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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-accusing-tehran-of-having-chemical-weapons-programme-is-obscene-and-dangerous-179067">Iran says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-accusing-tehran-of-having-chemical-weapons-programme-is-obscene-and-dangerous-179067">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-accusing-tehran-of-having-chemical-weapons-programme-is-obscene-and-dangerous-179067"> accusing Tehran of having chemical weapons programme is 'obscene and dangerous'</a>

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday said that US accusations that Tehran has a chemical weapons programme were "obscene and dangerous".

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&nbsp;

Iran says US accusing Tehran of having chemical weapons programme is 'obscene and dangerous' Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday said that US accusations that Tehran has a chemical weapons programme were "obscene and dangerous".

Iran says US accusing Tehran of having chemical weapons programme is 'obscene and dangerous' Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday said that US accusations that Tehran has a chemical weapons programme were "obscene and dangerous". Climate change could cost US 'hundreds of billions' a year: Study Climate change is already hurting the global economy and will cost the US hundreds of billions of dollars annually by century's end unless drastic action is taken to cut carbon emissions, a major US government report warned on Friday. Taiwan vote spotlights social and political rifts Millions of Taiwanese go to the polls Saturday in key elections which tap into a raft of divisive issues, from relations with Beijing to gay rights. Pakistan detains hardline cleric behind blasphemy protests: Information minister Pakistani police late Friday detained a hardline cleric whose party recently paralysed the country with violent protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman accused of blasphemy. Brexit deal critics gather in Belfast on eve of EU summit Opposition to a draft Brexit deal due to be approved by EU leaders will dominate a conference on Saturday of the Democratic Unionist Party, the Northern Irish party whose support is vital to Prime Minister Theresa May's government and Brexit plans.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Death toll in the Mandya bus mishap in Karnataka&nbsp;rose to 30, reported news agency ANI. Schoolchildren were among the dead after a bus plunged into a canal on&nbsp;Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News agency AFP&nbsp;quoting sources said police have retrieved 28 bodies from the private passenger bus after it veered off the road and fell into the canal.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I'm sorry to hear about the terrible bus accident in Mandya district of Karnataka in which over 20 people are feared dead &amp; many others injured. 
 
I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased &amp; pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1066258921248210944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The accident&nbsp;occurred in the noon near Kanakanamaradi of Pandavapura taluk, reports added.

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25 people have died. I believe the driver was not driving properly, I will find out, take some more inputs: Deputy Karnataka CM G Parameshwara on the incident where a bus fell into a canal near Mandya in Karnataka today. <a href="https://t.co/8aHjXLXhTM">pic.twitter.com/8aHjXLXhTM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066249734086635520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister &nbsp;Parameshwara confirmed that 25 people have died following the accident.

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Karnataka: At least 15 people died after the bus they were in, fell into VC canal near Mandya earlier today. The death toll is likely to rise. <a href="https://t.co/1fFs4z7tOI">pic.twitter.com/1fFs4z7tOI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066239232153403392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rescue teams have reached the spot and rescue operation is underway, officials added.

The bus was completely submerged following the accident.

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Deeply pained the bus accident in Karnataka’s Mandya. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. May God give them strength in this hour of sadness: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1066263113601695749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Most of the victims are school children, they said, adding that they were returning home after half-a-day at school.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has spoken to district in-charge minister C S Puttaraju and district Deputy Commissioner and directed them to visit the spot immediately and oversee the rescue operation.&nbsp;

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Karnataka: Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy visits the site of the accident where 25 people died after a bus fell into a canal near Mandya; announces a compensation for Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased <a href="https://t.co/IEFOQsV3SQ">pic.twitter.com/IEFOQsV3SQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066278591447658497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kumaraswamy expressed shock over the incident and rushed to the spot.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi and several other leaders expressed their condolences.

Death toll in the Mandya bus mishap in Karnataka rose to 30, reported news agency ANI. Schoolchildren were among the dead after a bus plunged into a canal on Saturday.

Death toll in the Mandya bus mishap in Karnataka rose to 30, reported news agency ANI. Schoolchildren were among the dead after a bus plunged into a canal on Saturday. News agency AFP quoting sources said police have retrieved 28 bodies from the private passenger bus after it veered off the road and fell into the canal. I'm sorry to hear about the terrible bus accident in Mandya district of Karnataka in which over 20 people are feared dead & many others injured. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased & pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 24, 2018 × The accident occurred in the noon near Kanakanamaradi of Pandavapura taluk, reports added. 25 people have died. I believe the driver was not driving properly, I will find out, take some more inputs: Deputy Karnataka CM G Parameshwara on the incident where a bus fell into a canal near Mandya in Karnataka today. pic.twitter.com/8aHjXLXhTM — ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2018 × Earlier, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Parameshwara confirmed that 25 people have died following the accident. Karnataka: At least 15 people died after the bus they were in, fell into VC canal near Mandya earlier today. The death toll is likely to rise. pic.twitter.com/1fFs4z7tOI — ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2018 × Rescue teams have reached the spot and rescue operation is underway, officials added. The bus was completely submerged following the accident. Deeply pained the bus accident in Karnataka’s Mandya. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. May God give them strength in this hour of sadness: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 24, 2018 × Most of the victims are school children, they said, adding that they were returning home after half-a-day at school. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has spoken to district in-charge minister C S Puttaraju and district Deputy Commissioner and directed them to visit the spot immediately and oversee the rescue operation. Karnataka: Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy visits the site of the accident where 25 people died after a bus fell into a canal near Mandya; announces a compensation for Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased pic.twitter.com/IEFOQsV3SQ — ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2018 × Kumaraswamy expressed shock over the incident and rushed to the spot. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi and several other leaders expressed their condolences.

Karnataka: Death toll in Mandya bus accident rises to 30

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6.&nbsp;

The city is teeming with saffron hue and decked up to welcome thousands of people who will descend in Ayodhya on Sunday, putting pressure on its insufficient civic infrastructure.&nbsp;

Point to be noted, the mobilisation of this scale is taking place in Ayodhya almost after two decades. The elections after 1996 were fought on issues other than Ayodhya. &nbsp;Post demolition, Ayodhya as a political issue was kept at the back burner for the compulsion of coalition politics. Interestingly, it was never the original vision of BJP when it was formed in the year 1980. It was only adopted in 1987 during the Palampur session.

The Dharma Sabha is being organised to exert pressure on the Central government to swiftly resolve the Ayodhya issue. This has happened because the Supreme Court has not displayed urgency on the matter as desired by a section of the civil society and political parties like BJP and Shiv Sena. In fact, the judiciary has always treated the issue as a land suit. Unfortunately, it has the potential to bring the judiciary and the executive face-to-face on the issue of law and governance.

The original poster boys of the Ayodhya movement today are long gone. LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi are on sidelines, Uma Bharti does have hold in the current dispensation, Sadhvi Ritambhara is not in politics, Kalyan Singh has been retired as a governor and Vinay Katiyar does not enjoy that weight in politics any more.

Advani’s politics after the demolition was constrained by the compulsion of a coalition. The fact they required help from smaller parties to form the government, the mandir agenda was brushed under the carpet; it lasted from 1996 until 2014. PM Modi’s big victory changed the game for BJP.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Over a period of time, BJP found it difficult to explain it to its core voters the reason behind its inability to construct the temple. It is this compulsion that has led to the mobilisation in Ayodhya. It is for this reason that BJP is questioning the Supreme Court on the issue of Sabarimala and Ayodhya. It is for this reason, BJP is trying to pitch this political narrative as a war against people versus the elitist institution. And, it is for this reason that right before the Lok Sabha elections, the saffron party wants its electoral campaign to have decisive Ayodhya colour, just in case the economic chest thumping fails.

Ayodhya, for this very reason, is back on agenda for BJP. The only issue which is worrisome is the law and order. Despite assurances given by the Kalyan Singh government, the mosque was brought down. Subsequently, BJP governments were dismissed by a presidential order. BJP is in no position to allow such a mischief, but in case anything of this order happens, the game will be wide open to political parties with hard secretarian views.

An issue which is being treated both as a land suit and a matter of faith has once again acquired the ability to mutate the DNA of a republic which is invested in constitutional morality.

If legal lines are crossed again, India will mirror ugly realities of Pakistan which it has not been able to deal with ever since partition because of rapid break down of civilian institutions and religion acquiring primacy over culture, politics and economy.&nbsp;

The most unfortunate part is that the principal Opposition party is in no position to take any position on Ayodhya. Rajiv Gandhi got the locks opened and the mosque fell when PV Narasimha Rao held the charge as the prime minister.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi is far more focussed on his image makeover by temple hopping, leaving a vacuum in cultural space to be consumed by BJP-RSS alike. Today, there is no stopping BJP because Congress cannot take a position on temple dispute. BJP has changed the goalposts of debate on religion and state, on which Congress failed as a neutral gatekeeper.

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya.

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6. The city is teeming with saffron hue and decked up to welcome thousands of people who will descend in Ayodhya on Sunday, putting pressure on its insufficient civic infrastructure. Point to be noted, the mobilisation of this scale is taking place in Ayodhya almost after two decades. The elections after 1996 were fought on issues other than Ayodhya. Post demolition, Ayodhya as a political issue was kept at the back burner for the compulsion of coalition politics. Interestingly, it was never the original vision of BJP when it was formed in the year 1980. It was only adopted in 1987 during the Palampur session. The Dharma Sabha is being organised to exert pressure on the Central government to swiftly resolve the Ayodhya issue. This has happened because the Supreme Court has not displayed urgency on the matter as desired by a section of the civil society and political parties like BJP and Shiv Sena. In fact, the judiciary has always treated the issue as a land suit. Unfortunately, it has the potential to bring the judiciary and the executive face-to-face on the issue of law and governance. The original poster boys of the Ayodhya movement today are long gone. LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi are on sidelines, Uma Bharti does have hold in the current dispensation, Sadhvi Ritambhara is not in politics, Kalyan Singh has been retired as a governor and Vinay Katiyar does not enjoy that weight in politics any more. Advani’s politics after the demolition was constrained by the compulsion of a coalition. The fact they required help from smaller parties to form the government, the mandir agenda was brushed under the carpet; it lasted from 1996 until 2014. PM Modi’s big victory changed the game for BJP. Over a period of time, BJP found it difficult to explain it to its core voters the reason behind its inability to construct the temple. It is this compulsion that has led to the mobilisation in Ayodhya. It is for this reason that BJP is questioning the Supreme Court on the issue of Sabarimala and Ayodhya. It is for this reason, BJP is trying to pitch this political narrative as a war against people versus the elitist institution. And, it is for this reason that right before the Lok Sabha elections, the saffron party wants its electoral campaign to have decisive Ayodhya colour, just in case the economic chest thumping fails. Ayodhya, for this very reason, is back on agenda for BJP. The only issue which is worrisome is the law and order. Despite assurances given by the Kalyan Singh government, the mosque was brought down. Subsequently, BJP governments were dismissed by a presidential order. BJP is in no position to allow such a mischief, but in case anything of this order happens, the game will be wide open to political parties with hard secretarian views. An issue which is being treated both as a land suit and a matter of faith has once again acquired the ability to mutate the DNA of a republic which is invested in constitutional morality. If legal lines are crossed again, India will mirror ugly realities of Pakistan which it has not been able to deal with ever since partition because of rapid break down of civilian institutions and religion acquiring primacy over culture, politics and economy. The most unfortunate part is that the principal Opposition party is in no position to take any position on Ayodhya. Rajiv Gandhi got the locks opened and the mosque fell when PV Narasimha Rao held the charge as the prime minister. Rahul Gandhi is far more focussed on his image makeover by temple hopping, leaving a vacuum in cultural space to be consumed by BJP-RSS alike. Today, there is no stopping BJP because Congress cannot take a position on temple dispute. BJP has changed the goalposts of debate on religion and state, on which Congress failed as a neutral gatekeeper.

As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it

Bhagwan Das is a barber by profession with daily earnings of around Rs 250 to 400 and lives in a rented one-room set with his family.

Das is also contesting in the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections from Jaipur's Malviya Nagar constituency as a Janta Dal (United) candidate.

Das underlined that having lived as a "voiceless" individual all his life, he now wants to be the voice of the weak and uplift them.

"I belong from Sain community and I want to become the voice of the voiceless. I work in the morning and go for campaigning in the afternoon on my friend`s bike. I hurry back to my shop in the evening so that I do not miss my customers," Das said.

Das is contesting against veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kalicharan Saraf, who has converted Malviya Nagar into his bastion, emerging victorious from the constituency for the last four terms.

Das said he didn't even have money to procure banners and posters, saying his friends pooled in and encouraged him to pursue his ambition.

"My wife cooks in various houses on a monthly wage. I was encouraged by my friends here to contest the elections. My friends are helping me financially, to print banners and posters as I have no money," Das said.

There are over two lakh registered voters from the Malviya Nagar constituency this year.

The elections are scheduled for December 7 when the state will elect the 200 members of its assembly. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.&nbsp;

Bhagwan Das is a barber by profession with daily earnings of around Rs 250 to 400 and lives in a rented one-room set with his family. Das is also contesting in the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections from Jaipur's Malviya Nagar constituency as a Janta Dal (United) candidate.

Bhagwan Das is a barber by profession with daily earnings of around Rs 250 to 400 and lives in a rented one-room set with his family. Das is also contesting in the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections from Jaipur's Malviya Nagar constituency as a Janta Dal (United) candidate. Das underlined that having lived as a "voiceless" individual all his life, he now wants to be the voice of the weak and uplift them. "I belong from Sain community and I want to become the voice of the voiceless. I work in the morning and go for campaigning in the afternoon on my friend`s bike. I hurry back to my shop in the evening so that I do not miss my customers," Das said. Das is contesting against veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kalicharan Saraf, who has converted Malviya Nagar into his bastion, emerging victorious from the constituency for the last four terms. Das said he didn't even have money to procure banners and posters, saying his friends pooled in and encouraged him to pursue his ambition. "My wife cooks in various houses on a monthly wage. I was encouraged by my friends here to contest the elections. My friends are helping me financially, to print banners and posters as I have no money," Das said. There are over two lakh registered voters from the Malviya Nagar constituency this year. The elections are scheduled for December 7 when the state will elect the 200 members of its assembly. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Aiming to be voice for the weak, Rajasthan barber to contest polls

The District administration here has sealed the doors of the room where Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) have been kept after the elections by constructing brick walls.

The strong room has been sealed locked after storing the EVM's of three assembly constituencies of the district.

Sharing details of this unusual security measure district collector Mahadev Kawre said, "To keep EVM`s secure we have erected a wall. Gates have been kept sealed locked but the wall is an added precaution. Security of EVM is of utmost importance. We have deployed a company of central force with 120 personnel. CCTV is also being used for monitoring. Construction of wall has also been done as per rules. "

On being asked about how he came up with this idea, he said, "I queried about the measures that were taken in last elections and was told that a half wall was erected on the gates. In order to avoid any allegations or counters, we decided to make a full wall."

The first phase of elections in Chhattisgarh was held for 18 seats, distributed in eight Naxal-affected districts on November 12.

The polling for remaining 72 seats was held on November 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 11. A total of 1,291 candidates are in the fray.&nbsp;

The District administration here has sealed the doors of the room where Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) have been kept after the elections by constructing brick walls.

The District administration here has sealed the doors of the room where Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) have been kept after the elections by constructing brick walls. The strong room has been sealed locked after storing the EVM's of three assembly constituencies of the district. Sharing details of this unusual security measure district collector Mahadev Kawre said, "To keep EVM`s secure we have erected a wall. Gates have been kept sealed locked but the wall is an added precaution. Security of EVM is of utmost importance. We have deployed a company of central force with 120 personnel. CCTV is also being used for monitoring. Construction of wall has also been done as per rules. " On being asked about how he came up with this idea, he said, "I queried about the measures that were taken in last elections and was told that a half wall was erected on the gates. In order to avoid any allegations or counters, we decided to make a full wall." The first phase of elections in Chhattisgarh was held for 18 seats, distributed in eight Naxal-affected districts on November 12. The polling for remaining 72 seats was held on November 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 11. A total of 1,291 candidates are in the fray.

Chhattisgarh assembly polls: Doors of EVM stores sealed by constructing walls

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress.

The BJP candidate, Pratap Puri, is the head of the Taratara 'math'. The Congress' Shale Mohammad is the son of Muslim religious leader Gazi Fakir, who has a large number of followers both within India and across the border in Pakistan.

Both Puri and Fakir hold considerable sway among their communities, making the Pokhran constituency in Jaisalmer district one of the state's most hotly contested seats.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath and Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address rallies in support of Puri and Mohammad, respectively, on Monday, setting the tone for the rest of the campaign in the region better known for the nuclear tests in 1998.

Puri expressed confidence that the BJP will win the Pokhran seat and blamed the Congress for making the contest "communal" by fielding a Muslim candidate against him.

Protection of Hindus and cows has always been an important issue, he said.

"Hindutva is in my veins and the party is going to win the election which has been made communal by the Congress by fielding a Muslim candidate against me," the BJP candidate told PTI.

Religious leaders should be in politics for its purification, Puri (51), who hails from the influential Rajput community, said.

"The people are with the BJP because they have faith in the party's policies and in leaders like Narendra Modi," he said.

His Barmer-based 'math', which holds considerable influence in the entire Jodhpur division, is pulling out all stops to win over the electorate, conducting social and religious activities.

"We hold drug de-addiction camps, provide education to poor children and work for cow conservation, besides conducting several other social activities," Puri said.

The Congress candidate, Mohammad, said his focus was core issues like drinking water and other basic amenities for people in Pokhran, which has a total electorate of 1.94 lakh.

"People here face difficulties in getting drinking water and fodder for cattle. The constituency lacks healthcare facilities and I am focusing on that," he said.

Mohammad (41) had lost the 2013 assembly elections from the same seat to BJP's Shaitan Singh with a margin of 34,444 votes.

Mohammad's father, an octogenarian, boasts of a strong following in the Sindhi Muslim community and has several criminal cases against him.

There are an estimated 55,000 Muslim voters, 45,000-48,000 and Rajput voters in Pokhran. It also has around 35,000 Dalit voters, according to the candidates.

Pokhran is one of the two assembly constituencies of the desert district of Jaisalmer.

The second constituency, Jaisalmer, will also see a direct contest between BJP candidate Sang Singh Bhati and Congress' Roopa Ram.

The BJP chose Sang Singh Bhati over its sitting MLA Chotu Singh Bhati, while the Congress has fielded Ram for the second time after 2013.

A total of 11 and 18 candidates are in the fray in Pokhran and Jaisalmer respectively.

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress.

Western Rajasthan's Pokhran assembly constituency is set for a close fight on December 7 between a Hindu religious leader fielded by the BJP and son of Muslim 'peer' pitted against him by the Congress. The BJP candidate, Pratap Puri, is the head of the Taratara 'math'. The Congress' Shale Mohammad is the son of Muslim religious leader Gazi Fakir, who has a large number of followers both within India and across the border in Pakistan. Both Puri and Fakir hold considerable sway among their communities, making the Pokhran constituency in Jaisalmer district one of the state's most hotly contested seats. Uttar Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath and Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address rallies in support of Puri and Mohammad, respectively, on Monday, setting the tone for the rest of the campaign in the region better known for the nuclear tests in 1998. Puri expressed confidence that the BJP will win the Pokhran seat and blamed the Congress for making the contest "communal" by fielding a Muslim candidate against him. Protection of Hindus and cows has always been an important issue, he said. "Hindutva is in my veins and the party is going to win the election which has been made communal by the Congress by fielding a Muslim candidate against me," the BJP candidate told PTI. Religious leaders should be in politics for its purification, Puri (51), who hails from the influential Rajput community, said. "The people are with the BJP because they have faith in the party's policies and in leaders like Narendra Modi," he said. His Barmer-based 'math', which holds considerable influence in the entire Jodhpur division, is pulling out all stops to win over the electorate, conducting social and religious activities. "We hold drug de-addiction camps, provide education to poor children and work for cow conservation, besides conducting several other social activities," Puri said. The Congress candidate, Mohammad, said his focus was core issues like drinking water and other basic amenities for people in Pokhran, which has a total electorate of 1.94 lakh. "People here face difficulties in getting drinking water and fodder for cattle. The constituency lacks healthcare facilities and I am focusing on that," he said. Mohammad (41) had lost the 2013 assembly elections from the same seat to BJP's Shaitan Singh with a margin of 34,444 votes. Mohammad's father, an octogenarian, boasts of a strong following in the Sindhi Muslim community and has several criminal cases against him. There are an estimated 55,000 Muslim voters, 45,000-48,000 and Rajput voters in Pokhran. It also has around 35,000 Dalit voters, according to the candidates. Pokhran is one of the two assembly constituencies of the desert district of Jaisalmer. The second constituency, Jaisalmer, will also see a direct contest between BJP candidate Sang Singh Bhati and Congress' Roopa Ram. The BJP chose Sang Singh Bhati over its sitting MLA Chotu Singh Bhati, while the Congress has fielded Ram for the second time after 2013. A total of 11 and 18 candidates are in the fray in Pokhran and Jaisalmer respectively.

Rajasthan polls: Religion big factor in Pokhran

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the journalist Gauri Lankesh murder case has submitted the additional charge sheet against 18 accused persons in Special Court for Karnataka Control of Crimes Act (KCOCA).

The deadline for filing the charge sheet was November 27.

The charge sheet is of 9235 pages.

The SIT also sought permission from the Court for further probe.

So far 17 people have been arrested in connection with the case including Amit Degwekar from Goa and Amol Kale from Maharashtra.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in August recovered the pistol used for killing her while investigating the Narendra Dabholkar murder case, thus establishing a connection between the two murders.

The senior journalist was murdered at her house in Bengaluru on September 5 last year in May.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the journalist Gauri Lankesh murder case has submitted the additional charge sheet against 18 accused persons in Special Court for Karnataka Control of Crimes Act (KCOCA).

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the journalist Gauri Lankesh murder case has submitted the additional charge sheet against 18 accused persons in Special Court for Karnataka Control of Crimes Act (KCOCA). The deadline for filing the charge sheet was November 27. The charge sheet is of 9235 pages. The SIT also sought permission from the Court for further probe. So far 17 people have been arrested in connection with the case including Amit Degwekar from Goa and Amol Kale from Maharashtra. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in August recovered the pistol used for killing her while investigating the Narendra Dabholkar murder case, thus establishing a connection between the two murders. The senior journalist was murdered at her house in Bengaluru on September 5 last year in May.

SIT files additional charge sheet in Gauri Lankesh murder case

India and China have agreed to continue the positive trajectory in the relationship and maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the 21st round of talks between the Special Representatives (SR) of two countries on the Boundary Issue.&nbsp;

According to a release by Ministry of External Affairs, "Special Representatives agreed that pending the final resolution of the boundary question, it is important to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas and to ensure that the boundary question does not affect the overall development of the bilateral relationship."&nbsp;

The meet was led by India's special representative and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Dujiangyan, Chengdu in China's Sichuan province. This was the first SR talks after the famous Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier this year.

During the Doval-Wang talks, both recalled the "strategic guidance and support" to their work provided by "the leaders at the Wuhan Summit" and resolved to intensify their efforts to "achieve a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the India-China boundary question" at an early date.

The Special representatives underlined the importance of approaching the boundary question from the "strategic perspective of India-China relations" and agreed that an "early settlement of the boundary question serves the fundamental interests of both countries."

Last year the SR talks took place in Delhi amid the Doklam crisis. The 73-day long Doklam standoff at China, India and Bhutan trijunction had led to conflict between Indian and Chinese forces at the border. This meeting is the first meeting after State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi took over as special representative.

The two Special Representatives also underlined the "importance of sustained and effective implementation of the directions" given by PM Modi and Chinese President and give "due respect for each other’s sensitivities, concerns and aspirations".

<img alt="India China meet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a5c98b3-ef4e-4ff2-a153-9cced292e8df" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/india%20china%202.jpg" />

(Image source: Chinese Foreign Minister)

China led China Pakistan economic corridor which passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir and China not supporting New Delhi's bid for entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group has been a cause of concern for India. India is also worried as China has not been calling on its all-weather ally Pakistan for its support to terror groups.

During the talks, NSA Doval expressed his condolences over the attack on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi and strongly condemned the terrorist attack. The SR talks come ahead of PM Modi-President Xi meet on the sidelines of G20. This is the fourth meeting between the two leaders. The two leaders first met in April for the informal Wuhan summit, followed by meet in Qingdao in June 2018 on the sidelines of SCO and then in Johannesburg in July in the sidelines of BRICS summit. &nbsp;

The SR mechanism was established in 2003.

India and China have agreed to continue the positive trajectory in the relationship and maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the 21st round of talks between the Special Representatives (SR) of two countries on the Boundary Issue.

India and China have agreed to continue the positive trajectory in the relationship and maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the 21st round of talks between the Special Representatives (SR) of two countries on the Boundary Issue. According to a release by Ministry of External Affairs, "Special Representatives agreed that pending the final resolution of the boundary question, it is important to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas and to ensure that the boundary question does not affect the overall development of the bilateral relationship." The meet was led by India's special representative and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Dujiangyan, Chengdu in China's Sichuan province. This was the first SR talks after the famous Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier this year. During the Doval-Wang talks, both recalled the "strategic guidance and support" to their work provided by "the leaders at the Wuhan Summit" and resolved to intensify their efforts to "achieve a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the India-China boundary question" at an early date. The Special representatives underlined the importance of approaching the boundary question from the "strategic perspective of India-China relations" and agreed that an "early settlement of the boundary question serves the fundamental interests of both countries." Last year the SR talks took place in Delhi amid the Doklam crisis. The 73-day long Doklam standoff at China, India and Bhutan trijunction had led to conflict between Indian and Chinese forces at the border. This meeting is the first meeting after State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi took over as special representative. The two Special Representatives also underlined the "importance of sustained and effective implementation of the directions" given by PM Modi and Chinese President and give "due respect for each other’s sensitivities, concerns and aspirations". (Image source: Chinese Foreign Minister) China led China Pakistan economic corridor which passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir and China not supporting New Delhi's bid for entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group has been a cause of concern for India. India is also worried as China has not been calling on its all-weather ally Pakistan for its support to terror groups. During the talks, NSA Doval expressed his condolences over the attack on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi and strongly condemned the terrorist attack. The SR talks come ahead of PM Modi-President Xi meet on the sidelines of G20. This is the fourth meeting between the two leaders. The two leaders first met in April for the informal Wuhan summit, followed by meet in Qingdao in June 2018 on the sidelines of SCO and then in Johannesburg in July in the sidelines of BRICS summit. The SR mechanism was established in 2003.

21st India, China border talks end with both agreeing to maintain peace along the border

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

"During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh.

The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers.

Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added.

The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said.

Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?"

The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal. "During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers. Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added. The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said. Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?" The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.

HAL-made planes dropped bombs in Kargil, yet govt sidelined it: Rahul Gandhi

The Sabarimala shrine witnessed a steady flow of devotees Friday, even as Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan came out in support of a senior IPS officer who was allegedly embroiled in a spat with Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan two days ago.

Backing Superintendent of Police Yatish Chandra, who has been facing backlash from right-wing activists for allegedly insulting Radhakrishnan, Vijayan alleged the Sangh Parivar was "attacking sincere officers to demoralise them."

Amid the stand-off over entry of women of menstrual age into the Lord Ayyappa temple, the State government informed the High Court that two days could be set apart for women pilgrims of all ages to offer prayers at the shrine.

The suggestion was made when the court was hearing a petition moved by four young women devotees seeking protection for women of all age groups to offer prayers at the shrine besides facilities for smooth pilgrimage in the wake of the recent Supreme Court judgement.

The footfalls at the Sabarimala temple, which had witnessed protests against the state government's decision to implement the top court verdict allowing entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine, picked up on Friday.

The police said the temple, which was opened on November 16 for the over-two-month-long pilgrimage season, witnessed comparatively more crowd than on other days.

"We are yet to collate the details," an official at Pamaba police control room told PTI.

Coming out in support of SP Yatish Chandra, Vijayan said the police officer was explaining the "peculiar situation of Sabarimala" to the union minister.

The Bharatiya Janata Party and right-wing activists observed a dawn-to-dusk bandh in Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, stopping Kerala State Road Transport buses plying through the district, protesting the alleged misbehaviour of the officer.

"Only VIP vehicles are allowed to Pamba from Nilackal. This is due to the peculiar situation at Sabarimala. However, the people accompanying the union minister wanted their private vehicles to be allowed till Pamba.

The officer was politely explaining the situation," Vijayan told reporters at Thiruvanathapuram.

"The Sangh Parivar has been attacking police officials who have been doing sincere work to demoralise them," Vijayan said.

Real devotees would never face any issues at Sabarimala, he said, adding that the restrictions were only for the safety and security of the pilgrims.

"A real devotee will never face any kind of trouble at Sabarimala. However, it's the responsibility of the police to detain those who come to the shrine to create trouble. If someone tries to hamper the peace there, police will have to intervene," he said.

He rejected media reports that the Kerala High Court had slammed the government and police for its "high-handedness."

Meanwhile, BJP general secretary K Surendran, whose remand has been extended for 14 more days, alleged that the office of the Chief Minister has been "unleashing" an "orchestrated" campaign to keep him behind bars.

He was taken into custody earlier this week from Nilackal, the base camp of Sabarimala, after he refused to go back despite the police request.

Sixty-nine protesters were arrested after they had held a "nama japam" (chanting Lord Ayyappa mantras) inside the temple complex late on Sunday, defying prohibitory orders.

The Pathanamthitta district administration has extended prohibitory orders clamped in Sabarimala and surrounding areas till November 26. 
Police said that prohibitory orders at Erumeli, about 90 km from Sabarimala, in Kottyam district, have been lifted.

Though over 50 days have gone by since the Supreme Court delivered its historic verdict, no woman or girl in the traditionally barred age group of 10-50 has been able to set foot in the hallowed precincts of the shrine.

The Sabarimala shrine witnessed a steady flow of devotees Friday, even as Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan came out in support of a senior IPS officer who was allegedly embroiled in a spat with Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan two days ago.

The Sabarimala shrine witnessed a steady flow of devotees Friday, even as Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan came out in support of a senior IPS officer who was allegedly embroiled in a spat with Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan two days ago. Backing Superintendent of Police Yatish Chandra, who has been facing backlash from right-wing activists for allegedly insulting Radhakrishnan, Vijayan alleged the Sangh Parivar was "attacking sincere officers to demoralise them." Amid the stand-off over entry of women of menstrual age into the Lord Ayyappa temple, the State government informed the High Court that two days could be set apart for women pilgrims of all ages to offer prayers at the shrine. The suggestion was made when the court was hearing a petition moved by four young women devotees seeking protection for women of all age groups to offer prayers at the shrine besides facilities for smooth pilgrimage in the wake of the recent Supreme Court judgement. The footfalls at the Sabarimala temple, which had witnessed protests against the state government's decision to implement the top court verdict allowing entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine, picked up on Friday. The police said the temple, which was opened on November 16 for the over-two-month-long pilgrimage season, witnessed comparatively more crowd than on other days. "We are yet to collate the details," an official at Pamaba police control room told PTI. Coming out in support of SP Yatish Chandra, Vijayan said the police officer was explaining the "peculiar situation of Sabarimala" to the union minister. The Bharatiya Janata Party and right-wing activists observed a dawn-to-dusk bandh in Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, stopping Kerala State Road Transport buses plying through the district, protesting the alleged misbehaviour of the officer. "Only VIP vehicles are allowed to Pamba from Nilackal. This is due to the peculiar situation at Sabarimala. However, the people accompanying the union minister wanted their private vehicles to be allowed till Pamba. The officer was politely explaining the situation," Vijayan told reporters at Thiruvanathapuram. "The Sangh Parivar has been attacking police officials who have been doing sincere work to demoralise them," Vijayan said. Real devotees would never face any issues at Sabarimala, he said, adding that the restrictions were only for the safety and security of the pilgrims. "A real devotee will never face any kind of trouble at Sabarimala. However, it's the responsibility of the police to detain those who come to the shrine to create trouble. If someone tries to hamper the peace there, police will have to intervene," he said. He rejected media reports that the Kerala High Court had slammed the government and police for its "high-handedness." Meanwhile, BJP general secretary K Surendran, whose remand has been extended for 14 more days, alleged that the office of the Chief Minister has been "unleashing" an "orchestrated" campaign to keep him behind bars. He was taken into custody earlier this week from Nilackal, the base camp of Sabarimala, after he refused to go back despite the police request. Sixty-nine protesters were arrested after they had held a "nama japam" (chanting Lord Ayyappa mantras) inside the temple complex late on Sunday, defying prohibitory orders. The Pathanamthitta district administration has extended prohibitory orders clamped in Sabarimala and surrounding areas till November 26. Police said that prohibitory orders at Erumeli, about 90 km from Sabarimala, in Kottyam district, have been lifted. Though over 50 days have gone by since the Supreme Court delivered its historic verdict, no woman or girl in the traditionally barred age group of 10-50 has been able to set foot in the hallowed precincts of the shrine.

Steady flow of pilgrims at shrine, CM slams sangh parivar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not.

The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy.

A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas.

Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party.

"Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us.

"But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said.

The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not. The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy. A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas. Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party. "Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us. "But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said. The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Had Vallabhbhai Patel been PM, farmers would not have been ruined: PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mary-kom-wins-record-sixth-gold-medal-in-womens-world-championships-179144">Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships</a>

Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">Modi </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">linkens</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154"> farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule&nbsp;</a>

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-congress-lacks-a-stand-on-ayodhya-dispute-bjp-pitches-a-political-narrative-on-it-179142">As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it</a>

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-at-fuel-price-protesters-179140">French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters</a>

Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">United</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157"> States</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals".

Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday. She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal. Modi linkens farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule. As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6. French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France. Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against United States Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata".

Raje said that the Congress leaders only respect United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and no one else.

Further slamming Gandhi, the Rajasthan Chief Minister said that the Congress party worked for eliminating poor but has done nothing to remove poverty.

"For 50 years they reiterated the slogan of `Garibi Hatao` but have done nothing for it rather they eliminated poor," she said.

"You all have no problem in saying Bharat Mata ki Jai but Congress people do have a problem in saying it. It`s because they only consider Sonia Gandhi as their mother and have no regard for Bharat Mata," she said.

She also underscored that the Congress had only created the divide in the society in the name of religion and caste.

"What Congress did was to pitch people against each other in name of religion, caste, and whatnot. Congress did the politics of divide and rule," she said.

Assembly polls in Rajasthan are slated for December 7 and over 2,000 candidates are in the fray.&nbsp;

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata".

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata". Raje said that the Congress leaders only respect United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and no one else. Further slamming Gandhi, the Rajasthan Chief Minister said that the Congress party worked for eliminating poor but has done nothing to remove poverty. "For 50 years they reiterated the slogan of `Garibi Hatao` but have done nothing for it rather they eliminated poor," she said. "You all have no problem in saying Bharat Mata ki Jai but Congress people do have a problem in saying it. It`s because they only consider Sonia Gandhi as their mother and have no regard for Bharat Mata," she said. She also underscored that the Congress had only created the divide in the society in the name of religion and caste. "What Congress did was to pitch people against each other in name of religion, caste, and whatnot. Congress did the politics of divide and rule," she said. Assembly polls in Rajasthan are slated for December 7 and over 2,000 candidates are in the fray.

Congress leaders have no regard for 'Bharat Mata': Rajasthan CM Raje

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the people in the city to be cautious while clicking a selfie and not drive at a high speed on the newly-opened Signature Bridge.

The chief minister made the request as three people have died in accident on the bridge in the last two days.

"I am extremely concerned about the accidents on Signature Bridge. It is the pride of Delhi. It is my appeal to all the people, especially the youth, to be careful while clicking selfies on the Signature Bridge and not drive vehicles at a high speed. Your life is precious to the country and for your parents," Kejriwal tweeted.

A 24-year-old man was killed and his cousin injured after their motorcycle skidded and hit a road divider on the Signature Bridge Saturday, a day after two medical students died in a crash there.&nbsp;

On Friday morning, the two students on a bike were killed after ramming into a divider and falling from 30 feet.

With two accidents in two days and reports of people scaling its boundaries to take selfies, the Signature Bridge has been in the limelight since its inauguration by Kejriwal on November 4.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the people in the city to be cautious while clicking a selfie and not drive at a high speed on the newly-opened Signature Bridge.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the people in the city to be cautious while clicking a selfie and not drive at a high speed on the newly-opened Signature Bridge. The chief minister made the request as three people have died in accident on the bridge in the last two days. "I am extremely concerned about the accidents on Signature Bridge. It is the pride of Delhi. It is my appeal to all the people, especially the youth, to be careful while clicking selfies on the Signature Bridge and not drive vehicles at a high speed. Your life is precious to the country and for your parents," Kejriwal tweeted. A 24-year-old man was killed and his cousin injured after their motorcycle skidded and hit a road divider on the Signature Bridge Saturday, a day after two medical students died in a crash there. On Friday morning, the two students on a bike were killed after ramming into a divider and falling from 30 feet. With two accidents in two days and reports of people scaling its boundaries to take selfies, the Signature Bridge has been in the limelight since its inauguration by Kejriwal on November 4.

Careful while clicking selfie on signature bridge: Kejriwal to people

Arriving here ahead of a planned VHP rally for a Ram temple, Shiv Sena Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray asked the Narendra Modi government on Saturday to spell out the date when it will be constructed.&nbsp;

Day, months, years and generations have passed,? he said. Mandir wahin baneyenge, par date nahin batayenge (You say you will make the temple there, but won't tell the date),? he said.

First, say when will you construct the temple, the rest we will talk later, he said in what sounded like a dare to the Bharatiya Janata Party government ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections.

Thackeray arrived in Ayodhya for a two-day visit, which he claimed was not political. 
&nbsp;

Arriving here ahead of a planned VHP rally for a Ram temple, Shiv Sena Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray asked the Narendra Modi government on Saturday to spell out the date when it will be constructed.

Arriving here ahead of a planned VHP rally for a Ram temple, Shiv Sena Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray asked the Narendra Modi government on Saturday to spell out the date when it will be constructed. Day, months, years and generations have passed,? he said. Mandir wahin baneyenge, par date nahin batayenge (You say you will make the temple there, but won't tell the date),? he said. First, say when will you construct the temple, the rest we will talk later, he said in what sounded like a dare to the Bharatiya Janata Party government ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections. Thackeray arrived in Ayodhya for a two-day visit, which he claimed was not political.

Spell out the date for Ram temple construction: Uddhav Thackeray

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said.

While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI.

Those arrested in Bhansi area were identified as Meena Telam (22), who was active as in charge of "area supply team" of the Maoists, Manglo Telam (25)- a member of Mirtur LOS (local organisation squad) and Bhima Kunjam (25)- a member of the Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisaan Majdoor Sangathan (a front outfit of Maoists), Pallava said.

All three were associated with the Bhairamgarh "area committee" of the Maoists, he said.

He said the three were involved in torching two passenger buses and a truck on Bhansi-Dantewada road on August 8 this year in which one person was killed.

Besides, the trio were also involved in damaging railway tracks, putting up Maoist banners and posters and arranging meetings for them, he added.

Meena was carrying a reward of Rs 3 lakh on her head while Rs 1 lakh was announced for the arrest of Manglo, he said.

In another operation, a Maoist "jan militia commander" Dashman Kawasi (45), with a reward of Rs 1 lakh on his head, was apprehended near Mangnar road in Barsoor area, the official said.&nbsp;

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said. While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI.

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said. While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI. Those arrested in Bhansi area were identified as Meena Telam (22), who was active as in charge of "area supply team" of the Maoists, Manglo Telam (25)- a member of Mirtur LOS (local organisation squad) and Bhima Kunjam (25)- a member of the Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisaan Majdoor Sangathan (a front outfit of Maoists), Pallava said. All three were associated with the Bhairamgarh "area committee" of the Maoists, he said. He said the three were involved in torching two passenger buses and a truck on Bhansi-Dantewada road on August 8 this year in which one person was killed. Besides, the trio were also involved in damaging railway tracks, putting up Maoist banners and posters and arranging meetings for them, he added. Meena was carrying a reward of Rs 3 lakh on her head while Rs 1 lakh was announced for the arrest of Manglo, he said. In another operation, a Maoist "jan militia commander" Dashman Kawasi (45), with a reward of Rs 1 lakh on his head, was apprehended near Mangnar road in Barsoor area, the official said.

4 Naxals, including 2 women, arrested in Chhattisgarh Dantewada

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Saturday due to increased wind speed, favourable for dispersion of pollutants, and settled in the 'poor' category, authorities said.

The overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 244 which falls in the 'poor' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

As many as 31 areas in the national capital recorded 'poor' air quality while four areas recorded 'moderate' air quality, the data said.

The level of PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 119 and the PM10 level was recorded at 238, it said.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded poor air quality.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality has improved due to higher wind speed.

The Particulate Matter (PM) concentration is likely to reduce owing to increased wind speed and air quality is likely to be in poor category, it said.

Humidity in the city is high which is slightly unfavourable and stubble fire will have marginal impact, it said.

According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR), at present, wind speed is moderate and partially good for air quality which may decline anytime by late night, humidity continued to be high owing to mist and temperature is likely to be cool.&nbsp;

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Saturday due to increased wind speed, favourable for dispersion of pollutants, and settled in the 'poor' category, authorities said.

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Saturday due to increased wind speed, favourable for dispersion of pollutants, and settled in the 'poor' category, authorities said. The overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 244 which falls in the 'poor' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. As many as 31 areas in the national capital recorded 'poor' air quality while four areas recorded 'moderate' air quality, the data said. The level of PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 119 and the PM10 level was recorded at 238, it said. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded poor air quality. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality has improved due to higher wind speed. The Particulate Matter (PM) concentration is likely to reduce owing to increased wind speed and air quality is likely to be in poor category, it said. Humidity in the city is high which is slightly unfavourable and stubble fire will have marginal impact, it said. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR), at present, wind speed is moderate and partially good for air quality which may decline anytime by late night, humidity continued to be high owing to mist and temperature is likely to be cool.

Delhi's air quality shows slight improvement with increased wind speed

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the government does not need any extra funds from the Reserve Bank or any other institution to meet the fiscal deficit target.

However, he added that extra funds, which may accrue from the new capital framework of the Reserve Bank, can always be used for poverty alleviation programmes over the years by future governments.

"We don't need any extra funds from any other institution to finance our fiscal deficit. Let's be very clear that's not the intention of the government. And we are not saying that in next six months give me some money. I don't need it, the minister said in an interview to TV channel Times Now.

India's fiscal deficit is slated to come down to 3.3 per cent of GDP at the end of the current fiscal.

Responding to criticism that the government was eyeing RBI's reserves, Jaitley said globally central banks have a capital framework which determines the amount of funds that ought to be maintained as reserves.

"All we are saying is there has to be some discussion and some norms under which Reserve Bank will have a capital framework," he said, adding that surplus funds could be used for poverty alleviation programmes by future governments over the next several years.

The RBI board at its meeting earlier in the month decided to set up a high-level committee for examining the Economic Capital Framework (ECF) to determine the appropriate levels of reserve the central bank should hold.

The RBI is reported to be holding a massive Rs 9.59 lakh crore of reserves.

Answering questions with regard to the autonomy of the Reserve Bank, Jaitley said it has to be exercised within the framework of law.

"The government's viewpoint is that we respect and we will always maintain the autonomy within the framework of the laws which have been laid down," he said.

The government, Jaitley added, would continue to flag issues with the Reserve Bank in the larger interest of the economy, and there has to be coordination between the central bank and the government.

"If there are sectors of economy which are starved of liquidity or credit, as a sovereign government... We certainly will flag those issues wherever the RBI has the authority to decide certain things," the minister said, adding there is no institutional failure.

He further said that during the Congress-led UPA regime, fiscal deficit went as high as 6 per cent of the GDP.

"We inherited a 4.6 per cent fiscal deficit. This government since 1947 in five-year tenure has the best record of fiscal prudence that any government has. From 4.6 per cent this year we are going to bring it down to 3.3 per cent," he added.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the government does not need any extra funds from the Reserve Bank or any other institution to meet the fiscal deficit target.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the government does not need any extra funds from the Reserve Bank or any other institution to meet the fiscal deficit target. However, he added that extra funds, which may accrue from the new capital framework of the Reserve Bank, can always be used for poverty alleviation programmes over the years by future governments. "We don't need any extra funds from any other institution to finance our fiscal deficit. Let's be very clear that's not the intention of the government. And we are not saying that in next six months give me some money. I don't need it, the minister said in an interview to TV channel Times Now. India's fiscal deficit is slated to come down to 3.3 per cent of GDP at the end of the current fiscal. Responding to criticism that the government was eyeing RBI's reserves, Jaitley said globally central banks have a capital framework which determines the amount of funds that ought to be maintained as reserves. "All we are saying is there has to be some discussion and some norms under which Reserve Bank will have a capital framework," he said, adding that surplus funds could be used for poverty alleviation programmes by future governments over the next several years. The RBI board at its meeting earlier in the month decided to set up a high-level committee for examining the Economic Capital Framework (ECF) to determine the appropriate levels of reserve the central bank should hold. The RBI is reported to be holding a massive Rs 9.59 lakh crore of reserves. Answering questions with regard to the autonomy of the Reserve Bank, Jaitley said it has to be exercised within the framework of law. "The government's viewpoint is that we respect and we will always maintain the autonomy within the framework of the laws which have been laid down," he said. The government, Jaitley added, would continue to flag issues with the Reserve Bank in the larger interest of the economy, and there has to be coordination between the central bank and the government. "If there are sectors of economy which are starved of liquidity or credit, as a sovereign government... We certainly will flag those issues wherever the RBI has the authority to decide certain things," the minister said, adding there is no institutional failure. He further said that during the Congress-led UPA regime, fiscal deficit went as high as 6 per cent of the GDP. "We inherited a 4.6 per cent fiscal deficit. This government since 1947 in five-year tenure has the best record of fiscal prudence that any government has. From 4.6 per cent this year we are going to bring it down to 3.3 per cent," he added.

Govt does not need extra funds from RBI to meet fiscal deficit target: Arun Jaitley

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule.&nbsp;

''If Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel would had become the first prime minister of India, the condition of farmers that have deteriorated due to the misrule of Congress in 55-60 years wouldn't have happened. The farmers of our country would have been strong,'' Modi said.&nbsp;

Congress is dividing the people, Modi alleged and said recently, videos of a senior Congress leader has surfaced on social media wherein he was seeking votes from particular groups. Such a thing is not acceptable. It is a disrespect of democracy, Modi said.&nbsp;

Congress manufactures and spreads lies, Modi alleged and added Indira Gandhi Ji gave the slogan of 'Garibi Hatao' but could not eliminate poverty.&nbsp;

She nationalised banks and said the poor would benefit from it, but what happened? So many people did not even have accounts, Modi said.&nbsp;

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule. ''If Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel would had become the first prime minister of India, the condition of farmers that have deteriorated due to the misrule of Congress in 55-60 years wouldn't have happened. The farmers of our country would have been strong,'' Modi said. Congress is dividing the people, Modi alleged and said recently, videos of a senior Congress leader has surfaced on social media wherein he was seeking votes from particular groups. Such a thing is not acceptable. It is a disrespect of democracy, Modi said. Congress manufactures and spreads lies, Modi alleged and added Indira Gandhi Ji gave the slogan of 'Garibi Hatao' but could not eliminate poverty. She nationalised banks and said the poor would benefit from it, but what happened? So many people did not even have accounts, Modi said.

Modi linkens farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule 

AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, has said his party was supporting the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) to ensure that it emerges as an alternative force to the Congress and BJP in the coming elections.

Addressing multiple election rallies here on Friday, he sought to know if there were only two parties, Congress and BJP, and said, "We will fight it out against both Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Not just two, there should be three or four (parties). If one (party) throws attitude then we will not hesitate to place our hand on the other," he said in an apparent reference to the TRS.

Akbaruddin, seeking re-election from Chandrayangutta segment, further said (previous) Chief Ministers have always sought the support of AIMIM and the party would be the kingmaker again in the upcoming elections.&nbsp; 
Slamming the Congress for questioning development works by his party in Old Hyderabad, Akbaruddin said, "According to them if we support Congress we are secular and when we oppose we are (pro) BJP.

Similarly, if we oppose Narendra Modi then we are anti-nationals," he said. 
Listing out the developmental works by AIMIM, Akbaruddin said, "It is only due to the various works carried out by the MIM there is development in the areas and hence the value of property and land rates have gone up."&nbsp;

AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, has said his party was supporting the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) to ensure that it emerges as an alternative force to the Congress and BJP in the coming elections.

AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, has said his party was supporting the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) to ensure that it emerges as an alternative force to the Congress and BJP in the coming elections. Addressing multiple election rallies here on Friday, he sought to know if there were only two parties, Congress and BJP, and said, "We will fight it out against both Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Not just two, there should be three or four (parties). If one (party) throws attitude then we will not hesitate to place our hand on the other," he said in an apparent reference to the TRS. Akbaruddin, seeking re-election from Chandrayangutta segment, further said (previous) Chief Ministers have always sought the support of AIMIM and the party would be the kingmaker again in the upcoming elections. Slamming the Congress for questioning development works by his party in Old Hyderabad, Akbaruddin said, "According to them if we support Congress we are secular and when we oppose we are (pro) BJP. Similarly, if we oppose Narendra Modi then we are anti-nationals," he said. Listing out the developmental works by AIMIM, Akbaruddin said, "It is only due to the various works carried out by the MIM there is development in the areas and hence the value of property and land rates have gone up."

Supporting TRS to ensure it emerges as alternative to BJP, Cong: Akbaruddin Owaisi

Kashmir region recorded 34 per cent polling while Jammu registered 59 per cent till noon in the third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir panchayat elections, official said.

The polling began at 8 am and ended at 2 pm in 2,773 polling stations, including 918 in Kashmir division and 1,855 in Jammu division, officials said.

Poonch district in Jammu region recorded the highest polling of 67 per cent, while Ganderbal district in central Kashmir recorded the lowest at 9.2 per cent, they said.

Among other districts of Jammu division, they said Kathua, Ramban and Rajouri witnessed 62.5, 62.2 and 61 per cent polling, respectively. It was followed by Doda (52.3) and Kishtwar (51.1).

In Kashmir division, Bandipora district topped the turnout chart with 40.3 per cent, followed by Kupaware with 39.3 per cent, Badgam 33.1 per cent, Baramulla 20.1 per cent, Kargil 52.5 per cent and Leh 40.1 per cent, they said.

The officials said 727 polling stations have been categorised as hypersensitive, including 493 in Kashmir division and 234 in Jammu division, for the third phase.

They said 5,239 candidates are in the fray for 358 sarpanch and 1,652 panch seats. Ninety-six sarpanchs and 1,437 panchs have been elected unopposed in this phase, they added.

The officials said an electorate of 4,23,592 are eligible for voting for sarpanch constituencies while 2,70,668 for panch constituencies.

They said all arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the polls.

The nine-phased elections, being conducted on the non-party basis, began on November 17.

In the first phase of the polls, 74.1 per cent polling was recorded across the state, including 64.5 per cent in Kashmir division and 79.4 per cent in&nbsp; 
Jammu division.

In the second phase held on November 20, overall 71.1 per cent polling was witnessed across the state with 80.4 per cent in Jammu division and 52.2 per cent in Kashmir division.&nbsp;

Kashmir region recorded 34 per cent polling while Jammu registered 59 per cent till noon in the third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir panchayat elections, official said.

Kashmir region recorded 34 per cent polling while Jammu registered 59 per cent till noon in the third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir panchayat elections, official said. The polling began at 8 am and ended at 2 pm in 2,773 polling stations, including 918 in Kashmir division and 1,855 in Jammu division, officials said. Poonch district in Jammu region recorded the highest polling of 67 per cent, while Ganderbal district in central Kashmir recorded the lowest at 9.2 per cent, they said. Among other districts of Jammu division, they said Kathua, Ramban and Rajouri witnessed 62.5, 62.2 and 61 per cent polling, respectively. It was followed by Doda (52.3) and Kishtwar (51.1). In Kashmir division, Bandipora district topped the turnout chart with 40.3 per cent, followed by Kupaware with 39.3 per cent, Badgam 33.1 per cent, Baramulla 20.1 per cent, Kargil 52.5 per cent and Leh 40.1 per cent, they said. The officials said 727 polling stations have been categorised as hypersensitive, including 493 in Kashmir division and 234 in Jammu division, for the third phase. They said 5,239 candidates are in the fray for 358 sarpanch and 1,652 panch seats. Ninety-six sarpanchs and 1,437 panchs have been elected unopposed in this phase, they added. The officials said an electorate of 4,23,592 are eligible for voting for sarpanch constituencies while 2,70,668 for panch constituencies. They said all arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the polls. The nine-phased elections, being conducted on the non-party basis, began on November 17. In the first phase of the polls, 74.1 per cent polling was recorded across the state, including 64.5 per cent in Kashmir division and 79.4 per cent in Jammu division. In the second phase held on November 20, overall 71.1 per cent polling was witnessed across the state with 80.4 per cent in Jammu division and 52.2 per cent in Kashmir division.

Panchayat polls: Kashmir region records 34%, Jammu 59% till noon

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28.

"Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said.

Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back.&nbsp;

The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later.

The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members.

"When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said.

"He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said.

"Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts. The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28. "Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said. Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back. The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later. The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members. "When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said. "He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said. "Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.

Modi 'betrayed' people on promises of jobs, 'depositing' Rs 15 lakh in accounts: Rahul Gandhi

Ten days after the terror attack on Nirankari Bhawan in Rajasansi area on November 13 in Amritsar district of Punjab in which 3 people were killed and nearly 20 others were injured, four suspected 'terrorists'&nbsp;were spotted in Pathankot's Saidipur village on Friday night, prompting the state police to launch a massive search operation.

Residents of Saidipur village claimed to have spotted suspicious movement of around four people, suspected to be `terrorists.` Police have also recovered an abandoned white Alto car, which was found around 25 km away from Pathankot, near Bamiyal area.&nbsp;

The car was also spotted by the villagers.

Police said, "We have cordoned off the area. Search is on. We have appealed to the people to give us any relevant information if they have and cooperate with us. The abandoned car can`t yet be linked to the suspicious men. A probe in this regard is on separately." Police have, however, confirmed that the car carries the registration number of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to police, Balbir Singh, a resident from Saidipur village, saw three to four suspicious men on Friday night. He first informed the village sarpanch in this regard.&nbsp;

Then the police were told about the incident, which immediately rushed to the spot and began the search operation after cordoning off the area.

It is worth mentioning that last week the Punjab Police launched massive search operations after its counter-intelligence wing informed that some Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists reportedly entered Delhi from the state.

In 2016, terrorists had attacked Pathankot Airbase after snatching the car of a police officer. Seven people had been killed in the attack. Earlier in July 2015 too, terrorists had attacked Dinanagar town in the neighbouring district of Gurdaspur district.&nbsp;

It is noteworthy that Saidipur village where four suspected 'terrorists' were spotted is just 13 km away from Pakistan border.

Ten days after the terror attack on Nirankari Bhawan in Rajasansi area on November 13 in Amritsar district of Punjab in which 3 people were killed and nearly 20 others were injured, four suspected 'terrorists' were spotted in Pathankot's Saidipur village on Friday night, prompting the state police to launch a massive search operation.

Ten days after the terror attack on Nirankari Bhawan in Rajasansi area on November 13 in Amritsar district of Punjab in which 3 people were killed and nearly 20 others were injured, four suspected 'terrorists' were spotted in Pathankot's Saidipur village on Friday night, prompting the state police to launch a massive search operation. Residents of Saidipur village claimed to have spotted suspicious movement of around four people, suspected to be `terrorists.` Police have also recovered an abandoned white Alto car, which was found around 25 km away from Pathankot, near Bamiyal area. The car was also spotted by the villagers. Police said, "We have cordoned off the area. Search is on. We have appealed to the people to give us any relevant information if they have and cooperate with us. The abandoned car can`t yet be linked to the suspicious men. A probe in this regard is on separately." Police have, however, confirmed that the car carries the registration number of Jammu and Kashmir. According to police, Balbir Singh, a resident from Saidipur village, saw three to four suspicious men on Friday night. He first informed the village sarpanch in this regard. Then the police were told about the incident, which immediately rushed to the spot and began the search operation after cordoning off the area. It is worth mentioning that last week the Punjab Police launched massive search operations after its counter-intelligence wing informed that some Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists reportedly entered Delhi from the state. In 2016, terrorists had attacked Pathankot Airbase after snatching the car of a police officer. Seven people had been killed in the attack. Earlier in July 2015 too, terrorists had attacked Dinanagar town in the neighbouring district of Gurdaspur district. It is noteworthy that Saidipur village where four suspected 'terrorists' were spotted is just 13 km away from Pakistan border.

Four suspicious men found in Pathankot, search operation launched

The Himachal Pradesh Police Saturday threatened to take action against those spreading rumours that suspected terrorists have entered the hill-state from Pathankot, Punjab, a senior official said.

In a press note issued by Atul Fulzele DIG HP Police Northern Range, he said, "It appears that rumour mongers are spreading the news that 5 to 7 suspected terrorists have been seen travelling in a Pathankot-Dharamshala passenger bus on 23 November."

"It is being done to create panic among people of Himachal. HP Police is contemplating legal action against the persons who are spreading unconfirmed, unfounded and baseless news on social media," he added.

The DIG said a notice was likely to be issued to web news portals who have published such news with false confirmation from security agencies.

Fulzele clarified that they had no intelligence input regarding sneaking of suspected terrorist in the state via Pathankot.

The Himachal Pradesh Police Saturday threatened to take action against those spreading rumours that suspected terrorists have entered the hill-state from Pathankot, Punjab, a senior official said.

The Himachal Pradesh Police Saturday threatened to take action against those spreading rumours that suspected terrorists have entered the hill-state from Pathankot, Punjab, a senior official said. In a press note issued by Atul Fulzele DIG HP Police Northern Range, he said, "It appears that rumour mongers are spreading the news that 5 to 7 suspected terrorists have been seen travelling in a Pathankot-Dharamshala passenger bus on 23 November." "It is being done to create panic among people of Himachal. HP Police is contemplating legal action against the persons who are spreading unconfirmed, unfounded and baseless news on social media," he added. The DIG said a notice was likely to be issued to web news portals who have published such news with false confirmation from security agencies. Fulzele clarified that they had no intelligence input regarding sneaking of suspected terrorist in the state via Pathankot.

Himachal Police to crackdown on those spreading rumours of terrorist movement

Former Union Minister and Congress P Chidambaram in his rejoinder in the Aircel-Maxis case stated that no offence was committed in the grant of FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval.&nbsp;

"Approval was granted on basis of deliberation in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board and recommendations of the FIPB that was put up to the Finance Minister (P Chidambaram) in the Normal course of official business," the reply further said.&nbsp;

He ruled out CBI's charges of ''illegal gratification'' and ''conspiracy''.

Describing CBI's allegations ''unfounded'', the former finance minister said ''CBI had no hesitation in making false allegations against me and summoning me for questioning''.&nbsp;

Chidambaram alleged that no evidence has been submitted by the CBI in support of its unfounded allegation that the applicant may tamper with the witnesses or evidence, reads the rejoinder.

Chidambaram called CBI allegation that the applicant is an influential person and may influence witnesses and tamper with evidence, he said, "above contentions of CBI is false, speculative, bereft of the details and untenable."

Former Union Minister and Congress P Chidambaram in his rejoinder in the Aircel-Maxis case stated that no offence was committed in the grant of FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval.

Former Union Minister and Congress P Chidambaram in his rejoinder in the Aircel-Maxis case stated that no offence was committed in the grant of FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval. "Approval was granted on basis of deliberation in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board and recommendations of the FIPB that was put up to the Finance Minister (P Chidambaram) in the Normal course of official business," the reply further said. He ruled out CBI's charges of ''illegal gratification'' and ''conspiracy''. Describing CBI's allegations ''unfounded'', the former finance minister said ''CBI had no hesitation in making false allegations against me and summoning me for questioning''. Chidambaram alleged that no evidence has been submitted by the CBI in support of its unfounded allegation that the applicant may tamper with the witnesses or evidence, reads the rejoinder. Chidambaram called CBI allegation that the applicant is an influential person and may influence witnesses and tamper with evidence, he said, "above contentions of CBI is false, speculative, bereft of the details and untenable."

Aircel-Maxis case: Chidambaram describes CBI's allegations 'unfounded' 

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris.

The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges.

"If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here.

The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections.

"But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added.

"The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said.

She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule).

To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court.

She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so.

Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28.

"It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement. Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris. The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges. "If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here. The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections. "But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added. "The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said. She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule). To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court. She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so. Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28. "It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Sitharaman to Rahul Gandhi: Meet AK Antony to understand Rafale buy process

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