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In this segment of WION, Watch exclusive conversation with Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai over today's Parliament meet. Watch this video for complete details.

WION Exclusive: In conversation with Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai over today's Parliament meet

NDA Elects Narendra Modi as its Parliamentary Party Leader. Watch these live visuals of that time in this video and know more.

NDA Elects Narendra Modi as its Parliamentary Party Leader

BJP President Amit Shah greets Narendra Modi for another term as PM. Watch this video to know more.

BJP President Amit Shah greets Narendra Modi for another term as PM

Watch some live visuals of that time during the first NDA meet at Parliament House after landslide victory.

Parliament House: Visuals from First NDA meet after landslide victory

Narendra Modi to stake claim to form new govt. NDA arrives in Parliament to meet President Kovind. NDA is all set to endorse Narendra Modi as again Prime Minister of India. Watch this video to know more.

All leaders arrive for Parliamentary meet, NDA set to endorse Modi as PM

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/nda-lawmakers-meet-in-delhi-to-formally-elect-narendra-modi-as-prime-minister-221557">Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today</a>

The parliamentary board of the&nbsp;BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)&nbsp;unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition&nbsp;at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi&nbsp;on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-troop-boost-threat-to-international-peace-iran-foreign-minister-mohammad-javad-zarif-221514">US troop boost 'threat to international peace': Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a>

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Saturday a US decision to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East is a "threat to international peace," state media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/what-happened-at-the-cwc-meeting-the-inside-story-221561">What happened at the CWC meeting: The inside story</a>

At the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday, party president&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi offered to resign&nbsp;in the wake of&nbsp;humiliating defeat&nbsp;at the hands of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections. The proposal was, however, rejected but not without drama.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-warns-against-war-in-region-amid-iran-tensions-with-us-saudi-221530">Pakistan PM Imran Khan warns against war in region amid Iran tensions with US, Saudi</a>

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan warned against the risk of conflict in the region, following a visit to Islamabad by Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sexual-favours-charge-hits-afghan-government-221580">'Sexual favours' charge hits Afghan government</a>

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Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today The parliamentary board of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi on Saturday.

Modi unanimously elected leader of NDA coalition, to stake claim to form government today The parliamentary board of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leader of NDA coalition at a meeting in Parliament's Central Hall in New Delhi on Saturday. US troop boost 'threat to international peace': Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Saturday a US decision to deploy 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East is a "threat to international peace," state media reported. What happened at the CWC meeting: The inside story At the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday, party president Rahul Gandhi offered to resign in the wake of humiliating defeat at the hands of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections. The proposal was, however, rejected but not without drama. Pakistan PM Imran Khan warns against war in region amid Iran tensions with US, Saudi Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan warned against the risk of conflict in the region, following a visit to Islamabad by Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated. 'Sexual favours' charge hits Afghan government

News brief: Big stories of the day

In this segment WION exclusively speaks to Mr. Sumanth C. Raman, Senior Journalist from Chennai over NDA massive victory.

WION Exclusive: In Conversation with Mr. Sumanth C. Raman, Senior Journalist over NDA Victory

The death toll in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/surat-fire-fir-registered-against-coaching-centre-owner-builders-of-complex-221455">massive fire that broke out in Sarthana area of Surat</a>, Gujarat on Friday evening, rose to 22 today.

The toll increased&nbsp;after two students succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.

The fire broke out on the second floor of a building in Takshashila Apartments, ripping through the interior design coaching centre.&nbsp;

Following the deadly fire, the Surat Deputy chief fire officer SK Acharya and Fire officer Kirti Modh were suspended.

Earlier, an FIR had been registered against three people in connection to the massive fire.

Satish Sharma, Commissioner of Surat Police told media that an FIR against the builders of the complex - Harshal Vekaria and Jignesh - and the owner of the coaching centre Bhargav Bhutani.&nbsp;

Sharma added that the police have arrested the man who used to conduct the tuition classes.&nbsp;

The case was registered under section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and section 114 (abettor present when an offence is committed) of the Indian Penal Code in Sarthana police station against coaching centre owner Bhargav Bhutani and builders of the complex - Harshal Vekaria and Jignesh, Surat police said.

Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani said an investigation committee was set up to investigate the matter.

"It was unfortunate, more than 20 youth died. We have constituted an investigation committee, Urban Secretary has been asked to file a report based on which we will take action. Builder and Manager have been arrested, Rupani said.

He had earlier ordered an investigation into the incident and declared a financial help of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the victims.

The death toll in the massive fire that broke out in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening, rose to 22 today. The toll increased after two students succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.

The death toll in the massive fire that broke out in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening, rose to 22 today. The toll increased after two students succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. The fire broke out on the second floor of a building in Takshashila Apartments, ripping through the interior design coaching centre. Following the deadly fire, the Surat Deputy chief fire officer SK Acharya and Fire officer Kirti Modh were suspended. Earlier, an FIR had been registered against three people in connection to the massive fire. Satish Sharma, Commissioner of Surat Police told media that an FIR against the builders of the complex - Harshal Vekaria and Jignesh - and the owner of the coaching centre Bhargav Bhutani. Sharma added that the police have arrested the man who used to conduct the tuition classes. The case was registered under section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and section 114 (abettor present when an offence is committed) of the Indian Penal Code in Sarthana police station against coaching centre owner Bhargav Bhutani and builders of the complex - Harshal Vekaria and Jignesh, Surat police said. Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani said an investigation committee was set up to investigate the matter. "It was unfortunate, more than 20 youth died. We have constituted an investigation committee, Urban Secretary has been asked to file a report based on which we will take action. Builder and Manager have been arrested, Rupani said. He had earlier ordered an investigation into the incident and declared a financial help of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the victims.

Death toll rises to 22 in Surat fire after 2 more students succumb to injuries

Congress on Saturday dismissed reports that party president Rahul Gandhi has offered to resign from his post following the party`s debacle in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections.

"Reports of Congress president offering resignation are incorrect," party chief spokesperson Rajdeep Singh Surjewala said even as the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting was underway to discuss the Lok Sabha election defeat.

Earlier reports suggested that Gandhi had offered to step down and it was rejected by the CWC.

Several senior leaders, including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Motilal Vora, former union ministers RPN Singh, PL Punia and P Chidambaram, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Opposition leader in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, were present at the meeting.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, was also present in the huddle.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah are also present at the meeting.&nbsp;

The CWC, sources said, is taking stock of the party`s loss in Uttar Pradesh, the state which sends 80 members to the Lok Sabha.

Congress, despite extensive campaigning by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, was decimated to a single seat - Raebareli, represented by Sonia Gandhi - in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi, who was the MP from Amethi since 2004, lost to Union Minister Smriti Irani.

The party put up a poor show in states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh where it had won the Assembly elections just five months ago.

In the 2014 general election, the Congress had won 44 seats, the lowest score in its history. It has improved its tally marginally by 8 to reach 52 seats in the 2019 polls.

Meanwhile, the chiefs of party units in states like Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha have offered to resign from their post accepting responsibility for Congress` poor performance.&nbsp;

Congress on Saturday dismissed reports that party president Rahul Gandhi has offered to resign from his post following the party`s debacle in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections.

Congress on Saturday dismissed reports that party president Rahul Gandhi has offered to resign from his post following the party`s debacle in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. "Reports of Congress president offering resignation are incorrect," party chief spokesperson Rajdeep Singh Surjewala said even as the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting was underway to discuss the Lok Sabha election defeat. Earlier reports suggested that Gandhi had offered to step down and it was rejected by the CWC. Several senior leaders, including UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Motilal Vora, former union ministers RPN Singh, PL Punia and P Chidambaram, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Opposition leader in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, were present at the meeting. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, was also present in the huddle. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah are also present at the meeting. The CWC, sources said, is taking stock of the party`s loss in Uttar Pradesh, the state which sends 80 members to the Lok Sabha. Congress, despite extensive campaigning by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, was decimated to a single seat - Raebareli, represented by Sonia Gandhi - in Uttar Pradesh. Rahul Gandhi, who was the MP from Amethi since 2004, lost to Union Minister Smriti Irani. The party put up a poor show in states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh where it had won the Assembly elections just five months ago. In the 2014 general election, the Congress had won 44 seats, the lowest score in its history. It has improved its tally marginally by 8 to reach 52 seats in the 2019 polls. Meanwhile, the chiefs of party units in states like Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha have offered to resign from their post accepting responsibility for Congress` poor performance.

Congress dismisses talk of Rahul Gandhi's resignation

Suspected cow vigilantes allegedly thrashed two persons in Madhya Pradesh's Seoni with sticks, accusing them of carrying beef, following which five accused have been arrested, police said Saturday.

The group of five 'gau rakshaks' also allegedly forced one of the victims to beat up a woman accompanying them with chappals, a police officer said.

Police also said that the three people who were beaten up have been arrested as possession and sale of beef is illegal in Madhya Pradesh.

In a purported video clip of the incident, which has been widely circulated on social media, the five accused can be seen beating up the two men. Later, they also forced one of the men to beat up the woman accompanying them.

The attackers also forced the three persons to raise slogans of 'Jai Shree Ram', as seen in the video.

According to police, the incident occurred on May 22 on Mandla Road in Kanhiwada area under Dunda Seoni police station limits.

Seoni Superintendent of Police Lalit Shakyawar said an FIR has been registered against the five persons under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Dunda Seoni police station, and all of them have been arrested.

Dunda Seoni police station in charge GS Uike said the three persons who were beaten up have been arrested for allegedly carrying beef as its possession and sale is banned in the state.

Uike said none of the victims sustained any serious injuries in the attack.

"The accused persons shot videos of thrashing. Police reached the spot after the incident and brought the trio along with the meat they were carrying to the police station," he said.

One of the accused uploaded the video on social media on May 23, but later withdrew it following a sharp reaction from various quarters, he said. 
However, police took cognisance of the clip and traced the accused persons.

Meanwhile, the SP said police seized 140 kg red meat, suspected to be beef, from the trio. Police also seized a three-wheeler and a scooter from them.

Suspected cow vigilantes allegedly thrashed two persons in Madhya Pradesh's Seoni with sticks, accusing them of carrying beef, following which five accused have been arrested, police said Saturday.

Suspected cow vigilantes allegedly thrashed two persons in Madhya Pradesh's Seoni with sticks, accusing them of carrying beef, following which five accused have been arrested, police said Saturday. The group of five 'gau rakshaks' also allegedly forced one of the victims to beat up a woman accompanying them with chappals, a police officer said. Police also said that the three people who were beaten up have been arrested as possession and sale of beef is illegal in Madhya Pradesh. In a purported video clip of the incident, which has been widely circulated on social media, the five accused can be seen beating up the two men. Later, they also forced one of the men to beat up the woman accompanying them. The attackers also forced the three persons to raise slogans of 'Jai Shree Ram', as seen in the video. According to police, the incident occurred on May 22 on Mandla Road in Kanhiwada area under Dunda Seoni police station limits. Seoni Superintendent of Police Lalit Shakyawar said an FIR has been registered against the five persons under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Dunda Seoni police station, and all of them have been arrested. Dunda Seoni police station in charge GS Uike said the three persons who were beaten up have been arrested for allegedly carrying beef as its possession and sale is banned in the state. Uike said none of the victims sustained any serious injuries in the attack. "The accused persons shot videos of thrashing. Police reached the spot after the incident and brought the trio along with the meat they were carrying to the police station," he said. One of the accused uploaded the video on social media on May 23, but later withdrew it following a sharp reaction from various quarters, he said. However, police took cognisance of the clip and traced the accused persons. Meanwhile, the SP said police seized 140 kg red meat, suspected to be beef, from the trio. Police also seized a three-wheeler and a scooter from them.

Two beaten up for carrying beef in Madhya Pradesh, cops arrest them as well as 5 attackers

BJP leader Smriti Irani who emerged as the giant killer of Lok Sabha election 2019 by defeating Congress president Rahul Gandhi in his family bastion of Amethi said on Friday that her fight was not personal but she was only trying to secure a win for the party in the Lok Sabha constituency.

My fight with Rahul Gandhi not personal, was only trying to secure win for BJP, says Smriti Irani

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony scheduled to be held in New Delhi. Watch full video to know more.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony

Karnataka deputy CM G Parameshwara said Kumaraswamy would continue as chief minister. “The Lok Sabha election verdict doesn’t affect our state government in any way."

HD Kumaraswamy will continue as Karnataka CM, says deputy CM G Parameshwara

Curfew continued in parts of Kashmir for a second day Saturday following the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tral-encounter-curfew-imposed-in-parts-of-kashmir-after-zakir-musa-believed-to-be-killed-221162"> killing of Zakir Musa</a>, the so-called chief of an Al-Qaeda affiliated group, in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district Friday.

Officials said the curbs on the movement of people were in force in parts of Srinagar, and Kulgam and Pulwama towns.&nbsp;

Schools and colleges remained shut, while mobile internet continued to be suspended across the valley. Trains on the Baramulla-Banihal line remained off the tracks due to the situation, the officials said.

"Curfew continued to remain imposed in parts of the Kashmir valley today (Saturday) as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order," they said.

In Srinagar, the officials said, "strict restrictions" were in place in Nowhatta, Rainawari, Khanyar, Safakadal and M R Gung police station areas, while "partial restrictions" were in force in Maisuma and Kralkhud areas.

Watch: Zakir Musa killed in an encounter in South Kashmir

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The officials said security forces have been deployed in strength in other parts of the valley to avoid any untoward incident.

Musa, the so-called head of the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, was killed in the encounter at Dadsara village of Tral in the south Kashmir's Pulwama district on Friday after forces launched a search operation on late Thursday evening following specific information about the presence of militants there.

The officials said efforts were made to make Musa surrender, but the request fell on deaf ears and he lobbed grenades on the forces using a launcher, triggering a gunfight in which Musa was killed in the early hours of Friday.

His killing led to spontaneous shutdown and protests in the valley.

Meanwhile, most of the shops, fuel stations and other business establishments remained shut in the valley due to a strike called by hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani against the killing of Musa and a civilian Zahoor Ahmad, a resident of Naira Pulwama ,&nbsp;who was killed by unidentified gunmen on Thursday, the officials said.

They said public transport was off the roads, but few private cars and auto-rickshaws were seen plying.

Curfew continued in parts of Kashmir for a second day Saturday following the killing of Zakir Musa, the so-called chief of an Al-Qaeda affiliated group, in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district Friday.

Curfew continued in parts of Kashmir for a second day Saturday following the killing of Zakir Musa, the so-called chief of an Al-Qaeda affiliated group, in an encounter with security forces in Pulwama district Friday. Officials said the curbs on the movement of people were in force in parts of Srinagar, and Kulgam and Pulwama towns. Schools and colleges remained shut, while mobile internet continued to be suspended across the valley. Trains on the Baramulla-Banihal line remained off the tracks due to the situation, the officials said. "Curfew continued to remain imposed in parts of the Kashmir valley today (Saturday) as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order," they said. In Srinagar, the officials said, "strict restrictions" were in place in Nowhatta, Rainawari, Khanyar, Safakadal and M R Gung police station areas, while "partial restrictions" were in force in Maisuma and Kralkhud areas. Watch: Zakir Musa killed in an encounter in South Kashmir × The officials said security forces have been deployed in strength in other parts of the valley to avoid any untoward incident. Musa, the so-called head of the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, was killed in the encounter at Dadsara village of Tral in the south Kashmir's Pulwama district on Friday after forces launched a search operation on late Thursday evening following specific information about the presence of militants there. The officials said efforts were made to make Musa surrender, but the request fell on deaf ears and he lobbed grenades on the forces using a launcher, triggering a gunfight in which Musa was killed in the early hours of Friday. His killing led to spontaneous shutdown and protests in the valley. Meanwhile, most of the shops, fuel stations and other business establishments remained shut in the valley due to a strike called by hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani against the killing of Musa and a civilian Zahoor Ahmad, a resident of Naira Pulwama , who was killed by unidentified gunmen on Thursday, the officials said. They said public transport was off the roads, but few private cars and auto-rickshaws were seen plying.

Zakir Musa killing: Curfew continues in parts of Kashmir for second day

The BJP has won 41 seats in the 60-member <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arunachal-pradesh-mla-tirong-aboh-among-11-killed-in-terrorist-ambush-220482">Arunachal Pradesh</a> Assembly after results of all the constituencies were announced, an election official said Saturday.

Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh were held for 57 seats as three BJP candidates were earlier declared elected unopposed.

The Janata Dal (United) won seven seats, the National People's Party (NPP) five, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-congress-has-nobody-other-than-itself-to-blame-for-the-debacle-221200"> Congress </a>four, the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) one and Independents two.

Counting of votes on Friday for Daporijo, Dumporijo and Raga constituencies in Upper Subansiri district was delayed, the official said.

In the Daporijo seat, the result of which was announced early this morning, BJP candidate Taniky Soki won the seat defeating his nearest Congress rival Togam Tamim.

BJP candidate Rode Bui bagged the Dumporijo seat defeating his nearest JD(U) rival Gumjum Haider while Tarin Dakpe of the National People's Party won the Raga seat, the official said.

Counting of votes on Friday for Daporijo, Dumporijo and Raga constituencies in Upper Subansiri district was delayed as the counting officials went away from the counting centre without handing over the results for which counting could not be continued as per the guidelines.

However, it started after the polling officials returned and handed over the results, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Kanki Darang said.

Among the prominent BJP winners are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who won from the Mukto seat, bordering China, for the third time in a row. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein won from the Chowkham constituency.

In Miao constituency, state Geology and Mining Minister and BJP nominee Kamlung Mossang beat Chatu Longai of the Congress by 3,856 votes to retain the seat.

The Namsang seat, which witnessed a multi-cornered contest, voted in favour of PHE minister and BJP nominee Wangki Lowang for the third time in a row.

In the prestigious Tawang seat, BJP candidate Tsering Tashi trounced veteran Congress leader Thupten Tempa by a margin of 3,592 votes.

Power minister and BJP candidate Tamiyo Taga tasted defeat at the hands of newcomer Talem Taboh of the JD(U) in Rumgong, Assembly Speaker Tenzing Norbu Thongdok, who represented the Kalaktang constituency for two terms, failed to wrest the seat from JD(U) greenhorn Dorjee Wangdi Kharma.

State Home Minister Kumar Waii, who quit the BJP to join the NPP, lost the Bameng assembly seat to newbie Gorduk Pordung of the saffron party.

The Congress won four seats but Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Takam Sanjoy lost to Jummum Ete Deori of the BJP in the Lekang seat.

The Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Assembly, Takam Pario of the Congress lost the Palin seat to the BJP's Balo Raja.

The BJP has won 41 seats in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly after results of all the constituencies were announced, an election official said Saturday. Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh were held for 57 seats as three BJP candidates were earlier declared elected unopposed.

The BJP has won 41 seats in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly after results of all the constituencies were announced, an election official said Saturday. Assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh were held for 57 seats as three BJP candidates were earlier declared elected unopposed. The Janata Dal (United) won seven seats, the National People's Party (NPP) five, the Congress four, the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) one and Independents two. Counting of votes on Friday for Daporijo, Dumporijo and Raga constituencies in Upper Subansiri district was delayed, the official said. In the Daporijo seat, the result of which was announced early this morning, BJP candidate Taniky Soki won the seat defeating his nearest Congress rival Togam Tamim. BJP candidate Rode Bui bagged the Dumporijo seat defeating his nearest JD(U) rival Gumjum Haider while Tarin Dakpe of the National People's Party won the Raga seat, the official said. Counting of votes on Friday for Daporijo, Dumporijo and Raga constituencies in Upper Subansiri district was delayed as the counting officials went away from the counting centre without handing over the results for which counting could not be continued as per the guidelines. However, it started after the polling officials returned and handed over the results, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Kanki Darang said. Among the prominent BJP winners are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who won from the Mukto seat, bordering China, for the third time in a row. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein won from the Chowkham constituency. In Miao constituency, state Geology and Mining Minister and BJP nominee Kamlung Mossang beat Chatu Longai of the Congress by 3,856 votes to retain the seat. The Namsang seat, which witnessed a multi-cornered contest, voted in favour of PHE minister and BJP nominee Wangki Lowang for the third time in a row. In the prestigious Tawang seat, BJP candidate Tsering Tashi trounced veteran Congress leader Thupten Tempa by a margin of 3,592 votes. Power minister and BJP candidate Tamiyo Taga tasted defeat at the hands of newcomer Talem Taboh of the JD(U) in Rumgong, Assembly Speaker Tenzing Norbu Thongdok, who represented the Kalaktang constituency for two terms, failed to wrest the seat from JD(U) greenhorn Dorjee Wangdi Kharma. State Home Minister Kumar Waii, who quit the BJP to join the NPP, lost the Bameng assembly seat to newbie Gorduk Pordung of the saffron party. The Congress won four seats but Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Takam Sanjoy lost to Jummum Ete Deori of the BJP in the Lekang seat. The Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing Assembly, Takam Pario of the Congress lost the Palin seat to the BJP's Balo Raja.

BJP wins 41 seats in 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.&nbsp;

As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said.&nbsp;

"Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said.

The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results.&nbsp;

In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament. As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said. "Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said. The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state. The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results. In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

DMK to be third largest party in Lok Sabha; Trinamool Congress, YSR fourth

At least 20&nbsp;died following a major fire at a building in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening.&nbsp;

Surat Police Commissioner Satish Kumar Mishra had earlier confirmed the death of 15 people adding that the toll might go up.

The fire broke out on the second floor of a building in&nbsp;Takshashila Apartments.&nbsp;

Several people were also seen jumping from the top floor of the building as the fire raged.&nbsp;Students of a coaching centre situated in it were seen jumping off the building to escape the blaze.

The authorities have recovered four dead bodies from the site so far.

Around 18 fire tenders are battling the fire. The authorities have also called for hydraulic to control the fire.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has ordered an investigation into the incident and declared a financial help of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the victims. He also visited the hospital to meet the injured ones.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet sent out condolences for the affected families while praying for the recovery of the injured.

“Extremely anguished by the fire tragedy in Surat. My thoughts are with bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. Have asked the Gujarat Government and local authorities to provide all possible assistance to those affected” Modi tweeted.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted "Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives due to fire in Surat. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At least 20 died following a major fire at a building in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening. Surat Police Commissioner Satish Kumar Mishra had earlier confirmed the death of 15 people adding that the toll might go up.

At least 20 died following a major fire at a building in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening. Surat Police Commissioner Satish Kumar Mishra had earlier confirmed the death of 15 people adding that the toll might go up. The fire broke out on the second floor of a building in Takshashila Apartments. Several people were also seen jumping from the top floor of the building as the fire raged. Students of a coaching centre situated in it were seen jumping off the building to escape the blaze. The authorities have recovered four dead bodies from the site so far. Around 18 fire tenders are battling the fire. The authorities have also called for hydraulic to control the fire. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has ordered an investigation into the incident and declared a financial help of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the victims. He also visited the hospital to meet the injured ones. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet sent out condolences for the affected families while praying for the recovery of the injured. “Extremely anguished by the fire tragedy in Surat. My thoughts are with bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. Have asked the Gujarat Government and local authorities to provide all possible assistance to those affected” Modi tweeted. Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted "Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives due to fire in Surat. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured." (With inputs from agencies)

20 dead, several injured in major fire in Surat building

After it <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/will-work-with-pm-modi-for-betterment-of-people-of-delhi-arvind-kejriwal-after-losing-on-all-7-seats-221149">won all seven Lok Sabha seats</a> in the national capital by huge margins, the BJP Thursday expressed confidence that it would wrest power in the city from the AAP in next year's assembly elections.

The BJP has been out of power in the city for more than 25 years. Its last victory in assembly elections in Delhi came in 1993.

People of Delhi are determined to form a strong government led by the BJP for development of the city, city BJP president Manoj Tiwari said after the victory of the party in the Lok Sabha polls.

"The AAP has been pushed to a distant third in Delhi in the Lok Sabha polls. Delhi people have rejected politics of lies," Tiwari said.

People have made up their mind to replace the AAP dispensation with a strong government under the BJP in 2020, he claimed.

"The negative politics practised by negative-minded leaders of Delhi has been rejected by the people and they are determined to form a strong government after Assembly elections," he said.

Tiwari attributed BJP's victory in Delhi to the works of the Modi government.

The victory margins were massive this time. BJP's West Delhi candidate Parvesh Singh Verma won by a margin 5,78,486 votes, breaking his own victory margin record of 2014.

He was followed by North West Delhi candidate Hans Raj Hans who defeated his AAP rival Gugan Singh by a margin of 5,53,897 votes.

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir defeated Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely by a margin of 3,91,222 votes.

Watch: PM Modi addresses BJP workers at BJP HQ, New Delhi

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After it won all seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital by huge margins, the BJP Thursday expressed confidence that it would wrest power in the city from the AAP in next year's assembly elections.

After it won all seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital by huge margins, the BJP Thursday expressed confidence that it would wrest power in the city from the AAP in next year's assembly elections. The BJP has been out of power in the city for more than 25 years. Its last victory in assembly elections in Delhi came in 1993. People of Delhi are determined to form a strong government led by the BJP for development of the city, city BJP president Manoj Tiwari said after the victory of the party in the Lok Sabha polls. "The AAP has been pushed to a distant third in Delhi in the Lok Sabha polls. Delhi people have rejected politics of lies," Tiwari said. People have made up their mind to replace the AAP dispensation with a strong government under the BJP in 2020, he claimed. "The negative politics practised by negative-minded leaders of Delhi has been rejected by the people and they are determined to form a strong government after Assembly elections," he said. Tiwari attributed BJP's victory in Delhi to the works of the Modi government. The victory margins were massive this time. BJP's West Delhi candidate Parvesh Singh Verma won by a margin 5,78,486 votes, breaking his own victory margin record of 2014. He was followed by North West Delhi candidate Hans Raj Hans who defeated his AAP rival Gugan Singh by a margin of 5,53,897 votes. Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir defeated Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely by a margin of 3,91,222 votes. Watch: PM Modi addresses BJP workers at BJP HQ, New Delhi ×

Lok Sabha election result 2019: High in confidence after winning all 7 seats in Delhi, BJP sets eye on assembly polls

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions.

India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-painful-consequences-if-us-escalates-tensions-220517">Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran</a> and ended all exemptions to sanctions, Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla said.

"That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Shringla told reporters during a briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election victory.

Shringla said that energy-hungry India has also ended all imports from Venezuela because it considered itself a partner of the United States -- but said the shift had caused pain at home, with Iran formerly supplying 10 per cent of India's oil needs.

Calling Iran "an extended neighbour" of India with longstanding cultural links, Shringla declined to say if New Delhi shared President Donald Trump's concerns about Tehran.

"This is an issue that has to be dealt with, really, between the United States and Iran. We are only, in many senses, looking at it as a third party," Shringla said.

But he added: "We would not like to see a move towards any escalation in any way in that area, for the simple reason that we depend very heavily on stability in that part of the world."

Trump last year pulled out of a multinational pact under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear work in return for promises of sanctions relief.

The Trump administration has instead ramped up economic pressure on Iran and recently deployed military assets including an aircraft carrier strike group to the area.

The United States as of May 2 ended exemptions it had given to eight governments from its unilateral order to stop buying Iranian oil.

Turkey, which enjoyed a waiver and vocally disagreed with the US policy, has also stopped importing oil from Iran, a Turkish official said Wednesday.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus welcomed the news from Turkey.

"We want the whole world to comply with these sanctions, and we're grateful for our partners and allies that are respecting them," she told reporters.

The Indian ambassador, however, voiced confidence that US sanctions would not affect its partnership in developing Iran's Chabahar port.&nbsp;

India wants to use the port to ship supplies into Afghanistan in a detour from its arch-rival Pakistan, which historically backed the Taliban.&nbsp;

"I think it is in the interest of both our countries and all others concerned to ensure that that lifeline continues for the people of Afghanistan," Shringla said.

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions.

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions. India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran and ended all exemptions to sanctions, Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla said. "That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Shringla told reporters during a briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election victory. Shringla said that energy-hungry India has also ended all imports from Venezuela because it considered itself a partner of the United States -- but said the shift had caused pain at home, with Iran formerly supplying 10 per cent of India's oil needs. Calling Iran "an extended neighbour" of India with longstanding cultural links, Shringla declined to say if New Delhi shared President Donald Trump's concerns about Tehran. "This is an issue that has to be dealt with, really, between the United States and Iran. We are only, in many senses, looking at it as a third party," Shringla said. But he added: "We would not like to see a move towards any escalation in any way in that area, for the simple reason that we depend very heavily on stability in that part of the world." Trump last year pulled out of a multinational pact under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear work in return for promises of sanctions relief. The Trump administration has instead ramped up economic pressure on Iran and recently deployed military assets including an aircraft carrier strike group to the area. The United States as of May 2 ended exemptions it had given to eight governments from its unilateral order to stop buying Iranian oil. Turkey, which enjoyed a waiver and vocally disagreed with the US policy, has also stopped importing oil from Iran, a Turkish official said Wednesday. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus welcomed the news from Turkey. "We want the whole world to comply with these sanctions, and we're grateful for our partners and allies that are respecting them," she told reporters. The Indian ambassador, however, voiced confidence that US sanctions would not affect its partnership in developing Iran's Chabahar port. India wants to use the port to ship supplies into Afghanistan in a detour from its arch-rival Pakistan, which historically backed the Taliban. "I think it is in the interest of both our countries and all others concerned to ensure that that lifeline continues for the people of Afghanistan," Shringla said.

Amid Washington-Tehran tension, India ends Iranian oil imports: Envoy

Curfew was imposed in parts of Kashmir on Friday, a day after Zakir Musa, the so-called chief of a group affiliated to the Al-Qaeda, was believed to have been killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral.

Educational institutions have been closed and curfew was imposed in places in Kashmir as a precautionary measure, following the Thursday incident, officials said.&nbsp;

Internet was also shut down, they said.&nbsp;

Musa, who is believed to have been killed in the gunfight with security forces, was the so-called head of the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.&nbsp;

Two terrorists have killed in the encounter in a village south Kashmir's Tral area but there was no confirmation about their identities.&nbsp;

However, Musa's family confirmed that he was present at the site.&nbsp;

Spontaneous protests had broken out in Shopian, Pulwama, Awantipora and downtown Srinagar, with people raising slogans in favour of Musa.

Senior police officials had said security forces had launched a cordon and search operation at Dadsara village and when the terrorists tried to escape, a gunfight broke out.

They had said efforts were made to make them surrender but the request fell on deaf ears and the holed up terrorists started lobbing grenades using a launcher.

The officials had said more security forces were rushed to the area to prevent the terrorists from escaping under the cover of darkness.

On Thursday, the Jammu and Kashmir Police announced restrictions in some areas of Pulwama, Awantipora, Srinagar, Anantnag and Budgam as a precautionary measure.

The officials said the decision was made keeping in view the Friday prayer gatherings.

Curfew was imposed in parts of Kashmir on Friday, a day after Zakir Musa, the so-called chief of a group affiliated to the Al-Qaeda, was believed to have been killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral.

Curfew was imposed in parts of Kashmir on Friday, a day after Zakir Musa, the so-called chief of a group affiliated to the Al-Qaeda, was believed to have been killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral. Educational institutions have been closed and curfew was imposed in places in Kashmir as a precautionary measure, following the Thursday incident, officials said. Internet was also shut down, they said. Musa, who is believed to have been killed in the gunfight with security forces, was the so-called head of the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. Two terrorists have killed in the encounter in a village south Kashmir's Tral area but there was no confirmation about their identities. However, Musa's family confirmed that he was present at the site. Spontaneous protests had broken out in Shopian, Pulwama, Awantipora and downtown Srinagar, with people raising slogans in favour of Musa. Senior police officials had said security forces had launched a cordon and search operation at Dadsara village and when the terrorists tried to escape, a gunfight broke out. They had said efforts were made to make them surrender but the request fell on deaf ears and the holed up terrorists started lobbing grenades using a launcher. The officials had said more security forces were rushed to the area to prevent the terrorists from escaping under the cover of darkness. On Thursday, the Jammu and Kashmir Police announced restrictions in some areas of Pulwama, Awantipora, Srinagar, Anantnag and Budgam as a precautionary measure. The officials said the decision was made keeping in view the Friday prayer gatherings.

Tral encounter: Curfew imposed in parts of Kashmir after Zakir Musa believed to be killed

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/elections-in-india-an-inspiration-around-the-world-us-221140">Elections in India an inspiration around the world: US</a>

Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his re-election, the United States has said that the just-concluded elections in India, the largest democratic exercise in human history, is an inspiration for people around the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/nothing-is-impossible-giantslayer-smriti-irani-topples-rahul-gandhi-in-amethi-221132">Nothing is impossible: 'Giantslayer' Smriti Irani topples Rahul Gandhi in Amethi</a>

Putting an end to Amethi's decades-long-relationship with Congress, Smriti Irani has emerged as the star of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by giving Rahul Gandhi a run for his money in a constituency which was considered a bastion of the Gandhi family for decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-proves-sceptics-wrong-with-stunning-performance-in-hindi-heartland-221136">BJP proves sceptics wrong with stunning performance in Hindi heartland</a>

The BJP repeated it superlative performance in five key Hindi-speaking states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, as the party along with its allies not only bagged or was leading in 165 out of 185 Lok Sabha seats, but also enjoyed a massive vote swing in its favour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-17-new-espionage-charges-against-wikileaks-julian-assange-221127">US announces 17 new espionage charges against Wikileaks' Julian Assange</a>

The US Justice Department unveiled 17 new criminal charges against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Thursday, saying he unlawfully published the names of classified sources and conspired with and assisted ex-Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning in obtaining access to classified information.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-holds-first-gay-marriages-in-historic-day-for-asia-221142">Taiwan holds first gay marriages in historic day for Asia</a>

Taiwan's first official same-sex weddings kicked off Friday in a landmark moment for LGBT rights in Asia as gay couples took the historic step of registering as married, the culmination of a three-decade fight for equality.

Elections in India an inspiration around the world: US Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his re-election, the United States has said that the just-concluded elections in India, the largest democratic exercise in human history, is an inspiration for people around the world.

Elections in India an inspiration around the world: US Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his re-election, the United States has said that the just-concluded elections in India, the largest democratic exercise in human history, is an inspiration for people around the world. Nothing is impossible: 'Giantslayer' Smriti Irani topples Rahul Gandhi in Amethi Putting an end to Amethi's decades-long-relationship with Congress, Smriti Irani has emerged as the star of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by giving Rahul Gandhi a run for his money in a constituency which was considered a bastion of the Gandhi family for decades. BJP proves sceptics wrong with stunning performance in Hindi heartland The BJP repeated it superlative performance in five key Hindi-speaking states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, as the party along with its allies not only bagged or was leading in 165 out of 185 Lok Sabha seats, but also enjoyed a massive vote swing in its favour. US announces 17 new espionage charges against Wikileaks' Julian Assange The US Justice Department unveiled 17 new criminal charges against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Thursday, saying he unlawfully published the names of classified sources and conspired with and assisted ex-Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning in obtaining access to classified information. Taiwan holds first gay marriages in historic day for Asia Taiwan's first official same-sex weddings kicked off Friday in a landmark moment for LGBT rights in Asia as gay couples took the historic step of registering as married, the culmination of a three-decade fight for equality.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Friday successfully test-fired an indigenously-developed 500 kg class guided bomb from a Sukhoi combat jet at Pokhran in Rajasthan.

The defence ministry said the guided bomb achieved the desired range and hit the target with high precision.

"The DRDO successfully flight tested a 500 kg class Inertial Guided Bomb today from Su-30 MKI Aircraft from the Pokhran test range in Rajasthan," it said.

The ministry said all the mission objectives have been met during the test firing of the bomb, adding it is capable of carrying different warheads.

The test firing of the guided bomb came two days after the Indian Air Force successfully test fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Sukhoi jet at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability.

The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound.&nbsp;

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Friday successfully test-fired an indigenously-developed 500 kg class guided bomb from a Sukhoi combat jet at Pokhran in Rajasthan.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Friday successfully test-fired an indigenously-developed 500 kg class guided bomb from a Sukhoi combat jet at Pokhran in Rajasthan. The defence ministry said the guided bomb achieved the desired range and hit the target with high precision. "The DRDO successfully flight tested a 500 kg class Inertial Guided Bomb today from Su-30 MKI Aircraft from the Pokhran test range in Rajasthan," it said. The ministry said all the mission objectives have been met during the test firing of the bomb, adding it is capable of carrying different warheads. The test firing of the guided bomb came two days after the Indian Air Force successfully test fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Sukhoi jet at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability. The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound.

DRDO test fires guided bomb from Sukhoi combat jet

Bihar saw about 8.17 lakh voters opting for the None of The Above (NOTA) option - the highest in the country - while exercising their franchise in the 17th Lok Sabha polls.

According to the Election Commission's website, the NOTA vote share of Bihar stood at two per cent of the total votes polled in the state that has 40 Lok Sabha seats.

Daman and Diu (1.7 per cent), Andhra Pradesh (1.49 per cent) and Chhattisgarh (1.44 per cent) followed in the list with 1.7 per cent, 1.49 per cent and 1.44 per cent votes, respectively, under NOTA.

NOTA, which was introduced in India following a 2013 Supreme Court directive, allows voters to express their dissent by pressing a button saying none of the contestants is worthy of their vote.

In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, where it was introduced for the first time in any parliamentary election, around 60 lakh voters had opted for the NOTA option -- equalling about 1.1 per cent of the total votes polled during those elections across 543 seats.

In the 2019 elections, the constituency of Gopalganj in Bihar saw 51,660 voters pressing the NOTA button (5.04 per cent), the highest in the country. 
Other constituencies in the state like Paschim Champaran (4.51 per cent), Nawada (3.73 per cent) and Jahanabad (3.37 per cent) also saw many voters opting for NOTA.

While counting of votes continued till late night on Thursday, by evening, it was clear that the Bharatiya Janata Party had sealed electoral victory with a 300-plus win. The party secured 302 of the 542 seats, while Indian National Congress had 52 seats. Results from Arunachal Pradesh West constituency are yet to be announced.

In the key constituency of Varanasi, the seat from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi contested the elections and won, saw 4,037 voters (0.38 per cent) opting for NOTA.

The constituency of Kerala's Wayanad, where the Congress scion Rahul Gandhi won from, saw 2,155 voters (0.2 per cent) pressing the NOTA button.

Among other key constituencies where results had been declared, Amit Shah's Gandhinagar constituency saw 14,214 (1.11 per cent) NOTA votes, Ravi Shankar Prasad's Patna Sahib constituency saw 5,076 (0.52 per cent), and Gautam Gambhir's East Delhi constituency had 4,920 (0.39 per cent) such votes.&nbsp;

Bihar saw about 8.17 lakh voters opting for the None of The Above (NOTA) option - the highest in the country - while exercising their franchise in the 17th Lok Sabha polls.

Bihar saw about 8.17 lakh voters opting for the None of The Above (NOTA) option - the highest in the country - while exercising their franchise in the 17th Lok Sabha polls. According to the Election Commission's website, the NOTA vote share of Bihar stood at two per cent of the total votes polled in the state that has 40 Lok Sabha seats. Daman and Diu (1.7 per cent), Andhra Pradesh (1.49 per cent) and Chhattisgarh (1.44 per cent) followed in the list with 1.7 per cent, 1.49 per cent and 1.44 per cent votes, respectively, under NOTA. NOTA, which was introduced in India following a 2013 Supreme Court directive, allows voters to express their dissent by pressing a button saying none of the contestants is worthy of their vote. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, where it was introduced for the first time in any parliamentary election, around 60 lakh voters had opted for the NOTA option -- equalling about 1.1 per cent of the total votes polled during those elections across 543 seats. In the 2019 elections, the constituency of Gopalganj in Bihar saw 51,660 voters pressing the NOTA button (5.04 per cent), the highest in the country. Other constituencies in the state like Paschim Champaran (4.51 per cent), Nawada (3.73 per cent) and Jahanabad (3.37 per cent) also saw many voters opting for NOTA. While counting of votes continued till late night on Thursday, by evening, it was clear that the Bharatiya Janata Party had sealed electoral victory with a 300-plus win. The party secured 302 of the 542 seats, while Indian National Congress had 52 seats. Results from Arunachal Pradesh West constituency are yet to be announced. In the key constituency of Varanasi, the seat from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi contested the elections and won, saw 4,037 voters (0.38 per cent) opting for NOTA. The constituency of Kerala's Wayanad, where the Congress scion Rahul Gandhi won from, saw 2,155 voters (0.2 per cent) pressing the NOTA button. Among other key constituencies where results had been declared, Amit Shah's Gandhinagar constituency saw 14,214 (1.11 per cent) NOTA votes, Ravi Shankar Prasad's Patna Sahib constituency saw 5,076 (0.52 per cent), and Gautam Gambhir's East Delhi constituency had 4,920 (0.39 per cent) such votes.

Bihar sees highest number of NOTA votes, Gopalganj tops tally

At least 19 people were killed and several others injured in a fire at a coaching centre in Sarthana area of Surat in Gujarat. The coaching centre was located on the third and fourth floors of the Taxshila Complex.

Surat fire: 19 killed in coaching centre blaze; PM Modi assures assistance for victims

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/choking-back-tears-britains-theresa-may-says-goodbye-to-downing-street-221288">Choking back tears, Britain's Theresa May says goodbye to Downing Street</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May was barely able to finish her&nbsp;resignation&nbsp;speech on Friday, her voice breaking as she fought back tears when describing her "enduring gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve the country I love".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-fire-breaks-out-at-surat-building-8-killed-several-injured-221344">15 dead, several injured in major fire in Surat building</a>

At least 15 died following a major fire at a building in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening.&nbsp;Surat Police Commissioner Satish Kumar Mishra confirmed the death of 15 people adding that the toll might go up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-cabinet-passes-resolution-to-dissolve-16th-lok-sabha-221359">Union cabinet passes resolution to dissolve 16th Lok Sabha</a>

The Union Cabinet met on Friday and adopted a resolution for the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, setting in motion the process of constituting the new House and formation of the government after the conclusion of the general elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bomb-kills-at-least-one-during-friday-prayers-at-mosque-in-afghan-capital-ministry-221277">Bomb kills senior cleric during Friday prayers at Afghan mosque</a>

A bomb killed a senior Islamic preacher and wounded at least 16 devotees inside a mosque in the Afghan capital during Friday prayers, interior ministry officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-blames-us-for-failed-summit-urges-new-calculation-221306">North Korea blames US for failed summit, urges 'new calculation'</a>

North Korea&nbsp;said on Friday an "arbitrary and dishonest" US&nbsp;position had resulted in the failure to reach a deal during a second&nbsp;North Korea-US&nbsp;summit, warning the nuclear issue would never be resolved without a new approach.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Choking back tears, Britain's Theresa May says goodbye to Downing Street British Prime Minister Theresa May was barely able to finish her resignation speech on Friday, her voice breaking as she fought back tears when describing her "enduring gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve the country I love".

Choking back tears, Britain's Theresa May says goodbye to Downing Street British Prime Minister Theresa May was barely able to finish her resignation speech on Friday, her voice breaking as she fought back tears when describing her "enduring gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve the country I love". 15 dead, several injured in major fire in Surat building At least 15 died following a major fire at a building in Sarthana area of Surat, Gujarat on Friday evening. Surat Police Commissioner Satish Kumar Mishra confirmed the death of 15 people adding that the toll might go up. Union cabinet passes resolution to dissolve 16th Lok Sabha The Union Cabinet met on Friday and adopted a resolution for the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, setting in motion the process of constituting the new House and formation of the government after the conclusion of the general elections. Bomb kills senior cleric during Friday prayers at Afghan mosque A bomb killed a senior Islamic preacher and wounded at least 16 devotees inside a mosque in the Afghan capital during Friday prayers, interior ministry officials said. North Korea blames US for failed summit, urges 'new calculation' North Korea said on Friday an "arbitrary and dishonest" US position had resulted in the failure to reach a deal during a second North Korea-US summit, warning the nuclear issue would never be resolved without a new approach.

The Union Cabinet met on Friday and adopted a resolution for the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, setting in motion the process of constituting the new House and formation of the government after the conclusion of the general elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chaired the meeting, will meet President Ram Nath Kovind to handover the resolution that will pave the way for constituting the 17th Lok Sabha.

The Election Commission will then issue a formal notification constituting the new House.

It is speculated that the new government under Modi may be sworn-in on May 30.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will be held on May 25 when Modi will be formally elected leader of the coalition before the President will invite him to form the next government.

Earlier in the day, government spokesperson Sitanshu Kar had tweeted that "the Cabinet and Union Council of Ministers will meet this evening"

He said the dates for the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister and Union Council of Ministers are yet to be decided.

With the official count in the Lok Sabha elections over on Friday, the BJP has secured 303 seats, which is 22 more than it got in the 2014 elections and along with its allies, the NDA took its tally up to 352 in the 17th Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

The Union Cabinet met on Friday and adopted a resolution for the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, setting in motion the process of constituting the new House and formation of the government after the conclusion of the general elections.

The Union Cabinet met on Friday and adopted a resolution for the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, setting in motion the process of constituting the new House and formation of the government after the conclusion of the general elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chaired the meeting, will meet President Ram Nath Kovind to handover the resolution that will pave the way for constituting the 17th Lok Sabha. The Election Commission will then issue a formal notification constituting the new House. It is speculated that the new government under Modi may be sworn-in on May 30. Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will be held on May 25 when Modi will be formally elected leader of the coalition before the President will invite him to form the next government. Earlier in the day, government spokesperson Sitanshu Kar had tweeted that "the Cabinet and Union Council of Ministers will meet this evening" He said the dates for the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister and Union Council of Ministers are yet to be decided. With the official count in the Lok Sabha elections over on Friday, the BJP has secured 303 seats, which is 22 more than it got in the 2014 elections and along with its allies, the NDA took its tally up to 352 in the 17th Lok Sabha.

Union cabinet passes resolution to dissolve 16th Lok Sabha

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Union cabinet passes resolution to dissolve 16th Lok Sabha