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister, surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru's record. Modi first took office in 2014, was re-elected in 2019, and began his third consecutive term in June 2024.

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking arranged special bus services for students appearing in the NEET re-examination in Mumbai, deploying 60 buses on 24 routes for approximately 180 trips, despite an ongoing strike by its employees that has paralysed public transport.

'There can be just one Shiv Sena': Uddhav amid rebellion

'There can be just one Shiv Sena': Uddhav amid rebellion

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Uddhav Thackeray, chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), has strongly refuted Union Home Minister Amit Shah's assertion that Eknath Shinde leads the sole Shiv Sena. Addressing party workers in Bhandup, Thackeray declared his faction as the original Shiv Sena, criticising the BJP for allegedly trying to dismantle his party. His remarks come amidst a rebellion by six Sena (UBT) MPs, further intensifying the political struggle for the party's legacy.

9 TVK ministers to be sworn in along with Vijay

9 TVK ministers to be sworn in along with Vijay

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a majority in the Assembly with coalition support. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.

Upper castes should handle tribal affairs, says Union minister, courts row

Upper castes should handle tribal affairs, says Union minister, courts row

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi has stirred controversy by suggesting that members of the "upper castes" should handle the tribal affairs portfolio. Gopi, an actor-turned-politician, argued that true progress in tribal welfare would only be achieved under the leadership of individuals from "upper castes." His comments have been met with widespread criticism, including from CPI state secretary Benoy Viswam and prominent tribal leader C K Janu.

BEST bus strike: Mumbaikars continue to struggle for 2nd day

BEST bus strike: Mumbaikars continue to struggle for 2nd day

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

BEST employees continued their strike in Mumbai for a second day, causing significant disruption to public transport despite appeals from the Maharashtra Transport Minister and the invocation of MESMA. Commuters were forced to rely on alternative, overcrowded transport options, while the striking unions maintained their demands for budget merger, improved pay, and absorption of contractual workers.

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

FMSCI President Arindam Ghosh announced plans to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2030, and a round of the World Rally Championship and MotoGP by 2028, following a meeting with the Sports Ministry. The federation is focused on developing Indian drivers and promoting motorsports in the country.

BJP's 'Operation Lotus' has failed: TMC's Kirti Azad

BJP's 'Operation Lotus' has failed: TMC's Kirti Azad

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad has accused the BJP of orchestrating 'Operation Lotus' to induce defections from the Mamata Banerjee-led party, citing recent resignations and meetings of dissident MPs as evidence of an organised attempt to weaken the TMC.

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An industrial accident at the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (Vizag Steel Plant) in Visakhapatnam resulted in the deaths of at least six workers after molten iron spilt on them. Authorities are investigating the incident, and rescue operations are underway.

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Mr Pradhan is not an especially charismatic leader or a brilliant orator, but his understanding of realpolitik and organisational dynamics makes him the ultimate party man, points out Aditi Phadnis.

Rahul wears white t-shirt becasue he hates...: Union minister

Rahul wears white t-shirt becasue he hates...: Union minister

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

Rahul Gandhi has urged the youth of Bihar to join him in the march in Begusarai wearing "white T-shirts".

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.