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India is studying the implications of the US decision to end sanctions waiver to India on import of Iranian oil, government sources said Monday.&nbsp;

In a move that could have implications on India's energy security, US President Donald Trump decided <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-no-longer-grant-sanctions-exemptions-to-irans-oil-customers-us-212617">not to grant sanctions exemptions to any oil customers of Iran</a>.

In November last year, the US granted waivers to India, China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Italy and Greece for a period of six months to import oil from Iran.&nbsp;

"We have seen the announcement by the US Secretary of State. We are studying the implications of the decision and will make a statement at an appropriate time," said a source.

The US re-imposed sanctions on Iran last November after President Trump pulled out of the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

"President Donald J&nbsp;Trump has decided not to reissue Significant Reduction Exceptions (SREs) when they expire in early May. This decision is intended to bring Iran's oil exports to zero, denying the regime its principal source of revenue," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in Washington.&nbsp;

India is studying the implications of the US decision to end sanctions waiver to India on import of Iranian oil, government sources said Monday. In a move that could have implications on India's energy security, US President Donald Trump decided not to grant sanctions exemptions to any oil customers of Iran.

India is studying the implications of the US decision to end sanctions waiver to India on import of Iranian oil, government sources said Monday. In a move that could have implications on India's energy security, US President Donald Trump decided not to grant sanctions exemptions to any oil customers of Iran. In November last year, the US granted waivers to India, China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Italy and Greece for a period of six months to import oil from Iran. "We have seen the announcement by the US Secretary of State. We are studying the implications of the decision and will make a statement at an appropriate time," said a source. The US re-imposed sanctions on Iran last November after President Trump pulled out of the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal. "President Donald J Trump has decided not to reissue Significant Reduction Exceptions (SREs) when they expire in early May. This decision is intended to bring Iran's oil exports to zero, denying the regime its principal source of revenue," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in Washington.

Studying implications of US decision to end sanctions waiver for import of Iranian oil: Government sources

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

Sitharaman said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Congress chief</a>'s "credibility has taken a beating".

"People in public life generously go on saying untruth and to repeat it is a matter of grief," she said.&nbsp;

"I feel sorry that the president of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood," she added.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi.

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Nirmala Sitharaman on Rahul Gandhi's reply in SC: His credibility has taken a beating. People in public life to generously go on saying untruth &amp; to repeat it is a matter of grief. I feel sorry that President of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> <a href="https://t.co/WAnuG5sX3b">pic.twitter.com/WAnuG5sX3b</a>
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In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents.

"At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings, unfortunately, got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply.

The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Sitharaman said that the Congress chief's "credibility has taken a beating". "People in public life generously go on saying untruth and to repeat it is a matter of grief," she said. "I feel sorry that the president of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood," she added. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi. Nirmala Sitharaman on Rahul Gandhi's reply in SC: His credibility has taken a beating. People in public life to generously go on saying untruth & to repeat it is a matter of grief. I feel sorry that President of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood. #Rafale pic.twitter.com/WAnuG5sX3b — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2019 × In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents. "At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings, unfortunately, got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply. The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22.

I feel sorry that president of national party like Congress depends only on falsehood: Sitharaman slams Rahul

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explosion-reported-near-st-anthonys-church-in-colombo-212571">Video: 'Controlled explosion' reported near St Anthony's church in Colombo</a>

A 'controlled explosion' occurred in Colombo on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal was reporting from near St Anthony's church in Colombo where the explosion took place. This was the second controlled explosion since morning.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-no-longer-grant-sanctions-exemptions-to-irans-oil-customers-us-212617">Will no longer grant sanctions exemptions to Iran's oil customers: US</a>

The United States announced on Monday it will no longer grant sanctions exemptions to Iran's oil customers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/87-bomb-detonators-found-at-colombo-bus-station-police-212566">87 bomb detonators found at Colombo bus station: Police</a>

Eighty-seven detonators were found at Sri Lanka's Colombo bus station on Monday, a day after the series of blasts ripped through the island-nation killing as many as 290 people. Over 500 people were also injured. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Regret chowkidar chor hai remark against PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi in response to Supreme Court notice</a>

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-serial-blasts-president-maithripala-sirisena-to-announce-nationwide-emergency-from-midnight-212560">Sri Lanka serial blasts: President Sirisena to announce nationwide emergency from midnight</a>

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will be announcing a nationwide emergency from midnight on Monday following Easter Day blasts. The development comes soon after the Sri Lankan authorities lifted a curfew in the country on Monday and another night-time curfew was imposed.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Video: 'Controlled explosion' reported near St Anthony's church in Colombo A 'controlled explosion' occurred in Colombo on Monday afternoon. WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal was reporting from near St Anthony's church in Colombo where the explosion took place.

Video: 'Controlled explosion' reported near St Anthony's church in Colombo A 'controlled explosion' occurred in Colombo on Monday afternoon. WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal was reporting from near St Anthony's church in Colombo where the explosion took place. This was the second controlled explosion since morning. Will no longer grant sanctions exemptions to Iran's oil customers: US The United States announced on Monday it will no longer grant sanctions exemptions to Iran's oil customers. 87 bomb detonators found at Colombo bus station: Police Eighty-seven detonators were found at Sri Lanka's Colombo bus station on Monday, a day after the series of blasts ripped through the island-nation killing as many as 290 people. Over 500 people were also injured. Regret chowkidar chor hai remark against PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi in response to Supreme Court notice Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi. Sri Lanka serial blasts: President Sirisena to announce nationwide emergency from midnight Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena will be announcing a nationwide emergency from midnight on Monday following Easter Day blasts. The development comes soon after the Sri Lankan authorities lifted a curfew in the country on Monday and another night-time curfew was imposed.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar.

This comes just hours after the party declared candidates on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-list-of-delhi-candidates-sheila-dixit-to-contest-from-north-east-delhi-212497">six of the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital</a>.

JP Agarwal to contest from Chandni Chowk, Sheila Dixit from North East Delhi, Arvinder Singh Lovely from East Delhi, Ajay Maken from New Delhi, Rajesh Lilothia from North West Delhi (SC) and Mahabal Mishra from West Delhi.

From North East Delhi seat where Sheila Dikshit will contest, AAP has fielded Dilip Pandey.

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Congress releases list of candidates for 3 Parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay from Domariyaganj &amp; Bhal Chand Yadav (in place of Parvez Khan) from Sant Kabir Nagar. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/b5VHACPlPr">pic.twitter.com/b5VHACPlPr</a>
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At present, this seat is represented by Manoj Tiwari, who is also the president of BJP’s Delhi unit. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Tiwari had defeated Professor Anand Kumar of AAP by 1,44,084 votes.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi</a> for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar.

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar. This comes just hours after the party declared candidates on six of the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital. JP Agarwal to contest from Chandni Chowk, Sheila Dixit from North East Delhi, Arvinder Singh Lovely from East Delhi, Ajay Maken from New Delhi, Rajesh Lilothia from North West Delhi (SC) and Mahabal Mishra from West Delhi. From North East Delhi seat where Sheila Dikshit will contest, AAP has fielded Dilip Pandey. Congress releases list of candidates for 3 Parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay from Domariyaganj & Bhal Chand Yadav (in place of Parvez Khan) from Sant Kabir Nagar. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/b5VHACPlPr — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 22, 2019 × At present, this seat is represented by Manoj Tiwari, who is also the president of BJP’s Delhi unit. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Tiwari had defeated Professor Anand Kumar of AAP by 1,44,084 votes. Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Congress releases list of candidates for Uttar Pradesh, fields Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj

Malegaon blast accused and BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur on Monday filed her nomination papers from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency.

Thakur, who is contesting against Congress leader Digvijay Singh, was accompanied by three supporters and her advocate.

Thakur is among the seven accused facing trial in the Malegaon blast case, wherein six people were killed and a dozen others were injured when a bomb placed on a motorcycle exploded in Maharashtra's Malegaon on September 29, 2008.

Earlier in the day, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati hit out at the Election Commission of India (ECI) for not cancelling Thakur's nomination over her remarks on Babri Masjid.

Mayawati's response comes after Thakur on Sunday said that she is "proud" to accept that she was involved in the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

"I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation," she said.

"BJP candidate from Bhopal and Malegaon blast accused Sadhvi Pradnya claims that she is fighting a 'crusade'&nbsp;(dharmayudh). This is the real face of BJP and RSS which is constantly being exposed. But why is the Election Commission only issuing notices and not cancelling Thakur's candidature?" Mayawati wrote on her Twitter handle.

Mayawati further tweeted and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the downfall of the EC. "Regardless media's criticism, if the Election Commission is not acting fairly then it is a matter of great concern for the country's democracy and PM Modi is responsible for this downfall."

Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday had issued a notice to Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there.

Polls in Bhopal will be held on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Malegaon blast accused and BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur on Monday filed her nomination papers from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency. Thakur, who is contesting against Congress leader Digvijay Singh, was accompanied by three supporters and her advocate.

Malegaon blast accused and BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur on Monday filed her nomination papers from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency. Thakur, who is contesting against Congress leader Digvijay Singh, was accompanied by three supporters and her advocate. Thakur is among the seven accused facing trial in the Malegaon blast case, wherein six people were killed and a dozen others were injured when a bomb placed on a motorcycle exploded in Maharashtra's Malegaon on September 29, 2008. Earlier in the day, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati hit out at the Election Commission of India (ECI) for not cancelling Thakur's nomination over her remarks on Babri Masjid. Mayawati's response comes after Thakur on Sunday said that she is "proud" to accept that she was involved in the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. "I have said it yesterday and I am not denying it that I had gone there. I have demolished Babri structure. He is my Ram ji and no one can stop me from making a grand Ram temple. The nation is Ram, Ram is a nation," she said. "BJP candidate from Bhopal and Malegaon blast accused Sadhvi Pradnya claims that she is fighting a 'crusade' (dharmayudh). This is the real face of BJP and RSS which is constantly being exposed. But why is the Election Commission only issuing notices and not cancelling Thakur's candidature?" Mayawati wrote on her Twitter handle. Mayawati further tweeted and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the downfall of the EC. "Regardless media's criticism, if the Election Commission is not acting fairly then it is a matter of great concern for the country's democracy and PM Modi is responsible for this downfall." Bhopal District Election Officer on Sunday had issued a notice to Thakur and sought explanation within a day for her remark on the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. The Babri Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Babur in 1578 in Ayodhya, was on December 6, 1992, pulled down allegedly by a group of Hindu activists, claiming that the mosque was constructed after demolishing a Ram temple that stood there. Polls in Bhopal will be held on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Pragya Singh Thakur files nomination from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">Union Minister Harsh Vardhan</a>, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and sitting party MP Parvesh Verma filed their nomination on Monday for the Chandni Chowk, Northeast Delhi and West Delhi constituencies respectively.

They also organised road shows which saw the participation of Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Nirmala Sitharaman, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and Vijay Goel.&nbsp;

The BJP had announced candidates for four seats in the national capital late on Sunday evening and had retained sitting MPs including Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

During the road show, Vardhan who filed his nomination for the Chandni Chowk constituency was accompanied by Gadkari and Naqvi while Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman joined the road show organised by Parvesh Verma who is the sitting BJP MP from West Delhi.&nbsp;

During his road show, which culminated at the office of Returning Officer, Northeast, Tiwari was accompanied by Goel.&nbsp;

Haryanvi singer-dancer Sapna Choudhary and rebel AAP MLA Kapil Mishra also accompanied Tiwari.&nbsp;

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and sitting party MP Parvesh Verma filed their nomination on Monday for the Chandni Chowk, Northeast Delhi and West Delhi constituencies respectively.

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and sitting party MP Parvesh Verma filed their nomination on Monday for the Chandni Chowk, Northeast Delhi and West Delhi constituencies respectively. They also organised road shows which saw the participation of Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Nirmala Sitharaman, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and Vijay Goel. The BJP had announced candidates for four seats in the national capital late on Sunday evening and had retained sitting MPs including Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. During the road show, Vardhan who filed his nomination for the Chandni Chowk constituency was accompanied by Gadkari and Naqvi while Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman joined the road show organised by Parvesh Verma who is the sitting BJP MP from West Delhi. During his road show, which culminated at the office of Returning Officer, Northeast, Tiwari was accompanied by Goel. Haryanvi singer-dancer Sapna Choudhary and rebel AAP MLA Kapil Mishra also accompanied Tiwari.

Lok Sabha polls: Harsh Vardhan, Manoj Tiwari and Parvesh Verma file nominations

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/post-pulwama-attack-government-grants-emergency-powers-to-armed-forces-to-buy-weapon-systems-210971">Pulwama terror attack</a>, sources said on Monday.

Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added.

Within 45 days of the Pulwama attack, the entire JeM team involved in the attack was "neutralised"&nbsp;through a combination of technical and human intelligence-based operations.

This also includes arrest and deportation of Jaish cadre who were involved in the operation, sources mentioned.

After the Pulwama attack, sources said, four Jaish terrorists involved directly in the attack were killed while four others were arrested in different operations.

Sources said inputs were gathered after the interrogation of around 40 Jaish overground supporters in the Kashmir valley.

Top Indian security brass feels Pakistan trying to obfuscate its role in terrorist activities by projecting Jammu and Kashmir as part of a larger global jihadi narrative and next battleground after Afghanistan, sources added.

The terrorists killed include Kamran, Mushashir Ahmed Khan and Sajjad Bhat, sources said.

Two terrorists, including Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Sajjad, are in NIA custody for their role in the terror attack, it added.

Sources revealed that Tantray helped the suicide bomber Aadil Ahmed Dar by getting a vehicle-based improvised explosive device (IED) from Yasir, a Pakistan-based JeM terrorist.

On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district.

The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.&nbsp;

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the Pulwama terror attack, sources said on Monday. Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commanders have been eliminated in targeted action by India post the Pulwama terror attack, sources said on Monday. Of the 66 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 27 belong to the Pakistan-based terror outfit out of which 19 were eliminated after the February 14 Pulwama attack, sources added. Within 45 days of the Pulwama attack, the entire JeM team involved in the attack was "neutralised" through a combination of technical and human intelligence-based operations. This also includes arrest and deportation of Jaish cadre who were involved in the operation, sources mentioned. After the Pulwama attack, sources said, four Jaish terrorists involved directly in the attack were killed while four others were arrested in different operations. Sources said inputs were gathered after the interrogation of around 40 Jaish overground supporters in the Kashmir valley. Top Indian security brass feels Pakistan trying to obfuscate its role in terrorist activities by projecting Jammu and Kashmir as part of a larger global jihadi narrative and next battleground after Afghanistan, sources added. The terrorists killed include Kamran, Mushashir Ahmed Khan and Sajjad Bhat, sources said. Two terrorists, including Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Sajjad, are in NIA custody for their role in the terror attack, it added. Sources revealed that Tantray helped the suicide bomber Aadil Ahmed Dar by getting a vehicle-based improvised explosive device (IED) from Yasir, a Pakistan-based JeM terrorist. On February 14 this year, over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a JeM-orchestrated terror attack in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. The incident took place when a CRPF convoy, consisting of around 2,500 personnel, was attacked by a suicide bomber who rammed a car laden with explosives into one of the buses on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.

Post Pulwama terror attack, top JeM commanders eliminated in targeted action by India

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party.

Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism. There is no religion or caste of terrorism. Their new theory weakened India's stand against terrorism."

He said repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was another such case which undermined India's stand.

"In 2004, India had an agreement with Pakistan in which its former army chief had assured that the country will not provide shelter and allow terrorism to flourish on its soil, but Congress tried weakening India's stand, saying Pakistan was also a victim of terrorism," he said.

The home minister said the opposition was doing politics over issues which should not be politicised.&nbsp;

Instead of praising the defence forces after the airstrike in Balakot of Pakistan, the opposition parties questioned it with queries on the number of terrorists killed, he said.

"When such types of questions are asked, it weakens India's stand against terrorism," he said.

Speaking on the Congress' election manifesto promising to scrap the sedition law, Singh said the law should be further strengthened but it should not be misused.

Talking about Articles 370 and 35A for Jammu and Kashmir, he said it was a temporary arrangement and it was time to review it.

"How much the entitlement benefitted Jammu and Kashmir? When a few people are raising questions there should be two prime ministers in the country then what is the significance of Article 370 and 35A," Singh asked.

He exuded confidence that the first two phases of Lok Sabha elections reflected a wave in favour of the BJP, and there was no doubt the party will get a clear majority and possibly the NDA will achieve 3/4th majority.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism. There is no religion or caste of terrorism. Their new theory weakened India's stand against terrorism." He said repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was another such case which undermined India's stand. "In 2004, India had an agreement with Pakistan in which its former army chief had assured that the country will not provide shelter and allow terrorism to flourish on its soil, but Congress tried weakening India's stand, saying Pakistan was also a victim of terrorism," he said. The home minister said the opposition was doing politics over issues which should not be politicised. Instead of praising the defence forces after the airstrike in Balakot of Pakistan, the opposition parties questioned it with queries on the number of terrorists killed, he said. "When such types of questions are asked, it weakens India's stand against terrorism," he said. Speaking on the Congress' election manifesto promising to scrap the sedition law, Singh said the law should be further strengthened but it should not be misused. Talking about Articles 370 and 35A for Jammu and Kashmir, he said it was a temporary arrangement and it was time to review it. "How much the entitlement benefitted Jammu and Kashmir? When a few people are raising questions there should be two prime ministers in the country then what is the significance of Article 370 and 35A," Singh asked. He exuded confidence that the first two phases of Lok Sabha elections reflected a wave in favour of the BJP, and there was no doubt the party will get a clear majority and possibly the NDA will achieve 3/4th majority.

Congress has weakened India's stand on terrorism on several occasions: Rajnath Singh

The Delhi High Court Monday granted more time to Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, and the CBI to respond to a plea by Tihar Jail authorities challenging an order allowing him to make international phone calls for 15 minutes in violation of prison rules.

Michel, lodged in Tihar Jail, was also produced before Justice Mukta Gupta in pursuance to the court's earlier direction.

The court was informed by CBI's Special Public Prosecutor that the panel of lawyers has been changed and the counsel, who will now represent the agency, received the case file on Sunday and sought time to respond to the plea.

Michel's counsel also sought time to file his response saying he was not given the copy of the petition after which the court asked the advocate for jail authorities to provide him the plea.

The court allowed the plea of counsel for CBI and Michel and granted them time to file their responses and listed the matter for further hearing on July 31.

Advocate Avi Singh, appearing for Tihar Jail, said the unequal treatment is continuing and due to this, other inmates have also started demanding the same.

The court had on March 18 asked the CBI and Michel to file their reply on the plea in which the jail authorities have alleged that no facts and circumstances were considered by the trial court for granting an "illegal and improper privilege of communication".

The trial court had in January allowed Michel to make international phone calls to his family, friends and lawyers and he was granted 15 minutes a week for making calls.

The jail's counsel had earlier said the prison manual provided only for 10 minutes per week for making calls.

He had said that as per the January 27, 2017 circular of prison authorities, a foreign national is only allowed to make calls to the country of his or her origin.

Michel's country of origin is the UK and as per the jail call records, he has been mostly contacting his "legal representative" in Italy.

The accused, lodged in jail under judicial custody, had approached the trial court seeking permission to make phone calls to his family and others, claiming that the prison authorities had rejected his plea.

Michel, extradited from Dubai, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 22 last year. He was later arrested by CBI in the case related to Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland deal.

The court had earlier imposed restrictions on Michel meeting his lawyers while he was in the ED's custody after the agency had said he was misusing the legal access by passing chits to his lawyers, asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi".

Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa.

ED, in its charge sheet filed against Michel in June 2016, had alleged that he had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland.

CBI, in its charge sheet, has alleged an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore) to the exchequer due to the deal that was signed on February 8, 2010, for the supply of VVIP choppers worth 556.262 million euros.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court Monday granted more time to Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, and the CBI to respond to a plea by Tihar Jail authorities challenging an order allowing him to make international phone calls for 15 minutes in violation of prison rules.

The Delhi High Court Monday granted more time to Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, and the CBI to respond to a plea by Tihar Jail authorities challenging an order allowing him to make international phone calls for 15 minutes in violation of prison rules. Michel, lodged in Tihar Jail, was also produced before Justice Mukta Gupta in pursuance to the court's earlier direction. The court was informed by CBI's Special Public Prosecutor that the panel of lawyers has been changed and the counsel, who will now represent the agency, received the case file on Sunday and sought time to respond to the plea. Michel's counsel also sought time to file his response saying he was not given the copy of the petition after which the court asked the advocate for jail authorities to provide him the plea. The court allowed the plea of counsel for CBI and Michel and granted them time to file their responses and listed the matter for further hearing on July 31. Advocate Avi Singh, appearing for Tihar Jail, said the unequal treatment is continuing and due to this, other inmates have also started demanding the same. The court had on March 18 asked the CBI and Michel to file their reply on the plea in which the jail authorities have alleged that no facts and circumstances were considered by the trial court for granting an "illegal and improper privilege of communication". The trial court had in January allowed Michel to make international phone calls to his family, friends and lawyers and he was granted 15 minutes a week for making calls. The jail's counsel had earlier said the prison manual provided only for 10 minutes per week for making calls. He had said that as per the January 27, 2017 circular of prison authorities, a foreign national is only allowed to make calls to the country of his or her origin. Michel's country of origin is the UK and as per the jail call records, he has been mostly contacting his "legal representative" in Italy. The accused, lodged in jail under judicial custody, had approached the trial court seeking permission to make phone calls to his family and others, claiming that the prison authorities had rejected his plea. Michel, extradited from Dubai, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 22 last year. He was later arrested by CBI in the case related to Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland deal. The court had earlier imposed restrictions on Michel meeting his lawyers while he was in the ED's custody after the agency had said he was misusing the legal access by passing chits to his lawyers, asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi". Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the case by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. ED, in its charge sheet filed against Michel in June 2016, had alleged that he had received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AgustaWestland. CBI, in its charge sheet, has alleged an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (about Rs 2,666 crore) to the exchequer due to the deal that was signed on February 8, 2010, for the supply of VVIP choppers worth 556.262 million euros.

Delhi High Court grants time to CBI, Michel to file reply on Tihar Jail plea against his phone calls

A Delhi court Monday sent to District Judge the complaint seeking direction to the police to register an FIR against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Congress President Rahul Gandhi</a> for making allegedly seditious remarks in 2016 against Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of hiding behind the blood of soldiers and cashing in on their sacrifice.

Metropolitan Magistrate Preeti Parewa said that since the accused was a sitting MP, the court was not empowered to take up the matter and was sending back the case to District Judge for allocating it before the designated court.

The complaint has referred to the Congress leader's speech delivered at a public meeting where he had said PM Modi was hiding behind the blood of soldiers and exploiting their sacrifices.

On October 6, 2016, Rahul, while addressing the meeting after completion of his 'Kisan Yatra' in Uttar Pradesh, had said,&nbsp;"You (Modi) are hiding behind the blood of soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir and those who carried out the surgical strikes for India. You are exploiting their sacrifices, which is very wrong."

A Delhi court Monday sent to District Judge the complaint seeking direction to the police to register an FIR against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for making allegedly seditious remarks in 2016 against Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of hiding behind the blood of soldiers and cashing in on their sacrifice.

A Delhi court Monday sent to District Judge the complaint seeking direction to the police to register an FIR against Congress President Rahul Gandhi for making allegedly seditious remarks in 2016 against Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of hiding behind the blood of soldiers and cashing in on their sacrifice. Metropolitan Magistrate Preeti Parewa said that since the accused was a sitting MP, the court was not empowered to take up the matter and was sending back the case to District Judge for allocating it before the designated court. The complaint has referred to the Congress leader's speech delivered at a public meeting where he had said PM Modi was hiding behind the blood of soldiers and exploiting their sacrifices. On October 6, 2016, Rahul, while addressing the meeting after completion of his 'Kisan Yatra' in Uttar Pradesh, had said, "You (Modi) are hiding behind the blood of soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir and those who carried out the surgical strikes for India. You are exploiting their sacrifices, which is very wrong."

Delhi court sends to District Judge complaint against Rahul Gandhi for remarks against PM Modi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi.

In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents.

"At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings unfortunately got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply.

The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22.

"We make it clear that views, observations, findings attributed to this court in the alleged speeches, remarks made by Gandhi to media/public have been incorrectly attributed to this court. We also make it clear that this court had no occasion to make such observation in as much as it was deciding legal admissibility of certain documents which were objected by the attorney general," the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi had said in a hearing on April 15.

The court's directive came on a contempt petition filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" remark for PM Modi. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition.

The bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, was hearing the plea where senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi argued that Supreme Court's recent dismissal of preliminary objections raised by the government in the ongoing Rafale review plea hearing have been deliberately misinterpreted by the Congress president.

Rohatgi said that Rahul Gandhi had come out in the public to make a remark that the "Supreme Court in its judgement said 'Chowkidar Narendra Modi chor hai'."

The bench said, "You were right to the extent we never said what has been brought in the petition. We will seek clarification."

The Congress president had on April 10 claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft".

He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers where he is contesting against BJP leader and Union minister Smriti Irani.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi. In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents. "At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings unfortunately got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply. The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22. "We make it clear that views, observations, findings attributed to this court in the alleged speeches, remarks made by Gandhi to media/public have been incorrectly attributed to this court. We also make it clear that this court had no occasion to make such observation in as much as it was deciding legal admissibility of certain documents which were objected by the attorney general," the bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi had said in a hearing on April 15. The court's directive came on a contempt petition filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" remark for PM Modi. "The words used and attributed by him to Supreme Court in the Rafale case has been made to appear something else. He is replacing his personal statement as Supreme Court's order and trying to create prejudice," Lekhi said in her petition. The bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, was hearing the plea where senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi argued that Supreme Court's recent dismissal of preliminary objections raised by the government in the ongoing Rafale review plea hearing have been deliberately misinterpreted by the Congress president. Rohatgi said that Rahul Gandhi had come out in the public to make a remark that the "Supreme Court in its judgement said 'Chowkidar Narendra Modi chor hai'." The bench said, "You were right to the extent we never said what has been brought in the petition. We will seek clarification." The Congress president had on April 10 claimed that the apex court has made it "clear" that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "committed a theft". He had made the statement while interacting with reporters in Amethi after filing his nomination papers where he is contesting against BJP leader and Union minister Smriti Irani. (With inputs from agencies)

Regret chowkidar chor hai remark against PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi in response to Supreme Court notice

The US on Monday is set to ask five nations, including India and China, to completely end their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-may-renew-waivers-to-countries-importing-iranian-oil-including-india-207805">imports of Iranian oil</a> or be subject to US sanctions, a media report said, a decision that comes about a year after America quit the Iran nuclear deal and imposed toughest ever sanctions on the Persian Gulf nation.

The move which is seen as an escalation of the US President Donald Trump administration's "maximum pressure" on Iran comes after it last year gave temporary 180-days waiver to eight countries, including India, China and Japan among others.&nbsp;

The decision allowed them to continue buying Iranian oil as they showed "significant reduction" in oil purchase from Tehran, the Washington Post reported on Sunday.

"On Monday morning, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will announce to the media that, as of May 2, the State Department will no longer grant sanctions waivers to any country that is currently importing Iranian crude or condensate," two State Department officials were quoted as saying to the paper.

The waiver to India was also seen as a recognition by Washington of New Delhi's role in the development of the port on the Gulf of Oman, which is of immense strategic importance for the development of war-torn Afghanistan.

In May 2016, India, Iran and Afghanistan had inked a pact which entailed the establishment of Transit and Transport Corridor among the three countries using Chabahar Port as one of the regional hubs for sea transportation in Iran, besides multi-modal transport of goods and passengers across the three nations.

China and India are currently the largest importers of Iranian oil. If they don't go along with Trump's demands, that could cause tensions in both bilateral relationships and spill over into other issues, like trade, the report said.

Iran is India's third-largest oil supplier behind Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Iran supplied 18.4 million tonnes of crude oil during April 2017 and January 2018 (first 10 months of 2017-18 fiscal).

The report also said that South Korea and Japan are relatively less dependent on Iranian oil and have already been treading lightly.&nbsp;

A Turkish official has said the country is expecting&nbsp;another waiver, but it isn't getting one, the report said.

The decision to end the waivers has implications for world oil markets, which have been eagerly anticipating Trump's decision on whether to extend waivers, the paper reported.&nbsp;

The officials said market disruption should be minimal for two reasons - supply is now greater than demand and Pompeo is also set to announce offsets through commitments from other suppliers such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

The US on Monday is set to ask five nations, including India and China, to completely end their imports of Iranian oil or be subject to US sanctions, a media report said, a decision that comes about a year after America quit the Iran nuclear deal and imposed toughest ever sanctions on the Persian Gulf nation.

The US on Monday is set to ask five nations, including India and China, to completely end their imports of Iranian oil or be subject to US sanctions, a media report said, a decision that comes about a year after America quit the Iran nuclear deal and imposed toughest ever sanctions on the Persian Gulf nation. The move which is seen as an escalation of the US President Donald Trump administration's "maximum pressure" on Iran comes after it last year gave temporary 180-days waiver to eight countries, including India, China and Japan among others. The decision allowed them to continue buying Iranian oil as they showed "significant reduction" in oil purchase from Tehran, the Washington Post reported on Sunday. "On Monday morning, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will announce to the media that, as of May 2, the State Department will no longer grant sanctions waivers to any country that is currently importing Iranian crude or condensate," two State Department officials were quoted as saying to the paper. The waiver to India was also seen as a recognition by Washington of New Delhi's role in the development of the port on the Gulf of Oman, which is of immense strategic importance for the development of war-torn Afghanistan. In May 2016, India, Iran and Afghanistan had inked a pact which entailed the establishment of Transit and Transport Corridor among the three countries using Chabahar Port as one of the regional hubs for sea transportation in Iran, besides multi-modal transport of goods and passengers across the three nations. China and India are currently the largest importers of Iranian oil. If they don't go along with Trump's demands, that could cause tensions in both bilateral relationships and spill over into other issues, like trade, the report said. Iran is India's third-largest oil supplier behind Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Iran supplied 18.4 million tonnes of crude oil during April 2017 and January 2018 (first 10 months of 2017-18 fiscal). The report also said that South Korea and Japan are relatively less dependent on Iranian oil and have already been treading lightly. A Turkish official has said the country is expecting another waiver, but it isn't getting one, the report said. The decision to end the waivers has implications for world oil markets, which have been eagerly anticipating Trump's decision on whether to extend waivers, the paper reported. The officials said market disruption should be minimal for two reasons - supply is now greater than demand and Pompeo is also set to announce offsets through commitments from other suppliers such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

US to ask India, four other nations to completely end Iranian oil imports: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-was-quenching-pakistans-thirst-will-create-separate-ministry-for-water-pm-modi-212326">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, on Monday, said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) after coming to power did not follow the cowardly ways of dealing with terrorism which Congress walked on and is erasing terrorism from India like never before.

"Before 2014, anytime there was a terror attack in India, we simply offered our condolences and kept on getting hit. That policy is now redundant, we have wiped out terrorism from the country and today it exists in just some border areas of Kashmir. There too, it is being wiped out slowly," PM Modi said at a public rally in Dindori.

He also accused the Congress of almost destroying Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and said that it was the BJP which had revived the institution under the Make in India initiative and was aiming to make it a profit-making enterprise in the years to come.&nbsp;

"You (Congress) almost destroyed HAL, we (BJP) revived it under Make in India, built new defence corridors and are also are planning to increase its capacity by two to three times within 10 years," he said.

PM Modi is set to address more rallies in Maharashtra and Rajasthan today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) after coming to power did not follow the cowardly ways of dealing with terrorism which Congress walked on and is erasing terrorism from India like never before.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) after coming to power did not follow the cowardly ways of dealing with terrorism which Congress walked on and is erasing terrorism from India like never before. "Before 2014, anytime there was a terror attack in India, we simply offered our condolences and kept on getting hit. That policy is now redundant, we have wiped out terrorism from the country and today it exists in just some border areas of Kashmir. There too, it is being wiped out slowly," PM Modi said at a public rally in Dindori. He also accused the Congress of almost destroying Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and said that it was the BJP which had revived the institution under the Make in India initiative and was aiming to make it a profit-making enterprise in the years to come. "You (Congress) almost destroyed HAL, we (BJP) revived it under Make in India, built new defence corridors and are also are planning to increase its capacity by two to three times within 10 years," he said. PM Modi is set to address more rallies in Maharashtra and Rajasthan today.

Unlike Congress, BJP aggressively fought against terrorism: PM Modi

Four Janata Dal (Secular) workers, who went to Sri Lanka on a holiday on April 20, have were killed in a series of explosions on Easter Sunday.&nbsp;

They were part of a seven-member team and belonged to the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka.

The deceased have been identified as Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh, KM Lakshminarayan, M Rangappa and KG Hanumantharayappa.

The three others who are missing are H ShivuKumar, A Maregowda and H Puttaraju.

They were reportedly staying at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo.

“Out of the seven missings after the Terror Attack, four have been declared dead. Their names are Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh, K M Lakshminarayan, M Rangappa, KG Hanumantharayappa,” said Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy in a tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am deeply pained at the loss of our people in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/colombo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#colombo</a> attacks. Out of the seven missing after the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TerrorAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TerrorAttack</a>, four have been declared dead. Their names are 
- Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh 
- K M Lakshminarayan 
- M Rangappa 
- KG Hanumantharayappa
— H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy/status/1120234013589786626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Police said 24 people have been arrested in connection with the bomb blasts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four Janata Dal (Secular) workers, who went to Sri Lanka on a holiday on April 20, have were killed in a series of explosions on Easter Sunday. They were part of a seven-member team and belonged to the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka.

Four Janata Dal (Secular) workers, who went to Sri Lanka on a holiday on April 20, have were killed in a series of explosions on Easter Sunday. They were part of a seven-member team and belonged to the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. The deceased have been identified as Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh, KM Lakshminarayan, M Rangappa and KG Hanumantharayappa. The three others who are missing are H ShivuKumar, A Maregowda and H Puttaraju. They were reportedly staying at the Shangri-La hotel in Colombo. “Out of the seven missings after the Terror Attack, four have been declared dead. Their names are Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh, K M Lakshminarayan, M Rangappa, KG Hanumantharayappa,” said Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy in a tweet. I am deeply pained at the loss of our people in the #colombo attacks. Out of the seven missing after the #TerrorAttack, four have been declared dead. Their names are - Lakshmana Gowda Ramesh - K M Lakshminarayan - M Rangappa - KG Hanumantharayappa — H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) April 22, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Police said 24 people have been arrested in connection with the bomb blasts. (With inputs from agencies)

Four JD(S) workers killed in Sri Lanka blasts

Though every party professes to inject young blood in organization dynasties prevail and flourish very well in the Indian political eco-system.

The best case in example is the state of Haryana where dynasties dominate parties cutting across the state.&nbsp;

It is safe to say that if one does not have a relative in politics, it is impossible to find feet in Haryana.

From Congress, father and son duo, Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Deepender Singh Hooda are contesting elections.&nbsp;

Bhupinder Singh Hooda, a former CM who served for 10 years is contesting from Sonipat and Deependar Hudda from Rohtak Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

Bhupinder's father Ranbir Singh too was in politics and member of Lok Sabha.

Another Congress dynasty is also in the fray. Shruti Chaudhary, former MP, is again contesting from Bhiwani Mahendragarh seat. Her mother is the MLA from Tosham Vidhan Sabha constituency and leader of the Congress Legislative Party in the Haryana Vidhan Sabha.

Shruti is the granddaughter of former chief minister Bansi Lal. Her father late Chaudhary Surender Singh was a former member of Parliament and served as a minister in Haryana government.

Kumari Shailja, former Union Minister also represents political dynasty. Her father Dalbir Singh was a former Union Minister.

Another dynast in the fray is Bhavya Bishnoi. He is contesting from Haryana. His father is a sitting MLA in the state and he is the grandson of former Chief Minister Bhajan Lal. Bhavya is the Congress candidate from Hissar. Bhavya’s mother is MLA from Hansi and father Kuldeep Bishnoi&nbsp;is MLA from Adampur constituency.

Kuldeep Sharma, Congress candidate from Karnal is also the son of former Lok Sabha MP, CL Sharma.

&nbsp;Another Congress candidate Captain Ajay Yadav, who is contesting from Gurugram is the son of former MLA, Abhay Yadav. Ajay Yadav’s son is married to former CM of Bihar and Union Minister Lalu Prasad’s daughter.

The dynasties do not begin and end with Congress. Most of the regional parties are a family run empire. Dushyant Chautala, who recently floated JJP, is the son of Ajay Chautala, grandson of OP Chautala and great-grandson of Tau Devi Lal, India’s former deputy Prime Minister is contesting from Hissar.

His brother Digvijay is contesting from Sonipat against former CM Bhupinder Hudda. Karan Chautala who is the son of Abhay Singh Chautala and grandson of OP Chautala is INLD’s candidate from Kurukshetra.

Dynasties even thrive in BJP. Union Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh’s son Brijendra Singh is contesting from Hissar on BJP’s ticket. Chaudhary Birender Singh’s wife and Brijendra’s mother is also a sitting MLA from Uchhana assembly in the state. His grandfather Neki Ram was also a Cabinet minister in the Haryana government. Chaudhary Birender Singh himself is the grandson of Sir Chotu Ram who was knighted in 1937.

Similarly, Rao Inderjit Singh, Union Minister from Gurugram is the son of former CM of Haryana, Rao Birendra Singh.&nbsp;

Though every party professes to inject young blood in organization dynasties prevail and flourish very well in the Indian political eco-system. The best case in example is the state of Haryana where dynasties dominate parties cutting across the state.

Though every party professes to inject young blood in organization dynasties prevail and flourish very well in the Indian political eco-system. The best case in example is the state of Haryana where dynasties dominate parties cutting across the state. It is safe to say that if one does not have a relative in politics, it is impossible to find feet in Haryana. From Congress, father and son duo, Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Deepender Singh Hooda are contesting elections. Bhupinder Singh Hooda, a former CM who served for 10 years is contesting from Sonipat and Deependar Hudda from Rohtak Lok Sabha constituency. Bhupinder's father Ranbir Singh too was in politics and member of Lok Sabha. Another Congress dynasty is also in the fray. Shruti Chaudhary, former MP, is again contesting from Bhiwani Mahendragarh seat. Her mother is the MLA from Tosham Vidhan Sabha constituency and leader of the Congress Legislative Party in the Haryana Vidhan Sabha. Shruti is the granddaughter of former chief minister Bansi Lal. Her father late Chaudhary Surender Singh was a former member of Parliament and served as a minister in Haryana government. Kumari Shailja, former Union Minister also represents political dynasty. Her father Dalbir Singh was a former Union Minister. Another dynast in the fray is Bhavya Bishnoi. He is contesting from Haryana. His father is a sitting MLA in the state and he is the grandson of former Chief Minister Bhajan Lal. Bhavya is the Congress candidate from Hissar. Bhavya’s mother is MLA from Hansi and father Kuldeep Bishnoi is MLA from Adampur constituency. Kuldeep Sharma, Congress candidate from Karnal is also the son of former Lok Sabha MP, CL Sharma. Another Congress candidate Captain Ajay Yadav, who is contesting from Gurugram is the son of former MLA, Abhay Yadav. Ajay Yadav’s son is married to former CM of Bihar and Union Minister Lalu Prasad’s daughter. The dynasties do not begin and end with Congress. Most of the regional parties are a family run empire. Dushyant Chautala, who recently floated JJP, is the son of Ajay Chautala, grandson of OP Chautala and great-grandson of Tau Devi Lal, India’s former deputy Prime Minister is contesting from Hissar. His brother Digvijay is contesting from Sonipat against former CM Bhupinder Hudda. Karan Chautala who is the son of Abhay Singh Chautala and grandson of OP Chautala is INLD’s candidate from Kurukshetra. Dynasties even thrive in BJP. Union Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh’s son Brijendra Singh is contesting from Hissar on BJP’s ticket. Chaudhary Birender Singh’s wife and Brijendra’s mother is also a sitting MLA from Uchhana assembly in the state. His grandfather Neki Ram was also a Cabinet minister in the Haryana government. Chaudhary Birender Singh himself is the grandson of Sir Chotu Ram who was knighted in 1937. Similarly, Rao Inderjit Singh, Union Minister from Gurugram is the son of former CM of Haryana, Rao Birendra Singh.

Sons and daughters: Political dynasties galore in Haryana

Attacking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-ndas-wayanad-candidate-demands-review-of-rahul-gandhis-nomination-from-constituency-212367">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a>, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad."

"Kerala should set an example. What happened during the floods? How much Wayanad suffered? A flood which only if were carefully managed by the LDP government. The Chief Minister should take personal responsibility for not having opened dams on time because of which the people suffered. The flood was totally avoidable," she said.

"Therefore, please vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send a message out of Kerala clearly heard till Delhi and Amethi - We want people from here. We do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad," Sitharaman said while addressing a rally here.

"Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had said about the Muslim League that it is a dead horse. Today, his great-grandson comes to ride on the back of that dead horse. What an irony and Wayanad you are a witness to this irony. Do you want this? We do not want this," she said.

Sitharaman also invited the people of Wayanad to "see development works in Amethi."

"It remains one of the most backward areas of Uttar Pradesh... Wayanad needs development. It needs to develop quickly," he said.

"Wayanad needs a visionary Prime Minister to help the constituency," she said.

Sitharaman also slammed the Left Front.

"The hypocrisy that I want to highlight here is - When Rahul Gandhi was chosen by the Congress party to contest from Wayanad, the top leadership of the Left Front said that the Congress party has chosen Rahul Gandhi because they want to treat us in Kerala as their principal operant. We shall not tolerate this. We shall work to defeat him," she said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad.

Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the people here to vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send across a message to Delhi and Amethi that "you do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad." "Kerala should set an example. What happened during the floods? How much Wayanad suffered? A flood which only if were carefully managed by the LDP government. The Chief Minister should take personal responsibility for not having opened dams on time because of which the people suffered. The flood was totally avoidable," she said. "Therefore, please vote for BDJS candidate Tushar Vellappally and send a message out of Kerala clearly heard till Delhi and Amethi - We want people from here. We do not want failed MP coming and parachuting into Wayanad," Sitharaman said while addressing a rally here. "Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had said about the Muslim League that it is a dead horse. Today, his great-grandson comes to ride on the back of that dead horse. What an irony and Wayanad you are a witness to this irony. Do you want this? We do not want this," she said. Sitharaman also invited the people of Wayanad to "see development works in Amethi." "It remains one of the most backward areas of Uttar Pradesh... Wayanad needs development. It needs to develop quickly," he said. "Wayanad needs a visionary Prime Minister to help the constituency," she said. Sitharaman also slammed the Left Front. "The hypocrisy that I want to highlight here is - When Rahul Gandhi was chosen by the Congress party to contest from Wayanad, the top leadership of the Left Front said that the Congress party has chosen Rahul Gandhi because they want to treat us in Kerala as their principal operant. We shall not tolerate this. We shall work to defeat him," she said.

Don't want failed MP coming to Wayanad: Nirmala Sitharaman slams Rahul Gandhi

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy.

The accusation follows a complaint filed by Independent candidate Dhruv Lal in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency, from where Gandhi is fighting his fourth election, about alleged discrepancies in the Congress leader's election affidavit, including about non-disclosure of a company registered in the UK in the name of 'Raul Vinci'.

The Congress party's Amethi unit chief Yogendra Misra had said the objections will be countered legally on Monday.

No central leader or spokesperson has reacted to the allegations.&nbsp;

Addressing a poll meeting in Ghatampur of Kanpur Dehat, Adityanath said, "The 'naamdar' of Congress you know as Rahul Gandhi... In reality, he is not Rahul Gandhi. The country has been fooled with this name. His name is Raul Vinci. I am astonished that Congress is committing this sin of fooling the nation. The real names of Rahul and Priyanka should come before people."&nbsp;

"In Britain and Italy he is Raul Vinci and in India becomes Rahul Gandhi with a fake name," he alleged.

Amethi Returning Officer Ram Manohar Mishra had ordered the postponement of scrutiny of Gandhi's nomination papers to April 22 after Lal filed the complaint.

One of the issues Lal had raised in the complaint was on the "basis of a certificate of incorporation of a company registered in the UK wherein he (Gandhi) has declared himself a UK citizen Raul Vinci".

Seizing on the opportunity to attack Gandhi, the BJP also alleged on Saturday that the Congress chief had said that he did M Phil in development economics from Cambridge

University, but inquiries show that one 'Raul Vinci' and not Rahul Gandhi got the degree that particular year.

"We will like to know if Rahul Gandhi goes by multiple names in different countries," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao had said.

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy.

Uttar Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused Congress president Rahul Gandhi of fooling the country with his "fake name" and said he is known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain and Italy. The accusation follows a complaint filed by Independent candidate Dhruv Lal in Amethi Lok Sabha constituency, from where Gandhi is fighting his fourth election, about alleged discrepancies in the Congress leader's election affidavit, including about non-disclosure of a company registered in the UK in the name of 'Raul Vinci'. The Congress party's Amethi unit chief Yogendra Misra had said the objections will be countered legally on Monday. No central leader or spokesperson has reacted to the allegations. Addressing a poll meeting in Ghatampur of Kanpur Dehat, Adityanath said, "The 'naamdar' of Congress you know as Rahul Gandhi... In reality, he is not Rahul Gandhi. The country has been fooled with this name. His name is Raul Vinci. I am astonished that Congress is committing this sin of fooling the nation. The real names of Rahul and Priyanka should come before people." "In Britain and Italy he is Raul Vinci and in India becomes Rahul Gandhi with a fake name," he alleged. Amethi Returning Officer Ram Manohar Mishra had ordered the postponement of scrutiny of Gandhi's nomination papers to April 22 after Lal filed the complaint. One of the issues Lal had raised in the complaint was on the "basis of a certificate of incorporation of a company registered in the UK wherein he (Gandhi) has declared himself a UK citizen Raul Vinci". Seizing on the opportunity to attack Gandhi, the BJP also alleged on Saturday that the Congress chief had said that he did M Phil in development economics from Cambridge University, but inquiries show that one 'Raul Vinci' and not Rahul Gandhi got the degree that particular year. "We will like to know if Rahul Gandhi goes by multiple names in different countries," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao had said.

Rahul Gandhi known as 'Raul Vinci' in Britain, Italy: Yogi Adityanath

India is not a 'tariff king' and it has all the right to take appropriate measures to protect the interest of specific sectors like agriculture, international trade experts have said.

Rejecting the US allegation that India's import duties are one of the highest in the world, experts said that several developed countries and regions including Japan, South Korea, European Union, and America maintain "extremely high" tariffs primarily on agriculture products.

The US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that India is a "tariff king" and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods.

Biswajit Dhar, a professor of economics at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said that the US allegations are completely unfounded.

"In fact, the US import duties on several of their products are quite high such as on tobacco it is about 350 per cent and 164 per cent on peanuts. They too maintain reasonably high duties," Dhar said.

Sharing similar views, Professor at Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Rakesh Mohan Joshi said that the US allegations are not correct and in fact, they should rationalise their duty structure being a developed nation.

Trade Promotion Council of India Chairman Mohit Singla said that the assertion of the US is not factually correct.

He said that the allegation of Trump that India is a tariff king does not hold true and is unjustified.

"Like other nations, India has the right to take appropriate measures to protect its domestic interests in specific sectors as and when it is deemed fit.

Moreover, there are many countries which have much higher tariff as compared to India. Being a signatory and member of WTO, India remains committed to free, fair, and predictable trade," Singla added.

Geneva-based 164-member World Trade Organisation (WTO) is a multilateral body which frames global trade norms.

Singla claimed that countries like Japan levy 736 per cent duty on certain products; while Korea imposes 807 per cent on some goods.

Federation of Indian Exports Organisation (FIEO) said that product-specific high tariffs, like 150 per cent on alcoholic beverages, 100 per cent on coffee, and 60-75 per cent on automobiles have made India a villain in the eyes of the US President.

However, many countries in the world including Japan, South Korea, the EU, the US maintain an extremely high tariff primarily on agriculture products, FIEO Director General Ajay Sahai said.

"India's average WTO bound tariff is 48.5 per cent while average applied tariff is 13.4 per cent. The wide gap between the two clearly shows that India is not a tariff king else it would have pushed the applied tariff very close to the bound rates," Sahai said.

While bound tariffs or duties refer to the ceiling, the applied tariff is the duty which is currently in place.

Another expert, who did not wish to be named, said that the US should not level any allegation of discrimination at tariff front vis-a-vis developing countries like India as America has emerged as one of the richest nations in the world with per capita income of about USD 60,000 per annum.

"Repeated mention of India as a tariff king with cherry-picked examples like motorbikes and whiskey is disingenuous, as it conveniently ignores the overall tariff structure of the country, apart from India's developing status," the expert said.

He added that India has complied with all tariff commitments under the WTO and has made sincere efforts to reduce applied duties suo-moto to 13.7 per cent today over a period of time.

Recently, the US decided to withdraw incentives being provided to Indian exporters under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP) programme.

However, India has stated that it would not impact domestic exporters as the benefits were only about USD 190 million annually.

Despite the fact that India and the US were working on a trade package, the US decided to go ahead with its decision.

The package was covering all concerns related to bilateral trade with the US on sectors including medical devices, dairy products and agricultural goods.

America also wants a cut on duties on certain ICT products.

According to sources, India was ready to address the US concerns regarding these sectors.

The bilateral trade between India and the US has increased to USD 74.5 billion in 2017-18 from USD 64.5 billion in 2016-17.

Although India has a trade surplus with the US, India is a thriving market for US defence firms, e-commerce and technology companies.&nbsp;

India is not a 'tariff king' and it has all the right to take appropriate measures to protect the interest of specific sectors like agriculture, international trade experts have said.

India is not a 'tariff king' and it has all the right to take appropriate measures to protect the interest of specific sectors like agriculture, international trade experts have said. Rejecting the US allegation that India's import duties are one of the highest in the world, experts said that several developed countries and regions including Japan, South Korea, European Union, and America maintain "extremely high" tariffs primarily on agriculture products. The US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that India is a "tariff king" and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods. Biswajit Dhar, a professor of economics at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said that the US allegations are completely unfounded. "In fact, the US import duties on several of their products are quite high such as on tobacco it is about 350 per cent and 164 per cent on peanuts. They too maintain reasonably high duties," Dhar said. Sharing similar views, Professor at Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Rakesh Mohan Joshi said that the US allegations are not correct and in fact, they should rationalise their duty structure being a developed nation. Trade Promotion Council of India Chairman Mohit Singla said that the assertion of the US is not factually correct. He said that the allegation of Trump that India is a tariff king does not hold true and is unjustified. "Like other nations, India has the right to take appropriate measures to protect its domestic interests in specific sectors as and when it is deemed fit. Moreover, there are many countries which have much higher tariff as compared to India. Being a signatory and member of WTO, India remains committed to free, fair, and predictable trade," Singla added. Geneva-based 164-member World Trade Organisation (WTO) is a multilateral body which frames global trade norms. Singla claimed that countries like Japan levy 736 per cent duty on certain products; while Korea imposes 807 per cent on some goods. Federation of Indian Exports Organisation (FIEO) said that product-specific high tariffs, like 150 per cent on alcoholic beverages, 100 per cent on coffee, and 60-75 per cent on automobiles have made India a villain in the eyes of the US President. However, many countries in the world including Japan, South Korea, the EU, the US maintain an extremely high tariff primarily on agriculture products, FIEO Director General Ajay Sahai said. "India's average WTO bound tariff is 48.5 per cent while average applied tariff is 13.4 per cent. The wide gap between the two clearly shows that India is not a tariff king else it would have pushed the applied tariff very close to the bound rates," Sahai said. While bound tariffs or duties refer to the ceiling, the applied tariff is the duty which is currently in place. Another expert, who did not wish to be named, said that the US should not level any allegation of discrimination at tariff front vis-a-vis developing countries like India as America has emerged as one of the richest nations in the world with per capita income of about USD 60,000 per annum. "Repeated mention of India as a tariff king with cherry-picked examples like motorbikes and whiskey is disingenuous, as it conveniently ignores the overall tariff structure of the country, apart from India's developing status," the expert said. He added that India has complied with all tariff commitments under the WTO and has made sincere efforts to reduce applied duties suo-moto to 13.7 per cent today over a period of time. Recently, the US decided to withdraw incentives being provided to Indian exporters under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP) programme. However, India has stated that it would not impact domestic exporters as the benefits were only about USD 190 million annually. Despite the fact that India and the US were working on a trade package, the US decided to go ahead with its decision. The package was covering all concerns related to bilateral trade with the US on sectors including medical devices, dairy products and agricultural goods. America also wants a cut on duties on certain ICT products. According to sources, India was ready to address the US concerns regarding these sectors. The bilateral trade between India and the US has increased to USD 74.5 billion in 2017-18 from USD 64.5 billion in 2016-17. Although India has a trade surplus with the US, India is a thriving market for US defence firms, e-commerce and technology companies.

India is not a tariff king, has the right to protect specific sectors under WTO: Experts

Poll authorities have given permission to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raj-thackeray-continues-to-slam-modi-and-shah-asks-voters-to-remove-them-211362">Raj Thackeray</a>-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week.

Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier.

The Mumbai city district election office Sunday said it has set up a single window clearance system for giving permission to election campaigning for all candidates.

"Permissions to hold election meetings are given after following a due procedure. It is ensured that there is no injustice to anyone. The permission to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has been given after following a due procedure," the election office said in a statement.

In Mumbai South constituency, Shiv Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant is pitted against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora.

Though the MNS&nbsp;is not contesting elections this time, Raj Thackeray has been holding rallies across Maharashtra appealing to people to vote against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The BJP and the Sena are accusing the MNS chief of doing the bidding of the Congress and the NCP.

In coming days, Thackeray is slated to address rallies in Mumbai and suburbs.

All six Lok Sabha constituencies of Mumbai go to polls on April 29.

Poll authorities have given permission to Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week. Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier.

Poll authorities have given permission to Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to hold a rally in Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency next week. Authorities had reportedly denied permission to the rally earlier. The Mumbai city district election office Sunday said it has set up a single window clearance system for giving permission to election campaigning for all candidates. "Permissions to hold election meetings are given after following a due procedure. It is ensured that there is no injustice to anyone. The permission to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has been given after following a due procedure," the election office said in a statement. In Mumbai South constituency, Shiv Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant is pitted against Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora. Though the MNS is not contesting elections this time, Raj Thackeray has been holding rallies across Maharashtra appealing to people to vote against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP and the Sena are accusing the MNS chief of doing the bidding of the Congress and the NCP. In coming days, Thackeray is slated to address rallies in Mumbai and suburbs. All six Lok Sabha constituencies of Mumbai go to polls on April 29.

Poll officials grant permission to Raj Thackeray-led MNS' Mumbai South rally

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state.

The top election official told reporters here that after a perusal of reports of authorities including those from the general observers and presiding officers, repoll has been recommended for the consideration of the EC.

Eight polling stations falling under the Lok Sabha segment of Dharmapuri and one booth under Tiruvallur Parliamentary constituency have been recommended for repolling, he said.

Also, repolling has been recommended in one polling station falling under the Cuddalore Lok Sabha constituency.

The CEO's comment assumes significance in the wake of alleged irregularities in a number of booths falling under these constituencies when the polling was held on April 18.

In polling stations under the Lok Sabha segments of Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur, repolling has been recommended for both Parliamentary elections and bypolls to the Assembly seats of Pappireddipatti and Poonamallee.

Tiruvallur Lok Sabha segment covers Poonamallee Assembly constituency and Dharmapuri includes Pappireddipatti Assembly seat.

By-polls were held to 18 Assembly seats including Poonamallee and Pappireddipatti on April 18 along with polls to 38 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu.

Polling for Vellore Lok Sabha constituency was rescinded following the seizure of cash ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state.

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo on Sunday said he has recommended to the Election Commission to conduct repolling in 10 polling stations in the state. The top election official told reporters here that after a perusal of reports of authorities including those from the general observers and presiding officers, repoll has been recommended for the consideration of the EC. Eight polling stations falling under the Lok Sabha segment of Dharmapuri and one booth under Tiruvallur Parliamentary constituency have been recommended for repolling, he said. Also, repolling has been recommended in one polling station falling under the Cuddalore Lok Sabha constituency. The CEO's comment assumes significance in the wake of alleged irregularities in a number of booths falling under these constituencies when the polling was held on April 18. In polling stations under the Lok Sabha segments of Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur, repolling has been recommended for both Parliamentary elections and bypolls to the Assembly seats of Pappireddipatti and Poonamallee. Tiruvallur Lok Sabha segment covers Poonamallee Assembly constituency and Dharmapuri includes Pappireddipatti Assembly seat. By-polls were held to 18 Assembly seats including Poonamallee and Pappireddipatti on April 18 along with polls to 38 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. Polling for Vellore Lok Sabha constituency was rescinded following the seizure of cash ahead of the elections.

Lok Sabha polls: Repoll recommended in 10 polling stations in Tamil Nadu

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana.

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates</a> for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.&nbsp;

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Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad <a href="https://t.co/wUVX34NKXu">pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1119995648101605376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi.

Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi. Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress releases list of candidates for Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Hooda to fight from Sonipat

Goa Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant on Sunday while condemning the Sri Lankan terror attacks, said that the state government has beefed up the security around all the churches here on Easter Day.

While speaking to ANI he said,&nbsp;"I have discussed the security situation with the state Director General of Police Pranab Nanda and have instructed him to beef up security around Goa's churches."

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Goa CM Pramod Sawant: I condemn the Sri Lanka blasts. I have spoken to the police officials, we will provide maximum security to churches in Goa. <a href="https://t.co/8MIjj64WnS">pic.twitter.com/8MIjj64WnS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1119993474445533186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Goa Inspector General of Police Jaspal Singh: All police chiefs have been asked to stay alert. Also, alertness to be increased near big churches in Goa. Extensive patrolling to be done by forces who are deployed here for elections. <a href="https://t.co/zYpUeLvywZ">pic.twitter.com/zYpUeLvywZ</a>
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The chief minister insisted that since Goa is full of churches, the security built-up is needed on the occasion of Easter Sunday.

Further speaking on the issue of safety Sawant said,&nbsp;"I will also be talking to the Archbishop of Goa and seek his help to ensure the security of the churches and people."

This comes in the wake of the gruesome bomb blast attack in Sri Lanka that hit a string of high-end hotels and churches, as the Christian community marked the occasion of Easter Sunday. 207 people have lost their lives until now, while around 450 people have been injured.&nbsp;

Goa Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant on Sunday while condemning the Sri Lankan terror attacks, said that the state government has beefed up the security around all the churches here on Easter Day.

Goa Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant on Sunday while condemning the Sri Lankan terror attacks, said that the state government has beefed up the security around all the churches here on Easter Day. While speaking to ANI he said, "I have discussed the security situation with the state Director General of Police Pranab Nanda and have instructed him to beef up security around Goa's churches." Goa CM Pramod Sawant: I condemn the Sri Lanka blasts. I have spoken to the police officials, we will provide maximum security to churches in Goa. pic.twitter.com/8MIjj64WnS — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Goa Inspector General of Police Jaspal Singh: All police chiefs have been asked to stay alert. Also, alertness to be increased near big churches in Goa. Extensive patrolling to be done by forces who are deployed here for elections. pic.twitter.com/zYpUeLvywZ — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × The chief minister insisted that since Goa is full of churches, the security built-up is needed on the occasion of Easter Sunday. Further speaking on the issue of safety Sawant said, "I will also be talking to the Archbishop of Goa and seek his help to ensure the security of the churches and people." This comes in the wake of the gruesome bomb blast attack in Sri Lanka that hit a string of high-end hotels and churches, as the Christian community marked the occasion of Easter Sunday. 207 people have lost their lives until now, while around 450 people have been injured.

After serial blasts in Sri Lanka, security beefed up around Goa churches

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/not-here-to-make-false-promises-rahul-gandhi-in-kerala-211169">Rahul Gandhi </a>will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-rahul-gandhis-temple-run-in-keralas-wayanad-211166"> Amethi and Wayanad </a>- he is contesting from in the ongoing polls."

In Amethi, Smriti Irani will defeat him (Rahul Gandhi) and he will also get defeated in Wayanad. He will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country for the next elections," said Goyal.

The BJP leader alleged that Rahul Gandhi doesn't have the courage to speak against the Left even though he is contesting against a CPI candidate in Wayanad.

"We have seen so many photos of Rahul Gandhi with Sitaram Yechury. He ran away to Wayanad when it appeared that he will get defeated by Smriti Irani in Amethi. In Wayanad, he is contesting against the Left but he says he will not criticise them. He is so afraid. In a democracy, if a leader does not have the courage to speak against his opponents, he will not be able to serve the country," said Goyal.

After filing his nomination from Wayanad earlier this month, Gandhi had said that he will not say a word against the CPM in his entire campaign. "I am here to send a message of unity," he had told reporters. The Left Democratic Front has fielded prominent CPI leader PP Suneer to contest against Gandhi.

Responding to senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan's remarks that the Prime Minister should not only apologise for nominating Pragya Thakur for the Bhopal seat but also withdraw her candidature, Goyal said, "I think Prithviraj Chavan should say sorry for Congress' shameful act of terming the Hindu community as 'terror' thereby defaming a whole community."Endorsing Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s recent remark that Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav`s "fake friendship" will end on May 23 when election results will be out, Goyal said that the SP-BSP leaders pretend unity on stage but things are different off stage.&nbsp;

"I can show you at least a hundred pictures of the last six months when sometimes they hug each other, sometimes they abuse each other.&nbsp; 
Sometimes they are seen on stage holding hands but they change their opinion when they step down," he said.&nbsp;

Rubbishing former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi's allegations that the government poses a danger to her jailed husband Lalu Prasad`s life, Goyal said: "No GST is imposed on allegations".

"Lalu Prasad is in jail because of the legal proceedings. He is accused of fodder scam and he must answer the people of the country. We have not kept him in jail," he added.&nbsp;

Expressing confidence in his party coming back to power with a huge margin, Goyal said, "In 2014, in order to make Gujarat Chief Minister a Prime Minister, we took him everywhere. Now the public wants him to be the Prime Minister again. The level of excitement in the public shows that we will win with a greater margin."&nbsp;

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president Rahul Gandhi will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats - Amethi and Wayanad - he is contesting from in the ongoing polls.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that for next election Congress president Rahul Gandhi will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country because he is sure to face defeat in both the seats - Amethi and Wayanad - he is contesting from in the ongoing polls." In Amethi, Smriti Irani will defeat him (Rahul Gandhi) and he will also get defeated in Wayanad. He will have to find a seat in some neighbouring country for the next elections," said Goyal. The BJP leader alleged that Rahul Gandhi doesn't have the courage to speak against the Left even though he is contesting against a CPI candidate in Wayanad. "We have seen so many photos of Rahul Gandhi with Sitaram Yechury. He ran away to Wayanad when it appeared that he will get defeated by Smriti Irani in Amethi. In Wayanad, he is contesting against the Left but he says he will not criticise them. He is so afraid. In a democracy, if a leader does not have the courage to speak against his opponents, he will not be able to serve the country," said Goyal. After filing his nomination from Wayanad earlier this month, Gandhi had said that he will not say a word against the CPM in his entire campaign. "I am here to send a message of unity," he had told reporters. The Left Democratic Front has fielded prominent CPI leader PP Suneer to contest against Gandhi. Responding to senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan's remarks that the Prime Minister should not only apologise for nominating Pragya Thakur for the Bhopal seat but also withdraw her candidature, Goyal said, "I think Prithviraj Chavan should say sorry for Congress' shameful act of terming the Hindu community as 'terror' thereby defaming a whole community."Endorsing Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s recent remark that Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav`s "fake friendship" will end on May 23 when election results will be out, Goyal said that the SP-BSP leaders pretend unity on stage but things are different off stage. "I can show you at least a hundred pictures of the last six months when sometimes they hug each other, sometimes they abuse each other. Sometimes they are seen on stage holding hands but they change their opinion when they step down," he said. Rubbishing former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi's allegations that the government poses a danger to her jailed husband Lalu Prasad`s life, Goyal said: "No GST is imposed on allegations". "Lalu Prasad is in jail because of the legal proceedings. He is accused of fodder scam and he must answer the people of the country. We have not kept him in jail," he added. Expressing confidence in his party coming back to power with a huge margin, Goyal said, "In 2014, in order to make Gujarat Chief Minister a Prime Minister, we took him everywhere. Now the public wants him to be the Prime Minister again. The level of excitement in the public shows that we will win with a greater margin."

Rahul Gandhi will have to contest next election from a neighbouring country: Piyush Goyal

Bypoll to five assembly constituencies of West Bengal will be held on May 19 and the votes there will be counted along with those of all the Lok Sabha seats, news agency PTI reported quoting the Election Commission.

The five assembly seats - Darjeeling, Islampur, Kandi, Habibpur (ST) and Bhatpara - fell vacant after the sitting MLAs resigned following their nomination to contest the Lok Sabha elections.

Polling for the parliamentary constituencies of Darjeeling and Raiganj were held on April 18. Islampur assembly seat falls under Raiganj LS constituency.

Kandi assembly segment is under Baharampur Lok Sabha constituency where polling will be held in the fourth phase on April 29, the report added.

Habibpur falls under Malda Uttar parliamentary seat and Bhatpara under Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. These two seats will go to polls on April 23 and May 6 respectively.

The Election Commission on Saturday night said the notification for the bypolls will be issued on April 22. While the last day for filing nomination will be April 29, the last date of withdrawal of candidature will be May 2.&nbsp;

Bypoll to five assembly constituencies of West Bengal will be held on May 19 and the votes there will be counted along with those of all the Lok Sabha seats, news agency PTI reported quoting the Election Commission.

Bypoll to five assembly constituencies of West Bengal will be held on May 19 and the votes there will be counted along with those of all the Lok Sabha seats, news agency PTI reported quoting the Election Commission. The five assembly seats - Darjeeling, Islampur, Kandi, Habibpur (ST) and Bhatpara - fell vacant after the sitting MLAs resigned following their nomination to contest the Lok Sabha elections. Polling for the parliamentary constituencies of Darjeeling and Raiganj were held on April 18. Islampur assembly seat falls under Raiganj LS constituency. Kandi assembly segment is under Baharampur Lok Sabha constituency where polling will be held in the fourth phase on April 29, the report added. Habibpur falls under Malda Uttar parliamentary seat and Bhatpara under Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. These two seats will go to polls on April 23 and May 6 respectively. The Election Commission on Saturday night said the notification for the bypolls will be issued on April 22. While the last day for filing nomination will be April 29, the last date of withdrawal of candidature will be May 2.

Bypoll in 5 assembly seats in West Bengal to be held on May 19

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

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Bharatiya Janata Party releases list of candidates for Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and UP; Dr Harsh Vardhan to contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Manoj Tiwari- North East Delhi, Pravesh Verma- West Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri -South Delhi and Hardeep Puri from Amritsar <a href="https://t.co/VDaivg0A7n">pic.twitter.com/VDaivg0A7n</a>
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Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi.

The party, meanwhile, also released names of candidates from Punjab's Amritsar constituency, Madhya Pradesh's Indore and Uttar Pradesh's Ghosi constituency.

Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Amritsar.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Lalwani is the chairman of Indore Development Authority.

In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

The twenty-nine Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls in four phases beginning April 29. Punjab will go to polls on May 19 for all thirteen constituencies. Delhi will go to polls on May 12.&nbsp;

The counting for all states will be done on May 23.

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Bharatiya Janata Party releases list of candidates for Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and UP; Dr Harsh Vardhan to contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Manoj Tiwari- North East Delhi, Pravesh Verma- West Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri -South Delhi and Hardeep Puri from Amritsar pic.

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Bharatiya Janata Party releases list of candidates for Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and UP; Dr Harsh Vardhan to contest from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, Manoj Tiwari- North East Delhi, Pravesh Verma- West Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri -South Delhi and Hardeep Puri from Amritsar pic.twitter.com/VDaivg0A7n — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi. The party, meanwhile, also released names of candidates from Punjab's Amritsar constituency, Madhya Pradesh's Indore and Uttar Pradesh's Ghosi constituency. Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Amritsar. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Lalwani is the chairman of Indore Development Authority. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi. The twenty-nine Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh will go to polls in four phases beginning April 29. Punjab will go to polls on May 19 for all thirteen constituencies. Delhi will go to polls on May 12. The counting for all states will be done on May 23.

BJP releases list of candidates for Delhi, Harsh Vardhan to contest from Chandni Chowk

Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday relaxed the restrictions imposed on civilian movement on the National Highway (NH-44).&nbsp;

"The restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar and Baramulla on NH-44 would now be limited only to Sunday. There will be no prohibition on civilian traffic on Wednesday," reported news agency ANI quoting a statement from the Jammu and Kashmir government.

However, the restrictions would continue between Srinagar and Udhampur on NH-44 as earlier, the statement added.

The statement said that the government will keep reviewing the restrictions from time-to-time to strike a balance between the needs of the security forces and inconvenience caused to Jammu citizens.

"The Government is monitoring the needs of security forces on a real-time basis and making all attempts to minimize public inconvenience. For example, no restrictions were imposed on April 17, although it was a convoy day (Wednesday) as there was no need for movement of the security forces," said the statement.&nbsp;

A complete review of restrictions on the highway will be done after the last phase of elections in the state on May 6 to examine the need for continuing with them, the government statement added.

Earlier this month, the government had imposed restrictions on civilian movement on the National Highway (NH-44) connecting Jammu to Srinagar, in order to ensure adequate security to the movement of security forces.

Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday relaxed the restrictions imposed on civilian movement on the National Highway (NH-44). "The restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar and Baramulla on NH-44 would now be limited only to Sunday.

Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday relaxed the restrictions imposed on civilian movement on the National Highway (NH-44). "The restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar and Baramulla on NH-44 would now be limited only to Sunday. There will be no prohibition on civilian traffic on Wednesday," reported news agency ANI quoting a statement from the Jammu and Kashmir government. However, the restrictions would continue between Srinagar and Udhampur on NH-44 as earlier, the statement added. The statement said that the government will keep reviewing the restrictions from time-to-time to strike a balance between the needs of the security forces and inconvenience caused to Jammu citizens. "The Government is monitoring the needs of security forces on a real-time basis and making all attempts to minimize public inconvenience. For example, no restrictions were imposed on April 17, although it was a convoy day (Wednesday) as there was no need for movement of the security forces," said the statement. A complete review of restrictions on the highway will be done after the last phase of elections in the state on May 6 to examine the need for continuing with them, the government statement added. Earlier this month, the government had imposed restrictions on civilian movement on the National Highway (NH-44) connecting Jammu to Srinagar, in order to ensure adequate security to the movement of security forces.

Jammu and Kashmir govt relaxes restrictions on civilian movement on NH-44

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