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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/17-minutes-of-carnage-how-new-zealand-gunman-broadcast-his-killings-on-facebook-203719">17 minutes of carnage: How New Zealand gunman broadcast his killings on Facebook</a>

A gunman who killed 49 people at two New Zealand mosques live-streamed the attacks on Facebook for 17 minutes using an app designed for extreme sports enthusiasts, with copies still being shared on social media hours later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/controversial-australian-senator-egged-after-new-zealand-shootings-statement-203716">Watch: Controversial Australian senator egged after New Zealand shootings statement</a>

An Australian senator, who made controversial comments about the New Zealand mosque shootings yesterday, punched a 17-year-old boy after he was egged at an event in Melbourne on Saturday.

Senator Fraser Anning, who has a history of racist comments, was egged at a news conference and proceeded to physically assault the person who egged him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-us-afghanistan-should-have-an-elected-political-structure-post-us-withdrawal-203699">India to </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-us-afghanistan-should-have-an-elected-political-structure-post-us-withdrawal-203699">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-us-afghanistan-should-have-an-elected-political-structure-post-us-withdrawal-203699">: Afghanistan should have an elected 'political structure' post US withdrawal</a>

India recently told the US that an elected political structure should remain in place post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was in Washington last week, met United State's special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad during which both discussed the peace process in strife-torn, landlocked South Asian country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-man-dies-trying-to-overpower-new-zealand-mosque-attacker-203728">Pakistani man dies trying to overpower New Zealand mosque attacker</a>

Two Pakistani nationals were killed in the terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand and one of them died while he was attempting to stop the shooter during the attack, according to a media report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-spo-khushboo-jan-shot-dead-by-terrorists-in-shopian-district-203721">Jammu &amp; Kashmir: SPO shot dead by terrorists in Shopian district</a>

A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists at her home in Vehil village following which she was shifted to a hospital for treatment. Later, she succumbed to critical wounds.

17 minutes of carnage: How New Zealand gunman broadcast his killings on Facebook A gunman who killed 49 people at two New Zealand mosques live-streamed the attacks on Facebook for 17 minutes using an app designed for extreme sports enthusiasts, with copies still being shared on social media hours later.

17 minutes of carnage: How New Zealand gunman broadcast his killings on Facebook A gunman who killed 49 people at two New Zealand mosques live-streamed the attacks on Facebook for 17 minutes using an app designed for extreme sports enthusiasts, with copies still being shared on social media hours later. Watch: Controversial Australian senator egged after New Zealand shootings statement An Australian senator, who made controversial comments about the New Zealand mosque shootings yesterday, punched a 17-year-old boy after he was egged at an event in Melbourne on Saturday. Senator Fraser Anning, who has a history of racist comments, was egged at a news conference and proceeded to physically assault the person who egged him. India to US: Afghanistan should have an elected 'political structure' post US withdrawal India recently told the US that an elected political structure should remain in place post-US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was in Washington last week, met United State's special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad during which both discussed the peace process in strife-torn, landlocked South Asian country. Pakistani man dies trying to overpower New Zealand mosque attacker Two Pakistani nationals were killed in the terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand and one of them died while he was attempting to stop the shooter during the attack, according to a media report. Jammu & Kashmir: SPO shot dead by terrorists in Shopian district A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian on Saturday afternoon. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists at her home in Vehil village following which she was shifted to a hospital for treatment. Later, she succumbed to critical wounds.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A number of members of the US Congress raised the issue of India signing a deal with Russia for a nuclear submarine last week during&nbsp;Foreign Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-begins-three-day-visit-to-us-likely-to-meet-pompeo-202507">Vijay Gokhale</a>&nbsp;recent visit to Washington&nbsp;official sources said on Saturday. 
 
Gokhale clarified that India finalided the deal for the leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia and it was not an acquisition or a purchase, they said. 
 
However, the issue was not raised by the US administration during Gokhale's three-day visit to Washington earlier this week. 
 
Some members of the Congress raised the issue as they have some mis-perception about it, the sources said, adding Gokhale also explained to them that the submarine will only have conventional weapons. 
 
In January, the US announced sanctions against Russia under which Washington can punish countries and entities engaged in a transaction with defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. 
 
The sanctions were imposed for Moscow's alleged meddling in the US presidential election in 2016.&nbsp; 
 
On March 7, India sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for the leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years. 
 
In October last year, India inked an agreement with Russia to procure a batch of the missile systems at a cost of Rs 40,000 crore. India went ahead with the deal notwithstanding the US's warnings against it.&nbsp; 
 
Under the deal for submarine, Russia will have to deliver an Akula class submarine, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025. 
 
It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy. 
 
The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine -- christened INS Chakra -- was taken in 1988 under a three-year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years.

A number of members of the US Congress raised the issue of India signing a deal with Russia for a nuclear submarine last week during Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale recent visit to Washington official sources said on Saturday.

A number of members of the US Congress raised the issue of India signing a deal with Russia for a nuclear submarine last week during Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale recent visit to Washington official sources said on Saturday. Gokhale clarified that India finalided the deal for the leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia and it was not an acquisition or a purchase, they said. However, the issue was not raised by the US administration during Gokhale's three-day visit to Washington earlier this week. Some members of the Congress raised the issue as they have some mis-perception about it, the sources said, adding Gokhale also explained to them that the submarine will only have conventional weapons. In January, the US announced sanctions against Russia under which Washington can punish countries and entities engaged in a transaction with defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. The sanctions were imposed for Moscow's alleged meddling in the US presidential election in 2016. On March 7, India sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for the leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years. In October last year, India inked an agreement with Russia to procure a batch of the missile systems at a cost of Rs 40,000 crore. India went ahead with the deal notwithstanding the US's warnings against it. Under the deal for submarine, Russia will have to deliver an Akula class submarine, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025. It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy. The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine -- christened INS Chakra -- was taken in 1988 under a three-year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years.

Some members of US Congress raise India's submarine deal with Russia: Sources

A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists at her home in Vehil village following which she was shifted to a hospital for treatment. Later, she succumbed to critical wounds.

Following her killing, a large contingent of security forces has been deployed in the area to nab the attackers.

''We condemn this gruesome terror act and stand by her family at this critical juncture. Separately, police have registered a case and initiated investigation in the matter,'' J&amp;K police said in a statement.&nbsp;

SPOs are the lowest ranking officers in the police force and have become a frequent target of the terrorists, particularly in south Kashmir.

A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian on Saturday afternoon. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists at her home in Vehil village following which she was shifted to a hospital for treatment.

A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian on Saturday afternoon. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists at her home in Vehil village following which she was shifted to a hospital for treatment. Later, she succumbed to critical wounds. Following her killing, a large contingent of security forces has been deployed in the area to nab the attackers. ''We condemn this gruesome terror act and stand by her family at this critical juncture. Separately, police have registered a case and initiated investigation in the matter,'' J&K police said in a statement. SPOs are the lowest ranking officers in the police force and have become a frequent target of the terrorists, particularly in south Kashmir.

Jammu & Kashmir: SPO shot dead by terrorists in Shopian district

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people.

The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said.

He said four youths, who were on their way out from the bar at Hari Niwas, fired gunshots in the air outside the hotel late Friday night. Later they fled from the spot in an SUV and a motorcycle.

A case was registered under various sections of the Ranbir Penal Code, including 366 (endangering life or personal safety of others), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 34 ( acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and under the Arms Act and, the spokesman said.

He said a police party worked on different leads, tracked and arrested three of the accused, who have been identified as Ishant Raina, Vivek Singh and Manik Nayat.

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people. The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said.

Police said three youths were arrested Saturday for allegedly firing gunshots in the air outside Hari Niwas Palace here creating panic among people. The search for their another accomplice is underway, a police spokesman said. He said four youths, who were on their way out from the bar at Hari Niwas, fired gunshots in the air outside the hotel late Friday night. Later they fled from the spot in an SUV and a motorcycle. A case was registered under various sections of the Ranbir Penal Code, including 366 (endangering life or personal safety of others), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 34 ( acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and under the Arms Act and, the spokesman said. He said a police party worked on different leads, tracked and arrested three of the accused, who have been identified as Ishant Raina, Vivek Singh and Manik Nayat.

Three arrested for firing gunshots in air in Jammu

An encounter broke out Saturday between terrorists and security forces in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

A brief exchange of fire took place between the forces and the ultras in Kulgam in south Kashmir, a police official said.

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Jammu and Kashmir Police: Brief exchange of fire at Kulgam; area under cordon. Details shall follow. <a href="https://t.co/5YkKzAzIal">pic.twitter.com/5YkKzAzIal</a>
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He said the area has been cordoned off and searches were being carried out to track the terrorists.

So far, there has been no report of any casualty, he said.&nbsp;

Further details are awaited.

An encounter broke out Saturday between terrorists and security forces in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said. A brief exchange of fire took place between the forces and the ultras in Kulgam in south Kashmir, a police official said.

An encounter broke out Saturday between terrorists and security forces in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said. A brief exchange of fire took place between the forces and the ultras in Kulgam in south Kashmir, a police official said. Jammu and Kashmir Police: Brief exchange of fire at Kulgam; area under cordon. Details shall follow. pic.twitter.com/5YkKzAzIal — ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 × He said the area has been cordoned off and searches were being carried out to track the terrorists. So far, there has been no report of any casualty, he said. Further details are awaited.

Jammu & Kashmir: Encounter breaks out in Kulgam district 

Northern army commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, visited forward posts in Western Ladakh to review operational preparedness in the sector.&nbsp;

Army commander along with senior officers interacted with troops deployed on the Line of Control (LoC) and complimented them for the high standard of professionalism displayed by them, despite the terrain and weather challenge.

The temperature hits very low during the winter in Ladakh and it becomes difficult to carry out day to day activities in the region as the road which connects Kargil and Ladakh from Kashmir remains shut for months as high snow accumulates on the ground.&nbsp;

“He urged them to continue to discharge their duty with the same tenacity and resolve,” a statement released by the Indian army said.&nbsp;

Singh also paid homage at the Kargil War Memorial along with Lt Gen YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding, Fire &amp; Fury Corps.

Northern army commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, visited forward posts in Western Ladakh to review operational preparedness in the sector. Army commander along with senior officers interacted with troops deployed on the Line of Control (LoC) and complimented them for the high standard of professionalism displayed by them, despite the terrain and weather challenge.

Northern army commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, visited forward posts in Western Ladakh to review operational preparedness in the sector. Army commander along with senior officers interacted with troops deployed on the Line of Control (LoC) and complimented them for the high standard of professionalism displayed by them, despite the terrain and weather challenge. The temperature hits very low during the winter in Ladakh and it becomes difficult to carry out day to day activities in the region as the road which connects Kargil and Ladakh from Kashmir remains shut for months as high snow accumulates on the ground. “He urged them to continue to discharge their duty with the same tenacity and resolve,” a statement released by the Indian army said. Singh also paid homage at the Kargil War Memorial along with Lt Gen YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding, Fire & Fury Corps.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh visits forward posts in Ladakh

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Yogi Adityanath</a> Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference'&nbsp;to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'. 
 
'The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. 
 
'Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP),' he told PTI. 
 
Adityanath also claimed that the 'fledgeling'&nbsp;SP-BSP alliance is already 'embroiled in dispute'. 
 
'The newfound alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm),'&nbsp;he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference' to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference' to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'. 'The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. 'Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP),' he told PTI. Adityanath also claimed that the 'fledgeling' SP-BSP alliance is already 'embroiled in dispute'. 'The newfound alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm),' he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday.

Priyanka Vadra will make no difference to BJP's poll prospects in UP: Yogi Adityanath

A Delhi Court on Saturday directed the Tihar jail authorities to submit CCTV&nbsp;footage containing visuals from February 13 to 17&nbsp;of jail number 7 where AgustaWestland accused 'middleman' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/met-rakesh-asthana-in-dubai-he-threatened-to-make-my-life-hell-christian-michel-tells-delhi-court-202888">Christian Michel</a> is lodged to ascertain allegations of torture and humiliation levelled by Michel.

The matter will be next heard on March 19.

On March 11, the Delhi court sought a reply from the Director General (DG) of Prison seeking directions to shift the accused from the high-security cell to a normal cell, after he contended that he had been kept in an isolation ward with Kashmiri terrorists and 160 other high-risk prisoners.

To rubbish the allegations put forth by the accused, Tihar jail authorities, on March 14, produced CCTV footage from March 8th to 12th before the court.

In its reply to the court, the Tihar Jail authorities denying all the charges said that Michel has been granted all the facilities in accordance with the jail manual.

Showing a hard disk to the court containing the CCTV footage, the law officer said, ''The footage shows that he has been allowed to walk, access canteen and also meet other inmates.''

Law officer of the jail also handed over a list of facilities being provided to Michel in a single cell in the jail. ''This is not isolation as he goes out to eat and is allowed to meet other inmates,'' the authorities said.

Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh told the court, ''He is a foreigner brought through extradition. This is a responsibility of the country to ensure his security as per the treaty.''

Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal.

A Delhi Court on Saturday directed the Tihar jail authorities to submit CCTV footage containing visuals from February 13 to 17 of jail number 7 where AgustaWestland accused 'middleman' Christian Michel is lodged to ascertain allegations of torture and humiliation levelled by Michel.

A Delhi Court on Saturday directed the Tihar jail authorities to submit CCTV footage containing visuals from February 13 to 17 of jail number 7 where AgustaWestland accused 'middleman' Christian Michel is lodged to ascertain allegations of torture and humiliation levelled by Michel. The matter will be next heard on March 19. On March 11, the Delhi court sought a reply from the Director General (DG) of Prison seeking directions to shift the accused from the high-security cell to a normal cell, after he contended that he had been kept in an isolation ward with Kashmiri terrorists and 160 other high-risk prisoners. To rubbish the allegations put forth by the accused, Tihar jail authorities, on March 14, produced CCTV footage from March 8th to 12th before the court. In its reply to the court, the Tihar Jail authorities denying all the charges said that Michel has been granted all the facilities in accordance with the jail manual. Showing a hard disk to the court containing the CCTV footage, the law officer said, ''The footage shows that he has been allowed to walk, access canteen and also meet other inmates.'' Law officer of the jail also handed over a list of facilities being provided to Michel in a single cell in the jail. ''This is not isolation as he goes out to eat and is allowed to meet other inmates,'' the authorities said. Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh told the court, ''He is a foreigner brought through extradition. This is a responsibility of the country to ensure his security as per the treaty.'' Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal.

Delhi Court asks Tihar authorities for Christian Michel's prison footage

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border. New Delhi has expressed its disappointment at Pakistan's proposal of paid pilgrimage to visit Kartarpur corridor.

In response to the Indian proposal of allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-hype-on-kartarpur-pakistan-wants-restrictions-on-movement-of-pilgrims-203613">5,000 pilgrims per day for visit to corridor</a>, which New Delhi wants to be open on all seven days, Pakistan has said it can only allow 700 pilgrims in a batch of 15 on a designated day by getting a paid permit.

Sources told WION that the initial announcement made by PM Imran Khan gave an impression that this was a generous, open-ended offer but the perceived generosity was not matched by the discussions in the recent meeting.&nbsp;

The next round of Karatrpur talks will take place on April 2 in Wagah.

Reacting to a query on 'referendum 2020' by Khalistani groups based in Pakistan, US and UK, a government source told WION that India has conveyed to foreign governments that their citizens talking about a referendum in another country amounts to interfering in the internal affair of another country.&nbsp;

India maintained that the issue is raised by a very small part of the Sikh community and the noise made by them does not represent the view of the entire community.

Pakistan has been indulging in Khalistani propaganda. The source, while speaking to WION, highlighted the fact that Khalistani Gopal Chawla was present at Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking inaugural ceremony in November 2018 in Pakistan.

Gopal Singh Chawla has had a very close relationship with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Chawla, on multiple occasions, has released videos threatening India with violence.

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border.

India has said Pakistan had very narrow focus during the first round of Kartarpur talks which took place on February 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagha border. New Delhi has expressed its disappointment at Pakistan's proposal of paid pilgrimage to visit Kartarpur corridor. In response to the Indian proposal of allowing 5,000 pilgrims per day for visit to corridor, which New Delhi wants to be open on all seven days, Pakistan has said it can only allow 700 pilgrims in a batch of 15 on a designated day by getting a paid permit. Sources told WION that the initial announcement made by PM Imran Khan gave an impression that this was a generous, open-ended offer but the perceived generosity was not matched by the discussions in the recent meeting. The next round of Karatrpur talks will take place on April 2 in Wagah. Reacting to a query on 'referendum 2020' by Khalistani groups based in Pakistan, US and UK, a government source told WION that India has conveyed to foreign governments that their citizens talking about a referendum in another country amounts to interfering in the internal affair of another country. India maintained that the issue is raised by a very small part of the Sikh community and the noise made by them does not represent the view of the entire community. Pakistan has been indulging in Khalistani propaganda. The source, while speaking to WION, highlighted the fact that Khalistani Gopal Chawla was present at Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking inaugural ceremony in November 2018 in Pakistan. Gopal Singh Chawla has had a very close relationship with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Chawla, on multiple occasions, has released videos threatening India with violence.

Pakistan had limited, narrow focus during Kartarpur talks: India

The morning after the deck of a foot overbridge outside CSMT station collapsed, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405">killing six people and leaving 31 injured</a>, the Brihnamumbai Municipal Corporation chief will chair a meeting to decide on the future course of action for the structure.

A BMC spokesperson said civic commissioner Ajoy Mehta will meet Road and Bride department officials Friday and then take a call on dismantling the entire FOB.

On Friday morning, the BMC kept the busy DN Road blocked as part of the post-collapse safety stipulations and civic staff went about dismantling the entire deck of the FOB.

"DN Road (on which the FOB stood) has been blocked as a precautionary measure. BMC commissioner Mehta has called a meeting on this to decide on its re-opening," another civic official said.

He added that the FOB was found structurally safe when it was audited in August 2016, soon after a British-era bridge over Savitri River got washed away in monsoon downpour in Mahad in Raigad district.

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis after meeting those injured in footover bridge collapse in Mumbai: There are around 10 injured admitted in the ward, one in ICU; all out of danger now. High-level enquiry will be done to probe into the matter. FIR has been lodged. <a href="https://t.co/gBgsukeKe2">pic.twitter.com/gBgsukeKe2</a>
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"During that audit, 354 bridges were checked for their structural soundness. The FOB that collapsed on Thursday was marked C2B. This means it needed minor repairs only. Tenders were floated for the repair but it got held up," the official said.

"We will investigate whether the tender was held up by the BMC Standing Committee or the Road and Bridge department," he said.

Among the deceased, Apoorva Prabhu, Ranjana Tambe and Bhakti Shinde were nurses working in GT Hospital about half a kilometre away from the FOB. Others who died in the collapse were Zahid Shiraj Khan (32), Tapendra Singh (28) and Mohan, officials said.

Among the injured was Atmaram Yedge (32) who sold bananas on the FOB. He has received injuries to his head, back and arms.

Activists, meanwhile, said strict action should be taken against errant officials and those who had audited the overbridge and found it "safe".

Subhash Gupta, president of Rail Yatri Parishad said, "The days of blame game should be over now. Action should be taken against the auditors who certified this FOB structurally safe."

He also said that Central Railway, which has said the FOB belongs to the civic body, cannot wash its hands off the episode as the bridge was used by railway passengers.

"If accountability is not fixed, such incidents will keep taking place. The average Mumbaikars does not care whose job it was to keep the bridge safe," Congress leader Milind Deora said.

Suhas Pandey, a relative of a person injured in the incident, demanded to fix of accountability at the highest level.

"BMC commissioner Ajoy Mehta must be booked for this incident," he said.

He also hit out at politicians visiting the injured in hospitals, alleging that they were doing it for publicity.

Criminal lawyer Tanveer Nizam called it a case of negligence and said the concerned officials should be held responsible for the deaths in the incident.

A case has been registered against officials of Central Railway and the BMC in connection with the incident, police said Thursday.

"We have registered an offence under section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the IPC at the Azad Maidan police station," Manjunath Singe, Mumbai police spokesperson, had said hours after the incident.&nbsp;

The morning after the deck of a foot overbridge outside CSMT station collapsed, killing six people and leaving 31 injured, the Brihnamumbai Municipal Corporation chief will chair a meeting to decide on the future course of action for the structure.

The morning after the deck of a foot overbridge outside CSMT station collapsed, killing six people and leaving 31 injured, the Brihnamumbai Municipal Corporation chief will chair a meeting to decide on the future course of action for the structure. A BMC spokesperson said civic commissioner Ajoy Mehta will meet Road and Bride department officials Friday and then take a call on dismantling the entire FOB. On Friday morning, the BMC kept the busy DN Road blocked as part of the post-collapse safety stipulations and civic staff went about dismantling the entire deck of the FOB. "DN Road (on which the FOB stood) has been blocked as a precautionary measure. BMC commissioner Mehta has called a meeting on this to decide on its re-opening," another civic official said. He added that the FOB was found structurally safe when it was audited in August 2016, soon after a British-era bridge over Savitri River got washed away in monsoon downpour in Mahad in Raigad district. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis after meeting those injured in footover bridge collapse in Mumbai: There are around 10 injured admitted in the ward, one in ICU; all out of danger now. High-level enquiry will be done to probe into the matter. FIR has been lodged. pic.twitter.com/gBgsukeKe2 — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2019 × "During that audit, 354 bridges were checked for their structural soundness. The FOB that collapsed on Thursday was marked C2B. This means it needed minor repairs only. Tenders were floated for the repair but it got held up," the official said. "We will investigate whether the tender was held up by the BMC Standing Committee or the Road and Bridge department," he said. Among the deceased, Apoorva Prabhu, Ranjana Tambe and Bhakti Shinde were nurses working in GT Hospital about half a kilometre away from the FOB. Others who died in the collapse were Zahid Shiraj Khan (32), Tapendra Singh (28) and Mohan, officials said. Among the injured was Atmaram Yedge (32) who sold bananas on the FOB. He has received injuries to his head, back and arms. Activists, meanwhile, said strict action should be taken against errant officials and those who had audited the overbridge and found it "safe". Subhash Gupta, president of Rail Yatri Parishad said, "The days of blame game should be over now. Action should be taken against the auditors who certified this FOB structurally safe." He also said that Central Railway, which has said the FOB belongs to the civic body, cannot wash its hands off the episode as the bridge was used by railway passengers. "If accountability is not fixed, such incidents will keep taking place. The average Mumbaikars does not care whose job it was to keep the bridge safe," Congress leader Milind Deora said. Suhas Pandey, a relative of a person injured in the incident, demanded to fix of accountability at the highest level. "BMC commissioner Ajoy Mehta must be booked for this incident," he said. He also hit out at politicians visiting the injured in hospitals, alleging that they were doing it for publicity. Criminal lawyer Tanveer Nizam called it a case of negligence and said the concerned officials should be held responsible for the deaths in the incident. A case has been registered against officials of Central Railway and the BMC in connection with the incident, police said Thursday. "We have registered an offence under section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the IPC at the Azad Maidan police station," Manjunath Singe, Mumbai police spokesperson, had said hours after the incident.

Mumbai bridge collapse: BMC to decide on dismantling structure

The Supreme Friday sought the CBI's response on a plea of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav seeking bail in three cases related to the multi-crore fodder scam.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to respond in two weeks on Yadav's plea challenging the January 10 verdict of the Jharkhand High Court rejecting bail to him in these cases.

Yadav is lodged in the Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi, Jharkhand.

The over Rs 900 crore fodder scam relates to fraudulent withdrawal of money from treasuries in the Animal Husbandry department in the early 1990s when Bihar and Jharkhand were one state and the RJD was in power with Yadav the chief minister.

The Supreme Friday sought the CBI's response on a plea of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav seeking bail in three cases related to the multi-crore fodder scam. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to respond in two weeks on Yadav's plea challenging the January 10 verdict of the Jharkhand High Court rejecting bail to him in these cases.

The Supreme Friday sought the CBI's response on a plea of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav seeking bail in three cases related to the multi-crore fodder scam. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to respond in two weeks on Yadav's plea challenging the January 10 verdict of the Jharkhand High Court rejecting bail to him in these cases. Yadav is lodged in the Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The over Rs 900 crore fodder scam relates to fraudulent withdrawal of money from treasuries in the Animal Husbandry department in the early 1990s when Bihar and Jharkhand were one state and the RJD was in power with Yadav the chief minister.

Fodder scam: SC seeks CBI response on Lalu Yadav's bail plea

National Investigation Agency on Friday issued fresh summons to separatist Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Naseem Geelani, the son of another separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, to be present here for questioning on March 18 and 19 in connection with a terror funding case.

The move comes amidst the government crackdown on separatist leaders in Kashmir in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.

Earlier this month, the NIA had carried out searches at seven locations of separatists in Kashmir, including that of Mirwaiz in connection with the said case.

The agency claimed to have recovered several incriminating documents, including letterheads of different terrorist organisations as well as high-end communication systems, during the raid.

During the searches, the teams also recovered electronic devices including laptops, e-tablets, mobile phones, pen drives, communication system, and DVRs.&nbsp;

National Investigation Agency on Friday issued fresh summons to separatist Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Naseem Geelani, the son of another separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, to be present here for questioning on March 18 and 19 in connection with a terror funding case.

National Investigation Agency on Friday issued fresh summons to separatist Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Naseem Geelani, the son of another separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, to be present here for questioning on March 18 and 19 in connection with a terror funding case. The move comes amidst the government crackdown on separatist leaders in Kashmir in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. Earlier this month, the NIA had carried out searches at seven locations of separatists in Kashmir, including that of Mirwaiz in connection with the said case. The agency claimed to have recovered several incriminating documents, including letterheads of different terrorist organisations as well as high-end communication systems, during the raid. During the searches, the teams also recovered electronic devices including laptops, e-tablets, mobile phones, pen drives, communication system, and DVRs.

NIA issues fresh summons to Mirwaiz Umar, Naseem Geelani

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur.

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“फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। 
 
अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती <a href="https://twitter.com/AnupriyaSPatel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnupriyaSPatel</a> जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। <a href="https://t.co/kBbuAyBs7m">pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1106495389106999296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties.

With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said.&nbsp;

Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats.

In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur. “फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती @AnupriyaSPatel जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 15, 2019 × Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties. With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said. Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats. In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

Lok Sabha polls: BJP seals alliance with Apna Dal (S), give 2 seats

The Indian Air Force carried out a major readiness exercise last night over Punjab and Jammu in which a large number of fighter aircraft participated.&nbsp;

During the exercise, Indian Air Force (IAF) jets, including frontline aircraft, flew at supersonic speeds in the border districts including Amritsar in Punjab, sources said here.

The reason for carrying out the combat drill was to be prepared for thwarting any misadventure by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to intrude into the Indian air space, they said.

The IAF has been on a high alert ever since it carried out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-counter-terrorism-strike-on-jem-camp-in-pakistan-achieved-its-objective-says-india-202145">air strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in Balakot town</a> of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunwa province on February 26.

A couple of days ago, two PAF fighter jets flew at supersonic speeds over Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir around 10 kilometres from the Line of Control in the Poonch sector.

After the PAF started flying its planes close to Indian borders and were detected and monitored closely by the air defence network, the Indian fighter plane fleet was also ready to respond to them.

The IAF had an edge over the adversary in the aerial combat as its vintage MiG-21 fighter flown by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-cm-seeks-param-vir-chakra-for-abhinandan-varthaman-202009">Wing&nbsp;Commander Abhinandan Varthaman</a> shot down a modern F-16D fighter plane of the PAF in a beyond-visual-range fight.

The IAF also managed to thwart the PAF attack on Indian Army positions on February 27 after India targeted non-military positions a day earlier.&nbsp;

During the February 26 air strikes also, the PAF F-16s had to return gauging the enormity of the IAF attack with 12 Mirages.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force carried out a major readiness exercise last night over Punjab and Jammu in which a large number of fighter aircraft participated. During the exercise, Indian Air Force (IAF) jets, including frontline aircraft, flew at supersonic speeds in the border districts including Amritsar in Punjab, sources said here.

The Indian Air Force carried out a major readiness exercise last night over Punjab and Jammu in which a large number of fighter aircraft participated. During the exercise, Indian Air Force (IAF) jets, including frontline aircraft, flew at supersonic speeds in the border districts including Amritsar in Punjab, sources said here. The reason for carrying out the combat drill was to be prepared for thwarting any misadventure by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to intrude into the Indian air space, they said. The IAF has been on a high alert ever since it carried out air strikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in Balakot town of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunwa province on February 26. A couple of days ago, two PAF fighter jets flew at supersonic speeds over Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir around 10 kilometres from the Line of Control in the Poonch sector. After the PAF started flying its planes close to Indian borders and were detected and monitored closely by the air defence network, the Indian fighter plane fleet was also ready to respond to them. The IAF had an edge over the adversary in the aerial combat as its vintage MiG-21 fighter flown by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a modern F-16D fighter plane of the PAF in a beyond-visual-range fight. The IAF also managed to thwart the PAF attack on Indian Army positions on February 27 after India targeted non-military positions a day earlier. During the February 26 air strikes also, the PAF F-16s had to return gauging the enormity of the IAF attack with 12 Mirages.

IAF carries out major readiness exercise along Pak border

Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta on Friday suspended two civic engineers and ordered an inquiry against them in connection with the foot <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-bridge-collapse-bmc-to-decide-on-dismantling-structure-203465">overbridge collapse incident</a> which claimed six lives.

He also ordered a departmental inquiry against the two engineers besides an executive engineer and two retired chief engineers of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

The official gave the directions following an inquiry conducted into the incident by the chief engineer (vigilance).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai foot overbridge collapse: Death toll rises to six, CM Fadnavis calls for </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405">high-level</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405"> inquiry</a>

Executive engineer AR Patil, who had supervised the structural audit of the bridge in 2017-18, and assistant engineer S F Kakulte who had supervised its repair works in 2013-14, were suspended and a full-fledged departmental probe ordered against them, an official said.

Mehta also ordered a departmental inquiry against former chief engineer (bridges) S O Kori and former deputy chief engineer R B Tare--both retired.

The inquiry report said these four officers were responsible for poor supervision of the structural audit in 2017-18.

Charges will be framed against the officers accordingly, the official added.

Mehta also ordered that an FIR is lodged against structural auditor Prof D D Desai's Associated Engineering Consultants &amp; Analysts Pvt Ltd for irresponsibly carrying out the structural audit "that led to the collapse of the bridge and loss of human lives".

He also directed that the auditor is removed from the empanelled list of structural auditors of the BMC with immediate effect.

"All payments pending to be made to this structural auditor be stopped and for any payments made earlier, due process of recovery be started," the order issued by Mehta said.

Mehta also asked the authorities to withdraw other ongoing works allotted to the firm with immediate effect and directed that prior auditing works done by the firm should again be audited through a different structural audit company.

The report submitted by the chief engineer (vigilance) mentioned that structural audit was not carried out correctly and major lapses were found.

"The audit was conducted in an irresponsible manner and the auditor did not raise any alarm for anticipated failure of structural members and not recommended any specific need for repairs," it said.

Six persons were killed and 31 injured after a section of the foot overbridge near a busy train station in south Mumbai collapsed during evening rush hour on Thursday.&nbsp;

Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta on Friday suspended two civic engineers and ordered an inquiry against them in connection with the foot overbridge collapse incident which claimed six lives.

Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta on Friday suspended two civic engineers and ordered an inquiry against them in connection with the foot overbridge collapse incident which claimed six lives. He also ordered a departmental inquiry against the two engineers besides an executive engineer and two retired chief engineers of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The official gave the directions following an inquiry conducted into the incident by the chief engineer (vigilance). Also read: Mumbai foot overbridge collapse: Death toll rises to six, CM Fadnavis calls for high-level inquiry Executive engineer AR Patil, who had supervised the structural audit of the bridge in 2017-18, and assistant engineer S F Kakulte who had supervised its repair works in 2013-14, were suspended and a full-fledged departmental probe ordered against them, an official said. Mehta also ordered a departmental inquiry against former chief engineer (bridges) S O Kori and former deputy chief engineer R B Tare--both retired. The inquiry report said these four officers were responsible for poor supervision of the structural audit in 2017-18. Charges will be framed against the officers accordingly, the official added. Mehta also ordered that an FIR is lodged against structural auditor Prof D D Desai's Associated Engineering Consultants & Analysts Pvt Ltd for irresponsibly carrying out the structural audit "that led to the collapse of the bridge and loss of human lives". He also directed that the auditor is removed from the empanelled list of structural auditors of the BMC with immediate effect. "All payments pending to be made to this structural auditor be stopped and for any payments made earlier, due process of recovery be started," the order issued by Mehta said. Mehta also asked the authorities to withdraw other ongoing works allotted to the firm with immediate effect and directed that prior auditing works done by the firm should again be audited through a different structural audit company. The report submitted by the chief engineer (vigilance) mentioned that structural audit was not carried out correctly and major lapses were found. "The audit was conducted in an irresponsible manner and the auditor did not raise any alarm for anticipated failure of structural members and not recommended any specific need for repairs," it said. Six persons were killed and 31 injured after a section of the foot overbridge near a busy train station in south Mumbai collapsed during evening rush hour on Thursday.

Mumbai bridge collapse: Two civic engineers suspended, inquiry ordered

Many people in Amritsar city claimed to have heard "loud blasts" in the wee hours of Thursday after which social media was abuzz with speculations.

A few people took to social media to write about two very loud sounds, which some said sounded similar to bomb blasts.

However, police said "everything was okay" in the city and not to believe in "rumours" on social media.

Jagjit Singh Walia, ADCP Amritsar, told ANI, "I appeal to the people to not believe in rumours on social media. Everything is okay. As per our information, nothing has happened."

On Twitter, people claimed "heightened air activity" in the city. Soon the hashtag Amritsar surfaced with the conversation perking up about "sonic booms", "low flying jets" &nbsp;or just "loud sounds across the sky".

Most people reported loud sounds around 1 am on Friday.

ADCP Amritsar said it was merely a chatter on social media and added, "We will investigate the matter. If there is something, we will let you know." &nbsp;

Amritsar is situated near the border of India with Pakistan with the Wagah Border only 28 kilometres away from it.

Recently, tensions have been high between India and Pakistan ever since India undertook an anti-terror strike on a JeM terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot.

Many people in Amritsar city claimed to have heard "loud blasts" in the wee hours of Thursday after which social media was abuzz with speculations. A few people took to social media to write about two very loud sounds, which some said sounded similar to bomb blasts.

Many people in Amritsar city claimed to have heard "loud blasts" in the wee hours of Thursday after which social media was abuzz with speculations. A few people took to social media to write about two very loud sounds, which some said sounded similar to bomb blasts. However, police said "everything was okay" in the city and not to believe in "rumours" on social media. Jagjit Singh Walia, ADCP Amritsar, told ANI, "I appeal to the people to not believe in rumours on social media. Everything is okay. As per our information, nothing has happened." On Twitter, people claimed "heightened air activity" in the city. Soon the hashtag Amritsar surfaced with the conversation perking up about "sonic booms", "low flying jets" or just "loud sounds across the sky". Most people reported loud sounds around 1 am on Friday. ADCP Amritsar said it was merely a chatter on social media and added, "We will investigate the matter. If there is something, we will let you know." Amritsar is situated near the border of India with Pakistan with the Wagah Border only 28 kilometres away from it. Recently, tensions have been high between India and Pakistan ever since India undertook an anti-terror strike on a JeM terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot.

Social media abuzz with 'loud blast'' sounds in Amritsar

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata.

Women are making a beeline at a store in the city’s largest shopping complexes – New Market to view and purchase sarees with political party symbols on it. &nbsp;

These sarees have the TMC, BJP symbols digitally printed on it and come in several fabrics and patterns, designs.

''We always come up with something new on festivals. Be it Diwali or Holi, we come up with festival-themed sarees. Since the election is our biggest political festival, we thought why not come up with election-themed sarees,'' said the shop owner of Mansa sarees.

He adds, ''People who are passing by our store are also looking at these sarees with much astonishment as they have not seen anything like this before. Curious customers are buying sarees of their choice as they are available at very affordable ranges. We have the same symbol sarees in different patterns, designs and colours, so a lot of variety is on offer.''

A customer, Shrishti Jha who was caught in a surprise said, ''Fashion is synonymous with fashion. Our political leaders are fashion icons at the same time. The beauty of democracy is that we can openly flaunt our party affiliation. We can wear the saree of our own choice and support the party we wish to vote for this election.''

The shop owner further added that sarees begin at Rs 1200 and goes up to higher ranges. ''We have received a great response so far. Not just the candidates or party supporters are buying these sarees, but a lot of general public are buying them. If someone comes up with their own design, we can customize the saree according to their choice,'' he said.

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata.

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata. Women are making a beeline at a store in the city’s largest shopping complexes – New Market to view and purchase sarees with political party symbols on it. These sarees have the TMC, BJP symbols digitally printed on it and come in several fabrics and patterns, designs. ''We always come up with something new on festivals. Be it Diwali or Holi, we come up with festival-themed sarees. Since the election is our biggest political festival, we thought why not come up with election-themed sarees,'' said the shop owner of Mansa sarees. He adds, ''People who are passing by our store are also looking at these sarees with much astonishment as they have not seen anything like this before. Curious customers are buying sarees of their choice as they are available at very affordable ranges. We have the same symbol sarees in different patterns, designs and colours, so a lot of variety is on offer.'' A customer, Shrishti Jha who was caught in a surprise said, ''Fashion is synonymous with fashion. Our political leaders are fashion icons at the same time. The beauty of democracy is that we can openly flaunt our party affiliation. We can wear the saree of our own choice and support the party we wish to vote for this election.'' The shop owner further added that sarees begin at Rs 1200 and goes up to higher ranges. ''We have received a great response so far. Not just the candidates or party supporters are buying these sarees, but a lot of general public are buying them. If someone comes up with their own design, we can customize the saree according to their choice,'' he said.

People make a beeline to buy TMC-BJP themed sarees in Kolkata

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-injured-after-mass-shooting-in-new-zealands-mosque-203408">New Zealand police hunt 'active shooter' after gunman opens fire at </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-injured-after-mass-shooting-in-new-zealands-mosque-203408">mosque</a>

New Zealand police were hunting "an active shooter" in the&nbsp;centre of Christchurch city on Friday&nbsp;after a gunman opened fire at a mosque inflicting several casualties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-mosque-attack-bangladesh-cricket-team-was-about-to-go-inside-safe-but-mentally-shocked-203418">Christchurch mosque attack: Bangladesh cricket team was about to go inside; 'safe but mentally shocked'</a>

Bangladesh's&nbsp;cricket team escaped unscathed&nbsp;after a deadly shooting at a mosque in New Zealand, an official told AFP on Friday. Bangladesh Cricket Board spokesman Jalal Yunus said most of the team were bussed to the mosque in Christchurch and were about to go inside when the incident happened.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405">Mumbai foot overbridge collapse: Death toll rises to six, CM Fadnavis calls for </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405">high-level</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-foot-overbridge-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-fir-registered-203405"> inquiry</a>

At least six people were killed and over 30 injured after a portion of a&nbsp;(CSMT) railway station in Mumbai&nbsp;collapsed on Thursday evening. A big slab of the bridge came crashing down at around 7.20 pm due to which several pedestrians were injured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-pausing-delivery-but-will-continue-production-of-737-max-boeing-203401">We are pausing </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-pausing-delivery-but-will-continue-production-of-737-max-boeing-203401">delivery,</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-pausing-delivery-but-will-continue-production-of-737-max-boeing-203401"> but will continue production of 737 Max: Boeing</a>

US aerospace giant Boeing said Thursday it was suspending deliveries of its top-selling 737 MAX as French investigators took delivery of the black boxes from the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed all 157 passengers and crew.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pompeo-says-all-us-diplomats-have-left-venezuela-203407">All US diplomats have left Venezuela: Pompeo</a>

All&nbsp;US diplomats&nbsp;remaining in Venezuela left the country on Thursday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, amid a&nbsp;political crisis&nbsp;over the legitimacy of President Nicolas Maduro's 2018 re-election.

New Zealand police hunt 'active shooter' after gunman opens fire at mosque New Zealand police were hunting "an active shooter" in the centre of Christchurch city on Friday after a gunman opened fire at a mosque inflicting several casualties.

New Zealand police hunt 'active shooter' after gunman opens fire at mosque New Zealand police were hunting "an active shooter" in the centre of Christchurch city on Friday after a gunman opened fire at a mosque inflicting several casualties. Christchurch mosque attack: Bangladesh cricket team was about to go inside; 'safe but mentally shocked' Bangladesh's cricket team escaped unscathed after a deadly shooting at a mosque in New Zealand, an official told AFP on Friday. Bangladesh Cricket Board spokesman Jalal Yunus said most of the team were bussed to the mosque in Christchurch and were about to go inside when the incident happened. Mumbai foot overbridge collapse: Death toll rises to six, CM Fadnavis calls for high-level inquiry At least six people were killed and over 30 injured after a portion of a (CSMT) railway station in Mumbai collapsed on Thursday evening. A big slab of the bridge came crashing down at around 7.20 pm due to which several pedestrians were injured. We are pausing delivery, but will continue production of 737 Max: Boeing US aerospace giant Boeing said Thursday it was suspending deliveries of its top-selling 737 MAX as French investigators took delivery of the black boxes from the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed all 157 passengers and crew. All US diplomats have left Venezuela: Pompeo All US diplomats remaining in Venezuela left the country on Thursday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, amid a political crisis over the legitimacy of President Nicolas Maduro's 2018 re-election.

Air India in the UK confirmed on Friday that it would be suspending all flights to and from Birmingham Airport from Saturday due to "extraordinary circumstances" involving the closure of Pakistan's airspace.

The Indian national carrier said that its daily flights to India from London Heathrow remain unaffected as the New Delhi and Amritsar services in and out of Birmingham will be grounded until further updates.

"The flight cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances, namely closure of Pakistan airspace and resultant impact which is beyond the control of Air India, said Debashis Golder, Regional Manager UK and Europe.

"In fact, besides Birmingham, many other flights in our network have been cancelled, combined or being operated with restricted payload, to reduce impact on passenger travel to the minimum, he said.

Pakistan airspace remains closed since Indian airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the country following a terror attack claimed by the terror outfit that killed 40 jawans in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir last month.

Air India flies six times a week from Birmingham Airport three times direct to Delhi and three times direct to Amritsar.&nbsp;

The airport expressed its disappointment at the suspension of AI113 Delhi-Birmingham, AI114 Birmingham-Delhi, AI117 Delhi-Amritsar-Birmingham, and AI118 Birmingham-Amritsar-Delhi and said it was working with the airline to restore the schedule.

"The airport is very understanding of the current situation which means that Pakistan airspace cannot be overflown and the operational impact that this is having on Air India,? a Birmingham Airport spokesperson said.

"Passengers that are already booked on Air India flights from Birmingham will be contacted by the airline to re-book or to gain a refund. We are working closely with Air India to restore these flights to Birmingham Airport's schedule as soon as possible," the spokesperson said.

Among the other routes affected by Friday's announcement include Air India's Delhi-Madrid and Madrid-Delhi flights.

Air India in the UK confirmed on Friday that it would be suspending all flights to and from Birmingham Airport from Saturday due to "extraordinary circumstances" involving the closure of Pakistan's airspace.

Air India in the UK confirmed on Friday that it would be suspending all flights to and from Birmingham Airport from Saturday due to "extraordinary circumstances" involving the closure of Pakistan's airspace. The Indian national carrier said that its daily flights to India from London Heathrow remain unaffected as the New Delhi and Amritsar services in and out of Birmingham will be grounded until further updates. "The flight cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances, namely closure of Pakistan airspace and resultant impact which is beyond the control of Air India, said Debashis Golder, Regional Manager UK and Europe. "In fact, besides Birmingham, many other flights in our network have been cancelled, combined or being operated with restricted payload, to reduce impact on passenger travel to the minimum, he said. Pakistan airspace remains closed since Indian airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the country following a terror attack claimed by the terror outfit that killed 40 jawans in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir last month. Air India flies six times a week from Birmingham Airport three times direct to Delhi and three times direct to Amritsar. The airport expressed its disappointment at the suspension of AI113 Delhi-Birmingham, AI114 Birmingham-Delhi, AI117 Delhi-Amritsar-Birmingham, and AI118 Birmingham-Amritsar-Delhi and said it was working with the airline to restore the schedule. "The airport is very understanding of the current situation which means that Pakistan airspace cannot be overflown and the operational impact that this is having on Air India,? a Birmingham Airport spokesperson said. "Passengers that are already booked on Air India flights from Birmingham will be contacted by the airline to re-book or to gain a refund. We are working closely with Air India to restore these flights to Birmingham Airport's schedule as soon as possible," the spokesperson said. Among the other routes affected by Friday's announcement include Air India's Delhi-Madrid and Madrid-Delhi flights.

Air India suspends flights to and from Birmingham

A male passenger was caught smoking in the lavatory of an IndiGo flight while it was on its way from Goa to Delhi on Thursday.

The passenger, Narendra Singh, who was onboard flight 6E 637, entered the aircraft lavatory and started smoking following which the cabin crew got an alert. In a swift action, the crew alerted the pilot about the passenger&nbsp;smoking in the lavatory.

The aircraft landed at Delhi airport 5.55 pm and the pilot immediately informed the ATC for aviation security help.

Subsequently, Narendra Singh was handed over to aviation security CISF and later, the Delhi Police took him in custody.

Confirming the incident, DCP (Airport) Sanjay Bhatia said, "We have registered a non-cognizable report against the accused&nbsp;&nbsp;passenger on the complaint of IndiGo staff."

A similar incident was reported earlier also when a passenger of onboard of the IndiGo flight 6E-947, from Ahmedabad to Goa, was caught smoking in the aircraft lavatory on Christmas day.

A male passenger was caught smoking in the lavatory of an IndiGo flight while it was on its way from Goa to Delhi on Thursday. The passenger, Narendra Singh, who was onboard flight 6E 637, entered the aircraft lavatory and started smoking following which the cabin crew got an alert.

A male passenger was caught smoking in the lavatory of an IndiGo flight while it was on its way from Goa to Delhi on Thursday. The passenger, Narendra Singh, who was onboard flight 6E 637, entered the aircraft lavatory and started smoking following which the cabin crew got an alert. In a swift action, the crew alerted the pilot about the passenger smoking in the lavatory. The aircraft landed at Delhi airport 5.55 pm and the pilot immediately informed the ATC for aviation security help. Subsequently, Narendra Singh was handed over to aviation security CISF and later, the Delhi Police took him in custody. Confirming the incident, DCP (Airport) Sanjay Bhatia said, "We have registered a non-cognizable report against the accused passenger on the complaint of IndiGo staff." A similar incident was reported earlier also when a passenger of onboard of the IndiGo flight 6E-947, from Ahmedabad to Goa, was caught smoking in the aircraft lavatory on Christmas day.

Passenger caught smoking on IndiGo flight, taken into custody

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others.

The BJP will fight the Lok Sabha polls beginning April 11 with its old ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).

Of the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, the BJP will fight on three seats -- Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur. The SAD will contest the remaining 10.

Polling in Punjab will be held in a single phase on May 19. The results will be announced on May 23.

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others.

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others. The BJP will fight the Lok Sabha polls beginning April 11 with its old ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Of the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, the BJP will fight on three seats -- Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur. The SAD will contest the remaining 10. Polling in Punjab will be held in a single phase on May 19. The results will be announced on May 23.

Punjab: BJP forms committee to shortlist candidates for Lok Sabha polls

Day after the first round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the modalities of Kartarpur corridor, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday asked Pakistan to be ''more responsive'' to India's proposal and described Islamabad's counter-proposals ''totally inadequate''.&nbsp;

"Pakistan's response to India's demands on Kartarpur Corridor is totally inadequate. The Corridor won't serve its true purpose with such limitations. Sikhs have been deprived of Kartarpur Gurdwara darshan for 70 years, need to allow more people every day, including from overseas," the Congress leader from Punjab tweeted.

He also called on Islamabad to provide "Khule Darshan".&nbsp;

While New Delhi wanted&nbsp;Pilgrims'&nbsp;visit to be allowed all seven days and have the right to visit the gurudwara on the foot which is an essential element of any pilgrimage, Islamabad has not agreed to this saying Indian citizens can visit only on specially designated days.

He said, "Pilgrims should be allowed to go through KartarpurCorridor for ‘Khule Darshan’ at the historic Gurdwara all 7 days a week. Special permits should be good for identity, the visa requirement needs to be waived off. Pakistan has to be more responsive on this issue."

Pakistan is also not keen on Indian proposal that the corridor should be open to the Indian diaspora such as Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders.&nbsp;

Government sources say that Pakistan has lived up to its "old reputation of making false promises" by making "tall claims and delivering nothing" and has been doing "double-speak" on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor too.

Sources told WION, "there is a sea of difference between what Pakistan, including PM Imran Khan had announced and its actual offer during the talks''.

The talks turned out to be farcical and mere tokenism, the sources added.

During the talks, India had strongly raised the encroachment of land belonging to the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib and asked it to be returned.&nbsp;

The land was donated to the Gurdwara by Punjab's famous 19th-century ruler Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. Part of the land has also been taken over by the Pakistani government in the name of developing the Corridor.&nbsp;

The next round of talks will take place at Wagah, Pakistan on April 2, 2019.

Day after the first round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the modalities of Kartarpur corridor, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday asked Pakistan to be ''more responsive'' to India's proposal and described Islamabad's counter-proposals ''totally inadequate''.

Day after the first round of India-Pakistan talks to decide on the modalities of Kartarpur corridor, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday asked Pakistan to be ''more responsive'' to India's proposal and described Islamabad's counter-proposals ''totally inadequate''. "Pakistan's response to India's demands on Kartarpur Corridor is totally inadequate. The Corridor won't serve its true purpose with such limitations. Sikhs have been deprived of Kartarpur Gurdwara darshan for 70 years, need to allow more people every day, including from overseas," the Congress leader from Punjab tweeted. He also called on Islamabad to provide "Khule Darshan". While New Delhi wanted Pilgrims' visit to be allowed all seven days and have the right to visit the gurudwara on the foot which is an essential element of any pilgrimage, Islamabad has not agreed to this saying Indian citizens can visit only on specially designated days. He said, "Pilgrims should be allowed to go through KartarpurCorridor for ‘Khule Darshan’ at the historic Gurdwara all 7 days a week. Special permits should be good for identity, the visa requirement needs to be waived off. Pakistan has to be more responsive on this issue." Pakistan is also not keen on Indian proposal that the corridor should be open to the Indian diaspora such as Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders. Government sources say that Pakistan has lived up to its "old reputation of making false promises" by making "tall claims and delivering nothing" and has been doing "double-speak" on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor too. Sources told WION, "there is a sea of difference between what Pakistan, including PM Imran Khan had announced and its actual offer during the talks''. The talks turned out to be farcical and mere tokenism, the sources added. During the talks, India had strongly raised the encroachment of land belonging to the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib and asked it to be returned. The land was donated to the Gurdwara by Punjab's famous 19th-century ruler Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. Part of the land has also been taken over by the Pakistani government in the name of developing the Corridor. The next round of talks will take place at Wagah, Pakistan on April 2, 2019.

Kartarpur Corridor talks: Punjab CM Amarinder asks Pakistan to be 'more responsive' to Indian proposals

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls.

"Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls," Cabral said in a press conference here.

Stating that his guidance is enough for the BJP, Cabral stated, “We know that the Chief Minister is not well. And with his blessing and guidance, we are all working... Tomorrow what we will do, is all under his guidance. Unfortunately, he is not active in the field. But he is actively guiding us in all directions. I think that is enough for us.”

Taking note of Parrikar's health, the Opposition had said earlier that Parrikar should honourably resign from the post due to his health issues.

Speaking to ANI, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and transgender activist Apsara Reddy said,&nbsp;"Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is suffering from advanced cancer should step down as an unhealthy chief minister cannot lead a healthy and happy state."

On March 3, Parrikar underwent a check-up at the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), and was later allowed to go home as his health condition is stable, said an official of the Chief Minister's Office.

The Chief Minister, who was diagnosed with a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai Delhi, and New York since February last year.

Last month, he was admitted to the state's Medical College for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Dispelling rumours about Parrikar's condition, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane had earlier said that the Chief Minister was doing well and his health condition was stable.

Parrikar, who has made public appearances, was seen wearing medical paraphernalia -- a nasogastric tube -- while attending a session of the Goa Assembly.

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls.

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls. "Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls," Cabral said in a press conference here. Stating that his guidance is enough for the BJP, Cabral stated, “We know that the Chief Minister is not well. And with his blessing and guidance, we are all working... Tomorrow what we will do, is all under his guidance. Unfortunately, he is not active in the field. But he is actively guiding us in all directions. I think that is enough for us.” Taking note of Parrikar's health, the Opposition had said earlier that Parrikar should honourably resign from the post due to his health issues. Speaking to ANI, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and transgender activist Apsara Reddy said, "Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is suffering from advanced cancer should step down as an unhealthy chief minister cannot lead a healthy and happy state." On March 3, Parrikar underwent a check-up at the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), and was later allowed to go home as his health condition is stable, said an official of the Chief Minister's Office. The Chief Minister, who was diagnosed with a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai Delhi, and New York since February last year. Last month, he was admitted to the state's Medical College for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Dispelling rumours about Parrikar's condition, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane had earlier said that the Chief Minister was doing well and his health condition was stable. Parrikar, who has made public appearances, was seen wearing medical paraphernalia -- a nasogastric tube -- while attending a session of the Goa Assembly.

Parrikar continues to be guiding force of BJP's poll campaign in Goa: State minister

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year.

With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly.

The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday.

Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time.

Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur.

Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday.

"I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons.

Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said.

Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets.

Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota).

The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that&nbsp;Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats&nbsp;in&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase.

The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency. At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year. With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly. The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday. Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time. Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur. Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday. "I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons. Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said. Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets. Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota). The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase. The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.

TDP announces 126 candidates for Assembly polls; Naidu, son Nara Lokesh to contest

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates.

The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District.

The other candidates include Dhanraj Haribhau Mahale from Dindori, Sameer Bhujbal from Nashik, Amol Kolhe from Shirur and Bajrang Sonavane from Beed parliamentary seat.

The party, on Thursday, announced the first list of 12 candidates including the daughter of Sharad Pawar Supriya Sule. In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Supriya won from Baramati seat which used to be Sharad Pawar’s bastion.

The other candidates including Sanjay Dina Patil from Mumbai North East, Anand Paranjpe from Thane, Rajendra Shingane from Buldhana, Sunil Tatkare from Raigad, Udayanraje Bhosale from Satara, Dhananjay Mahadik from Kolhapur, Gulabarao Deokar from Jalgaon, Rajesh Vitekar from Parbhani, and Babaji Balaram Patil from Kalyan parliamentary seat.

Mohammad Faizal is the NCP candidate for Lakshadeep constituency.

NCP has extended support to Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna chief Raju Shetti who is contesting from Hatkanangale. He won from the seat in the last election.

After the second list, the total number of declared candidates for the NCP has reached 17.

Pawar had announced that he will not contest the ensuing general elections. The party is contesting the polls in alliance with the Congress in Maharashtra where 48 LokSabha seats are at stake.

Election Commission of India had announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11.

The final phase of voting will take place on May 19 and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates. The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District.

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates. The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District. The other candidates include Dhanraj Haribhau Mahale from Dindori, Sameer Bhujbal from Nashik, Amol Kolhe from Shirur and Bajrang Sonavane from Beed parliamentary seat. The party, on Thursday, announced the first list of 12 candidates including the daughter of Sharad Pawar Supriya Sule. In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Supriya won from Baramati seat which used to be Sharad Pawar’s bastion. The other candidates including Sanjay Dina Patil from Mumbai North East, Anand Paranjpe from Thane, Rajendra Shingane from Buldhana, Sunil Tatkare from Raigad, Udayanraje Bhosale from Satara, Dhananjay Mahadik from Kolhapur, Gulabarao Deokar from Jalgaon, Rajesh Vitekar from Parbhani, and Babaji Balaram Patil from Kalyan parliamentary seat. Mohammad Faizal is the NCP candidate for Lakshadeep constituency. NCP has extended support to Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna chief Raju Shetti who is contesting from Hatkanangale. He won from the seat in the last election. After the second list, the total number of declared candidates for the NCP has reached 17. Pawar had announced that he will not contest the ensuing general elections. The party is contesting the polls in alliance with the Congress in Maharashtra where 48 LokSabha seats are at stake. Election Commission of India had announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11. The final phase of voting will take place on May 19 and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Lok Sabha Polls: NCP announces second list of candidates

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday.

While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency.

Even as the Left-Congress alliance is yet to be officially announced, the party has decided to not field candidates in four seats where Congress had won in the 2014 elections. These four seats are traditional Congress bastions – Malda Uttar, Malda Dakshin, Jangipur and Berhampur.

The 25 candidates whose names were announced today are :-

<ol>
	<li>Coochbehar – Gobind Ray</li>
	<li>Alipurduar – Mili Urao</li>
	<li>Jalpaiguri – Bhagirath Ray</li>
	<li>Raigunj – Md&nbsp;Salim</li>
	<li>Balurghat – Ronen Barman</li>
	<li>Murshidabad – Badrudozza Khan</li>
	<li>Ranaghat – Rama Biswas</li>
	<li>Bongaon – Alokesh Das</li>
	<li>Dum Dum – Nepal Chandra Bhattacharya</li>
	<li>Barasat – Haripad Biswas</li>
	<li>Basirhat – Pallab Sengupta</li>
	<li>Joynagar – Subhas Naskar</li>
	<li>Diamond Harbour – Dr&nbsp;Fuad Halim</li>
	<li>Jadavpur – Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya</li>
	<li>Kolkata South – Nandini Mukherjee</li>
	<li>Uluberia – Maksuda Khatun</li>
	<li>Hooghly – Pradip Saha</li>
	<li>Arambagh – Saktimohan Mullick</li>
	<li>Ghatal – Tapan Ganguly</li>
	<li>Mednipur – Biplab Bhatt</li>
	<li>Purulia – Bir Singh Mahato</li>
	<li>Bishnupur – Sunil Kha</li>
	<li>Burdwan Purba – Iswarchandra Das</li>
	<li>Burdwan Durgapur – Abhas Roy Chowdhuryt</li>
	<li>Birbhum – Dr&nbsp;Rezaul Karim</li>
</ol>

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday. While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency.

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday. While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency. Even as the Left-Congress alliance is yet to be officially announced, the party has decided to not field candidates in four seats where Congress had won in the 2014 elections. These four seats are traditional Congress bastions – Malda Uttar, Malda Dakshin, Jangipur and Berhampur. The 25 candidates whose names were announced today are :- Coochbehar – Gobind Ray Alipurduar – Mili Urao Jalpaiguri – Bhagirath Ray Raigunj – Md Salim Balurghat – Ronen Barman Murshidabad – Badrudozza Khan Ranaghat – Rama Biswas Bongaon – Alokesh Das Dum Dum – Nepal Chandra Bhattacharya Barasat – Haripad Biswas Basirhat – Pallab Sengupta Joynagar – Subhas Naskar Diamond Harbour – Dr Fuad Halim Jadavpur – Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya Kolkata South – Nandini Mukherjee Uluberia – Maksuda Khatun Hooghly – Pradip Saha Arambagh – Saktimohan Mullick Ghatal – Tapan Ganguly Mednipur – Biplab Bhatt Purulia – Bir Singh Mahato Bishnupur – Sunil Kha Burdwan Purba – Iswarchandra Das Burdwan Durgapur – Abhas Roy Chowdhuryt Birbhum – Dr Rezaul Karim

Lok Sabha polls: Left Front announces first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal

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