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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre.

Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate".

PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state.

Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress".

PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said.

"In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected. Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre. Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate". PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state. Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress". PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said. "In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Make sure no Congress candidate is elected: PM Narendra Modi to Madhya Pradesh voters

The Asiatic elephants will now be treated in a &nbsp;world-class hospital facility. Hunted and abused for decades, &nbsp;India's elephants struggled to get the required treatment. However, Wildlife SOS, an NGO that helps in conservation and care of elephants has set up a hospital dedicated to the beautiful pachyderms of India.&nbsp;

All major facilities such as wireless digital x-ray, thermal imaging, ultrasonography, tranquilization devices and quarantine facilities are available in the hospital. Earlier elephants requiring critical care were being treated at wildlife SOS care and conservation centre where doctors were working round the clock to restore their health.&nbsp;

On the outskirts of Mathura, this elephant hospital is spread over 12,000 square feet and is designed to treat injured, sick or geriatric elephants.&nbsp;

Geeta Seshamani, co-founder of Wildlife SOS says, "I think by building a hospital we are underlining the fact that elephants need welfare measures as much as any other animal. Captive elephants are not meant to be used and abused but instead have to be given the respect which an animal needs if you are going to be using the animal".&nbsp;

Government data shows India’s elephant population fell to 27,312 in 2017 from 29,391-30,711 in 2012. For decades elephants in India have been poached, tortured or whipped around in either circus rings. Wildlife SOS has been rescuing old and injured captive elephants most of the time just left to die surrounded in their faeces and blood.&nbsp;
<img alt="The elephant hospital can treat up to 10 elephants in one go and after the treatment, they will be moved to the care centre which currently houses 22 rescued elephants. " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4688dcf5-52ca-4113-8b83-74389ac6220c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20Elephant%20Hospital%20is%20equipped%20with%20state%20of%20the%20art%20veterinary%20facilitites.jpg" />
However, the need for a specialised ambulance for elephants was the need of the hour. The road to freedom for rescued pachyderms had not always been a smooth one, and the trucks hired for the purpose of transporting these animals from the area of their rescue to the safe haven at the elephant conservation care Centre had not always been ideal for the long, rough and tedious journey.&nbsp;

The team of experts at wildlife SOS conceived the idea of designing India’s first elephant ambulance, built keeping in mind to provide maximum comfort to the pachyderms. The ambulance has a specially designed carrier and an inclined roof, automatic electric hydraulic ramp, showers, dual power supply and a designated room for the veterinary team with washing and treatment preparation area.&nbsp;

"The facility will allow us to take better care, and gradually develop as a destination for humane management of elephants," says Wildlife SOS CEO Katick Satyanarayan.

<img alt="All major facilities such as wireless digital x-ray, thermal imaging, ultrasonography, tranquilization devices and quarantine facilities are available in the hospital" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8fbc60c-044d-4494-8f22-4f96f69d3e75" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20Elephant%20Restraining%20Device%20at%20the%20hospital.jpg" />

The elephant hospital can treat up to 10 elephants in one go and after the treatment, they will be moved to the care centre which currently houses 22 rescued elephants.&nbsp;

Many are of the belief that for decades India's elephants have paid a heavy price for our entertainment, it's now time to care of the beautiful pachyderms in the way they truly deserve.&nbsp;

The Asiatic elephants will now be treated in a world-class hospital facility. Hunted and abused for decades, India's elephants struggled to get the required treatment.

The Asiatic elephants will now be treated in a world-class hospital facility. Hunted and abused for decades, India's elephants struggled to get the required treatment. However, Wildlife SOS, an NGO that helps in conservation and care of elephants has set up a hospital dedicated to the beautiful pachyderms of India. All major facilities such as wireless digital x-ray, thermal imaging, ultrasonography, tranquilization devices and quarantine facilities are available in the hospital. Earlier elephants requiring critical care were being treated at wildlife SOS care and conservation centre where doctors were working round the clock to restore their health. On the outskirts of Mathura, this elephant hospital is spread over 12,000 square feet and is designed to treat injured, sick or geriatric elephants. Geeta Seshamani, co-founder of Wildlife SOS says, "I think by building a hospital we are underlining the fact that elephants need welfare measures as much as any other animal. Captive elephants are not meant to be used and abused but instead have to be given the respect which an animal needs if you are going to be using the animal". Government data shows India’s elephant population fell to 27,312 in 2017 from 29,391-30,711 in 2012. For decades elephants in India have been poached, tortured or whipped around in either circus rings. Wildlife SOS has been rescuing old and injured captive elephants most of the time just left to die surrounded in their faeces and blood. However, the need for a specialised ambulance for elephants was the need of the hour. The road to freedom for rescued pachyderms had not always been a smooth one, and the trucks hired for the purpose of transporting these animals from the area of their rescue to the safe haven at the elephant conservation care Centre had not always been ideal for the long, rough and tedious journey. The team of experts at wildlife SOS conceived the idea of designing India’s first elephant ambulance, built keeping in mind to provide maximum comfort to the pachyderms. The ambulance has a specially designed carrier and an inclined roof, automatic electric hydraulic ramp, showers, dual power supply and a designated room for the veterinary team with washing and treatment preparation area. "The facility will allow us to take better care, and gradually develop as a destination for humane management of elephants," says Wildlife SOS CEO Katick Satyanarayan. The elephant hospital can treat up to 10 elephants in one go and after the treatment, they will be moved to the care centre which currently houses 22 rescued elephants. Many are of the belief that for decades India's elephants have paid a heavy price for our entertainment, it's now time to care of the beautiful pachyderms in the way they truly deserve.

Now, pachyderms will get the care they deserve as India gets its first 'elephant hospital'

Delhi's Tis Hazari Court on Wednesday sent the accused in the chilli powder attack case on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to 14-day&nbsp;judicial custody, reported news agency ANI. &nbsp;

The shocking incident took place inside the Delhi Secretariat on Tuesday when a man flung chilli powder at Kejriwal outside his office. The chief minister's spectacles broke but he was not injured in the attack.

The accused Anil Kumar Sharma,&nbsp;a resident of Delhi's Narayana, hid the chilli powder in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that the BJP leadership had knowledge of the attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the opposition party wants the latter eliminated to stop him from working for the people.

"(Union) Home Minister Rajnath Singh called Kejriwal and asked him to file a complaint in the attack on him. Is this the way an attack on a chief minister should be probed?" Sisodia asked at a press conference.

Sharma's Facebook profile shows that he is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he said.

The deputy chief minister also lashed out at the Delhi Police, alleging it was acting on the behest of the BJP and trying to save the culprit.

Even 24 hours after the attack, Delhi's Lt Governor has not reacted on it. This means that he also knew about it, Sisodia alleged.

Delhi's Tis Hazari Court on Wednesday sent the accused in the chilli powder attack case on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to 14-day judicial custody, reported news agency ANI.

Delhi's Tis Hazari Court on Wednesday sent the accused in the chilli powder attack case on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to 14-day judicial custody, reported news agency ANI. The shocking incident took place inside the Delhi Secretariat on Tuesday when a man flung chilli powder at Kejriwal outside his office. The chief minister's spectacles broke but he was not injured in the attack. The accused Anil Kumar Sharma, a resident of Delhi's Narayana, hid the chilli powder in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that the BJP leadership had knowledge of the attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the opposition party wants the latter eliminated to stop him from working for the people. "(Union) Home Minister Rajnath Singh called Kejriwal and asked him to file a complaint in the attack on him. Is this the way an attack on a chief minister should be probed?" Sisodia asked at a press conference. Sharma's Facebook profile shows that he is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he said. The deputy chief minister also lashed out at the Delhi Police, alleging it was acting on the behest of the BJP and trying to save the culprit. Even 24 hours after the attack, Delhi's Lt Governor has not reacted on it. This means that he also knew about it, Sisodia alleged.

Chilli powder attack on Kejriwal: Accused sent to 14-day judicial custody 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isi-masterminded-amritsar-attack-grenade-made-in-pakistan-says-amarinder-singh-178600">ISI masterminded Amritsar attack, grenade made in Pakistan: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh</a>

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the&nbsp;attack on a religious congregation&nbsp;on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pdp-nc-congress-join-hands-in-jammu-kashmir-will-try-and-form-government-178613">PDP, NC, Congress join hands in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, will try and form </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pdp-nc-congress-join-hands-in-jammu-kashmir-will-try-and-form-government-178613">government</a>

The development came a day after senior PDP leader Muzzafar Hussain Baig showed his willingness to join the Third Front, currently led by Sajjad Gani Lone of the People's Conference.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pdp-nc-congress-join-hands-in-jammu-kashmir-will-try-and-form-government-178613">#MeToo: BCCI CEO Rahul Johri cleared of sexual harassment allegations</a>

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri was Wednesday cleared of&nbsp;sexual harassment allegations&nbsp;by the Committee of Administrators' three-member probe panel, which dismissed the charges levelled by at least two women as "mischievous and fabricated".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-accuses-us-of-turning-blind-eye-to-saudi-killing-of-khashoggi-178591">Turkey accuses </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-accuses-us-of-turning-blind-eye-to-saudi-killing-of-khashoggi-178591">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-accuses-us-of-turning-blind-eye-to-saudi-killing-of-khashoggi-178591"> of turning blind eye to Saudi killing of Khashoggi</a>

Turkey accused the United States on Wednesday of trying to&nbsp;turn a blind eye&nbsp;to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, and dismissed comments from President Donald Trump on the issue as "comic".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/priyanka-chopra-and-nick-jonas-to-have-a-christian-wedding-here-are-the-details-178596">Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas to have Christian wedding; here are the details</a>

The wedding season has just begun in Bollywood. After Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's dream-like wedding at Lake Como, Italy, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are all set to tie the knot in Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur in December.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

ISI masterminded Amritsar attack, grenade made in Pakistan: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the attack on a religious congregation on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack.

ISI masterminded Amritsar attack, grenade made in Pakistan: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the attack on a religious congregation on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack. PDP, NC, Congress join hands in Jammu & Kashmir, will try and form government The development came a day after senior PDP leader Muzzafar Hussain Baig showed his willingness to join the Third Front, currently led by Sajjad Gani Lone of the People's Conference. #MeToo: BCCI CEO Rahul Johri cleared of sexual harassment allegations BCCI CEO Rahul Johri was Wednesday cleared of sexual harassment allegations by the Committee of Administrators' three-member probe panel, which dismissed the charges levelled by at least two women as "mischievous and fabricated". Turkey accuses US of turning blind eye to Saudi killing of Khashoggi Turkey accused the United States on Wednesday of trying to turn a blind eye to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, and dismissed comments from President Donald Trump on the issue as "comic". Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas to have Christian wedding; here are the details The wedding season has just begun in Bollywood. After Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's dream-like wedding at Lake Como, Italy, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are all set to tie the knot in Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur in December.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday reacted to the chilli powder attack, that was carried out on him on Tuesday, stating that it was not the first time when he was being attacked.&nbsp;

Kejriwal added that the attacks on him on are not a minor issue and that he thinks those are being ordered.&nbsp;

"I've been attacked four times in two years. It's not a minor issue. These attacks aren't taking place, they're being ordered," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

He said that these attacks are aimed at taking his life.

Kejriwal's reaction comes a day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chilli-powder-attack-on-arvind-kejriwal-accused-sent-to-14-days-judicial-custody-178586">a man threw red pepper powder at him</a> inside the Delhi Secretariat on Tuesday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I've been attacked 4 times in 2 yrs. It's not minor issue.These attacks aren't taking place,they're being ordered.Humlog inki aankhon ka roda ban chuke hain.Yelog milke mujhe marwana chahte hain. Ye baar-baar humlogo ke upar hamle karwa rahe hain: Delhi CM on chilli powder attack <a href="https://t.co/vT4BW8Jshg">pic.twitter.com/vT4BW8Jshg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065202851071369219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Delhi's Tis Hazari Court on Wednesday sent the accused, in the chilli powder attack case on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, to 14-day judicial custody, news agency ANI reported. &nbsp;

The accused Anil Kumar Sharma, a resident of Delhi's Narayana, hid the chilli powder in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports added.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that the BJP leadership had knowledge of the attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the opposition party wants the latter eliminated to stop him from working for the people.

"(Union) Home Minister Rajnath Singh called Kejriwal and asked him to file a complaint in the attack on him. Is this the way an attack on a chief minister should be probed?" Sisodia asked at a press conference.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday reacted to the chilli powder attack, that was carried out on him on Tuesday, stating that it was not the first time when he was being attacked.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday reacted to the chilli powder attack, that was carried out on him on Tuesday, stating that it was not the first time when he was being attacked. Kejriwal added that the attacks on him on are not a minor issue and that he thinks those are being ordered. "I've been attacked four times in two years. It's not a minor issue. These attacks aren't taking place, they're being ordered," Kejriwal said. He said that these attacks are aimed at taking his life. Kejriwal's reaction comes a day after a man threw red pepper powder at him inside the Delhi Secretariat on Tuesday. I've been attacked 4 times in 2 yrs. It's not minor issue.These attacks aren't taking place,they're being ordered.Humlog inki aankhon ka roda ban chuke hain.Yelog milke mujhe marwana chahte hain. Ye baar-baar humlogo ke upar hamle karwa rahe hain: Delhi CM on chilli powder attack pic.twitter.com/vT4BW8Jshg — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2018 × Delhi's Tis Hazari Court on Wednesday sent the accused, in the chilli powder attack case on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, to 14-day judicial custody, news agency ANI reported. The accused Anil Kumar Sharma, a resident of Delhi's Narayana, hid the chilli powder in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports added. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that the BJP leadership had knowledge of the attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the opposition party wants the latter eliminated to stop him from working for the people. "(Union) Home Minister Rajnath Singh called Kejriwal and asked him to file a complaint in the attack on him. Is this the way an attack on a chief minister should be probed?" Sisodia asked at a press conference.

These attacks aren't taking place, they're being ordered: Delhi CM Kejriwal

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-dead-10-injured-in-grenade-attack-at-amritsars-rajasansi-village-178012">attack on a religious congregation</a> on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack.&nbsp;

The grenade used in the attack is the same used against the Indian forces in Kashmir, he said and added Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence is quite active in fomenting trouble in Punjab, Singh said.

Three persons were killed and at least 10 injured in the attack.&nbsp;

The CM said that 26-year-old Bikramjit Singh has been arrested in connection with the attack and another accused will be captured soon.&nbsp;

''I'm happy to announce that police nabbed one of the two persons involved. The other man will also be arrested soon. His name is Avtar Singh,'' he said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The person who is the mastermind is Inter-Services Intelligence. These (Harmeet Singh ‘PhD’ alias Happy) are only touts which they were using: Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> blast at Nirankari Mission congregation that claimed 3 lives <a href="https://t.co/cFVPDF8HOm">pic.twitter.com/cFVPDF8HOm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065200442194518016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The attack took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, close to the international airport, police said.

Ruling out the communal angle, the Punjab CM said it's a pure case of terrorism.&nbsp;

''They were targeted as they were easy targets. We had information in the past about other organisations being targeted but we took precautionary measures and prevented them from happening,'' the Punjab CM said.&nbsp;

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the attack on a religious congregation on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack.

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that the grenade used in the attack on a religious congregation on the city outskirts of Amritsar was made under license by Pakistan ordinance factory and added that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) masterminded the attack. The grenade used in the attack is the same used against the Indian forces in Kashmir, he said and added Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence is quite active in fomenting trouble in Punjab, Singh said. Three persons were killed and at least 10 injured in the attack. The CM said that 26-year-old Bikramjit Singh has been arrested in connection with the attack and another accused will be captured soon. ''I'm happy to announce that police nabbed one of the two persons involved. The other man will also be arrested soon. His name is Avtar Singh,'' he said. The person who is the mastermind is Inter-Services Intelligence. These (Harmeet Singh ‘PhD’ alias Happy) are only touts which they were using: Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh #Amritsar blast at Nirankari Mission congregation that claimed 3 lives pic.twitter.com/cFVPDF8HOm — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2018 × The attack took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, close to the international airport, police said. Ruling out the communal angle, the Punjab CM said it's a pure case of terrorism. ''They were targeted as they were easy targets. We had information in the past about other organisations being targeted but we took precautionary measures and prevented them from happening,'' the Punjab CM said.

ISI masterminded Amritsar attack, grenade made in Pakistan: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh

After the emergence of the third front in Jammu and Kashmir, three political parties have come together to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

The development came a day after senior PDP leader Muzzafar Hussain Baig showed his willingness to join the Third Front, currently led by Sajjad Gani Lone of the People's Conference.

The coming together of the National Conference, the People's Democratic Party and the Congress, in what is seen as a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-pdp-in-kashmir-145468">grand alliance</a>, was announced by senior PDP leader Altaf Bukhari at his residence.&nbsp;

"All the three parties decided to join hands to defend the special status of the state, keeping in view the political situation and special status of the state," Altaf, who is seen as a front-runner for the chief ministerial chair, told WION in an exclusive chat.

He told WION that a formal announcement about the formation of the government would be made soon. "We have 60 MLAs to keep the communal forces away from the state and an alliance has been agreed," he said.&nbsp;

The alliance will also save the PDP from breaking as some of its senior members had rebelled against the party over a number of issues and were part of the Third Front which was emerging stronger by the day.&nbsp;

Backed by the BJP, the Third Front was emerging as an alternative to the traditional political parties which have ruled Kashmir for decades. But they don't have the numbers to prove their majority in the state assembly which is currently in suspended animation.

J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik had earlier said that he wouldn't dissolve the assembly but there were no signs of any government formation.&nbsp;

Sources have told WION that several informal talks were held between the political parties over the joining of hands, adding that the aim of government formation was also to stop J&amp;K from slipping into the hands of Governor's Rule.

"Congress MLAs have submitted their written consent to the party for the formation of government," a source in the PDP told WION.&nbsp;

The National Conference has called for a core group meeting tomorrow with top leaders from the three regions of the Himalayan state. The Congress' J&amp;K-in-charge Ghulam Ahmad Mir has flown to Delhi to meet the party's top leadership over the issue while other members have been called on the 23rd to deliberate further.&nbsp;

After the emergence of the third front in Jammu and Kashmir, three political parties have come together to form a government in the state. The development came a day after senior PDP leader Muzzafar Hussain Baig showed his willingness to join the Third Front, currently led by Sajjad Gani Lone of the People's Conference.

After the emergence of the third front in Jammu and Kashmir, three political parties have come together to form a government in the state. The development came a day after senior PDP leader Muzzafar Hussain Baig showed his willingness to join the Third Front, currently led by Sajjad Gani Lone of the People's Conference. The coming together of the National Conference, the People's Democratic Party and the Congress, in what is seen as a grand alliance, was announced by senior PDP leader Altaf Bukhari at his residence. "All the three parties decided to join hands to defend the special status of the state, keeping in view the political situation and special status of the state," Altaf, who is seen as a front-runner for the chief ministerial chair, told WION in an exclusive chat. He told WION that a formal announcement about the formation of the government would be made soon. "We have 60 MLAs to keep the communal forces away from the state and an alliance has been agreed," he said. The alliance will also save the PDP from breaking as some of its senior members had rebelled against the party over a number of issues and were part of the Third Front which was emerging stronger by the day. Backed by the BJP, the Third Front was emerging as an alternative to the traditional political parties which have ruled Kashmir for decades. But they don't have the numbers to prove their majority in the state assembly which is currently in suspended animation. J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik had earlier said that he wouldn't dissolve the assembly but there were no signs of any government formation. Sources have told WION that several informal talks were held between the political parties over the joining of hands, adding that the aim of government formation was also to stop J&K from slipping into the hands of Governor's Rule. "Congress MLAs have submitted their written consent to the party for the formation of government," a source in the PDP told WION. The National Conference has called for a core group meeting tomorrow with top leaders from the three regions of the Himalayan state. The Congress' J&K-in-charge Ghulam Ahmad Mir has flown to Delhi to meet the party's top leadership over the issue while other members have been called on the 23rd to deliberate further.

PDP, NC, Congress join hands in Jammu & Kashmir, will try and form government

Voter turnout of 76.35 per cent was recorded in the Chhattisgarh Assembly election which concluded Tuesday, poll authorities said.

It was a little less than the previous 2013 polls when 77.40 per cent of voters had exercised their franchise.

The election to the 90-member Assembly was held in two phases -- November 12 and 20.

The incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in power for the last 15 years.

"An average 76.35 per cent voter turnout was recorded in the two-phased election," Chief Electoral Officer Subrat Sahoo said at a press conference here.

While 76.39 per cent polling was registered in the first phase which covered 18 constituencies in eight Naxal affected districts, 76.34 per cent turnout was registered in the second phase across 72 seats Tuesday.

The highest turn-out was in Kurud (88.99 per cent) in Dhamtari disrict while the lowest turn-out was recorded in Bijapur (47.35 per cent).

As many as 38 constituencies witnessed over 80 per cent voting. In 24 constituencies women voted in larger numbers than men.

Polling parties from all 72 constituencies where voting took place Tuesday have returned safely, the CEO said.

A total of 28 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) are guarding the strong-rooms where EVMs have been kept, he said.

A total of 1,269 candidates are in the fray in this year's elections.

A coalition of former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) has added another dimension to the electoral politics dominated by the BJP and Congress.

Counting of votes will take place on December 11.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Voter turnout of 76.35 per cent was recorded in the Chhattisgarh Assembly election which concluded Tuesday, poll authorities said. It was a little less than the previous 2013 polls when 77.

Voter turnout of 76.35 per cent was recorded in the Chhattisgarh Assembly election which concluded Tuesday, poll authorities said. It was a little less than the previous 2013 polls when 77.40 per cent of voters had exercised their franchise. The election to the 90-member Assembly was held in two phases -- November 12 and 20. The incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in power for the last 15 years. "An average 76.35 per cent voter turnout was recorded in the two-phased election," Chief Electoral Officer Subrat Sahoo said at a press conference here. While 76.39 per cent polling was registered in the first phase which covered 18 constituencies in eight Naxal affected districts, 76.34 per cent turnout was registered in the second phase across 72 seats Tuesday. The highest turn-out was in Kurud (88.99 per cent) in Dhamtari disrict while the lowest turn-out was recorded in Bijapur (47.35 per cent). As many as 38 constituencies witnessed over 80 per cent voting. In 24 constituencies women voted in larger numbers than men. Polling parties from all 72 constituencies where voting took place Tuesday have returned safely, the CEO said. A total of 28 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) are guarding the strong-rooms where EVMs have been kept, he said. A total of 1,269 candidates are in the fray in this year's elections. A coalition of former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) has added another dimension to the electoral politics dominated by the BJP and Congress. Counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Chhattisgarh Assembly polls: 76.35 per cent polling recorded in two-phased election

The Congress, the People's Democratic Party, and the National Conference are in talks to form a coalition and the next government in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, news reports said Wednesday.&nbsp;

Top sources told WION that the idea was to form a government, then dissolve the house in a couple of months and go in for fresh elections.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir has been under Governor's Rule since June 19 when the BJP pulled out of a coalition government with the PDP. Governor's Rule comes to an end next month on December 19.&nbsp;

The fast-paced developments in Kashmir were spurred after senior PDP leader Muzaffar Baig said yesterday that he was ready to join the third front. 
&nbsp; 
There are currently multiple meetings underway both in Jammu and Srinagar.

Senior PDP leader Altaf Bukhari meanwhile has met with Omar Abdullah to discuss a&nbsp;plan of action.&nbsp;

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Who ever said “may you live in interesting times” knew what they were talking about.
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1065200799859519488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Abdullah meanwhile tweeted Wednesday that "Whoever said 'may you live in interesting times' knew what they were talking about'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ANI quoted Bukhari as saying "my leadership has confirmed it to us that the three parties (Congress, PDP and NC) have agreed to make a coalition to defend the special identity of the state politically and legally. Very soon you will get a good news."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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My leadership has confirmed it to us that the three parties (Congress, PDP &amp; NC) have agreed to make a coalition to defend the special identity of the state politically and legally. Very soon you will get a good news: Altaf Bukhari, PDP <a href="https://t.co/5tHEdBoOGJ">pic.twitter.com/5tHEdBoOGJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065190457527975937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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News reports Wednesday said Bukhari was emerging as the chief ministerial face of the grand coalition.&nbsp;

The reports added that the leaders of the three parties would meet with Governor Satyapal Malik on Thursday.&nbsp;

The PDP has 29 MLAs in the 87-member Jammu and Kashmir assembly, the Congress has 12 and the National Conference has 15, putting them well ahead of the halfway mark of 44.&nbsp;

The news reports Wednesday added that should the grand coalition come into effect, it could also serve as a template for the possible BJP vs The Rest battle in the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

The Congress, the People's Democratic Party, and the National Conference are in talks to form a coalition and the next government in Jammu & Kashmir, news reports said Wednesday.

The Congress, the People's Democratic Party, and the National Conference are in talks to form a coalition and the next government in Jammu & Kashmir, news reports said Wednesday. Top sources told WION that the idea was to form a government, then dissolve the house in a couple of months and go in for fresh elections. Jammu and Kashmir has been under Governor's Rule since June 19 when the BJP pulled out of a coalition government with the PDP. Governor's Rule comes to an end next month on December 19. The fast-paced developments in Kashmir were spurred after senior PDP leader Muzaffar Baig said yesterday that he was ready to join the third front. There are currently multiple meetings underway both in Jammu and Srinagar. Senior PDP leader Altaf Bukhari meanwhile has met with Omar Abdullah to discuss a plan of action. Who ever said “may you live in interesting times” knew what they were talking about. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) November 21, 2018 × Abdullah meanwhile tweeted Wednesday that "Whoever said 'may you live in interesting times' knew what they were talking about'. ANI quoted Bukhari as saying "my leadership has confirmed it to us that the three parties (Congress, PDP and NC) have agreed to make a coalition to defend the special identity of the state politically and legally. Very soon you will get a good news." My leadership has confirmed it to us that the three parties (Congress, PDP & NC) have agreed to make a coalition to defend the special identity of the state politically and legally. Very soon you will get a good news: Altaf Bukhari, PDP pic.twitter.com/5tHEdBoOGJ — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2018 × News reports Wednesday said Bukhari was emerging as the chief ministerial face of the grand coalition. The reports added that the leaders of the three parties would meet with Governor Satyapal Malik on Thursday. The PDP has 29 MLAs in the 87-member Jammu and Kashmir assembly, the Congress has 12 and the National Conference has 15, putting them well ahead of the halfway mark of 44. The news reports Wednesday added that should the grand coalition come into effect, it could also serve as a template for the possible BJP vs The Rest battle in the 2019 elections.

Congress, PDP and NC to align, form next government in Jammu & Kashmir

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri was Wednesday cleared of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/coa-of-bcci-asks-rahul-johri-to-submit-explanation-over-sexual-harassment-allegations-171301">sexual harassment allegations</a> by the Committee of Administrators' three-member probe panel, which dismissed the charges levelled by at least two women as "mischievous and fabricated".

Johri was on forced leave for the past three weeks but can now resume office even though one member of the probe committee recommended "gender sensitivity counselling" for him.&nbsp;

The two-member CoA was divided on the issue. While Chairman Vinod Rai approved of Johri joining back, Diana Edulji demanded his resignation on the basis of some recommendations, including counselling.&nbsp;

"The allegations of sexual harassment in the office or else where are false, baseless and have been fabricated and manufactured with an ulterior motive to harm Mr. Rahul Johri...," head of the probe committee Justice (Retd) Rakesh Sharma stated in his findings.

The three-member probe panel also comprised former Delhi Commission of Women chairperson Barkha Singh and lawyer-activist Veena Gowda. Gowda recommended counselling for Johri owing to his "inappropriate behaviour" with one of the complainants during the Champions Trophy in Birmingham.

She, however, maintained there was no case of sexual harassment against Johri.

The committee, which was formed on October 25, was given 15 days to complete the probe by the CoA. Its report would also be submitted to the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

CoA member Diana Edulji didn't want the report to be published on Wednesday and demanded that she be given at least a few days to study it.

However, CoA chief Vinod Rai opened the report in the presence of the panel members as well as BCCI's legal team during the day.

Edulji was against the formation of the panel and wanted Johri to be sacked on the basis of the allegations while Rai felt that "principles of natural justice" demanded an investigation before any action.&nbsp;

The first allegations against Johri was an anonymous e-mail accusing him of sexual misconduct, shared by a twitter handle, which later deleted the post. The accuser claimed to be an ex-colleague of Johri at a previous job.

There were subsequently two more allegations, one from a Singapore-based media professional and another woman, who worked with Johri in one of his previous organisations.

Both women deposed via Skype, along with BCCI's former Anti-Corruption Unit chief Neeraj Kumar, BCCI treasurer Anirudh Chaudhry, IPL petitioner Aditya Verma, and former Mumbai captain Shishir Hattangadi.

There were also allegations against Johri about inappropriate behaviour with a female employee of the BCCI.

However, the employee in question didn't turn up for deposition as was widely speculated.

Johri was the last person to depose and it was spread over two days.&nbsp;

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri was Wednesday cleared of sexual harassment allegations by the Committee of Administrators' three-member probe panel, which dismissed the charges levelled by at least two women as "mischievous and fabricated".

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri was Wednesday cleared of sexual harassment allegations by the Committee of Administrators' three-member probe panel, which dismissed the charges levelled by at least two women as "mischievous and fabricated". Johri was on forced leave for the past three weeks but can now resume office even though one member of the probe committee recommended "gender sensitivity counselling" for him. The two-member CoA was divided on the issue. While Chairman Vinod Rai approved of Johri joining back, Diana Edulji demanded his resignation on the basis of some recommendations, including counselling. "The allegations of sexual harassment in the office or else where are false, baseless and have been fabricated and manufactured with an ulterior motive to harm Mr. Rahul Johri...," head of the probe committee Justice (Retd) Rakesh Sharma stated in his findings. The three-member probe panel also comprised former Delhi Commission of Women chairperson Barkha Singh and lawyer-activist Veena Gowda. Gowda recommended counselling for Johri owing to his "inappropriate behaviour" with one of the complainants during the Champions Trophy in Birmingham. She, however, maintained there was no case of sexual harassment against Johri. The committee, which was formed on October 25, was given 15 days to complete the probe by the CoA. Its report would also be submitted to the Supreme Court. CoA member Diana Edulji didn't want the report to be published on Wednesday and demanded that she be given at least a few days to study it. However, CoA chief Vinod Rai opened the report in the presence of the panel members as well as BCCI's legal team during the day. Edulji was against the formation of the panel and wanted Johri to be sacked on the basis of the allegations while Rai felt that "principles of natural justice" demanded an investigation before any action. The first allegations against Johri was an anonymous e-mail accusing him of sexual misconduct, shared by a twitter handle, which later deleted the post. The accuser claimed to be an ex-colleague of Johri at a previous job. There were subsequently two more allegations, one from a Singapore-based media professional and another woman, who worked with Johri in one of his previous organisations. Both women deposed via Skype, along with BCCI's former Anti-Corruption Unit chief Neeraj Kumar, BCCI treasurer Anirudh Chaudhry, IPL petitioner Aditya Verma, and former Mumbai captain Shishir Hattangadi. There were also allegations against Johri about inappropriate behaviour with a female employee of the BCCI. However, the employee in question didn't turn up for deposition as was widely speculated. Johri was the last person to depose and it was spread over two days.

#MeToo: BCCI CEO Rahul Johri cleared of sexual harassment allegations

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus.

According to reports, the woman was travelling on a bus from Vasant Kunj to Kapasheda and reported that the man who was standing in front of her started masturbating, adding that he continued with his act unabated even after she shouted. She told that none of the fellow passengers came for help, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The woman even shouted at the man and thrashed him, she later complained to the police which led to his arrest.&nbsp;

"No one on the bus helped me, even when I was beating him. I had to do everything on my own," she told ANI. "The police is further investigating the matter," she said.

As per media reports, the incident took place on Tuesday around 9pm. The man was identified as Mukesh Ranjan Kumar, 37, who works with an event management firm.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when an incident of sexual misconduct surfaced in public in the national capital. Earlier this year, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-announce-rs-25000-reward-to-trace-man-who-masturbated-next-to-a-girl-in-bus-33147">a video of a man masturbating while sitting next to a girl in a Delhi bus</a> made headlines.&nbsp;

The disgusting act was caught on camera by the Delhi University student sitting next to him, who later filed a complaint with the police.

The student alleged that a man was masturbating while sitting beside her on a crowded bus, adding he even tried to repeatedly touch her waist by his elbow.&nbsp;

The student managed to capture the act on camera and uploaded it on to social media, where it triggered massive anger and outrage with users demanding the immediate arrest of the man.

(With inputs from agencies)

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus.

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus. According to reports, the woman was travelling on a bus from Vasant Kunj to Kapasheda and reported that the man who was standing in front of her started masturbating, adding that he continued with his act unabated even after she shouted. She told that none of the fellow passengers came for help, news agency ANI reported. The woman even shouted at the man and thrashed him, she later complained to the police which led to his arrest. "No one on the bus helped me, even when I was beating him. I had to do everything on my own," she told ANI. "The police is further investigating the matter," she said. As per media reports, the incident took place on Tuesday around 9pm. The man was identified as Mukesh Ranjan Kumar, 37, who works with an event management firm. This is not the first time when an incident of sexual misconduct surfaced in public in the national capital. Earlier this year, a video of a man masturbating while sitting next to a girl in a Delhi bus made headlines. The disgusting act was caught on camera by the Delhi University student sitting next to him, who later filed a complaint with the police. The student alleged that a man was masturbating while sitting beside her on a crowded bus, adding he even tried to repeatedly touch her waist by his elbow. The student managed to capture the act on camera and uploaded it on to social media, where it triggered massive anger and outrage with users demanding the immediate arrest of the man. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi: Woman thrashes man for masturbating on bus, gets him arrested

Former prime minister and Congress leader &nbsp;Manmohan Singh on Wednesday attacked the BJP-led Modi government over Rafale deal and said that the government's refusal to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee &nbsp;(JPC) investigation means there is something murky about the deal.&nbsp;

Singh was addressing a gathering in Indore, Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Rafale deal has been a bone of contention between the ruling NDA and the opposition. While the Congress alleges serious corruption in the deal, the BJP has been claiming the present deal that the Modi government has struck with the Dassault Rafale is much better than the one signed by the Congress-led UPA. &nbsp;

''The people of the country are suspicious of the Rafale deal, the opposition and various groups are demanding a joint parliamentary committee but Modi government isn’t ready for it. Isse pata lagta hai dal mein&nbsp;kuch kaala hai,'' said Singh.&nbsp;

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The people of the country are suspicious of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> deal, the opposition and various groups are demanding a joint parliamentary committee but Modi government isn’t ready for it. Isse pata lagta hai daal mai kuchh kaala hai: Former PM Manmohan Singh <a href="https://t.co/f71OIEKl5y">pic.twitter.com/f71OIEKl5y</a>
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Calling Modi-government's demonetisation as a ''monumental failure'', he tore into Modi on his promises made to youth and the farmers.&nbsp;

“Demonetisation was a monumental failure; it was a deliberate and designed attack on SMEs, farmers and housewives,” the former prime minister said and added PM Modi's election campaign slogan “Achhe Din” has been reduced to a pipe dream.

“Creation of 2 crore jobs per annum for the youth promised by Modi in 2014 is a pipe dream mooted by the Modi Government. The only reliable data is the quarterly survey of the Labour Bureau,” the former prime minister added.

Former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Wednesday attacked the BJP-led Modi government over Rafale deal and said that the government's refusal to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) investigation means there is something murky about the deal.

Former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Wednesday attacked the BJP-led Modi government over Rafale deal and said that the government's refusal to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) investigation means there is something murky about the deal. Singh was addressing a gathering in Indore, Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday. The Rafale deal has been a bone of contention between the ruling NDA and the opposition. While the Congress alleges serious corruption in the deal, the BJP has been claiming the present deal that the Modi government has struck with the Dassault Rafale is much better than the one signed by the Congress-led UPA. ''The people of the country are suspicious of the Rafale deal, the opposition and various groups are demanding a joint parliamentary committee but Modi government isn’t ready for it. Isse pata lagta hai dal mein kuch kaala hai,'' said Singh. The people of the country are suspicious of the #Rafale deal, the opposition and various groups are demanding a joint parliamentary committee but Modi government isn’t ready for it. Isse pata lagta hai daal mai kuchh kaala hai: Former PM Manmohan Singh pic.twitter.com/f71OIEKl5y — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2018 × Calling Modi-government's demonetisation as a ''monumental failure'', he tore into Modi on his promises made to youth and the farmers. “Demonetisation was a monumental failure; it was a deliberate and designed attack on SMEs, farmers and housewives,” the former prime minister said and added PM Modi's election campaign slogan “Achhe Din” has been reduced to a pipe dream. “Creation of 2 crore jobs per annum for the youth promised by Modi in 2014 is a pipe dream mooted by the Modi Government. The only reliable data is the quarterly survey of the Labour Bureau,” the former prime minister added.

Dal mein kuch kaala hai: Manmohan Singh on Rafale deal

Delhi chokes under blanket of hazardous smog

Delhi's air quality reduces life expectancy by 10 years

Second phase polling For 72 seats In Chhattisgarh underway

Six people have been killed and several injured in an explosion near the Pulgaon army depot in Maharashtra's Wardha.

According to news agency ANI, the incident happened in a military firing range area of Wardha.&nbsp;

The blast occurred at 7 am today morning at the Army depot while unloading ammunition of 23mm at the demolition ground at the CAD, Pulgaon.

The demolition ground was given to Ordnance Factory, Khamaria for their demolition activities. The blast occurred during the disposal process.

In May 2016, at least 16 Defence personnel, including two Army officers, were killed in a massive fire that broke out at one of Asia’s biggest ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Wardha.

The depot houses the largest stockpile of weapons in the country.

Six people have been killed and several injured in an explosion near the Pulgaon army depot in Maharashtra's Wardha. According to news agency ANI, the incident happened in a military firing range area of Wardha.

Six people have been killed and several injured in an explosion near the Pulgaon army depot in Maharashtra's Wardha. According to news agency ANI, the incident happened in a military firing range area of Wardha. The blast occurred at 7 am today morning at the Army depot while unloading ammunition of 23mm at the demolition ground at the CAD, Pulgaon. The demolition ground was given to Ordnance Factory, Khamaria for their demolition activities. The blast occurred during the disposal process. In May 2016, at least 16 Defence personnel, including two Army officers, were killed in a massive fire that broke out at one of Asia’s biggest ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Wardha. The depot houses the largest stockpile of weapons in the country.

6 dead, 10 injured in blast at Army explosive depot in Maharashtra's Wardha

Shares fell on Tuesday in line with weakness in broader Asia and after the outcome of the central bank board's meet to boost lending failed to impress investors, amid expectations the implementation of the proposed measures will take time.

In its first meeting since the extent of a deep rift between the central bank and the government became public, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday its board would support small businesses and give banks more time to step up capital norms. It has also decided to form an expert committee to look into whether RBI reserves are adequate.

The Narendra Modi-led government is concerned that low crop prices and difficulties small businesses face in borrowing may dent its prospects in numerous state elections over coming weeks, and a nationwide election due by May next year.

"Market had built up that the meeting will go smoothly. But, what has come out is something that will take time to materialise and the market always wants immediate action," said AK Prabhakar, head of research at IDBI Capital.

"It is not an immediate solution that will help the market. It is a long-term process. It will happen but will happen at its own speed."

The broader NSE Nifty fell 0.51 per cent to 10,708.05 as of 0545 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex slipped 0.39 per cent to 35,634.52.

"Now, there are fresh fears of a slowdown globally, due to impending Brexit, trade war. All these worries have come back," Prabhakar said.

Asian stock markets slipped on Tuesday, extending sharp overnight losses on Wall Street as technology firms lost on worries about slackening demand. MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was largely flat.

State-run lenders weakened, with Nifty PSU bank index down as much as 1.7 per cent. Shares of State Bank of India lost up to 1.7 per cent, while Oriental Bank of Commerce Ltd`s stock fell as much as 5.7 per cent.

Yes Bank Ltd was the top loser on the NSE index after its non-executive and independent director Rentala Chandrashekhar resigned on Monday, in addition to a slew of resignations from its board in last few weeks.

The stock fell as much as 6.5 per cent.

A stronger rupee hurt domestic software services exporters such as Infosys Ltd and Tech Mahindra Ltd, who bill clients in dollars.

The Indian rupee rose in early trade after the RBI board meet outcome removed uncertainty over a growing rift over policy decisions between the government and the apex bank.

Nifty IT index fell 1.8 per cent, while shares of Infosys and Tech Mahindra declined as much as 1 and 3.6 per cent, respectively.

Shares fell on Tuesday in line with weakness in broader Asia and after the outcome of the central bank board's meet to boost lending failed to impress investors, amid expectations the implementation of the proposed measures will take time.

Shares fell on Tuesday in line with weakness in broader Asia and after the outcome of the central bank board's meet to boost lending failed to impress investors, amid expectations the implementation of the proposed measures will take time. In its first meeting since the extent of a deep rift between the central bank and the government became public, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday its board would support small businesses and give banks more time to step up capital norms. It has also decided to form an expert committee to look into whether RBI reserves are adequate. The Narendra Modi-led government is concerned that low crop prices and difficulties small businesses face in borrowing may dent its prospects in numerous state elections over coming weeks, and a nationwide election due by May next year. "Market had built up that the meeting will go smoothly. But, what has come out is something that will take time to materialise and the market always wants immediate action," said AK Prabhakar, head of research at IDBI Capital. "It is not an immediate solution that will help the market. It is a long-term process. It will happen but will happen at its own speed." The broader NSE Nifty fell 0.51 per cent to 10,708.05 as of 0545 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex slipped 0.39 per cent to 35,634.52. "Now, there are fresh fears of a slowdown globally, due to impending Brexit, trade war. All these worries have come back," Prabhakar said. Asian stock markets slipped on Tuesday, extending sharp overnight losses on Wall Street as technology firms lost on worries about slackening demand. MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was largely flat. State-run lenders weakened, with Nifty PSU bank index down as much as 1.7 per cent. Shares of State Bank of India lost up to 1.7 per cent, while Oriental Bank of Commerce Ltd`s stock fell as much as 5.7 per cent. Yes Bank Ltd was the top loser on the NSE index after its non-executive and independent director Rentala Chandrashekhar resigned on Monday, in addition to a slew of resignations from its board in last few weeks. The stock fell as much as 6.5 per cent. A stronger rupee hurt domestic software services exporters such as Infosys Ltd and Tech Mahindra Ltd, who bill clients in dollars. The Indian rupee rose in early trade after the RBI board meet outcome removed uncertainty over a growing rift over policy decisions between the government and the apex bank. Nifty IT index fell 1.8 per cent, while shares of Infosys and Tech Mahindra declined as much as 1 and 3.6 per cent, respectively.

Nifty, Sensex fall as investors feel RBI's steps will take time to implement

Thirty-two-year-old Indian chef Garima Arora's culinary trajectory has been the thing that most chefs dream of. She quit her journalism career, went to Paris to study, opened Gaa&nbsp;in Bankok in April 2017 — and won her first Michelin star in only 15 months.&nbsp;

Garima is the only Indian woman to have won a Michelin star.

She spoke to WION about her extraordinary journey, saying she draws from India's rich culinary heritage for her work.&nbsp;

"I am an Indian, it comes to me naturally that I draw from my rich heritage. We use a lot of techniques and flavour combinations, but what is more important to me is that why and how are we using these ingredients than just simply putting them for the sake of it," Garima told WION.&nbsp;

"I am not sure if I'm different from any other chef but the reason for GAA's success is that we have always stood by what we believe good food should be and never compromised on that," Garima added.&nbsp;

Garima's early experiments with food started in her own kitchen. Till then, Garima Arora was a full-time journalist. Arora grew up in Mumbai and drew inspiration early on from her Punjabi family, particularly her father who loved cooking exotic foods. She says her dad was her inspiration.&nbsp;

"It was my dad. He spent a lot of time cooking in the kitchen all these exotic dishes and I spent a lot of time with him while he cooked. I think that had a lasting impact on me, that's where I learned how to eat well and cook," Garima said.&nbsp;

Before opening GAA, Garima studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and worked with several renowned chefs including the celebrity chefs Gordon Ramsay, Rene Redzepi and Gaggan Anand.

Arora's restaurant offers a wide range of dishes that are inspired by her Indian upbringing and her international perspective. The restaurant offers its guests different course meals using ingredients familiar to Indians, such as jackfruit, guavas, and pumpkins.&nbsp;

What is a Michelin star? &nbsp;

A Michelin Star is every chef's dream, it is one of the most important recognitions in the haute cuisine restaurant community. Michelin stars are awarded to restaurants to signify their excellence.&nbsp;

- It is a star-based review system started by the Michelin tyre company in 1926.&nbsp; 
- A Michelin star is a hallmark of fine dining quality. 
- Restaurants around the world aspire to Michelin star status.

How are Michelin stars earned?&nbsp;

- One star - a very good restaurant in its category 
- Two stars- excellent cooking, worth a detour&nbsp; 
- Three stars - exceptional cuisine worth a special journey

Garima's success mantra is very simple —&nbsp;make good food and make her customers feel like they have eaten something they have never tasted before.&nbsp;

While a Michelin star means she's got busier, Garima still hopes she can take her signature dishes to more people.

 
&nbsp;

Thirty-two-year-old Indian chef Garima Arora's culinary trajectory has been the thing that most chefs dream of. She quit her journalism career, went to Paris to study, opened Gaa in Bankok in April 2017 — and won her first Michelin star in only 15 months.

Thirty-two-year-old Indian chef Garima Arora's culinary trajectory has been the thing that most chefs dream of. She quit her journalism career, went to Paris to study, opened Gaa in Bankok in April 2017 — and won her first Michelin star in only 15 months. Garima is the only Indian woman to have won a Michelin star. She spoke to WION about her extraordinary journey, saying she draws from India's rich culinary heritage for her work. "I am an Indian, it comes to me naturally that I draw from my rich heritage. We use a lot of techniques and flavour combinations, but what is more important to me is that why and how are we using these ingredients than just simply putting them for the sake of it," Garima told WION. "I am not sure if I'm different from any other chef but the reason for GAA's success is that we have always stood by what we believe good food should be and never compromised on that," Garima added. Garima's early experiments with food started in her own kitchen. Till then, Garima Arora was a full-time journalist. Arora grew up in Mumbai and drew inspiration early on from her Punjabi family, particularly her father who loved cooking exotic foods. She says her dad was her inspiration. "It was my dad. He spent a lot of time cooking in the kitchen all these exotic dishes and I spent a lot of time with him while he cooked. I think that had a lasting impact on me, that's where I learned how to eat well and cook," Garima said. Before opening GAA, Garima studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and worked with several renowned chefs including the celebrity chefs Gordon Ramsay, Rene Redzepi and Gaggan Anand. Arora's restaurant offers a wide range of dishes that are inspired by her Indian upbringing and her international perspective. The restaurant offers its guests different course meals using ingredients familiar to Indians, such as jackfruit, guavas, and pumpkins. What is a Michelin star? A Michelin Star is every chef's dream, it is one of the most important recognitions in the haute cuisine restaurant community. Michelin stars are awarded to restaurants to signify their excellence. - It is a star-based review system started by the Michelin tyre company in 1926. - A Michelin star is a hallmark of fine dining quality. - Restaurants around the world aspire to Michelin star status. How are Michelin stars earned? - One star - a very good restaurant in its category - Two stars- excellent cooking, worth a detour - Three stars - exceptional cuisine worth a special journey Garima's success mantra is very simple — make good food and make her customers feel like they have eaten something they have never tasted before. While a Michelin star means she's got busier, Garima still hopes she can take her signature dishes to more people.

Never compromised on good food: India's first woman Michelin star chef tells WION

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored.

"Of late, we have seen that judiciary has been taking decisions on the issues of governance which is not correct. The separation of power is hallmark of our Constitution and it must be adhered to," Singh told exclusively to WION.

He said that the decline in relationship between legislature and judiciary started during former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's tenure and has not stopped yet. He said that institutions need to acknowledge each other's turf. He also admitted that one of the reasons for judicial overreach is because legislature itself has failed to address crucial issues of governance and law-making.

"This might be one of the reasons but there has to be national consensus on it and sentiments must be communicated that domain stepping itself is not good for democracy," said Singh.

The Winter Session of Parliament is going to convene from December 11 and Rajya Sabha has been the site of ugly battle between the Opposition parties and the government on number of issues. Singh said that his appeal to the members of the House is to come and debate the issues rather than stall the proceedings.

"Earlier, parliamentary debate were long and deep and members would come well prepared and tried to get into the root of the issue. Senior journalists like BG Varghese would say that coming to Parliament was an education and these are his observations," he said. Singh also said that this is the 150th birth anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi and discussions should have started on his philosophy, his relevance in today's time.

Singh said that the issue of population which would impact us in near future has not seen a seasoned debate. "India very soon will surpass China's population. What will be our response? Do we have a policy dealing with consequence of world biggest population?" he asked.

He expressed displeasure over the fact that proceedings have continuously been hit because of daily round of controversies but said that lack of confidence between the Opposition and government did not start in 2014. "It started during Indira Gandhi's tenure after the Congress party spilt into two." Singh also said that there are many important issues which must be brought to table for discussion as some of them require national consensus.

When asked whether the issue of judicial overreach requires a national consensus, he said, "Of course it does require a bipartisan consensus but for that conversation in Parliament must take place." Singh also said that greater responsibility lies on the shoulders of the House of Elders. "In Mahabharata, it is said that people generally do what seniors are seen to be doing. We cannot be seen to be doing frivolous things," he said.

BJP and its allies do not command simple majority in Rajya Sabha. The Opposition enjoys numerical heft in the House of Elders hence most of the bills find themselves stalled in the House. It is for this reason that instead of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha has become the site of contest between the Opposition and the government.

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored.

Weeks before the Winter Session of Parliament begins, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh said that balance between the judiciary, legislature and executive needs to be restored. "Of late, we have seen that judiciary has been taking decisions on the issues of governance which is not correct. The separation of power is hallmark of our Constitution and it must be adhered to," Singh told exclusively to WION. He said that the decline in relationship between legislature and judiciary started during former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's tenure and has not stopped yet. He said that institutions need to acknowledge each other's turf. He also admitted that one of the reasons for judicial overreach is because legislature itself has failed to address crucial issues of governance and law-making. "This might be one of the reasons but there has to be national consensus on it and sentiments must be communicated that domain stepping itself is not good for democracy," said Singh. The Winter Session of Parliament is going to convene from December 11 and Rajya Sabha has been the site of ugly battle between the Opposition parties and the government on number of issues. Singh said that his appeal to the members of the House is to come and debate the issues rather than stall the proceedings. "Earlier, parliamentary debate were long and deep and members would come well prepared and tried to get into the root of the issue. Senior journalists like BG Varghese would say that coming to Parliament was an education and these are his observations," he said. Singh also said that this is the 150th birth anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi and discussions should have started on his philosophy, his relevance in today's time. Singh said that the issue of population which would impact us in near future has not seen a seasoned debate. "India very soon will surpass China's population. What will be our response? Do we have a policy dealing with consequence of world biggest population?" he asked. He expressed displeasure over the fact that proceedings have continuously been hit because of daily round of controversies but said that lack of confidence between the Opposition and government did not start in 2014. "It started during Indira Gandhi's tenure after the Congress party spilt into two." Singh also said that there are many important issues which must be brought to table for discussion as some of them require national consensus. When asked whether the issue of judicial overreach requires a national consensus, he said, "Of course it does require a bipartisan consensus but for that conversation in Parliament must take place." Singh also said that greater responsibility lies on the shoulders of the House of Elders. "In Mahabharata, it is said that people generally do what seniors are seen to be doing. We cannot be seen to be doing frivolous things," he said. BJP and its allies do not command simple majority in Rajya Sabha. The Opposition enjoys numerical heft in the House of Elders hence most of the bills find themselves stalled in the House. It is for this reason that instead of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha has become the site of contest between the Opposition and the government.

Balance between legislature and judiciary must be restored, says Rajya Deputy Chairman Sabha Harivansh

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people.

Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning.

The cyclone crossed the state coast near Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district, about 300 km from here, on November 16 claiming 46 lives and leaving a trail of destruction in over ten districts in southern Tamil Nadu with six of them hit badly.

Accompanied by ministers and officials, Palaniswami inspected some coconut groves devastated by the cyclone in Thanjavur district and also distributed relief materials, including rice and other essential articles, to the affected people.

He would later visit Nagapattinam district, which bore the brunt of the cyclone fury.

On Monday, Palaniswami took stock of the situation at a high-level meeting here and announced an immediate cash assistance totalling Rs 8,800 to each family sheltered in relief camps besides, 10 kg rice and four litres of kerosene.

He has also said compensation would be given to farmers and fishermen.

In a statement, Palaniswami had said the toll in the cyclone has risen to 46, while a total of 2,51,674 people were staying in relief camps.

He said Rs 5,000 would be given as immediate livelihood support to each family lodged in cyclone centres, to those who lost their homes and fishermen who lost their boats. Besides, Rs 3,800 per family would be given for buying clothes and utensils, he said.

In addition, people whose huts were completely damaged will be provided with Rs 10,000 assistance while partially damaged houses will get Rs 4,100.

The state will also seek central funds considering the extent of the damage, he said.

He said coconut farmers will get a compensation of Rs 2.64 lakh per hectare while for paddy crops it will be Rs 13,500 per hectare.

On the farm front, 88, 102 hectares of agricultural and horticultural crops had been damaged.

The Chief Minister has also said compensation ranging from Rs 42,000 to Rs three lakh would be given to fishermen depending on the extent of damage to their fishing boats.

The cyclone which crossed the coast with a speed of up to 120 kmph has left a trail of destruction, uprooting 1.7 lakh trees and damaging 88,102 hectares of agricultural land.

It caused severe damage in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur in the state and Karaikal in Puducherry, besides affecting Dindigul, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Karur and Theni districts also.

Over 1.31 lakh people had been accommodated in relief camps in Nagapattinam district.

Protests were held by residents in parts of Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts on Monday, demanding early restoration of power and drinking water supply.

Facing flak over alleged tardy relief measures, the state government has said people should not think that only such protests would solve their problems and asserted it was working to reach out to all.

On Sunday, irate people in Kotthamangalam village in Puthukottai district had gone on a rampage, setting ablaze government vehicles and clashed with police, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people. Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people. Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning. The cyclone crossed the state coast near Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district, about 300 km from here, on November 16 claiming 46 lives and leaving a trail of destruction in over ten districts in southern Tamil Nadu with six of them hit badly. Accompanied by ministers and officials, Palaniswami inspected some coconut groves devastated by the cyclone in Thanjavur district and also distributed relief materials, including rice and other essential articles, to the affected people. He would later visit Nagapattinam district, which bore the brunt of the cyclone fury. On Monday, Palaniswami took stock of the situation at a high-level meeting here and announced an immediate cash assistance totalling Rs 8,800 to each family sheltered in relief camps besides, 10 kg rice and four litres of kerosene. He has also said compensation would be given to farmers and fishermen. In a statement, Palaniswami had said the toll in the cyclone has risen to 46, while a total of 2,51,674 people were staying in relief camps. He said Rs 5,000 would be given as immediate livelihood support to each family lodged in cyclone centres, to those who lost their homes and fishermen who lost their boats. Besides, Rs 3,800 per family would be given for buying clothes and utensils, he said. In addition, people whose huts were completely damaged will be provided with Rs 10,000 assistance while partially damaged houses will get Rs 4,100. The state will also seek central funds considering the extent of the damage, he said. He said coconut farmers will get a compensation of Rs 2.64 lakh per hectare while for paddy crops it will be Rs 13,500 per hectare. On the farm front, 88, 102 hectares of agricultural and horticultural crops had been damaged. The Chief Minister has also said compensation ranging from Rs 42,000 to Rs three lakh would be given to fishermen depending on the extent of damage to their fishing boats. The cyclone which crossed the coast with a speed of up to 120 kmph has left a trail of destruction, uprooting 1.7 lakh trees and damaging 88,102 hectares of agricultural land. It caused severe damage in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur in the state and Karaikal in Puducherry, besides affecting Dindigul, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Karur and Theni districts also. Over 1.31 lakh people had been accommodated in relief camps in Nagapattinam district. Protests were held by residents in parts of Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts on Monday, demanding early restoration of power and drinking water supply. Facing flak over alleged tardy relief measures, the state government has said people should not think that only such protests would solve their problems and asserted it was working to reach out to all. On Sunday, irate people in Kotthamangalam village in Puthukottai district had gone on a rampage, setting ablaze government vehicles and clashed with police, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief.

Cyclone Gaja: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami visits affected areas

An Indian-American woman has been elected as the president of the powerful student’s body of the prestigious Harvard University. Sruthi Palaniappan, 20, whose parents migrated to the US from Chennai in 1992, was elected as president of the Harvard University Undergraduate Council.&nbsp;

Her running mate Julia Huesa, 20, was elected as vice president, according to an announcement by the Undergraduate Council Election Commission.

Palaniappan said the duo planned to work on improving the Council’s communication with the student body in their initial days in office. “I think from the onset, better structuring the way we communicate with students is something that we need to already set the tone and plan for,” she said. “I think we’re going to work on it before we even leave for break and just get off the ground running,” she told Harvard Crimson, the student newspaper of the varsity. Palaniappan was the youngest delegate at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia in July 2016.

According to report, Palaniappan and Huesa garnered nearly 41.5 per cent of the votes as against their nearest opponent Nadine M Khoury and Arnav Agrawal, who received 26.6 per cent of the votes. They ran their campaign under the slogan “make Harvard home”.

The duo, a long-time member of the Undergraduate Council, are scheduled to take over from the outgoing president Catherine L Zhang ’19 and vice president Nicholas D Boucher ’19. Palaniappan is currently the council’s education committee chair.

An Indian-American woman has been elected as the president of the powerful student’s body of the prestigious Harvard University. Sruthi Palaniappan, 20, whose parents migrated to the US from Chennai in 1992, was elected as president of the Harvard University Undergraduate Council.

An Indian-American woman has been elected as the president of the powerful student’s body of the prestigious Harvard University. Sruthi Palaniappan, 20, whose parents migrated to the US from Chennai in 1992, was elected as president of the Harvard University Undergraduate Council. Her running mate Julia Huesa, 20, was elected as vice president, according to an announcement by the Undergraduate Council Election Commission. Palaniappan said the duo planned to work on improving the Council’s communication with the student body in their initial days in office. “I think from the onset, better structuring the way we communicate with students is something that we need to already set the tone and plan for,” she said. “I think we’re going to work on it before we even leave for break and just get off the ground running,” she told Harvard Crimson, the student newspaper of the varsity. Palaniappan was the youngest delegate at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia in July 2016. According to report, Palaniappan and Huesa garnered nearly 41.5 per cent of the votes as against their nearest opponent Nadine M Khoury and Arnav Agrawal, who received 26.6 per cent of the votes. They ran their campaign under the slogan “make Harvard home”. The duo, a long-time member of the Undergraduate Council, are scheduled to take over from the outgoing president Catherine L Zhang ’19 and vice president Nicholas D Boucher ’19. Palaniappan is currently the council’s education committee chair.

Indian-American woman, Sruthi Palaniappan elected president of Harvard student body

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday.

She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP.

She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties.

Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation.

She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation.

She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices.

The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists.

She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality.

She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented.

She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress.

Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.&nbsp;

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday. She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP. She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here. She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties. Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation. She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation. She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices. The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists. She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality. She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented. She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress. Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.

Madhya Pradesh: Congress offered less seats to BSP, Mayawati on failed alliance bid

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday.

In the second phase of polling held Tuesday in 72 assembly seats, the voter turnout was recorded at 71.93 per cent till 6 PM. The first phase the poll percentage was 76.42.

Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told a press conference here that while the overall voting percentage in 2013 elections was 77.42, it has recorded at 74.17 per cent Tuesday.

Since the final figures are still awaited, the actual voter turnout could be more.

Sinha said Tuesday's elections were peaceful and incident-free as elaborate security arrangements were made.

He added that a number of old voters, including those over 100 years of age, also exercised their franchise and the Commission had made arrangements for them.

A total of 13 cases were reported where people had boycott polls over a variety of reasons including jobs, road construction and removal of encroachments.

The Commission also said, at the 19,336 polling stations being used in the second phase of Chhattisgarh polls, a total of 25,640 ballot units, 19,336 control units and 19,336 paper trail machines were used.

Only 47 ballot units, 37 control units and 131 paper trail machines needed replacement during the polls.

Given sufficient reserves available, these replacements were handled swiftly by the local polling personnel, the EC said.

Voters above 100 years of age used their voting rights in Balodabazar, Lundra, including a 113-year-old woman in Chirmiri and a 100-year-old couple in Jashpur, the poll panel said.

Two voters clicked the picture of EVM and paper trail machine while casting their votes which went viral on social media. An FIR has been registered against them for the charge of violation of the secrecy of voting.

In another incident, a sector officer as removed as he carried a reserve EVM to his house for a lunch break. Though no mala fide intention was found, he was replaced by another officer and the EVM deposited in the strong room.

Some people had complained that the official had taken the machine home, Sinha said.

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday.

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday. In the second phase of polling held Tuesday in 72 assembly seats, the voter turnout was recorded at 71.93 per cent till 6 PM. The first phase the poll percentage was 76.42. Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told a press conference here that while the overall voting percentage in 2013 elections was 77.42, it has recorded at 74.17 per cent Tuesday. Since the final figures are still awaited, the actual voter turnout could be more. Sinha said Tuesday's elections were peaceful and incident-free as elaborate security arrangements were made. He added that a number of old voters, including those over 100 years of age, also exercised their franchise and the Commission had made arrangements for them. A total of 13 cases were reported where people had boycott polls over a variety of reasons including jobs, road construction and removal of encroachments. The Commission also said, at the 19,336 polling stations being used in the second phase of Chhattisgarh polls, a total of 25,640 ballot units, 19,336 control units and 19,336 paper trail machines were used. Only 47 ballot units, 37 control units and 131 paper trail machines needed replacement during the polls. Given sufficient reserves available, these replacements were handled swiftly by the local polling personnel, the EC said. Voters above 100 years of age used their voting rights in Balodabazar, Lundra, including a 113-year-old woman in Chirmiri and a 100-year-old couple in Jashpur, the poll panel said. Two voters clicked the picture of EVM and paper trail machine while casting their votes which went viral on social media. An FIR has been registered against them for the charge of violation of the secrecy of voting. In another incident, a sector officer as removed as he carried a reserve EVM to his house for a lunch break. Though no mala fide intention was found, he was replaced by another officer and the EVM deposited in the strong room. Some people had complained that the official had taken the machine home, Sinha said.

Assembly elections: Polling percentage in Chhattisgarh dips as compared to 2013

TRS president and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Tuesday said the pension of Rs 1,000 given to various sections of people would be increased to Rs 2,016 if the party was voted to power in the December 7 assembly elections.

"I am appealing to all who get pensions, our government will come to power definitely. After that, Rs 2,016 will be given as pension to all, be they women, beedi workers, elderly people, widows," he said while addressing an election rally here.

The pension given to people with disabilities would be increased to Rs 3,016 from Rs 1,500, he said.

Unemployed persons, based on eligibility, would get a monthly assistance of Rs 3,000, he added.

Other welfare measures such as investment support scheme for farmers and insurance scheme for them were promised by the Chief Minister.

TRS president and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Tuesday said the pension of Rs 1,000 given to various sections of people would be increased to Rs 2,016 if the party was voted to power in the December 7 assembly elections.

TRS president and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Tuesday said the pension of Rs 1,000 given to various sections of people would be increased to Rs 2,016 if the party was voted to power in the December 7 assembly elections. "I am appealing to all who get pensions, our government will come to power definitely. After that, Rs 2,016 will be given as pension to all, be they women, beedi workers, elderly people, widows," he said while addressing an election rally here. The pension given to people with disabilities would be increased to Rs 3,016 from Rs 1,500, he said. Unemployed persons, based on eligibility, would get a monthly assistance of Rs 3,000, he added. Other welfare measures such as investment support scheme for farmers and insurance scheme for them were promised by the Chief Minister.

Telangana CM promises hike in pension if voted to power

Voting for the second phase of panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir ended with 80.4 per cent of voter turnout in Jammu division and 53.2 per cent in Kashmir division, while overall voter turnout of the state was 71.1 per cent.

As much as 72.3 per cent voter turnout was recorded in Ramban, 77.9 per cent in Kishtwar, 81.7 per cent in Doda, 83.5 per cent in Rajouri, 84 per cent in Udhampur, 27.4 per cent turnout in Ganderbal, 44.8 per cent in Kashmir Valley, 66.3 per cent in Leh, 70.5 per cent in Kupwara and 75.2 per cent in Kargil.

Over 2.37 lakh voters out of 3.31 lakh voters exercised their franchise in spite of threats to life and limb.

Speaking to ANI, Jammu and Kashmir governor Satyapal Malik said that no poll-related casualty was reported in any part of the state.

"Good thing is there was no poll-related casualty. Villagers want their share of development; it will strengthen democracy in villages. Till now politics of Kashmir was in urbans' hands, now it will bring a new generation of politicians," he added.

Polling was held in 17 blocks in Jammu division, 12 blocks in Kashmir region and 11 blocks in Ladakh region.

The third phase of polling is scheduled for November 24.

Voting for the second phase of panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir ended with 80.4 per cent of voter turnout in Jammu division and 53.2 per cent in Kashmir division, while overall voter turnout of the state was 71.

Voting for the second phase of panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir ended with 80.4 per cent of voter turnout in Jammu division and 53.2 per cent in Kashmir division, while overall voter turnout of the state was 71.1 per cent. As much as 72.3 per cent voter turnout was recorded in Ramban, 77.9 per cent in Kishtwar, 81.7 per cent in Doda, 83.5 per cent in Rajouri, 84 per cent in Udhampur, 27.4 per cent turnout in Ganderbal, 44.8 per cent in Kashmir Valley, 66.3 per cent in Leh, 70.5 per cent in Kupwara and 75.2 per cent in Kargil. Over 2.37 lakh voters out of 3.31 lakh voters exercised their franchise in spite of threats to life and limb. Speaking to ANI, Jammu and Kashmir governor Satyapal Malik said that no poll-related casualty was reported in any part of the state. "Good thing is there was no poll-related casualty. Villagers want their share of development; it will strengthen democracy in villages. Till now politics of Kashmir was in urbans' hands, now it will bring a new generation of politicians," he added. Polling was held in 17 blocks in Jammu division, 12 blocks in Kashmir region and 11 blocks in Ladakh region. The third phase of polling is scheduled for November 24.

J&K panchayat polls: 71.1% voter turnout recorded in second phase

In a setback to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi ahead of the December seven Telangana Assembly polls, the party's Lok Sabha member, Konda Vishweshwar Reddy quit the party Tuesday.

In a letter to the TRS president and caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Reddy, who was elected from the Chevella constituency, said he was disappointed with the party at various levels.

He was forced into a position of contemplating leaving the party despite the fact that today TRS enjoys significant goodwill in the "social circles that we are in," Reddy said in the letter, shared with the media.

"I thought long and hard about this step before deciding to take this major decision and analysed the scenario by listing my disappointments at various levels," he said.

Reddy listed disappointments at five levels -- personal, injustice to karyakarthas (those) who worked for Telangana statehood, constituency, state and party -- in the letter.

"I fought for the party in 2014 when the party needed me. However, the party has induced people who were against Telangana and our ideology into the cabinet and given them more power and prominence.

I feel people who were fighting for Telangana and share a common ideology including me are no longer needed in the party," Reddy said.

He said he feels that the best possible path for him is to resign from the party as he is unable to acquiesce with the current scenario.

Reddy said he would also resign from the Lok Sabha. Reddy is a first time MP.

In a setback to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi ahead of the December seven Telangana Assembly polls, the party's Lok Sabha member, Konda Vishweshwar Reddy quit the party Tuesday.

In a setback to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi ahead of the December seven Telangana Assembly polls, the party's Lok Sabha member, Konda Vishweshwar Reddy quit the party Tuesday. In a letter to the TRS president and caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Reddy, who was elected from the Chevella constituency, said he was disappointed with the party at various levels. He was forced into a position of contemplating leaving the party despite the fact that today TRS enjoys significant goodwill in the "social circles that we are in," Reddy said in the letter, shared with the media. "I thought long and hard about this step before deciding to take this major decision and analysed the scenario by listing my disappointments at various levels," he said. Reddy listed disappointments at five levels -- personal, injustice to karyakarthas (those) who worked for Telangana statehood, constituency, state and party -- in the letter. "I fought for the party in 2014 when the party needed me. However, the party has induced people who were against Telangana and our ideology into the cabinet and given them more power and prominence. I feel people who were fighting for Telangana and share a common ideology including me are no longer needed in the party," Reddy said. He said he feels that the best possible path for him is to resign from the party as he is unable to acquiesce with the current scenario. Reddy said he would also resign from the Lok Sabha. Reddy is a first time MP.

Telangana: Lok Sabha MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy quits TRS

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