News for 'us secretary of state'

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.

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

If Iran and Oman choose to charge a fee for rendering services to vessels using their territorial waters, so be it. The US is indulging in an irrationally self-destructive act, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

TVK meets CPI for support; Left party to decide on Friday

TVK meets CPI for support; Left party to decide on Friday

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam joint general secretary CTR Nirmal Kumar, accompanied by party leaders, met with the Communist Party of India leaders at the CPI office in Chennai on Thursday, to garner the support for making goverment in Tamil Nadu.

Kerala Government Orders Probe Into Periya Murder Parole

Kerala Government Orders Probe Into Periya Murder Parole

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Congress-led UDF government in Kerala has ordered an urgent inquiry into the parole granted to the accused in the Periya twin murder case, following political concern and scrutiny.

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Congress party has announced VD Satheesan as the next chief minister of Kerala, ending days of speculation. The decision was revealed at a press conference in New Delhi.

Bihar CM Rewards Ishan Kishan For T20 World Cup Win

Bihar CM Rewards Ishan Kishan For T20 World Cup Win

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary felicitated Ishan Kishan with a cheque of Rs 1 crore for his contribution to India's 2026 T20 World Cup victory.

Buzz over AIADMK, DMK joining hands to stop Vijay

Buzz over AIADMK, DMK joining hands to stop Vijay

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Political circles in Tamil Nadu are rife with speculation about a potential alliance between rivals DMK and AIADMK to prevent the TVK from forming a government. This comes after the Congress party joined forces with TVK, further complicating the political landscape.

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Three people were killed and four others injured in an attack by suspected militants in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. The victims were members of the Thadou Baptist Association returning from a religious gathering. The Chief Minister has condemned the violence and assured support for the injured.

Allahabad HC Seeks Details Of Arms Licences Of UP Politicians

Allahabad HC Seeks Details Of Arms Licences Of UP Politicians

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to provide details of arms licences held by 19 individuals, including politicians Brij Bhushan Singh and Raja Bhaiya, citing concerns over the public display of weapons and its impact on social harmony.

No lapses will be tolerated: Pradhan reviews CBSE evaluation system

No lapses will be tolerated: Pradhan reviews CBSE evaluation system

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has directed officials to address issues faced by students regarding the CBSE examination system, following allegations of irregularities. The government has committed to transparency and accountability, assuring that all genuine concerns will be addressed effectively.

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Rediff.com30 May 2026

International water sports star Bilquis Mir has filed a contempt case against the Jammu and Kashmir sports department for withholding her salary for over two-and-a-half years, despite a tribunal order to release it.

Sports World Mourns Demise Of Randhir Singh

Sports World Mourns Demise Of Randhir Singh

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Veteran sports administrator and India's first shooting gold-medallist in Asian Games, Randhir Singh, has died at the age of 79. Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed their condolences.

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

Rediff.com16 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom will meet Iranian FA officials in Istanbul to offer reassurance over Iran's participation in the World Cup, amidst concerns raised by recent geopolitical tensions and visa issues.

Aita Promises Player-Centric Approach, Transparent System

Aita Promises Player-Centric Approach, Transparent System

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) leadership, led by President Chintan Parikh and Secretary General Sunder Iyer, has pledged to prioritise player welfare, transparent governance, and athlete representation if given a full term. They aim to transform Indian tennis by addressing past administrative issues and fostering a player-centric environment.

Sensex, Nifty Surge Over 1% as Crude Oil Drops Below $100/Barrel on US-Iran Deal Hopes

Sensex, Nifty Surge Over 1% as Crude Oil Drops Below $100/Barrel on US-Iran Deal Hopes

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, surged over 1 per cent, driven by a significant correction in crude oil prices and a global market rally, fueled by improving sentiment surrounding potential US-Iran negotiations.

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

Rediff.com22 May 2026

As many as 35 vessels, including cargo carriers and oil tankers, successfully navigated through the strategic maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz over the last 24 hours, according to Iran's state media reports citing a formal declaration by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.

Punjab CM Refuses CBI Inquiry, Backs State Police in Suicide Case

Punjab CM Refuses CBI Inquiry, Backs State Police in Suicide Case

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has rejected calls for a CBI investigation into the alleged suicide of an official in Amritsar, asserting the Punjab Police's capability to conduct a fair probe and promising no protection for anyone involved.

AMMK chief files plaint against TVK over 'forged' support letter

AMMK chief files plaint against TVK over 'forged' support letter

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The AMMK has filed a complaint against the TVK, alleging the use of a forged support letter to claim government formation. The Guindy police are conducting a preliminary inquiry into the matter.

Self-Styled Godman And Aide In Nashik Remanded To Custody

Self-Styled Godman And Aide In Nashik Remanded To Custody

Rediff.com18 May 2026

A self-styled godman, Ashok Kharat, and his aide, Namkarn Avare, have been remanded to 14-day judicial custody in Nashik following accusations of rape and alleged financial irregularities.

BJP sweeps Falta repoll by 1.5 lakh votes; TMC candidate loses deposit

BJP sweeps Falta repoll by 1.5 lakh votes; TMC candidate loses deposit

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The BJP has won the repoll to Bengal's Falta Assembly seat with a significant margin, marking a dramatic shift in the political landscape of West Bengal. The TMC's candidate slipped to fourth place and forfeited his deposit in what was once considered a TMC stronghold.

Why West Bengal Is Reducing Security For Key Figures

Why West Bengal Is Reducing Security For Key Figures

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The West Bengal government has further scaled down security arrangements for several political leaders, former officials, and other prominent individuals after a review of threat perceptions.

Masked Men Target Haryana Congress Chief's Ancestral Home

Masked Men Target Haryana Congress Chief's Ancestral Home

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Masked men attempted to break into the ancestral house of Haryana Congress president Rao Narender Singh in Narnaul. The attempt failed after staff members woke up and alerted the police.

Gold drops to Rs 1.64 lakh/10g as Iran talks temper market anxiety

Gold drops to Rs 1.64 lakh/10g as Iran talks temper market anxiety

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Gold prices in the national capital fell by Rs 600 to Rs 1.64 lakh per 10 grams, influenced by tentative progress in US-Iran negotiations, which reduced demand for precious metals. However, unresolved tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue to keep traders cautious.

De-list converted tribals from ST category: Tribal groups in Delhi meet

De-list converted tribals from ST category: Tribal groups in Delhi meet

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Members of various tribal communities gathered in Delhi to demand the de-listing of converted tribals from the Scheduled Tribe category. The event, organised by the RSS affiliate Janajati Suraksha Manch, saw participation from around 1.5 lakh people from over 500 tribal communities.

Haryana Hospital Raided For Illegal Sex Determination Operation

Haryana Hospital Raided For Illegal Sex Determination Operation

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Haryana health officials busted an alleged illegal sex determination operation at Aayu Hospital in Gurugram, leading to the arrest of a radiologist and the sealing of an ultrasound machine.

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.

Haryana Rights Body Seeks Report On Prison Suicides, Violence

Haryana Rights Body Seeks Report On Prison Suicides, Violence

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of increasing incidents of suicides, unnatural deaths, violence, mental health issues, overcrowding and inadequate psychological support systems in state prisons.

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 May 2026

India on Friday launched a highly coordinated, priority operation to safely guide 13 Indian-flagged commercial vessels out of the volatile Strait of Hormuz, the ministry of ports, shipping, and waterways announced on Friday.

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu from IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers in Tamil Nadu, increasing the number of allies in the TVK government. This marks the first time representatives from both parties have been inducted into the state cabinet, signifying a shift in Tamil Nadu's coalition dynamics.

Twisha Sharma death case: CBI probe recommended; kin moves HC for 2nd autopsy

Twisha Sharma death case: CBI probe recommended; kin moves HC for 2nd autopsy

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh government has proposed transferring the case of Twisha Sharma, who allegedly died due to dowry harassment, to the CBI. The family has also filed a plea in the High Court for a second post-mortem, citing flaws in the initial one.

Congress Continues Deliberations On Kerala Chief Minister

Congress Continues Deliberations On Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Congress party is still undecided on who will be Kerala's next Chief Minister, even after discussions between party leaders. Several leaders are vying for the position, and the high command is waiting for the political climate to calm down before making an announcement.

Trump-Xi Rapprochement: Time For India To Be Cautious

Trump-Xi Rapprochement: Time For India To Be Cautious

Rediff.com21 May 2026

India would confront a more entrenched China, a less dependable United States, and a regional order increasingly shaped by great-power bargaining over which it exercises limited influence, notes Amberish K Diwanji.

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Rediff.com25 May 2026

This could come as a setback to thousands of Indian engineers who have waited for years for their work visas to pave the way for the coveted Green Card.

Real Estate Businessman Arrested In Punjab Land Use Scam

Real Estate Businessman Arrested In Punjab Land Use Scam

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a real estate businessman in a money laundering investigation linked to submission of alleged fake consent letters for obtaining Change of Land Use (CLU) from the Punjab government.

Petrol, diesel prices hiked again within a week, up by 90 paise

Petrol, diesel prices hiked again within a week, up by 90 paise

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have been increased for the second time in a week, following a long freeze on revisions. The increase comes as global crude prices surge and state-run oil firms look to recoup losses.

West Bengal Enhances Border Security, Targets Infiltrators

West Bengal Enhances Border Security, Targets Infiltrators

Rediff.com20 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a new border security initiative, including land transfer to the BSF and a 'detect, delete and deport' policy targeting infiltrators.

Kerala Assembly Polls: NSS Chief On UDF Victory

Kerala Assembly Polls: NSS Chief On UDF Victory

Rediff.com6 May 2026

NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair stated that the UDF's victory in the Kerala assembly polls was due to public dissatisfaction with the government, not individual efforts. He also mentioned ongoing differences with Congress leader V D Satheesan but denied issuing directions on whom to support in the elections.

FIFA Confident Of Iran's World Cup Participation After 'Positive Meeting'

FIFA Confident Of Iran's World Cup Participation After 'Positive Meeting'

Rediff.com17 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom expressed confidence in Iran's participation in the upcoming World Cup after a meeting with Iran's FA President Mehdi Taj, despite concerns over visa issues and political tensions.

Why Kolkata Municipal Corporation Is Investigating Banerjee's Properties

Why Kolkata Municipal Corporation Is Investigating Banerjee's Properties

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued notices to properties linked to TMC's Abhishek Banerjee, seeking building plans for scrutiny amid allegations of unauthorised construction.

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Rediff.com12 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to visit China for talks with President Xi Jinping on trade, global issues, and the Gulf war. The visit aims to address trade frictions and other key issues, with high expectations for progress.