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Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malegaon-blast-case-sadhvi-pragya-and-lt-col-purohit-will-be-tried-under-uaps-act-along-with-other-accused-27869">facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case</a>, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat.

"I will contest the election from Bhopal and win. Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is with me," Thakur said, speaking after emerging out of the BJP office.

Thakur had recently said she was ready for a "Dharm Yudh".

"I am ready to take on Digvijay Singh if the sanghatan (organisation, apparently referring to the BJP) asks me to do so," Thakur had told PTI last month.

Born in Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh, Thakur has had a long association with the Sangh parivar.

A post-graduate in history, she worked with the RSS' student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Durga Vahini, women's wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.

Arrested in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, she was given a clean chit by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), but the trial court refused to discharge her from the case.

The court dropped the charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against her, and she is now being tried under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

She was granted bail by the Bombay High Court in 2017.

Six people were killed and over 100 injured when a bomb went off near a mosque in Malegaon in north Maharashtra, on September 29, 2008. According to the prosecution, it was the handiwork of a Hindu extremist group.

The BJP has been holding Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, where about 4.5 lakh of the 18 lakh voters are Muslim, since 1989.

According to sources, BJP leaders went into a huddle after Digvijay Singh's candidature was announced.

In the 2018 Assembly elections, the Congress won three out of the eight assembly segments in the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, and in the remaining segments the BJP's victory margin decreased.&nbsp;

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat.

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat. "I will contest the election from Bhopal and win. Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is with me," Thakur said, speaking after emerging out of the BJP office. Thakur had recently said she was ready for a "Dharm Yudh". "I am ready to take on Digvijay Singh if the sanghatan (organisation, apparently referring to the BJP) asks me to do so," Thakur had told PTI last month. Born in Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh, Thakur has had a long association with the Sangh parivar. A post-graduate in history, she worked with the RSS' student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Durga Vahini, women's wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. Arrested in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, she was given a clean chit by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), but the trial court refused to discharge her from the case. The court dropped the charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against her, and she is now being tried under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. She was granted bail by the Bombay High Court in 2017. Six people were killed and over 100 injured when a bomb went off near a mosque in Malegaon in north Maharashtra, on September 29, 2008. According to the prosecution, it was the handiwork of a Hindu extremist group. The BJP has been holding Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, where about 4.5 lakh of the 18 lakh voters are Muslim, since 1989. According to sources, BJP leaders went into a huddle after Digvijay Singh's candidature was announced. In the 2018 Assembly elections, the Congress won three out of the eight assembly segments in the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, and in the remaining segments the BJP's victory margin decreased.

Pragya Singh joins BJP, set to take on Congress' Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-30-killed-as-rain-dust-storm-batter-gujarat-rajasthan-and-madhya-pradesh-211101">hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight</a>, officials said Wednesday.

The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief.

Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat.

The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain &amp; storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur &amp; various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm.

In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains.&nbsp;

"4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said.

Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims.

Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done.

Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents.

Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured".

Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops.

Survey of crop damage is underway.&nbsp;

BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage.&nbsp;

Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage.

The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others.

Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. 
Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat.

"Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet.

The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm.

BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics.&nbsp;

"Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged.

In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region.

Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said.&nbsp;

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state.

"While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod.

"We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added.&nbsp;

Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat.

In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said.

Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm.

In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday.

Nearly 50 people were killed as rains coupled with thunderstorm and lightning hit several parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra overnight, officials said Wednesday. The unseasonal rains and storm also caused damage to property and crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Rajasthan witnessed the maximum casualties with 21 people killed in rain-related incidents following by Madhya Pradesh where 15 were killed. While 10 people were killed in Gujarat, three were killed in Maharashtra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter in the morning to express anguish over the loss of lives in the rains in Gujarat and announce relief. Soon afterwards Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath hit out at the prime minister, accusing him of being concerned only about his home state Gujarat. The PMO in a tweet later said, "PM @narendramodi has expressed grief at the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country". "An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to unseasonal rain & storms in MP, Rajasthan, Manipur & various parts of the country has been approved from the PM's National Relief Fund. Rs 50,000 each for the injured has also been approved," the PMO said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is closely monitoring the situation in rain-hit areas and is ready to provide all possible help to states affected by rains and thunderstorm. In Jaipur, Rajasthan Relief Secretary Ashutosh A T Pednekar said 21 people died due to unseasonal rains. "4 deaths were reported in Jhalawar, Udaipur and Jaipur each, two each in Jalore and Bundi and one each in Baran, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Alwar and Hanumangarh,? he said. Compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each has been announced to the families of victims. Another official said crops have suffered damage and the assessment is being done. Several cattle were also killed in rain-related incidents. Condoling the deaths, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said in a tweet, "Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to unseasonal rains and storms in various parts of the country including Rajasthan. My thoughts and prayers are with bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured". Of the total 21 deaths, 7 are in Kota division. Heavy dust storm accompanied by moderate to heavy rains, thundershowers also lashed parts of Hadouti region (Kota division) on Tuesday causing damage to crops. Survey of crop damage is underway. BJP candidate from the constituency Om Birla demanded the state government declare compensation to farmers for crop damage. Birla also blamed the state government for not issuing an alert and taking measures to prevent crop damage. The department has predicted dust storm/thunderstorm accompanied by high-velocity winds and lightning at a few places during the next 24 hours. Officials in Bhopal said unseasonal rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning hit various parts of Madhya Pradesh, leaving 15 people dead and injuring some others. Rains claimed three lives each in Indore, Dhar and Shajapur, two in Ratlam and one each in Alirajpur, Rajgarh, Sehore and Chhindwara districts. Nath expressed grief over the deaths and charged that Modi's concerns were limited to his home state Gujarat. "Modiji, you are the PM of the country and not of Gujarat. In MP also, more than 10 persons were killed because of unseasonal rains, storm and lightning. But you have confined your feelings to Gujarat only. Though your party has no government here people live here also," Nath said in a tweet. The BJP hit back, accusing Nath of doing politics over the loss caused by rains and storm. BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said in Delhi that Nath is well aware of the procedure that the state government has to first inform the Centre about the damage in such a natural tragedy to get relief but instead of doing so, he was tweeting and doing politics. "Instead of informing the Centre, he chose to do politics over the tragedy," Baluni charged. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat government's director of relief G B Manglpara, told PTI that at least 10 people have died in the rain and dust storm reported from various areas including districts in North Gujarat and Saurashtra region. Also, a portion of a tent erected for Prime Minister Modi's rally in Himmatnagar town of North Gujarat was also damaged in the dust storm, an official earlier said. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the deceased in the western state. "While the PM has already announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh, the Gujarat government will also give Rs 2 lakh to kin of those who lost their lives," Rupani told reporters in Dahod. "We will also conduct a survey to assess the damage to crops and pay accordingly to affected persons," he added. Apart from the rain, the storm also resulted in hailstorm in some parts of Rajkot district of Saurashtra and Banaskantha district of north Gujarat. In Mehsana, farm produce kept in the open in the agriculture produce market committee premises got damaged, an official said. Besides, officials in Banaskantha said the watermelon crop, mainly grown in and around Deesa, got damaged due to hailstorm and thunderstorm. In Maharashtra, a 71-year-old woman, a 32-year-old man and a temple priest died when lightning struck them in Nashik district during rains on Tuesday, police said.

Rains, thunderstorm leave nearly 50 dead in 4 states

The F-21 multi-role fighter jet will give India a "significant edge" with greater standoff capability, American defence giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockheed-martin-denies-paks-claims-to-sue-india-over-shooting-down-f-16-200687">Lockheed Martin</a> has said and claimed that producing it locally will also strengthen the country's integration into the world-wide network of advanced fighter aircraft technology.&nbsp;

Lockheed Martin during the Aero India show in Bengaluru in February unveiled the F-21 multi-role fighter jet for India, to be produced locally.

The Maryland-based company, which had earlier offered its F-16 fighter jets to India, said the F-21 addresses the IAF's unique requirements and integrates India into the world's largest fighter aircraft ecosystem.

Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems would produce the F-21 in India.&nbsp;

Vivek Lall, vice president for strategy and business development, Lockheed, said, "While it is inappropriate for us to compare specific capabilities, the F-21 will give India a significant edge with greater standoff capability, greater staying power with less fuel burn, and network data linking capabilities across all platforms. The tactics India employs with the F-21 will also be different - uniquely developed by the Indian Air Force,"&nbsp;he said.

"The F-21 will meet all of India's performance, capability and advanced technology requirements - the same requirements all other 4th generation competitors are offering. As we pursue cutting-edge technologies for the F-21, some capabilities may be evaluated as discrete, integrated functions," Lall said.

Refuting reports that the F-21 fighter jet is rebranding of the F-16, Lall said that while aircraft structures may look familiar, the differences become clear when looking at the unique capabilities of the F-21.

This includes an Advanced APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which has detection ranges nearly double that of previous mechanically scanned array radars and the ability to track and attack more targets with higher precision, he said.

It has an Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) System, developed uniquely for India, that provides enhanced survivability against ground and air threats; Long-Range Infrared Search and Track (IRST), enabling pilots to detect threats without detecting them and Triple Missile Launcher Adapters (TMLAs) allowing the F-21 to carry 40 per cent more air-to-air weapons, he said.&nbsp;

"The F-21 proposal is unique in that the F-21 production line will be in India, and Indian industry will also be integrated into the global F-16 production and sustainment ecosystem. Approval by the US Government for such an important strategic move signals a significant development in US-India relations," Lall told PTI in an interview.

"The unmatched ecosystem we will partner with Indian industry and Lockheed Martin's top suppliers to develop will further strengthen India's integration into the worldwide network of advanced fighter aircraft technology and cutting-edge production and sustainment," he said.

The F-21 also demonstrates Lockheed Martin's commitment to India: to deliver an advanced, scalable fighter to the Indian Air Force that also provides unrivaled industrial partnership opportunities, he asserted.

Responding to a question on recent controversy surrounding F-16 aircraft, Lall said it is not for Lockheed to comment on any such matters, but the company is confident the F-21 is the best solution to meet the Indian Air Force's capability needs, provide 'Make in India' industrial opportunities and accelerate India-US cooperation on advanced technologies, including but not limited to fighter aircraft.&nbsp;

The F-21 multi-role fighter jet will give India a "significant edge" with greater standoff capability, American defence giant Lockheed Martin has said and claimed that producing it locally will also strengthen the country's integration into the world-wide network of advanced fighter aircraft technology.

The F-21 multi-role fighter jet will give India a "significant edge" with greater standoff capability, American defence giant Lockheed Martin has said and claimed that producing it locally will also strengthen the country's integration into the world-wide network of advanced fighter aircraft technology. Lockheed Martin during the Aero India show in Bengaluru in February unveiled the F-21 multi-role fighter jet for India, to be produced locally. The Maryland-based company, which had earlier offered its F-16 fighter jets to India, said the F-21 addresses the IAF's unique requirements and integrates India into the world's largest fighter aircraft ecosystem. Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems would produce the F-21 in India. Vivek Lall, vice president for strategy and business development, Lockheed, said, "While it is inappropriate for us to compare specific capabilities, the F-21 will give India a significant edge with greater standoff capability, greater staying power with less fuel burn, and network data linking capabilities across all platforms. The tactics India employs with the F-21 will also be different - uniquely developed by the Indian Air Force," he said. "The F-21 will meet all of India's performance, capability and advanced technology requirements - the same requirements all other 4th generation competitors are offering. As we pursue cutting-edge technologies for the F-21, some capabilities may be evaluated as discrete, integrated functions," Lall said. Refuting reports that the F-21 fighter jet is rebranding of the F-16, Lall said that while aircraft structures may look familiar, the differences become clear when looking at the unique capabilities of the F-21. This includes an Advanced APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which has detection ranges nearly double that of previous mechanically scanned array radars and the ability to track and attack more targets with higher precision, he said. It has an Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) System, developed uniquely for India, that provides enhanced survivability against ground and air threats; Long-Range Infrared Search and Track (IRST), enabling pilots to detect threats without detecting them and Triple Missile Launcher Adapters (TMLAs) allowing the F-21 to carry 40 per cent more air-to-air weapons, he said. "The F-21 proposal is unique in that the F-21 production line will be in India, and Indian industry will also be integrated into the global F-16 production and sustainment ecosystem. Approval by the US Government for such an important strategic move signals a significant development in US-India relations," Lall told PTI in an interview. "The unmatched ecosystem we will partner with Indian industry and Lockheed Martin's top suppliers to develop will further strengthen India's integration into the worldwide network of advanced fighter aircraft technology and cutting-edge production and sustainment," he said. The F-21 also demonstrates Lockheed Martin's commitment to India: to deliver an advanced, scalable fighter to the Indian Air Force that also provides unrivaled industrial partnership opportunities, he asserted. Responding to a question on recent controversy surrounding F-16 aircraft, Lall said it is not for Lockheed to comment on any such matters, but the company is confident the F-21 is the best solution to meet the Indian Air Force's capability needs, provide 'Make in India' industrial opportunities and accelerate India-US cooperation on advanced technologies, including but not limited to fighter aircraft.

F-21 will give India 'significant edge' with greater standoff capability: Lockheed Martin

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP candidate Kanimozhi on Wednesday reacted on I-T raids that were conducted at her house in Thoothukudi on Tuesday.

Targetting the Central government, she said that in the past five years, "every government agency has been exploited," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

She alleged that only "opposition leaders have been targetted repeatedly".

"Over the last 5 yrs, every government agency has been exploited. They've become a part of BJP. CBI, ED, RBI IT, EC all have been compromised. Only opposition leaders have been targeted repeatedly," the leader said.&nbsp;

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DMK MP candidate Kanimozhi on I-T raids at her house in Thoothukudi: Over the last 5 yrs, every government agency has been exploited. They've become a part of BJP. CBI, ED, RBI IT, EC all have been compromised. Only opposition leaders have been targeted repeatedly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/qoRlv9hXCE">pic.twitter.com/qoRlv9hXCE</a>
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Earlier in the day, she said that the BJP cannot prevent her from winning in the ongoing elections.

She also dubbed the raids as "anti-democratic, deliberately planned and tested".

"BJP cannot prevent my success through this income tax raid. The raid is anti-democratic, deliberately planned and tested, and no documents have been seized," Kanimozhi told reporters here after completion of raids.

"They want to intimidate us through this. They have come to stop elections in Thoothukudi. DMK volunteers will be working with more enthusiasm," she added.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP candidate Kanimozhi on Wednesday reacted on I-T raids that were conducted at her house in Thoothukudi on Tuesday. Targetting the Central government, she said that in the past five years, "every government agency has been exploited," news agency ANI reported.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP candidate Kanimozhi on Wednesday reacted on I-T raids that were conducted at her house in Thoothukudi on Tuesday. Targetting the Central government, she said that in the past five years, "every government agency has been exploited," news agency ANI reported. She alleged that only "opposition leaders have been targetted repeatedly". "Over the last 5 yrs, every government agency has been exploited. They've become a part of BJP. CBI, ED, RBI IT, EC all have been compromised. Only opposition leaders have been targeted repeatedly," the leader said. DMK MP candidate Kanimozhi on I-T raids at her house in Thoothukudi: Over the last 5 yrs, every government agency has been exploited. They've become a part of BJP. CBI, ED, RBI IT, EC all have been compromised. Only opposition leaders have been targeted repeatedly. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/qoRlv9hXCE — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2019 × Earlier in the day, she said that the BJP cannot prevent her from winning in the ongoing elections. She also dubbed the raids as "anti-democratic, deliberately planned and tested". "BJP cannot prevent my success through this income tax raid. The raid is anti-democratic, deliberately planned and tested, and no documents have been seized," Kanimozhi told reporters here after completion of raids. "They want to intimidate us through this. They have come to stop elections in Thoothukudi. DMK volunteers will be working with more enthusiasm," she added. (With inputs from ANI)

Opposition leaders have been targetted repeatedly, every government agency has been exploited: Kanimozhi on I-T raids

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/middle-class-has-always-suffered-under-congress-pm-modi-in-tripura-208537">Congress</a>, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India.

Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

"Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said.

Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state.

"The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said.

The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region.

"The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said.

The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said.

The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances".

Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university.

Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card."

Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to. "Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said. Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. "The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said. The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region. "The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said. The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said. The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances". Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university. Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card." Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Congress blowing Pakistan's trumpet more than India's: Modi in Manipur

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest.

Satish Gautam of Bharatiya Janata Party is fighting "mahagathbandhan" candidate Ajeet Baliyan of Bahujan Samaj Party and Bijendra Singh of Congress in the election to be held on Thursday.

The BJP candidate appears to be banking on a division of the Muslim vote while the two opposition candidates are hoping for its consolidation in favour of one of them.

Sameer Mishra, a businessman, said he does not like the hard-line Gautam takes.

"People, like me, chose him to bring pro-people policies and not instigate controversies like the one he did in Aligarh Muslim University," Mishra said.

In May 2018, Gautam demanded the portrait of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, be removed from AMU student union office where it had been for decades. Violent protests ensued.

"This aggressive and communal attitude has shown him in bad light. We would have supported another BJP candidate but not him again," Mishra added.

But other residents of the city admitted that Gautam has a strong Brahmin voter base, about five lakh in the constituency.

Brahmins, Vaishya and Chatriya together make up about seven lakh of the total 18.73 lakh voters in Aligarh, a lock-making hub in western Uttar Pradesh.

There are 3.50 lakh Muslims voters while Jat, Yadav and Lodi account for four lakh. Around 3.50 lakh voters belong to SC/ST communities.

In 2014, Gautam won the seat by beating BSP's Arvind Kumar Singh by over two lakh votes. "But that time Gautam was riding on Modi wave. Things have changed since," said a BJP member, who did not wished to be named.

"There is strong opposition for Gautam by veteran leader Kalyan Singh who did not support his candidature and was vocal about it too within party cadres," the BJP member added.

"Another factor which might act against him is the anger brewing among lock industrialists who are extremely angry with him over demonetisation and high GST rate," said Tribhuvan Sarmisht, a tea seller on Shahjamal Road, a hub of small lock industries in the area.

Prakash Sharma, the owner of Rajput locks, agrees with him.

"Most of the industries on this road closed post demonetisation and GST implementation. Even my business is running in loss, it would definitely reflect in the result of the polls," Sharma said.

"I know Gautam wasn't directly responsible for demonetisation and GST but even our demands and situation was put forward by him which is his responsibility as an elected member," he said.

This anti-incumbency may benefit both Congress and mahagathbandhan who have promised to focus on education and improve the city's infrastructure, many residents feel.

A split in Muslim votes between Congress and mahagathbandhan may prove a challenge, the residents say, and added the mahagathbandhan candidate, Baliyan, a newcomer and Jat leader, has a better chance due to his strong support base also among SC/ST voters.

"It is high time that Muslims do tactical voting as that could play a very important role in the turnout in the election," said Ali Nadeem Rezavi, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University.

Nusrat Jahan, a primary school teacher, said the Congress candidate, Singh, has fought the election 12 times so she is thinking of giving the mahagathbandhan candidate a chance.

"It is yet to be seen how other voters think but for now, I think, Baliyan has a better chance as he would have the combined support of BSP-SP-RLD voters," she said.

Aligarh goes to poll in the second phase of elections on April 18. Khair, Baroli, Atroli, Kol and Aligarh city are assembly segments in the constituency.&nbsp;

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest.

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest. Satish Gautam of Bharatiya Janata Party is fighting "mahagathbandhan" candidate Ajeet Baliyan of Bahujan Samaj Party and Bijendra Singh of Congress in the election to be held on Thursday. The BJP candidate appears to be banking on a division of the Muslim vote while the two opposition candidates are hoping for its consolidation in favour of one of them. Sameer Mishra, a businessman, said he does not like the hard-line Gautam takes. "People, like me, chose him to bring pro-people policies and not instigate controversies like the one he did in Aligarh Muslim University," Mishra said. In May 2018, Gautam demanded the portrait of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, be removed from AMU student union office where it had been for decades. Violent protests ensued. "This aggressive and communal attitude has shown him in bad light. We would have supported another BJP candidate but not him again," Mishra added. But other residents of the city admitted that Gautam has a strong Brahmin voter base, about five lakh in the constituency. Brahmins, Vaishya and Chatriya together make up about seven lakh of the total 18.73 lakh voters in Aligarh, a lock-making hub in western Uttar Pradesh. There are 3.50 lakh Muslims voters while Jat, Yadav and Lodi account for four lakh. Around 3.50 lakh voters belong to SC/ST communities. In 2014, Gautam won the seat by beating BSP's Arvind Kumar Singh by over two lakh votes. "But that time Gautam was riding on Modi wave. Things have changed since," said a BJP member, who did not wished to be named. "There is strong opposition for Gautam by veteran leader Kalyan Singh who did not support his candidature and was vocal about it too within party cadres," the BJP member added. "Another factor which might act against him is the anger brewing among lock industrialists who are extremely angry with him over demonetisation and high GST rate," said Tribhuvan Sarmisht, a tea seller on Shahjamal Road, a hub of small lock industries in the area. Prakash Sharma, the owner of Rajput locks, agrees with him. "Most of the industries on this road closed post demonetisation and GST implementation. Even my business is running in loss, it would definitely reflect in the result of the polls," Sharma said. "I know Gautam wasn't directly responsible for demonetisation and GST but even our demands and situation was put forward by him which is his responsibility as an elected member," he said. This anti-incumbency may benefit both Congress and mahagathbandhan who have promised to focus on education and improve the city's infrastructure, many residents feel. A split in Muslim votes between Congress and mahagathbandhan may prove a challenge, the residents say, and added the mahagathbandhan candidate, Baliyan, a newcomer and Jat leader, has a better chance due to his strong support base also among SC/ST voters. "It is high time that Muslims do tactical voting as that could play a very important role in the turnout in the election," said Ali Nadeem Rezavi, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University. Nusrat Jahan, a primary school teacher, said the Congress candidate, Singh, has fought the election 12 times so she is thinking of giving the mahagathbandhan candidate a chance. "It is yet to be seen how other voters think but for now, I think, Baliyan has a better chance as he would have the combined support of BSP-SP-RLD voters," she said. Aligarh goes to poll in the second phase of elections on April 18. Khair, Baroli, Atroli, Kol and Aligarh city are assembly segments in the constituency.

In Aligarh, BJP candidate facing strong anti-incumbency; residents say unhappy over AMU row

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory.

Addressing an election rally in Maharashtra's Sangli, Shah said, "The credit to bring development in Maharashtra goes to the BJP government as it lagged behind in every area under the rule of Congress and NCP. It was the BJP and Shiv Sena government who worked very hard to restore Maharashtra's lost glory."

"Rahul Baba is sympathising with the poor now. Sharad Pawar ruled for so many years... the Gandhi family ruled the country for five generations... But they did nothing for the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of the society," he said.

Comparing the funds allocated for the state under BJP and Congress government, Shah said, "Under the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government gave only Rs 1.15 billion for the development of Maharashtra. But, when you made Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of this country, Maharashtra received Rs 4 lakh 38 thousand 760 crores under the 14th Finance Commission."

The BJP president also lambasted the Congress for raising questions over the country's security. He said, "For ten years, there was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in the country; they put the security of the country at stake for vote bank. They did nothing even when our soldiers were beheaded by terrorists."

"There were only two countries in the world, which used to take revenge for the blood of their soldiers -- one America and the other is Israel. Now, the third is India under the Narendra Modi government. As this is a land of Shivaji Maharaj, our country's defence, security and culture are important for all of us. I can guarantee you that only Narendra Modi can secure them," Shah added.

Slamming the Congress for not adopting a tough approach on terror, Shah said that the most important task accomplished by the BJP government is providing security to the country. "Kashmir is an integral part of India and no one can separate it. Congress can't keep our country secure and safe. Only Prime Minister Modi is capable of doing this and we will adopt 'zero-tolerance'&nbsp;policy against terrorism."

"In Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah put a demand of having two prime ministers in the country, I want to ask Rahul Gandhi, what is his response to those who want to divide the country," he asked.

Claiming that Congress party, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati are supporting illegal migrants in the name of human rights, Shah said, "Why you are favouring them? Are they (illegal migrants) your 'chachere bhai'&nbsp;(cousins)? What about the bomb blasts orchestrated by them? They are like termites on the internal security of our country and our soldiers'&nbsp;rights."

Shah asserted that the BJP's Sankalp Patra (manifesto) is in the favour of the country and the party will ensure development in every sector. "We will ensure development in every sector as we are committed to 'sabka sath sabka vikas'. We have provided reservation to Savarn Samaj (community) and I have asked Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to give benefits to farmers through retrospective effect," he said.

The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory. Addressing an election rally in Maharashtra's Sangli, Shah said, "The credit to bring development in Maharashtra goes to the BJP government as it lagged behind in every area under the rule of Congress and NCP. It was the BJP and Shiv Sena government who worked very hard to restore Maharashtra's lost glory." "Rahul Baba is sympathising with the poor now. Sharad Pawar ruled for so many years... the Gandhi family ruled the country for five generations... But they did nothing for the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of the society," he said. Comparing the funds allocated for the state under BJP and Congress government, Shah said, "Under the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government gave only Rs 1.15 billion for the development of Maharashtra. But, when you made Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of this country, Maharashtra received Rs 4 lakh 38 thousand 760 crores under the 14th Finance Commission." The BJP president also lambasted the Congress for raising questions over the country's security. He said, "For ten years, there was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in the country; they put the security of the country at stake for vote bank. They did nothing even when our soldiers were beheaded by terrorists." "There were only two countries in the world, which used to take revenge for the blood of their soldiers -- one America and the other is Israel. Now, the third is India under the Narendra Modi government. As this is a land of Shivaji Maharaj, our country's defence, security and culture are important for all of us. I can guarantee you that only Narendra Modi can secure them," Shah added. Slamming the Congress for not adopting a tough approach on terror, Shah said that the most important task accomplished by the BJP government is providing security to the country. "Kashmir is an integral part of India and no one can separate it. Congress can't keep our country secure and safe. Only Prime Minister Modi is capable of doing this and we will adopt 'zero-tolerance' policy against terrorism." "In Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah put a demand of having two prime ministers in the country, I want to ask Rahul Gandhi, what is his response to those who want to divide the country," he asked. Claiming that Congress party, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati are supporting illegal migrants in the name of human rights, Shah said, "Why you are favouring them? Are they (illegal migrants) your 'chachere bhai' (cousins)? What about the bomb blasts orchestrated by them? They are like termites on the internal security of our country and our soldiers' rights." Shah asserted that the BJP's Sankalp Patra (manifesto) is in the favour of the country and the party will ensure development in every sector. "We will ensure development in every sector as we are committed to 'sabka sath sabka vikas'. We have provided reservation to Savarn Samaj (community) and I have asked Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to give benefits to farmers through retrospective effect," he said. The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.

BJP, Shiv Sena government restore Maharashtra's lost glory: Amit Shah

The NCP has dared the government to carry out raids at the home of MNS chief Raj Thackeray, who has been asking party workers to vote against the ruling BJP. NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik’s remarks came after the Maharashtra BJP sought to know which Lok Sabha candidate would incur expenses of the poll rallies of Thackeray, whose party has not fielded any candidate for the Lok Sabha polls.

Thackeray, who supported the BJP in the 2014 polls, has already addressed a few public meetings in Nanded, Solapur and Kolhapur and is expected to hold rallies in Satara and Baramati, where the NCP has fielded its sitting MPs Udayanraje Bhosale and Supriya Sule, respectively. The MNS leader’s move asking his party workers to vote against the BJP this time is likely to help the electoral cause of the opposition Congress and NCP. “The government should conduct raids at Raj Thackeray’s residence if it has guts,” Malik told reporters here on Tuesday.

“Thackeray backed the BJP in the last (Lok Sabha) elections. But since he is addressing rallies opposing Modi now, the details of expenses of his rallies are being sought,” he claimed. The BJP on Saturday wrote to state Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) seeking to know which Lok Sabha candidate would incur the cost of Thackeray’s ongoing political rallies. In a letter addressed to CEO Ashwani Kumar, senior BJP minister Vinod Tawde said Thackeray has been holding political rallies across the state, despite theMNSnot contesting the Lok Sabha elections.

The NCP has dared the government to carry out raids at the home of MNS chief Raj Thackeray, who has been asking party workers to vote against the ruling BJP. NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik’s remarks came after the Maharashtra BJP sought to know which Lok Sabha candidate would incur expenses of the poll rallies of Thackeray, whose party has not fielded any candidate for the Lok Sabha polls.

The NCP has dared the government to carry out raids at the home of MNS chief Raj Thackeray, who has been asking party workers to vote against the ruling BJP. NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik’s remarks came after the Maharashtra BJP sought to know which Lok Sabha candidate would incur expenses of the poll rallies of Thackeray, whose party has not fielded any candidate for the Lok Sabha polls. Thackeray, who supported the BJP in the 2014 polls, has already addressed a few public meetings in Nanded, Solapur and Kolhapur and is expected to hold rallies in Satara and Baramati, where the NCP has fielded its sitting MPs Udayanraje Bhosale and Supriya Sule, respectively. The MNS leader’s move asking his party workers to vote against the BJP this time is likely to help the electoral cause of the opposition Congress and NCP. “The government should conduct raids at Raj Thackeray’s residence if it has guts,” Malik told reporters here on Tuesday. “Thackeray backed the BJP in the last (Lok Sabha) elections. But since he is addressing rallies opposing Modi now, the details of expenses of his rallies are being sought,” he claimed. The BJP on Saturday wrote to state Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) seeking to know which Lok Sabha candidate would incur the cost of Thackeray’s ongoing political rallies. In a letter addressed to CEO Ashwani Kumar, senior BJP minister Vinod Tawde said Thackeray has been holding political rallies across the state, despite theMNSnot contesting the Lok Sabha elections.

NCP dares government to conduct raids at MNS chief Raj Thackeray’s home

As Tamil Nadu heads to polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday all eyes are on Sivaganga, a parliament seat in South Tamil Nadu held by P Chidambaram seven times since 1984.

Chidambaram's son and Congress nominee Karti will face triangular contest from BJP national secretary H Raja and the candidate of TTV Dhinakaran's Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) here.&nbsp;

In one of the keenly watched constituencies in the state both the Congress and BJP bank on their Dravidian allies' organisational strength to win the seat. DMK and AIADMK have alliance with Congress and BJP respectively.

The 47-year old Karti, who is facing corruption cases, is currently on bail. He has been maintaining that the cases were politically motivated.

On the other hand, Raja is perceived as accessible and well known.

AMMK has aligned with the Social Democratic Party of India and hopes that it would give an edge in getting Muslim votes. While Karti's main poll plank is voting out Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raja is wooing the voters saying P Chidambaram had not addressed issues facing the constituency despite being a union minister for a long period during the Congress regimes.

In the 2014 elections, Karti, on his maiden electoral foray, was comprehensively defeated here while the AIADMK had wrested the seat.&nbsp;

The AIADMK, DMK, Congress and the BJP had then contested the elections with smaller allies.

Karti in his campaign focuses on his party's showpiece scheme of 'Nyay,' asserting it will be a game changer in the lives of the poor. He also assures village women folk of lowering the cable television charges to enable them to watch their favourite soap operas.

Raja's campaign, though has references to national security, is not to the extent seen in BJP's campaign elsewhere in the country. He addresses more of local issues such as the implementation of Cauvery Gundaru River linking project, making Sivaganga a textile hub for spurring employment opportunities.

Though 26 candidates including Kamal Haasan-led Makkal Needhi Maiam's Kavingnar Snekan are in the fray, the main contest is among the Congress, BJP and the AMMK.&nbsp;

As Tamil Nadu heads to polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday all eyes are on Sivaganga, a parliament seat in South Tamil Nadu held by P Chidambaram seven times since 1984.

As Tamil Nadu heads to polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday all eyes are on Sivaganga, a parliament seat in South Tamil Nadu held by P Chidambaram seven times since 1984. Chidambaram's son and Congress nominee Karti will face triangular contest from BJP national secretary H Raja and the candidate of TTV Dhinakaran's Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) here. In one of the keenly watched constituencies in the state both the Congress and BJP bank on their Dravidian allies' organisational strength to win the seat. DMK and AIADMK have alliance with Congress and BJP respectively. The 47-year old Karti, who is facing corruption cases, is currently on bail. He has been maintaining that the cases were politically motivated. On the other hand, Raja is perceived as accessible and well known. AMMK has aligned with the Social Democratic Party of India and hopes that it would give an edge in getting Muslim votes. While Karti's main poll plank is voting out Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raja is wooing the voters saying P Chidambaram had not addressed issues facing the constituency despite being a union minister for a long period during the Congress regimes. In the 2014 elections, Karti, on his maiden electoral foray, was comprehensively defeated here while the AIADMK had wrested the seat. The AIADMK, DMK, Congress and the BJP had then contested the elections with smaller allies. Karti in his campaign focuses on his party's showpiece scheme of 'Nyay,' asserting it will be a game changer in the lives of the poor. He also assures village women folk of lowering the cable television charges to enable them to watch their favourite soap operas. Raja's campaign, though has references to national security, is not to the extent seen in BJP's campaign elsewhere in the country. He addresses more of local issues such as the implementation of Cauvery Gundaru River linking project, making Sivaganga a textile hub for spurring employment opportunities. Though 26 candidates including Kamal Haasan-led Makkal Needhi Maiam's Kavingnar Snekan are in the fray, the main contest is among the Congress, BJP and the AMMK.

In Sivaganga, challenge for Karti is to wrest back the seat his father held for 30 years  

The United Nations owes India USD 38 million, the highest it has to pay to any country, for the peacekeeping operations as of March 2019, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said as he voiced concern over the world body's deteriorating financial health.

In his report on improving the financial situation of the world body, he said, as of March 31, 2019, the total amount payable to troop- and police-contributing countries with respect to active peacekeeping missions was USD 265 million.

Of this, the UN owes USD 38 million to India, followed by Rwanda (USD 31 million), Pakistan (USD 28 million), Bangladesh (USD 25 million) and Nepal (USD 23 million), Guterres said in his report.

He said the arrears to troop- and police-contributing (TCCs/PCCs) countries could increase to USD 588 million by June 2019 "in the worst-case scenario".

The UN chief added that which troop- and police-contributing countries will or will not be paid depends on the cash position of the individual missions to which they contribute and is not determined by their individual capacity to shoulder that unfair burden.

"That has created a paradox. The United Nations is now effectively borrowing for prolonged periods from troop- and police-contributing countries. Many of them are low-income countries for which that imposes a significant financial burden.

At the same time, the Organisation is asking those same countries to do more to train their personnel and improve the quality of their equipment, all while operating in increasingly challenging environments. The United Nations, however, is not fulfilling its obligation towards them in a timely manner," he said.

Guterres further said that troop- and police-contributing countries make every effort to provide well-trained and well-equipped personnel to peacekeeping operations, and they continue to improve on that objective.

"Reimbursement by the UN for their contributions is key to supporting those efforts. The delays in reimbursing the contributing countries expose them to financial challenges in pursuit of their efforts and consequently have an adverse impact on the operations and the delivery of their mandates," he said.

Earlier this year, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin had said that the financial situation of the United Nations peacekeeping, particularly the non-payment/delayed payment of arrears to the troop/police-contributing countries, is a "cause for concern".

He had said that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs/PCCs, even as contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue unaddressed.

"It results in TCCs/PCCs bearing unsustainable burdens. In some cases, TCCs and PCCs are owed 100 to 200 times their cumulative annual financial contributions to the UN," he had said.

Guterres said while the UN is working to become more effective, nimble, accountable, transparent and efficient, the success of the organisation's efforts depends not only on the internal efforts of the Secretariat but also on the support of Member States and on the predictability and adequacy of their financial contributions to UN programmes and activities.

Expressing concern about the organisation's deteriorating financial health, the UN chief, said the UN is facing deepening liquidity problems in its regular budget, a trend that must be urgently halted and reversed.

"Peacekeeping operations also face frequent cash constraints that forced the Organisation to postpone the settlement of its obligations to troop- and police-contributing countries," he said.

The UN had a positive cash balance of USD 412 million at the end of 2010 but it finished 2018 with a negative cash balance of USD 323 million a decrease of USD 735 million in an eight-year period.

Guterres said that regular budget assessments are issued at the beginning of each year and member states are required to pay their contributions in full within 30 days.

In 2017 and 2018, 73 member states had paid their contributions in full by the end of the first quarter, compared with 62 in 2016 and 67 in 2015. So far, 74 member states have paid in full in 2019.

"Regrettably, some member states pay neither in full nor on time. The level of arrears at the end of 2018 was USD 529 million, equivalent to more than 21 per cent of that year's assessments and nearly 150 per cent of the liquidity reserves," he said.

The United States is responsible for 22 per cent of the USD 5.4 billion regular budget for 2018 and 2019 and more than 28 per cent of the USD 6.7 billion peacekeeping budget for the year to June 30.

As of the end of the 2017/18 peacekeeping fiscal year, outstanding contributions to peacekeeping operations amounted to almost USD 2 billion, well above the USD 1.3 billion unpaid as on June 30, 2017.

"The overall level of unpaid peacekeeping contributions is also affected by the decision of one Member State to contribute at a level approximately 3 per cent below its applicable rate of assessment," he said.

The UN chief requested the General Assembly to increase the Working Capital Fund to USD 350 million effective July 1, 2019 and to create a Peacekeeping Working Capital Fund of USD 250 million and authorise its use to address the liquidity challenges of active peacekeeping operations among ways to help improve the financial situation of the world body and deal with timely payment of dues to troop and police contributing countries.&nbsp;

The United Nations owes India USD 38 million, the highest it has to pay to any country, for the peacekeeping operations as of March 2019, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said as he voiced concern over the world body's deteriorating financial health.

The United Nations owes India USD 38 million, the highest it has to pay to any country, for the peacekeeping operations as of March 2019, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said as he voiced concern over the world body's deteriorating financial health. In his report on improving the financial situation of the world body, he said, as of March 31, 2019, the total amount payable to troop- and police-contributing countries with respect to active peacekeeping missions was USD 265 million. Of this, the UN owes USD 38 million to India, followed by Rwanda (USD 31 million), Pakistan (USD 28 million), Bangladesh (USD 25 million) and Nepal (USD 23 million), Guterres said in his report. He said the arrears to troop- and police-contributing (TCCs/PCCs) countries could increase to USD 588 million by June 2019 "in the worst-case scenario". The UN chief added that which troop- and police-contributing countries will or will not be paid depends on the cash position of the individual missions to which they contribute and is not determined by their individual capacity to shoulder that unfair burden. "That has created a paradox. The United Nations is now effectively borrowing for prolonged periods from troop- and police-contributing countries. Many of them are low-income countries for which that imposes a significant financial burden. At the same time, the Organisation is asking those same countries to do more to train their personnel and improve the quality of their equipment, all while operating in increasingly challenging environments. The United Nations, however, is not fulfilling its obligation towards them in a timely manner," he said. Guterres further said that troop- and police-contributing countries make every effort to provide well-trained and well-equipped personnel to peacekeeping operations, and they continue to improve on that objective. "Reimbursement by the UN for their contributions is key to supporting those efforts. The delays in reimbursing the contributing countries expose them to financial challenges in pursuit of their efforts and consequently have an adverse impact on the operations and the delivery of their mandates," he said. Earlier this year, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin had said that the financial situation of the United Nations peacekeeping, particularly the non-payment/delayed payment of arrears to the troop/police-contributing countries, is a "cause for concern". He had said that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs/PCCs, even as contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue unaddressed. "It results in TCCs/PCCs bearing unsustainable burdens. In some cases, TCCs and PCCs are owed 100 to 200 times their cumulative annual financial contributions to the UN," he had said. Guterres said while the UN is working to become more effective, nimble, accountable, transparent and efficient, the success of the organisation's efforts depends not only on the internal efforts of the Secretariat but also on the support of Member States and on the predictability and adequacy of their financial contributions to UN programmes and activities. Expressing concern about the organisation's deteriorating financial health, the UN chief, said the UN is facing deepening liquidity problems in its regular budget, a trend that must be urgently halted and reversed. "Peacekeeping operations also face frequent cash constraints that forced the Organisation to postpone the settlement of its obligations to troop- and police-contributing countries," he said. The UN had a positive cash balance of USD 412 million at the end of 2010 but it finished 2018 with a negative cash balance of USD 323 million a decrease of USD 735 million in an eight-year period. Guterres said that regular budget assessments are issued at the beginning of each year and member states are required to pay their contributions in full within 30 days. In 2017 and 2018, 73 member states had paid their contributions in full by the end of the first quarter, compared with 62 in 2016 and 67 in 2015. So far, 74 member states have paid in full in 2019. "Regrettably, some member states pay neither in full nor on time. The level of arrears at the end of 2018 was USD 529 million, equivalent to more than 21 per cent of that year's assessments and nearly 150 per cent of the liquidity reserves," he said. The United States is responsible for 22 per cent of the USD 5.4 billion regular budget for 2018 and 2019 and more than 28 per cent of the USD 6.7 billion peacekeeping budget for the year to June 30. As of the end of the 2017/18 peacekeeping fiscal year, outstanding contributions to peacekeeping operations amounted to almost USD 2 billion, well above the USD 1.3 billion unpaid as on June 30, 2017. "The overall level of unpaid peacekeeping contributions is also affected by the decision of one Member State to contribute at a level approximately 3 per cent below its applicable rate of assessment," he said. The UN chief requested the General Assembly to increase the Working Capital Fund to USD 350 million effective July 1, 2019 and to create a Peacekeeping Working Capital Fund of USD 250 million and authorise its use to address the liquidity challenges of active peacekeeping operations among ways to help improve the financial situation of the world body and deal with timely payment of dues to troop and police contributing countries.

United Nations owes India $38 million for peacekeeping operations: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

Srinagar is going to the polls for the second time in two years and this Lok Sabha constituency - comprising three districts of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal – is scheduled to go for polls on April 18 in the second phase of the five-phased elections in the state. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In 2017 by-election, only seven per cent voters turned out to exercise their franchise and during large scale violence, nine people died.

It was a relatively low key campaign in Srinagar with only Farooq Abdullah, who is seeking a fourth term in the lower house of Parliament from the seat, making his presence felt like a candidate.

Abdullah is pitched against political greenhorns Aga Moshin of the PDP, Irfan Ansari of the People's Conference and Khalid Jehangir of the BJP.

An election official said there were only 46 rallies in Srinagar district, a city of over 12 lakh residents, during the campaign period.

The polling on April 18 will be keenly watched within and outside Kashmir as the constituency recorded an all-time low of 7.2 per cent voter turn out in 2017 bye-election, marred by violence on polling day that left nine persons dead and scores of others injured.

Stringent security measures have been put in place for the polling as additional security personnel have been deployed across the Srinagar constituency to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of elections, the official said.

As many as 12,90,318 voters are eligible to cast their votes with authorities having set up 1,716 polling stations in the constituency.&nbsp;

For migrant voters of the constituency, 26 polling stations have been set up with 21 in Jammu, one in Udhampur and four in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha polls are being held in seven-phases for 543 seats on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, and counting will be on May 23.

Srinagar is going to the polls for the second time in two years and this Lok Sabha constituency - comprising three districts of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal – is scheduled to go for polls on April 18 in the second phase of the five-phased elections in the state.

Srinagar is going to the polls for the second time in two years and this Lok Sabha constituency - comprising three districts of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal – is scheduled to go for polls on April 18 in the second phase of the five-phased elections in the state. In 2017 by-election, only seven per cent voters turned out to exercise their franchise and during large scale violence, nine people died. It was a relatively low key campaign in Srinagar with only Farooq Abdullah, who is seeking a fourth term in the lower house of Parliament from the seat, making his presence felt like a candidate. Abdullah is pitched against political greenhorns Aga Moshin of the PDP, Irfan Ansari of the People's Conference and Khalid Jehangir of the BJP. An election official said there were only 46 rallies in Srinagar district, a city of over 12 lakh residents, during the campaign period. The polling on April 18 will be keenly watched within and outside Kashmir as the constituency recorded an all-time low of 7.2 per cent voter turn out in 2017 bye-election, marred by violence on polling day that left nine persons dead and scores of others injured. Stringent security measures have been put in place for the polling as additional security personnel have been deployed across the Srinagar constituency to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of elections, the official said. As many as 12,90,318 voters are eligible to cast their votes with authorities having set up 1,716 polling stations in the constituency. For migrant voters of the constituency, 26 polling stations have been set up with 21 in Jammu, one in Udhampur and four in New Delhi. The Lok Sabha polls are being held in seven-phases for 543 seats on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, and counting will be on May 23.

Srinagar: A high stakes battle for PDP, National Conference

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, National Commission for Women, Central Waqf Council and All India Muslim Personal Law Board on a plea seeking direction that Muslim women be allowed to enter mosques and offer prayers.

The petition, filed by Pune-based couple Yasmeen and Zubair Ahmed Peerzade, seeks direction to declare the prohibition on entry of Muslim women into mosques in the country "illegal and unconstitutional" as it violates of women's fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, 21, 25 and 29 of the Indian Constitution.

The bench told the counsel appearing for the petitioner that it will hear the matter because of the apex court's judgment in the case involving Kerala's Sabarimala temple.

"The only reason we may hear you is because of our judgment in the Sabarimala temple case," it said.

In September last year, the court had ruled in favour of allowing menstruating women to enter the holy shrine of lord Ayyapa in Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The court will decide if right to equality can be applied to non-state actors.

&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, National Commission for Women, Central Waqf Council and All India Muslim Personal Law Board on a plea seeking direction that Muslim women be allowed to enter mosques and offer prayers.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, National Commission for Women, Central Waqf Council and All India Muslim Personal Law Board on a plea seeking direction that Muslim women be allowed to enter mosques and offer prayers. The petition, filed by Pune-based couple Yasmeen and Zubair Ahmed Peerzade, seeks direction to declare the prohibition on entry of Muslim women into mosques in the country "illegal and unconstitutional" as it violates of women's fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, 21, 25 and 29 of the Indian Constitution. The bench told the counsel appearing for the petitioner that it will hear the matter because of the apex court's judgment in the case involving Kerala's Sabarimala temple. "The only reason we may hear you is because of our judgment in the Sabarimala temple case," it said. In September last year, the court had ruled in favour of allowing menstruating women to enter the holy shrine of lord Ayyapa in Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The court will decide if right to equality can be applied to non-state actors.

Women's entry in mosques: Supreme Court issues notice to the Centre, women's panel

The Supreme Court on Tuesday took note of the action taken by Election Commission against politicians who made statements violating model code of conduct. "It seems the Election Commission has finally woken up to its power and taken action against politicians," it said.

The court made the observation while hearing Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati's plea against ban imposed by the Election Commission on addressing public rallies for 48 hours. The top court refused to entertain Mayawati's plea saying there is no further action required.

The Election Commission had on Monday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-2019-election-commission-of-india-bans-adityanath-mayawati-for-violating-model-code-of-conduct-210566">temporarily banned Mayawati</a>, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/azam-khan-and-maneka-gandhi-also-temporarily-barred-from-election-campaigning-210703">Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan</a> and Union minister and BJP leader Maneka Gandhi from campaigning. While Yogi Adityanath and Azam Khan had been banned for 72 hours, Mayawati and Maneka Gandhi was barred from holding rallies for 48 hours.

The commission took the action against the political leaders for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches.

The action by Election Commission came after the Supreme Court took note of the alleged hate speeches during poll campaign and sought to know from the poll panel the action initiated against them so far. The bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the Election Commission on Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering.

Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found. Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday took note of the action taken by Election Commission against politicians who made statements violating model code of conduct. "It seems the Election Commission has finally woken up to its power and taken action against politicians," it said.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday took note of the action taken by Election Commission against politicians who made statements violating model code of conduct. "It seems the Election Commission has finally woken up to its power and taken action against politicians," it said. The court made the observation while hearing Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati's plea against ban imposed by the Election Commission on addressing public rallies for 48 hours. The top court refused to entertain Mayawati's plea saying there is no further action required. The Election Commission had on Monday temporarily banned Mayawati, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan and Union minister and BJP leader Maneka Gandhi from campaigning. While Yogi Adityanath and Azam Khan had been banned for 72 hours, Mayawati and Maneka Gandhi was barred from holding rallies for 48 hours. The commission took the action against the political leaders for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches. The action by Election Commission came after the Supreme Court took note of the alleged hate speeches during poll campaign and sought to know from the poll panel the action initiated against them so far. The bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the Election Commission on Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering. Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found. Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut.

Election Commission has finally woken up to its power: Supreme Court on campaign ban on politicians

Jet Airways' management is said to have proposed a temporary shutdown. Here's a summary of the worsening crisis at jet airways.

WION Gravitas: What next for Jet Airways?

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, son of late former Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand CM ND Tiwari, was brought dead to Delhi's Max Saket hospital on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported quoting DCP South Delhi Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

"We received an emergency call from the residence of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari at 04:41 pm this afternoon. An ambulance brought him to Max Hospital, Saket, where he was declared 'brought dead` at the hospital emergency. As per the established procedure, we have informed the authorities. We express condolences at the passing away of Mr Tiwari," Max Hospital said in a statement.&nbsp;

"His death is natural, I have no suspicion but I will reveal later what circumstances led to his death," Rohit's mother Ujjala Tiwari told reporters.&nbsp;

Rohit used to reside in his Delhi's Defence Colony home, from where he was reportedly brought to the hospital on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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DCP South Delhi Vijay Kumar: Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, son of late former Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand CM N D Tiwari, has been brought dead to Max Saket hospital.Further details are awaited. <a href="https://t.co/PedZ53NECz">pic.twitter.com/PedZ53NECz</a>
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Rohit Shekhar Tiwari was the biological son of ND Tiwari and Ujjwala Sharma, who Tiwari married in 2014.&nbsp;

He fought a court case to prove himself as the son of late Congress leader ND Tiwari. The veteran politician had accepted Rohit as his son in 2016 after a long legal battle which had even reached the Supreme Court before reconciliation.

In January 2017, Rohit Shekhar had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

(With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, son of late former Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand CM ND Tiwari, was brought dead to Delhi's Max Saket hospital on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported quoting DCP South Delhi Vijay Kumar.

Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, son of late former Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand CM ND Tiwari, was brought dead to Delhi's Max Saket hospital on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported quoting DCP South Delhi Vijay Kumar. "We received an emergency call from the residence of Rohit Shekhar Tiwari at 04:41 pm this afternoon. An ambulance brought him to Max Hospital, Saket, where he was declared 'brought dead` at the hospital emergency. As per the established procedure, we have informed the authorities. We express condolences at the passing away of Mr Tiwari," Max Hospital said in a statement. "His death is natural, I have no suspicion but I will reveal later what circumstances led to his death," Rohit's mother Ujjala Tiwari told reporters. Rohit used to reside in his Delhi's Defence Colony home, from where he was reportedly brought to the hospital on Tuesday. DCP South Delhi Vijay Kumar: Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, son of late former Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand CM N D Tiwari, has been brought dead to Max Saket hospital.Further details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/PedZ53NECz — ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2019 × Rohit Shekhar Tiwari was the biological son of ND Tiwari and Ujjwala Sharma, who Tiwari married in 2014. He fought a court case to prove himself as the son of late Congress leader ND Tiwari. The veteran politician had accepted Rohit as his son in 2016 after a long legal battle which had even reached the Supreme Court before reconciliation. In January 2017, Rohit Shekhar had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). (With inputs from agencies)

Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister ND Tiwari's son, Rohit Shekhar Tiwari, passes away

The Income Tax department on Tuesday carried out raids at a house where DMK candidate Kanimozhi is staying in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi.

Official sources indicated that the searches were held following "some inputs," but they did not elaborate. Income Tax officials were also "assisting," the local poll officials, they told PTI. The outcome of the searches were not known immediately.

DMK workers and supporters protested the incident while DMK chief MK Stalin blamed the centre, crying foul.&nbsp;

"Crores and crores of rupees are kept in Tamilisai Soundararajan's (BJP TN chief) residence, why no raids there? Modi is using IT, CBI, judiciary and now EC to interfere in elections. They are doing this as they fear losing," Stalin told media today.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Madras High Court earlier in the day dismissed a plea to prevent DMK's candidates Kanimozhi and Kathir Anand from fighting the Lok Sabha polls for allegedly violating the Model Code Conduct.

A bench of justices S Manikumar and Subramonium Prasad dismissed the plea after the Election Commission told the court that the two have been booked for allegedly resorting to electoral malpractices, news agency PTI reported.

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MK Stalin on IT raids on Kanimozhi: Crores and crores of rupees are kept in Tamilisai Soundararajan's(BJP TN Chief) residence, why no raids there? Modi is using IT,CBI,Judiciary and now EC to interfere in elections.They are doing this as they fear losing <a href="https://t.co/31Q7Lalf5M">pic.twitter.com/31Q7Lalf5M</a>
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As the plea came up for hearing before the bench, the poll panel counsel Niranjan Rajagopalan told the judges that FIRs have been filed against both the candidates on complaints of violation of the code.

Tamil Nadu is set to go to general polls this Thursday.

Kanimozhi is the DMK candidate from Tuticorin, while Anand was set to contest from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elections-commission-calls-off-polls-in-tamil-nadus-vellore-over-cash-haul-210961">Vellore</a>. However, the Election Commission has cancelled Lok Sabha polls in Vellore citing seizure of huge cash from an associate of a DMK leader recently.&nbsp;

Petitioner V Abdullah Sait of Ramanathapuram had urged the court to direct the EC to initiate action against Kanimozhi and Anand. He had also sought the court's directive to the poll panel to bar the duo from contesting the polls.

Sait alleged in his petition that Kanimozhi had been 'clandestinely' distributing cash to voters during campaigning and police have booked a case against DMK members in this regard.

Last month, the Income Tax department and Election Commission officials had raided DMK treasurer Durai Murugan's residence in Vellore, and reportedly seized a large amount of unaccounted cash.

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

The Income Tax department on Tuesday carried out raids at a house where DMK candidate Kanimozhi is staying in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi. Official sources indicated that the searches were held following "some inputs," but they did not elaborate.

The Income Tax department on Tuesday carried out raids at a house where DMK candidate Kanimozhi is staying in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi. Official sources indicated that the searches were held following "some inputs," but they did not elaborate. Income Tax officials were also "assisting," the local poll officials, they told PTI. The outcome of the searches were not known immediately. DMK workers and supporters protested the incident while DMK chief MK Stalin blamed the centre, crying foul. "Crores and crores of rupees are kept in Tamilisai Soundararajan's (BJP TN chief) residence, why no raids there? Modi is using IT, CBI, judiciary and now EC to interfere in elections. They are doing this as they fear losing," Stalin told media today. Meanwhile, the Madras High Court earlier in the day dismissed a plea to prevent DMK's candidates Kanimozhi and Kathir Anand from fighting the Lok Sabha polls for allegedly violating the Model Code Conduct. A bench of justices S Manikumar and Subramonium Prasad dismissed the plea after the Election Commission told the court that the two have been booked for allegedly resorting to electoral malpractices, news agency PTI reported. MK Stalin on IT raids on Kanimozhi: Crores and crores of rupees are kept in Tamilisai Soundararajan's(BJP TN Chief) residence, why no raids there? Modi is using IT,CBI,Judiciary and now EC to interfere in elections.They are doing this as they fear losing pic.twitter.com/31Q7Lalf5M — ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2019 × As the plea came up for hearing before the bench, the poll panel counsel Niranjan Rajagopalan told the judges that FIRs have been filed against both the candidates on complaints of violation of the code. Tamil Nadu is set to go to general polls this Thursday. Kanimozhi is the DMK candidate from Tuticorin, while Anand was set to contest from Vellore. However, the Election Commission has cancelled Lok Sabha polls in Vellore citing seizure of huge cash from an associate of a DMK leader recently. Petitioner V Abdullah Sait of Ramanathapuram had urged the court to direct the EC to initiate action against Kanimozhi and Anand. He had also sought the court's directive to the poll panel to bar the duo from contesting the polls. Sait alleged in his petition that Kanimozhi had been 'clandestinely' distributing cash to voters during campaigning and police have booked a case against DMK members in this regard. Last month, the Income Tax department and Election Commission officials had raided DMK treasurer Durai Murugan's residence in Vellore, and reportedly seized a large amount of unaccounted cash. (With inputs from PTI)

Just 2 days before Lok Sabha polls, Income Tax department raids DMK leader Kanimozhi's house

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday.

"An FIR has been lodged against Sidhu under a section Indian Penal Code and section 123 (3) of the Representation of the People Act," Bihar CEO H R Srinivasa told PTI. 
Section 123 (3) bars promotion of, or attempt to promote, feelings of enmity or hatred between different classes of the citizens of India on grounds of religion, race, caste, community, or language, by a candidate or his agent or any other person.

Addressing an election rally in Katihar, cricketer-turned-politician Sidhu has stoked a controversy by urging Muslim voters of a Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar with a sizeable population of the minority community to vote en bloc and defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The comments by former test cricketer at a rally in Katihar, where he was canvassing in support of veteran Congress leader and former union minister Tariq Anwar.

"Do not consider yourself as being in a minority. You constitute the majority here. You are about 64 per cent. Do not fall into the trap laid down by people like Owaisi (president of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen).

They have been propped up by the BJP," Sidhu had said on Monday at a rally held at Barasol, in Balrampur assembly segment falling under the Katihar Lok Sabha seat in Bihar.&nbsp;

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday.

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday. "An FIR has been lodged against Sidhu under a section Indian Penal Code and section 123 (3) of the Representation of the People Act," Bihar CEO H R Srinivasa told PTI. Section 123 (3) bars promotion of, or attempt to promote, feelings of enmity or hatred between different classes of the citizens of India on grounds of religion, race, caste, community, or language, by a candidate or his agent or any other person. Addressing an election rally in Katihar, cricketer-turned-politician Sidhu has stoked a controversy by urging Muslim voters of a Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar with a sizeable population of the minority community to vote en bloc and defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The comments by former test cricketer at a rally in Katihar, where he was canvassing in support of veteran Congress leader and former union minister Tariq Anwar. "Do not consider yourself as being in a minority. You constitute the majority here. You are about 64 per cent. Do not fall into the trap laid down by people like Owaisi (president of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen). They have been propped up by the BJP," Sidhu had said on Monday at a rally held at Barasol, in Balrampur assembly segment falling under the Katihar Lok Sabha seat in Bihar.

FIR against Navjot Singh Sidhu over communal remarks

Union Home Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reacted over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-shatrughan-sinhas-wife-poonam-sinha-joins-samajwadi-party-210893">Shatrughan Sinha's wife Poonam Sinha contesting from Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow</a> Lok Sabha seat on a SP ticket.

Singh said that someone must contest. Calling Lucknow the land of "tehzeeb (etiquette)" he said the battle will be fought with full dignity.

"Yes somebody must contest, that is the beauty of democracy. We will fight elections with full dignity, tehzeeb jo Lucknow ki bohot badi dharohar hai usko bhi hum kayam rakhenge," Singh told media today.&nbsp;

Veteran actor and former BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha's wife Poonam Sinha joined Samajwadi Party on Tuesday in the presence of Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav.

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Congress releases list of three names for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> , Acharya Pramod Krishnam to contest from Lucknow,Vinay Kumar Pandey from Kaiserganj(UP) and Pankaj Sanghvi from Indore(Madhya Pradesh)
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The development comes just 10 days after Shatrughan Sinha joined Congress and was given a ticket from Bihar's Patna Sahib. Poonam Sinha is set to take Union Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat. Poonam Sinha will file nomination on April 18.

The SP had urged Congress party not to field a candidate from Lucknow to ensure BJP's defeat.&nbsp;

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HM Rajnath Singh on Poonam Sinha to contest against him from Lucknow as SP-BSP-RLD candidate: Yes somebody must contest, that is the beauty of democracy. We will fight elections with full dignity, tehzeeb jo Lucknow ki bohot badi dharohar hai usko bhi hum kayam rakhenge. <a href="https://t.co/rtFHtIxuqi">pic.twitter.com/rtFHtIxuqi</a>
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Congress, later in the day, released&nbsp;list of three names for Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;Acharya Pramod Krishnam will take on Rajnath Singh, Poonam Sinha from Lucknow.

Vinay Kumar Pandey is Congress' candidate from Kaiserganj and Pankaj Sanghvi from Indore, Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reacted over Shatrughan Sinha's wife Poonam Sinha contesting from Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on a SP ticket.

Union Home Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reacted over Shatrughan Sinha's wife Poonam Sinha contesting from Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on a SP ticket. Singh said that someone must contest. Calling Lucknow the land of "tehzeeb (etiquette)" he said the battle will be fought with full dignity. "Yes somebody must contest, that is the beauty of democracy. We will fight elections with full dignity, tehzeeb jo Lucknow ki bohot badi dharohar hai usko bhi hum kayam rakhenge," Singh told media today. Veteran actor and former BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha's wife Poonam Sinha joined Samajwadi Party on Tuesday in the presence of Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav. Congress releases list of three names for #LokSabhaElections2019 , Acharya Pramod Krishnam to contest from Lucknow,Vinay Kumar Pandey from Kaiserganj(UP) and Pankaj Sanghvi from Indore(Madhya Pradesh) — ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2019 × The development comes just 10 days after Shatrughan Sinha joined Congress and was given a ticket from Bihar's Patna Sahib. Poonam Sinha is set to take Union Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat. Poonam Sinha will file nomination on April 18. The SP had urged Congress party not to field a candidate from Lucknow to ensure BJP's defeat. HM Rajnath Singh on Poonam Sinha to contest against him from Lucknow as SP-BSP-RLD candidate: Yes somebody must contest, that is the beauty of democracy. We will fight elections with full dignity, tehzeeb jo Lucknow ki bohot badi dharohar hai usko bhi hum kayam rakhenge. pic.twitter.com/rtFHtIxuqi — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 16, 2019 × Congress, later in the day, released list of three names for Lok Sabha polls. Acharya Pramod Krishnam will take on Rajnath Singh, Poonam Sinha from Lucknow. Vinay Kumar Pandey is Congress' candidate from Kaiserganj and Pankaj Sanghvi from Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

Will fight with full dignity: Rajnath Singh welcomes Poonam Sinha as opponent from Lucknow

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday.

The Odisha Election Watch is a part of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

"Of the 244 candidates in the fray for the 35 assembly segments, 70 are crorepatis," said Odisha Election Watch Convenor Ranjan Mohanty, adding that 13 candidates have assets worth Rs. 5 crore and above, and 24 others have assets between Rs. 2 crore and Rs 5 crore.

While Mr Patnaik, who is contesting from two assembly segments, Hinjili and Bijepur, tops the list of rich candidates with total assets worth Rs. 63 crore, BJP candidate KV Singhdeo contesting from Patnagarh segment in Bolangir district stands second with total assets worth Rs 37 crore, the report said.

BJD's Jharsuguda candidate, Naba Kishore Das, is in the third place with total assets worth Rs 33 crore, it said.

Mr Das is followed by BJD candidate Saroj Kumar Meher of Patnagarh seat with total assets worth Rs 31 crore.

Other rich candidates are BJP's Bijay Kumar Swain (Rs. 15 cr), BJD's Arkesh Narayan Singhdeo (Rs. 15 crore), BJD's Nandini Devi (Rs. 11 crore), BJP's Dinesh Jain (Rs. 8 cr), BJP's Pitamber Acharya (Rs. 7 crore) and BJD's Kishore Kumar Mohanty (Rs. 7 crore), the report added.

BSP candidate Narayan Versa contesting from Bhatli assembly segment only has Rs. 8,044.

Incidentally, KV Singhdeo's wife Sangeeta Singhdeo was also on the top of the list of candidates for the Lok Sabha with assets worth Rs 37 crore.

 
Of the 35 candidates contesting for five Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of the elections, 11 are crorepatis, he said.

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday.

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday. The Odisha Election Watch is a part of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR). "Of the 244 candidates in the fray for the 35 assembly segments, 70 are crorepatis," said Odisha Election Watch Convenor Ranjan Mohanty, adding that 13 candidates have assets worth Rs. 5 crore and above, and 24 others have assets between Rs. 2 crore and Rs 5 crore. While Mr Patnaik, who is contesting from two assembly segments, Hinjili and Bijepur, tops the list of rich candidates with total assets worth Rs. 63 crore, BJP candidate KV Singhdeo contesting from Patnagarh segment in Bolangir district stands second with total assets worth Rs 37 crore, the report said. BJD's Jharsuguda candidate, Naba Kishore Das, is in the third place with total assets worth Rs 33 crore, it said. Mr Das is followed by BJD candidate Saroj Kumar Meher of Patnagarh seat with total assets worth Rs 31 crore. Other rich candidates are BJP's Bijay Kumar Swain (Rs. 15 cr), BJD's Arkesh Narayan Singhdeo (Rs. 15 crore), BJD's Nandini Devi (Rs. 11 crore), BJP's Dinesh Jain (Rs. 8 cr), BJP's Pitamber Acharya (Rs. 7 crore) and BJD's Kishore Kumar Mohanty (Rs. 7 crore), the report added. BSP candidate Narayan Versa contesting from Bhatli assembly segment only has Rs. 8,044. Incidentally, KV Singhdeo's wife Sangeeta Singhdeo was also on the top of the list of candidates for the Lok Sabha with assets worth Rs 37 crore. Of the 35 candidates contesting for five Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of the elections, 11 are crorepatis, he said.

Naveen Patnaik richest candidate contesting second phase of Odisha polls

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

"What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on.&nbsp;

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-alliance-with-aap-rahul-gandhi-says-times-running-out-ready-to-give-4-seats-210651">Your tweet</a> exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read.&nbsp;

Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too".

Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!"&nbsp;

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कौन सा U-टर्न?अभी तो बातचीत चल रही थी 
 
आपका ट्वीट दिखाता है कि गठबंधन आपकी इच्छा नहीं मात्र दिखावा है।मुझे दुःख है आप बयान बाज़ी कर रहे हैं 
 
आज देश को मोदी-शाह के ख़तरे से बचाना अहं है।दुर्भाग्य कि आप UP और अन्य राज्यों में भी मोदी विरोधी वोट बाँट कर मोदी जी की मदद कर रहे हैं <a href="https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S">https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1117774571711500288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"An alliance between the Congress and AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Congress Delhi in-charge PC Chacko said that the AAP is suggesting an alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi.&nbsp;

"Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states," Chacko said on Monday.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi. "What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on. "Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read. Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too". Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!" कौन सा U-टर्न?अभी तो बातचीत चल रही थी आपका ट्वीट दिखाता है कि गठबंधन आपकी इच्छा नहीं मात्र दिखावा है।मुझे दुःख है आप बयान बाज़ी कर रहे हैं आज देश को मोदी-शाह के ख़तरे से बचाना अहं है।दुर्भाग्य कि आप UP और अन्य राज्यों में भी मोदी विरोधी वोट बाँट कर मोदी जी की मदद कर रहे हैं https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 15, 2019 × "An alliance between the Congress and AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet. He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out". Meanwhile, Congress Delhi in-charge PC Chacko said that the AAP is suggesting an alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi. "Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states," Chacko said on Monday.

'What U-turn? Tweet suggests you're not interested in alliance': Kejriwal slams Rahul Gandhi 

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has said that no order has been issued by it so far regarding cancellation of Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu`s Vellore constituency.

The clarification comes after various media reports claimed that the poll body is mulling over cancelling polls in the Vellore parliamentary constituency over the alleged use of money to influence voters.

However, ECI's official spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan said no such order has been issued yet. Vellore parliamentary constituency is scheduled to go to polls on April 18. The results of the elections will be announced on May 23.

As per the seat-sharing arrangement of Congress-DMK alliance, the Vellore seat has gone to DMK. Similarly, an alliance of BJP-AIADMK and other regional parties has conceded the seat to AIADMK.

The DMK has fielded Kadhir Anand from Vellore Parliamentary constituency against AIADMK`s AC Shanmugam.

Last month, the Income Tax department and Election Commission officials had raided DMK treasurer Durai Murugan's residence in Vellore, and reportedly seized a large amount of unaccounted cash. Raids were also conducted at Kingston Engineering College and Durai Murugan B.Ed College, which are owned by Kadhir Anand.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has said that no order has been issued by it so far regarding cancellation of Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu`s Vellore constituency.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has said that no order has been issued by it so far regarding cancellation of Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu`s Vellore constituency. The clarification comes after various media reports claimed that the poll body is mulling over cancelling polls in the Vellore parliamentary constituency over the alleged use of money to influence voters. However, ECI's official spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan said no such order has been issued yet. Vellore parliamentary constituency is scheduled to go to polls on April 18. The results of the elections will be announced on May 23. As per the seat-sharing arrangement of Congress-DMK alliance, the Vellore seat has gone to DMK. Similarly, an alliance of BJP-AIADMK and other regional parties has conceded the seat to AIADMK. The DMK has fielded Kadhir Anand from Vellore Parliamentary constituency against AIADMK`s AC Shanmugam. Last month, the Income Tax department and Election Commission officials had raided DMK treasurer Durai Murugan's residence in Vellore, and reportedly seized a large amount of unaccounted cash. Raids were also conducted at Kingston Engineering College and Durai Murugan B.Ed College, which are owned by Kadhir Anand.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: No order issued for cancellation of election in Vellore, says Election Commission

After the Pulwama attack, the Narendra Modi government has given emergency powers to the three services to buy whatever equipment is required by them for safeguarding the borders with Pakistan.

Under the powers given to the three services they can buy the equipment of their choice within three months at the cost of up to Rs 300 crore per case, government sources told ANI.

The emergency powers were given to the forces within few weeks after the Pulwama attack in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed and India started increasing vigil at the borders with Pakistan, they said.

In this regard, the services are moving a number of proposals like, the Army has moved a proposal to buy around 250 spike missiles from Israel, which would be meeting its emergency requirements.

The Air Force has also shown interest in the acquisition of certain missiles from the international market which would help it in meeting requirements, in case of hostilities on borders.

For the procurement under the emergency orders, the forces need not even take concurrence of the Integrated Financial Advisor from the defence finance department.

The defence Ministry feels that since the forces have to fight wars, they should decide on their requirement and priority in the acquisition and buy that equipment.&nbsp;

After the Pulwama attack, the Narendra Modi government has given emergency powers to the three services to buy whatever equipment is required by them for safeguarding the borders with Pakistan.

After the Pulwama attack, the Narendra Modi government has given emergency powers to the three services to buy whatever equipment is required by them for safeguarding the borders with Pakistan. Under the powers given to the three services they can buy the equipment of their choice within three months at the cost of up to Rs 300 crore per case, government sources told ANI. The emergency powers were given to the forces within few weeks after the Pulwama attack in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed and India started increasing vigil at the borders with Pakistan, they said. In this regard, the services are moving a number of proposals like, the Army has moved a proposal to buy around 250 spike missiles from Israel, which would be meeting its emergency requirements. The Air Force has also shown interest in the acquisition of certain missiles from the international market which would help it in meeting requirements, in case of hostilities on borders. For the procurement under the emergency orders, the forces need not even take concurrence of the Integrated Financial Advisor from the defence finance department. The defence Ministry feels that since the forces have to fight wars, they should decide on their requirement and priority in the acquisition and buy that equipment.

Post-Pulwama attack, government grants emergency powers to armed forces to buy weapon systems

Civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola said today that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jet-airways-shares-sink-8-amid-reports-of-temporary-shutdown-of-operations-210939">Jet Airways has sought emergency </a>funds from banks.

The minister informed that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jet-airways-crisis-naresh-goyal-opts-out-of-bidding-process-shut-down-threat-looms-210852">cash-strapped airlines </a>has been operating just five planes. The airline had more than 120 aircraft operating a year ago.

Jet Airways said it is awaiting "emergency liquidity support" from the SBI-led consortium of lenders to arrest further deterioration in its services.&nbsp;Kharola said the airlines has sought Rs 400 crores emergency funds from banks.

"The company's leadership, in consultation with its board of directors, is engaged with lenders in connection with the said emergency funding request... The company is also in constant engagement with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Civil Aviation in this regard," it said in a filing to the BSE.

The filing was made in response to a clarification sought by the exchange regarding reports that the airline was likely to temporarily shut down its operations.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aRFGV14BNyE" width="560"></iframe>

On Monday, Jet Airways shares tanked eight per cent amid reports of a shutdown. The scrip tumbled 7.62 per cent to close at Rs 241.85 on the BSE. During the day, it had plummeted 18.56 per cent to Rs 213.20.

Reports said Jet's lenders have been attempting to bring in a new investor to buy a stake of up to 75 per cent in the airline and initial expressions of interest were submitted last week.

Amid these reports, former Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal has opted out from bidding for stake acquisition in the ailing airline.

News agency Reuters reported that Jet Airways management has proposed to suspend all operations of the debt-laden airline at the board meeting today.

On Monday, the airline in a letter to its employees had said it planned to extend its suspension of international flights until Thursday as it had not received any interim funding from lenders.

The airline, which over and above its bank borrowings owes money to its lessors, staff and others, has been struggling for weeks after failing to receive a stop-gap loan of about $217 million from its lenders as part of a rescue deal agreed in late March.

The airways is currently reeling under $1.2 billion in debt with its air operations at a near-standstill.

Meanwhile, Aviation regulator DGCA said it would continue to monitor airfare movements on a daily basis and also engage with other airlines for appropriate action in the wake of Jet Airways curtailing operations which has severely impacted flights on a number of routes.

Earlier in the day, civil aviation minister Suresh Prabhu had called for a review of issues related to struggling Jet Airways which including rising fares and flight cancellations.

"Airlines representative intimated DGCA that they have removed the few higher buckets from sale and offering tickets to passengers in lower fare buckets," the aviation regulator said.

Civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola said today that Jet Airways has sought emergency funds from banks. The minister informed that the cash-strapped airlines has been operating just five planes.

Civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola said today that Jet Airways has sought emergency funds from banks. The minister informed that the cash-strapped airlines has been operating just five planes. The airline had more than 120 aircraft operating a year ago. Jet Airways said it is awaiting "emergency liquidity support" from the SBI-led consortium of lenders to arrest further deterioration in its services. Kharola said the airlines has sought Rs 400 crores emergency funds from banks. "The company's leadership, in consultation with its board of directors, is engaged with lenders in connection with the said emergency funding request... The company is also in constant engagement with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Civil Aviation in this regard," it said in a filing to the BSE. The filing was made in response to a clarification sought by the exchange regarding reports that the airline was likely to temporarily shut down its operations. On Monday, Jet Airways shares tanked eight per cent amid reports of a shutdown. The scrip tumbled 7.62 per cent to close at Rs 241.85 on the BSE. During the day, it had plummeted 18.56 per cent to Rs 213.20. Reports said Jet's lenders have been attempting to bring in a new investor to buy a stake of up to 75 per cent in the airline and initial expressions of interest were submitted last week. Amid these reports, former Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal has opted out from bidding for stake acquisition in the ailing airline. News agency Reuters reported that Jet Airways management has proposed to suspend all operations of the debt-laden airline at the board meeting today. On Monday, the airline in a letter to its employees had said it planned to extend its suspension of international flights until Thursday as it had not received any interim funding from lenders. The airline, which over and above its bank borrowings owes money to its lessors, staff and others, has been struggling for weeks after failing to receive a stop-gap loan of about $217 million from its lenders as part of a rescue deal agreed in late March. The airways is currently reeling under $1.2 billion in debt with its air operations at a near-standstill. Meanwhile, Aviation regulator DGCA said it would continue to monitor airfare movements on a daily basis and also engage with other airlines for appropriate action in the wake of Jet Airways curtailing operations which has severely impacted flights on a number of routes. Earlier in the day, civil aviation minister Suresh Prabhu had called for a review of issues related to struggling Jet Airways which including rising fares and flight cancellations. "Airlines representative intimated DGCA that they have removed the few higher buckets from sale and offering tickets to passengers in lower fare buckets," the aviation regulator said.

Jet Airways has sought Rs 400 crore emergency funds from banks, operation five planes currently: Civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/notre-dame-fire-under-control-partially-extinguished-210772">Notre Dame fire 'under control, partially extinguished': Firefighters</a>

A massive fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral is "under control", Paris fire brigade confirmed on Tuesday.

A huge fire consumed Notre-Dame Cathedral on Monday, gutting the roof of the Paris landmark and stunning France and the world, but firefighters managed to save the shell of the stone structure and its two main bell towers from collapse.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-says-hit-by-40-million-cyber-attacks-since-julian-assange-arrest-210761">Ecuador says hit by 40 million cyber attacks since Julian Assange arrest</a>

Ecuador said on Monday it has suffered 40 million cyber attacks on the webpages of public institutions since stripping Wikileaks founder Julian Assange of political asylum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/socialist-bernie-sanders-tax-returns-show-millionaire-status-210762">Socialist Bernie Sanders' tax returns show millionaire status</a>

Self-described Democratic socialist Bernie Sanders, the 2020 presidential candidate who has long assailed America's growing income inequality, released 10 years of tax returns Monday that confirm his newfound status as a millionaire.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-measles-cases-up-300-percent-year-on-year-who-210766">Global measles cases up 300 percent year-on-year: WHO</a>

Measles cases rose 300 per cent worldwide through the first three months of 2019 compared to the same period last year, the UN said Monday, as concern grows over the impact of anti-vaccination stigma.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/game-of-thrones-record-174-million-tune-in-to-watch-the-first-episode-of-the-final-season-210768">Game Of Thrones: Record 17.4 million tune in to watch the first episode of the final season</a>

Some 17.4 million Americans watched the first episode of the final season of television`s 'Game of Thrones' - a record audience for the medieval fantasy series, cable channel HBO said on Monday.

&nbsp;

Notre Dame fire 'under control, partially extinguished': Firefighters A massive fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral is "under control", Paris fire brigade confirmed on Tuesday.

Notre Dame fire 'under control, partially extinguished': Firefighters A massive fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral is "under control", Paris fire brigade confirmed on Tuesday. A huge fire consumed Notre-Dame Cathedral on Monday, gutting the roof of the Paris landmark and stunning France and the world, but firefighters managed to save the shell of the stone structure and its two main bell towers from collapse. Ecuador says hit by 40 million cyber attacks since Julian Assange arrest Ecuador said on Monday it has suffered 40 million cyber attacks on the webpages of public institutions since stripping Wikileaks founder Julian Assange of political asylum. Socialist Bernie Sanders' tax returns show millionaire status Self-described Democratic socialist Bernie Sanders, the 2020 presidential candidate who has long assailed America's growing income inequality, released 10 years of tax returns Monday that confirm his newfound status as a millionaire. Global measles cases up 300 percent year-on-year: WHO Measles cases rose 300 per cent worldwide through the first three months of 2019 compared to the same period last year, the UN said Monday, as concern grows over the impact of anti-vaccination stigma. Game Of Thrones: Record 17.4 million tune in to watch the first episode of the final season Some 17.4 million Americans watched the first episode of the final season of television`s 'Game of Thrones' - a record audience for the medieval fantasy series, cable channel HBO said on Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday cancelled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-seeks-report-on-bangladeshi-actor-ferdous-ahmed-campaigning-for-trinamool-congress-in-west-bengal-210909">Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed</a>'s business visa and issued him a 'leave India' notice. Ahmed has also been blacklisted.

"After receiving a report from the Bureau of Immigration regarding visa violations committed by a Bangladesh National Mr Ferdous Ahmed," the MHA statement noted.&nbsp;

The ministry, earlier in the day, had asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed's campaign for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal.&nbsp;

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MHA: After receiving report from Bureau of Immigration regarding visa violations committed by a Bangladesh National Mr Ferdous Ahmed(actor who campaigned for TMC), MHA has cancelled his business visa and issued him a leave India notice. He also has been blacklisted. <a href="https://t.co/3lbqJEboEg">pic.twitter.com/3lbqJEboEg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1118154504015241217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 45-year-old Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for Agarwal at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border.

The FRRO is responsible for providing visa services in the area under its jurisdiction.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday took notice of the incident and had raised the issue of Model Code of Conduct violation.&nbsp;

The BJP moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday cancelled Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed's business visa and issued him a 'leave India' notice. Ahmed has also been blacklisted.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday cancelled Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed's business visa and issued him a 'leave India' notice. Ahmed has also been blacklisted. "After receiving a report from the Bureau of Immigration regarding visa violations committed by a Bangladesh National Mr Ferdous Ahmed," the MHA statement noted. The ministry, earlier in the day, had asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed's campaign for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. MHA: After receiving report from Bureau of Immigration regarding visa violations committed by a Bangladesh National Mr Ferdous Ahmed(actor who campaigned for TMC), MHA has cancelled his business visa and issued him a leave India notice. He also has been blacklisted. pic.twitter.com/3lbqJEboEg — ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2019 × The 45-year-old Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for Agarwal at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border. The FRRO is responsible for providing visa services in the area under its jurisdiction. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday took notice of the incident and had raised the issue of Model Code of Conduct violation. The BJP moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed.

Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed, who campaigned for Trinamool Congress, blacklisted for visa violations

The foundation stone-laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi being built in Abu Dhabi, UAE will take place on April 20.&nbsp;

The foreign minister of UAE, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of tolerance, Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan and Indian envoy to UAE Navdeep Suri will be present on the occasion.&nbsp;

Mahant Swami Maharaj, the sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, will also preside over the foundation stone laying ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony of a temple being constructed in Abu Dhabi through live feed and unveiled a replica of the temple complex in Dubai in February last year during his visit to the country.

Speaking at the ceremony back then the PM said, “The first traditional temple in Abu Dhabi will act as a catalyst for the flourishment of humanitarian values and harmony between the two countries. The temple will become a medium for India’s identity.”

The UAE government in 2015 had decided to allot a plot of land near Abu Dhabi for the construction of a temple during PM Modi's first visit to the west Asian country.

Later in 2017, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan gifted a 13.7-acre plot of land at Abu Mureikheh, mid-way between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to enable the building of the temple. Additional 13 acres was given for parking.

The Indian community is financing the project and RSP, a Singapore-based architectural practice, is the lead consultant and designer for the BAPS Hindu Mandir. The construction is expected to be completed by 2020.

The construction of the temple comes even as UAE is becoming an international hub for many industries like aviation and media. among others. The crown prince is focusing on a "vision of tolerance and religious harmony". UAE itself is marking 2019 as the year of tolerance.

The UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits. PM Modi first visited the country in August 2015 which was followed by the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016.

The following year, the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade. Again in 2018, PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. UAE is one the very few countries where PM Modi has visited twice. PM, a few weeks ago, was honoured with the highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal- of the country.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, in a first, UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the organisation of Islamic cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan.

More than 3 million Indians have made UAE their home and there are approximately 1,000 direct flights per week between various destinations of India and the UAE.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi being built in Abu Dhabi, UAE will take place on April 20.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi being built in Abu Dhabi, UAE will take place on April 20. The foreign minister of UAE, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of tolerance, Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan and Indian envoy to UAE Navdeep Suri will be present on the occasion. Mahant Swami Maharaj, the sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, will also preside over the foundation stone laying ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony of a temple being constructed in Abu Dhabi through live feed and unveiled a replica of the temple complex in Dubai in February last year during his visit to the country. Speaking at the ceremony back then the PM said, “The first traditional temple in Abu Dhabi will act as a catalyst for the flourishment of humanitarian values and harmony between the two countries. The temple will become a medium for India’s identity.” The UAE government in 2015 had decided to allot a plot of land near Abu Dhabi for the construction of a temple during PM Modi's first visit to the west Asian country. Later in 2017, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan gifted a 13.7-acre plot of land at Abu Mureikheh, mid-way between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to enable the building of the temple. Additional 13 acres was given for parking. The Indian community is financing the project and RSP, a Singapore-based architectural practice, is the lead consultant and designer for the BAPS Hindu Mandir. The construction is expected to be completed by 2020. The construction of the temple comes even as UAE is becoming an international hub for many industries like aviation and media. among others. The crown prince is focusing on a "vision of tolerance and religious harmony". UAE itself is marking 2019 as the year of tolerance. The UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits. PM Modi first visited the country in August 2015 which was followed by the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year, the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade. Again in 2018, PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. UAE is one the very few countries where PM Modi has visited twice. PM, a few weeks ago, was honoured with the highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal- of the country. Earlier this year, in a first, UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the organisation of Islamic cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan. More than 3 million Indians have made UAE their home and there are approximately 1,000 direct flights per week between various destinations of India and the UAE.

Foundation stone of first Hindu temple in UAE to be laid on April 20

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