News for 'west'

Stay alert during counting, seek recounts in close contests: Mamata to agents

Stay alert during counting, seek recounts in close contests: Mamata to agents

Rediff.com2 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee will hold a virtual meeting with TMC counting agents to prepare for the vote counting of the assembly elections.

Farooq Abdullah Calls for Dialogue Amid Escalating West Asia Violence

Farooq Abdullah Calls for Dialogue Amid Escalating West Asia Violence

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has voiced his concern over the escalating violence in West Asia, urging all parties to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and protect civilian lives.

Bengal Minister Grilled In Civic Body Recruitment Scam Probe

Bengal Minister Grilled In Civic Body Recruitment Scam Probe

Rediff.com1 May 2026

West Bengal minister Sujit Bose was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate for nearly nine hours in connection with the alleged civic body recruitment scam.

Four Held With Heroin Worth Rs 1 Crore In Araria

Four Held With Heroin Worth Rs 1 Crore In Araria

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Police in Araria district, Bihar, arrested four individuals from West Bengal with heroin valued at Rs one crore. The suspects were apprehended in the Town police station area and confessed to transporting the drugs for a local dealer.

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A BJP government in Bengal inherits more problems than it might care to admit at its moment of triumph, points out Ramesh Menon

Poll duty keeps buses off roads in Kolkata, commuters face hardships

Poll duty keeps buses off roads in Kolkata, commuters face hardships

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Commuters in Kolkata and surrounding areas are experiencing significant difficulties due to a shortage of buses, as many vehicles remain engaged in election duties related to the West Bengal polls. Normal service is not expected to resume until after the counting process on May 4.

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness dedicated a scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park, highlighting the strong cricket ties between the two nations.

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has reviewed the evolving situation in West Asia, directing departments to assist Indian nationals affected by recent developments and emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy.

Blast the hell out of them or...: Trump's Iran options

Blast the hell out of them or...: Trump's Iran options

Rediff.com2 May 2026

US President Donald Trump said the United States faces a stark choice in its approach to Iran, either to pursue a negotiated settlement or escalate militarily, as tensions continue to rise in the West Asia region.

Why Overall Crime Rate In India Dipped In 2024

Why Overall Crime Rate In India Dipped In 2024

Rediff.com6 May 2026

India recorded a 6% dip in overall crime in 2024, with 58.85 lakh cases registered compared to 62.41 lakh in 2023, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. Crime rates per lakh population also decreased, with Kerala, Puducherry, and West Bengal leading in solving crimes. While some crimes like those against women and SC/STs saw declines, cybercrime and crimes against senior citizens increased.

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.

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The TMC has challenged the BJP to win the Falta assembly seat in West Bengal, where a re-election has been ordered due to electoral offences. The TMC has dared the BJP to deploy its full resources, including top leaders and central forces, while expressing confidence in the electorate's support.

India Imports 361,000 Tonnes Of LPG From US

India Imports 361,000 Tonnes Of LPG From US

Rediff.com4 May 2026

'Historically, India has depended on the Middle Eastern Gulf for nearly 90 per cent of its LPG imports. Shifting to alternative suppliers is not something that can happen quickly.'

How BJP Secured Victory In Haryana Municipal Corporation Polls

How BJP Secured Victory In Haryana Municipal Corporation Polls

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The BJP has achieved significant victories in the Haryana municipal corporation elections, securing wins in Ambala and Sonipat, and leading in Panchkula. The party also won the president's post in Sampla, a stronghold of former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, where the Congress did not field a candidate.

India restricts gold imports to 100 kg under Advance Authorisation scheme

India restricts gold imports to 100 kg under Advance Authorisation scheme

Rediff.com14 May 2026

India has capped gold imports under the Advance Authorisation scheme at 100 kg, a day after significantly increasing import duties on precious metals. This move aims to tighten conditions for duty-free gold imports by jewellery exporters and curb non-essential imports amidst a ballooning import bill.

Mamata camps for 4 hours at EVM strong room, leaves after midnight

Mamata camps for 4 hours at EVM strong room, leaves after midnight

Rediff.com1 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has warned against any attempts to tamper with the counting process, following a visit to an EVM strong room in Bhabanipur where she alleged possible malpractice.

India Retain Top Spot In ICC ODI Team Rankings

India Retain Top Spot In ICC ODI Team Rankings

Rediff.com11 May 2026

India has retained their top position in the ICC men's ODI team rankings following the latest annual update, with Australia securing the third spot. The update impacts direct qualification for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

How BJP Dominated Haryana Municipal Corporation Elections

How BJP Dominated Haryana Municipal Corporation Elections

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The BJP has secured significant victories in the Haryana municipal corporation elections, winning in Ambala and Sonipat, and leading in Panchkula. The party also won the president's post in Sampla, a stronghold of former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, where the Congress did not field a candidate.

High drama outside TN Lok Bhavan, Vijay's house amid uncertainty

High drama outside TN Lok Bhavan, Vijay's house amid uncertainty

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Supporters of TVK chief Vijay gathered in large numbers outside his residence, demanding he be invited to take the oath as Chief Minister amid ongoing political uncertainty in Tamil Nadu. The gathering highlights the pressure on the TVK leadership to clarify its roadmap for the upcoming elections and its position on the ongoing government formation deadlock.

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'This system will be of immense help in agricultural planning, disaster management and water resources management.'

NIA to probe crude bomb recovery in Bengal ahead of second phase polls

NIA to probe crude bomb recovery in Bengal ahead of second phase polls

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a case to probe the recovery of 79 crude bombs in West Bengal following a directive from the Union Home Ministry.

Suvendu aide's murder likely to fuel post-poll violence in Bengal

Suvendu aide's murder likely to fuel post-poll violence in Bengal

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The murder of a close aide to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in West Bengal has ignited post-election violence, raising concerns about political stability and the transition of power.

Bangladeshi Nationals Top List Of Foreigners Arrested In India: NCRB

Bangladeshi Nationals Top List Of Foreigners Arrested In India: NCRB

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Bangladeshi nationals topped the list of foreign nationals arrested in India in 2024, according to the latest NCRB data, followed by Nigerians and Nepalis. West Bengal recorded the highest number of crimes committed by foreigners among states, while Delhi topped union territories.

Affordable housing may lose more ground as costs rise

Affordable housing may lose more ground as costs rise

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The ongoing West Asia conflict is expected to severely impact the supply of affordable housing in India, as rising input costs further erode already thin developer margins. Fluctuations in crude oil and gas prices, coupled with higher freight costs, are driving up prices of essential construction materials like cement and steel, making new projects increasingly unviable for developers.

Is a quick comeback within reach for Mamata after this setback?

Is a quick comeback within reach for Mamata after this setback?

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Mamata Banerjee's defeat in West Bengal marks a significant turning point in her political career, challenging her ability to rebuild and regain influence after a long period of dominance.

'Subversion of democratic process': Bengal's Falta to see repolling on May 21

'Subversion of democratic process': Bengal's Falta to see repolling on May 21

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The Election Commission has ordered a repoll in all 285 polling booths of the Falta assembly constituency in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district on May 21, following reports of severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during the second phase of the assembly elections.

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness dedicated a scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park, highlighting the strong cricket ties between the two nations.

Gold, silver sell at huge discount after tariff hike

Gold, silver sell at huge discount after tariff hike

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Despite a sharp increase in import duties on gold and silver to 15 per cent, the precious metals are trading at significant discounts in the domestic market, with gold seeing discounts of up to $200 an ounce and silver up to $6 an ounce.

India Inc's FY27 earnings forecast cut amid Iran war

India Inc's FY27 earnings forecast cut amid Iran war

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Analysts are revising down India Inc's financial year 2026-27 (FY27) earnings growth forecasts, citing persistently high crude oil prices above $100 a barrel due to the West Asia conflict, which is expected to dent corporate financial performance in the coming quarters.

Why BJP Says Mamata Banerjee Is Making Herself A 'Laughing Stock'

Why BJP Says Mamata Banerjee Is Making Herself A 'Laughing Stock'

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP has criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for refusing to resign after the party's decisive defeat in the assembly elections, calling her stance a 'laughing stock'. The BJP alleges that Banerjee's claims of irregularities are aimed at remaining in the spotlight.

'Frustrated' Trump considering resuming war on Iran: Report

'Frustrated' Trump considering resuming war on Iran: Report

Rediff.com12 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering military action against Iran due to stalled negotiations and Tehran's approach to its nuclear issue, according to CNN sources. Divisions within the Trump administration have emerged over the next course of action, with some officials advocating for a more aggressive approach through targeted military strikes.

Major Fire Engulfs Migrant Workers' Sheds In Bengaluru

Major Fire Engulfs Migrant Workers' Sheds In Bengaluru

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A major fire in Bengaluru gutted at least 20 temporary sheds where migrant workers from West Bengal were living. No injuries were reported as most workers were away voting. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

Bhagwant Mann Accuses BJP Of Orchestrating Punjab Blasts

Bhagwant Mann Accuses BJP Of Orchestrating Punjab Blasts

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP of orchestrating the recent blasts in Amritsar and Jalandhar to create an atmosphere of fear ahead of upcoming assembly elections. Mann alleges the BJP seeks to incite violence and intimidate the public to gain votes, a tactic he claims they employ in every state where they contest elections.

SC refuses to intervene in TMC plea on vote counting deployment in Bengal

SC refuses to intervene in TMC plea on vote counting deployment in Bengal

Rediff.com2 May 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to interfere with the Election Commission's circular regarding the deployment of central government personnel for vote counting in West Bengal, dismissing a plea by the TMC.

Nagpur Man Killed After Colleague Throws Knife

Nagpur Man Killed After Colleague Throws Knife

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A 26-year-old lounge cashier in Nagpur died after a colleague threw a foldable knife that opened mid-air and pierced his chest.

Dravid believes ETPL can help Europe challenge cricket's elite

Dravid believes ETPL can help Europe challenge cricket's elite

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Rahul Dravid said the European T20 Premier League offers an 'exciting opportunity' to grow cricket in Europe after becoming owner of the Dublin Guardians franchise.

Gandhinagar Hosts Asian Senior Weightlifting Championships

Gandhinagar Hosts Asian Senior Weightlifting Championships

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The 2026 Asian Senior Weightlifting Championships, featuring participants from approximately 30 nations, commenced in Gandhinagar, highlighting India's growing role in international sports.

BJP Accuses AAP Of Bengal-Like Tactics In Punjab

BJP Accuses AAP Of Bengal-Like Tactics In Punjab

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has accused the Aam Aadmi Party of orchestrating attacks on BJP offices in the state, demanding action against those responsible and warning against creating 'Bengal-like conditions' in Punjab.

Clashes erupt in Bengal's Howrah, Haroa ahead of second phase of polls

Clashes erupt in Bengal's Howrah, Haroa ahead of second phase of polls

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Sporadic incidents of violence were reported in Howrah and Haroa areas of West Bengal in the run-up to the second phase of polling. Clashes broke out between Trinamool Congress and BJP supporters in Howrah, while a police sub-inspector was injured in Haroa during a clash between TMC and ISF supporters.

Kerala Assembly Elections: Cash And Contraband Worth Over Rs 80 Crore Seized

Kerala Assembly Elections: Cash And Contraband Worth Over Rs 80 Crore Seized

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Election Commission reports the seizure of cash and contraband worth Rs 80.67 crore in Kerala during enforcement activities related to the recent Assembly elections.