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In a show of mahagathbandhan unity, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and wife of Akhilesh Yadav, Dimple Yadav, touched Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati`s feet and sought blessings before addressing a public gathering at a rally here.

In a video from the rally, Dimple is seen bending to touch Mayawati`s feet, after which the BSP chief pats her on the back. Dimple`s husband and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present.&nbsp;

During the rally, Mayawati said Dimple was like a member of her family.

Terming Dimple as a "mature" woman, Mayawati said, "SP president Akhilesh Yadav respects me as an elder of the family and after this Gathbandhan I also have accepted Dimple as a part of my family."&nbsp;

She also appealed to public present at the event to vote for Dimple.

"Make her (Dimple) win by record margin," she said.She then went to say that the "theatrics of chowkidari" will not help BJP win elections.&nbsp;

Terming the BJP`s campaign on national security "unfortunate", Mayawati said, "Every now and then our country witnesses terrorist attacks and many soldiers of our country have got martyred but despite all this, the government is trying to use this issue for political gains."

Attacking the BJP government for using investigative agencies against its opponents, Mayawati said, "Alike the Congress party, the BJP government is using CBI, ED and Income Tax to retain its rule. You have to ensure that neither the Congress nor the BJP comes to power at the Centre."

"BJP promised to transfer Rs 15 lakh into your bank account, the promise has turned into a cruel joke for the poor. Congress is also promising Rs 6000 every month to every poor family but this is also not going to end poverty. If we (the Gathbandhan) form the government at the centre we will provide employment to everybody in government and non-government sectors," she assured.

In Kannauj, polling will be held on April 29, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.As per the seat-sharing pact in Uttar Pradesh, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on three.In a show of mahagathbandhan unity, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and wife of Akhilesh Yadav, Dimple Yadav, touched Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati`s feet and sought blessings before addressing a public gathering at a rally here.

In a video from the rally, Dimple is seen bending to touch Mayawati`s feet, after which the BSP chief pats her on the back. Dimple`s husband and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present.&nbsp;

During the rally, Mayawati said Dimple was like a member of her family.

Terming Dimple as a "mature" woman, Mayawati said, "SP president Akhilesh Yadav respects me as an elder of the family and after this Gathbandhan I also have accepted Dimple as a part of my family."&nbsp;

She also appealed to public present at the event to vote for Dimple.

"Make her (Dimple) win by record margin," she said.She then went to say that the "theatrics of chowkidari" will not help BJP win elections.&nbsp;

Terming the BJP`s campaign on national security "unfortunate", Mayawati said, "Every now and then our country witnesses terrorist attacks and many soldiers of our country have got martyred but despite all this, the government is trying to use this issue for political gains."

Attacking the BJP government for using investigative agencies against its opponents, Mayawati said, "Alike the Congress party, the BJP government is using CBI, ED and Income Tax to retain its rule. You have to ensure that neither the Congress nor the BJP comes to power at the Centre."

"BJP promised to transfer Rs 15 lakh into your bank account, the promise has turned into a cruel joke for the poor. Congress is also promising Rs 6000 every month to every poor family but this is also not going to end poverty. If we (the Gathbandhan) form the government at the centre we will provide employment to everybody in government and non-government sectors," she assured.

In Kannauj, polling will be held on April 29, and counting of votes will take place on May 23. As per the seat-sharing pact in Uttar Pradesh, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on three.

In a show of mahagathbandhan unity, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and wife of Akhilesh Yadav, Dimple Yadav, touched Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati`s feet and sought blessings before addressing a public gathering at a rally here.

In a show of mahagathbandhan unity, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and wife of Akhilesh Yadav, Dimple Yadav, touched Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati`s feet and sought blessings before addressing a public gathering at a rally here. In a video from the rally, Dimple is seen bending to touch Mayawati`s feet, after which the BSP chief pats her on the back. Dimple`s husband and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present. During the rally, Mayawati said Dimple was like a member of her family. Terming Dimple as a "mature" woman, Mayawati said, "SP president Akhilesh Yadav respects me as an elder of the family and after this Gathbandhan I also have accepted Dimple as a part of my family." She also appealed to public present at the event to vote for Dimple. "Make her (Dimple) win by record margin," she said.She then went to say that the "theatrics of chowkidari" will not help BJP win elections. Terming the BJP`s campaign on national security "unfortunate", Mayawati said, "Every now and then our country witnesses terrorist attacks and many soldiers of our country have got martyred but despite all this, the government is trying to use this issue for political gains." Attacking the BJP government for using investigative agencies against its opponents, Mayawati said, "Alike the Congress party, the BJP government is using CBI, ED and Income Tax to retain its rule. You have to ensure that neither the Congress nor the BJP comes to power at the Centre." "BJP promised to transfer Rs 15 lakh into your bank account, the promise has turned into a cruel joke for the poor. Congress is also promising Rs 6000 every month to every poor family but this is also not going to end poverty. If we (the Gathbandhan) form the government at the centre we will provide employment to everybody in government and non-government sectors," she assured. In Kannauj, polling will be held on April 29, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.As per the seat-sharing pact in Uttar Pradesh, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on three.In a show of mahagathbandhan unity, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and wife of Akhilesh Yadav, Dimple Yadav, touched Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati`s feet and sought blessings before addressing a public gathering at a rally here. In a video from the rally, Dimple is seen bending to touch Mayawati`s feet, after which the BSP chief pats her on the back. Dimple`s husband and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present. During the rally, Mayawati said Dimple was like a member of her family. Terming Dimple as a "mature" woman, Mayawati said, "SP president Akhilesh Yadav respects me as an elder of the family and after this Gathbandhan I also have accepted Dimple as a part of my family." She also appealed to public present at the event to vote for Dimple. "Make her (Dimple) win by record margin," she said.She then went to say that the "theatrics of chowkidari" will not help BJP win elections. Terming the BJP`s campaign on national security "unfortunate", Mayawati said, "Every now and then our country witnesses terrorist attacks and many soldiers of our country have got martyred but despite all this, the government is trying to use this issue for political gains." Attacking the BJP government for using investigative agencies against its opponents, Mayawati said, "Alike the Congress party, the BJP government is using CBI, ED and Income Tax to retain its rule. You have to ensure that neither the Congress nor the BJP comes to power at the Centre." "BJP promised to transfer Rs 15 lakh into your bank account, the promise has turned into a cruel joke for the poor. Congress is also promising Rs 6000 every month to every poor family but this is also not going to end poverty. If we (the Gathbandhan) form the government at the centre we will provide employment to everybody in government and non-government sectors," she assured. In Kannauj, polling will be held on April 29, and counting of votes will take place on May 23. As per the seat-sharing pact in Uttar Pradesh, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on three.

Kannauj: Dimple Yadav touches Mayawati's feet, seeks blessings

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'Modi wave' sweeps Varanasi as huge crowd gathers at roadshow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism.

Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 para-military men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror.

Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives.

The prime minister will file his nomination papers Friday, seeking a second term in the Lok Sabha from the constituency.

Modi said he will not claim that whatever he had wished for the constituency had come true during the last five years. But the pace and the direction of its development are right, he said.

He said while the last five years of his government were about sincere effort, the next five years will be about results.

Earlier, Modi's roadshow drew a massive crowd.

Modi was joined by BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other senior BJP leaders in the temple town, on a day the Congress ended speculation over its leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting against him by announcing Ajay Rai's candidature. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism. In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 para-military men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror. Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives. The prime minister will file his nomination papers Friday, seeking a second term in the Lok Sabha from the constituency. Modi said he will not claim that whatever he had wished for the constituency had come true during the last five years. But the pace and the direction of its development are right, he said. He said while the last five years of his government were about sincere effort, the next five years will be about results. Earlier, Modi's roadshow drew a massive crowd. Modi was joined by BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other senior BJP leaders in the temple town, on a day the Congress ended speculation over its leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting against him by announcing Ajay Rai's candidature.

New India gives befitting reply to terror: PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rohit-shekhar-tiwari-murder-case-beyond-doubt-it-is-his-wife-she-has-confessed-says-delhi-additional-cp-213231">Rohit Shekhar Tiwari's wife</a> was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly "smothering and strangulating him in a fit of anger" following an argument over him drinking alcohol with his sister-in-law, police said.

Among the other triggers that led to the killing were a "turbulent and unhappy" married life and the fact that Rohit Shekhar was planning to give his share of the property to his sister-in-law's son, they added.

Rohit Shekhar, the son of late veteran politician N D Tiwari, was smothered to death on the intervening night of April 15 and 16, an autopsy report said.

"On the night of the incident, the couple had a fight over a relative. Rohit had been drinking all the way from Uttarakhand to Delhi and was not in a condition to resist.

During the fight, she pounced on him and smothered him," Rajeev Ranjan, Additional Commissioner (Crime), said.

During inquiry, it was found that Rohit, along with his mother and other relatives, went to Kathgodam in Uttarakhand to cast his vote on April 11 and returned by late evening on April 15, Ranjan said.

It was also learnt that he was drinking all the way along with the woman relative with whom he was returning in his car, the officer said.

After returning to Delhi late on April 15, they had dinner with Ujjwala, Rohit's mother, and other family members at around 11 pm. They both sat with Ujjwala and chatted with her.

Later, his mother and other relatives returned to their Tilak Lane bungalow and his servants also went to their room. His half brother, Siddharth, had also retired to his room, the officer said.

Next day, at around 2.30 pm, Rohit's mother came to his house asked about him where Apoorva said that he was sleeping. His mother did not disturb him as she knew that he had insomnia and he used to sleep late in the evening, Ranjan said.

Later at around 4 pm, one of his servants noticed that he was not responding and was bleeding through his nose, police said.

Rohit's mother was at Max Hospital in Saket for treatment when she received a call from home that he was unwell. She then took an ambulance that brought Rohit to the hospital.

He was declared brought dead and his body was sent for the postmortem to the AIIMS.

The autopsy was done by a board of five doctors on April 17 and the report revealed that Rohit was died due to asphyxiation as he was smothered and strangulated.

He died two hours after the last meal he had around 11 pm. He died around 1 am. The first floor of the house did not have CCTV cameras, police said.

Police were informed about the incident at around 6.55 pm on April 16.

After Rohit's autopsy report came out, a murder case was registered and the case was transferred. Thereafter, the case under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code was registered and the matter was shifted to the Crime Branch.

Rohit and Apoorva got married on May 11, 2018, after having courted each other for a year. They had met through a marriage portal, police said.

Immediately after their marriage, the couple seemed to have had a fallout and Apoorva had left for her parental home in Indore, police said.

Later from May 29, the distance between the two had steadily increased. Apoorva spent more time away from her husband's house in Defence Colony. They had an unhappy marriage. The matter had almost reached to the point of divorce and they had planned to part in June 2019, Ranjan said.

Only three people -&nbsp;Apoorva and two domestic helps - had access to Rohit's room and they all were interrogated. Police narrowed down on Apoorva after a series of interrogation sessions.

Eventually, after sustained interrogation, Apoorva broke down and admitted that he killed her husband. She had smothered and strangulated him on his bed on a fateful night, the police said, adding she stayed in the room for some time after the incident.

She later retired to her room where she could not sleep the entire night, said another officer.

Rohit and Apoorva had a turbulent marriage since day one and sources said that they both used to sleep in different rooms.

On April 15, Apoorva went to his room at around 12.45 am and they had a fight on that night after she got to know that Rohit was drinking with his sister-in-law.

After the heated argument, Apoorva allegedly strangulated and smothered him. When he tried to shout, she covered his mouth with her hand.

"She has confessed. As of now, from the fact and circumstances, it seems the killing was not pre-planned. The background was there that they had a turbulent marriage and Rohit Shekhar and his family were thinking of separation. All her hopes with the marriage were belied," Ranjan said.

According to the will of the family, Apoorva would not get anything from the property, police said, adding investigation in the case is in progress.

Ranjan did not share details of the evidence they have against Apoorva and only said they are in the thick of the investigation.&nbsp;

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari's wife was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly "smothering and strangulating him in a fit of anger" following an argument over him drinking alcohol with his sister-in-law, police said.

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari's wife was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly "smothering and strangulating him in a fit of anger" following an argument over him drinking alcohol with his sister-in-law, police said. Among the other triggers that led to the killing were a "turbulent and unhappy" married life and the fact that Rohit Shekhar was planning to give his share of the property to his sister-in-law's son, they added. Rohit Shekhar, the son of late veteran politician N D Tiwari, was smothered to death on the intervening night of April 15 and 16, an autopsy report said. "On the night of the incident, the couple had a fight over a relative. Rohit had been drinking all the way from Uttarakhand to Delhi and was not in a condition to resist. During the fight, she pounced on him and smothered him," Rajeev Ranjan, Additional Commissioner (Crime), said. During inquiry, it was found that Rohit, along with his mother and other relatives, went to Kathgodam in Uttarakhand to cast his vote on April 11 and returned by late evening on April 15, Ranjan said. It was also learnt that he was drinking all the way along with the woman relative with whom he was returning in his car, the officer said. After returning to Delhi late on April 15, they had dinner with Ujjwala, Rohit's mother, and other family members at around 11 pm. They both sat with Ujjwala and chatted with her. Later, his mother and other relatives returned to their Tilak Lane bungalow and his servants also went to their room. His half brother, Siddharth, had also retired to his room, the officer said. Next day, at around 2.30 pm, Rohit's mother came to his house asked about him where Apoorva said that he was sleeping. His mother did not disturb him as she knew that he had insomnia and he used to sleep late in the evening, Ranjan said. Later at around 4 pm, one of his servants noticed that he was not responding and was bleeding through his nose, police said. Rohit's mother was at Max Hospital in Saket for treatment when she received a call from home that he was unwell. She then took an ambulance that brought Rohit to the hospital. He was declared brought dead and his body was sent for the postmortem to the AIIMS. The autopsy was done by a board of five doctors on April 17 and the report revealed that Rohit was died due to asphyxiation as he was smothered and strangulated. He died two hours after the last meal he had around 11 pm. He died around 1 am. The first floor of the house did not have CCTV cameras, police said. Police were informed about the incident at around 6.55 pm on April 16. After Rohit's autopsy report came out, a murder case was registered and the case was transferred. Thereafter, the case under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code was registered and the matter was shifted to the Crime Branch. Rohit and Apoorva got married on May 11, 2018, after having courted each other for a year. They had met through a marriage portal, police said. Immediately after their marriage, the couple seemed to have had a fallout and Apoorva had left for her parental home in Indore, police said. Later from May 29, the distance between the two had steadily increased. Apoorva spent more time away from her husband's house in Defence Colony. They had an unhappy marriage. The matter had almost reached to the point of divorce and they had planned to part in June 2019, Ranjan said. Only three people - Apoorva and two domestic helps - had access to Rohit's room and they all were interrogated. Police narrowed down on Apoorva after a series of interrogation sessions. Eventually, after sustained interrogation, Apoorva broke down and admitted that he killed her husband. She had smothered and strangulated him on his bed on a fateful night, the police said, adding she stayed in the room for some time after the incident. She later retired to her room where she could not sleep the entire night, said another officer. Rohit and Apoorva had a turbulent marriage since day one and sources said that they both used to sleep in different rooms. On April 15, Apoorva went to his room at around 12.45 am and they had a fight on that night after she got to know that Rohit was drinking with his sister-in-law. After the heated argument, Apoorva allegedly strangulated and smothered him. When he tried to shout, she covered his mouth with her hand. "She has confessed. As of now, from the fact and circumstances, it seems the killing was not pre-planned. The background was there that they had a turbulent marriage and Rohit Shekhar and his family were thinking of separation. All her hopes with the marriage were belied," Ranjan said. According to the will of the family, Apoorva would not get anything from the property, police said, adding investigation in the case is in progress. Ranjan did not share details of the evidence they have against Apoorva and only said they are in the thick of the investigation.

Police arrest Rohit Shekhar Tiwari's wife for his murder, cites marital discord as motive 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-contesting-in-40-20-or-even-eight-seats-are-standing-in-queue-to-be-pm-modi-213371">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with&nbsp;thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name.

The roadshow was&nbsp;scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-file-nomination-on-april-26-security-beefed-up-in-wake-of-roadshow-today-213354">file his nomination paper</a> on Friday.

The PM's roadshow passed through the main areas of the temple town before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat where he participated in "Ganga Aarti".

After arriving at Varanasi's Babatpur airport, PM Modi headed to the helipad at Banaras Hindu University and took a car to reach Lanka, a place in the BHU.

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The roadshow began from Lanka and moved to Dashashwamedh Ghat.

The authorities had&nbsp;deployed small drones to keep an eye on the ongoing activities in the roadshow.

The roadshow is expected to have&nbsp;stretched over 7 km.&nbsp;

Before embarking on the roadshow PM Modi first paid respect to the statue of Madan Mohan Malviya at the location.
<img alt="Road show in Varanasi" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98b32554-2007-46bd-8003-6308e81fbb39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi%202.JPG" />
&nbsp;

PM Modi was accompanied by several senior leaders of the party including union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Piyush Goyal and others.

Varanasi will go the polls on May 19th in the seventh phase.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday undertook a mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi with thousands in attendance chanting the prime minister's name. The roadshow was scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to file his nomination paper on Friday. The PM's roadshow passed through the main areas of the temple town before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat where he participated in "Ganga Aarti". After arriving at Varanasi's Babatpur airport, PM Modi headed to the helipad at Banaras Hindu University and took a car to reach Lanka, a place in the BHU. × The roadshow began from Lanka and moved to Dashashwamedh Ghat. The authorities had deployed small drones to keep an eye on the ongoing activities in the roadshow. The roadshow is expected to have stretched over 7 km. Before embarking on the roadshow PM Modi first paid respect to the statue of Madan Mohan Malviya at the location. PM Modi was accompanied by several senior leaders of the party including union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Sushma Swaraj, Piyush Goyal and others. Varanasi will go the polls on May 19th in the seventh phase. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi performs Ganga aarti after roadshow in Varanasi

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) bench in Bengaluru&nbsp;Thursday stayed the Election Commission order suspending IAS officer Mohammed Mohsin for checking prime minister Narendra Modi's helicopter in Odisha.

The officer from Karnataka cadre, deployed in Odisha as a general observer, was suspended on April 17 for checking Modi's helicopter in Odisha's Sambalpur in "violation" of norms for dealing with SPG protectees and sent back to the state.

The CAT maintained that during an election process while reasonable assurances of protection and security must be made available to SPG protectees, it cannot be said "they are eligible for anything and everything."&nbsp;

The bench also ordered issue of notice to the EC and "four others" and posted the matter for further hearing on June 6.

Mohsin had tried to check some luggage in the convoy of the Prime Minister during his campaign visit and the EC had said he had acted in violation of its existing instructions.

In its order, CAT member (Judicial) Dr K B Suresh noted there was a circular regarding the SPG protectees that they are exempted from certain examinations on certain grounds.

"We will not go into the SPG protectees guidelines as per the bluebook right now, but the rule of law must prevail," he said.

The CAT also took note of the plea of the applicant's counsel who said there were news about heavy packages unloaded from prime minister's cavalcade being taken away in other vehicle.&nbsp;

Questions were raised but apparently no action followed, it said.

Noting that under the Constitutional process of federal structure, even though the EC has the supervisory powers over the employees under its control at that moment of time, the CAT said once they are out of it, the commission's powers would cease.

The tribunal said&nbsp;"Therefore the suspension order issued by the election commission cannot, on the face of it, lie. It is hereby stayed."

However, the CAT said it would look into this matter afresh once it received the response from the EC.

The tribunal said the applicant will be eligible to rejoin his former position under the Karnataka government "without any further ado about it".

Following the suspension, an EC source had said,&nbsp;"It has been laid down that SPG protectees are exempted from checking. He (the officer) should have known the instruction being an observer. The reason for suspension is dereliction of duty."&nbsp;

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) bench in Bengaluru Thursday stayed the Election Commission order suspending IAS officer Mohammed Mohsin for checking prime minister Narendra Modi's helicopter in Odisha.

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) bench in Bengaluru Thursday stayed the Election Commission order suspending IAS officer Mohammed Mohsin for checking prime minister Narendra Modi's helicopter in Odisha. The officer from Karnataka cadre, deployed in Odisha as a general observer, was suspended on April 17 for checking Modi's helicopter in Odisha's Sambalpur in "violation" of norms for dealing with SPG protectees and sent back to the state. The CAT maintained that during an election process while reasonable assurances of protection and security must be made available to SPG protectees, it cannot be said "they are eligible for anything and everything." The bench also ordered issue of notice to the EC and "four others" and posted the matter for further hearing on June 6. Mohsin had tried to check some luggage in the convoy of the Prime Minister during his campaign visit and the EC had said he had acted in violation of its existing instructions. In its order, CAT member (Judicial) Dr K B Suresh noted there was a circular regarding the SPG protectees that they are exempted from certain examinations on certain grounds. "We will not go into the SPG protectees guidelines as per the bluebook right now, but the rule of law must prevail," he said. The CAT also took note of the plea of the applicant's counsel who said there were news about heavy packages unloaded from prime minister's cavalcade being taken away in other vehicle. Questions were raised but apparently no action followed, it said. Noting that under the Constitutional process of federal structure, even though the EC has the supervisory powers over the employees under its control at that moment of time, the CAT said once they are out of it, the commission's powers would cease. The tribunal said "Therefore the suspension order issued by the election commission cannot, on the face of it, lie. It is hereby stayed." However, the CAT said it would look into this matter afresh once it received the response from the EC. The tribunal said the applicant will be eligible to rejoin his former position under the Karnataka government "without any further ado about it". Following the suspension, an EC source had said, "It has been laid down that SPG protectees are exempted from checking. He (the officer) should have known the instruction being an observer. The reason for suspension is dereliction of duty."

Central Administrative Tribunal stays suspension of IAS officer who checked PM's copter

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Bagender Mohalla of Bijbehara in South Kashmir`s Anantnag district on Thursday.

On a credible input, a cordon and search operation was launched in Anantnag by police and security forces.&nbsp;

During searches, terrorists fired upon the search party. The fire was retaliated leading to an encounter.&nbsp;

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Visuals from Bagender Mohalla of Bijbehara in Anantnag where two terrorists were neutralized in an encounter with security forces. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/G9JYNFoGXh">pic.twitter.com/G9JYNFoGXh</a>
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During the encounter, two terrorists were killed and their bodies were retrieved.&nbsp;

Their identities and affiliations are being ascertained. Further search in the area is going on.&nbsp;

Incriminating material including arms and ammunition was recovered from them. Police have registered a case.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Bagender Mohalla of Bijbehara in South Kashmir`s Anantnag district on Thursday. On a credible input, a cordon and search operation was launched in Anantnag by police and security forces.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Bagender Mohalla of Bijbehara in South Kashmir`s Anantnag district on Thursday. On a credible input, a cordon and search operation was launched in Anantnag by police and security forces. During searches, terrorists fired upon the search party. The fire was retaliated leading to an encounter. Jammu & Kashmir: Visuals from Bagender Mohalla of Bijbehara in Anantnag where two terrorists were neutralized in an encounter with security forces. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/G9JYNFoGXh — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2019 × During the encounter, two terrorists were killed and their bodies were retrieved. Their identities and affiliations are being ascertained. Further search in the area is going on. Incriminating material including arms and ammunition was recovered from them. Police have registered a case.

J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Anantnag

Trouble is brewing again for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-coalition-is-a-20-commission-government-pm-modi-209866">coalition government in the South Indian state of Karnataka</a> as another MLA has assured he will be resigning from the Congress party over differences.

Ramesh Jarkiholi, the MLA from Gokak constituency, and the leader who led the rebellion in January this year has&nbsp;said he will soon be quitting the Congress. Ramesh was also seen campaigning for the BJP in the run-up to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-karnataka-to-witness-neck-to-neck-contests-211263">Lok Sabha elections</a>.

'I have not quit the Congress, but will be doing it soon. I will contest from Yemkanmardi seat in the next assembly elections. When Ramesh Katti had rebelled against the BJP, Yeddyurappa immediately reached out to pacify him. No one from the Congress has reached out to me' said Ramesh while speaking in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

The statement comes days after BJP State Chief BS Yeddyurappa had expressed confidence that the coalition government will crumble after the Lok Sabha elections.

While there is no clear figure on how many rebel MLAs are with Ramesh Jarkiholi, sources within the BJP claim that the figure is enough to topple the HD Kumaraswamy government.

Satish Jarkiholi, Ramesh's brother, who replaced him in the state cabinet, has thrown an open challenge to the dissenting MLA.

'He has been threatening to quit for a year. We do not know why he is disgruntled. He might ask the BJP to give him a ticket and make him a minister. We are waiting for the speaker to take the decision on the disqualification of dissenting MLAs' said Satish Jarkiholi.&nbsp;

The Congress currently has 78 MLAs after the demise of CH Shivalli and resignation of Umesh Jadhav. Along with the JD(S) and one independent the coalition government has 116 MLAs in a 225 member house. If Ramesh Jarkiholi exits with 4 other MLAs as claimed, then the house strength comes down along with the number of the coalition government.

However, the Kumaraswamy government can still function as a minority government if it can get more votes in its favour than against.&nbsp;

BJP is also banking on the two by-elections to be held on May 19 in Chincholi and Kundgol. Also, if sitting MLAs Eshwar Khandre and Krishna Byre Gowda manage to win Lok Sabha elections, two more constituencies will go for by-polls&nbsp;in the state. If the saffron party manages to win all four seats, then along with the support of one independent it will have 109 MLAs on its side.

Another fear for the coalition government will be the outcomes of elections in Mandya and Tumkur, where HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil and HD Deve Gowda are contesting elections amidst rebellion within the Congress cadres.

If the Congress fails to transfer votes to the JD(S) in these crucial constituencies, the rift within the coalition will only get deeper.

'The results of the elections will clearly be an indication on whether this government will continue or not. There could be a threat to the state government if the BJP succeeds in Karnataka and at the national level. Big question marks will then rise on the state government. If the Congress-JD(S) do not do well in Karnataka, there are serious questions going to be raised. If they do well in the state, but BJP does well in the national level, they might survive but there will be constant hiccups.' says Sandeep Shastri, Political Analyst.&nbsp;

All eyes are now on Lok Sabha election results on May 23 that could not only decide the fate of the nation, but also the Karnataka state coalition government. If the situation arrives and the government fails to prove majority on the floor of the house, BS Yeddyurappa might prefer to go for fresh elections in the South Indian state.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Trouble is brewing again for the coalition government in the South Indian state of Karnataka as another MLA has assured he will be resigning from the Congress party over differences.

Trouble is brewing again for the coalition government in the South Indian state of Karnataka as another MLA has assured he will be resigning from the Congress party over differences. Ramesh Jarkiholi, the MLA from Gokak constituency, and the leader who led the rebellion in January this year has said he will soon be quitting the Congress. Ramesh was also seen campaigning for the BJP in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections. 'I have not quit the Congress, but will be doing it soon. I will contest from Yemkanmardi seat in the next assembly elections. When Ramesh Katti had rebelled against the BJP, Yeddyurappa immediately reached out to pacify him. No one from the Congress has reached out to me' said Ramesh while speaking in Bengaluru. The statement comes days after BJP State Chief BS Yeddyurappa had expressed confidence that the coalition government will crumble after the Lok Sabha elections. While there is no clear figure on how many rebel MLAs are with Ramesh Jarkiholi, sources within the BJP claim that the figure is enough to topple the HD Kumaraswamy government. Satish Jarkiholi, Ramesh's brother, who replaced him in the state cabinet, has thrown an open challenge to the dissenting MLA. 'He has been threatening to quit for a year. We do not know why he is disgruntled. He might ask the BJP to give him a ticket and make him a minister. We are waiting for the speaker to take the decision on the disqualification of dissenting MLAs' said Satish Jarkiholi. The Congress currently has 78 MLAs after the demise of CH Shivalli and resignation of Umesh Jadhav. Along with the JD(S) and one independent the coalition government has 116 MLAs in a 225 member house. If Ramesh Jarkiholi exits with 4 other MLAs as claimed, then the house strength comes down along with the number of the coalition government. However, the Kumaraswamy government can still function as a minority government if it can get more votes in its favour than against. BJP is also banking on the two by-elections to be held on May 19 in Chincholi and Kundgol. Also, if sitting MLAs Eshwar Khandre and Krishna Byre Gowda manage to win Lok Sabha elections, two more constituencies will go for by-polls in the state. If the saffron party manages to win all four seats, then along with the support of one independent it will have 109 MLAs on its side. Another fear for the coalition government will be the outcomes of elections in Mandya and Tumkur, where HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil and HD Deve Gowda are contesting elections amidst rebellion within the Congress cadres. If the Congress fails to transfer votes to the JD(S) in these crucial constituencies, the rift within the coalition will only get deeper. 'The results of the elections will clearly be an indication on whether this government will continue or not. There could be a threat to the state government if the BJP succeeds in Karnataka and at the national level. Big question marks will then rise on the state government. If the Congress-JD(S) do not do well in Karnataka, there are serious questions going to be raised. If they do well in the state, but BJP does well in the national level, they might survive but there will be constant hiccups.' says Sandeep Shastri, Political Analyst. All eyes are now on Lok Sabha election results on May 23 that could not only decide the fate of the nation, but also the Karnataka state coalition government. If the situation arrives and the government fails to prove majority on the floor of the house, BS Yeddyurappa might prefer to go for fresh elections in the South Indian state.

Lok Sabha results to decide fate of Karnataka's coalition

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-mega-roadshow-in-varanasi-213438">PM Modi begins mega roadshow in Varanasi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;started his mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi&nbsp;today as thousands attended chanting the prime minister's name. The roadshow&nbsp;is scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to&nbsp;file his nomination paper&nbsp;on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-needs-security-guarantees-in-exchange-for-denuclearisation-says-putin-after-meeting-kim-213419">North Korea needs 'security guarantees' in exchange for denuclearisation, says Putin after meeting Kim</a>

As Russian President Putin and North Korean leader&nbsp;Kim&nbsp;Jong-un met in Vladivostok&nbsp;with hopes of strengthing ties, the Russian president said North Korea needs security guarantees and denuclearisation could only be achieved through international law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/leader-of-the-group-committed-suicide-at-shangri-la-hotel-police-213412">Leader of the group committed suicide at Shangri-la hotel: Police</a>

Four days after the Easter Sunday blasts, Sri Lankan authorities revealed new details&nbsp;about the suicide bombers&nbsp;who carried out attacks on churches and hotels in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-vice-president-joe-biden-enters-2020-presidential-race-213423">Former US Vice President Joe Biden enters 2020 presidential race</a>

Former US Vice President Joe Biden on Thursday formally announced his entry into the race for the Democratic party's presidential nomination for the 2020 election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-protests-as-french-warship-passes-through-taiwan-strait-213434">China protests as French warship passes through Taiwan Strait</a>

A French warship passed through the strategic&nbsp;Taiwan Strait&nbsp;this month&nbsp;as France on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to "freedom of navigation under maritime law" following a spat with China over the passage of a French warship through the Taiwan Strait earlier this month.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

PM Modi begins mega roadshow in Varanasi Prime Minister Narendra Modi started his mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi today as thousands attended chanting the prime minister's name.

PM Modi begins mega roadshow in Varanasi Prime Minister Narendra Modi started his mega roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi today as thousands attended chanting the prime minister's name. The roadshow is scheduled for a day before PM Modi sets out to file his nomination paper on Friday. North Korea needs 'security guarantees' in exchange for denuclearisation, says Putin after meeting Kim As Russian President Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met in Vladivostok with hopes of strengthing ties, the Russian president said North Korea needs security guarantees and denuclearisation could only be achieved through international law. Leader of the group committed suicide at Shangri-la hotel: Police Four days after the Easter Sunday blasts, Sri Lankan authorities revealed new details about the suicide bombers who carried out attacks on churches and hotels in the country. Former US Vice President Joe Biden enters 2020 presidential race Former US Vice President Joe Biden on Thursday formally announced his entry into the race for the Democratic party's presidential nomination for the 2020 election. China protests as French warship passes through Taiwan Strait A French warship passed through the strategic Taiwan Strait this month as France on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to "freedom of navigation under maritime law" following a spat with China over the passage of a French warship through the Taiwan Strait earlier this month.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The PM's roadshow will pass through the main areas of the temple town before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat where he will participate in "Ganga Aarti".

Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a roadshow

1993 Mumbai serial blast convict Abdul Gani Turk passed away on Thursday in Nagpur`s GMC Hospital.

Turk had been sentenced to death in 2017 for his role in planting a bomb at the Century Bazar.

The other places where blasts occurred were Bombay Stock Exchange, Katha Bazaar, Lucky petrol pump near Sena Bhavan, Fishermen`s colony at Mahim Causeway, Air India Building, Zaveri Bazaar, Hotel Sea Rock, Plaza Theatre, Centaur Hotel in Juhu, Centaur Hotel near the airport and Sahar Airport.

Turk was lodged in Nagpur Central Jail.&nbsp;

1993 Mumbai serial blast convict Abdul Gani Turk passed away on Thursday in Nagpur`s GMC Hospital. Turk had been sentenced to death in 2017 for his role in planting a bomb at the Century Bazar.

1993 Mumbai serial blast convict Abdul Gani Turk passed away on Thursday in Nagpur`s GMC Hospital. Turk had been sentenced to death in 2017 for his role in planting a bomb at the Century Bazar. The other places where blasts occurred were Bombay Stock Exchange, Katha Bazaar, Lucky petrol pump near Sena Bhavan, Fishermen`s colony at Mahim Causeway, Air India Building, Zaveri Bazaar, Hotel Sea Rock, Plaza Theatre, Centaur Hotel in Juhu, Centaur Hotel near the airport and Sahar Airport. Turk was lodged in Nagpur Central Jail.

1993 Mumbai blast convict Abdul Gani Turk passes away

Highlighting the airstrike carried by the Indian Air Force on JeM camp in Pakistan’s Balakot, BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/alliances-prove-our-strength-amit-shah-on-sp-bsp-coming-together-194602">BSP supremo Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav</a> and asked them whether they were related to terrorists.

While addressing a rally in Ghazipur, Shah said when the airstrike was carried out, the whole country was celebrating it, however, there was mourning in two places – one in Pakistan and the other in offices of Rahul, Mayawati and Akhilesh.

“Mujhe maloom nahi padta, aatankwadi Pakistan ke mare, inke chehre ka nor kyo chala gaya? Kyo bhai ye chachere-mamere bhai lagte hai kya apke? Apke chehre ka nor chala gaya (I don’t underway why they got sad when Pakistan’s terrorists were killed),” Shah said.

“We belong to the BJP and Narendra Modi is our Prime Minister, we can’t do ‘ILU-ILU’ with terrorists. Nobody can play with the security of this nation,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-scrap-a-370-once-bjp-gets-majority-in-parliament-amit-shah-211926">Amit Shah</a> also criticised Rahul Gandhi for staying mum on National Conference leader Omar Abdullah’s demand for having a separate Prime Minister for Jammu and Kashmir.

“Today is the 14th day of me asking Rahul Gandhi on what he has to say regarding Omar Adullah’s statement on two Prime Ministers for the country. He is quiet. He is thinking of vote bank. Narendra Modi will become the Prime Minister again. If one day we won’t have the power, and BJP people will sit in Opposition, till there is even one BJP worker, nobody can separate Kashmir from India,” he said.

Later he added, “Till the time BJP is there, those who shout slogans for dividing India will find themselves behind the bars.”

Highlighting the airstrike carried by the Indian Air Force on JeM camp in Pakistan’s Balakot, BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi, BSP supremo Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav and asked them whether they were related to terrorists.

Highlighting the airstrike carried by the Indian Air Force on JeM camp in Pakistan’s Balakot, BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi, BSP supremo Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav and asked them whether they were related to terrorists. While addressing a rally in Ghazipur, Shah said when the airstrike was carried out, the whole country was celebrating it, however, there was mourning in two places – one in Pakistan and the other in offices of Rahul, Mayawati and Akhilesh. “Mujhe maloom nahi padta, aatankwadi Pakistan ke mare, inke chehre ka nor kyo chala gaya? Kyo bhai ye chachere-mamere bhai lagte hai kya apke? Apke chehre ka nor chala gaya (I don’t underway why they got sad when Pakistan’s terrorists were killed),” Shah said. “We belong to the BJP and Narendra Modi is our Prime Minister, we can’t do ‘ILU-ILU’ with terrorists. Nobody can play with the security of this nation,” he added. Amit Shah also criticised Rahul Gandhi for staying mum on National Conference leader Omar Abdullah’s demand for having a separate Prime Minister for Jammu and Kashmir. “Today is the 14th day of me asking Rahul Gandhi on what he has to say regarding Omar Adullah’s statement on two Prime Ministers for the country. He is quiet. He is thinking of vote bank. Narendra Modi will become the Prime Minister again. If one day we won’t have the power, and BJP people will sit in Opposition, till there is even one BJP worker, nobody can separate Kashmir from India,” he said. Later he added, “Till the time BJP is there, those who shout slogans for dividing India will find themselves behind the bars.”

Are terrorists your relatives? Amit Shah asks Rahul, Mayawati and Akhilesh

Opening up a new avenue for females, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-army-gets-first-batch-of-dhanush-artillery-guns-208834">Indian Army</a> on Thursday kicked off the process of inducting women as soldiers by starting their online registration for recruitment in the corps of military police.

This is being seen as a major breakthrough for women in armed forces as so far, they were being inducted only as officers and this is the first time they would be taken in as soldiers.

"Online registration will start today for the recruitment of women as jawans and the last date for it is June 8. The project was first mooted by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/strengthening-indias-cyber-security-indian-army-chief-says-need-to-address-cyber-threats-147480">Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat </a>soon after he took charge of the force," Army officials said.

The decks for the induction were cleared in January this year after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the military police with an aim to enhance their representation in the three services.

Women will be inducted in a graded manner to eventually comprise 20 per cent of total Corps of Military Police and their role would range from probing crime cases to assisting the Army in field operations wherever required.

Last year, Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat had said the process to allow women in a combat role, currently, an exclusive domain of men was moving fast and initially, women will be recruited for positions in Military Police.

Accordingly, the Army chalked out induction of approximately 800 women in military police with a yearly intake of 52 personnel per year.

Currently, women are allowed in select areas such as medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army.

The role of the military police includes policing cantonments and Army establishments, preventing the breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police.

As per government data, the Army has 3.80 per cent of its workforce as women, the Air Force has 13.09 per cent and the Navy six per cent.&nbsp;

Opening up a new avenue for females, the Indian Army on Thursday kicked off the process of inducting women as soldiers by starting their online registration for recruitment in the corps of military police.

Opening up a new avenue for females, the Indian Army on Thursday kicked off the process of inducting women as soldiers by starting their online registration for recruitment in the corps of military police. This is being seen as a major breakthrough for women in armed forces as so far, they were being inducted only as officers and this is the first time they would be taken in as soldiers. "Online registration will start today for the recruitment of women as jawans and the last date for it is June 8. The project was first mooted by Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat soon after he took charge of the force," Army officials said. The decks for the induction were cleared in January this year after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the military police with an aim to enhance their representation in the three services. Women will be inducted in a graded manner to eventually comprise 20 per cent of total Corps of Military Police and their role would range from probing crime cases to assisting the Army in field operations wherever required. Last year, Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat had said the process to allow women in a combat role, currently, an exclusive domain of men was moving fast and initially, women will be recruited for positions in Military Police. Accordingly, the Army chalked out induction of approximately 800 women in military police with a yearly intake of 52 personnel per year. Currently, women are allowed in select areas such as medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army. The role of the military police includes policing cantonments and Army establishments, preventing the breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police. As per government data, the Army has 3.80 per cent of its workforce as women, the Air Force has 13.09 per cent and the Navy six per cent.

Army starts process to induct women as soldiers in military police

India's most populated city and commercial capital of the country is all set to elect its parliamentarians.

All the six constituencies of the city are Mumbai South, Mumbai South Central, Mumbai North, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai North East and Mumbai North West.

In all the six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai, the direct fight is between the candidates of BJP-Shiv Sena alliance and the Congress-NCP combine.

BJP and Shiv Sena are contesting three seats each—Mumbai North Central, North and North East for BJP, and Mumbai South, South Central and North West for the Shiv Sena.

The Congress is contesting five seats and the NCP has fielded its candidate in Mumbai North East.

NCP's Sanjay Dina Patil will face BJP's newcomer Manoj Kotak in Mumbai North East.

In South Mumbai, the principal contest will be between Arvind Sawant (Sena) and Milind Deora (Congress), though BJP's Poonam Mahajan is in an intense fight against Priya Dutt (Congress) in North Central Mumbai constituency. Gajanan Kirtikar (Shiv Sena) and Congress' Sanjay Nirupam are fighting it out in the North West Mumbai constituency, though the candidature of Urmila Matondkar from Congress has made it an intriguing fight with regards to North Mumbai constituency against BJP's Gopal Shetty.

Meanwhile, Raj Thackeray's MNS is not directly contesting the elections but he is indirectly helping the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), candidates.

In fact, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief has emerged as the biggest star campaigner for Congress-NCP coalition.

Two strong women leaders are fighting it out in Mumbai North Central seat, the sitting Bharatiya Janata Party MP Poonam Mahajan is pitted against the Congress' two-time former member of Parliament Priya Dutt Roncon.

This is the only constituency in Mumbai where voters will choose between two main women contenders.

Poonam Mahajan and Priya Dutt both hail from influential political families.

Poonam is the daughter of the late Union minister Pramod Mahajan and niece of the late Union minister Gopinath Munde.

Priya is the daughter of the late Union minister Sunil Dutt and her mother, Nargis, was an actor and former Rajya Sabha member.

Mumbai rode the Modi wave in 2014 General Elections and went completely saffron. The city&nbsp;has a large concentration of film stars, personalities from the glamour world, celebrities and business tycoons.

However, Hindi film industry is playing a lead role in Modi’s campaign for a second term, endorsing him on-screen and off, in both subtle and obvious ways, in a marked shift from the more transactional relationship Indian film stars previously had with politicians.

The question ahead of April 29 is whether the city is ready to give PM Modi another shot or is it prepared for a change.

India's most populated city and commercial capital of the country is all set to elect its parliamentarians. All the six constituencies of the city are Mumbai South, Mumbai South Central, Mumbai North, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai North East and Mumbai North West.

India's most populated city and commercial capital of the country is all set to elect its parliamentarians. All the six constituencies of the city are Mumbai South, Mumbai South Central, Mumbai North, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai North East and Mumbai North West. In all the six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai, the direct fight is between the candidates of BJP-Shiv Sena alliance and the Congress-NCP combine. BJP and Shiv Sena are contesting three seats each—Mumbai North Central, North and North East for BJP, and Mumbai South, South Central and North West for the Shiv Sena. The Congress is contesting five seats and the NCP has fielded its candidate in Mumbai North East. NCP's Sanjay Dina Patil will face BJP's newcomer Manoj Kotak in Mumbai North East. In South Mumbai, the principal contest will be between Arvind Sawant (Sena) and Milind Deora (Congress), though BJP's Poonam Mahajan is in an intense fight against Priya Dutt (Congress) in North Central Mumbai constituency. Gajanan Kirtikar (Shiv Sena) and Congress' Sanjay Nirupam are fighting it out in the North West Mumbai constituency, though the candidature of Urmila Matondkar from Congress has made it an intriguing fight with regards to North Mumbai constituency against BJP's Gopal Shetty. Meanwhile, Raj Thackeray's MNS is not directly contesting the elections but he is indirectly helping the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), candidates. In fact, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief has emerged as the biggest star campaigner for Congress-NCP coalition. Two strong women leaders are fighting it out in Mumbai North Central seat, the sitting Bharatiya Janata Party MP Poonam Mahajan is pitted against the Congress' two-time former member of Parliament Priya Dutt Roncon. This is the only constituency in Mumbai where voters will choose between two main women contenders. Poonam Mahajan and Priya Dutt both hail from influential political families. Poonam is the daughter of the late Union minister Pramod Mahajan and niece of the late Union minister Gopinath Munde. Priya is the daughter of the late Union minister Sunil Dutt and her mother, Nargis, was an actor and former Rajya Sabha member. Mumbai rode the Modi wave in 2014 General Elections and went completely saffron. The city has a large concentration of film stars, personalities from the glamour world, celebrities and business tycoons. However, Hindi film industry is playing a lead role in Modi’s campaign for a second term, endorsing him on-screen and off, in both subtle and obvious ways, in a marked shift from the more transactional relationship Indian film stars previously had with politicians. The question ahead of April 29 is whether the city is ready to give PM Modi another shot or is it prepared for a change.

Mumbai: India's most populous city goes to vote on April 29

Bihar's Begusarai is set for an interesting electoral battle in the fourth phase of election scheduled for April 29. While the BJP has fielded Union minister Giriaj Singh, the Left Front has pitted Kanhaiya Kumar against him.

Begusarai is referred to as Leningrad of Bihar - Leftists equate the city with Leningrad as the cradle of revolution.

Begusarai, though with the BJP now, has seen a very long association with the Left - starting in the 1930s when the landless villagers revolted against the land owners and seized their land. The association continued for decades.

This is the same reason why the Left is backing Kanhaiya Kumar who, in 2016, spoke against the establishment (the Centre) vowing to free the society of various social evils as a Jawaharlal Nehru student. The Left is determined to oust the BJP government at the Centre and have found their 'Che' in the form of Kanhaiya. The Communist Party of India (CPI) has claimed that Kanhaiya was getting "excellent" support from all segments of the society.

An energetic campaign has propelled Kanhaiya Kumar into the centrestage of electoral contest in Begusarai but many see his rising graph posing a bigger threat to the opposition RJD than the ruling BJP.

Speculations have been rife that RJD founding president Lalu Prasad had initially thought of backing Kanhaiya whom he had applauded for having displayed fortitude while he was accused of sedition and put behind bars. But, he retracted at the instance of his younger son Tejashwi Yadav who said the CPI nominee belonged to the Bhumihar caste and hence supporting him may anger the party's own cadre which is dominated by Yadavs and Muslims.

Interestingly, Giriraj Singh also belongs to the Bhumihar caste. Known for his hardline views that have often triggered controversies, Singh said his fight from this parliamentary constituency is against a "gang" working for "breaking up" India, and asserted that he represents the agenda of cultural nationalism and development.

Singh had publicly expressed his anguish over the shift but was placated by the central leadership with party president Amit Shah himself reaching out to him.

Singh asserted the BJP-led NDA would improve its 2014 tally of 31 seats in Bihar (which has total 40 Lok Sabha seats) and it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself who is the alliance candidate on every seat and all contesting leaders "are his symbols".

The BJP supporters in Begusarai and other Lok Sabha seats in the region assert that the appeal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains a big draw for voters, while the opposition's alliance is hoping to counter it with its social arithmetic at several places.

If the Modi factor is powering the BJP's campaign, the alliance of the Lalu Prasad's RJD, Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP and the Congress is betting on a formidable social equation in these seats, including Ujiarpur, where Kushwaha is taking on Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai to make the going difficult for the saffron party.

Both Ujiarpur and Begusarai were won by the BJP in 2014.

In the 2014 polls, BJP's Bhola Singh, who died in October last year, had defeated Lalu Prasad-led RJD's Tanveer Hasan, who is again in the fray, with a margin of 5.4 per cent votes (more than 58,000). The JD(U)-backed CPI had finished a distant third with near 93,000 votes. Singh had got over 4.29 lakh votes.

Bihar's Begusarai is set for an interesting electoral battle in the fourth phase of election scheduled for April 29. While the BJP has fielded Union minister Giriaj Singh, the Left Front has pitted Kanhaiya Kumar against him.

Bihar's Begusarai is set for an interesting electoral battle in the fourth phase of election scheduled for April 29. While the BJP has fielded Union minister Giriaj Singh, the Left Front has pitted Kanhaiya Kumar against him. Begusarai is referred to as Leningrad of Bihar - Leftists equate the city with Leningrad as the cradle of revolution. Begusarai, though with the BJP now, has seen a very long association with the Left - starting in the 1930s when the landless villagers revolted against the land owners and seized their land. The association continued for decades. This is the same reason why the Left is backing Kanhaiya Kumar who, in 2016, spoke against the establishment (the Centre) vowing to free the society of various social evils as a Jawaharlal Nehru student. The Left is determined to oust the BJP government at the Centre and have found their 'Che' in the form of Kanhaiya. The Communist Party of India (CPI) has claimed that Kanhaiya was getting "excellent" support from all segments of the society. An energetic campaign has propelled Kanhaiya Kumar into the centrestage of electoral contest in Begusarai but many see his rising graph posing a bigger threat to the opposition RJD than the ruling BJP. Speculations have been rife that RJD founding president Lalu Prasad had initially thought of backing Kanhaiya whom he had applauded for having displayed fortitude while he was accused of sedition and put behind bars. But, he retracted at the instance of his younger son Tejashwi Yadav who said the CPI nominee belonged to the Bhumihar caste and hence supporting him may anger the party's own cadre which is dominated by Yadavs and Muslims. Interestingly, Giriraj Singh also belongs to the Bhumihar caste. Known for his hardline views that have often triggered controversies, Singh said his fight from this parliamentary constituency is against a "gang" working for "breaking up" India, and asserted that he represents the agenda of cultural nationalism and development. Singh had publicly expressed his anguish over the shift but was placated by the central leadership with party president Amit Shah himself reaching out to him. Singh asserted the BJP-led NDA would improve its 2014 tally of 31 seats in Bihar (which has total 40 Lok Sabha seats) and it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself who is the alliance candidate on every seat and all contesting leaders "are his symbols". The BJP supporters in Begusarai and other Lok Sabha seats in the region assert that the appeal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains a big draw for voters, while the opposition's alliance is hoping to counter it with its social arithmetic at several places. If the Modi factor is powering the BJP's campaign, the alliance of the Lalu Prasad's RJD, Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP and the Congress is betting on a formidable social equation in these seats, including Ujiarpur, where Kushwaha is taking on Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai to make the going difficult for the saffron party. Both Ujiarpur and Begusarai were won by the BJP in 2014. In the 2014 polls, BJP's Bhola Singh, who died in October last year, had defeated Lalu Prasad-led RJD's Tanveer Hasan, who is again in the fray, with a margin of 5.4 per cent votes (more than 58,000). The JD(U)-backed CPI had finished a distant third with near 93,000 votes. Singh had got over 4.29 lakh votes.

Lok Sabha polls phase 4: Kanhaiya Kumar vs Giriraj Singh in Bihar's Begusarai

With the Lok Sabha campaign gaining momentum in Mumbai, the Congress faces an uphill task of reviving itself in five constituencies in India's financial capital where it had drawn a blank in 2014.

What has made its job difficult is the BJP sealing a pre-poll alliance with the Shiv Sena despite the strained relations between the two saffron allies.

Of the six seats in Mumbai, the Congress is contesting five and its ally NCP is contesting one. From one of them - Mumbai North - the party has fielded actor Urmila Matondkar against sitting BJP MP Gopal Shetty. Shetty had defeated Congress's Sanjay Nirupam by a massive 4.46 lakh votes in 2014.

In the past, the Congress had fielded Bollywood actor Govinda from Mumbai North, which he won. According to sources in the Congress, the party was looking for a known face to take on Shetty, perceived as being a strong candidate and the search ended with Urmila Matondkar.

Matondkar has launched an impressive campaign, reaching out to voters as well as party workers. She is also being seen as articulate.

The BJP, meanwhile, is highlighting her marriage with a Kashmiri businessman and is demanding to know her views on Article 370 and 35-A, two laws specific to the restive northern state.

BJP leader Ram Naik, currently the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, had represented the Mumbai North constituency between 1989 and 1999.

Naik's winning streak came to an end in 2004, when actor Govinda defeated him.

Govinda didn't fight the 2009 election, which was successfully contested by Nirupam.

Mumbai has six Lok Sabha seats and all of them will go to polls on April 29.

With the Lok Sabha campaign gaining momentum in Mumbai, the Congress faces an uphill task of reviving itself in five constituencies in India's financial capital where it had drawn a blank in 2014.

With the Lok Sabha campaign gaining momentum in Mumbai, the Congress faces an uphill task of reviving itself in five constituencies in India's financial capital where it had drawn a blank in 2014. What has made its job difficult is the BJP sealing a pre-poll alliance with the Shiv Sena despite the strained relations between the two saffron allies. Of the six seats in Mumbai, the Congress is contesting five and its ally NCP is contesting one. From one of them - Mumbai North - the party has fielded actor Urmila Matondkar against sitting BJP MP Gopal Shetty. Shetty had defeated Congress's Sanjay Nirupam by a massive 4.46 lakh votes in 2014. In the past, the Congress had fielded Bollywood actor Govinda from Mumbai North, which he won. According to sources in the Congress, the party was looking for a known face to take on Shetty, perceived as being a strong candidate and the search ended with Urmila Matondkar. Matondkar has launched an impressive campaign, reaching out to voters as well as party workers. She is also being seen as articulate. The BJP, meanwhile, is highlighting her marriage with a Kashmiri businessman and is demanding to know her views on Article 370 and 35-A, two laws specific to the restive northern state. BJP leader Ram Naik, currently the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, had represented the Mumbai North constituency between 1989 and 1999. Naik's winning streak came to an end in 2004, when actor Govinda defeated him. Govinda didn't fight the 2009 election, which was successfully contested by Nirupam. Mumbai has six Lok Sabha seats and all of them will go to polls on April 29.

Mumbai North: Urmila Matondkar makes electoral debut against giant Gopal Shetty

Comparisons are inevitable perhaps but also unfair, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul Nath who makes his political debut as the Congress's Lok Sabha candidate from a seat that has long been identified with his father.

The MBA graduate from Boston and Doon School alumnus said he wants to take forward the Chhindwara model of development established by his father, a nine-time MP from the constituency, and asked for some time to prove himself.

His aim will be to push for the maximum number of jobs for the youth if he wins.

The 44-year-old son of the Congress stalwart said it will be unfair to make comparisons between him and his father who has been in electoral politics for 40 years.

"I have less experience than my father. This is the fifth election that I am campaigning in, the last being the 2018 assembly elections in the state. Give me sometime and I will prove myself," Nakul Nath said.

In his view, unemployment is the "biggest problem" in the area.

"My aim is to bring industries so youth and talented manpower does not leave the region. I want that the people of the area get jobs here itself," he said.

Nakul Nath is pitted against BJP's tribal leader and former MLA Nathan Shah Kavreti. Kavreti started his career with the RSS and is a well-known face in the area. He won the Assembly election in 2013 from Junnardeo in Chhindwara. Though he was not given a ticket in 2018 Assembly election, the BJP decided to try out the Scheduled Cast leader against Nakul Nath.

The Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency with seven assembly seats will vote on April 29, the first of the four-phase polls in Madhya Pradesh. Chief Minister Kamal Nath is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government. To facilitate his entry into the MP Assembly, Chhindwara MLA Dipak Saxena had resigned from the seat.

The seat has been a Congress bastion since 1957. The only time the party lost it to the BJP was in the 1997 by-election when BJP candidate and former state chief minister Sunder Lal Patna won.

In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three of the state's 29 seats. Kamal Nath defeated BJP's Chandrabhan Kuber Singh by a margin of 116,537 votes from Chhindwara. The Lok Sabha seat has over 15,12,000 voters.

Comparisons are inevitable perhaps but also unfair, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul Nath who makes his political debut as the Congress's Lok Sabha candidate from a seat that has long been identified with his father.

Comparisons are inevitable perhaps but also unfair, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul Nath who makes his political debut as the Congress's Lok Sabha candidate from a seat that has long been identified with his father. The MBA graduate from Boston and Doon School alumnus said he wants to take forward the Chhindwara model of development established by his father, a nine-time MP from the constituency, and asked for some time to prove himself. His aim will be to push for the maximum number of jobs for the youth if he wins. The 44-year-old son of the Congress stalwart said it will be unfair to make comparisons between him and his father who has been in electoral politics for 40 years. "I have less experience than my father. This is the fifth election that I am campaigning in, the last being the 2018 assembly elections in the state. Give me sometime and I will prove myself," Nakul Nath said. In his view, unemployment is the "biggest problem" in the area. "My aim is to bring industries so youth and talented manpower does not leave the region. I want that the people of the area get jobs here itself," he said. Nakul Nath is pitted against BJP's tribal leader and former MLA Nathan Shah Kavreti. Kavreti started his career with the RSS and is a well-known face in the area. He won the Assembly election in 2013 from Junnardeo in Chhindwara. Though he was not given a ticket in 2018 Assembly election, the BJP decided to try out the Scheduled Cast leader against Nakul Nath. The Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency with seven assembly seats will vote on April 29, the first of the four-phase polls in Madhya Pradesh. Chief Minister Kamal Nath is also contesting bypoll in the Chhindwara assembly constituency as per the legal requirement of being a member of legislative assembly (MLA) for running the state government. To facilitate his entry into the MP Assembly, Chhindwara MLA Dipak Saxena had resigned from the seat. The seat has been a Congress bastion since 1957. The only time the party lost it to the BJP was in the 1997 by-election when BJP candidate and former state chief minister Sunder Lal Patna won. In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had won 26 and the Congress secured three of the state's 29 seats. Kamal Nath defeated BJP's Chandrabhan Kuber Singh by a margin of 116,537 votes from Chhindwara. The Lok Sabha seat has over 15,12,000 voters.

Phase 4 of Lok Sabha polls: Kamal Nath's son seeks to prove himself in Chhindwara

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-no-hope-left-for-alliance-with-congress-now-manish-sisodia-212001">Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) </a>on Thursday released its election manifesto for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, which is considered as the roadmap for how the party will take the agenda of full statehood to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/alliance-fallout-if-bjp-wins-in-delhi-aap-and-congress-will-blame-each-other-for-their-rout-212800">Delhi </a>forward if voted to power.

In its manifesto, the party has made several promises like education, health, women safety, jobs, police reforms, zero corruption, pollution, etc.

The manifesto titled 'Lekar Rahenge Poorn Rajya'&nbsp;(We Will Take Full Statehood) was released in the presence of AAP national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-stays-non-bailable-warrants-against-arvind-kejriwal-others-in-defamation-complaint-213168">Arvind Kejriwal </a>and other senior party leaders in Delhi.

Speaking at the manifesto launch, Kejriwal said the ongoing election in the country is about saving democracy.

"2019 polls is about saving the country. If India is safe, parties will be saved. Need to save India from divisive forces. Today India's unity is under threat. BJP has an only one-point manifesto. BJP is fulfiling Pakistan's agenda. BJP's agenda is to divide India on the basis of caste and religion," Kejriwal said.

Talking at length about the AAP's constant demand of full statehood to Delhi, Kejriwal said, "We will fulfil a 70-year-old demand of the people of Delhi by granting full statehood. Both parties, BJP and Congress, have not fulfilled their promise of giving full statehood to Delhi. If Delhi becomes full statehood, we will not require the Centre`s permission. The Anti-Corruption branch will be handled by the Delhi government again."

The AAP convenor talked about jobs, reserving college seats for students from Delhi and revamping the educational system during the launch of the party`s manifesto.

Making a poll promise, Kejriwal said if full statehood is granted to Delhi, 85 per cent reservation will be granted to students from the national capital for admission in colleges.

Seven candidates fielded by the AAP are Chandni Chowk candidate Pankaj Gupta, East Delhi candidate Atishi, North West Delhi candidate Gugan Singh, South Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha, North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar and New Delhi candidate Brajesh Goel.

Single-phase polling in Delhi will take place on 12 May and the results will be announced on 23 May.&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday released its election manifesto for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, which is considered as the roadmap for how the party will take the agenda of full statehood to Delhi forward if voted to power.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday released its election manifesto for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, which is considered as the roadmap for how the party will take the agenda of full statehood to Delhi forward if voted to power. In its manifesto, the party has made several promises like education, health, women safety, jobs, police reforms, zero corruption, pollution, etc. The manifesto titled 'Lekar Rahenge Poorn Rajya' (We Will Take Full Statehood) was released in the presence of AAP national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other senior party leaders in Delhi. Speaking at the manifesto launch, Kejriwal said the ongoing election in the country is about saving democracy. "2019 polls is about saving the country. If India is safe, parties will be saved. Need to save India from divisive forces. Today India's unity is under threat. BJP has an only one-point manifesto. BJP is fulfiling Pakistan's agenda. BJP's agenda is to divide India on the basis of caste and religion," Kejriwal said. Talking at length about the AAP's constant demand of full statehood to Delhi, Kejriwal said, "We will fulfil a 70-year-old demand of the people of Delhi by granting full statehood. Both parties, BJP and Congress, have not fulfilled their promise of giving full statehood to Delhi. If Delhi becomes full statehood, we will not require the Centre`s permission. The Anti-Corruption branch will be handled by the Delhi government again." The AAP convenor talked about jobs, reserving college seats for students from Delhi and revamping the educational system during the launch of the party`s manifesto. Making a poll promise, Kejriwal said if full statehood is granted to Delhi, 85 per cent reservation will be granted to students from the national capital for admission in colleges. Seven candidates fielded by the AAP are Chandni Chowk candidate Pankaj Gupta, East Delhi candidate Atishi, North West Delhi candidate Gugan Singh, South Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha, North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar and New Delhi candidate Brajesh Goel. Single-phase polling in Delhi will take place on 12 May and the results will be announced on 23 May.

AAP releases Lok Sabha poll manifesto, primarily focuses on full statehood for Delhi

President Donald Trump may count Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi among his international allies, but New Delhi is smarting over unexpected US decisions it sees as ignoring the interests of an increasingly close partner.

The Trump administration this week said it would start to sanction countries that do not comply with its orders to stop buying oil from Iran, demanding that eight governments -- including India and China -- end all imports when six-month waivers run out next week.

The move, which triggered a hike in global oil prices that could disproportionately hit poorer Indians, came just as Modi was campaigning for a new mandate in ongoing, multi-phase elections.

The Iran diktat followed Trump's announcement in March that India, along with Turkey, would no longer enjoy a preferential trading status for a wide range of manufactured goods.

Trump, who has rocky relations with the leaders of numerous Western allies, has publicly highlighted his bond with Modi.

India's main opposition Congress party quickly seized on the Iran sanctions to attack Modi.

Trump, while popular among much of the Hindu right, has also drawn resentment in India over viral reports that he mimics Modi's accent in private -- a far cry from the reverential treatment US presidents since Bill Clinton have shown Indian leaders.

An Indian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described New Delhi as "surprised and disappointed" by the decision on Iran, saying the Trump administration had sent a message in March that India's cuts in imports were sufficient to be granted a fresh waiver.

"We thought that, as a major defence and strategic partner, the United States would take into consideration our concerns," the official said.

Trump is seeking to eliminate Iran's top source of revenue in a bid to curb the clerical regime's regional clout, including its backing of Shiite militants.

India is the world's third-largest oil importer.

The official said the South Asian nation has cut Iranian oil from 17 to five per cent of its total crude imports and had also ended oil purchases from Venezuela, succumbing to US pressure as Trump tries to oust leftist President Nicolas Maduro.

"We did this not because we agree with the US, but because we are strategic partners," he said.

Similarly, the official said the Trump administration ignored a detailed proposal from New Delhi when it announced it would scrap its designation in the Generalized System of Preferences, which grants favourable access to goods from developing countries.

India is proposing a 90-day delay in implementation as the government cannot make a counter-proposal under laws that forbid policy decisions during elections, the official said.

Another rift could come up as India -- a Cold War partner of the Soviet Union turned major buyer of US defence equipment -- finalizes its purchase of Russia's advanced S-400 missile system.

Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently told AFP that India has been "heard and understood" by the United States, which imposed sanctions on China and has warned NATO ally Turkey over buying the S-400.

Few expect India and the United States to drift apart significantly, let alone return to their Cold War estrangement, with the major parties in both democracies broadly supporting a strong relationship.

And Trump pleased Modi in February by backing India's air incursions into rival Pakistan, home to virulently anti-Indian militants, in response to an attack on Indian forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

Tanvi Madan, a fellow at the Brookings Institution and director of its India Project, said that this week's sanctions decision for the United States "is about Iran, not about its approach to India."

"But I think that India will feel once again that it will be collateral damage," she said.

"It reinforces the sense in India that the US isn't factoring in Indian interests when it comes to these decisions, yet they affect India."

Madan added that New Delhi was less concerned about oil than with preserving a relationship with Tehran, even while developing close ties with Iran's rivals Israel and Saudi Arabia.

India is hoping to keep working with Iran on its Chabahar port, through which New Delhi hopes to send supplies to war-torn Afghanistan, cracking the landlocked country's reliance on Pakistan.

Madan said there was one wild card that could shake up US-India ties -- if China seized on the rift and offered reconciliation with India by making concessions on the Asian giants' myriad disputes.

"Will, that happen? I find it hard to believe the Chinese will get around to doing it," she said.

"But the possibility exists."

President Donald Trump may count Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi among his international allies, but New Delhi is smarting over unexpected US decisions it sees as ignoring the interests of an increasingly close partner.

President Donald Trump may count Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi among his international allies, but New Delhi is smarting over unexpected US decisions it sees as ignoring the interests of an increasingly close partner. The Trump administration this week said it would start to sanction countries that do not comply with its orders to stop buying oil from Iran, demanding that eight governments -- including India and China -- end all imports when six-month waivers run out next week. The move, which triggered a hike in global oil prices that could disproportionately hit poorer Indians, came just as Modi was campaigning for a new mandate in ongoing, multi-phase elections. The Iran diktat followed Trump's announcement in March that India, along with Turkey, would no longer enjoy a preferential trading status for a wide range of manufactured goods. Trump, who has rocky relations with the leaders of numerous Western allies, has publicly highlighted his bond with Modi. India's main opposition Congress party quickly seized on the Iran sanctions to attack Modi. Trump, while popular among much of the Hindu right, has also drawn resentment in India over viral reports that he mimics Modi's accent in private -- a far cry from the reverential treatment US presidents since Bill Clinton have shown Indian leaders. An Indian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described New Delhi as "surprised and disappointed" by the decision on Iran, saying the Trump administration had sent a message in March that India's cuts in imports were sufficient to be granted a fresh waiver. "We thought that, as a major defence and strategic partner, the United States would take into consideration our concerns," the official said. Trump is seeking to eliminate Iran's top source of revenue in a bid to curb the clerical regime's regional clout, including its backing of Shiite militants. India is the world's third-largest oil importer. The official said the South Asian nation has cut Iranian oil from 17 to five per cent of its total crude imports and had also ended oil purchases from Venezuela, succumbing to US pressure as Trump tries to oust leftist President Nicolas Maduro. "We did this not because we agree with the US, but because we are strategic partners," he said. Similarly, the official said the Trump administration ignored a detailed proposal from New Delhi when it announced it would scrap its designation in the Generalized System of Preferences, which grants favourable access to goods from developing countries. India is proposing a 90-day delay in implementation as the government cannot make a counter-proposal under laws that forbid policy decisions during elections, the official said. Another rift could come up as India -- a Cold War partner of the Soviet Union turned major buyer of US defence equipment -- finalizes its purchase of Russia's advanced S-400 missile system. Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently told AFP that India has been "heard and understood" by the United States, which imposed sanctions on China and has warned NATO ally Turkey over buying the S-400. Few expect India and the United States to drift apart significantly, let alone return to their Cold War estrangement, with the major parties in both democracies broadly supporting a strong relationship. And Trump pleased Modi in February by backing India's air incursions into rival Pakistan, home to virulently anti-Indian militants, in response to an attack on Indian forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Tanvi Madan, a fellow at the Brookings Institution and director of its India Project, said that this week's sanctions decision for the United States "is about Iran, not about its approach to India." "But I think that India will feel once again that it will be collateral damage," she said. "It reinforces the sense in India that the US isn't factoring in Indian interests when it comes to these decisions, yet they affect India." Madan added that New Delhi was less concerned about oil than with preserving a relationship with Tehran, even while developing close ties with Iran's rivals Israel and Saudi Arabia. India is hoping to keep working with Iran on its Chabahar port, through which New Delhi hopes to send supplies to war-torn Afghanistan, cracking the landlocked country's reliance on Pakistan. Madan said there was one wild card that could shake up US-India ties -- if China seized on the rift and offered reconciliation with India by making concessions on the Asian giants' myriad disputes. "Will, that happen? I find it hard to believe the Chinese will get around to doing it," she said. "But the possibility exists."

With Iran and trade rifts, India feels brushed aside by Donald Trump

A Delhi court on Wednesday stayed the non-bailable warrants, which were issued against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia and Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav after they had failed to appear before it in a criminal defamation complaint filed in 2013. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal passed the order after lawyers for the three leaders sought cancellation of the NBWs.

The court said it will take up the main matter on April 29. Sharma, in his complaint, had alleged that in 2013 he was approached by volunteers of AAP who had asked him to contest the Delhi Assembly elections on a party ticket, saying Kejriwal was pleased with his social services. He filled up the application form to contest the polls after being told by Sisodia and Yadav that AAP’s Political Affairs Committee had decided to give him the ticket.

However, it was later denied to him. On October 14, 2013, the complainant claimed that articles in leading newspapers carried “defamatory, unlawful and derogatory words used by the accused persons” which have lowered his reputation in the Bar and the society. Opposing the complaint, the AAP leaders had submitted that cancellation or allotment of an election ticket is the prerogative of the party and the complainant had not divulged correct information as to the cases pending against him.

On the basis of the complaint, the trial court had earlier sought their presence before it in the matter. It had, however, granted bail to Kejriwal, Sisodia and Yadav after they had appeared before it in pursuance to summonses against them. The summonses were issued on the complaint under sections 499, 500 (defamation) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC, with the trial court saying there was prima facie material to summon the accused.

A Delhi court on Wednesday stayed the non-bailable warrants, which were issued against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia and Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav after they had failed to appear before it in a criminal defamation complaint filed in 2013.

A Delhi court on Wednesday stayed the non-bailable warrants, which were issued against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia and Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav after they had failed to appear before it in a criminal defamation complaint filed in 2013. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal passed the order after lawyers for the three leaders sought cancellation of the NBWs. The court said it will take up the main matter on April 29. Sharma, in his complaint, had alleged that in 2013 he was approached by volunteers of AAP who had asked him to contest the Delhi Assembly elections on a party ticket, saying Kejriwal was pleased with his social services. He filled up the application form to contest the polls after being told by Sisodia and Yadav that AAP’s Political Affairs Committee had decided to give him the ticket. However, it was later denied to him. On October 14, 2013, the complainant claimed that articles in leading newspapers carried “defamatory, unlawful and derogatory words used by the accused persons” which have lowered his reputation in the Bar and the society. Opposing the complaint, the AAP leaders had submitted that cancellation or allotment of an election ticket is the prerogative of the party and the complainant had not divulged correct information as to the cases pending against him. On the basis of the complaint, the trial court had earlier sought their presence before it in the matter. It had, however, granted bail to Kejriwal, Sisodia and Yadav after they had appeared before it in pursuance to summonses against them. The summonses were issued on the complaint under sections 499, 500 (defamation) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC, with the trial court saying there was prima facie material to summon the accused.

Delhi court stays non-bailable warrants against Arvind Kejriwal, others in defamation complaint

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-pm-narendra-modis-non-political-interview-with-bollywood-actor-akshay-kumar-213154">Narendra Modi </a>on Wednesday said that he has many "good friends" in the Opposition and added that West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/lok-sabha-polls-2019-mamata-banerjees-dominance-mayawatis-reluctance-is-advantage-bjp-209214">Mamata Banerjee</a> sends personally-selected Kurtas and sweets to him.

"I have many good friends in the Opposition. We do eat food together once or twice a year. Long time back when I was not even the Chief Minister (of Gujarat), I had gone to Parliament for some work. There Ghulam Nabi Azad and I were having a friendly conversation. When we came out media people asked, how can you be friends with Azad as you belong to RSS. Ghulam Nabi gave a good answer. Hum dono saath khade the, bola dekho bhai bahar jo aap log sochte ho, aisa nahi hai. Shayad ek family ke roop me hum log jitne jude hue hain sabhi dal ke log, wo shayad bahar kalpana nahi kar sakte (While we two were standing, he said that what you people think outside, it's not like that. Maybe the way we the people of all the organisations are connected as a family it can't be imagined outside)," Prime Minister Modi said in an interaction with actor Akshay Kumar.

"Mamata didi saal me aaj bhi mujhe ek-do kurte wo khud select karne jati hain (Even today Mamata didi herself selects one-two Kurtas for me in the year). She sends one-two Kurtas for me. Even Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sends sweets to me three-four times in a year especially from Dhaka.

"When Mamata didi came to know about it, she too started sending me Bengali sweets," he added.

Interestingly, Mamata has mostly been critical about Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government and has openly opposed their various initiatives including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and demonetisation.

On Sunday, Mamata had accused Prime Minister Modi of causing hardships to the people through demonetisation and said the electorate in West Bengal will pay back by not casting a "single vote" for him.

"In the (2014) elections, Narendra Modi's BJP party had won. But, in the last five years, the government has betrayed Bengal. He (Modi) is coming here and saying lies. He comes flying to Bengal at the time of elections and is nowhere to be seen in other times," she said at a public rally.

Before that on April 4, Mamata Banerjee had even termed Prime Minister Modi as "Hitler's uncle".

A day before that she called Modi as "expiry babu" and said, "His government has expired. You (Modi) said in Siliguri that we did not do anything for the poor. What have you done in the last five years? I have never seen a Prime Minister telling these many lies. Do not speak lies every day."

On April 3 itself, Prime Minister Modi had called Banerjee as "speedbreaker Didi".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he has many "good friends" in the Opposition and added that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee sends personally-selected Kurtas and sweets to him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he has many "good friends" in the Opposition and added that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee sends personally-selected Kurtas and sweets to him. "I have many good friends in the Opposition. We do eat food together once or twice a year. Long time back when I was not even the Chief Minister (of Gujarat), I had gone to Parliament for some work. There Ghulam Nabi Azad and I were having a friendly conversation. When we came out media people asked, how can you be friends with Azad as you belong to RSS. Ghulam Nabi gave a good answer. Hum dono saath khade the, bola dekho bhai bahar jo aap log sochte ho, aisa nahi hai. Shayad ek family ke roop me hum log jitne jude hue hain sabhi dal ke log, wo shayad bahar kalpana nahi kar sakte (While we two were standing, he said that what you people think outside, it's not like that. Maybe the way we the people of all the organisations are connected as a family it can't be imagined outside)," Prime Minister Modi said in an interaction with actor Akshay Kumar. "Mamata didi saal me aaj bhi mujhe ek-do kurte wo khud select karne jati hain (Even today Mamata didi herself selects one-two Kurtas for me in the year). She sends one-two Kurtas for me. Even Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sends sweets to me three-four times in a year especially from Dhaka. "When Mamata didi came to know about it, she too started sending me Bengali sweets," he added. Interestingly, Mamata has mostly been critical about Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government and has openly opposed their various initiatives including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and demonetisation. On Sunday, Mamata had accused Prime Minister Modi of causing hardships to the people through demonetisation and said the electorate in West Bengal will pay back by not casting a "single vote" for him. "In the (2014) elections, Narendra Modi's BJP party had won. But, in the last five years, the government has betrayed Bengal. He (Modi) is coming here and saying lies. He comes flying to Bengal at the time of elections and is nowhere to be seen in other times," she said at a public rally. Before that on April 4, Mamata Banerjee had even termed Prime Minister Modi as "Hitler's uncle". A day before that she called Modi as "expiry babu" and said, "His government has expired. You (Modi) said in Siliguri that we did not do anything for the poor. What have you done in the last five years? I have never seen a Prime Minister telling these many lies. Do not speak lies every day." On April 3 itself, Prime Minister Modi had called Banerjee as "speedbreaker Didi".

I have many friends in opposition, Mamata Banerjee sends kurtas and sweets to me: PM Narendra Modi to Akshay Kumar

BJP chief<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-in-confusion-not-us-amit-shah-on-reports-of-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-contesting-from-varanasi-213070&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjk7tXBkujhAhXX63MBHdyGDPcQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2XT3XNbghOU6QzFF3SDOBh"> Amit Shah</a> Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority.

Shah visited Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and inaugurated a media centre of the party. He also opened the election office of PM Modi at Mehmoorganj.

&nbsp;"Looking at the voting in the first three phases, I believe that the BJP is going to form the next government with full majority," Shah told reporters at the launch of the media centre.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP and its ally will perform far better than the SP-BSP alliance and would win most of the seats of the state, he said.

He said the BJP's tally would be even better than the 2014 Lok Sabha election's.

On the question of the possibility of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-in-confusion-not-us-amit-shah-on-reports-of-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-contesting-from-varanasi-213070&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjk7tXBkujhAhXX63MBHdyGDPcQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2XT3XNbghOU6QzFF3SDOBh">Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> contesting the Lok Sabha elections against Modi from Varanasi, Shah said that in a democracy, anyone can contest polls from anywhere in the country.

"We have declared our candidate and PM Modi is contesting elections again from Varanasi," he said.

He said Modi will hold a grand roadshow in the city on April 25 and file his nomination papers the next day.

He said senior BJP leaders, parliamentary board members and NDA allies, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiromani Akali Dal leaders, LJP president Ram Vilas Paswan, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be present, among others, during the filing of the nomination papers.

On the question of giving Lok Sabha ticket to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, Shah said she was jailed on "false" charges "fabricated" by the Congress party.

Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi should apologise for "Hindu terror" and "Bhagwa terror" phrases.

Shah said the Congress released LeT terrorists from jail for vote bank politics and alleged that it jailed innocent people on false terror cases. It accused the party of sidestepping national security for vote bank politics.

He also said those who carried out corruption to the tune of Rs "12 lakh crore", would not be spared and their place is in jail.

"When did you meet Rahul Gandhi, why are you speaking his language?" Shah said when he was asked about the PM's 'nuclear-button' statement, and also a question on alleged "harassment" of political opponents by the BJP.

"In 2014, PM Modi had said that those who carried out corruption and scams to the tune of Rs 12 lakh crore, they will not be spared and their place is in jails," Shah told the press conference.

"Will they be spared and not be sent in jail? It's the public money and the public wants to know about each penny", he said.

He said the BJP never indulged in "politically motivated" harassment of its political opponents.

BJP chief Amit Shah Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority.

BJP chief Amit Shah Tuesday said that after three phases of voting in the Lok Sabha polls he is confident that his party will win the elections with a huge margin and form a government with full majority. Shah visited Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and inaugurated a media centre of the party. He also opened the election office of PM Modi at Mehmoorganj. "Looking at the voting in the first three phases, I believe that the BJP is going to form the next government with full majority," Shah told reporters at the launch of the media centre. In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP and its ally will perform far better than the SP-BSP alliance and would win most of the seats of the state, he said. He said the BJP's tally would be even better than the 2014 Lok Sabha election's. On the question of the possibility of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the Lok Sabha elections against Modi from Varanasi, Shah said that in a democracy, anyone can contest polls from anywhere in the country. "We have declared our candidate and PM Modi is contesting elections again from Varanasi," he said. He said Modi will hold a grand roadshow in the city on April 25 and file his nomination papers the next day. He said senior BJP leaders, parliamentary board members and NDA allies, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiromani Akali Dal leaders, LJP president Ram Vilas Paswan, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be present, among others, during the filing of the nomination papers. On the question of giving Lok Sabha ticket to 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, Shah said she was jailed on "false" charges "fabricated" by the Congress party. Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi should apologise for "Hindu terror" and "Bhagwa terror" phrases. Shah said the Congress released LeT terrorists from jail for vote bank politics and alleged that it jailed innocent people on false terror cases. It accused the party of sidestepping national security for vote bank politics. He also said those who carried out corruption to the tune of Rs "12 lakh crore", would not be spared and their place is in jail. "When did you meet Rahul Gandhi, why are you speaking his language?" Shah said when he was asked about the PM's 'nuclear-button' statement, and also a question on alleged "harassment" of political opponents by the BJP. "In 2014, PM Modi had said that those who carried out corruption and scams to the tune of Rs 12 lakh crore, they will not be spared and their place is in jails," Shah told the press conference. "Will they be spared and not be sent in jail? It's the public money and the public wants to know about each penny", he said. He said the BJP never indulged in "politically motivated" harassment of its political opponents.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Looking at voting in first three phases, I'm confident BJP will win, says Amit Shah

Apoorva Shukla Tiwari, the wife of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-up-uttarakhand-cm-nd-tiwaris-son-rohit-shekhar-tiwari-passes-away-210949">Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, </a>who was detained in connection with his murder, has been arrested by the Delhi Police Crime Branch on Wednesday for hatching a conspiracy to murder him.&nbsp;

Rohit, who is the son of Former UP CM Narayan Dutt Tiwari, was found dead on April 16 under mysterious circumstances.

Earlier on Sunday, the Crime Branch of Delhi Police took Apoorva, (wife of late Rohit Shekhar Tiwari), maid and the servant to an undisclosed location for interrogation in connection to the Rohit Shekhar's murder case.

The Crime Branch of Delhi Police questioned Apoorva on April 20 in connection to the case.

The questioning took place at Rohit's residence in Defence Colony in South Delhi.

"There was tension between Rohit and his wife since the first day of marriage. It was a love marriage; Currently, Delhi crime branch is questioning the wife of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari," Rohit's mother Ujjwala Tiwari had told reporters then.

On Friday, the Delhi Police had registered a murder case in connection with the death of Rohit, who was the son of late Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Chief Minister ND Tiwari. The case was registered under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Rohit was declared brought dead to the Max Hospital in Saket on April 16.

(With inputs from ANI)

Apoorva Shukla Tiwari, the wife of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, who was detained in connection with his murder, has been arrested by the Delhi Police Crime Branch on Wednesday for hatching a conspiracy to murder him.

Apoorva Shukla Tiwari, the wife of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, who was detained in connection with his murder, has been arrested by the Delhi Police Crime Branch on Wednesday for hatching a conspiracy to murder him. Rohit, who is the son of Former UP CM Narayan Dutt Tiwari, was found dead on April 16 under mysterious circumstances. Earlier on Sunday, the Crime Branch of Delhi Police took Apoorva, (wife of late Rohit Shekhar Tiwari), maid and the servant to an undisclosed location for interrogation in connection to the Rohit Shekhar's murder case. The Crime Branch of Delhi Police questioned Apoorva on April 20 in connection to the case. The questioning took place at Rohit's residence in Defence Colony in South Delhi. "There was tension between Rohit and his wife since the first day of marriage. It was a love marriage; Currently, Delhi crime branch is questioning the wife of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari," Rohit's mother Ujjwala Tiwari had told reporters then. On Friday, the Delhi Police had registered a murder case in connection with the death of Rohit, who was the son of late Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Chief Minister ND Tiwari. The case was registered under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Rohit was declared brought dead to the Max Hospital in Saket on April 16. (With inputs from ANI)

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari murder case: Delhi Police arrest wife Apoorva Shukla

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