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Mercury rose in the national capital on Tuesday, with the minimum temperature settling at 20.4 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal.

The MeT Office has forecast a further rise in the mercury and spell of heat waves from Wednesday onwards for the remainder of this week.

The weatherman has also predicted partly cloudy sky. The maximum temperature is likely to be 39 degrees Celsius later in the day.

Relative humidity was recorded at 62 per cent.

According to the MeT Department, the mercury will be 40 degrees Celsius and upward from April 10 to April 15.

On Monday, the maximum temperature settled at 36.4 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was recorded at 20.2 degrees Celsius. Mercury in the national capital had dipped by 6-7 degrees Celsius on Sunday evening following dust storm and thunderstorm.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settled at 40 degrees Celsius and 21 degrees Celsius respectively, the weatherman said.&nbsp;

Mercury rose in the national capital on Tuesday, with the minimum temperature settling at 20.4 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal. The MeT Office has forecast a further rise in the mercury and spell of heat waves from Wednesday onwards for the remainder of this week.

Mercury rose in the national capital on Tuesday, with the minimum temperature settling at 20.4 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal. The MeT Office has forecast a further rise in the mercury and spell of heat waves from Wednesday onwards for the remainder of this week. The weatherman has also predicted partly cloudy sky. The maximum temperature is likely to be 39 degrees Celsius later in the day. Relative humidity was recorded at 62 per cent. According to the MeT Department, the mercury will be 40 degrees Celsius and upward from April 10 to April 15. On Monday, the maximum temperature settled at 36.4 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was recorded at 20.2 degrees Celsius. Mercury in the national capital had dipped by 6-7 degrees Celsius on Sunday evening following dust storm and thunderstorm. On Wednesday, the maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settled at 40 degrees Celsius and 21 degrees Celsius respectively, the weatherman said.

Mercury rises in Delhi, MeT forecast heatwave for rest of week

The Supreme Court Tuesday held that a woman driven out of her matrimonial home can file a criminal case against her estranged spouse and in-laws at a place where she has taken shelter.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi delivered an important judgment with regard to the territorial jurisdiction of a place where a married woman can file cases against her estranged husband and in-laws after being subjected to dowry harassment and cruelty.

The bench said besides the place where a woman was living before and after marriage, the place of shelter will also have territorial jurisdiction for filing matrimonial cases.

The apex court verdict came on a plea filed by one Rupali Devi of Uttar Pradesh.

The Supreme Court Tuesday held that a woman driven out of her matrimonial home can file a criminal case against her estranged spouse and in-laws at a place where she has taken shelter.

The Supreme Court Tuesday held that a woman driven out of her matrimonial home can file a criminal case against her estranged spouse and in-laws at a place where she has taken shelter. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi delivered an important judgment with regard to the territorial jurisdiction of a place where a married woman can file cases against her estranged husband and in-laws after being subjected to dowry harassment and cruelty. The bench said besides the place where a woman was living before and after marriage, the place of shelter will also have territorial jurisdiction for filing matrimonial cases. The apex court verdict came on a plea filed by one Rupali Devi of Uttar Pradesh.

Woman driven out of matrimonial home can file case at place where she has taken shelter: Supreme Court

WION Wallet: Auto sales at their worst, signs of worry for Indian Economy

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping.

IORA, a group of 22 countries who share their shores with Indian ocean, are keen to understand the geopolitical construct that has the backing of New Delhi and Washington and is increasingly gaining currency in the region.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION in Pretoria, Antoinette Rademan, director of IORA at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of South African foreign ministry said, "There was a request...for members to discuss it. This is taking place this week in a geostrategic workshop."

Adding, "We have to take cognisance of developments such as the Indo-pacific concept for which we have a workshop."

Delhi and Washington consider themselves as the bookends of the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year even changed the name of its largest naval command, US Pacific command, to 'Indo-Pacific Command'&nbsp;to give a boost to the growing concept.

China is deeply suspicious of the concept and sees it as its encirclement and refuses to recognise it.

Describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality."

ASEAN is also discussing the concept.&nbsp;Thailand which assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN this year said that the grouping is working on a common approach for the Indo-Pacific concept.&nbsp;

"ASEAN is working on a common approach on an Indo-Pacific concept that complements existing frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA," Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai.

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping.

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping. IORA, a group of 22 countries who share their shores with Indian ocean, are keen to understand the geopolitical construct that has the backing of New Delhi and Washington and is increasingly gaining currency in the region. Speaking to WION in Pretoria, Antoinette Rademan, director of IORA at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of South African foreign ministry said, "There was a request...for members to discuss it. This is taking place this week in a geostrategic workshop." Adding, "We have to take cognisance of developments such as the Indo-pacific concept for which we have a workshop." Delhi and Washington consider themselves as the bookends of the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year even changed the name of its largest naval command, US Pacific command, to 'Indo-Pacific Command' to give a boost to the growing concept. China is deeply suspicious of the concept and sees it as its encirclement and refuses to recognise it. Describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality." ASEAN is also discussing the concept. Thailand which assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN this year said that the grouping is working on a common approach for the Indo-Pacific concept. "ASEAN is working on a common approach on an Indo-Pacific concept that complements existing frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA," Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai.

Indian-Ocean Rim Association to discuss Indo-Pacific concept in Mauritius meet

As we head for a 7-phase general election, back to back campaigns are underway to seek votes. But, how well do we know our candidates? 
Have we ever scrolled through their affidavits and nomination papers? For the voters in Tamil Nadu (which goes to polls on April 18) this otherwise complex process is just a few taps away via a free mobile app that was launched on Tuesday.

Arappor Iyakkam a voluntary movement based out of Tamil Nadu has compiled the crucial information on all the 863 candidates who are to contest from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The information which has been sourced from their respective affidavits is tabulated on a free app that is available for download from the Android Play Store.&nbsp;

Generally one would have to sift through hundreds of individual PDF files from the Election commission site in order to have a look at the candidates’ affidavits, but this App displays information in a user-friendly manner in Tamil and English. A tap on the constituency will display the candidates and once a particular a candidate is selected his/her individual details will be shown.&nbsp;

The individual details include a photograph, the party’s name, candidates’ educational background, profession, assets and liabilities declared, details of pending criminal cases. The details mentioned on the App are as mentioned by the candidates on the self-attested affidavits. In order to distinguish between cases, the criminal cases and the politically motivated cases have been mentioned separately. &nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Jayaram Venkatesan, the Convener of Arappor Iyakkam said, heavyweight candidates from established parties are projected easily, but much is not known about their background. We hope the App will boost the confidence of the good candidates and put fear in the minds of those with a criminal background. This is a politically neutral App that gives equal chance to all candidates.

This App is the result of the efforts of over 200 volunteers who had been working overtime from March 26 until today’s launch, said Deepa Seshadri, State Body Member, Arappor Iyakkam. Our App does not require any personal information or registration for the users, it has been made to empower and educate the voters to choose wisely. Can’t we spare 10 minutes to have a look at the candidates who could end up representing us for the next five years, she questioned.&nbsp;

To widen their reach, the team is also coming up with constituency-wise explainer videos with a voice-over that enlists the profile and background details about each candidate. Very soon the App would also incorporate the details of candidates contesting the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s 18 vacant assembly seats.&nbsp;

As we head for a 7-phase general election, back to back campaigns are underway to seek votes. But, how well do we know our candidates? Have we ever scrolled through their affidavits and nomination papers?

As we head for a 7-phase general election, back to back campaigns are underway to seek votes. But, how well do we know our candidates? Have we ever scrolled through their affidavits and nomination papers? For the voters in Tamil Nadu (which goes to polls on April 18) this otherwise complex process is just a few taps away via a free mobile app that was launched on Tuesday. Arappor Iyakkam a voluntary movement based out of Tamil Nadu has compiled the crucial information on all the 863 candidates who are to contest from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The information which has been sourced from their respective affidavits is tabulated on a free app that is available for download from the Android Play Store. Generally one would have to sift through hundreds of individual PDF files from the Election commission site in order to have a look at the candidates’ affidavits, but this App displays information in a user-friendly manner in Tamil and English. A tap on the constituency will display the candidates and once a particular a candidate is selected his/her individual details will be shown. The individual details include a photograph, the party’s name, candidates’ educational background, profession, assets and liabilities declared, details of pending criminal cases. The details mentioned on the App are as mentioned by the candidates on the self-attested affidavits. In order to distinguish between cases, the criminal cases and the politically motivated cases have been mentioned separately. Speaking to WION, Jayaram Venkatesan, the Convener of Arappor Iyakkam said, heavyweight candidates from established parties are projected easily, but much is not known about their background. We hope the App will boost the confidence of the good candidates and put fear in the minds of those with a criminal background. This is a politically neutral App that gives equal chance to all candidates. This App is the result of the efforts of over 200 volunteers who had been working overtime from March 26 until today’s launch, said Deepa Seshadri, State Body Member, Arappor Iyakkam. Our App does not require any personal information or registration for the users, it has been made to empower and educate the voters to choose wisely. Can’t we spare 10 minutes to have a look at the candidates who could end up representing us for the next five years, she questioned. To widen their reach, the team is also coming up with constituency-wise explainer videos with a voice-over that enlists the profile and background details about each candidate. Very soon the App would also incorporate the details of candidates contesting the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s 18 vacant assembly seats.

NGO launches bilingual know your candidate App for Tamil Nadu

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week.

UK Foreign Office minister Mark Field told a debate on Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Westminster Hall in the House of Commons complex that while it was important to draw a line under the past over the shameful episode in history, repeatedly issuing apologies for events related to the British Raj came with their own problems.

I have slightly orthodox views on Britain's colonial past. I feel little reluctant to make apologies for things that have happened in the past, the minister said.

He added: There are also concerns that any government department has to make about an apology, given that there may well be financial implications to making an apology.

I feel we perhaps debase the currency of apologies if we are seen to make them for many, many events.

However, while reiterating the UK government's deepest regret over the massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, Field stressed that the issue of appropriately marking the sombre 100th anniversary remains a work in progress and an active debate was taking place amongst ministers and senior officials.

Importantly, our modern relationship with India is focussed on the future, on pooling our strengths However, I also recognise that the relationship is framed in part by the past, Field said, adding that he had been compelled by the latest debate to take a message back to Downing Street that perhaps a little more is required than the deep regret already expressed by the UK government.

Something is holding us back fulfilling the full potential of the flourishing relationship (with India) and I do accept that it (Jallianwala Bagh) perhaps grates particularly strongly, the minister said.

The debate, tabled by Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman, included a series of cross-party British MPs speaking on the enduring and very deep feelings and emotions the monstrous event continues to rise across the world.

Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma called for a formal apology to be made by British Prime Minister Theresa May, with others echoing the demand and also raising the prospect of a physical memorial to be constructed in memory of those who lost their lives.

Many of the MPs included an account of General Dyer firing on a Baisakhi gathering at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, without warning and blocking the main exit of the park with his soldiers and armoured vehicles.

Dyer is recorded as having continued to fire for 10 minutes even as the thousands gathered in the grounds tried to escape, leaving thousands dead and injured.

Blackman, in wrapping up the outcomes of the latest UK parliamentary intervention over the massacre, said the key messages that came out of the debate was that the incident must form part of the school curriculum in the UK and that a formal apology for the incident remains the right thing to do.

The Westminster Hall event follows a debate in the House of Lords in February when a government minister had confirmed that UK foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt was "reflecting" on demands for a formal apology to mark the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre this month.

In their capacity as members of a newly-formed Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCC), Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had also written to Theresa May calling for a formal apology.

The JBCC, chaired by businessman and philanthropist Sardar Balbir Singh Kakar and made up of a number of Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs) including members of the International Punjab Forum, is planning a commemorative event in the House of Lords on Saturday to mark the centenary of the massacre on April 13, 1919.

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week.

The UK government on Tuesday flagged financial implications as one of the factors it had to consider while reflecting upon demands for a formal apology for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to mark its centenary this week. UK Foreign Office minister Mark Field told a debate on Jallianwala Bagh massacre at Westminster Hall in the House of Commons complex that while it was important to draw a line under the past over the shameful episode in history, repeatedly issuing apologies for events related to the British Raj came with their own problems. I have slightly orthodox views on Britain's colonial past. I feel little reluctant to make apologies for things that have happened in the past, the minister said. He added: There are also concerns that any government department has to make about an apology, given that there may well be financial implications to making an apology. I feel we perhaps debase the currency of apologies if we are seen to make them for many, many events. However, while reiterating the UK government's deepest regret over the massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, Field stressed that the issue of appropriately marking the sombre 100th anniversary remains a work in progress and an active debate was taking place amongst ministers and senior officials. Importantly, our modern relationship with India is focussed on the future, on pooling our strengths However, I also recognise that the relationship is framed in part by the past, Field said, adding that he had been compelled by the latest debate to take a message back to Downing Street that perhaps a little more is required than the deep regret already expressed by the UK government. Something is holding us back fulfilling the full potential of the flourishing relationship (with India) and I do accept that it (Jallianwala Bagh) perhaps grates particularly strongly, the minister said. The debate, tabled by Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman, included a series of cross-party British MPs speaking on the enduring and very deep feelings and emotions the monstrous event continues to rise across the world. Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma called for a formal apology to be made by British Prime Minister Theresa May, with others echoing the demand and also raising the prospect of a physical memorial to be constructed in memory of those who lost their lives. Many of the MPs included an account of General Dyer firing on a Baisakhi gathering at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, without warning and blocking the main exit of the park with his soldiers and armoured vehicles. Dyer is recorded as having continued to fire for 10 minutes even as the thousands gathered in the grounds tried to escape, leaving thousands dead and injured. Blackman, in wrapping up the outcomes of the latest UK parliamentary intervention over the massacre, said the key messages that came out of the debate was that the incident must form part of the school curriculum in the UK and that a formal apology for the incident remains the right thing to do. The Westminster Hall event follows a debate in the House of Lords in February when a government minister had confirmed that UK foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt was "reflecting" on demands for a formal apology to mark the centenary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre this month. In their capacity as members of a newly-formed Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCC), Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had also written to Theresa May calling for a formal apology. The JBCC, chaired by businessman and philanthropist Sardar Balbir Singh Kakar and made up of a number of Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs) including members of the International Punjab Forum, is planning a commemorative event in the House of Lords on Saturday to mark the centenary of the massacre on April 13, 1919.

UK flags financial implications of Jallianwala Bagh apology, calls it 'work in progress'

A BJP leader and four&nbsp;policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada.

The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when the BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area.

The Naxalites blew up a vehicle in the convoy with an IED and opened indiscriminate fire at the occupants. The police confirmed that the BJP leader and policemen were killed in the attack.

It comes just two days before voting for Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh. The state will go to polls in the first three phases - April 11, 18 and 23 for its 11 parliamentary constituencies. The Maoists have given a call for a boycott of the elections.

"All the killed security personnel are from District Reserve Group," said an official. The District Reserve Group is a locally raised force vested with battling Maoists.
<img alt="Naxal" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e55e8eeb-4dff-4420-be4a-7e6aab861c2f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190409-WA0012%281%29.jpg" />
Bheema Mandavi was the lone Bharatiya Janata Party MLA from Bastar region which accounts for 12 Assembly seats.&nbsp;
<img alt="naxal" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0810d6b0-9dcc-4dc3-937a-92032738598c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190409-WA0017.jpg" />
State police and paramilitary forces have intensified anti-Naxal operations ahead of the polls.

Security forces have been rushed to the area.

A BJP leader and four policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada. The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when the BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area.

A BJP leader and four policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada. The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when the BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area. The Naxalites blew up a vehicle in the convoy with an IED and opened indiscriminate fire at the occupants. The police confirmed that the BJP leader and policemen were killed in the attack. It comes just two days before voting for Lok Sabha elections in Chhattisgarh. The state will go to polls in the first three phases - April 11, 18 and 23 for its 11 parliamentary constituencies. The Maoists have given a call for a boycott of the elections. "All the killed security personnel are from District Reserve Group," said an official. The District Reserve Group is a locally raised force vested with battling Maoists. Bheema Mandavi was the lone Bharatiya Janata Party MLA from Bastar region which accounts for 12 Assembly seats. State police and paramilitary forces have intensified anti-Naxal operations ahead of the polls. Security forces have been rushed to the area.

Dantewada: BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi, four security personnel killed in Naxal attack

The Special investigation team probing allegations against Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal will submit the charge sheet at the Court in Kerala's Pala today, in connection with the nun-rape case.

In September, Mulakkal -- head of the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab -- was arrested in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case where he was accused of repeatedly raping a senior nun between 2014 to 2016.

The nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions.

The nun also said she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman.

However, the bishop denied the charges.&nbsp;

Mulakkal is currently out on bail granted by Kerala high court on condition that he will not enter the state except for appearing before the probe officer.

The conditions are applicable until the charge sheet is filed.

Earlier in March, five nuns affiliated with the Missionaries of Jesus convent at Kuruvilangad approached Kottayam Superintendent of police to submit a petition seeking a speedy submission of the charge sheet against Bishop Mulakkal.

In their plea, nuns had questioned the reason behind the delay in filing the charge sheet. They also stated that as they are the witnesses the delay is causing they immense pressure.

The Special investigation team probing allegations against Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal will submit the charge sheet at the Court in Kerala's Pala today, in connection with the nun-rape case.

The Special investigation team probing allegations against Jalandhar Bishop Franco Mulakkal will submit the charge sheet at the Court in Kerala's Pala today, in connection with the nun-rape case. In September, Mulakkal -- head of the Roman Catholic Diocese in Jalandhar, Punjab -- was arrested in Tripunithura after three days of questioning in the case where he was accused of repeatedly raping a senior nun between 2014 to 2016. The nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions. The nun also said she had to approach the police as church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman. However, the bishop denied the charges. Mulakkal is currently out on bail granted by Kerala high court on condition that he will not enter the state except for appearing before the probe officer. The conditions are applicable until the charge sheet is filed. Earlier in March, five nuns affiliated with the Missionaries of Jesus convent at Kuruvilangad approached Kottayam Superintendent of police to submit a petition seeking a speedy submission of the charge sheet against Bishop Mulakkal. In their plea, nuns had questioned the reason behind the delay in filing the charge sheet. They also stated that as they are the witnesses the delay is causing they immense pressure.

Kerala nun rape case: Special investigation team to file chargesheet against Bishop Franco Mulakkal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister.

Addressing a rally in Mysore, he said the only vision and agenda of the Congress was "Modi Hatao" (remove Modi), which was also shared by the partners of "Mahamilavat", a derisive reference to the "grand alliance" of opposition parties.

Modi said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has become a "punching bag" for the Congress.

He said though the Congress was sharing power with JDS in the state, Gandhi preferred Kerala for his second seat besides the traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh rather than Karnataka.

Modi claimed this was because the Congress feared that Gowda might take revenge over former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi "backstabbing" him when he was removed as prime minister heading the United Front government in 1996.

He also said one could imagine the plight of the Congress today when its president's existing seat itself was in danger, referring to Rahul Gandhi contesting from the second seat of Wayanad in Kerala.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not contest Lok Sabha polls from Karnataka fearing revenge by coalition partner JDS' supremo H D Deve Gowda for being 'backstabbed' by Sonia Gandhi when he was removed as prime minister. Addressing a rally in Mysore, he said the only vision and agenda of the Congress was "Modi Hatao" (remove Modi), which was also shared by the partners of "Mahamilavat", a derisive reference to the "grand alliance" of opposition parties. Modi said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has become a "punching bag" for the Congress. He said though the Congress was sharing power with JDS in the state, Gandhi preferred Kerala for his second seat besides the traditional stronghold of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh rather than Karnataka. Modi claimed this was because the Congress feared that Gowda might take revenge over former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi "backstabbing" him when he was removed as prime minister heading the United Front government in 1996. He also said one could imagine the plight of the Congress today when its president's existing seat itself was in danger, referring to Rahul Gandhi contesting from the second seat of Wayanad in Kerala.

Rahul didn't contest from Karnataka fearing 'revenge' from Gowda: PM Modi

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta. The party termed the order 'arbitrary, biased and motivated.'

The letter reads, "We, TMC would like to raise a strong protest against the order issued by the ECI no 434/WB/HP/2019 dated 9th April 2019 transferring the SP Coochbehar just before 48 hours of the date of poll in Coochbehar Parliamentary Constituency."&nbsp;

"The decision taken by the Election Commission of India to transfer the SP Coochbehar Mr Abhishek Gupta just two days before the date of the election is arbitrary, motivated and biased. From the events unfolded in the recent past, it is amply clear that such order of transfer has been passed at the behest of the ruling party at the Centre i.e. BJP, its national leaders, as well as its local representatives in West Bengal, especially in view of the statements issued by its leaders during the recent election meeting held at Coochbehar in respect whereof a complaint has already been submitted to you on April 7, in respect whereof no action, has been taken by the ECI," adds the letter.&nbsp;

According to sources in the EC, the Coochbehar SP was transferred amidst allegations of inaction by opposition parties. BJP senior leader Mukul Roy had claimed that they were prevented from erecting the stage at Rash Mela Grounds in Coochbehar district where the Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a public meeting last Sunday. Four days back, the EC transferred two top cops - Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh after the duo was reportedly seen at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's dharna.&nbsp;

Dr Rajesh Kumar was posted as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner and NR Babu was posted as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner.&nbsp;

Two other district SPs - Birbhum and Diamond Harbour - were transferred too.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta. The party termed the order 'arbitrary, biased and motivated.' The letter reads, "We, TMC would like to raise a strong protest against the order issued by the ECI no 434/WB/HP/2019 dated 9th April 2019 transferring the SP Coochbehar just before 48 hours of the date of poll in Coochbehar Parliamentary Constituency." "The decision taken by the Election Commission of India to transfer the SP Coochbehar Mr Abhishek Gupta just two days before the date of the election is arbitrary, motivated and biased. From the events unfolded in the recent past, it is amply clear that such order of transfer has been passed at the behest of the ruling party at the Centre i.e. BJP, its national leaders, as well as its local representatives in West Bengal, especially in view of the statements issued by its leaders during the recent election meeting held at Coochbehar in respect whereof a complaint has already been submitted to you on April 7, in respect whereof no action, has been taken by the ECI," adds the letter. According to sources in the EC, the Coochbehar SP was transferred amidst allegations of inaction by opposition parties. BJP senior leader Mukul Roy had claimed that they were prevented from erecting the stage at Rash Mela Grounds in Coochbehar district where the Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a public meeting last Sunday. Four days back, the EC transferred two top cops - Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh after the duo was reportedly seen at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's dharna. Dr Rajesh Kumar was posted as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner and NR Babu was posted as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner. Two other district SPs - Birbhum and Diamond Harbour - were transferred too.

TMC writes to Election Commission, terms transfer order of SP Coochbehar as arbitrary, biased and motivated

In a scathing criticism of the BJP's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said it was the voice of "an isolated man", besides being "short-sighted" and "arrogant".

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its manifesto for the high-stakes general election starting April 11 on Monday, promising to implement the NRC in different parts of the country to push out infiltrators and zero tolerance to terror while reiterating its pet causes -- construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya and scrapping of Articles 370 and 35A, dealing with Jammu and Kashmir's special status.

"The Congress manifesto was created through discussion. The voice of over a million Indian people it is wise and powerful," Gandhi said in a tweet.

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The Congress manifesto was created through discussion. The voice of over a million Indian people it is wise and powerful. 
 
The BJP Manifesto was created in a closed room. The voice of an isolated man, it is short sighted and arrogant.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1115452958332915717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The BJP Manifesto was created in a closed room. The voice of an isolated man, it is short-sighted and arrogant," he added.

The Congress had dubbed the BJP's election manifesto a "Jhansa Patra" (deception document) and a "bubble of lies" on Monday and said it would have been better had the BJP had issued a "maafinama" (apology letter ) instead.

In a scathing criticism of the BJP's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said it was the voice of "an isolated man", besides being "short-sighted" and "arrogant".

In a scathing criticism of the BJP's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said it was the voice of "an isolated man", besides being "short-sighted" and "arrogant". The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its manifesto for the high-stakes general election starting April 11 on Monday, promising to implement the NRC in different parts of the country to push out infiltrators and zero tolerance to terror while reiterating its pet causes -- construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya and scrapping of Articles 370 and 35A, dealing with Jammu and Kashmir's special status. "The Congress manifesto was created through discussion. The voice of over a million Indian people it is wise and powerful," Gandhi said in a tweet. The Congress manifesto was created through discussion. The voice of over a million Indian people it is wise and powerful. The BJP Manifesto was created in a closed room. The voice of an isolated man, it is short sighted and arrogant. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 9, 2019 × "The BJP Manifesto was created in a closed room. The voice of an isolated man, it is short-sighted and arrogant," he added. The Congress had dubbed the BJP's election manifesto a "Jhansa Patra" (deception document) and a "bubble of lies" on Monday and said it would have been better had the BJP had issued a "maafinama" (apology letter ) instead.

BJP's poll manifesto voice of an isolated man: Rahul Gandhi

The Election Commission of Chhattisgarh clarified on Tuesday that the polls for the Lok Sabha elections 2019 will go as per the schedule.

The clarification from the EC came after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-bjp-convoy-attacked-by-naxals-policemen-mla-killed-209063">Naxal attack in Dantewad</a>a that claimed the lives of six people including BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi.

Following the Naxal attack, the Chief Electoral Officer of the state had called for an immediate video conference meeting of collectors and SPs from the affected districts covering phase 1 and phase 2 polls.

The EC also instructed the officials to take the utmost precautions over the next few days.

A BJP leader and five policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada.

The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when the BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area.

Meanwhile, Special DG (Anti-Naxal Ops) DM Awasthi has claimed that the Bachheli PS Incharge had informed the BJP MLA that adequate security was not present on the route near Kuakonda and had advised him to not go there.

The Election Commission of Chhattisgarh clarified on Tuesday that the polls for the Lok Sabha elections 2019 will go as per the schedule. The clarification from the EC came after the Naxal attack in Dantewada that claimed the lives of six people including BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi.

The Election Commission of Chhattisgarh clarified on Tuesday that the polls for the Lok Sabha elections 2019 will go as per the schedule. The clarification from the EC came after the Naxal attack in Dantewada that claimed the lives of six people including BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi. Following the Naxal attack, the Chief Electoral Officer of the state had called for an immediate video conference meeting of collectors and SPs from the affected districts covering phase 1 and phase 2 polls. The EC also instructed the officials to take the utmost precautions over the next few days. A BJP leader and five policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada. The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when the BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area. Meanwhile, Special DG (Anti-Naxal Ops) DM Awasthi has claimed that the Bachheli PS Incharge had informed the BJP MLA that adequate security was not present on the route near Kuakonda and had advised him to not go there.

Voting for Lok Sabha elections 2019 will go as per schedule: EC after naxal attack

The green valley of Koraput located in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/first-phase-lok-sabha-polls-after-pm-modis-rally-bjp-eyes-cooch-behar-in-west-bengal-208675">southern Odisha with over</a> one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat.

While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress.

Koraput, a reserved&nbsp;ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in&nbsp;Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter.

The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD.

This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004.

The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour.

Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress.

Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD.

The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end.

Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong&nbsp;contender would mean a close fight is on the cards.&nbsp;

The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO. Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat. While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress. Koraput, a reserved ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter. The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD. This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004. The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour. Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress. Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD. The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end. Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong contender would mean a close fight is on the cards. The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

First phase polls: BJD, BJP, Congress in fierce fight in Odisha's Koraput

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp.

Modi also urged the voters to dedicate their first vote to the slain CRPF personnel in the Pulwama terror attack and to the cause of providing pucca houses to the poor, water in farms of farmers and 'healthcare for all'. The first phase of the multi-phase parliamentary elections begins Thursday.

The remarks by Modi on the IAF operation on February 26 while addressing rallies in Maharashtra and Karnataka prompted the CPI-M to write a letter to the Election Commission(EC) alleging violation of model code.

"With deep anguish we are drawing your attention to the latest violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is also violating the specific direction of the Election Commission to refrain from invoking the armed forces for seeking votes," CPI-M politburo member Nilotpal Basu said.

Congress spokesman Kapil Sibal told reporters in Delhi there should be no politics in the name of our martyrs, but it is happening and the 'sad part' is that the Election Commission is also not doing anything about it.

The EC issued an advisory on March 19 asking parties and their candidates to desist from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces during their election campaign.

"Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike," Modi said, appealing to the first-time voters at his rally in Ausa in Latur district in Maharashtra.

"I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer jawans' (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan).

"Can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer shaheed' (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi said. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed in an attack on their convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir by a Jaish suicide bomber on February 14.

Modi said the first-time voters should remember that their first vote is something which they will remember for the rest of their lives. "You will always remember to whom did you vote and in which election."

"Can your first vote be dedicated to (the cause of) providing pucca houses to the poor?. Should not your first vote go for providing water in farms of farmers?" he asked.

"Should not you vote for 'healthcare for all' and the Ayushman Bharat scheme," Modi said.

Modi spoke on similar lines at his rally in Chitradurga in Karnataka while greeting first time voters across the country and asked them to vote after thinking to bring a strong government in the country.

He said in this Lok Sabha election people have to choose not only an MP or a prime minister, but a strong government for a strong India. "Only a strong government can take firm decisions for the benefit of the country."

Citing how a strong government functions, Modi again referred to the Balakot air strike in response to the Pulwama carnage.

"There was a time five years ago, when Pakistan's terrorists used to attack us and Pakistan used to threaten us. Our brave soldiers used to seek permission for action, but the government then sat in fear."

"This Chowkidar (watchman) has changed the situation. Now if there is fear, it is on the other side of the border. People sitting in power there are getting different types of nightmares...Terrorists are frightened after Balakot attack," he said.

Devoting a significant part of his speech to national security, he asked the crowd, "when we attacked Pakistan's terrorists did you like it or not? Are you happy? Did I do right?" to which it roared in approval.

"When we attacked terrorists it pained Pakistan, but tears could be seen among those in Congress and JD(S)," Modi said. The JD(S) and Congress are ruling coalition partners in Karnataka.

He said the whole world stood with India, but "our Mahamilavati dal here" (Congress-JDS), was condemning Modi instead of Pakistan.

"The chief minister (H D Kumarawamy) here went a step ahead and said the bravery of Indian soldiers should not be spoken, because it will affect their vote bank...."I want to ask the chief minister whether his vote bank is in India or in Pakistan? The chief minister should clarify on this," Modi said.

Under the BJP's watch it is the policy of 'New India' that it will kill terrorists by barging into their dens, he said.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah hoped that first-time voters ask the prime minister why the Balakot air strike became necessary.

"I hope the first-time voters ask PM Modi why Balakot became necessary in the first place. Why did the Pulwama attack succeed? On whose watch have attacks in Uri, Pathankot, Sunjwan (Jammu), Nagrota &amp; Pulwama happened? Don't reward Balakot, punish Pulwama! (sic)" Abdullah tweeted.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also took a sarcastic swipe at the prime minister.

"Repeat after me. MCC is Modi Code of Conduct," she tweeted.

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Modi said had its leaders acted wisely, Pakistan would not have been created.

Pakistan would not have been born in 1947 had Congress leaders acted wisely in the pre-Independence era, Modi said. The Congress party's manifesto speaks the same language as that of Pakistan, he added.

Modi also attacked the Congress over the recent income tax raids at several locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and others on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions.

He alleged that corruption was the only activity which the Congress does "with honesty" after coming to power.

"You must have seen how boxes full of currency notes are being recovered from the houses of Congress courtiers. Buying votes shows their political culture. They are saying for the last six months that the watchman is a thief but from where have the notes come out and who is the real thief?" Modi said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the prime minister using the 'chowkidar chor hai' phrase, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal. 
&nbsp;

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp.

Invoking the Balakot air strikes inside Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked first-time voters for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls to dedicate their vote to those who carried out the daring operation to target a terror camp. Modi also urged the voters to dedicate their first vote to the slain CRPF personnel in the Pulwama terror attack and to the cause of providing pucca houses to the poor, water in farms of farmers and 'healthcare for all'. The first phase of the multi-phase parliamentary elections begins Thursday. The remarks by Modi on the IAF operation on February 26 while addressing rallies in Maharashtra and Karnataka prompted the CPI-M to write a letter to the Election Commission(EC) alleging violation of model code. "With deep anguish we are drawing your attention to the latest violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is also violating the specific direction of the Election Commission to refrain from invoking the armed forces for seeking votes," CPI-M politburo member Nilotpal Basu said. Congress spokesman Kapil Sibal told reporters in Delhi there should be no politics in the name of our martyrs, but it is happening and the 'sad part' is that the Election Commission is also not doing anything about it. The EC issued an advisory on March 19 asking parties and their candidates to desist from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces during their election campaign. "Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike," Modi said, appealing to the first-time voters at his rally in Ausa in Latur district in Maharashtra. "I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer jawans' (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan). "Can your first vote be dedicated to the 'veer shaheed' (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi said. As many as 40 CRPF personnel were killed in an attack on their convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir by a Jaish suicide bomber on February 14. Modi said the first-time voters should remember that their first vote is something which they will remember for the rest of their lives. "You will always remember to whom did you vote and in which election." "Can your first vote be dedicated to (the cause of) providing pucca houses to the poor?. Should not your first vote go for providing water in farms of farmers?" he asked. "Should not you vote for 'healthcare for all' and the Ayushman Bharat scheme," Modi said. Modi spoke on similar lines at his rally in Chitradurga in Karnataka while greeting first time voters across the country and asked them to vote after thinking to bring a strong government in the country. He said in this Lok Sabha election people have to choose not only an MP or a prime minister, but a strong government for a strong India. "Only a strong government can take firm decisions for the benefit of the country." Citing how a strong government functions, Modi again referred to the Balakot air strike in response to the Pulwama carnage. "There was a time five years ago, when Pakistan's terrorists used to attack us and Pakistan used to threaten us. Our brave soldiers used to seek permission for action, but the government then sat in fear." "This Chowkidar (watchman) has changed the situation. Now if there is fear, it is on the other side of the border. People sitting in power there are getting different types of nightmares...Terrorists are frightened after Balakot attack," he said. Devoting a significant part of his speech to national security, he asked the crowd, "when we attacked Pakistan's terrorists did you like it or not? Are you happy? Did I do right?" to which it roared in approval. "When we attacked terrorists it pained Pakistan, but tears could be seen among those in Congress and JD(S)," Modi said. The JD(S) and Congress are ruling coalition partners in Karnataka. He said the whole world stood with India, but "our Mahamilavati dal here" (Congress-JDS), was condemning Modi instead of Pakistan. "The chief minister (H D Kumarawamy) here went a step ahead and said the bravery of Indian soldiers should not be spoken, because it will affect their vote bank...."I want to ask the chief minister whether his vote bank is in India or in Pakistan? The chief minister should clarify on this," Modi said. Under the BJP's watch it is the policy of 'New India' that it will kill terrorists by barging into their dens, he said. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah hoped that first-time voters ask the prime minister why the Balakot air strike became necessary. "I hope the first-time voters ask PM Modi why Balakot became necessary in the first place. Why did the Pulwama attack succeed? On whose watch have attacks in Uri, Pathankot, Sunjwan (Jammu), Nagrota & Pulwama happened? Don't reward Balakot, punish Pulwama! (sic)" Abdullah tweeted. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also took a sarcastic swipe at the prime minister. "Repeat after me. MCC is Modi Code of Conduct," she tweeted. Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Modi said had its leaders acted wisely, Pakistan would not have been created. Pakistan would not have been born in 1947 had Congress leaders acted wisely in the pre-Independence era, Modi said. The Congress party's manifesto speaks the same language as that of Pakistan, he added. Modi also attacked the Congress over the recent income tax raids at several locations, including in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, against close aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and others on charges of tax evasion and hawala transactions. He alleged that corruption was the only activity which the Congress does "with honesty" after coming to power. "You must have seen how boxes full of currency notes are being recovered from the houses of Congress courtiers. Buying votes shows their political culture. They are saying for the last six months that the watchman is a thief but from where have the notes come out and who is the real thief?" Modi said. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking the prime minister using the 'chowkidar chor hai' phrase, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal.

PM Modi to first-time voters: Dedicate vote for Balakot 'air strike' men; CPI-M alleges model code violation

A 67-year-old Indian national has conceded before a US court of trying to obtain American citizenship through fraudulent means, the Department of Justice said Monday.

Harpal Singh charged with one count of attempted naturalisation fraud faces up to 10 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for August 5.

According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court, Singh applied for admission into the country as a tourist in March 1992 at Los Angeles International Airport by presenting an Indian passport that purported to contain an entry visa to the United States.

He was refused admission because the entry visa was deemed fraudulent and he was detained pending exclusion proceedings.

Singh thereafter applied for asylum in the United States and he was released on bond while his asylum claim was evaluated.

In June 1993, an immigration judge in New York denied Singh's asylum application and he was ordered to surrender for deportation. But he failed to appear for his deportation as ordered.

In August 1995, Singh again fraudulently applied for asylum in the United States and claimed that he had entered the United States by crossing the United States-Mexico border in December 1994.

Singh did not disclose that he had previously been denied asylum. In March 1996, an immigration judge denied Singh's second asylum application and he was again ordered to surrender for deportation. However, he again failed to appear for his deportation.

Later in May 1996, Singh again fraudulently applied for asylum in the United States under the identity of 'Surinder Singh,' claiming that he had entered the United States by crossing the United States-Mexico border in November 1995.

Singh did not disclose that he had previously been denied asylum under his true identity Harpal Singh. The application further claimed that Surinder Singh had been beaten and tortured in India in 1994 despite the fact that Singh had been living in the United States at the time under his true identity.

In June 1996, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service granted Singh's third asylum application in the name of 'Surinder Singh' based on fraudulent information provided by him.

Later in December 2015, Singh filed an Application for Naturalisation with the US Department of Homeland Security under the identity of 'Surinder Singh'. He falsely answered questions relating to his identity, his prior immigration applications, and his immigration status, among others.

In May 2018, Singh appeared in the identity of 'Surinder Singh' before an officer of the Homeland Security in Newark for an interview, which was conducted under oath and video-recorded. Singh was also assisted by counsel and by a Punjabi interpreter.

He falsely answered additional questions relating to his identity, his prior immigration applications, and his immigration status, among others.&nbsp;

A 67-year-old Indian national has conceded before a US court of trying to obtain American citizenship through fraudulent means, the Department of Justice said Monday.

A 67-year-old Indian national has conceded before a US court of trying to obtain American citizenship through fraudulent means, the Department of Justice said Monday. Harpal Singh charged with one count of attempted naturalisation fraud faces up to 10 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for August 5. According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court, Singh applied for admission into the country as a tourist in March 1992 at Los Angeles International Airport by presenting an Indian passport that purported to contain an entry visa to the United States. He was refused admission because the entry visa was deemed fraudulent and he was detained pending exclusion proceedings. Singh thereafter applied for asylum in the United States and he was released on bond while his asylum claim was evaluated. In June 1993, an immigration judge in New York denied Singh's asylum application and he was ordered to surrender for deportation. But he failed to appear for his deportation as ordered. In August 1995, Singh again fraudulently applied for asylum in the United States and claimed that he had entered the United States by crossing the United States-Mexico border in December 1994. Singh did not disclose that he had previously been denied asylum. In March 1996, an immigration judge denied Singh's second asylum application and he was again ordered to surrender for deportation. However, he again failed to appear for his deportation. Later in May 1996, Singh again fraudulently applied for asylum in the United States under the identity of 'Surinder Singh,' claiming that he had entered the United States by crossing the United States-Mexico border in November 1995. Singh did not disclose that he had previously been denied asylum under his true identity Harpal Singh. The application further claimed that Surinder Singh had been beaten and tortured in India in 1994 despite the fact that Singh had been living in the United States at the time under his true identity. In June 1996, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service granted Singh's third asylum application in the name of 'Surinder Singh' based on fraudulent information provided by him. Later in December 2015, Singh filed an Application for Naturalisation with the US Department of Homeland Security under the identity of 'Surinder Singh'. He falsely answered questions relating to his identity, his prior immigration applications, and his immigration status, among others. In May 2018, Singh appeared in the identity of 'Surinder Singh' before an officer of the Homeland Security in Newark for an interview, which was conducted under oath and video-recorded. Singh was also assisted by counsel and by a Punjabi interpreter. He falsely answered additional questions relating to his identity, his prior immigration applications, and his immigration status, among others.

Indian faces 10 years imprisonment for trying to get US citizenship by fraud

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country".

He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class.

"I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya.

"The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said.

The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others.

Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford.

He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi.

Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience.

"This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman).

"Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close.

Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal.

The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

"Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said.

He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said.

We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted.

"We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre. He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country". He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class. "I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya. "The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said. The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others. Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford. He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi. Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience. "This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman). "Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close. Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal. The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. "Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said. He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said. We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted. "We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added. He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Our 'NYAY' to undo the 'anyay' of Narendra Modi govt: Rahul Gandhi

"It was a political operation," said Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's officer on special duty (OSD) Praveen Kakkar, while commenting on the two-day-long raids at his residence and official premises.

"Despite the two-day-long raid, they (Income Tax Department) didn't find any document that they could seize, they didn't recover any cash or jewellery. They didn't find anything objectionable, it was a political operation," he told ANI in the early hours of Tuesday.

Raids began on Sunday morning at the residences of Kakkar in Indore and former advisor to Kamal Nath R K Miglani in Delhi, on charges of alleged tax evasion. I-T department officials conducted searches at several locations in Indore, Bhopal, Goa, and NCR.

On Monday, Kakkar's son Salil was picked up by I-T sleuths for interrogation while raids were being carried out at various locations across the country, including the residence of Ashwin Sharma, an associate of Praveen.

It is believed that Ashwin had got most of Praveen's companies registered in the name of Salil.&nbsp;

"It was a political operation," said Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's officer on special duty (OSD) Praveen Kakkar, while commenting on the two-day-long raids at his residence and official premises.

"It was a political operation," said Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's officer on special duty (OSD) Praveen Kakkar, while commenting on the two-day-long raids at his residence and official premises. "Despite the two-day-long raid, they (Income Tax Department) didn't find any document that they could seize, they didn't recover any cash or jewellery. They didn't find anything objectionable, it was a political operation," he told ANI in the early hours of Tuesday. Raids began on Sunday morning at the residences of Kakkar in Indore and former advisor to Kamal Nath R K Miglani in Delhi, on charges of alleged tax evasion. I-T department officials conducted searches at several locations in Indore, Bhopal, Goa, and NCR. On Monday, Kakkar's son Salil was picked up by I-T sleuths for interrogation while raids were being carried out at various locations across the country, including the residence of Ashwin Sharma, an associate of Praveen. It is believed that Ashwin had got most of Praveen's companies registered in the name of Salil.

It was a political operation: Kamal Nath's aid Praveen Kakkar on IT raids

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sixteen-saudis-barred-from-entering-united-states-over-khashoggi-killing-pompeo-208893">Sixteen Saudis barred from entering United States over Khashoggi killing: Pompeo</a>

The US State Department on Monday barred entry to 16 Saudi nationals over what it described as their role in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secret-service-director-randolph-alles-to-step-down-white-house-208898">US Secret Service director Randolph Alles to step down: White House</a>

The head of the US Secret Service, which guards President Donald Trump and visiting heads of state, is stepping down, the White House said Monday in the administration's latest sign of turbulence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-pass-law-to-block-no-deal-brexit-208897">British MPs pass law to block no-deal Brexit</a>

British MPs on Monday passed a new law aimed at preventing a no-deal Brexit this week by obliging the government to ask EU leaders for a delay.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-voters-to-go-to-polls-in-referendum-on-benjamin-netanyahus-record-reign-208895">Israel election: Voters to go to polls in referendum on Benjamin Netanyahu's record reign</a>

Israelis to vote in an election on Tuesday that could hand conservative Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a record fifth term or see him dethroned by an ex-general who has pledged clean government and social cohesion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-economy-out-of-crisis-phase-finance-minister-208906">Pakistan's economy out of crisis phase: Finance Minister</a>

Finance Minister Asad Umar said on Monday that Pakistan's economy was out of the crisis phase even as the cash-strapped country's economic growth is projected to slump further to 3.9 per cent in the fiscal year 2019 from 5.2 per cent in 2018.

&nbsp;

Sixteen Saudis barred from entering United States over Khashoggi killing: Pompeo The US State Department on Monday barred entry to 16 Saudi nationals over what it described as their role in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Sixteen Saudis barred from entering United States over Khashoggi killing: Pompeo The US State Department on Monday barred entry to 16 Saudi nationals over what it described as their role in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. US Secret Service director Randolph Alles to step down: White House The head of the US Secret Service, which guards President Donald Trump and visiting heads of state, is stepping down, the White House said Monday in the administration's latest sign of turbulence. British MPs pass law to block no-deal Brexit British MPs on Monday passed a new law aimed at preventing a no-deal Brexit this week by obliging the government to ask EU leaders for a delay. Israel election: Voters to go to polls in referendum on Benjamin Netanyahu's record reign Israelis to vote in an election on Tuesday that could hand conservative Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a record fifth term or see him dethroned by an ex-general who has pledged clean government and social cohesion. Pakistan's economy out of crisis phase: Finance Minister Finance Minister Asad Umar said on Monday that Pakistan's economy was out of the crisis phase even as the cash-strapped country's economic growth is projected to slump further to 3.9 per cent in the fiscal year 2019 from 5.2 per cent in 2018.

News brief: Big stories of the day

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years.

Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate.

Addressing a well-attended election rally in the temple city on the last day of campaigning for the April 11 first phase of elections, he claimed unemployment was on the rise in the state after Naidu came to power in 2014 with 2.3 lakh vacant posts not being filled.

Referring to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao's support for Special Category Status for Andhra Pradesh, Reddy said it would be easy to achieve SCS with combined efforts of 25 MPs from AP and 17 MPs from neighbouring Telangana.

"The TDP government has failed to meet all-round development of the state and welfare of the people," Reddy said, urging people to vote for his YSRCP for good governance.

Reddy also faulted some sections of the media in the state for their alleged demonstration of fake videos, photos, audio clips and pre-poll surveys to deliberately malign the image of YSRCP.

Andhra Pradesh, which is going to the polls for 175 assemblies and 25 Lok Sabha seats, is witnessing a multi-cornered contest involving the ruling TDP, YSRCP, Jana Sena of Pawan Kalyan, the Congress and the BJP.

In Tirupati, the main battle would be between two former Chairmen Bhumana Karunakara Reddy of YSRCP and Chadalavada Krishnamurthy of Jana Sena Party and ruling TDP MLA M. Suguna.

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years. Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate.

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years. Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate. Addressing a well-attended election rally in the temple city on the last day of campaigning for the April 11 first phase of elections, he claimed unemployment was on the rise in the state after Naidu came to power in 2014 with 2.3 lakh vacant posts not being filled. Referring to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao's support for Special Category Status for Andhra Pradesh, Reddy said it would be easy to achieve SCS with combined efforts of 25 MPs from AP and 17 MPs from neighbouring Telangana. "The TDP government has failed to meet all-round development of the state and welfare of the people," Reddy said, urging people to vote for his YSRCP for good governance. Reddy also faulted some sections of the media in the state for their alleged demonstration of fake videos, photos, audio clips and pre-poll surveys to deliberately malign the image of YSRCP. Andhra Pradesh, which is going to the polls for 175 assemblies and 25 Lok Sabha seats, is witnessing a multi-cornered contest involving the ruling TDP, YSRCP, Jana Sena of Pawan Kalyan, the Congress and the BJP. In Tirupati, the main battle would be between two former Chairmen Bhumana Karunakara Reddy of YSRCP and Chadalavada Krishnamurthy of Jana Sena Party and ruling TDP MLA M. Suguna.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: YSR's Jagan slams Chandrababu Naidu for ignoring needs of poor and middle class

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Tuesday claimed that the secret behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi's glow on the face is due to the makeup he applies every morning, before appearing in front of the cameras.

"Modi wakes up every morning, applies makeup or wax to get a shine on his face and sits in front of cameras," Kumaraswamy told reporters on April 7 after addressing a rally in Karnataka.

The Chief Minister further said, "But we take bath once in the morning and wash our face only the next day. Our faces do not look good on cameras. That is why even media shows only Modi."

The Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) formed an alliance and came to power in Karnataka last year after the assembly elections threw a hung verdict.

Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka will be held in two phases, April 18 and 23 for 28 parliamentary seats.

The counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Tuesday claimed that the secret behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi's glow on the face is due to the makeup he applies every morning, before appearing in front of the cameras.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Tuesday claimed that the secret behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi's glow on the face is due to the makeup he applies every morning, before appearing in front of the cameras. "Modi wakes up every morning, applies makeup or wax to get a shine on his face and sits in front of cameras," Kumaraswamy told reporters on April 7 after addressing a rally in Karnataka. The Chief Minister further said, "But we take bath once in the morning and wash our face only the next day. Our faces do not look good on cameras. That is why even media shows only Modi." The Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) formed an alliance and came to power in Karnataka last year after the assembly elections threw a hung verdict. Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka will be held in two phases, April 18 and 23 for 28 parliamentary seats. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Modi 'applies make-up' everyday to get shine on face: HD Kumaraswamy

Predictions about election results by astrologers, tarot card readers and others in media when there is a ban on broadcasting exit polls are a violation of law, the Election Commission said Monday.

The poll body's advisory comes days before the first phase of Lok Sabha elections is to be held on April 11.

The silence period, when campaigning in poll-going areas is barred, begins Tuesday evening.

"The Commission is of the view that prediction of results of elections in any form or manner by way of predictions etc by astrologers, tarot readers, political analysts or by any persons during the prohibited period is violation of the spirit of Section 126A (of the Representation of the People Act) which aims to prevent the electors of constituencies still going to polls from being influenced in their voting by such predictions about the prospects of the various political parties," the advisory read.

Electronic and print media is advised not to publish or publicise any article or programme related to the dissemination of results of exit polls during the prohibited period, it said.

The commission also reiterated its earlier advisory banning exit polls till the evening of May 19.

"Election Commission of India, in exercise of the powers under sub-section(1) of Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 has notified the period between 7.00 A.M. On 11.04.2019 (Thursday) and 6.30 P.M. On 19.05.2019 (Sunday) as the period during which conducting any exit poll and publishing or publicising the result of exit poll by means of the print or electronic media or in any other manner shall be prohibited," the advisory read.&nbsp;

Predictions about election results by astrologers, tarot card readers and others in media when there is a ban on broadcasting exit polls are a violation of law, the Election Commission said Monday.

Predictions about election results by astrologers, tarot card readers and others in media when there is a ban on broadcasting exit polls are a violation of law, the Election Commission said Monday. The poll body's advisory comes days before the first phase of Lok Sabha elections is to be held on April 11. The silence period, when campaigning in poll-going areas is barred, begins Tuesday evening. "The Commission is of the view that prediction of results of elections in any form or manner by way of predictions etc by astrologers, tarot readers, political analysts or by any persons during the prohibited period is violation of the spirit of Section 126A (of the Representation of the People Act) which aims to prevent the electors of constituencies still going to polls from being influenced in their voting by such predictions about the prospects of the various political parties," the advisory read. Electronic and print media is advised not to publish or publicise any article or programme related to the dissemination of results of exit polls during the prohibited period, it said. The commission also reiterated its earlier advisory banning exit polls till the evening of May 19. "Election Commission of India, in exercise of the powers under sub-section(1) of Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 has notified the period between 7.00 A.M. On 11.04.2019 (Thursday) and 6.30 P.M. On 19.05.2019 (Sunday) as the period during which conducting any exit poll and publishing or publicising the result of exit poll by means of the print or electronic media or in any other manner shall be prohibited," the advisory read.

Predicting results during polling period violation of law: Election Commission

The Supreme Court will Wednesday pronounce verdict on the preliminary objections raised by the Centre that the documents on which it was claiming "privilege" cannot be relied upon to re-examine the verdict in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi will pronounce the verdict.

On March 14, the apex court had reserved verdict on the preliminary objections raised by the Centre on admissibility of privileged documents annexed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie as also activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan in their review petition against the top court's December 14 judgement that dismissed all petitions against the Rafale jet deal.

"Only after we decide the preliminary objection raised by the Centre, we will go into other aspect of the review petitions," the bench said, adding that "only if we overrule the preliminary objection, we will go into other details".

The Centre had claimed privilege over documents pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal with France and said those documents cannot be considered in evidence as per Section 123 of the Indian Evidence Act.

Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre had contended that no one can produce them in the court without the permission of the department concerned as those documents are also protected under the Official Secrets Act and their disclosure is exempted under the Right to Information Act as per Section 8(1)(a).

Bhushan had contended that the Centre's objections were "mala fide and totally untenable arguments".

The top court had further noted that according to the AG's submissions "there are three Rafale documents whose publication comes under Official Secrets Act, 1923. These documents were unauthorisedly published. You claim privilege under section 123 of Evidence Act. You want us to adjudicate and strike down the review on this basis".

Bhusahn had submitted a note countering the preliminary objections raised by the centre on maintainability of the review petitions, stating that "preliminary objection are mala fide and totally untenable arguments".

He had said government cannot claim privilege over the documents which are already published and is in public domain.

Bhushan had said that Section 123 Indian Evidence Act only protected "unpublished documents".

While the Centre was making submission that the documents can be withheld from disclosure under the RTI Act in view of the national security, the top court said Section 22 of the RTI Act gave it an overriding effect over the Official Secrets Act.

It also said that under Section 24 of the RTI Act even security and intelligence establishments are not exempted from disclosing information in relation to corruption and human rights violations.

"The RTI Act brought a revolution. In 2009, your own government said file notings can be made available under the RTI. Let us not go back now," the bench has said.

Bhushan further said that provisions of the RTI Act say public interest outweighs other things and no privilege can be claimed except for documents which pertain to intelligence agencies.

He also said that there is no government-to-government contract in purchasing Rafale jets as there is no sovereign guarantee extended to India by France in the Rs 58,000 crore deal.

He had submitted why the government didn't lodge any FIR when these documents started coming out in November 2018.

He had further said that the government has itself filed a detailed CAG report regarding as many as 10 defence purchases and it is untenable on their part to now claim privilege.

The Supreme Court will Wednesday pronounce verdict on the preliminary objections raised by the Centre that the documents on which it was claiming "privilege" cannot be relied upon to re-examine the verdict in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France.

The Supreme Court will Wednesday pronounce verdict on the preliminary objections raised by the Centre that the documents on which it was claiming "privilege" cannot be relied upon to re-examine the verdict in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi will pronounce the verdict. On March 14, the apex court had reserved verdict on the preliminary objections raised by the Centre on admissibility of privileged documents annexed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie as also activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan in their review petition against the top court's December 14 judgement that dismissed all petitions against the Rafale jet deal. "Only after we decide the preliminary objection raised by the Centre, we will go into other aspect of the review petitions," the bench said, adding that "only if we overrule the preliminary objection, we will go into other details". The Centre had claimed privilege over documents pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal with France and said those documents cannot be considered in evidence as per Section 123 of the Indian Evidence Act. Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre had contended that no one can produce them in the court without the permission of the department concerned as those documents are also protected under the Official Secrets Act and their disclosure is exempted under the Right to Information Act as per Section 8(1)(a). Bhushan had contended that the Centre's objections were "mala fide and totally untenable arguments". The top court had further noted that according to the AG's submissions "there are three Rafale documents whose publication comes under Official Secrets Act, 1923. These documents were unauthorisedly published. You claim privilege under section 123 of Evidence Act. You want us to adjudicate and strike down the review on this basis". Bhusahn had submitted a note countering the preliminary objections raised by the centre on maintainability of the review petitions, stating that "preliminary objection are mala fide and totally untenable arguments". He had said government cannot claim privilege over the documents which are already published and is in public domain. Bhushan had said that Section 123 Indian Evidence Act only protected "unpublished documents". While the Centre was making submission that the documents can be withheld from disclosure under the RTI Act in view of the national security, the top court said Section 22 of the RTI Act gave it an overriding effect over the Official Secrets Act. It also said that under Section 24 of the RTI Act even security and intelligence establishments are not exempted from disclosing information in relation to corruption and human rights violations. "The RTI Act brought a revolution. In 2009, your own government said file notings can be made available under the RTI. Let us not go back now," the bench has said. Bhushan further said that provisions of the RTI Act say public interest outweighs other things and no privilege can be claimed except for documents which pertain to intelligence agencies. He also said that there is no government-to-government contract in purchasing Rafale jets as there is no sovereign guarantee extended to India by France in the Rs 58,000 crore deal. He had submitted why the government didn't lodge any FIR when these documents started coming out in November 2018. He had further said that the government has itself filed a detailed CAG report regarding as many as 10 defence purchases and it is untenable on their part to now claim privilege.

Supreme Court verdict Wednesday on Centre's preliminary objection in Rafale review pleas

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.01 crore.

The figure, mentioned in his affidavit filed along with the nomination papers, is over five times the assets of his parents, which as per MP CM Nath's affidavit stood at over Rs 124 crore.

Nakul Nath, a businessman-turned-politician, holds movable assets worth over Rs 615.93 crore while that of his wife Priya is over Rs 2.30 crore, as per the affidavit.

The value of his immovable assets is over Rs 41.77 crore while his wife does not own any immovable asset, as per the affidavit.

The affidavit stated that Nakul owned these properties in his own name as well as jointly and also through family-controlled companies and trusts. 
Nakul and Priya Nath don't own any vehicles, the affidavit stated.

He owns 896.669 grams of gold bars, 7.630 kilogrammes silver, 147.58 carat diamond and stone jewellery worth over Rs 78.45 lakh while his wife possesses over 270.322 grams gold, 161.84 carat diamond and stone jewellery valued at over Rs 57.62 lakh, the affidavit said.

As per Income Tax Return filed for the year 2017-18, Nakul Nath has shown annual income of over Rs 2.76 crore while his wife's income stood at over Rs 4.18 crore.

He also has deposits in various bank accounts and shares in firms and institutes including Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in its Dubai and Sharjah campus and Span Air Private Ltd.

The affidavit stated that Nakul and his brother jointly own a total of 7.82 acres of land in Chhindwara district.

The poll debutant also shared his five social media accounts including his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Blogger.

Nakul is contesting from Chhindwara constituency, where he is up against the BJP's Natthan Shah, a tribal leader and former MLA.

Nakul has a degree in Business Administration from Bay State College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. 
&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath's son Nakul, who Tuesday filed his nomination for the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, owns movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 660.01 crore. The figure, mentioned in his affidavit filed along with the nomination papers, is over five times the assets of his parents, which as per MP CM Nath's affidavit stood at over Rs 124 crore. Nakul Nath, a businessman-turned-politician, holds movable assets worth over Rs 615.93 crore while that of his wife Priya is over Rs 2.30 crore, as per the affidavit. The value of his immovable assets is over Rs 41.77 crore while his wife does not own any immovable asset, as per the affidavit. The affidavit stated that Nakul owned these properties in his own name as well as jointly and also through family-controlled companies and trusts. Nakul and Priya Nath don't own any vehicles, the affidavit stated. He owns 896.669 grams of gold bars, 7.630 kilogrammes silver, 147.58 carat diamond and stone jewellery worth over Rs 78.45 lakh while his wife possesses over 270.322 grams gold, 161.84 carat diamond and stone jewellery valued at over Rs 57.62 lakh, the affidavit said. As per Income Tax Return filed for the year 2017-18, Nakul Nath has shown annual income of over Rs 2.76 crore while his wife's income stood at over Rs 4.18 crore. He also has deposits in various bank accounts and shares in firms and institutes including Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in its Dubai and Sharjah campus and Span Air Private Ltd. The affidavit stated that Nakul and his brother jointly own a total of 7.82 acres of land in Chhindwara district. The poll debutant also shared his five social media accounts including his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Blogger. Nakul is contesting from Chhindwara constituency, where he is up against the BJP's Natthan Shah, a tribal leader and former MLA. Nakul has a degree in Business Administration from Bay State College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Lok Sabha poll 2019: Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath's son Nakul assets worth over Rs 660 crore

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-pak-speak-same-language-on-kashmir-related-issues-says-pm-modi-in-latur-208954">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India.

Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/national-security-is-bjps-sankalp-as-party-manifesto-vows-to-repeal-articles-370-35a-and-end-left-wing-extremism-208930">BJP's manifesto</a>.

He said the promises made in the BJP manifesto was the reason the two ruling parties joined forces ahead of the polls.

In the manifesto released Monday, the BJP has reiterated its commitment towards the construction of Ram temple and abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. It also announced a welfare scheme for farmers if voted to power.

Our government today doesn't just talk about teaching Pakistan a lesson," Thackeray said.

"Pradhan Mantri ji, our only expectation from you now is that deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains to mess (with India) again," he said.

Thackeray also attacked the Congress for alleging that the BJP manifesto repeated the NDA major's 2014 poll promises. The Sena chief said it was the Congress manifesto which was filled with lies.

He criticised Congress's 'Nyay' scheme that aims to help the poor by ensuring minimum income guarantee.

"Rahul (Gandhi) ji, the poverty eradication slogan was given by your grandmother (late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi). Your poverty vanished, but when the poverty of the poor will disappear? We will do it," Thackeray said.

On the Prime Minister's Crop Insurance Scheme, Thackeray said companies were cheating farmers and asked Modi to "straighten them".

"The insurance companies should have offices in each district (for the convenience of farmers)," he said.

In his speech, Modi called Uddhav his 'younger brother' and recalled that the Congress had 'withdrawn' citizenship of late Bal Thackeray.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the rally.

BJP-Sena alliance candidates from Latur and Osmanabad Lok Sabha seats were also present.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the BJP's manifesto.

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the BJP's manifesto. He said the promises made in the BJP manifesto was the reason the two ruling parties joined forces ahead of the polls. In the manifesto released Monday, the BJP has reiterated its commitment towards the construction of Ram temple and abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. It also announced a welfare scheme for farmers if voted to power. Our government today doesn't just talk about teaching Pakistan a lesson," Thackeray said. "Pradhan Mantri ji, our only expectation from you now is that deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains to mess (with India) again," he said. Thackeray also attacked the Congress for alleging that the BJP manifesto repeated the NDA major's 2014 poll promises. The Sena chief said it was the Congress manifesto which was filled with lies. He criticised Congress's 'Nyay' scheme that aims to help the poor by ensuring minimum income guarantee. "Rahul (Gandhi) ji, the poverty eradication slogan was given by your grandmother (late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi). Your poverty vanished, but when the poverty of the poor will disappear? We will do it," Thackeray said. On the Prime Minister's Crop Insurance Scheme, Thackeray said companies were cheating farmers and asked Modi to "straighten them". "The insurance companies should have offices in each district (for the convenience of farmers)," he said. In his speech, Modi called Uddhav his 'younger brother' and recalled that the Congress had 'withdrawn' citizenship of late Bal Thackeray. Union minister Ramdas Athawale and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the rally. BJP-Sena alliance candidates from Latur and Osmanabad Lok Sabha seats were also present.

Deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains: Uddhav Thackeray

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/national-security-is-bjps-sankalp-as-party-manifesto-vows-to-repeal-articles-370-35a-and-end-left-wing-extremism-208930">Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto</a> that was released yesterday.

Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".

"In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said.

Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it".&nbsp;

He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.”

Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;

“It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said.

When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged.

In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021.&nbsp;

Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”.&nbsp;

While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;

But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.”

Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move". "In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said. Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it". He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.” Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers. “It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said. When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged. In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021. Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”. While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers. But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.” Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.

If NDA wins they should first implement river-linking project: Rajinikanth

Curtains were drawn on the high voltage electioneering on Tuesday evening for Odisha's four Lok Sabha and 28 Assembly seats, including several naxal-hit areas, where polling is slated to be held in the first phase on April 11.

A galaxy of high profile leaders of all major political parties including BJP, Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) undertook whirlwind tours of the constituencies, mostly in south Odisha, to bolster the prospects of their candidates at the hustings.

Spearheading the campaign for BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party President Amit Shah crisscrossed the poll-bound segments addressing a host of election rallies in a bid to arm the saffron party with extra strength.

Balloting in Kalahandi, Nabarangapur, Berhampur and Koraput Lok Sabha seats and 28 Assembly segments coming under these four parliamentary constituencies will be held on April 11.

A battery of other leaders also hit the campaign trail to give steam to the BJP campaign. They included Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and many Union Ministers.

Virtually camping in the state was Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who hails from Odisha, as BJP made all out efforts to put up a formidable challenge to the BJD, which has been in power since 2000.

The Congress campaign, on the other hand, was led single-handedly by party president Rahul Gandhi who attended poll rallies in places like Koraput and Bhawanipatna besides holding special interactions with women and others. Gandhi was joined by senior leaders including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhepesh Baghel and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik.

For the ruling BJD, party president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeking a fifth term this time, geared up and undertook extensive tours of the poll-bound areas.

Besides trading charges, the national parties like Congress and BJP hit out at the BJD government in the state accusing it of having failed to ensure development in the state despite being in power for 19 years. The BJD, on its part, accused both BJP and Congress of meting out step-motherly approach towards Odisha.

Candidates left no stone unturned to woo voters by holding large rallies, street corner meetings and road shows.

As the cacophony of electioneering fell silent at 5 pm, the candidates and their supporters readied for engaging in inter-personal canvassing.

The first phase polling will decide the electoral fate of 26 candidates, including many heavyweights, who are in the fray in four Lok Sabha seats, while there are 191 candidates in 28 Assembly seats. The state has 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats.

Trying his luck at the hustings is Congress stalwart and former Union Minister Bhakta Charan Das who is crossing swords with BJP state unit president Basant Panda and BJD heavyweight and former state minister Pushpendra Singhdeo in Kalahandi Lok Sabha constituency.

Similarly, former Union Minister Chandra Sekhar Sahu is in the fray from Berhampur Lok Sabha seat where BJP has fielded its state unit general secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra.

State minister Ramesh Majhi is locking horns as a BJD nominee with state Congress working president and former MP Pradip Majhi in tribal-dominated Nabarangpur Lok Sabha seat.

Assembly election will witness high profile contest in several seats in the first phase with state minister S N Patro contesting from Digapahandi, Congress chief whip Tara Prasad Bahinipati from Jeypore and former minister Pradeep Panigrahi from Gopalpur.

The Election Commission, security forces including state Police and other officials have taken necessary steps to ensure free, fair and peaceful conduct of elections, an official said.

B K Sharma, who is DGP In-charge, said police has geared up to face challenges in to ensure peaceful conduct of elections in Maoist-affected areas many of which go to polls in the first phase.

Similarly, officials in-charge of polling duty along with security personnel have been mobilised to make arrangements for the polls in these constituencies.

More than 60 lakh voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in the first phase of polling to be held in 7,233 booths, the official said.&nbsp;

Curtains were drawn on the high voltage electioneering on Tuesday evening for Odisha's four Lok Sabha and 28 Assembly seats, including several naxal-hit areas, where polling is slated to be held in the first phase on April 11.

Curtains were drawn on the high voltage electioneering on Tuesday evening for Odisha's four Lok Sabha and 28 Assembly seats, including several naxal-hit areas, where polling is slated to be held in the first phase on April 11. A galaxy of high profile leaders of all major political parties including BJP, Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) undertook whirlwind tours of the constituencies, mostly in south Odisha, to bolster the prospects of their candidates at the hustings. Spearheading the campaign for BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party President Amit Shah crisscrossed the poll-bound segments addressing a host of election rallies in a bid to arm the saffron party with extra strength. Balloting in Kalahandi, Nabarangapur, Berhampur and Koraput Lok Sabha seats and 28 Assembly segments coming under these four parliamentary constituencies will be held on April 11. A battery of other leaders also hit the campaign trail to give steam to the BJP campaign. They included Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and many Union Ministers. Virtually camping in the state was Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who hails from Odisha, as BJP made all out efforts to put up a formidable challenge to the BJD, which has been in power since 2000. The Congress campaign, on the other hand, was led single-handedly by party president Rahul Gandhi who attended poll rallies in places like Koraput and Bhawanipatna besides holding special interactions with women and others. Gandhi was joined by senior leaders including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhepesh Baghel and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik. For the ruling BJD, party president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeking a fifth term this time, geared up and undertook extensive tours of the poll-bound areas. Besides trading charges, the national parties like Congress and BJP hit out at the BJD government in the state accusing it of having failed to ensure development in the state despite being in power for 19 years. The BJD, on its part, accused both BJP and Congress of meting out step-motherly approach towards Odisha. Candidates left no stone unturned to woo voters by holding large rallies, street corner meetings and road shows. As the cacophony of electioneering fell silent at 5 pm, the candidates and their supporters readied for engaging in inter-personal canvassing. The first phase polling will decide the electoral fate of 26 candidates, including many heavyweights, who are in the fray in four Lok Sabha seats, while there are 191 candidates in 28 Assembly seats. The state has 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats. Trying his luck at the hustings is Congress stalwart and former Union Minister Bhakta Charan Das who is crossing swords with BJP state unit president Basant Panda and BJD heavyweight and former state minister Pushpendra Singhdeo in Kalahandi Lok Sabha constituency. Similarly, former Union Minister Chandra Sekhar Sahu is in the fray from Berhampur Lok Sabha seat where BJP has fielded its state unit general secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra. State minister Ramesh Majhi is locking horns as a BJD nominee with state Congress working president and former MP Pradip Majhi in tribal-dominated Nabarangpur Lok Sabha seat. Assembly election will witness high profile contest in several seats in the first phase with state minister S N Patro contesting from Digapahandi, Congress chief whip Tara Prasad Bahinipati from Jeypore and former minister Pradeep Panigrahi from Gopalpur. The Election Commission, security forces including state Police and other officials have taken necessary steps to ensure free, fair and peaceful conduct of elections, an official said. B K Sharma, who is DGP In-charge, said police has geared up to face challenges in to ensure peaceful conduct of elections in Maoist-affected areas many of which go to polls in the first phase. Similarly, officials in-charge of polling duty along with security personnel have been mobilised to make arrangements for the polls in these constituencies. More than 60 lakh voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in the first phase of polling to be held in 7,233 booths, the official said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: High voltage campaigning for first phase election ends

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