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In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/the-modi-experiment-has-been-accepted-amit-shah-in-joint-press-conference-with-pm-modi-219410">Also Read: The Modi experiment has been accepted, says&nbsp;Amit Shah in joint press conference with PM Modi</a>

I have come straight from Madhya Pradesh to meet you, PM Modi told reporters in his first press conference.

"In 2009 and 2014, IPL had to be shifted out of the country due to the elections but when the government is functioning properly then everything runs together whether it is the children's exams, Easter, Ramnavami, Ramadan and others," the PM said.&nbsp;

"There are somethings we can say proudly, we inspire the world with the world's biggest democracy," the prime minister said, adding,"India has the potential to influence the world."&nbsp;

"I thank the the people of the country," he said after a long and gruelling campaign criss-crossing the country.

"Despite our diversity the fact that we are able to conduct a successful election should make India proud," the prime minister said. "The campaign was great and very positive."

"I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again after five years," PM Modi asserted. "It will happen after a long time in the country, our government will come to power with absolute majority for second consecutive time," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Last time the results were declared on May 16th and on 17th the betting market got a shock because BJP had come to power. Earlier all the bets were placed in favour of the Congress but on 17th May everything changed."

"Last mile delivery has been our hallmark, which is unprecedented in India's governance," PM Modi said.

"Not a single rally in which I was involved was cancelled, this points to organizational power and discipline," he said. 
&nbsp;

In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday.

In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday. Also Read: The Modi experiment has been accepted, says Amit Shah in joint press conference with PM Modi I have come straight from Madhya Pradesh to meet you, PM Modi told reporters in his first press conference. "In 2009 and 2014, IPL had to be shifted out of the country due to the elections but when the government is functioning properly then everything runs together whether it is the children's exams, Easter, Ramnavami, Ramadan and others," the PM said. "There are somethings we can say proudly, we inspire the world with the world's biggest democracy," the prime minister said, adding,"India has the potential to influence the world." "I thank the the people of the country," he said after a long and gruelling campaign criss-crossing the country. "Despite our diversity the fact that we are able to conduct a successful election should make India proud," the prime minister said. "The campaign was great and very positive." "I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again after five years," PM Modi asserted. "It will happen after a long time in the country, our government will come to power with absolute majority for second consecutive time," he said. "Last time the results were declared on May 16th and on 17th the betting market got a shock because BJP had come to power. Earlier all the bets were placed in favour of the Congress but on 17th May everything changed." "Last mile delivery has been our hallmark, which is unprecedented in India's governance," PM Modi said. "Not a single rally in which I was involved was cancelled, this points to organizational power and discipline," he said.

I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah

Two Indian climbers, including an Indian Army soldier, have died and another has gone missing in Nepal after one of them successfully scaled the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, the expedition organiser said Friday, days after two mountaineers from the country perished in the Himalayan nation.

Army soldier Ravi Thakar, 28, was found dead inside his tent at Camp IV on Mount Everest early Friday while Narayan Singh died at Camp IV on Thursday night when he was climbing down from the 8,485-meter Mount Makalu summit, world's fifth highest mountain.

Dipankar Ghos, 52, from Kolkata went missing from above Camp IV while returning from the Mount Makalu summit, said Mingma Sherpa, Chairman at Seven Summit Treks. 
A search team, which reached the area from where the climber is suspected to have gone missing, however, failed to trace him, Sherpa said.

Ghos climbed Mount Everest in 2011 and has also scaled Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Lhotse, Mount Manaslu and Mount Dhaulagiri among other peaks. 
Thakar died after he suffered from high altitude sickness.

"Fellow climbers found him dead inside the tent," Sherpa was quoted as saying by a Nepalese newspaper.

Ravi was part of an eight-member expedition led by renowned Irish climber Noel Richard Hanna.

He along with other members made it to the summit of Mount Everest on Thursday morning.

Another member of the same expedition, Seamus Sean Lawless from Ireland, slipped from the balcony area while descending from the summit point.

"Fate of the missing Irish climber is still unknown," Sherpa said.

"Indian climber Narayan Singh died in Mt Makalu. He died at camp 4 while descending the summit," Nepal Tourism Ministry official Mira Acharya told PTI.

Two Indian climbers from West Bengal - Biplab Baidya (48) and Kuntal Karar (46) - died in Nepal on Wednesday due to high altitude sickness near the summit of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak.

Another climber from Chile is missing from above Camp IV of Mount Kanchenjunga since Wednesday evening.

Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world. It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas 19-kilometer southeast of the 8,848-meter Mount Everest, on the border between Nepal and Tibet Autonomous Region, China.

Hundreds of climbers flock each year to Nepal - home to several of the world's highest mountains, to scale Himalayan peaks during the spring season that begins around March and ends in June.&nbsp;

Two Indian climbers, including an Indian Army soldier, have died and another has gone missing in Nepal after one of them successfully scaled the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, the expedition organiser said Friday, days after two mountaineers from the country perished in the Himalayan nation.

Two Indian climbers, including an Indian Army soldier, have died and another has gone missing in Nepal after one of them successfully scaled the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, the expedition organiser said Friday, days after two mountaineers from the country perished in the Himalayan nation. Army soldier Ravi Thakar, 28, was found dead inside his tent at Camp IV on Mount Everest early Friday while Narayan Singh died at Camp IV on Thursday night when he was climbing down from the 8,485-meter Mount Makalu summit, world's fifth highest mountain. Dipankar Ghos, 52, from Kolkata went missing from above Camp IV while returning from the Mount Makalu summit, said Mingma Sherpa, Chairman at Seven Summit Treks. A search team, which reached the area from where the climber is suspected to have gone missing, however, failed to trace him, Sherpa said. Ghos climbed Mount Everest in 2011 and has also scaled Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Lhotse, Mount Manaslu and Mount Dhaulagiri among other peaks. Thakar died after he suffered from high altitude sickness. "Fellow climbers found him dead inside the tent," Sherpa was quoted as saying by a Nepalese newspaper. Ravi was part of an eight-member expedition led by renowned Irish climber Noel Richard Hanna. He along with other members made it to the summit of Mount Everest on Thursday morning. Another member of the same expedition, Seamus Sean Lawless from Ireland, slipped from the balcony area while descending from the summit point. "Fate of the missing Irish climber is still unknown," Sherpa said. "Indian climber Narayan Singh died in Mt Makalu. He died at camp 4 while descending the summit," Nepal Tourism Ministry official Mira Acharya told PTI. Two Indian climbers from West Bengal - Biplab Baidya (48) and Kuntal Karar (46) - died in Nepal on Wednesday due to high altitude sickness near the summit of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak. Another climber from Chile is missing from above Camp IV of Mount Kanchenjunga since Wednesday evening. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world. It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas 19-kilometer southeast of the 8,848-meter Mount Everest, on the border between Nepal and Tibet Autonomous Region, China. Hundreds of climbers flock each year to Nepal - home to several of the world's highest mountains, to scale Himalayan peaks during the spring season that begins around March and ends in June.

Two more Indian mountaineers die, another missing in Nepal

Security forces have warned of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir this election season. The specific intelligence inputs say Srinagar and the Awantipora airbases can be targeted by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, adding that the plan comes in retaliation to the successful encounters conducted by the security forces in the state after the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

The security forces have been kept on high alert around these two strategically important airbases.

The alert has also been sounded on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway and military installations in the state as terrorists may try to target them on or before the occasion of the Islamic battle of Badr - the first military victory of the Prophet Muhammad - which according to the Islamic calendar falls on the 17th day of Ramzan; that day will fall on May 23 this year.

In the past too, terrorists have tried to carry out small scale attacks on the occasion by either lobbing grenades or opening fire at security forces in the Valley.

In October 2001, four Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed when they attempted to storm the Air Force base in Awantipora after a gunfight with the security forces. The attack was also the first one on a highly secure defence installation.

After the Pulwama suicide attack in February this year, the security on the Jammu-Srinagar highway has been tightened and several checkpoints have been erected to thwart any attempts of such attack.

Security forces after Pulwama suicide attack have conducted several successful operations, particularly in south Kashmir and eliminated top Jaish-e-Mohammed commanders. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-soldierterrorist-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-pulwama-219056">On Thursday, forces eliminated three Jaish terrorists in Pulwama district</a> which included its top commander Khalid, a resident of Pakistan.

Security forces have warned of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir this election season. The specific intelligence inputs say Srinagar and the Awantipora airbases can be targeted by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, adding that the plan comes in retaliation to the successful encounters conducted by the security forces in the state after the Pulwama attack.

Security forces have warned of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir this election season. The specific intelligence inputs say Srinagar and the Awantipora airbases can be targeted by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, adding that the plan comes in retaliation to the successful encounters conducted by the security forces in the state after the Pulwama attack. The security forces have been kept on high alert around these two strategically important airbases. The alert has also been sounded on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway and military installations in the state as terrorists may try to target them on or before the occasion of the Islamic battle of Badr - the first military victory of the Prophet Muhammad - which according to the Islamic calendar falls on the 17th day of Ramzan; that day will fall on May 23 this year. In the past too, terrorists have tried to carry out small scale attacks on the occasion by either lobbing grenades or opening fire at security forces in the Valley. In October 2001, four Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed when they attempted to storm the Air Force base in Awantipora after a gunfight with the security forces. The attack was also the first one on a highly secure defence installation. After the Pulwama suicide attack in February this year, the security on the Jammu-Srinagar highway has been tightened and several checkpoints have been erected to thwart any attempts of such attack. Security forces after Pulwama suicide attack have conducted several successful operations, particularly in south Kashmir and eliminated top Jaish-e-Mohammed commanders. On Thursday, forces eliminated three Jaish terrorists in Pulwama district which included its top commander Khalid, a resident of Pakistan.

Intel inputs warn of terrorist attack on airbases in Kashmir, security forces on high alert

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that he was committed to a ''grand'' statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue at the same spot.

Addressing an election rally in Mau, Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister alleged hooliganism by Trinamool Congress workers during party president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata.&nbsp;

''We saw hooliganism by TMC workers again during Bhai Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata. They vandalised Vidyasagar's statue. We are committed to Vidyasagar's vision and will install his grand statue at the same spot,'' he said.

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PM Modi in Mau: We saw hooliganism by TMC workers again during Bhai Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata, they vandalized Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue. We are committed to Vidyasagar's vision and will install his grand statue at the same spot <a href="https://t.co/avn1VN1QQ8">pic.twitter.com/avn1VN1QQ8</a>
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The prime minister said that a few months back he was forced to cut short his speech in Thakurnagar in West Bengal as TMC goons indulged in hooliganism. The situation was no different in West Medinipur earlier, he added.

Modi also slammed Mayawati for not condemning Mamata for targetting UP-Bihar Purvanchal people in West Bengal.&nbsp;

''I thought the way Mamata didi is targeting UP-Bihar Purvanchal people, calling them outsiders for her politics, Behen Mayawati will surely slam Mamata didi, but this did not happen,'' Modi said.

He also targetted SP-BSP for giving a ticket to an absconder in a rape case.

''SP-BSP has given ticket to a person who is an absconder in a rape case. SP has this history in UP, people know, but Behen ji will you seek votes for such candidates?'' Modi added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that he was committed to a ''grand'' statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue at the same spot. Addressing an election rally in Mau, Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister alleged hooliganism by Trinamool Congress workers during party president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that he was committed to a ''grand'' statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue at the same spot. Addressing an election rally in Mau, Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister alleged hooliganism by Trinamool Congress workers during party president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata. ''We saw hooliganism by TMC workers again during Bhai Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata. They vandalised Vidyasagar's statue. We are committed to Vidyasagar's vision and will install his grand statue at the same spot,'' he said. PM Modi in Mau: We saw hooliganism by TMC workers again during Bhai Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata, they vandalized Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue. We are committed to Vidyasagar's vision and will install his grand statue at the same spot pic.twitter.com/avn1VN1QQ8 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 16, 2019 × The prime minister said that a few months back he was forced to cut short his speech in Thakurnagar in West Bengal as TMC goons indulged in hooliganism. The situation was no different in West Medinipur earlier, he added. Modi also slammed Mayawati for not condemning Mamata for targetting UP-Bihar Purvanchal people in West Bengal. ''I thought the way Mamata didi is targeting UP-Bihar Purvanchal people, calling them outsiders for her politics, Behen Mayawati will surely slam Mamata didi, but this did not happen,'' Modi said. He also targetted SP-BSP for giving a ticket to an absconder in a rape case. ''SP-BSP has given ticket to a person who is an absconder in a rape case. SP has this history in UP, people know, but Behen ji will you seek votes for such candidates?'' Modi added.

Trinamool Congress goons vandalised Vidyasagar's statue, committed to 'grand' statue at same spot: PM Modi

India joined France, New Zealand, Canada and several other countries on Wednesday in launching a major initiative in Paris to combat terrorism and extremism online and secure the internet.The initiative — 'Christchurch call to action' -- was named after the New Zealand city where 51 people were killed in an attack on mosques, officials said.

The non-binding agreement 'Christchurch Call' has been signed by 18 leaders from around the globe, including British PM Theresa May and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.

Meanwhile, the United States declined to endorse a New Zealand-led effort to curb extremism online.

"While the United States is not currently in a position to join the endorsement, we continue to support the overall goals reflected in the call. We will continue to engage governments, industry and civil society to counter terrorist content on the internet," White House said in a statement.

The statement cited freedom of expression and freedom of the press as reasons to not join the agreement.

"We encourage technology companies to enforce their terms of service and community standards that forbid the use of their platforms for terrorist purposes. We continue to be proactive in our efforts to counter terrorist content online while also continuing to respect freedom of expression and freedom of the press," the statement read.

'Christchurch Call' was announced on Wednesday in Paris at a meeting of digital leaders of G7 nations, two months after the mass shooting on two mosques in Christchurch that left 51 people dead and about as many wounded. The summit was co-organised by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and French President Emmanuel Macron.

India joined France, New Zealand, Canada and several other countries on Wednesday in launching a major initiative in Paris to combat terrorism and extremism online and secure the internet.

India joined France, New Zealand, Canada and several other countries on Wednesday in launching a major initiative in Paris to combat terrorism and extremism online and secure the internet.The initiative — 'Christchurch call to action' -- was named after the New Zealand city where 51 people were killed in an attack on mosques, officials said. The non-binding agreement 'Christchurch Call' has been signed by 18 leaders from around the globe, including British PM Theresa May and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. Meanwhile, the United States declined to endorse a New Zealand-led effort to curb extremism online. "While the United States is not currently in a position to join the endorsement, we continue to support the overall goals reflected in the call. We will continue to engage governments, industry and civil society to counter terrorist content on the internet," White House said in a statement. The statement cited freedom of expression and freedom of the press as reasons to not join the agreement. "We encourage technology companies to enforce their terms of service and community standards that forbid the use of their platforms for terrorist purposes. We continue to be proactive in our efforts to counter terrorist content online while also continuing to respect freedom of expression and freedom of the press," the statement read. 'Christchurch Call' was announced on Wednesday in Paris at a meeting of digital leaders of G7 nations, two months after the mass shooting on two mosques in Christchurch that left 51 people dead and about as many wounded. The summit was co-organised by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and French President Emmanuel Macron.

'Christchurch call' to fight extremism online: India joins, US declines

An army man and three&nbsp;terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday.

The gunbattle started between the terrorists and the security forces in Dalipora area of Pulwama early this morning.

The forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

News agency ANI reported that the&nbsp;terrorists were&nbsp;holed up in a house in Dalipora.

According to intelligence inputs, a top self-styled commander of Hizbul Mujahideen was believed to be among those trapped in the security forces cordon.

Meanwhile, the internet has also been&nbsp;suspended in the area.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

An army man and three terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The gunbattle started between the terrorists and the security forces in Dalipora area of Pulwama early this morning.

An army man and three terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The gunbattle started between the terrorists and the security forces in Dalipora area of Pulwama early this morning. The forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. News agency ANI reported that the terrorists were holed up in a house in Dalipora. According to intelligence inputs, a top self-styled commander of Hizbul Mujahideen was believed to be among those trapped in the security forces cordon. Meanwhile, the internet has also been suspended in the area. (With inputs from agencies)

Soldier, 3 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create&nbsp;three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's&nbsp;security.

As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force.

This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia.&nbsp;

For now, the &nbsp;Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.&nbsp;

India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit.

&nbsp;The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands.&nbsp;

A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security. As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force. This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia. For now, the Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit. The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands. A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India’s defence set to form new special forces division

In a first in the country, campaigning for nine Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal going to polls in the last phase came to an end at 10 pm on Thursday, 20 hours before the scheduled time, as per orders of the Election Commission.

Polling will be held in nine constituencies of south Bengal on Sunday where an electorate of 1,49,63,064 will decide the fate of 111 candidates, the EC said.

Seats in which elections will be held on Sunday are Kolkata North and Kolkata South, Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, Jaynagar (SC) and Mathurapur (SC) seats.

In a first such action in India's electoral history, the Election Commission had Wednesday ordered campaigning in the nine West Bengal constituencies to end at 10 pm on Thursday, instead of 6 pm on Friday, in the wake of violence between the BJP and the TMC in the city during Amit Shah's roadshow.

A total 710 companies of central forces are being deployed by the EC to cover almost all polling booths of the nine seats to ensure free and fair voting on Sunday, officials in the poll panel said.

The nine seats are spread across the three districts of Kolkata, South and North 24 Parganas. Eight seats, barring the Jadavpur seat, will see a four-cornered contest between the Trinamool Congress, the BJP, the Congress and the Left Front.

Jadavpur will witness a triangular fight as the Congress has not put up its candidate in the seat.

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The high-voltage campaign saw poll meetings by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cctv-footage-of-vandalisation-of-ishwar-chandra-vidyasagars-statute-should-be-released-pm-modi-219213">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Congress leader Sachin Pilot and West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congres supremo Mamata Banerjee.

The prime minister held two poll meetings on the last day at Mathurapur in South 24 Parganas and Dum Dum in North 24 Parganas, while Banerjee held two road shows at Behala and Jadavpur areas of the city and two poll meetings at Mathurapur and Diamond Harbour.

Shah's roadshow in the city on Tuesday saw violence and destruction of social reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's bust in a college in north Kolkata named after him.

In the Dum Dum seat, the BJP has fielded Samik Bhattacharya against sitting TMC MP Saugata Ray. Left Front major CPI(M) has nominated Nepaldeb Bhattacharya, while the Congress announced the name of Saurav Saha.

In Barasat, TMC MP Kakoli Ghoshdastidar is contesting against BJP's Mrinal Kanti Debnath. The Congress has nominated Subrata Dutta and Left Front Constituent All India Forward Bloc Haripada Biswas.

Basirhat Lok Sabha seat will see TMC's celebrity candidate Nusrat Jahan Ruhi locking horns with BJP's Sayantan Basu. The Congress has nominated Quazi Abdur Rahim and the Left Front constituent CPI, Pallab Sengupta.

In Jayanagar(SC) seat TMC's Pratima Mondal will contest against Dr Ashok Kandary of BJP. The Congress has fielded Tapan Mondal and Left Front constituent RSP Subhas Naskar.

Choudhury Mohan Jatua is the TMC candidate from Mathurapur (SC) seat against BJP's Shyama Prasad Halder. The Congress has nominated Krittibas Sardar and the CPI(M) has fielded Dr Sarat Chandra Haldar for the seat.

In Diamond Harbour, sitting MP Abhishek Banerjee, who is the nephew of TMC supremo and considered the number two in the party, is seeking re-election from the seat. He will contest against BJP's Nilanjan Roy. The CPI(M) has nominated Fuad Halim and the Congress Soumya Aich Roy for the seat.

In the Jadavpur seat, TMC's celebrity candidate Mimi Chakraborty will contest against Anupam Hazra of the BJP. The CPI(M) has fielded senior leader Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya.

Mala Roy is the TMC candidate from Kolkata South seat against BJP's Chandra Kumar Bose. The CPI(M) has nominated Nandini Mukherjee and the Congress has fielded Mita Chakraborty.

In Kolkata North, Sudip Bandyopadhyay will contest against Rahul Sinha, the BJP national secretary. The CPI(M) has fielded Kaninika Bose and the Congress, Syed Shahid Imam.

The polling personnel have left for the 17,042 booths in the nine seats, the officials said.

Besides general election observers and expenditure observers, the poll panel has for the first time deployed a special police observer and a special observer.

In another first, VVPAT will be used in all the polling booths along with the EVMs, EC officials said.&nbsp;

In a first in the country, campaigning for nine Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal going to polls in the last phase came to an end at 10 pm on Thursday, 20 hours before the scheduled time, as per orders of the Election Commission.

In a first in the country, campaigning for nine Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal going to polls in the last phase came to an end at 10 pm on Thursday, 20 hours before the scheduled time, as per orders of the Election Commission. Polling will be held in nine constituencies of south Bengal on Sunday where an electorate of 1,49,63,064 will decide the fate of 111 candidates, the EC said. Seats in which elections will be held on Sunday are Kolkata North and Kolkata South, Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, Jaynagar (SC) and Mathurapur (SC) seats. In a first such action in India's electoral history, the Election Commission had Wednesday ordered campaigning in the nine West Bengal constituencies to end at 10 pm on Thursday, instead of 6 pm on Friday, in the wake of violence between the BJP and the TMC in the city during Amit Shah's roadshow. A total 710 companies of central forces are being deployed by the EC to cover almost all polling booths of the nine seats to ensure free and fair voting on Sunday, officials in the poll panel said. The nine seats are spread across the three districts of Kolkata, South and North 24 Parganas. Eight seats, barring the Jadavpur seat, will see a four-cornered contest between the Trinamool Congress, the BJP, the Congress and the Left Front. Jadavpur will witness a triangular fight as the Congress has not put up its candidate in the seat. × The high-voltage campaign saw poll meetings by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Congress leader Sachin Pilot and West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congres supremo Mamata Banerjee. The prime minister held two poll meetings on the last day at Mathurapur in South 24 Parganas and Dum Dum in North 24 Parganas, while Banerjee held two road shows at Behala and Jadavpur areas of the city and two poll meetings at Mathurapur and Diamond Harbour. Shah's roadshow in the city on Tuesday saw violence and destruction of social reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's bust in a college in north Kolkata named after him. In the Dum Dum seat, the BJP has fielded Samik Bhattacharya against sitting TMC MP Saugata Ray. Left Front major CPI(M) has nominated Nepaldeb Bhattacharya, while the Congress announced the name of Saurav Saha. In Barasat, TMC MP Kakoli Ghoshdastidar is contesting against BJP's Mrinal Kanti Debnath. The Congress has nominated Subrata Dutta and Left Front Constituent All India Forward Bloc Haripada Biswas. Basirhat Lok Sabha seat will see TMC's celebrity candidate Nusrat Jahan Ruhi locking horns with BJP's Sayantan Basu. The Congress has nominated Quazi Abdur Rahim and the Left Front constituent CPI, Pallab Sengupta. In Jayanagar(SC) seat TMC's Pratima Mondal will contest against Dr Ashok Kandary of BJP. The Congress has fielded Tapan Mondal and Left Front constituent RSP Subhas Naskar. Choudhury Mohan Jatua is the TMC candidate from Mathurapur (SC) seat against BJP's Shyama Prasad Halder. The Congress has nominated Krittibas Sardar and the CPI(M) has fielded Dr Sarat Chandra Haldar for the seat. In Diamond Harbour, sitting MP Abhishek Banerjee, who is the nephew of TMC supremo and considered the number two in the party, is seeking re-election from the seat. He will contest against BJP's Nilanjan Roy. The CPI(M) has nominated Fuad Halim and the Congress Soumya Aich Roy for the seat. In the Jadavpur seat, TMC's celebrity candidate Mimi Chakraborty will contest against Anupam Hazra of the BJP. The CPI(M) has fielded senior leader Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya. Mala Roy is the TMC candidate from Kolkata South seat against BJP's Chandra Kumar Bose. The CPI(M) has nominated Nandini Mukherjee and the Congress has fielded Mita Chakraborty. In Kolkata North, Sudip Bandyopadhyay will contest against Rahul Sinha, the BJP national secretary. The CPI(M) has fielded Kaninika Bose and the Congress, Syed Shahid Imam. The polling personnel have left for the 17,042 booths in the nine seats, the officials said. Besides general election observers and expenditure observers, the poll panel has for the first time deployed a special police observer and a special observer. In another first, VVPAT will be used in all the polling booths along with the EVMs, EC officials said.

Campaigning ends for seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls in Bengal

A Delhi court Thursday allowed former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law Rajiv Kochhar, a suspect in a bank loan fraud and money laundering case, to travel abroad for 10 days.

Special Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna allowed Rajiv to travel to New York on a personal bond of Rs 10 lakh and directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to suspend the look out circular (LOC) till then.

The court kept his application, seeking cancellation of LOC, for hearing on June 3 after ED's special public prosecutor Nitesh Rana said the agency needed time to file a detailed reply on the issue.

Chanda and her husband Deepak along with Rajiv have been questioned by the ED which is probing the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

In his application, moved by senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, Rajiv said his "younger son is studying in New York University and has his 'graduating ceremony' on May 21 and 22 in New York, USA. The occasion marks an important and significant day/event in the life of the son and the applicant..."

Rajiv, founder of Singapore-based Avista Advisory, informed the court that the CBI has already cancelled the LOC issued against him.

He told the court that he has cooperated in the probe and further undertakes to assist the agency in future as and when required.

He further claimed that he and his family were estranged from his brother Deepak and sister-in-law Chanda due to a family fall out because of which the applicant has started his own independent business and has no business or personal connection, of any nature, either with them or any of their companies.

ED registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda, Deepak, Videocon promoter Venugopal Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group, the probe agency's advocate A R Aditya said.&nbsp;

The action was based on an FIR registered by the CBI.

Rajiv has been questioned by the CBI as well in the same case in the past. He was asked by CBI sleuths about the help he had extended to Videocon in relation to a loan from ICICI Bank, which was part of a Rs 400-billion credit given by a consortium of 20 banks to the group's main promoter, Dhoot.

The searches were conducted at the premises of Chanda, her family and Dhoot in Mumbai and Aurangabad.

CBI has named the three as also Dhoot's companies -- Videocon International Electronics Ltd (VIEL) and Videocon Industries Limited (VIL) -- in its case.&nbsp;It also named Supreme Energy, a company founded by Dhoot, and NuPower Renewables, a company controlled by Deepak, in the FIR.

The CBI alleged that Dhoot had invested in Nupower through his firm Supreme Energy in a quid pro quo to loans cleared by ICICI Bank after Chanda took over as the CEO of the bank on May 1, 2009.

The ownership of Nupower and Supreme Energy changed hands through a complex web of shared transactions between Deepak and Dhoot, the CBI alleged.

During its preliminary enquiry, the CBI found that six loans worth Rs 1,875 crore were sanctioned to the Videocon Group and companies associated with it between June, 2009 and October, 2011 in alleged violation of laid-down policies of ICICI Bank, which have now become part of the probe.

"Existing outstanding in the accounts of these private group companies were adjusted in Rupee Term Loan of Rs 1,730 crore sanctioned by ICICI Bank under refinance of domestic debt under consortium arrangement on April 26, 2012," the CBI had said.

The loans were declared non-performing assets in 2012, causing a loss of Rs 1,730 crore to the bank, it alleged.&nbsp;

The ED, the sources said, is also probing at least two other instances of loans given by ICICI Bank (during Chanda Kochhar's tenure) to Gujarat-based pharmaceutical firm Sterling Biotech and to Bhushan Steel group.

The agency is investigating these two instances of alleged bank loan fraud under the PMLA. 
&nbsp;

A Delhi court Thursday allowed former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law Rajiv Kochhar, a suspect in a bank loan fraud and money laundering case, to travel abroad for 10 days.

A Delhi court Thursday allowed former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law Rajiv Kochhar, a suspect in a bank loan fraud and money laundering case, to travel abroad for 10 days. Special Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna allowed Rajiv to travel to New York on a personal bond of Rs 10 lakh and directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to suspend the look out circular (LOC) till then. The court kept his application, seeking cancellation of LOC, for hearing on June 3 after ED's special public prosecutor Nitesh Rana said the agency needed time to file a detailed reply on the issue. Chanda and her husband Deepak along with Rajiv have been questioned by the ED which is probing the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). In his application, moved by senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, Rajiv said his "younger son is studying in New York University and has his 'graduating ceremony' on May 21 and 22 in New York, USA. The occasion marks an important and significant day/event in the life of the son and the applicant..." Rajiv, founder of Singapore-based Avista Advisory, informed the court that the CBI has already cancelled the LOC issued against him. He told the court that he has cooperated in the probe and further undertakes to assist the agency in future as and when required. He further claimed that he and his family were estranged from his brother Deepak and sister-in-law Chanda due to a family fall out because of which the applicant has started his own independent business and has no business or personal connection, of any nature, either with them or any of their companies. ED registered a criminal case under the PMLA early this year against Chanda, Deepak, Videocon promoter Venugopal Dhoot and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 1,875-crore loans by ICICI Bank to the corporate group, the probe agency's advocate A R Aditya said. The action was based on an FIR registered by the CBI. Rajiv has been questioned by the CBI as well in the same case in the past. He was asked by CBI sleuths about the help he had extended to Videocon in relation to a loan from ICICI Bank, which was part of a Rs 400-billion credit given by a consortium of 20 banks to the group's main promoter, Dhoot. The searches were conducted at the premises of Chanda, her family and Dhoot in Mumbai and Aurangabad. CBI has named the three as also Dhoot's companies -- Videocon International Electronics Ltd (VIEL) and Videocon Industries Limited (VIL) -- in its case. It also named Supreme Energy, a company founded by Dhoot, and NuPower Renewables, a company controlled by Deepak, in the FIR. The CBI alleged that Dhoot had invested in Nupower through his firm Supreme Energy in a quid pro quo to loans cleared by ICICI Bank after Chanda took over as the CEO of the bank on May 1, 2009. The ownership of Nupower and Supreme Energy changed hands through a complex web of shared transactions between Deepak and Dhoot, the CBI alleged. During its preliminary enquiry, the CBI found that six loans worth Rs 1,875 crore were sanctioned to the Videocon Group and companies associated with it between June, 2009 and October, 2011 in alleged violation of laid-down policies of ICICI Bank, which have now become part of the probe. "Existing outstanding in the accounts of these private group companies were adjusted in Rupee Term Loan of Rs 1,730 crore sanctioned by ICICI Bank under refinance of domestic debt under consortium arrangement on April 26, 2012," the CBI had said. The loans were declared non-performing assets in 2012, causing a loss of Rs 1,730 crore to the bank, it alleged. The ED, the sources said, is also probing at least two other instances of loans given by ICICI Bank (during Chanda Kochhar's tenure) to Gujarat-based pharmaceutical firm Sterling Biotech and to Bhushan Steel group. The agency is investigating these two instances of alleged bank loan fraud under the PMLA.

Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law allowed to visit US by Delhi court

The Election Commission's order curtailing the time period for campaigning in West Bengal drew sharp criticism from opposition parties, with the Congress accusing the poll body of losing its credibility and independence and wondering if the model code has become "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cctv-footage-of-vandalisation-of-ishwar-chandra-vidyasagars-statute-should-be-released-pm-modi-219213">Modi code of misconduct</a>".

The Congress also said time has come to review the process of the poll panel's appointment as it has "completely abdicated" its constitutional duty and has given a "parting gift" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

With leaders of various parties openly attacking the EC over its order, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bengal-has-money-to-make-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-hits-back-at-modi-219155">Mamata Banerjee</a> emerged as a "rallying point" for the opposition, as leaders like Mayawati, Akhilesh Yadav, M K Stalin and N Chandrababu Naidu stood behind her and the TMC chief thanking them.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the EC order curtailing campaigning in West Bengal by 20 hours is a "dark spot" on India's democracy and institutions like the poll panel.

In the first such action in India's electoral history, the poll panel on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to end campaigning in nine West Bengal constituencies at 10 pm on Thursday, a day before its scheduled deadline, following violence between BJP and TMC workers in Kolkata.

"The Election Commission has completely abdicated its constitutional duty under Article 324 to ensure a level playing field, besides negating the due process under Article 14 and 21 of India's Constitution," Surjewala told reporters in a blistering attack against the Election Commission.

"Time has come to review the process of appointment of Election Commission. Should it only remain an appendage to the ruling dispensation or is it a constitutional body which is so intrinsically important to our democracy that its appointment requires to be mandated and tapered through a fair, transparent process like in many other cases," he asked.&nbsp;

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The debate, in his view, must happen for democracy to thrive and survive and the entire process of appointment of the Election Commission needs to be reviewed.

"Has the MCC now become 'Modi Code of Misconduct' to be applied to BJP's political opponents, with total immunity for the PM and the BJP president," he asked.&nbsp;

The Congress is a responsible political party and has never cast unwarranted aspersions on the actions of constitutional bodies, Surjewala said. 
"But we are deeply saddened to say that Election Commission of India has completely lost its independence and abdicated its constitutional integrity," the Congress leader added.&nbsp;

"Modi ji's chair, the prestige and independence of the Election Commission and democracy, all three are now in danger on account of the actions that we have seen in the last 24 hours. People are the final masters in this country and when all else fails, democracy prevails," he said.

Rallying behind Banerjee, BSP supremo Mayawati accused Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah of targeting her as part of a conspiracy and said it reflected a "dangerous attitude".

Mayawati claimed the poll body acted under pressure of the central government.&nbsp;

Coming down hard on the poll body, she said, "It is unfortunate that the Election Commission acted under pressure of the Centre in curtailing electioneering in West Bengal while the prime minister could address two rallies today."

It is now clear that under the present Chief Election Commissioner, Lok Sabha elections are not being held in a free and fair manner, Mayawati charged.&nbsp; 
The DMK in Tamil Nadu threw its weight behind the TMC.

DMK President Stalin alleged the EC has a different set of rules for the "ruling party". He tweeted, "Ban on campaign in nine constituencies in West Bengal. The EC has one set of rules for the Opposition and another for the ruling party. Highly condemnable."&nbsp;

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "The BJP can team up with the EC in West Bengal, they can have a tailor-made campaign designed to fragment and polarise the electorate, they can have all their model code violations overlooked. None of it will matter because on the 23rd Mamata didi will sweep West Bengal."

Surjewala said instead of punishing the goons and hooligans of the BJP led by Shah, the Election Commission is punishing democracy, per se. It has created a fear psychosis by admitting ECI's inability to hold a free and fair poll. The order of the ECI is an "unpardonable betrayal" of the Constitution, he said.&nbsp;

Every citizen is questioning the independence, impartiality, objectivity and fairness of the Election Commission, he said and asked whether the Election Commission has become "a mere helpless pawn in the hands of Modi-Shah duo".

"Does the EC now take orders from the BJP headquarters rather than from the mandate of the Constitution," Surjewala asked.

"As democracy is under attack from the ruling BJP, time for EC to submit before people of India, instead of being stifled by PM Modi...," he said.

"... Wasn't EC's order aimed at solely giving a free pass to the two public rallies of Narendra Modi being organised today afternoon and evening at Mathurapur and Dum Dum? Can there be a more glaring instance EC's being muzzled into submission by the ruling party," he asked.&nbsp;

The Election Commission's order curtailing the time period for campaigning in West Bengal drew sharp criticism from opposition parties, with the Congress accusing the poll body of losing its credibility and independence and wondering if the model code has become "Modi code of misconduct".

The Election Commission's order curtailing the time period for campaigning in West Bengal drew sharp criticism from opposition parties, with the Congress accusing the poll body of losing its credibility and independence and wondering if the model code has become "Modi code of misconduct". The Congress also said time has come to review the process of the poll panel's appointment as it has "completely abdicated" its constitutional duty and has given a "parting gift" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With leaders of various parties openly attacking the EC over its order, Mamata Banerjee emerged as a "rallying point" for the opposition, as leaders like Mayawati, Akhilesh Yadav, M K Stalin and N Chandrababu Naidu stood behind her and the TMC chief thanking them. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the EC order curtailing campaigning in West Bengal by 20 hours is a "dark spot" on India's democracy and institutions like the poll panel. In the first such action in India's electoral history, the poll panel on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to end campaigning in nine West Bengal constituencies at 10 pm on Thursday, a day before its scheduled deadline, following violence between BJP and TMC workers in Kolkata. "The Election Commission has completely abdicated its constitutional duty under Article 324 to ensure a level playing field, besides negating the due process under Article 14 and 21 of India's Constitution," Surjewala told reporters in a blistering attack against the Election Commission. "Time has come to review the process of appointment of Election Commission. Should it only remain an appendage to the ruling dispensation or is it a constitutional body which is so intrinsically important to our democracy that its appointment requires to be mandated and tapered through a fair, transparent process like in many other cases," he asked. × The debate, in his view, must happen for democracy to thrive and survive and the entire process of appointment of the Election Commission needs to be reviewed. "Has the MCC now become 'Modi Code of Misconduct' to be applied to BJP's political opponents, with total immunity for the PM and the BJP president," he asked. The Congress is a responsible political party and has never cast unwarranted aspersions on the actions of constitutional bodies, Surjewala said. "But we are deeply saddened to say that Election Commission of India has completely lost its independence and abdicated its constitutional integrity," the Congress leader added. "Modi ji's chair, the prestige and independence of the Election Commission and democracy, all three are now in danger on account of the actions that we have seen in the last 24 hours. People are the final masters in this country and when all else fails, democracy prevails," he said. Rallying behind Banerjee, BSP supremo Mayawati accused Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah of targeting her as part of a conspiracy and said it reflected a "dangerous attitude". Mayawati claimed the poll body acted under pressure of the central government. Coming down hard on the poll body, she said, "It is unfortunate that the Election Commission acted under pressure of the Centre in curtailing electioneering in West Bengal while the prime minister could address two rallies today." It is now clear that under the present Chief Election Commissioner, Lok Sabha elections are not being held in a free and fair manner, Mayawati charged. The DMK in Tamil Nadu threw its weight behind the TMC. DMK President Stalin alleged the EC has a different set of rules for the "ruling party". He tweeted, "Ban on campaign in nine constituencies in West Bengal. The EC has one set of rules for the Opposition and another for the ruling party. Highly condemnable." National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "The BJP can team up with the EC in West Bengal, they can have a tailor-made campaign designed to fragment and polarise the electorate, they can have all their model code violations overlooked. None of it will matter because on the 23rd Mamata didi will sweep West Bengal." Surjewala said instead of punishing the goons and hooligans of the BJP led by Shah, the Election Commission is punishing democracy, per se. It has created a fear psychosis by admitting ECI's inability to hold a free and fair poll. The order of the ECI is an "unpardonable betrayal" of the Constitution, he said. Every citizen is questioning the independence, impartiality, objectivity and fairness of the Election Commission, he said and asked whether the Election Commission has become "a mere helpless pawn in the hands of Modi-Shah duo". "Does the EC now take orders from the BJP headquarters rather than from the mandate of the Constitution," Surjewala asked. "As democracy is under attack from the ruling BJP, time for EC to submit before people of India, instead of being stifled by PM Modi...," he said. "... Wasn't EC's order aimed at solely giving a free pass to the two public rallies of Narendra Modi being organised today afternoon and evening at Mathurapur and Dum Dum? Can there be a more glaring instance EC's being muzzled into submission by the ruling party," he asked.

Election Commission draws flak from opposition parties over West Bengal order; Congress says its lost credibility

Commandos of India's premier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsg-commandos-to-undertake-regular-yoga-psychological-tests-31359">counter-terror force NSG</a> on Thursday created history as they scaled the Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, in their maiden attempt, a senior official said.&nbsp;

A seven-member team of the National Security Guard (NSG), led by Lt Col J P Kumar, successfully unfurled the Indian flag at the 8,848-metre tall peak at about 7am on Thursday, the official said.

"The team adopted the south eastern approach via Solukhumbhu region of Nepal," the force said in a statement.

NSG Director General Sudeep Lakhtakia congratulated the team, saying "Everest demands doggedness, tenacity, perseverance, courage and multiple skills to survive in toughest conditions. The NSG commandos have all these qualities".

The 12-member team was flagged off by Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on March 29. Five other members of the team are likely to summit the peak on May 22 as per schedule, according to the statement.

This is the first expedition of the NSG to the Mount Everest and the force has been preparing for it since 2017, the official said.

The NSG, called as the 'black cats', was raised in 1984 as a counter-terror and counter-hijack contingency force. It has five hubs in the country to undertake these operations.

Commandos of India's premier counter-terror force NSG on Thursday created history as they scaled the Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, in their maiden attempt, a senior official said.

Commandos of India's premier counter-terror force NSG on Thursday created history as they scaled the Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, in their maiden attempt, a senior official said. A seven-member team of the National Security Guard (NSG), led by Lt Col J P Kumar, successfully unfurled the Indian flag at the 8,848-metre tall peak at about 7am on Thursday, the official said. "The team adopted the south eastern approach via Solukhumbhu region of Nepal," the force said in a statement. NSG Director General Sudeep Lakhtakia congratulated the team, saying "Everest demands doggedness, tenacity, perseverance, courage and multiple skills to survive in toughest conditions. The NSG commandos have all these qualities". The 12-member team was flagged off by Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on March 29. Five other members of the team are likely to summit the peak on May 22 as per schedule, according to the statement. This is the first expedition of the NSG to the Mount Everest and the force has been preparing for it since 2017, the official said. The NSG, called as the 'black cats', was raised in 1984 as a counter-terror and counter-hijack contingency force. It has five hubs in the country to undertake these operations.

India's counter-terror NSG commandos scale Mount Everest

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-take-revenge-for-vandalisation-of-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-banerjee-219188">evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue</a>.

Addressing a rally here, Modi said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, "frustrated over her imminent defeat", has threatened to put him behind bars after the general elections.

"TMC goons are spreading violence, and they vandalised the statue of Vidyasagar. The way the state government erased proof of the Narada and Sarada scams, in the same manner, it is trying to remove evidence in this incident," he said.

Those involved in the act of vandalising the statue should be given exemplary punishment, the PM insisted.

Police officers are trying to wipe out the evidence of the incident in order to save the TMC goons, Modi alleged.

"The TMC and their goons have made Bengal a hell. Those involved in this act, in this sin should be given strong punishment," he said.

Kolkata witnessed widespread violence on Tuesday at BJP president Amit Shah's massive roadshow in the city. A bust of 19th century Bengali reformer and polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was desecrated during clashes.

"Didi has lost her cool in the face of imminent defeat and has become frustrated, and is now threatening to put me behind bars," Modi said.

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Taking a dig at Banerjee's nephew, Abhishek, the prime minister said the "aunt-nephew 'jodi' is only interested in looting Bengal and running the 'tolabaji' syndicate (extortion racket)".

The days of the 'bua-bhatija' (aunt-nephew) government in the state are numbered going by the mood of the people, Modi said, adding, the BJP will win the majority of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and over 300 seats in the country.

Abhishek Banerjee, who is considered the number two in the TMC, is seeking re-election from the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat.

"Democracy has been maligned by violence in Bengal. The TMC has problem with Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja and even chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' is a crime in Bengal," the PM said.

It is the BJP which is fighting to restore democracy in Bengal, Modi asserted and claimed that the chief minister had even threatened to capture its party offices in the state, he said.

"You and your party are now known for grabbing land. Because of this, people have lost confidence in you and have made up their mind to defeat you," Modi said.

Dubbing Banerjee as "sticker Didi", Modi said she is not interested in the development of Bengal, but keen on putting her own stickers on central projects. 
He said the TMC supremo does not have faith in the country's prime minister, but she doesn't hesitate from praising the prime minister of Pakistan.

In an apparent reference to the recent arrest of BJP youth wing activist Priyanka Sharma, who walked out of jail on Wednesday after being arrested for posting a morphed picture of Banerjee on Facebook, Modi said she puts saffron party workers behind bars, but lets TMC goons out in the open to "torture the masses".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the West Bengal Police, in connivance with the state government, was trying to wipe out evidence of the desecration of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue. Addressing a rally here, Modi said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, "frustrated over her imminent defeat", has threatened to put him behind bars after the general elections. "TMC goons are spreading violence, and they vandalised the statue of Vidyasagar. The way the state government erased proof of the Narada and Sarada scams, in the same manner, it is trying to remove evidence in this incident," he said. Those involved in the act of vandalising the statue should be given exemplary punishment, the PM insisted. Police officers are trying to wipe out the evidence of the incident in order to save the TMC goons, Modi alleged. "The TMC and their goons have made Bengal a hell. Those involved in this act, in this sin should be given strong punishment," he said. Kolkata witnessed widespread violence on Tuesday at BJP president Amit Shah's massive roadshow in the city. A bust of 19th century Bengali reformer and polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was desecrated during clashes. "Didi has lost her cool in the face of imminent defeat and has become frustrated, and is now threatening to put me behind bars," Modi said. × Taking a dig at Banerjee's nephew, Abhishek, the prime minister said the "aunt-nephew 'jodi' is only interested in looting Bengal and running the 'tolabaji' syndicate (extortion racket)". The days of the 'bua-bhatija' (aunt-nephew) government in the state are numbered going by the mood of the people, Modi said, adding, the BJP will win the majority of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and over 300 seats in the country. Abhishek Banerjee, who is considered the number two in the TMC, is seeking re-election from the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat. "Democracy has been maligned by violence in Bengal. The TMC has problem with Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja and even chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' is a crime in Bengal," the PM said. It is the BJP which is fighting to restore democracy in Bengal, Modi asserted and claimed that the chief minister had even threatened to capture its party offices in the state, he said. "You and your party are now known for grabbing land. Because of this, people have lost confidence in you and have made up their mind to defeat you," Modi said. Dubbing Banerjee as "sticker Didi", Modi said she is not interested in the development of Bengal, but keen on putting her own stickers on central projects. He said the TMC supremo does not have faith in the country's prime minister, but she doesn't hesitate from praising the prime minister of Pakistan. In an apparent reference to the recent arrest of BJP youth wing activist Priyanka Sharma, who walked out of jail on Wednesday after being arrested for posting a morphed picture of Banerjee on Facebook, Modi said she puts saffron party workers behind bars, but lets TMC goons out in the open to "torture the masses".

Police trying to wipe out evidence of statue desecration: Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-national-emergency-bars-huawei-from-us-telecommunications-networks-219053">Trump declares national emergency, bars Huawei from US telecommunications networks</a>

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order declaring a&nbsp;national emergency&nbsp;and barring US&nbsp;companies from using telecommunications equipment made by firms posing a national security risk, paving the way for a ban on doing business with China`s Huawei Technologies Co.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alabama-governor-signs-nations-strictest-abortion-ban-219055">Alabama governor signs nation's strictest abortion ban</a>

Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a&nbsp;bill to ban nearly all abortions in the state, even in cases of rape and incest, in political conservatives' latest challenge to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court decision establishing a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-election-commission-asks-twitter-india-to-remove-all-tweets-related-to-exit-polls-219060">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission asks Twitter India to remove all tweets related to exit polls</a>

The Election Commission is learnt to have asked Twitter to take down an exit poll-related tweet. The EC's move came after it received certain "complaint", sources aware of the development said Thursday, adding that the user later removed the tweet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-soldierterrorist-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-pulwama-219056">Soldier, 2 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a>

An army man and two Jaish-e-Mohammed&nbsp;terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The gunbattle started between the terrorists and the security forces in Dalipora area of Pulwama early this morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-restricts-live-feature-white-house-snubs-call-for-new-zealand-shooting-response-219062">Facebook restricts Live feature, White House snubs call for New Zealand shooting response</a>

Facebook announced steps on Wednesday to&nbsp;temporarily block users who break its rules from broadcasting live video, in the wake of an international outcry after a&nbsp;gunman killed 51 people in New Zealand&nbsp;last month and streamed the attack live on his page.

&nbsp;

Trump declares national emergency, bars Huawei from US telecommunications networks President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and barring US companies from using telecommunications equipment made by firms posing a national security risk, paving the way for a ban on doing business with China`s Huawei Technologies Co.

Trump declares national emergency, bars Huawei from US telecommunications networks President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and barring US companies from using telecommunications equipment made by firms posing a national security risk, paving the way for a ban on doing business with China`s Huawei Technologies Co. Alabama governor signs nation's strictest abortion ban Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a bill to ban nearly all abortions in the state, even in cases of rape and incest, in political conservatives' latest challenge to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court decision establishing a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy. Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission asks Twitter India to remove all tweets related to exit polls The Election Commission is learnt to have asked Twitter to take down an exit poll-related tweet. The EC's move came after it received certain "complaint", sources aware of the development said Thursday, adding that the user later removed the tweet. Soldier, 2 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama An army man and two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists were killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. The gunbattle started between the terrorists and the security forces in Dalipora area of Pulwama early this morning. Facebook restricts Live feature, White House snubs call for New Zealand shooting response Facebook announced steps on Wednesday to temporarily block users who break its rules from broadcasting live video, in the wake of an international outcry after a gunman killed 51 people in New Zealand last month and streamed the attack live on his page.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce verdict on Friday on the CBI application seeking vacation of the order which granted interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha chit fund scam.

The CBI had told the apex court that it wanted custodial interrogation of Kumar, who was earlier heading West Bengal Police SIT probing chit fund scam, as there was prima facie evidence of his allegedly trying to destroy or tamper with evidence and "shield high and mighty" in the case.

However, Kumar's counsel had countered CBI's submissions and told a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the agency wanted his custodial interrogation "just to humiliate" him and CBI should not be allowed to abuse the process of law.

Kumar's counsel had told the bench that CBI's application seeking custodial interrogation of the IPS officer was a "mala fide exercise".

Kumar was earlier heading the West Bengal Police's special investigation team (SIT) probing the chit fund scam. The apex court had in May 2014 directed the CBI to investigate the case.

The apex court, on February 5, had granted protection from arrest to Kumar while directing him to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate into the investigation of cases arising out of the scam.

The Election Commission on Wednesday ordered the removal of Kumar, who was posted as Additional Director General, CID, in West Bengal and had asked him to report to Union Home Ministry on Thursday.

Kumar, involved in a face-off with the CBI in connection with the agency's investigation in Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams, was removed as Additional Director General, CID, in West Bengal for allegedly failing to control the incidents of violence in the state.

During the arguments on CBI's plea, the apex court had said that it would examine whether there was evidence requiring Kumar's custodial interrogation in the case and had also perused the case diary placed before it by the agency.

CBI had claimed in the court that they were seeking vacation of interim protection granted to Kumar as some crucial evidence, collected by the West Bengal Police SIT, was not shared with it despite repeated requests.

Kumar's counsel had argued that the IPS officer was interrogated by the CBI for almost 40 hours and the agency was not able to spell out clearly as to what was the offence committed by him for which they want his custodial interrogation. 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce verdict on Friday on the CBI application seeking vacation of the order which granted interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha chit fund scam.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce verdict on Friday on the CBI application seeking vacation of the order which granted interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha chit fund scam. The CBI had told the apex court that it wanted custodial interrogation of Kumar, who was earlier heading West Bengal Police SIT probing chit fund scam, as there was prima facie evidence of his allegedly trying to destroy or tamper with evidence and "shield high and mighty" in the case. However, Kumar's counsel had countered CBI's submissions and told a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the agency wanted his custodial interrogation "just to humiliate" him and CBI should not be allowed to abuse the process of law. Kumar's counsel had told the bench that CBI's application seeking custodial interrogation of the IPS officer was a "mala fide exercise". Kumar was earlier heading the West Bengal Police's special investigation team (SIT) probing the chit fund scam. The apex court had in May 2014 directed the CBI to investigate the case. The apex court, on February 5, had granted protection from arrest to Kumar while directing him to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate into the investigation of cases arising out of the scam. The Election Commission on Wednesday ordered the removal of Kumar, who was posted as Additional Director General, CID, in West Bengal and had asked him to report to Union Home Ministry on Thursday. Kumar, involved in a face-off with the CBI in connection with the agency's investigation in Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams, was removed as Additional Director General, CID, in West Bengal for allegedly failing to control the incidents of violence in the state. During the arguments on CBI's plea, the apex court had said that it would examine whether there was evidence requiring Kumar's custodial interrogation in the case and had also perused the case diary placed before it by the agency. CBI had claimed in the court that they were seeking vacation of interim protection granted to Kumar as some crucial evidence, collected by the West Bengal Police SIT, was not shared with it despite repeated requests. Kumar's counsel had argued that the IPS officer was interrogated by the CBI for almost 40 hours and the agency was not able to spell out clearly as to what was the offence committed by him for which they want his custodial interrogation.

Supreme Court to pass order on CBI plea for vacating interim protection granted to Rajeev Kumar

PM Modi addressed his final rally in West Bengal's Mathurapur on Thursday even as the bitter clash between the BJP and TMC kept rumbling in the background as chief minister Mamata Banerjee held a roadshow attacking the BJP.

The Election Commission(EC) on Wednesday had banned campaigning in nine West Bengal constituencies in the Lok Sabha elections from 10 pm on Thursday night in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-trying-to-wipe-out-evidence-of-statue-desecration-modi-219198"> aftermath of the violence</a> which occurred during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow&nbsp;in West Bengal.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Modi speaking exclusively to Zee in Uttar Pradesh, emphatically demanded that the CCTV footage of vandalisation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-take-revenge-for-vandalisation-of-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-banerjee-219188">Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's </a>statue&nbsp;should be made public. The PM asserted that the TMC wants to win the elections by "trampling democracy".&nbsp;

"Those who are neutral and not supporting us have also demanded that CCTV footage of the destruction of the statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar should be made public."&nbsp;

"About violence in West Bengal, there were panchayat elections in J&amp;K and also in Bengal, although it was peaceful in J&amp;K but in West Bengal, several people were killed, houses were burnt and polling booths were looted," he said.

"The candidates just to get their nomination had to go to court and take permission. There was so much violence which the country had witnessed at that time," the prime minister said on West Bengal.

"Even before the elections were announced, leaders from the BJP were prevented from landing there, not just this even the prime minister's meetings were targeted."

"The local administration, TMC goons and the West Bengal government have joined together and have been trying to trample democracy in order to win the polls but the people will not bow down to this kind of politics."

"It was quite apparent that Durga puja celebrations were stopped, Kali puja celebrations were also a concern which was done primarily for vote bank politics in West Bengal."

"It has been happening repeatedly," the prime minister said.

"My detractors have nothing to say so they are resorting to abusing me and taking out their frustration but I don't want to waste my time," he said. "I want to do good things to the streets, good things to this country and the villages so I really don't think about it."

"It is not a question of my toughness, the people of this country have given me their love and confidence. I also expect myself to be able to deliver results. I need to meet the expectations of the people and I am working hard towards it."

"The fact is the Opposition has called my name so many times that it has become a poll issue and the people have also liked my work, so both the Opposition and the people are saying Modi, Modi, Modi but as far as I am concerned I would say that I am just a normal human being, I only want to do things for the people."

With SP and BSP combining to pressure the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, the PM said: "Most parties and political pundits who call themselves neutral are still affected by the 20th century, they are not ready to understand the 21st century, in 2019, the results in Uttar Pradesh will force them to change their theory."

"The unique thing about this election is that all the slogans have come from the people." "Only Modi will come, when I heard it, I was surprised, there are so many slogans floating around which shows their love."

The prime minister said the BJP will win more seats than 2014.

"The BJP will win more seats than 2014 and West Bengal has become so attached that it will help the BJP alone to cross 300 seats."

"Both the BJP and NDA will increase their tally, their strength, we will also win from new places and we will work for the country," the prime minister stressed.

"In this election, there is a pro-incumbency wave, the people are fighting this election," he said. "The country is far ahead of parties and politicians."

PM Modi addressed his final rally in West Bengal's Mathurapur on Thursday even as the bitter clash between the BJP and TMC kept rumbling in the background as chief minister Mamata Banerjee held a roadshow attacking the BJP.

PM Modi addressed his final rally in West Bengal's Mathurapur on Thursday even as the bitter clash between the BJP and TMC kept rumbling in the background as chief minister Mamata Banerjee held a roadshow attacking the BJP. The Election Commission(EC) on Wednesday had banned campaigning in nine West Bengal constituencies in the Lok Sabha elections from 10 pm on Thursday night in the aftermath of the violence which occurred during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow in West Bengal. PM Modi speaking exclusively to Zee in Uttar Pradesh, emphatically demanded that the CCTV footage of vandalisation of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue should be made public. The PM asserted that the TMC wants to win the elections by "trampling democracy". "Those who are neutral and not supporting us have also demanded that CCTV footage of the destruction of the statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar should be made public." "About violence in West Bengal, there were panchayat elections in J&K and also in Bengal, although it was peaceful in J&K but in West Bengal, several people were killed, houses were burnt and polling booths were looted," he said. "The candidates just to get their nomination had to go to court and take permission. There was so much violence which the country had witnessed at that time," the prime minister said on West Bengal. "Even before the elections were announced, leaders from the BJP were prevented from landing there, not just this even the prime minister's meetings were targeted." "The local administration, TMC goons and the West Bengal government have joined together and have been trying to trample democracy in order to win the polls but the people will not bow down to this kind of politics." "It was quite apparent that Durga puja celebrations were stopped, Kali puja celebrations were also a concern which was done primarily for vote bank politics in West Bengal." "It has been happening repeatedly," the prime minister said. "My detractors have nothing to say so they are resorting to abusing me and taking out their frustration but I don't want to waste my time," he said. "I want to do good things to the streets, good things to this country and the villages so I really don't think about it." "It is not a question of my toughness, the people of this country have given me their love and confidence. I also expect myself to be able to deliver results. I need to meet the expectations of the people and I am working hard towards it." "The fact is the Opposition has called my name so many times that it has become a poll issue and the people have also liked my work, so both the Opposition and the people are saying Modi, Modi, Modi but as far as I am concerned I would say that I am just a normal human being, I only want to do things for the people." With SP and BSP combining to pressure the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, the PM said: "Most parties and political pundits who call themselves neutral are still affected by the 20th century, they are not ready to understand the 21st century, in 2019, the results in Uttar Pradesh will force them to change their theory." "The unique thing about this election is that all the slogans have come from the people." "Only Modi will come, when I heard it, I was surprised, there are so many slogans floating around which shows their love." The prime minister said the BJP will win more seats than 2014. "The BJP will win more seats than 2014 and West Bengal has become so attached that it will help the BJP alone to cross 300 seats." "Both the BJP and NDA will increase their tally, their strength, we will also win from new places and we will work for the country," the prime minister stressed. "In this election, there is a pro-incumbency wave, the people are fighting this election," he said. "The country is far ahead of parties and politicians."

CCTV footage of vandalisation of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue should be released: PM Modi

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-trying-to-wipe-out-evidence-of-statue-desecration-modi-219198">Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue</a> of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23.

Addressing a rally in the Pataliputra Lok Sabha segment, from where Misa Bharti daughter of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad is in the fray, Gandhi attacked Modi for skirting questions on promises he had made like Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of all poor and creation of two crore jobs.

Asserting that the ruling BJP was headed for a defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, the Congress chief claimed Modi would get a befitting reply from the people angry over his failure to fulfil promises made five years ago when votes in the current elections are counted on May 23.

In a veiled attack on the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/obama-asks-the-same-says-pm-modi-when-akshay-kumar-asked-how-do-you-sleep-for-just-3-hours-213049"> interviews given by the prime minister, including the one to the Bollywood star Akshay Kumar</a>, Gandhi said questions and answers are choreographed to skirt the issue of his promises. All that we hear from Modi ji these days are inanities like how he eats a mango and why he wears half-sleeved kurtas.

Repeating the slogan of Chowkidar chor hai which has rankled the BJP, Gandhi said Modi must answer the questions we have been raising with regard to the Rafale deal. Why he got the contract awarded to Anil Ambani, why he agreed to pay much more for the fighter aircraft than what earlier had been agreed to and why Rafale would not be manufactured in India. He owes an answer to the nation on these counts.

Modi has travelled the entire country for his campaign, addressing rallies with the help of teleprompters. He has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption. But we have not allowed him to escape. My challenge to him for an open debate on corruption still stands. He has been badly exposed and, on May 23, it will be bye-bye for him, Gandhi said.

Speaking about his proposed NYAY scheme, Gandhi said financial assistance of Rs 72,000 per year to poor families would boost demand, leading to setting up of more industries and in turn fueling production and creation of jobs. It will propel the economy like diesel propels a tractor.

Gandhi also accused Modi of making Bihar a berozgaari (unemployment) ka centre and charged the Nitish Kumar government in the state with failure to provide relief to farmers through measures like a waiver of loans unlike in Congress-ruled states where it has been given top priority.

The Congress president, who toured the state in the first four phases of elections but skipped the next two, urged the people to vote for Misa Bharti, showering praises on her father serving sentences in fodder scam cases for his fight for social justice.

Earlier, Bharti younger brother Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the party's de facto leader in their fathers' absence, called the BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav paltu chacha no. 2 (turncoat number two).

Yadav has been using the epithet paltu for Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar whose exit from the Mahagathbandhan two years ago made the RJD lose power in the state and stripped him of the Deputy CMs post.

Ram Kripal Yadav, now a Union minister, was a close aide of Lalu Prasad, who quit the RJD to join BJP ahead of the 2014 parliamentary elections and won from Pataliputra seat defeating Misa.

In a show of unity within the jailed RJD chiefs family, his wife Rabri Devi and elder son Tej Pratap Yadav too attended the rally where other leaders of the opposition alliance like former Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha besides ex-CM and HAM founding president Jitan Ram Manjhi were also present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption during the campaign, but we have not allowed him to escape, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said Thursday, claiming it will be "bye-bye" for him on May 23. Addressing a rally in the Pataliputra Lok Sabha segment, from where Misa Bharti daughter of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad is in the fray, Gandhi attacked Modi for skirting questions on promises he had made like Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of all poor and creation of two crore jobs. Asserting that the ruling BJP was headed for a defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, the Congress chief claimed Modi would get a befitting reply from the people angry over his failure to fulfil promises made five years ago when votes in the current elections are counted on May 23. In a veiled attack on the interviews given by the prime minister, including the one to the Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, Gandhi said questions and answers are choreographed to skirt the issue of his promises. All that we hear from Modi ji these days are inanities like how he eats a mango and why he wears half-sleeved kurtas. Repeating the slogan of Chowkidar chor hai which has rankled the BJP, Gandhi said Modi must answer the questions we have been raising with regard to the Rafale deal. Why he got the contract awarded to Anil Ambani, why he agreed to pay much more for the fighter aircraft than what earlier had been agreed to and why Rafale would not be manufactured in India. He owes an answer to the nation on these counts. Modi has travelled the entire country for his campaign, addressing rallies with the help of teleprompters. He has carefully avoided speaking on the issue of corruption. But we have not allowed him to escape. My challenge to him for an open debate on corruption still stands. He has been badly exposed and, on May 23, it will be bye-bye for him, Gandhi said. Speaking about his proposed NYAY scheme, Gandhi said financial assistance of Rs 72,000 per year to poor families would boost demand, leading to setting up of more industries and in turn fueling production and creation of jobs. It will propel the economy like diesel propels a tractor. Gandhi also accused Modi of making Bihar a berozgaari (unemployment) ka centre and charged the Nitish Kumar government in the state with failure to provide relief to farmers through measures like a waiver of loans unlike in Congress-ruled states where it has been given top priority. The Congress president, who toured the state in the first four phases of elections but skipped the next two, urged the people to vote for Misa Bharti, showering praises on her father serving sentences in fodder scam cases for his fight for social justice. Earlier, Bharti younger brother Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the party's de facto leader in their fathers' absence, called the BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav paltu chacha no. 2 (turncoat number two). Yadav has been using the epithet paltu for Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar whose exit from the Mahagathbandhan two years ago made the RJD lose power in the state and stripped him of the Deputy CMs post. Ram Kripal Yadav, now a Union minister, was a close aide of Lalu Prasad, who quit the RJD to join BJP ahead of the 2014 parliamentary elections and won from Pataliputra seat defeating Misa. In a show of unity within the jailed RJD chiefs family, his wife Rabri Devi and elder son Tej Pratap Yadav too attended the rally where other leaders of the opposition alliance like former Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha besides ex-CM and HAM founding president Jitan Ram Manjhi were also present.

On May 23 it will be 'bye-bye' for Modi, claims Rahul at Bihar rally

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-should-stop-incorrect-action-on-huawei-to-avoid-additional-harm-to-china-us-economic-and-trade-relations-china-219157">US should stop incorrect action on Huawei to avoid additional harm to China-US economic and trade relations: China</a>

China today warned the United States against further harming trade ties after President Donald Trump effectively barred Chinese telecom giant Huawei from the US market and put it on a blacklist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-twenty-trapped-in-shanghai-building-collapse-219177">Five killed, twenty trapped in Shanghai building collapse</a>

Five people were killed on Thursday when the roof of a Shanghai commercial building caved in upon construction workers who were renovating it, the city government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-mayor-bill-de-blasio-announces-2020-us-presidential-bid-219173">New York mayor Bill de Blasio announces 2020 US presidential bid</a>

New York mayor Bill de Blasio has announced his presidential bid to challenge President Trump in the 2020 elections.

De Blasio, 57, has added his name to the growing Democrats list which includes former US Vice President Joe Biden, US Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts among others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-fines-five-major-banks-1-billion-euros-for-currency-collusion-219183">European Union fines five major banks $1.2 billion for currency collusion</a>

The EU's powerful anti-trust authority on Thursday fined five major banks -- including Barclays and Citigroup -- more than a billion euros for collusion in the massive foreign exchange currency market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gifts-two-mi-24-attack-helicopters-to-afghan-air-force-219184">India gifts two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan Air Force</a>

India on Thursday handed over two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan defence minister Asadullah Khalid at the Kabul Air Force base.

Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar handed over the helicopters. The helicopters are replacement of the four attack helicopters gifted previously by India to Afghanistan in 2015.

&nbsp;

US should stop incorrect action on Huawei to avoid additional harm to China-US economic and trade relations: China China today warned the United States against further harming trade ties after President Donald Trump effectively barred Chinese telecom giant Huawei from the US market and put it on a blacklist.

US should stop incorrect action on Huawei to avoid additional harm to China-US economic and trade relations: China China today warned the United States against further harming trade ties after President Donald Trump effectively barred Chinese telecom giant Huawei from the US market and put it on a blacklist. Five killed, twenty trapped in Shanghai building collapse Five people were killed on Thursday when the roof of a Shanghai commercial building caved in upon construction workers who were renovating it, the city government said. New York mayor Bill de Blasio announces 2020 US presidential bid New York mayor Bill de Blasio has announced his presidential bid to challenge President Trump in the 2020 elections. De Blasio, 57, has added his name to the growing Democrats list which includes former US Vice President Joe Biden, US Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts among others. European Union fines five major banks $1.2 billion for currency collusion The EU's powerful anti-trust authority on Thursday fined five major banks -- including Barclays and Citigroup -- more than a billion euros for collusion in the massive foreign exchange currency market. India gifts two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan Air Force India on Thursday handed over two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan defence minister Asadullah Khalid at the Kabul Air Force base. Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar handed over the helicopters. The helicopters are replacement of the four attack helicopters gifted previously by India to Afghanistan in 2015.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-three-jem-terrorists-shot-in-pulwama-encounter-soldier-civilian-also-killed-219169">encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama</a> district on Thursday.&nbsp;

The encounter also claimed the life of one army personnel and a civilian during the exchange of gunfire.

On specific inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, J&amp;K police along with 55 Rashtriya Rifles unit of the Indian Army and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in the village.&nbsp;

Army personnel, identified as Sandeep, succumbed to injuries at army's 92 base hospital in Srinagar. Sandeep was part of a team which was close to the encounter spot and was fired upon as they zeroed in on them.

During the operation, two army men and a civilian also received injuries who are now being treated at the hospital.

"As the Police and security forces were evacuating civilians from the neighbourhood area around the target house, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. In the process, one Army soldier Sandeep attained martyrdom and one civilian Rayees Dar also lost his life," J&amp;K police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The killing of Khalid, a top commander of Jaish, is also seen as a major success for the security agencies. Sources in the police say that Khalid was active in Kashmir for few years and was wanted in the 2017 suicide attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora, Pulwama, that left five paramilitary personnel dead.

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Police identified the other two local terrorists as Naseer Pandith, a resident of Kareemabad in Pulwama and Umar Mir of Shopian and said that the duo was involved in several terror crimes and killing of a policeman on the eve of EID last year.&nbsp;

Intense clashes were also witnessed around the encounter spot and police used tear smoke shells and pellets to disperse the protestors.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, three more terrorists were killed in another encounter between security forces and terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian district.&nbsp;

Two bodies have been recovered from the debris while the search for the third is going on.&nbsp;

Sources say all of them belong to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen outfit.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama district on Thursday.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama district on Thursday. The encounter also claimed the life of one army personnel and a civilian during the exchange of gunfire. On specific inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, J&K police along with 55 Rashtriya Rifles unit of the Indian Army and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in the village. Army personnel, identified as Sandeep, succumbed to injuries at army's 92 base hospital in Srinagar. Sandeep was part of a team which was close to the encounter spot and was fired upon as they zeroed in on them. During the operation, two army men and a civilian also received injuries who are now being treated at the hospital. "As the Police and security forces were evacuating civilians from the neighbourhood area around the target house, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. In the process, one Army soldier Sandeep attained martyrdom and one civilian Rayees Dar also lost his life," J&K police said in a statement. The killing of Khalid, a top commander of Jaish, is also seen as a major success for the security agencies. Sources in the police say that Khalid was active in Kashmir for few years and was wanted in the 2017 suicide attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora, Pulwama, that left five paramilitary personnel dead. × Police identified the other two local terrorists as Naseer Pandith, a resident of Kareemabad in Pulwama and Umar Mir of Shopian and said that the duo was involved in several terror crimes and killing of a policeman on the eve of EID last year. Intense clashes were also witnessed around the encounter spot and police used tear smoke shells and pellets to disperse the protestors. Meanwhile, three more terrorists were killed in another encounter between security forces and terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian district. Two bodies have been recovered from the debris while the search for the third is going on. Sources say all of them belong to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen outfit.

J&K: Three JeM terrorists shot in Pulwama encounter; soldier, civilian also killed

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-goons-vandalised-vidyasagars-statue-committed-to-grand-statue-at-same-spot-pm-modi-219098">grand statue of the late social reformer</a>.

She asserted that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bengal-has-money-to-make-vidyasagars-statue-mamata-hits-back-at-modi-219155">West Bengal government had enough money to build it</a>.

She also said that she has never come across a prime minister who kept saying so many lies. Banerjee took a jibe at the BJP which she said could not build a Ram Temple in the last five years and now was making the promise of building a new statue of Vidyasagar, which was vandalised in clashes during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata earlier this week.

"In the last five years, you (Modi) could not build a Ram Temple and you want to make Vidyasagar's statue? People of Bengal won't beg before you. We have enough money to build it. Your goons came here and said 'Bengal kangal hai'. Are Bengalis kangal?" a vociferous TMC supremo said making a veiled reference to BJP President Amit Shah who had attacked Banerjee a couple of days.

Banerjee was addressing a public meeting while campaigning for her nephew and sitting MP Abhishek.

Earlier, addressing a meeting in the state Modi attacked the TMC and offered to build a grand statute of Vidyasagar.

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Scoffing at BJP over the promise of making Vidyasagar's statue, Banerjee said, "BJP goons broke Vidyasagar's statue because they did not know him. He has contributed a lot to our society. You (BJP) broke the statue and you are saying we will make another one. Will the old heritage return or what? We do not need your money."

In an unprecedented action in India's electoral history, the EC on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase of campaigning in West Bengal by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and TMC workers during Shah's roadshow in the state capital on Tuesday.

During the mayhem, Vidyasagar's bust was also vandalised at a college named after him. Since then, both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-bjp-tmc-row-heats-up-in-west-bengal-as-amit-shah-pm-modi-attack-mamata-219015">TMC and BJP have been trading accusations</a> against each other.

Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system.

Asking the crowd to say 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' (guard is the thief), Banerjee said, "You have to bid him (Modi) goodbye. First, he called himself a 'chaiwala', now he claims himself to be a 'chowkidar'."

"Will you vote for this 'chowkidar'? We will take revenge for the vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue. The people of Bengal will give you a befitting reply," she added.

Launching a scathing attack on Modi, the TMC supremo claimed that she never saw a "liar" occupying the top post.

"I have never heard any Prime Minister telling so many lies. How on earth did he become the Prime Minister? He does not have any idea how to run the country," Banerjee said.

She claimed that she had video evidence of BJP supporters disguising themselves as CRPF personnel and threatening the people to vote for the saffron party.

"I have video evidence of BJP supporters wearing CRPF uniforms. They go to the polling booths and threaten people to vote for BJP. They even said that they will change the EVMs in the middle of the night. But we will not keep quiet, we will fight," Banerjee said.

Snapping back at BJP over their claims that the state's democracy is under attack, the TMC supremo said, "Modi babu is so scared of Bengal. Just see, he is so scared of TMC."

Urging the people to vote in huge numbers to oust BJP, Banerjee asserted that the people of the country did not want the "dangerous" saffron party in power "anymore."

"On May 23, we will throw you out. You are here for just a few days only. Vote for TMC and defeat BJP. We do not want any more atrocities. The more quickly you will go, the better it would be," she said.

Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections. The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.&nbsp;

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a grand statue of the late social reformer.

The war of words over the vandalisation of the bust of Bengal Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar escalated on Thursday with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a liar and rejecting his offer to build a grand statue of the late social reformer. She asserted that the West Bengal government had enough money to build it. She also said that she has never come across a prime minister who kept saying so many lies. Banerjee took a jibe at the BJP which she said could not build a Ram Temple in the last five years and now was making the promise of building a new statue of Vidyasagar, which was vandalised in clashes during BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow in Kolkata earlier this week. "In the last five years, you (Modi) could not build a Ram Temple and you want to make Vidyasagar's statue? People of Bengal won't beg before you. We have enough money to build it. Your goons came here and said 'Bengal kangal hai'. Are Bengalis kangal?" a vociferous TMC supremo said making a veiled reference to BJP President Amit Shah who had attacked Banerjee a couple of days. Banerjee was addressing a public meeting while campaigning for her nephew and sitting MP Abhishek. Earlier, addressing a meeting in the state Modi attacked the TMC and offered to build a grand statute of Vidyasagar. × Scoffing at BJP over the promise of making Vidyasagar's statue, Banerjee said, "BJP goons broke Vidyasagar's statue because they did not know him. He has contributed a lot to our society. You (BJP) broke the statue and you are saying we will make another one. Will the old heritage return or what? We do not need your money." In an unprecedented action in India's electoral history, the EC on Wednesday invoked Article 324 of the Constitution to cut short the last phase of campaigning in West Bengal by a day after violence and clashes between BJP and TMC workers during Shah's roadshow in the state capital on Tuesday. During the mayhem, Vidyasagar's bust was also vandalised at a college named after him. Since then, both TMC and BJP have been trading accusations against each other. Vidyasagar, a renowned figure in West Bengal's history, devoted his life to women-centric reforms. He is also credited with bringing more order to the Bengali education system. Asking the crowd to say 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' (guard is the thief), Banerjee said, "You have to bid him (Modi) goodbye. First, he called himself a 'chaiwala', now he claims himself to be a 'chowkidar'." "Will you vote for this 'chowkidar'? We will take revenge for the vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue. The people of Bengal will give you a befitting reply," she added. Launching a scathing attack on Modi, the TMC supremo claimed that she never saw a "liar" occupying the top post. "I have never heard any Prime Minister telling so many lies. How on earth did he become the Prime Minister? He does not have any idea how to run the country," Banerjee said. She claimed that she had video evidence of BJP supporters disguising themselves as CRPF personnel and threatening the people to vote for the saffron party. "I have video evidence of BJP supporters wearing CRPF uniforms. They go to the polling booths and threaten people to vote for BJP. They even said that they will change the EVMs in the middle of the night. But we will not keep quiet, we will fight," Banerjee said. Snapping back at BJP over their claims that the state's democracy is under attack, the TMC supremo said, "Modi babu is so scared of Bengal. Just see, he is so scared of TMC." Urging the people to vote in huge numbers to oust BJP, Banerjee asserted that the people of the country did not want the "dangerous" saffron party in power "anymore." "On May 23, we will throw you out. You are here for just a few days only. Vote for TMC and defeat BJP. We do not want any more atrocities. The more quickly you will go, the better it would be," she said. Elections to 33 seats have taken place in West Bengal in the first six phases of elections. The remaining nine seats will go to polls on May 19 in the last round with the counting set to take place on May 23.

We will take revenge for vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue: Mamata Banerjee

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants. The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.

Sachin Tendulkar launches BMW new X5 SUV in India

India on Thursday handed over two&nbsp;Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan defence <a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/ashraf-ghanis-special-envoy-reaches-delhi-as-india-increases-engagement-with-other-forces-on-afghan-peace-process-219148">minister Asadullah Khalid</a> at the Kabul Air Force base.

Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar handed over the helicopters. The helicopters are replacement of the four&nbsp;attack helicopters gifted previously by India to Afghanistan in 2015.

A release by the Indian mission in Afghanistan said, "helicopters shall boost the capability of the Afghan Air Force" and enhance the "effectiveness of the Afghan national fefence and security force in combating the scrouge of terrorism"&nbsp;

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Afghanistan on 25th December 2016, New Delhi had gifted four Mi 25 attack helicopters to the Afghan Air Force. It was during this visit PM Modi had&nbsp;inaugurated the Afghan Parliament, which was&nbsp;built by India.

Former Indian envoy to Afghanistan, Amar Sinha speaking to WION on the development said, "India's supply of two more Mi 24 helicopters is in line with our policies and commitments to Afghanistan."

Explaining further Sinha said, "It is also a symbol of trilateral cooperation with Belarus as the third country which made these available for use by ANSF"

Amar Sinha was the Indian ambassador to Afghanistan in 2016 when the four Mi 25 attack helicopters were gifted to the landlocked South Asian country.

India is currently providing assistance to Afghan National Defence and Security forces (ANSF) by training the personnel and in the past has&nbsp;trained Afghan pilots as well.

India on Thursday handed over two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan defence minister Asadullah Khalid at the Kabul Air Force base. Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar handed over the helicopters.

India on Thursday handed over two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan defence minister Asadullah Khalid at the Kabul Air Force base. Indian envoy to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar handed over the helicopters. The helicopters are replacement of the four attack helicopters gifted previously by India to Afghanistan in 2015. A release by the Indian mission in Afghanistan said, "helicopters shall boost the capability of the Afghan Air Force" and enhance the "effectiveness of the Afghan national fefence and security force in combating the scrouge of terrorism" During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Afghanistan on 25th December 2016, New Delhi had gifted four Mi 25 attack helicopters to the Afghan Air Force. It was during this visit PM Modi had inaugurated the Afghan Parliament, which was built by India. Former Indian envoy to Afghanistan, Amar Sinha speaking to WION on the development said, "India's supply of two more Mi 24 helicopters is in line with our policies and commitments to Afghanistan." Explaining further Sinha said, "It is also a symbol of trilateral cooperation with Belarus as the third country which made these available for use by ANSF" Amar Sinha was the Indian ambassador to Afghanistan in 2016 when the four Mi 25 attack helicopters were gifted to the landlocked South Asian country. India is currently providing assistance to Afghan National Defence and Security forces (ANSF) by training the personnel and in the past has trained Afghan pilots as well.

India gifts two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan Air Force

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants.

The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar.

BMW X5 is one of the most selling models for the car makers in the domestic market, and the latest version of the SUV will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, Range Rover Velar, Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7.

"BMW established the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of BMW X5 in 1999. The BMW X5 has been the best-selling car in this segment for many years and has become one of our most successful models. The all-new BMW X5 is bound to add another chapter to this success story," said Bartels.

BMW sold 13 per cent more cars in India in the previous calendar year at 11,105 units as against 9,800 units in 2017.

The group also reported its highest-ever first quarter sales at 2,982 units in the March quarter this year.

The sales of the BMW brand cars surged 19 per cent to 2,822 units during the quarter against the same period a year ago.

The MINI brand sold 160 units during the period, an increase of 18 per cent from the year-ago period.

Besides, BMW Motorrad, the group's premium luxury motorcycle arm, also sold 597 bikes during the first quarter of 2019.

"I saw the first time (the car) when I was in Europe, and once I got out of the airport, an X5 was parked for me," Tendulkar said.&nbsp;

German luxury car maker BMW on Thursday launched the new generation X5 SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 72.9 lakh for diesel variants. The car was launched by BMW Group India acting president Hans-Christian Bartels and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar. BMW X5 is one of the most selling models for the car makers in the domestic market, and the latest version of the SUV will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, Range Rover Velar, Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7. "BMW established the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment with the launch of BMW X5 in 1999. The BMW X5 has been the best-selling car in this segment for many years and has become one of our most successful models. The all-new BMW X5 is bound to add another chapter to this success story," said Bartels. BMW sold 13 per cent more cars in India in the previous calendar year at 11,105 units as against 9,800 units in 2017. The group also reported its highest-ever first quarter sales at 2,982 units in the March quarter this year. The sales of the BMW brand cars surged 19 per cent to 2,822 units during the quarter against the same period a year ago. The MINI brand sold 160 units during the period, an increase of 18 per cent from the year-ago period. Besides, BMW Motorrad, the group's premium luxury motorcycle arm, also sold 597 bikes during the first quarter of 2019. "I saw the first time (the car) when I was in Europe, and once I got out of the airport, an X5 was parked for me," Tendulkar said.

BMW launches new X5 SUV in India, prices start at Rs 72.9 lakh

The growth strategy of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dgca-notice-to-indigo-coo-over-pw-engine-conducts-safety-audit-211127">IndiGo</a> remains unchanged and the airline's management has the full backing of the company's board of directors to implement it, said Ronojoy Dutta, CEO, InterGlobe Aviation, in an email to his employees on Thursday.&nbsp;

The email was sent to employees by the CEO as there were various media reports on Thursday morning regarding alleged disagreements between the airline's two promoters - Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal.&nbsp;

InterGlobe Aviation owns and manages IndiGo airline, which has around 44 per cent share in the domestic passenger market.&nbsp;

"I want to assure you that the growth strategy of the airline remains unchanged and firmly in place, and the management is fully charged by the Board to implement it," Dutta said in the email.

"I am sure you are all aware of the press reports regarding alleged disagreements between our two promoters Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal," he added.&nbsp;

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The CEO said the company would continue its focus on creating value for all shareholders, customers, employees and the communities it serves.

As per the media reports, serious differences have cropped up among the two chief promoters over strategies and ambitions for the airline.

In order to resolve the differences amicably so that it does not affect airline's functioning, Gangwal and Bhatia are taking help from law firms J Sagar Associates and Khatian &amp; Co, respectively, as per the media reports.&nbsp;

IndiGo did not respond to the specific queries sent by the PTI regarding this matter.

While Gangwal owns around 37 per cent share in InterGlobe Aviation, Bhatia has around 38 per cent share in the company that is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange.&nbsp;

The growth strategy of IndiGo remains unchanged and the airline's management has the full backing of the company's board of directors to implement it, said Ronojoy Dutta, CEO, InterGlobe Aviation, in an email to his employees on Thursday.

The growth strategy of IndiGo remains unchanged and the airline's management has the full backing of the company's board of directors to implement it, said Ronojoy Dutta, CEO, InterGlobe Aviation, in an email to his employees on Thursday. The email was sent to employees by the CEO as there were various media reports on Thursday morning regarding alleged disagreements between the airline's two promoters - Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal. InterGlobe Aviation owns and manages IndiGo airline, which has around 44 per cent share in the domestic passenger market. "I want to assure you that the growth strategy of the airline remains unchanged and firmly in place, and the management is fully charged by the Board to implement it," Dutta said in the email. "I am sure you are all aware of the press reports regarding alleged disagreements between our two promoters Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal," he added. × The CEO said the company would continue its focus on creating value for all shareholders, customers, employees and the communities it serves. As per the media reports, serious differences have cropped up among the two chief promoters over strategies and ambitions for the airline. In order to resolve the differences amicably so that it does not affect airline's functioning, Gangwal and Bhatia are taking help from law firms J Sagar Associates and Khatian & Co, respectively, as per the media reports. IndiGo did not respond to the specific queries sent by the PTI regarding this matter. While Gangwal owns around 37 per cent share in InterGlobe Aviation, Bhatia has around 38 per cent share in the company that is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange.

IndiGo management has full backing of board: CEO Ronojoy Dutta after reported disagreement between promoters

US Navy Chief Admiral John M Richardson has said both US and Indian Navies is concerned by terrorism's maritime dimension but with Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) which was signed last year during the 2+2 talks between Indian and American foreign and defence, ministers will help in exchange of information on such terror activities.

Speaking to reporters via a telephonic press conference from Manila in which WION was present, Admiral Richardson said, "We have very very common views in terms of the importance of addressing and taking measures so that we can take to minimise the possibility of terrorism whether it comes from land or sea. Both of our navies are concerned about the maritime dimension."

Explaining further, "We have a terrific opportunity because of the last 2+2 meet, we signed important agreements — COMCASA. This is a foundational agreement that allows us to exchange information. So we have info exchanges so that we have the opportunity to learn and fully understand and share information with we have with India that will allow us to exchange information on any terror activity."

COMCASA which stands for Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement and a foundational agreement US signs with allies to exchange information.

US Navy Chief was in India earlier this week and met Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba.

On his India visit, Richardson said, the focus was to make the relationship "vibrant" between Indian and US navies. Indian Navy and US Navies interact regularly at bilateral and multilateral forums and participate in maritime exercises such as MALABAR and RIMPAC.&nbsp;

China and Iran also dominated the press conference. While on China, the US navy chief hoped the as the country expands "it complies with International rules-based order", on the developing situation in West Asia especially on Iran, he said, US is "very working closely with everybody".

US Navy Chief Admiral John M Richardson has said both US and Indian Navies is concerned by terrorism's maritime dimension but with Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) which was signed last year during the 2+2 talks between Indian and American foreign and defence, ministers will help in exchange of information on such terror activities.

US Navy Chief Admiral John M Richardson has said both US and Indian Navies is concerned by terrorism's maritime dimension but with Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) which was signed last year during the 2+2 talks between Indian and American foreign and defence, ministers will help in exchange of information on such terror activities. Speaking to reporters via a telephonic press conference from Manila in which WION was present, Admiral Richardson said, "We have very very common views in terms of the importance of addressing and taking measures so that we can take to minimise the possibility of terrorism whether it comes from land or sea. Both of our navies are concerned about the maritime dimension." Explaining further, "We have a terrific opportunity because of the last 2+2 meet, we signed important agreements — COMCASA. This is a foundational agreement that allows us to exchange information. So we have info exchanges so that we have the opportunity to learn and fully understand and share information with we have with India that will allow us to exchange information on any terror activity." COMCASA which stands for Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement and a foundational agreement US signs with allies to exchange information. US Navy Chief was in India earlier this week and met Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba. On his India visit, Richardson said, the focus was to make the relationship "vibrant" between Indian and US navies. Indian Navy and US Navies interact regularly at bilateral and multilateral forums and participate in maritime exercises such as MALABAR and RIMPAC. China and Iran also dominated the press conference. While on China, the US navy chief hoped the as the country expands "it complies with International rules-based order", on the developing situation in West Asia especially on Iran, he said, US is "very working closely with everybody".

US navy chief says maritime dimension of terror concern for both India, US

CBI Thursday withdrew its application from Delhi court seeking permission to further probe the politically sensitive, Rs 64-crore Bofors payoff case.

The agency told Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Navin Kumar Kashyap that it wants to withdraw the application filed on February 1, 2018.

CBI had moved the trial court seeking permission for further probe in the matter saying it had come across fresh material and evidence.

The agency on Thursday submitted before the court that decision on further course of action will be taken by it and at present they want to withdraw the application.

The court on December 4, 2018 had questioned as to why the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) required its permission to further probe the matter.

CBI Thursday withdrew its application from Delhi court seeking permission to further probe the politically sensitive, Rs 64-crore Bofors payoff case. The agency told Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Navin Kumar Kashyap that it wants to withdraw the application filed on February 1, 2018.

CBI Thursday withdrew its application from Delhi court seeking permission to further probe the politically sensitive, Rs 64-crore Bofors payoff case. The agency told Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Navin Kumar Kashyap that it wants to withdraw the application filed on February 1, 2018. CBI had moved the trial court seeking permission for further probe in the matter saying it had come across fresh material and evidence. The agency on Thursday submitted before the court that decision on further course of action will be taken by it and at present they want to withdraw the application. The court on December 4, 2018 had questioned as to why the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) required its permission to further probe the matter.

CBI withdraws application from Delhi court seeking permission for further probe in Bofors case

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday spoke to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal regarding the blasts in Guwahati on Wednesday evening that left as many as 12 people injured.

"Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal regarding the blast in Guwahati. The Chief Minister apprised him of the situation. The police and other agencies are investigating the incident. The HM prays for the speedy recovery of the injured," the office of the Home Minister of India tweeted.

The explosion had occurred outside a mall on Zoo Road in Guwahati.

"A grenade blast took place at 8 pm. An investigation is underway," Deepak Kumar, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati, had informed on Wednesday.

Two unknown bike-borne suspects had lobbed a grenade on state police troops and fled the spot.

Soon after the blasts, the area was cordoned off for police investigation.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday spoke to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal regarding the blasts in Guwahati on Wednesday evening that left as many as 12 people injured.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday spoke to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal regarding the blasts in Guwahati on Wednesday evening that left as many as 12 people injured. "Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal regarding the blast in Guwahati. The Chief Minister apprised him of the situation. The police and other agencies are investigating the incident. The HM prays for the speedy recovery of the injured," the office of the Home Minister of India tweeted. The explosion had occurred outside a mall on Zoo Road in Guwahati. "A grenade blast took place at 8 pm. An investigation is underway," Deepak Kumar, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati, had informed on Wednesday. Two unknown bike-borne suspects had lobbed a grenade on state police troops and fled the spot. Soon after the blasts, the area was cordoned off for police investigation.

Rajnath Singh speaks to Assam CM over Guwahati blasts

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'Christchurch call' to fight extremism online: India joins, US declines

Soldier, 3 terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

India’s defence set to form new special forces division

Campaigning ends for seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls in Bengal

Chanda Kochhar's brother-in-law allowed to visit US by Delhi court

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Police trying to wipe out evidence of statue desecration: Modi

News brief: Big stories of the day

Supreme Court to pass order on CBI plea for vacating interim protection granted to Rajeev Kumar

CCTV footage of vandalisation of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue should be released: PM Modi

On May 23 it will be 'bye-bye' for Modi, claims Rahul at Bihar rally

News brief: Big stories of the day

J&K: Three JeM terrorists shot in Pulwama encounter; soldier, civilian also killed

We will take revenge for vandalisation of Vidyasagar's statue: Mamata Banerjee

Sachin Tendulkar launches BMW new X5 SUV in India

India gifts two Mi 24 attack helicopters to Afghan Air Force

BMW launches new X5 SUV in India, prices start at Rs 72.9 lakh

IndiGo management has full backing of board: CEO Ronojoy Dutta after reported disagreement between promoters

US navy chief says maritime dimension of terror concern for both India, US

CBI withdraws application from Delhi court seeking permission for further probe in Bofors case

Rajnath Singh speaks to Assam CM over Guwahati blasts