Blasts heard in Sanaa as Saudi-led coalition warns civilians to evacuate; Houthis vow retaliation

China's counter-surveillance industry booms amid heightened espionage fears | Gravitas

Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco

Navratri 2026: 9 days, 9 forms of Goddess Durga and 9 colours- Check the complete list

Trump accuses Houthis of driving up oil prices before US midterms, warns of consequences

New Delhi rejects Beijing’s claims and remarks on Ladakh location naming exercise

US Midterms 2026: In Alaska, cost-of-living anxiety meets strangest ballot in high-stakes Senate race

CMs Vijay-Naidu meet in Vijayawada, discuss water sharing, river-linking

'Don't ever mess with nature!': Trump’s tiger attack post triggers social media backlash as victim's family issues heartbreaking tribute

OpenAI employee arrested by FBI after allegedly hiding recording device in office

Man dies at Six Flags Georgia: Past accidents at Six Flags amusement parks across US

1,500 drones illuminate Mumbai sky as Cordelia Cruises unveils second ship, Cordelia Sky

Pope Leo XIV diagnosed with lung cancer after surgery, Vatican says 'successful surgery and recovering'

Pakistan to chair UN-backed global Borrowers’ Platform as its own debt burden mounts, triggers sarcastic reactions on social media

Suicidal man survives jump from 11th floor in Japan, could now be tried for murder

Robot gropes girl, makes thrusting movements in bizarre crime in Germany

France accuses Musk of ‘online harassment’ of European leaders, warns of poll interference

MI5 chief warns Russia is UK’s ‘aggressor number one’ as Iran and AI threats grow

'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Inside the alleged drug-money trail behind a Mumbai couple’s properties

‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes

IMF World Economic Outlook: 10 economies to watch for growth in FY27 and FY28 - Where does India stand?

Marco Rubio to visit India next week, focus on energy cooperation and strategic ties

Is the AI chip boom already over? Global semiconductor stocks slide as investors question unbridled spending

L Murugan resigns as Union Minister, expresses wish to return to grassroots

'Ouch!!! That must hurt': Kangana Ranaut hails Kamal Haasan's sharp reply to Elon Musk over Starlink row

Girl 'dead' for 8 hours wakes up at her own funeral, dad insists she wasn't breathing

Sidhu Moose Wala’s younger brother wins hearts by recreating late singer’s signature move at Toronto Hologram Show

UK school ditches technology, shifts from screen to pen and paper for learning

New OTT releases this week (October 12-18, 2026): Sacrifice, Koffee with Karan S9, Roadies Rebirth- 6 titles coming on Netflix, JioHotstar and more

Rahul Gandhi speaks on Anti-CeC protests: Gathering over tea after Supreme Court rally

Anupam Kher joins Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana as Jatayu, new poster unveiled

Measles kills again: 6 dead in Pennsylvania as America faces its worst outbreak in decades | Gravitas

Ken Paxton's Dubai night out with two US fugitives sparks political storm as Texas Senate race tightens

Mundhe: Fight against unsafe food goes on

Cornell University suspends fraternity parties over 2024 gang rape allegations

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls".

“People are enthusiastic about Priyanka Gandhi. The day she enters electoral politics, people will welcome her. She will win from wherever she contests the poll, "he said.

Speaking on Priyanka Gandhi's husband's entry into politics, he said&nbsp;the Congress would never refuse to include Robert Vadra in the party as he is also part of the family.

Babbar said the party will happily bring her husband and businessman Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar on Robert Vadra: Agar wo chahenge to party unke baare mein, zaroor chahegi ki wo parivaar ka hisaa hain, party mein sammilit karne ke liye kaun mana karega unko? <a href="https://t.co/1dmuw9MLzs">pic.twitter.com/1dmuw9MLzs</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1117343446505787392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Lok Sabha elections are being held from April 11 and will go on till May 19 in seven phases.&nbsp;

The polls in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls".

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls". “People are enthusiastic about Priyanka Gandhi. The day she enters electoral politics, people will welcome her. She will win from wherever she contests the poll, "he said. Speaking on Priyanka Gandhi's husband's entry into politics, he said the Congress would never refuse to include Robert Vadra in the party as he is also part of the family. Babbar said the party will happily bring her husband and businessman Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes. Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar on Robert Vadra: Agar wo chahenge to party unke baare mein, zaroor chahegi ki wo parivaar ka hisaa hain, party mein sammilit karne ke liye kaun mana karega unko? pic.twitter.com/1dmuw9MLzs — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 14, 2019 × Lok Sabha elections are being held from April 11 and will go on till May 19 in seven phases. The polls in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress will happily bring Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes: Raj Babbar

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

"Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh.

"Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said.

SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats.

Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018.&nbsp;

"Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said.&nbsp;

Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate.

The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months.

"The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji.&nbsp;

Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared. "Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh. "Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said. SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats. Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018. "Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said. Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate. The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months. "The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji. Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Mayawati will break alliance with Akhilesh after Lok Sabha poll results: Naresh Agarwal

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017.

According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case. His arrest comes close on the heels of disclosures made by Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Syed Hilal Andrabi, who were arrested earlier.

Reshi, a resident of Pulwama, will be produced before the special NIA Court in Srinagar on Monday.

Police said Reshi was an active over ground worker (OGW) of the proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). He was a close associate of slain terrorist and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray, said police.

"The attack on CRPF Group Centre was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017," police said.

The accused Reshi was a key a conspirator, who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering and transport to the terrorists, who carried out the audacious terror attack.

In 2017, the attack was carried out by three terrorists belonging to JeM. In this attack, five CRPF personnel were killed, while three others were grievously injured.

Three terrorists--involved in the attack--Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba and Abdul Shakoor were also eliminated during the encounter.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017. According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017. According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case. His arrest comes close on the heels of disclosures made by Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Syed Hilal Andrabi, who were arrested earlier. Reshi, a resident of Pulwama, will be produced before the special NIA Court in Srinagar on Monday. Police said Reshi was an active over ground worker (OGW) of the proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). He was a close associate of slain terrorist and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray, said police. "The attack on CRPF Group Centre was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017," police said. The accused Reshi was a key a conspirator, who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering and transport to the terrorists, who carried out the audacious terror attack. In 2017, the attack was carried out by three terrorists belonging to JeM. In this attack, five CRPF personnel were killed, while three others were grievously injured. Three terrorists--involved in the attack--Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba and Abdul Shakoor were also eliminated during the encounter.

NIA arrests 5th accused in CRPF group centre attack

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress.&nbsp;

"Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted.&nbsp;

The Delhi CM also alleged that every political party other than Modi-led BJP is pressing for verification of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-to-approach-supreme-court-again-to-demand-verification-of-50-votes-by-paper-trails-210298">50 per cent of the votes through paper trails</a>, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"If BJP does not want Voter Verifies Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to be counted, then why did they spend 9,000 crores on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)? They do not want VVPAT to be counted since they are benefiting from the laxity," CM Kejriwal told media persons on Sunday.

The Delhi chief minister also alleged that the Election Commission (EC) only listens to concerns of the BJP.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on if discussions on Congress-AAP alliance are still underway: The country is in danger. To save the country from Modi Ji &amp; Amit Shah Ji's 'jodi', we are ready to do whatever is needed. Our efforts will continue till the end. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/ryvtACTrQj">pic.twitter.com/ryvtACTrQj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117369598674972674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Just a day ago, Andhra CM and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system.&nbsp;

Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy."

The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI on Saturday over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress. "Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted. The Delhi CM also alleged that every political party other than Modi-led BJP is pressing for verification of 50 per cent of the votes through paper trails, news agency ANI reported. "If BJP does not want Voter Verifies Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to be counted, then why did they spend 9,000 crores on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)? They do not want VVPAT to be counted since they are benefiting from the laxity," CM Kejriwal told media persons on Sunday. The Delhi chief minister also alleged that the Election Commission (EC) only listens to concerns of the BJP. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on if discussions on Congress-AAP alliance are still underway: The country is in danger. To save the country from Modi Ji & Amit Shah Ji's 'jodi', we are ready to do whatever is needed. Our efforts will continue till the end. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/ryvtACTrQj — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2019 × Just a day ago, Andhra CM and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system. Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy." The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI on Saturday over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Will do whatever is needed to save country from Modi, Amit Shah: Arvind Kejriwal on alliance with Congress

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.

Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi.

Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will take place on May 23. 
&nbsp;

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi. Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister joins Congress

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/no-direction-passed-on-whether-pilots-will-fly-from-midnight-due-to-non-payment-of-salaries-jet-airways-210338">No direction passed on whether pilots will fly from midnight due to non-payment of salaries: Jet Airways</a>

Jet Airways on Sunday issued a statement noting that Jet Airways' pilots body National Aviator's Guild (NAG) will be holding a meeting tomorrow "as no collective decision has been taken yet," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-unprecedented-dangerous-move-will-have-consequences-iran-slams-us-step-against-revolutionary-guards-urges-countries-to-take-position-210284">This unprecedented, dangerous move will have consequences: Iran slams US step against Revolutionary Guards, urges countries to take position</a>

Iran will ask the international community to take a position on the US designation of its Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was cited as saying on Sunday.

Iran condemned US President Donald Trump’s step last week as illegal. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is a powerful elite force which controls much of the Iranian state and economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canada-removes-reference-to-sikh-extremism-from-its-report-on-terrorist-threats-210309">Canada removes reference to 'Sikh extremism’ from its report on terrorist threats</a>

The Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might have given in to the domestic political pressure from the Sikh community as the government is reported to have removed eight references to Sikh extremism and six references to Khalistan in its 2018 public report on terrorist threats to the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-who-went-to-pakistan-for-love-lands-up-in-captivity-210331">Indian woman who went to Pakistan for love lands up in captivity</a>

After Hamid Nehal and Uzma Ahmed, reports emerge of another Indian who fell in love and went to Pakistan but is now in captivity. Tina from Chandigarh had arrived in Pakistan last year on October 24 and allegedly converted to Islam to marry a Pakistani national.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-instagram-whatsapp-hit-by-outages-downdetector-210332">Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp hit by outages; users fume on Twitter</a>

Facebook social networking site, photo-sharing social network Instagram and messaging app WhatsApp were inaccessible to some users on Sunday.

As per the website Downdetector, which monitor global outages, there were more than 12,000 incidents of people reporting issues with Facebook at its peak, but that figure dropped to about 2,000 reports.

No direction passed on whether pilots will fly from midnight due to non-payment of salaries: Jet Airways Jet Airways on Sunday issued a statement noting that Jet Airways' pilots body National Aviator's Guild (NAG) will be holding a meeting tomorrow "as no collective decision has been taken yet," news agency ANI reported.

No direction passed on whether pilots will fly from midnight due to non-payment of salaries: Jet Airways Jet Airways on Sunday issued a statement noting that Jet Airways' pilots body National Aviator's Guild (NAG) will be holding a meeting tomorrow "as no collective decision has been taken yet," news agency ANI reported. This unprecedented, dangerous move will have consequences: Iran slams US step against Revolutionary Guards, urges countries to take position Iran will ask the international community to take a position on the US designation of its Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was cited as saying on Sunday. Iran condemned US President Donald Trump’s step last week as illegal. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is a powerful elite force which controls much of the Iranian state and economy. Canada removes reference to 'Sikh extremism’ from its report on terrorist threats The Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might have given in to the domestic political pressure from the Sikh community as the government is reported to have removed eight references to Sikh extremism and six references to Khalistan in its 2018 public report on terrorist threats to the country. Indian woman who went to Pakistan for love lands up in captivity After Hamid Nehal and Uzma Ahmed, reports emerge of another Indian who fell in love and went to Pakistan but is now in captivity. Tina from Chandigarh had arrived in Pakistan last year on October 24 and allegedly converted to Islam to marry a Pakistani national. Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp hit by outages; users fume on Twitter Facebook social networking site, photo-sharing social network Instagram and messaging app WhatsApp were inaccessible to some users on Sunday. As per the website Downdetector, which monitor global outages, there were more than 12,000 incidents of people reporting issues with Facebook at its peak, but that figure dropped to about 2,000 reports.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’

“Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event.

“As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman.

The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks.

“Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.”

“No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said.

“That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman.

Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

“The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said.

Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots.

“Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.”

“His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said.

Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport.

“Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.”

Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country.

“Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.&nbsp;

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’ “Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event. “As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks. “Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.” “No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said. “That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman. Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. “The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said. Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots. “Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.” “His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said. Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport. “Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.” Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country. “Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.

Political will was lacking to retaliate 2008 Mumbai terror attack: Nirmala Sitharaman

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls.

The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-to-approach-supreme-court-again-to-demand-verification-of-50-votes-by-paper-trails-210298">so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi</a> is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said.

Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail.

The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said.

The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said.

The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra.

Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family".

"Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged.

Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004.

Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP.

"Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said.

He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes.

"People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said.

Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress."

Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said.

Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.&nbsp;

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said. "The so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said. Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail. The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said. The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said. The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra. Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family". "Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged. Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004. Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP. "Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said. He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes. "People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said. Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress." Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said. Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.

Party meeting is confession of defeat by so-called Mahagathbandhan: BJP

Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb was the man behind India's constitution and the undisputed leader of India's Dalits.

He was born on April 14, 1891, in town and military cantonment of Mhow in the central provinces (now in Madhya Pradesh) into a Mahar family, a caste considered untouchable.

He was last of his parents' 14 children.

Born in a Dalit family, Ambedkar himself was a victim of the social evils since childhood days.&nbsp;

He was so oppressed that throughout his life, he campaigned to eliminate social discrimination against untouchables.

He drafted the Indian constitution, championed Dalit and women's rights, and remains a beacon for marginalised groups in Indian society. Today, he would have been 128 years old.

He was the first Minister of Law and Justice in 1947, but he resigned when his women rights bill was opposed by the Parliament.

Ambedkar was a diabetes patient and died in his sleep at the age of 65 on December 6, 1956, &nbsp;three days after he completed his manuscript— The Buddha and his Dhamma.

Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb was the man behind India's constitution and the undisputed leader of India's Dalits. He was born on April 14, 1891, in town and military cantonment of Mhow in the central provinces (now in Madhya Pradesh) into a Mahar family, a caste considered untouchable.

Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb was the man behind India's constitution and the undisputed leader of India's Dalits. He was born on April 14, 1891, in town and military cantonment of Mhow in the central provinces (now in Madhya Pradesh) into a Mahar family, a caste considered untouchable. He was last of his parents' 14 children. Born in a Dalit family, Ambedkar himself was a victim of the social evils since childhood days. He was so oppressed that throughout his life, he campaigned to eliminate social discrimination against untouchables. He drafted the Indian constitution, championed Dalit and women's rights, and remains a beacon for marginalised groups in Indian society. Today, he would have been 128 years old. He was the first Minister of Law and Justice in 1947, but he resigned when his women rights bill was opposed by the Parliament. Ambedkar was a diabetes patient and died in his sleep at the age of 65 on December 6, 1956, three days after he completed his manuscript— The Buddha and his Dhamma.

Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar: The leader of India's oppressed

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi.

"It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution.

"Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East.

Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution.

Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years.

"He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged.

Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi.

"If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.&nbsp;

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it. Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi. "It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution. "Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East. Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution. Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years. "He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged. Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi. "If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.

Attempt being made to destroy the Constitution: Priyanka Gandhi

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar - father of Indian Constitution: Celebrating his 128th birth anniversary

The Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might have given in to the domestic political pressure from the Sikh community as the government is reported to have removed eight references to Sikh extremism and six references to Khalistan in its 2018 public report on terrorist threats to the country.

'Khalistan' is a Sikh separatist movement that seeks an independent state called Khalistān in the Punjab, India.

The updated version was released about 24 hours before the Canadian prime minister's visit to a Vaisakhi parade in Vancouver.

This development comes amid reports of the ruling liberal party being threatened of serious outcomes by pressure groups in the local Sikh community.

Now, the Sikh and Khalistani extremism had figured for the first time in the 2018 terrorism report.

The original report said Canada continues to face threats from, “individuals inspired to commit violence based on other forms of extremism, including from... Sikh Khalistani extremists”.

But the updated report notes that while “outlining a threat, it must be clearly linked to an ideology rather than a community”.

Canada heads to the polls this October. The incumbent government would certainly want to keep the influential local Sikh community by its side.&nbsp;

India, on the other hand, has called this move a 'full retreat' by Ottawa.&nbsp;

Sikh and Khalistani extremism figured in a counter-terrorism bilateral between India and Canada in Ottawa last month. The two sides discussed the threat from Khalistani extremism for the first time during the meet. 
&nbsp;

The Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might have given in to the domestic political pressure from the Sikh community as the government is reported to have removed eight references to Sikh extremism and six references to Khalistan in its 2018 public report on terrorist threats to the country.

The Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might have given in to the domestic political pressure from the Sikh community as the government is reported to have removed eight references to Sikh extremism and six references to Khalistan in its 2018 public report on terrorist threats to the country. 'Khalistan' is a Sikh separatist movement that seeks an independent state called Khalistān in the Punjab, India. The updated version was released about 24 hours before the Canadian prime minister's visit to a Vaisakhi parade in Vancouver. This development comes amid reports of the ruling liberal party being threatened of serious outcomes by pressure groups in the local Sikh community. Now, the Sikh and Khalistani extremism had figured for the first time in the 2018 terrorism report. The original report said Canada continues to face threats from, “individuals inspired to commit violence based on other forms of extremism, including from... Sikh Khalistani extremists”. But the updated report notes that while “outlining a threat, it must be clearly linked to an ideology rather than a community”. Canada heads to the polls this October. The incumbent government would certainly want to keep the influential local Sikh community by its side. India, on the other hand, has called this move a 'full retreat' by Ottawa. Sikh and Khalistani extremism figured in a counter-terrorism bilateral between India and Canada in Ottawa last month. The two sides discussed the threat from Khalistani extremism for the first time during the meet.

Canada removes reference to 'Sikh extremism’ from its report on terrorist threats

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-a-couple-of-days-after-polls-chandrababu-naidu-raises-questions-over-evms-asks-election-commission-to-revert-to-ballot-system-210068"> EVM malfunctioning</a>.

The parties said they would approach&nbsp;the Supreme Court&nbsp;over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand&nbsp;at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs.

"EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said.

Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment.

He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs.

"We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate.&nbsp;

Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, &nbsp;there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs. Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs. "EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment. He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs. "We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged. The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate. Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition parties to approach Supreme Court again to demand verification of 50% votes by paper trails

Union <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-make-sedition-law-even-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-209977">Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj&nbsp;Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi".&nbsp;

Singh, while addressing a gathering in Nagina, Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, said that "it could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP".

"They came together knowing that they all will be swept away in the Modi wave," Singh added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
HM Rajnath Singh in Nagina, Bijnor: SP-BSP have formed an alliance to stop Narendra Modi ji. It could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP. They knew 'Modi ki aandhi mein hum (SP and BSP) akele tinke ki tarah beh jaenge', so they came together. <a href="https://t.co/Lez0oGQX5D">pic.twitter.com/Lez0oGQX5D</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1117348364247543808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Home Minister on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi".

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi". Singh, while addressing a gathering in Nagina, Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, said that "it could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP". "They came together knowing that they all will be swept away in the Modi wave," Singh added. HM Rajnath Singh in Nagina, Bijnor: SP-BSP have formed an alliance to stop Narendra Modi ji. It could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP. They knew 'Modi ki aandhi mein hum (SP and BSP) akele tinke ki tarah beh jaenge', so they came together. pic.twitter.com/Lez0oGQX5D — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 14, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Home Minister on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term. Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

They came together knowing that they'll be swept away in Modi wave: Rajnath Singh on SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction.&nbsp;

Addressing an election rally&nbsp;in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said Congress policies were behind the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from Valley.&nbsp;

''Congress might avoid taking their name but this chowkidar is committed to letting Kashmiri Pandits live on their land. We're also making efforts to form a law to provide citizenship to families which have come here helplessly from Pakistan,'' Modi said.

By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, you have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders, opportunists, he added.

Modi also accused Abdullah and Mufti family of destroying the lives of three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and said they can not divide the country.

''Two families have ruined three generations of Jammu and Kashmir. For better future of the state, they need to be voted out,'' he said.&nbsp;

Modi also attacked Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh for his ''devotion to Gandhi family''.

''I can understand the kind of pressure which must have been put on him for such parivar bhakti','' Modi said.

Accusing the Congress of politicising Jallianwala Bagh centenary event, Modi said vice president was in Jallianwala Bagh for the event but Congress chief minister from the state was not present.&nbsp;

Modi also said ''Congress never trusted the valour of Indian armed forces'' &nbsp;and accused it of ''doubting IAF strikes in Balakot''.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction. Addressing an election rally in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said Congress policies were behind the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from Valley. ''Congress might avoid taking their name but this chowkidar is committed to letting Kashmiri Pandits live on their land. We're also making efforts to form a law to provide citizenship to families which have come here helplessly from Pakistan,'' Modi said. By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, you have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders, opportunists, he added. Modi also accused Abdullah and Mufti family of destroying the lives of three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and said they can not divide the country. ''Two families have ruined three generations of Jammu and Kashmir. For better future of the state, they need to be voted out,'' he said. Modi also attacked Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh for his ''devotion to Gandhi family''. ''I can understand the kind of pressure which must have been put on him for such parivar bhakti','' Modi said. Accusing the Congress of politicising Jallianwala Bagh centenary event, Modi said vice president was in Jallianwala Bagh for the event but Congress chief minister from the state was not present. Modi also said ''Congress never trusted the valour of Indian armed forces'' and accused it of ''doubting IAF strikes in Balakot''.

Committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places: PM Modi 

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement.

Alok Chakraborty, Central Committee President, INTUC (National Union of Plantation Workers) said, " Tea garden workers especially those who stay in remote areas are completely unaware of paid leaves concept and the tea companies for their own benefits do not even bother to inform them of this existing notice."

A tea estate worker from North Bengal said, "I know that voting is my right and I go to the polling booth to cast my vote however my company declares it as an off day and we lose a day's pay."

With tea export business witnessing a boom, the present scenario of tea market is pleasant but the condition of tea garden workers remains poor.

A study shows that with the increasing demand for Indian tea in the international market, especially Assam and Darjeeling tea is doing a fair amount of business. However, because of poor coordination between state and central government, the labourers are unable to reap the benefits.

"Equation between the Central and State government is not well, and as an obvious consequence, the tea garden workers pay the price," Chakraborty said.

As per the latest direction by the state government, the daily wage of a tea worker should be Rs 176. They are also liable to receive provident fund and gratuity.

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement.

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement. Alok Chakraborty, Central Committee President, INTUC (National Union of Plantation Workers) said, " Tea garden workers especially those who stay in remote areas are completely unaware of paid leaves concept and the tea companies for their own benefits do not even bother to inform them of this existing notice." A tea estate worker from North Bengal said, "I know that voting is my right and I go to the polling booth to cast my vote however my company declares it as an off day and we lose a day's pay." With tea export business witnessing a boom, the present scenario of tea market is pleasant but the condition of tea garden workers remains poor. A study shows that with the increasing demand for Indian tea in the international market, especially Assam and Darjeeling tea is doing a fair amount of business. However, because of poor coordination between state and central government, the labourers are unable to reap the benefits. "Equation between the Central and State government is not well, and as an obvious consequence, the tea garden workers pay the price," Chakraborty said. As per the latest direction by the state government, the daily wage of a tea worker should be Rs 176. They are also liable to receive provident fund and gratuity.

West Bengal: Unaware of 'paid leave' concept on polling day, tea garden workers lose day's pay 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India.

The prime minister was referring to NC leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir.

He also targeted the Congress for the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley and said his government was committed to settling the displaced community in their native places and that work has started in this direction.

The Prime Minister also hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh for skipping Saturday's event to pay respects to martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

On doubts raised by some opposition leaders on the Balakot air strikes, Modi said Congress has never trusted valour of Indian armed forces.

He said the wave in favour of the BJP was stronger this time than in 2014.

According to opinion polls and surveys, the BJP will get thrice the seats that Congress will win, he said.

By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, voters have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders and opportunists, he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India. The prime minister was referring to NC leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir. He also targeted the Congress for the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley and said his government was committed to settling the displaced community in their native places and that work has started in this direction. The Prime Minister also hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh for skipping Saturday's event to pay respects to martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. On doubts raised by some opposition leaders on the Balakot air strikes, Modi said Congress has never trusted valour of Indian armed forces. He said the wave in favour of the BJP was stronger this time than in 2014. According to opinion polls and surveys, the BJP will get thrice the seats that Congress will win, he said. By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, voters have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders and opportunists, he added.

Will not allow Abdullahs, Muftis to divide India: PM Modi in Kathua

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act.&nbsp;

RTI activist Ajay Dubey had sought details related to search operations conducted by the Income Tax department from the Lokayukta. He had also sought details of corruption cases registered by it since July 2017 among other information.

In its reply, the Lokayukta said the information sought is in "question-answer" format. Therefore, it cannot be given. It also cited Section 2 (F) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act and said the desired details do not constitute information mentioned in the transparency law.

The information thus cannot be constructed and cannot be given, the Lokayukta said. The section describes "information" as any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advice, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force.

To a query on sharing details on information given by the Income Tax department related to the search operations conducted against corrupt government employees, it said the information cannot be made public as its investigating arm - Special Police Establishment (SPE) - was exempt under the transparency law from disclosing such details.

"The Income Tax department shares details of search operations conducted against corrupt government employees with the Lokayukta of the state concerned so that it can also act against them. The Lokayukta has adopted an anti-transparency attitude by blocking access to the information sought," Mr Dubey said.

The Income Tax department recently carried out raids at over 50 locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions.

Searches have detected widespread and well-organized racket of a collection of unaccounted cash of about Rs. 281 crore through various persons in different walks of life including business, politics and public service, a press release issued by the Income Tax department in Delhi on April 8 had said.

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act.

The Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta has refused to share details on search operations conducted by the Income Tax department against corrupt public servants of the state government citing an exemption clause under the RTI Act. RTI activist Ajay Dubey had sought details related to search operations conducted by the Income Tax department from the Lokayukta. He had also sought details of corruption cases registered by it since July 2017 among other information. In its reply, the Lokayukta said the information sought is in "question-answer" format. Therefore, it cannot be given. It also cited Section 2 (F) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act and said the desired details do not constitute information mentioned in the transparency law. The information thus cannot be constructed and cannot be given, the Lokayukta said. The section describes "information" as any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advice, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force. To a query on sharing details on information given by the Income Tax department related to the search operations conducted against corrupt government employees, it said the information cannot be made public as its investigating arm - Special Police Establishment (SPE) - was exempt under the transparency law from disclosing such details. "The Income Tax department shares details of search operations conducted against corrupt government employees with the Lokayukta of the state concerned so that it can also act against them. The Lokayukta has adopted an anti-transparency attitude by blocking access to the information sought," Mr Dubey said. The Income Tax department recently carried out raids at over 50 locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions. Searches have detected widespread and well-organized racket of a collection of unaccounted cash of about Rs. 281 crore through various persons in different walks of life including business, politics and public service, a press release issued by the Income Tax department in Delhi on April 8 had said.

Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta refuses to share details on I-T searches against corrupt public servants

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiNufiBh8_hAhWLu48KHT62C-EQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PAZdKqGSXKz6VfZlj_u_L">Triple Talaq Bill</a> has been a major poll plank of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaitley-criticises-cong-for-promising-to-withdraw-triple-talaq-bill-196044&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjW9eebh8_hAhUI448KHaCQBCIQFggRMAQ&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0C8jSa6Y1ZqyiQKByZPJFk">BJP</a>, with the party trying its best to woo a section of minorities with the legislation, even as those who had led the crusade against the practice continue to fight for their survival.

In its recently released manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, the saffron party, which failed to legislate the bill in Parliament due to stiff resistance by the opposition, has pledged to eliminate the practices of instant talaq and nikah halala if re-elected to power.

Vijaya Rahatkar, the national president of the party's Mahila Morcha, said the efforts of the Narendra Modi government to pass the Triple Talaq Bill "will surely yield positive results for the BJP" in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Ironically, anti-triple talaq champions - Ishrat Jahan, Shayara Bano and Atiya Sabri - who had moved the Supreme Court to seek an end to the practice of instant divorce continue to live in abject poverty, with little or no means of income.

The court, in a landmark judgment in 2017, held the practice "void" and "unconstitutional".

Divorced in April 2015, Ishrat Jahan lives with her two children in neighbouring Howrah district.

"I am struggling to make both ends meet. I don't have money to send my children to school. As of now, I depend on my relatives for financial assistance," she told PTI.

Jahan had joined the BJP in 2018 and was initially expected to be one of the major minority faces of the party in Bengal. It was also speculated that she would figure in BJP's list of Lok Sabha candidates in the state.

"Things appear to have changed. I am not in touch with the party any more. At times I visit party meetings, but that's about it," she said when asked if the BJP leaders inquire about her.

The story is no different for Shayara Bano and Atiya Sabri, who live under stressful financial conditions with no help from their divorced husbands.

"She doesn't have any income of her own ... We try to help her in whatever way we can," Bano's brother Arshad told PTI from Uttar Pradesh.

Sabri's brother Rizwan, who is a resident of Uttarakhand, said the family wants the court matter to be disposed of soon.&nbsp;

He appealed to both the state and central governments to look into the early disposal of the case.

"My sister stays with me. She is part of my family. We don't want any financial help, we just want this matter to end soon," Rizwan said.

Two other petitioners, Afreen Rahman and Gulshan Parween, could not be contacted.

Rahatkar, when apprised of the condition of the three women, said she had met Jahan and assured her of financial assistance.

"We should always stand by those women who have suffered but not given up. I spoke to Ishrat and told her that we will provide assistance if she needed to send her children to school. We are also willing to give her loan under the government's Mudra scheme to help her start a business," Rahatkar told PTI.

Arguing that the triple Talaq Bill does not empower women, Sushmita, the president of All India Mahila Congress, said, "criminalizing the practice isn't the solution".

"How does it (bill) help a Muslim woman? Punishing the husband does not guarantee financial support for the woman. If you talk about empowering a woman, you have to find her suitable means of income," Dev said.

Uzma Alam, the convenor of Bengal unit of the women's cell of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, said, "no one but Jahan was responsible for her precarious condition".

"When she had issues with her husband and was given the talaq, I told her that we would help her in finding a job and make arrangements for her remarriage. But she had other things in her mind so she can't blame anybody for her condition now," she added.

The Triple Talaq Bill has been a major poll plank of the BJP, with the party trying its best to woo a section of minorities with the legislation, even as those who had led the crusade against the practice continue to fight for their survival.

The Triple Talaq Bill has been a major poll plank of the BJP, with the party trying its best to woo a section of minorities with the legislation, even as those who had led the crusade against the practice continue to fight for their survival. In its recently released manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, the saffron party, which failed to legislate the bill in Parliament due to stiff resistance by the opposition, has pledged to eliminate the practices of instant talaq and nikah halala if re-elected to power. Vijaya Rahatkar, the national president of the party's Mahila Morcha, said the efforts of the Narendra Modi government to pass the Triple Talaq Bill "will surely yield positive results for the BJP" in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Ironically, anti-triple talaq champions - Ishrat Jahan, Shayara Bano and Atiya Sabri - who had moved the Supreme Court to seek an end to the practice of instant divorce continue to live in abject poverty, with little or no means of income. The court, in a landmark judgment in 2017, held the practice "void" and "unconstitutional". Divorced in April 2015, Ishrat Jahan lives with her two children in neighbouring Howrah district. "I am struggling to make both ends meet. I don't have money to send my children to school. As of now, I depend on my relatives for financial assistance," she told PTI. Jahan had joined the BJP in 2018 and was initially expected to be one of the major minority faces of the party in Bengal. It was also speculated that she would figure in BJP's list of Lok Sabha candidates in the state. "Things appear to have changed. I am not in touch with the party any more. At times I visit party meetings, but that's about it," she said when asked if the BJP leaders inquire about her. The story is no different for Shayara Bano and Atiya Sabri, who live under stressful financial conditions with no help from their divorced husbands. "She doesn't have any income of her own ... We try to help her in whatever way we can," Bano's brother Arshad told PTI from Uttar Pradesh. Sabri's brother Rizwan, who is a resident of Uttarakhand, said the family wants the court matter to be disposed of soon. He appealed to both the state and central governments to look into the early disposal of the case. "My sister stays with me. She is part of my family. We don't want any financial help, we just want this matter to end soon," Rizwan said. Two other petitioners, Afreen Rahman and Gulshan Parween, could not be contacted. Rahatkar, when apprised of the condition of the three women, said she had met Jahan and assured her of financial assistance. "We should always stand by those women who have suffered but not given up. I spoke to Ishrat and told her that we will provide assistance if she needed to send her children to school. We are also willing to give her loan under the government's Mudra scheme to help her start a business," Rahatkar told PTI. Arguing that the triple Talaq Bill does not empower women, Sushmita, the president of All India Mahila Congress, said, "criminalizing the practice isn't the solution". "How does it (bill) help a Muslim woman? Punishing the husband does not guarantee financial support for the woman. If you talk about empowering a woman, you have to find her suitable means of income," Dev said. Uzma Alam, the convenor of Bengal unit of the women's cell of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, said, "no one but Jahan was responsible for her precarious condition". "When she had issues with her husband and was given the talaq, I told her that we would help her in finding a job and make arrangements for her remarriage. But she had other things in her mind so she can't blame anybody for her condition now," she added.

Triple talaq crusaders continue to fight for survival

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-should-be-careful-while-acquiring-russias-s-400-triumf-air-defence-missile-cautions-us-congressman--140572">Russia's S-400 missile system</a>, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told.

New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.2 billion, the minister said in an interview this week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-purchase-russias-s-400-air-defence-units-in-multi-billion-dollar-deal-7456">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> in October, defying US warnings of sanctions on countries buying Russian military equipment. The sanctions were part of measures to punish Moscow for its actions in Ukraine in 2014.

President Donald Trump's administration imposed sanctions on China's military last year over Beijing's purchase of the S-400 and other military hardware.&nbsp;

It has also warned NATO member Turkey of sanctions for buying the S-400, and has suspended Turkey's participation in a US jet programme.

Sitharaman told AFP that Washington has taken on board that India, bordering both Pakistan and China, needed arms from Russia, and others, to remain a "strong partner".&nbsp;

Negotiations with Moscow, a longstanding supplier to India's military, on the S-400 began before the US sanctions were introduced, she said.

"In the case of S-400 we have explained ourselves well... That has been heard and understood," Sitharaman said. "They have appreciated the point of view put forward."

Asked if she was confident that India would avoid sanctions, Sitharaman said,&nbsp;"Yes I hope so."

Cold water

Before the deal was inked, Washington poured cold water on India's efforts to obtain a waiver from the US Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

Upgrades in arms systems "including the S-400 air and missile defence system" would be a particular focus for CAATSA, a US State Department spokesperson was quoted as saying by India's PTI news agency.&nbsp;

But Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, told a hearing in March that Washington wanted to "work through" the problem, calling India "an important emerging strategic partner."

He added however that India's contract with Russia has not been completed and that the US was "very keen to see (India) make an alternative choice (to the S-400) and we are working with them to provide potential alternatives."

China

Washington is in a tricky position with India. It wants to bolster ties with the Asian giant to counter China's assertiveness, a trend which has also rattled New Delhi.

In 2017 India and China had a military standoff over a Doklam claimed by both Beijing and Bhutan, a close ally of India.

Since then China and India have sought to patch up relations, including at a meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, China in April 2018.

"Sometimes there are differences and you have a face-off," Sitharaman said. "But our attempt, particularly after the prime minister's Wuhan meet with the Chinese president, our attempt has been that these differences... cannot be allowed to become disputes."

But China has also made inroads in Sri Lanka and the Maldives -- countries that India considers to be in its sphere of influence -- through its One Belt, One Road Initiative (OBOR), also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

India has particular concerns about a series of projects passing through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a disputed territory which was the fuse for a new military flare-up between Pakistan and India in February.

China has also blocked efforts to put on UN sanctions blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based militant group that claimed a suicide bombing in Kashmir's Pulwama district&nbsp;on February 14 that killed 40 Indian paramilitary troops.

New Delhi has reportedly declined a Chinese invitation to take part in an OBOR forum in China later this month.

"Areas which are ours legally, which are under illegal occupation of Pakistan, are the ones which are becoming part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," Sitharaman said.

"So having made that position very clear, we have not participated in anything to do with OBOR, and we stick to that position," she said.

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of Russia's S-400 missile system, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told. New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.

India is hopeful it will avoid US sanctions over its purchase of Russia's S-400 missile system, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told. New Delhi has been "heard and understood" by the US administration over its accord to buy the S-400 missile defence system for $5.2 billion, the minister said in an interview this week. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin in October, defying US warnings of sanctions on countries buying Russian military equipment. The sanctions were part of measures to punish Moscow for its actions in Ukraine in 2014. President Donald Trump's administration imposed sanctions on China's military last year over Beijing's purchase of the S-400 and other military hardware. It has also warned NATO member Turkey of sanctions for buying the S-400, and has suspended Turkey's participation in a US jet programme. Sitharaman told AFP that Washington has taken on board that India, bordering both Pakistan and China, needed arms from Russia, and others, to remain a "strong partner". Negotiations with Moscow, a longstanding supplier to India's military, on the S-400 began before the US sanctions were introduced, she said. "In the case of S-400 we have explained ourselves well... That has been heard and understood," Sitharaman said. "They have appreciated the point of view put forward." Asked if she was confident that India would avoid sanctions, Sitharaman said, "Yes I hope so." Cold water Before the deal was inked, Washington poured cold water on India's efforts to obtain a waiver from the US Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Upgrades in arms systems "including the S-400 air and missile defence system" would be a particular focus for CAATSA, a US State Department spokesperson was quoted as saying by India's PTI news agency. But Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, told a hearing in March that Washington wanted to "work through" the problem, calling India "an important emerging strategic partner." He added however that India's contract with Russia has not been completed and that the US was "very keen to see (India) make an alternative choice (to the S-400) and we are working with them to provide potential alternatives." China Washington is in a tricky position with India. It wants to bolster ties with the Asian giant to counter China's assertiveness, a trend which has also rattled New Delhi. In 2017 India and China had a military standoff over a Doklam claimed by both Beijing and Bhutan, a close ally of India. Since then China and India have sought to patch up relations, including at a meeting between Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, China in April 2018. "Sometimes there are differences and you have a face-off," Sitharaman said. "But our attempt, particularly after the prime minister's Wuhan meet with the Chinese president, our attempt has been that these differences... cannot be allowed to become disputes." But China has also made inroads in Sri Lanka and the Maldives -- countries that India considers to be in its sphere of influence -- through its One Belt, One Road Initiative (OBOR), also known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India has particular concerns about a series of projects passing through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a disputed territory which was the fuse for a new military flare-up between Pakistan and India in February. China has also blocked efforts to put on UN sanctions blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based militant group that claimed a suicide bombing in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 that killed 40 Indian paramilitary troops. New Delhi has reportedly declined a Chinese invitation to take part in an OBOR forum in China later this month. "Areas which are ours legally, which are under illegal occupation of Pakistan, are the ones which are becoming part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor," Sitharaman said. "So having made that position very clear, we have not participated in anything to do with OBOR, and we stick to that position," she said.

'Heard and understood' by US: Nirmala Sitharaman on S-400 missile deal with Russia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-will-do-nyay-to-governments-of-the-great-mgr-asks-pm-modi-in-tamil-nadu-210024">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls.

Addressing a massive rally in Bengaluru, he said the Congress has promised to remove the Army from Jammu and Kashmir, saying "exactly what Pakistan says word to word in Pakistan's language."

Devoting most parts of his speech to national security, Modi said the Congress had spoken about coming to power in its manifesto and added, "who can stop one from dreaming? "&nbsp;

"But let them dream about forming the government. I can understand it because a chaiwala has robbed the opportunity of four generations of Sultanate," he said.

Modi said what was worrying was that the Congress has said in its manifesto that if they form the government in Delhi, they would "remove" AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) that gives special powers to the soldiers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM:When Congress' 'mahamilavati remote govt' was at centre, didn't blasts occur in Bengaluru?Didn't the nation was living under fear of terror attacks?Did any major blast took place in last 5 yrs of your "chowkidaar's chowkidaari".It was power of your 1 vote that made it possible <a href="https://t.co/Go5tyjbXEV">pic.twitter.com/Go5tyjbXEV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117074020095098880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Which way are they going? Didn't you feel the pain and anger hearing this? The Jammu Kashmir for which thousands of soldiers were martyred, you want to make soldiers unarmed, helpless?" he asked the crowd.

Modi said Congress had also said in Pakistan's language that they would remove the army from Jammu and Kashmir.

"Is this okay with you, will you be able to forgive Congress?.

Pandit Nehru sowed the seed of fire in Kashmir and still, the country is bearing it, now they say they will remove the army from there, what is the meaning of it?"

Modi also referred to the talk about having two prime ministers -one in Hindustan and the other in J&amp;K (by National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah).

"Their talk of removing the law (AFSPA), removing the military and their Milavati friends talk about second Prime Minister.

If you see all these together, does Congress want to save Kashmir? Will you allow Kashmir to go away? The land on which our soldiers have shed their blood," Modi asked.

The Congress manifesto said the party proposed to reduce the presence of the Indian Army and central armed police forces (CAPFs) in the Kashmir valley.

It said the AFSPA and the Disturbed Areas Act in Jammu and Kashmir would be reviewed.

Referring to the air strike and surgical strike on terror camps in Pakistan and launch of ASAT (Anti Satellite) by India, Modi said the whole world was with India.

"Earlier whenever such things or statements were made, Russia used to be with us and the entire world with Pakistan. Now what has happened is China alone is with Pakistan while the entire world was with us. 
Isn't it India's strength? he asked.

"You might have felt Congress processor is slow, but their software is corrupt.

Their process is fast the only when something has to be done against the country's security and demoralise our brave soldiers," Modi said.

The Prime Minister also hit out at the Congress for its promise to review the sedition law, saying it wants to remove law to punish those who indulge in treason.

"Will you accept such Congress and their allies?"

Making such promises, can we forgive the Congress that has such a mindset?, he asked, telling voters that "in this election, punish Congress in such a way and also their allies that they should not be able to save their deposits."

The prime minister also took exception to the political row created by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance over the recent Income Tax raids on several JDS men across Karnataka.

Modi asked the crowd, "should the law be followed or not whether it is PM or CM or minister? Why get scared if you have not committed anything&nbsp; 
wrong?" he asked.

On March 28, the Income Tax department carried out raids at multiple locations in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Shivamogga and Hassan, triggering a strong reaction from Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress leaders, who accused the Centre of promoting the politics of vendetta.

Kumaraswamy had even called the I-T officers as BJP agents and led a protest by the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in front of the IT department office here.

In his rally at Mangaluru, Modi said the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka and parties alike were inspired by "Pariwarvad" (dynasty) and believed in giving power to even the last member of the family.

Addressing a massive rally, Modi said unlike the Congress, JDS and others, BJP's inspiration came from "Rashtrawad" (nationalism).

He said the Lok Sabha polls was not about who became an MP or prime minister or minister, but about how the "New India" should be and what should be its inspiration.

"Inspiration of Congress-JD(S) and parties like them is pariwarwad (dynasty) and our inspiration is rashtrawad (nationalism).

They look for ways to give power to even the last member of their family, while we are striving to bring those people ahead who are in the last line of society."

"Their darshan is vamshoday, while ours is antyodaya (uplifting the weaker sections of society).

Because of their vamshoday there will be corruption and injustice and because our antyodaya the glory of transparency and honesty will increase", Modi said.

Continuing to target the dynasty politics of Congress on the second consecutive day of his campaign in Karnataka, Modi said, "this vamshoday will ignore their own party senior leaders, while our antyodaya will make a tea seller the Prime Minister."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls. Addressing a massive rally in Bengaluru, he said the Congress has promised to remove the Army from Jammu and Kashmir, saying "exactly what Pakistan says word to word in Pakistan's language." Devoting most parts of his speech to national security, Modi said the Congress had spoken about coming to power in its manifesto and added, "who can stop one from dreaming? " "But let them dream about forming the government. I can understand it because a chaiwala has robbed the opportunity of four generations of Sultanate," he said. Modi said what was worrying was that the Congress has said in its manifesto that if they form the government in Delhi, they would "remove" AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) that gives special powers to the soldiers. PM:When Congress' 'mahamilavati remote govt' was at centre, didn't blasts occur in Bengaluru?Didn't the nation was living under fear of terror attacks?Did any major blast took place in last 5 yrs of your "chowkidaar's chowkidaari".It was power of your 1 vote that made it possible pic.twitter.com/Go5tyjbXEV — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × "Which way are they going? Didn't you feel the pain and anger hearing this? The Jammu Kashmir for which thousands of soldiers were martyred, you want to make soldiers unarmed, helpless?" he asked the crowd. Modi said Congress had also said in Pakistan's language that they would remove the army from Jammu and Kashmir. "Is this okay with you, will you be able to forgive Congress?. Pandit Nehru sowed the seed of fire in Kashmir and still, the country is bearing it, now they say they will remove the army from there, what is the meaning of it?" Modi also referred to the talk about having two prime ministers -one in Hindustan and the other in J&K (by National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah). "Their talk of removing the law (AFSPA), removing the military and their Milavati friends talk about second Prime Minister. If you see all these together, does Congress want to save Kashmir? Will you allow Kashmir to go away? The land on which our soldiers have shed their blood," Modi asked. The Congress manifesto said the party proposed to reduce the presence of the Indian Army and central armed police forces (CAPFs) in the Kashmir valley. It said the AFSPA and the Disturbed Areas Act in Jammu and Kashmir would be reviewed. Referring to the air strike and surgical strike on terror camps in Pakistan and launch of ASAT (Anti Satellite) by India, Modi said the whole world was with India. "Earlier whenever such things or statements were made, Russia used to be with us and the entire world with Pakistan. Now what has happened is China alone is with Pakistan while the entire world was with us. Isn't it India's strength? he asked. "You might have felt Congress processor is slow, but their software is corrupt. Their process is fast the only when something has to be done against the country's security and demoralise our brave soldiers," Modi said. The Prime Minister also hit out at the Congress for its promise to review the sedition law, saying it wants to remove law to punish those who indulge in treason. "Will you accept such Congress and their allies?" Making such promises, can we forgive the Congress that has such a mindset?, he asked, telling voters that "in this election, punish Congress in such a way and also their allies that they should not be able to save their deposits." The prime minister also took exception to the political row created by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance over the recent Income Tax raids on several JDS men across Karnataka. Modi asked the crowd, "should the law be followed or not whether it is PM or CM or minister? Why get scared if you have not committed anything wrong?" he asked. On March 28, the Income Tax department carried out raids at multiple locations in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Shivamogga and Hassan, triggering a strong reaction from Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress leaders, who accused the Centre of promoting the politics of vendetta. Kumaraswamy had even called the I-T officers as BJP agents and led a protest by the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in front of the IT department office here. In his rally at Mangaluru, Modi said the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka and parties alike were inspired by "Pariwarvad" (dynasty) and believed in giving power to even the last member of the family. Addressing a massive rally, Modi said unlike the Congress, JDS and others, BJP's inspiration came from "Rashtrawad" (nationalism). He said the Lok Sabha polls was not about who became an MP or prime minister or minister, but about how the "New India" should be and what should be its inspiration. "Inspiration of Congress-JD(S) and parties like them is pariwarwad (dynasty) and our inspiration is rashtrawad (nationalism). They look for ways to give power to even the last member of their family, while we are striving to bring those people ahead who are in the last line of society." "Their darshan is vamshoday, while ours is antyodaya (uplifting the weaker sections of society). Because of their vamshoday there will be corruption and injustice and because our antyodaya the glory of transparency and honesty will increase", Modi said. Continuing to target the dynasty politics of Congress on the second consecutive day of his campaign in Karnataka, Modi said, "this vamshoday will ignore their own party senior leaders, while our antyodaya will make a tea seller the Prime Minister."

Let them dream about forming government: PM Modi mocks Congress

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources.

According to a report by IANS, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter.&nbsp;Their exact identities and affiliations are being ascertained.

Based on specific information about the presence of terrorists in Gahand area of Shopian in south Kashmir, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in&nbsp;the&nbsp;morning, a police officer&nbsp;said.

According to him, forces were conducting searches when terrorists fired upon them.

The forces retaliated, resulting in an encounter, the officer said, adding the exchange of firing was going on and further details are awaited.&nbsp;

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources.

An encounter is currently underway between terrorists and security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported quoting police sources. According to a report by IANS, two terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Their exact identities and affiliations are being ascertained. Based on specific information about the presence of terrorists in Gahand area of Shopian in south Kashmir, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the morning, a police officer said. According to him, forces were conducting searches when terrorists fired upon them. The forces retaliated, resulting in an encounter, the officer said, adding the exchange of firing was going on and further details are awaited.

J&K: Encounter underway between security forces and terrorists in Shopian; 2 terrorists killed

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission.

"Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines. Have recommended re-poll at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to EC," said F R Kharkongor, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya.

He also said that the EC's instructions are still awaited.

He said that female voter turn out was higher than the male voters while the final voting percentage was recorded at 71.37 per cent.

"71.37 per cent is the final voting percentage, which is second highest in the state so far in the LS polls. Female turnout was higher than the male turnout," he said.

Lok Sabha election on two seats in Meghalaya was held on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission. "Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission. "Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines. Have recommended re-poll at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to EC," said F R Kharkongor, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya. He also said that the EC's instructions are still awaited. He said that female voter turn out was higher than the male voters while the final voting percentage was recorded at 71.37 per cent. "71.37 per cent is the final voting percentage, which is second highest in the state so far in the LS polls. Female turnout was higher than the male turnout," he said. Lok Sabha election on two seats in Meghalaya was held on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha poll 2019: Repolling recommended at one booth in Meghalaya

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

"If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar.

"We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said.

The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state. "If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar. "We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said. The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP promises 5 kg rice, 1/2 kg pulse and salt for one rupee to poor in Odisha

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana.

Kumari Selja is sitting Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana.

Candidates for three other seats have been announced in Haryana. The party has fielded Shruti Chaudhary from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Captain&nbsp;Ajay Singh Yadav from Gurgaon and Lalit Nagar from Faridabad.

Shruti Choudhry is the daughter of Kiran Choudhry, the Congress Legislature Party Leader in Haryana.

Haryana has 10 parliamentary seats that will go to vote on May 12 in the sixth phase of ongoing general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

It announced candidates for nine seats in Uttar-Pradesh including Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Gonda, Basti, Jaunpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Mohanlalganj (SC), Chandauli and Salempur. The party has fielded Ajit Pratap Kushwah from Ghazipur against Union Minister Manoj Sinha.

In Madhya Pradesh, the party has fielded Dewasish Jararia from Bhind, Ashok Singh from Gwalior and Dinesh Girwal from Dhar. For the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh elections are due on fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase.

Uttar Pradesh voted for its 8 Lok Sabha seats on April 11 while voting is due in the rest of phases. UP is voting in all the seven phases for its 80 seats. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana.

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana. Kumari Selja is sitting Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana. Candidates for three other seats have been announced in Haryana. The party has fielded Shruti Chaudhary from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Captain Ajay Singh Yadav from Gurgaon and Lalit Nagar from Faridabad. Shruti Choudhry is the daughter of Kiran Choudhry, the Congress Legislature Party Leader in Haryana. Haryana has 10 parliamentary seats that will go to vote on May 12 in the sixth phase of ongoing general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. It announced candidates for nine seats in Uttar-Pradesh including Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Gonda, Basti, Jaunpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Mohanlalganj (SC), Chandauli and Salempur. The party has fielded Ajit Pratap Kushwah from Ghazipur against Union Minister Manoj Sinha. In Madhya Pradesh, the party has fielded Dewasish Jararia from Bhind, Ashok Singh from Gwalior and Dinesh Girwal from Dhar. For the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh elections are due on fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase. Uttar Pradesh voted for its 8 Lok Sabha seats on April 11 while voting is due in the rest of phases. UP is voting in all the seven phases for its 80 seats. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress fields Kumari Selja from Ambala, Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak

Over 500 employees of Jet Airways on Saturday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in saving the airline, which has not been able to pay the salary to its pilots and engineers for the last three and a half months.

The employees of debt-ridden airline demonstrated at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) here to press for their demand.

"Pilots and engineers have not got their salary for the last three and a half months. Livelihood of over 23,000 people is at stake. We request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in the matter and save the airline," said Captain Ashwini Tyagi.

Terming the airline an asset for the country, Captain Rajeev Handa said, "This airline took India`s hospitality to the world. Not only employees but our passengers also want this airline to survive given its unmatched services."

Citing the figure of mere seven operational aircraft out of 127 aircraft in its kitty, Station Manager Abhijeet Angolkar said, "It is holiday season and airfares are skyrocketing due to this crisis as most of our aircraft have been grounded. Its survival is vital for the public as well as the industry."

Praising the management for having allowed employees to seek jobs in other airlines, Captain Tyagi said, "Nobody wants to leave this airline. That is only why we have been working without salaries for months now."

Exhibiting optimism that the crisis would be resolved, Captain Tyagi said, "We have heard that there are eight bidders in the fray. We hope that soon people will see Jet Airways aircraft in the sky." On Friday Jet Airways cancelled international flights till April 15.&nbsp;

Over 500 employees of Jet Airways on Saturday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in saving the airline, which has not been able to pay the salary to its pilots and engineers for the last three and a half months.

Over 500 employees of Jet Airways on Saturday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in saving the airline, which has not been able to pay the salary to its pilots and engineers for the last three and a half months. The employees of debt-ridden airline demonstrated at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) here to press for their demand. "Pilots and engineers have not got their salary for the last three and a half months. Livelihood of over 23,000 people is at stake. We request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in the matter and save the airline," said Captain Ashwini Tyagi. Terming the airline an asset for the country, Captain Rajeev Handa said, "This airline took India`s hospitality to the world. Not only employees but our passengers also want this airline to survive given its unmatched services." Citing the figure of mere seven operational aircraft out of 127 aircraft in its kitty, Station Manager Abhijeet Angolkar said, "It is holiday season and airfares are skyrocketing due to this crisis as most of our aircraft have been grounded. Its survival is vital for the public as well as the industry." Praising the management for having allowed employees to seek jobs in other airlines, Captain Tyagi said, "Nobody wants to leave this airline. That is only why we have been working without salaries for months now." Exhibiting optimism that the crisis would be resolved, Captain Tyagi said, "We have heard that there are eight bidders in the fray. We hope that soon people will see Jet Airways aircraft in the sky." On Friday Jet Airways cancelled international flights till April 15.

Jet Airways employees seek PM Modi's intervention to help them out

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news