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As many as 3,584 nominations were filed by political parties for Telangana Assembly elections, slated to be held on December 7, a release from the office of Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar said on Monday.

Telangana caretaker ministers K T Rama Rao and Jagadish Reddy and state Congress Working President Revanth Reddy were among the prominent leaders who filed their nominations Monday, the last day for the process.

PCC chief Uttam Kumar Reddy's wife Padamavathi also filed her nomination.

Rama Rao, the son of caretaker Chief Minister and TRS supremo K Chandrasekhar Rao, filed his nomination from Sirsilla constituency in Rajanna Sircilla District.

The Congress fielded K K Mahender Reddy against Rama Rao.

Revanth Reddy filed his papers from Kodangal in Vikarabad district.

The TRS is going alone in the elections, which were advanced after the government chose to dissolve the Assembly ahead of its term. While the Congress has formed a "grand alliance", the BJP is also contesting the polls alone.

The CEO said they accepted all the nominations that were submitted till 3pm. Officials are expected to make the announcement on the total number nominations later.

Scrutiny of papers is fixed for Tuesday and the last date for withdrawal of nominations is November 22. The counting of votes would be held on December 11.

As many as 3,584 nominations were filed by political parties for Telangana Assembly elections, slated to be held on December 7, a release from the office of Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar said on Monday.

As many as 3,584 nominations were filed by political parties for Telangana Assembly elections, slated to be held on December 7, a release from the office of Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar said on Monday. Telangana caretaker ministers K T Rama Rao and Jagadish Reddy and state Congress Working President Revanth Reddy were among the prominent leaders who filed their nominations Monday, the last day for the process. PCC chief Uttam Kumar Reddy's wife Padamavathi also filed her nomination. Rama Rao, the son of caretaker Chief Minister and TRS supremo K Chandrasekhar Rao, filed his nomination from Sirsilla constituency in Rajanna Sircilla District. The Congress fielded K K Mahender Reddy against Rama Rao. Revanth Reddy filed his papers from Kodangal in Vikarabad district. The TRS is going alone in the elections, which were advanced after the government chose to dissolve the Assembly ahead of its term. While the Congress has formed a "grand alliance", the BJP is also contesting the polls alone. The CEO said they accepted all the nominations that were submitted till 3pm. Officials are expected to make the announcement on the total number nominations later. Scrutiny of papers is fixed for Tuesday and the last date for withdrawal of nominations is November 22. The counting of votes would be held on December 11.

Over 3500 nominations filed for Telangana Assembly elections

A BJP leader in Rajasthan has resigned his membership to join the Shiv Sena, an ally of the saffron party at the Centre and in Maharashtra, and contest the December 7 assembly election on its ticket. He filed his nomination on Monday.

Shri Krishan Gupta, a prominent face in Alwar district, was in the race to get a BJP ticket to contest from Alwar (Urban) constituency. The BJP, which last week released its list of candidates for the region, has fielded Sanjay Sharma from the seat instead of sitting MLA Banwari Lal.

In a departure from tradition, the BJP fielded a non-Vaishya from Alwar city, which has a sizeable voting-age population from the community.

"The Vaishya community has been neglected at the time of ticket distribution. However, two Brahmins have been given tickets despite the community having fewer voters than Vaishyas in the district. Ticket has been given without considering surveys conducted by the party and other agencies," Gupta said and confirmed he has quit the BJP.

Rajasthan unit chief of the Shiv Sena, Raj Kumar Goyal, said Gupta has joined the party.

Goyal said all party members, including the candidate who was to contest the poll from Alwar, have consented to have Gupta, 62 and a chartered accountant by profession, as the Sena face in the constituency.

"We have submitted a list of 19 star campaigners to the election officials. Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray, youth wing president Aditya Thackeray and MP Sanjay Raut will come to Alwar to campaign for him," Goyal said.

The BJP has denied Gupta's allegation that the party neglected any community in ticket distribution.

"The BJP is a party of 36 communities (pluralistic). He is only seeing what he wants to see. The ticket has been given taking into consideration surveys and feedbacks from booth-level workers," BJP's Alwar unit chief Sanjay Narooka said.

Asked about accepting the resignation, he said when Gupta has joined another party it hardly mattered if or not the BJP accepts it.

Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on November 12 and ended on November 19. Rajasthan, which has 200 assembly constituencies, goes to polls on December 7 and the results will be out on December 11.

There are 11 assembly constituencies in Alwar district, including Alwar (Urban), Alwar (Rural - SC), Tijara, Kishangarh Bas and Mundawar.

The Shiv Sena has a comparatively tiny presence in Rajasthan. The party will contest on four assembly seats in Alwar district, including both Alwar Urban and rural seats.

A BJP leader in Rajasthan has resigned his membership to join the Shiv Sena, an ally of the saffron party at the Centre and in Maharashtra, and contest the December 7 assembly election on its ticket.

A BJP leader in Rajasthan has resigned his membership to join the Shiv Sena, an ally of the saffron party at the Centre and in Maharashtra, and contest the December 7 assembly election on its ticket. He filed his nomination on Monday. Shri Krishan Gupta, a prominent face in Alwar district, was in the race to get a BJP ticket to contest from Alwar (Urban) constituency. The BJP, which last week released its list of candidates for the region, has fielded Sanjay Sharma from the seat instead of sitting MLA Banwari Lal. In a departure from tradition, the BJP fielded a non-Vaishya from Alwar city, which has a sizeable voting-age population from the community. "The Vaishya community has been neglected at the time of ticket distribution. However, two Brahmins have been given tickets despite the community having fewer voters than Vaishyas in the district. Ticket has been given without considering surveys conducted by the party and other agencies," Gupta said and confirmed he has quit the BJP. Rajasthan unit chief of the Shiv Sena, Raj Kumar Goyal, said Gupta has joined the party. Goyal said all party members, including the candidate who was to contest the poll from Alwar, have consented to have Gupta, 62 and a chartered accountant by profession, as the Sena face in the constituency. "We have submitted a list of 19 star campaigners to the election officials. Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray, youth wing president Aditya Thackeray and MP Sanjay Raut will come to Alwar to campaign for him," Goyal said. The BJP has denied Gupta's allegation that the party neglected any community in ticket distribution. "The BJP is a party of 36 communities (pluralistic). He is only seeing what he wants to see. The ticket has been given taking into consideration surveys and feedbacks from booth-level workers," BJP's Alwar unit chief Sanjay Narooka said. Asked about accepting the resignation, he said when Gupta has joined another party it hardly mattered if or not the BJP accepts it. Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on November 12 and ended on November 19. Rajasthan, which has 200 assembly constituencies, goes to polls on December 7 and the results will be out on December 11. There are 11 assembly constituencies in Alwar district, including Alwar (Urban), Alwar (Rural - SC), Tijara, Kishangarh Bas and Mundawar. The Shiv Sena has a comparatively tiny presence in Rajasthan. The party will contest on four assembly seats in Alwar district, including both Alwar Urban and rural seats.

Rajasthan BJP leader quits party to contest assembly election on Shiv Sena ticket

BJP MLA Gyan Dev Ahuja has been booked for violating the model code of conduct by allegedly distributing money to his supporters during a rally before filing nomination papers as an independent candidate on Monday.

The action was taken after a video purportedly showing Ahuja distributing money went viral.

Returing officer of Sanganer constituency Jagat Rajeshwar said the FIR was lodged with Banipark Police Station under sections of the Representation of the People's Act on Monday.

The case has been transferred to CID (CB) for investigation as the matter is related to a sitting MLA.

After denial of ticket, Ahuja, a three-time MLA, filed nomination papers from Sanganer constituency as an independent candidate.

He won the last election from Ramgarh constituency but he was dropped this time.

BJP MLA Gyan Dev Ahuja has been booked for violating the model code of conduct by allegedly distributing money to his supporters during a rally before filing nomination papers as an independent candidate on Monday.

BJP MLA Gyan Dev Ahuja has been booked for violating the model code of conduct by allegedly distributing money to his supporters during a rally before filing nomination papers as an independent candidate on Monday. The action was taken after a video purportedly showing Ahuja distributing money went viral. Returing officer of Sanganer constituency Jagat Rajeshwar said the FIR was lodged with Banipark Police Station under sections of the Representation of the People's Act on Monday. The case has been transferred to CID (CB) for investigation as the matter is related to a sitting MLA. After denial of ticket, Ahuja, a three-time MLA, filed nomination papers from Sanganer constituency as an independent candidate. He won the last election from Ramgarh constituency but he was dropped this time.

BJP MLA booked for violating model code in Rajasthan

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament.

"I initiate the discussion on this historic motion for providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and the Parliament," Patnaik said, while moving the resolution for the consideration of the House.

Stating that Odisha must show its commitment and resolve to the entire country that it is the land where women are truly empowered and truly involved in nation-building, the chief minister appealed to all the lawmakers to extend their support and unanimously adopt the resolution.

He said the empowerment of women is very close to his heart. "No household, no society, no state, no country has ever moved forward without empowering its women."

Patnaik said initiatives like girls' education, loans at 1 per cent interest rate, hostels for 5 lakh tribal girls, provision of&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;7 lakh for women under its healthcare insurance scheme and land rights for women were among the many initiatives his government had taken to improve their socio-economic condition.

In 1992, Patnaik said, his legendary father and former chief minister, Biju Patnaik, had brought women to the realm of political decision-making by providing 33 per cent reservation for them in local bodies.<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"The principle of gender equality is enshrined in our Constitution. Biju Babu was the true champion of women's empowerment," he said.

"I am confident that the mothers and sisters who run their household so efficiently will run the panchayat samiti and zilla parishad with equal competence," Patnaik quoted his father as saying, while making a provision of 33 per cent reservation for women in the three-tier Panchayati Raj system and urban local body.

"My government has further enhanced it (reservation for women in panchayat and ULBs) to 50 per cent. In fact, its heartening to know that, in real numbers, it's much more than 50 per cent," Patnaik said.

"This bold, aspirational and new Odisha has voices which must be heard across panchayats, legislative assemblies and the Parliament," he added.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament. "I initiate the discussion on this historic motion for providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and the Parliament," Patnaik said, while moving the resolution for the consideration of the House. Stating that Odisha must show its commitment and resolve to the entire country that it is the land where women are truly empowered and truly involved in nation-building, the chief minister appealed to all the lawmakers to extend their support and unanimously adopt the resolution. He said the empowerment of women is very close to his heart. "No household, no society, no state, no country has ever moved forward without empowering its women." Patnaik said initiatives like girls' education, loans at 1 per cent interest rate, hostels for 5 lakh tribal girls, provision of Rs. 7 lakh for women under its healthcare insurance scheme and land rights for women were among the many initiatives his government had taken to improve their socio-economic condition. In 1992, Patnaik said, his legendary father and former chief minister, Biju Patnaik, had brought women to the realm of political decision-making by providing 33 per cent reservation for them in local bodies. "The principle of gender equality is enshrined in our Constitution. Biju Babu was the true champion of women's empowerment," he said. "I am confident that the mothers and sisters who run their household so efficiently will run the panchayat samiti and zilla parishad with equal competence," Patnaik quoted his father as saying, while making a provision of 33 per cent reservation for women in the three-tier Panchayati Raj system and urban local body. "My government has further enhanced it (reservation for women in panchayat and ULBs) to 50 per cent. In fact, its heartening to know that, in real numbers, it's much more than 50 per cent," Patnaik said. "This bold, aspirational and new Odisha has voices which must be heard across panchayats, legislative assemblies and the Parliament," he added.

Naveen Patnaik moves resolution for 33% women reservation in parliament

The BJP said on Tuesday the Supreme Court is the right authority to examine whether the sensational charges brought by CBI DIG Manish Kumar Sinha against a Union minister and top officials has any substantive basis or is "politically motivated".

The feud within the CBI turned murkier on Monday with Sinha dragging the names of NSA Ajit Doval, Union minister Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhary and CVC K V Chowdhury over alleged attempts to interfere in the probe against the agency's Special Director Rakesh Asthana, who has also been divested of his duties and sent on leave by the government along with Director Alok Kumar Verma.

BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said the matter is "sub judice", but took objection to "somebody serving in an organisation twisting the name of that organisation itself".

When asked by reporters about the issue, he said, "The matter is sub judice. The Supreme Court is hearing the matter on a regular basis. The court apparently itself said there is no urgency to hear this particular complaint. Therefore, it is not proper for me to make a political comment."

Sinha, who was probing the FIR against Asthana, the CBI's number two, and important cases like the PNB scam involving Nirav Modi, made a litany of sensational allegations in his petition before the Supreme Court that sought urgent hearing for quashing his transfer to Nagpur.

"The court itself did not see any merit or emergency in the allegations being made. Therefore, I think the right authority to examine this complaint is the court itself. Whether this statement is politically motivated or has any substantive basis is something that the court will examine," he said.

"But, prima facie, I have a strong objection to somebody serving in an organisation twisting the name of that organisation itself... Honestly, in my opinion, that deserves disciplinary action," Rao said.

"I think no individual serving in an organisation should have the audacity to really target the organisation. You can always make allegations about individuals, make statements, offer evidence.

But, trying to lower the stature of the organisation itself, to my mind, is simply not done. It's a breach of discipline as far as my understanding goes," he said.

A furious Supreme Court on Tuesday told all the parties in a case involving the CBI's top brass they did not "deserve" a hearing in the light of the purported leak of the agency chief's reply to the CVC's probe findings against him and making public the allegations by its senior officer Manish Kumar Sinha against top officials.

K V Chowdhury did not respond to queries when his reaction was sought while Doval, the National Security Advisor, was not immediately available for comments. The union minister termed the allegations as baseless and malicious.&nbsp;

The BJP said on Tuesday the Supreme Court is the right authority to examine whether the sensational charges brought by CBI DIG Manish Kumar Sinha against a Union minister and top officials has any substantive basis or is "politically motivated".

The BJP said on Tuesday the Supreme Court is the right authority to examine whether the sensational charges brought by CBI DIG Manish Kumar Sinha against a Union minister and top officials has any substantive basis or is "politically motivated". The feud within the CBI turned murkier on Monday with Sinha dragging the names of NSA Ajit Doval, Union minister Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhary and CVC K V Chowdhury over alleged attempts to interfere in the probe against the agency's Special Director Rakesh Asthana, who has also been divested of his duties and sent on leave by the government along with Director Alok Kumar Verma. BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said the matter is "sub judice", but took objection to "somebody serving in an organisation twisting the name of that organisation itself". When asked by reporters about the issue, he said, "The matter is sub judice. The Supreme Court is hearing the matter on a regular basis. The court apparently itself said there is no urgency to hear this particular complaint. Therefore, it is not proper for me to make a political comment." Sinha, who was probing the FIR against Asthana, the CBI's number two, and important cases like the PNB scam involving Nirav Modi, made a litany of sensational allegations in his petition before the Supreme Court that sought urgent hearing for quashing his transfer to Nagpur. "The court itself did not see any merit or emergency in the allegations being made. Therefore, I think the right authority to examine this complaint is the court itself. Whether this statement is politically motivated or has any substantive basis is something that the court will examine," he said. "But, prima facie, I have a strong objection to somebody serving in an organisation twisting the name of that organisation itself... Honestly, in my opinion, that deserves disciplinary action," Rao said. "I think no individual serving in an organisation should have the audacity to really target the organisation. You can always make allegations about individuals, make statements, offer evidence. But, trying to lower the stature of the organisation itself, to my mind, is simply not done. It's a breach of discipline as far as my understanding goes," he said. A furious Supreme Court on Tuesday told all the parties in a case involving the CBI's top brass they did not "deserve" a hearing in the light of the purported leak of the agency chief's reply to the CVC's probe findings against him and making public the allegations by its senior officer Manish Kumar Sinha against top officials. K V Chowdhury did not respond to queries when his reaction was sought while Doval, the National Security Advisor, was not immediately available for comments. The union minister termed the allegations as baseless and malicious.

SC will examine if allegations politically motivated: BJP on CBI row

The political slugfest over the Sabarimala issue touched a new low Tuesday with BJP President Amit Shah accusing the Kerala government of treating pilgrims as 'Gulag inmates', prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to allege the Sangh Parivar was making the pilgrims 'scapegoats'.

As the stand-off continued over the entry of menstrual age women to Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala after the Supreme Court lifted the ban, Shah slammed the CPI(M)-led government's handling of the situation as "disappointing" and accused it of making them spend nights next to "pig droppings".

In a series of tweets, Shah said, "If several reports of flushing resting places for devotees and them having to spend nights next to pig droppings and dustbin are true, then Pinarayi Vijayan must realize that he can't treat Ayyappa devotees like inmates of Gulag. We won't let LDF crush people's faith with impunity."

Gulag was a system of forced labour camps established during Joseph Stalin's rule in the Soviet Union.

Shah's comments underlined his party's support to devotees protesting against the state government's move to implement the apex court order that allowed the entry of women of all groups to the temple.

Shah said the way Vijayan's government is handling the sensitive issue of Sabarimala is disappointing as the "Kerala police is treating young girls, mothers and aged inhumanly, forcing them to take the arduous pilgrimage, without even basic facilities like food, water, shelter and clean toilets".

"If Pinarayi Vijayan thinks he can rise against people's movement to preserve Sabarimala by arresting K Surendran, BJP's Thrissur district president and six others, then he is mistaken," Shah said.

Vijayan on his part lashed out at the BJP and right-wing outfits, accusing them of exploiting the Sabarimala issue for their "political gains" and trying to 'capture' and take control of the hill-top shrine.

In hard-hitting remarks, he alleged that the Sangh Parivar's agenda was to create trouble by sending "kar sevaks" to take control of the temple and make the pilgrims "scapegoats".

Addressing a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayan also defended the arrest of 69 people from the temple complex on Sunday night and slammed the Congress for opposing implementation of the Supreme Court order.

He alleged the RSS and Congress "have become one" on the Sabarimala issue.

Vijayan asserted that Sabarimala would not be allowed to be transformed into a "centre of violence" and his government "will not compromise" with those perpetrating violence in the temple complex. 
He alleged Sangh Parivar was "exploiting Sabarimala in the name of faith" and trying to take control of the temple.

"All protection would be given to the pilgrims visiting the shrine for darshan," Vijayan said.

Targeting the main opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front, he said the Congress' national leadership wanted the Supreme Court verdict to be implemented, but the state unit had a different take.

"Ramesh Chennithala (leader of the opposition in the state assembly) has changed his stance multiple times which ultimately helped the Sangh Parivar politics," he said.

Defending the police action on Sunday night arresting 69 devotees from 'Sannidhanam' (the main temple complex), the chief minister said "conscious efforts" were made by some people to stay back there even after the customary closing song "Harivarasanam" and despite prohibitory orders.

"Most of them have not come to the temple through the normal route but preferred the forest path evading checking.

"Conscious efforts were made by some people to stay back at Sannidhanam even after 'Harivarasanam'," he said.

"Their specific plan is to gain full control of Sabarimala," Vijayan charged and named six Sangh Parivar office-bearers whom he alleged posed as devotees to create problems at Sabarimala on Sunday night.

The Chief Minister also referred to a BJP circular through which, he said, it had planned to deploy its cadre in an organised manner at Sabarimala to ensure that no young women would enter the shrine on the strength of the September 28 court verdict.

"As per the circular of the BJP, they would be sending the "karsevaks" with a hidden agenda to capture and take control of Sabarimala," Vijayan alleged.

He also pointed to statements reportedly made by BJP state chief P S Sreedharan Pillai, including that the Sabarimala issue was an "opportunity for the Sangh parivar" and the saffron party and their agitation was "not against women's entry" but against the Communist party.

"Pillai has made it clear earlier itself that Sabarimala issue was a good opportunity for the Sangh parivar," Vijayan alleged.

Alleging that the Sangh Parivar has a "doctorate in peddling fake news", he said it has unleashed "fake campaign" against the state maligning its image.

The political slugfest over the Sabarimala issue touched a new low Tuesday with BJP President Amit Shah accusing the Kerala government of treating pilgrims as 'Gulag inmates', prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to allege the Sangh Parivar was making the pilgrims 'scapegoats'.

The political slugfest over the Sabarimala issue touched a new low Tuesday with BJP President Amit Shah accusing the Kerala government of treating pilgrims as 'Gulag inmates', prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to allege the Sangh Parivar was making the pilgrims 'scapegoats'. As the stand-off continued over the entry of menstrual age women to Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala after the Supreme Court lifted the ban, Shah slammed the CPI(M)-led government's handling of the situation as "disappointing" and accused it of making them spend nights next to "pig droppings". In a series of tweets, Shah said, "If several reports of flushing resting places for devotees and them having to spend nights next to pig droppings and dustbin are true, then Pinarayi Vijayan must realize that he can't treat Ayyappa devotees like inmates of Gulag. We won't let LDF crush people's faith with impunity." Gulag was a system of forced labour camps established during Joseph Stalin's rule in the Soviet Union. Shah's comments underlined his party's support to devotees protesting against the state government's move to implement the apex court order that allowed the entry of women of all groups to the temple. Shah said the way Vijayan's government is handling the sensitive issue of Sabarimala is disappointing as the "Kerala police is treating young girls, mothers and aged inhumanly, forcing them to take the arduous pilgrimage, without even basic facilities like food, water, shelter and clean toilets". "If Pinarayi Vijayan thinks he can rise against people's movement to preserve Sabarimala by arresting K Surendran, BJP's Thrissur district president and six others, then he is mistaken," Shah said. Vijayan on his part lashed out at the BJP and right-wing outfits, accusing them of exploiting the Sabarimala issue for their "political gains" and trying to 'capture' and take control of the hill-top shrine. In hard-hitting remarks, he alleged that the Sangh Parivar's agenda was to create trouble by sending "kar sevaks" to take control of the temple and make the pilgrims "scapegoats". Addressing a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayan also defended the arrest of 69 people from the temple complex on Sunday night and slammed the Congress for opposing implementation of the Supreme Court order. He alleged the RSS and Congress "have become one" on the Sabarimala issue. Vijayan asserted that Sabarimala would not be allowed to be transformed into a "centre of violence" and his government "will not compromise" with those perpetrating violence in the temple complex. He alleged Sangh Parivar was "exploiting Sabarimala in the name of faith" and trying to take control of the temple. "All protection would be given to the pilgrims visiting the shrine for darshan," Vijayan said. Targeting the main opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front, he said the Congress' national leadership wanted the Supreme Court verdict to be implemented, but the state unit had a different take. "Ramesh Chennithala (leader of the opposition in the state assembly) has changed his stance multiple times which ultimately helped the Sangh Parivar politics," he said. Defending the police action on Sunday night arresting 69 devotees from 'Sannidhanam' (the main temple complex), the chief minister said "conscious efforts" were made by some people to stay back there even after the customary closing song "Harivarasanam" and despite prohibitory orders. "Most of them have not come to the temple through the normal route but preferred the forest path evading checking. "Conscious efforts were made by some people to stay back at Sannidhanam even after 'Harivarasanam'," he said. "Their specific plan is to gain full control of Sabarimala," Vijayan charged and named six Sangh Parivar office-bearers whom he alleged posed as devotees to create problems at Sabarimala on Sunday night. The Chief Minister also referred to a BJP circular through which, he said, it had planned to deploy its cadre in an organised manner at Sabarimala to ensure that no young women would enter the shrine on the strength of the September 28 court verdict. "As per the circular of the BJP, they would be sending the "karsevaks" with a hidden agenda to capture and take control of Sabarimala," Vijayan alleged. He also pointed to statements reportedly made by BJP state chief P S Sreedharan Pillai, including that the Sabarimala issue was an "opportunity for the Sangh parivar" and the saffron party and their agitation was "not against women's entry" but against the Communist party. "Pillai has made it clear earlier itself that Sabarimala issue was a good opportunity for the Sangh parivar," Vijayan alleged. Alleging that the Sangh Parivar has a "doctorate in peddling fake news", he said it has unleashed "fake campaign" against the state maligning its image.

Sabarimala pilgrims treated as 'Gulag inmates', alleges Shah; Kerala CM hits back 

In a speech that China will be closely going through, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has called for respect for rule of law in the Indo-Pacific during his address to Vietnam's Parliament. He is the only second leader after China's Xi Jinping to address the Vietnamese parliament.

Speaking in the Parliament, he said, "Vietnam and India share a vision for the Indo-Pacific region, of which the South China Sea is a critical component. We share a vision of a rule-based order that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensures freedom of navigation and over-flight, as well as unimpeded commerce."

The South China Sea issue, which involves China and its neighbour, involves the demarcation of the sea but each has overlapping claims. In recent years, China is seen as aggressive in its approach regarding its claim.

The President of India further added, "our shared vision seeks peaceful resolution of disputes, with full respect to legal and diplomatic processes in accordance to the principles of the international law, including those reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. "

The Philippines had dragged China to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding the territorial disputes in the&nbsp;South China Sea. The tribunal had favoured Manila but Bejing rejected the ruling.

President Kovind also highlighted India's consistent support for "ASEAN’s unity and centrality" and "ASEAN-led mechanisms for regional security and economic architecture – to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region".

This is the first time President Kovind has visited any ASEAN country. Earlier this year, India invited all 10 heads of ASEAN for its Republic Day. Bilateral trade between Hanoi and Delhi has touched $12.8 billion in the past year and India is one of Vietnam’s top 10 trading partners.

The President highlighted Indo-Pacific many times during his address saying "we are both ancient maritime nations and are stakeholders in the commerce, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region"

Both countries will participate in the first Bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue to be hosted by Vietnam in early 2019. There have been a number of high-level visits between India and Vietnam with both the Vietnamese Prime Minister and the President visiting New Delhi earlier this year.

In a speech that China will be closely going through, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has called for respect for rule of law in the Indo-Pacific during his address to Vietnam's Parliament.

In a speech that China will be closely going through, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has called for respect for rule of law in the Indo-Pacific during his address to Vietnam's Parliament. He is the only second leader after China's Xi Jinping to address the Vietnamese parliament. Speaking in the Parliament, he said, "Vietnam and India share a vision for the Indo-Pacific region, of which the South China Sea is a critical component. We share a vision of a rule-based order that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensures freedom of navigation and over-flight, as well as unimpeded commerce." The South China Sea issue, which involves China and its neighbour, involves the demarcation of the sea but each has overlapping claims. In recent years, China is seen as aggressive in its approach regarding its claim. The President of India further added, "our shared vision seeks peaceful resolution of disputes, with full respect to legal and diplomatic processes in accordance to the principles of the international law, including those reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. " The Philippines had dragged China to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding the territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The tribunal had favoured Manila but Bejing rejected the ruling. President Kovind also highlighted India's consistent support for "ASEAN’s unity and centrality" and "ASEAN-led mechanisms for regional security and economic architecture – to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region". This is the first time President Kovind has visited any ASEAN country. Earlier this year, India invited all 10 heads of ASEAN for its Republic Day. Bilateral trade between Hanoi and Delhi has touched $12.8 billion in the past year and India is one of Vietnam’s top 10 trading partners. The President highlighted Indo-Pacific many times during his address saying "we are both ancient maritime nations and are stakeholders in the commerce, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region" Both countries will participate in the first Bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue to be hosted by Vietnam in early 2019. There have been a number of high-level visits between India and Vietnam with both the Vietnamese Prime Minister and the President visiting New Delhi earlier this year.

In President Kovind's address to Vietnamese Parliament, a message for China

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suspended-security-assistance-as-pak-failed-to-act-on-militant-safe-havens-white-house-178294">Suspended security assistance to Pak for failure to address militant safe havens: US</a>

The Trump administration has suspended security assistance to Pakistan because it failed to address the problem of militant safe havens inside its territory, the White House has said.

"The (Trump) Administration has been clear to Pakistani leaders that it expects them to constructively address the problem of militant safe havens in Pakistan," an official from the National Security Council, the White House, told PTI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-victims-after-shots-fired-at-chicago-hospital-police-178282">Four killed, including </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-victims-after-shots-fired-at-chicago-hospital-police-178282">gunman</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-victims-after-shots-fired-at-chicago-hospital-police-178282"> and police officer, in shooting at Chicago hospital</a>

Four people were killed and two others critically wounded in a shooting at a Chicago hospital on Monday, and among the dead was the gunman who started shooting in the parking lot and then burst into the medical facility and opened fire, according to local media.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-polling-begins-in-second-phase-amid-heavy-security-178297">Chhattisgarh elections: Polling begins in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-polling-begins-in-second-phase-amid-heavy-security-178297">second</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-polling-begins-in-second-phase-amid-heavy-security-178297"> phase amid heavy security</a>

Polling booths opened today in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh today in the second phase of elections amid heavy security.

The state had gone to the polls for the first phase on November 12th in the 18 Naxal-affected seats which saw 70 per cent electorates exercising their franchise.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jks-shopian-district-2-terrorists-trapped-178291">Two terrorists reportedly killed in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jks-shopian-district-2-terrorists-trapped-178291">encounter</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jks-shopian-district-2-terrorists-trapped-178291"> in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian</a>

Two terrorists were reportedly killed in an encounter that broke out between terrorists and security forces at Nadigam village of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir in the wee hours of Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-remains-a-critical-partner-to-us-south-asia-strategy-pentagon-178292">Pakistan remains a critical partner to US' South Asia strategy: Pentagon</a>

Pakistan remains a critical partner to America's South Asia strategy, the Pentagon said on Monday, a day after President Donald Trump said that Islamabad was not doing "a damn thing" for the US.

Suspended security assistance to Pak for failure to address militant safe havens: US The Trump administration has suspended security assistance to Pakistan because it failed to address the problem of militant safe havens inside its territory, the White House has said.

Suspended security assistance to Pak for failure to address militant safe havens: US The Trump administration has suspended security assistance to Pakistan because it failed to address the problem of militant safe havens inside its territory, the White House has said. "The (Trump) Administration has been clear to Pakistani leaders that it expects them to constructively address the problem of militant safe havens in Pakistan," an official from the National Security Council, the White House, told PTI. Four killed, including gunman and police officer, in shooting at Chicago hospital Four people were killed and two others critically wounded in a shooting at a Chicago hospital on Monday, and among the dead was the gunman who started shooting in the parking lot and then burst into the medical facility and opened fire, according to local media. Chhattisgarh elections: Polling begins in second phase amid heavy security Polling booths opened today in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh today in the second phase of elections amid heavy security. The state had gone to the polls for the first phase on November 12th in the 18 Naxal-affected seats which saw 70 per cent electorates exercising their franchise. Two terrorists reportedly killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian Two terrorists were reportedly killed in an encounter that broke out between terrorists and security forces at Nadigam village of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir in the wee hours of Tuesday. Pakistan remains a critical partner to US' South Asia strategy: Pentagon Pakistan remains a critical partner to America's South Asia strategy, the Pentagon said on Monday, a day after President Donald Trump said that Islamabad was not doing "a damn thing" for the US.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has taken over the Environment portfolio in the state Cabinet, news agency ANI reported. &nbsp;

According to reports, the portfolio, which was previously held by OP Soni, has been allocated to Singh as Soni has now been handed over the Food Processing department.&nbsp;

OP Soni will continue to hold School Education portfolio.

CM Singh, earlier in the day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-delhi-court-announces-death-penalty-to-convict-yashpal-singh-178412">welcomed the Delhi court's verdict</a> on convicting the accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has taken over the Environment portfolio. The portfolio was earlier held by OP Soni, who has now been allocated the Food Processing department. Soni will also continue to hold the School Education portfolio. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/dW5Uwso3Fk">pic.twitter.com/dW5Uwso3Fk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064887249689632771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts," his tweet read.&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Tuesday announced death penalty to convict Yashpal Singh in the anti-Sikh riots case. This was the first ever capital punishment in the case. Co-convict Naresh Sherawat has been given life-term by the court.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has taken over the Environment portfolio in the state Cabinet, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the portfolio, which was previously held by OP Soni, has been allocated to Singh as Soni has now been handed over the Food Processing department.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has taken over the Environment portfolio in the state Cabinet, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the portfolio, which was previously held by OP Soni, has been allocated to Singh as Soni has now been handed over the Food Processing department. OP Soni will continue to hold School Education portfolio. CM Singh, earlier in the day, welcomed the Delhi court's verdict on convicting the accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. #Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has taken over the Environment portfolio. The portfolio was earlier held by OP Soni, who has now been allocated the Food Processing department. Soni will also continue to hold the School Education portfolio. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/dW5Uwso3Fk — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × "Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts," his tweet read. A Delhi court on Tuesday announced death penalty to convict Yashpal Singh in the anti-Sikh riots case. This was the first ever capital punishment in the case. Co-convict Naresh Sherawat has been given life-term by the court.

Punjab: CM Amarinder Singh gets Environment portfolio 

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspected Sunday Pakistan's ISI-backed Khalistani or Kashmiri militants' role in the Amritsar terror attack that killed three persons and injured twenty others, and vowed that he would not let the "forces of terror" destroy the state's "hard-earned peace".

The possibility of involvement of ISI-backed Khalistani or Kashmiri terror groups could not be ruled out (in the Amritsar terror attack)," said Amarinder Singh in an official statement, adding the forensic teams have been rushed to the spot and "all angles were being investigated".

The chief minister said his government was on the top of things" and would "get to the bottom of the incident" soon and ensure that the culprits are nabbed and brought to book.

Nobody will be allowed to get away with trying to disturb the peace and harmony of the state, he said.

Three persons were killed and at least twenty others were injured when two motorcycle-borne miscreants hurled a grenade at a religious congregation of over 200 devotees inside a Nirankari Bhawan at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi area Sunday, the police said earlier.

In his statement, the chief minister said the preliminary investigations have revealed that two men - one of them with a flowing beard and both with their faces covered - forced their entry into the hall, brandishing a pistol.

They detained the sewadar, lobbed the grenade into the prayer room and fled on a motorcycle on which they had come, he added.

A small crater was formed by the impact of the explosion and was being examined by the forensic team, Amarinder Singh said, adding that the safety valve of the grenade too has been found and was being examined.

Soon after the attack, the chief minister reviewed the law and order situation in the state and asked the state home secretary, Punjab police chief and director generals, law &amp; order and intelligence, to rush to Rajasansi in Amritsar to supervise the ongoing probe into the grenade attack, an official spokesman said here.

Forensic teams too have been rushed to the spot and all angles were being investigated, said the chief minister.

Strongly condemning the grenade attack after reviewing law and order in the state, Amarinder Singh vowed that he will not let the "forces of terror" destroy the hard-earned peace in the state.

While making an appeal to the people "not to panic and remain calm," the chief minister tweeted, "We will not let the forces of terror destroy our hard-earned peace."

"I appeal to the people of Punjab to maintain peace in the wake of Amritsar bomb blast. I urge them not to panic and remain calm," he added.

Amarinder Singh's tweet followed soon after Punjab police chief Suresh Arora told PTI that the incident "appears to have a terror angle... we will take it as a terrorist act."

In his statement, the chief minister added that police teams have been rushed to raid suspected hideouts of the assailants and multiple teams are investigating various angles to crack the case.

The chief minister also directed police to immediately beef up the security at all sensitive places, including all Nirankari Bhawan, in the wake of the grenade attack - the first such indiscriminate act against innocent people in recent past.

Punjab had been severely hit by pro-Khalistan militancy in the 1980s and early 1990s, but it faced few terror attacks in recent years, barring the one in Pathankot over two years back.

Though the state had been hit by a series of targeted attacks since 2015/2016, this was the first attempt, in a long time, aimed at disturbing the peace in the state through indiscriminate killings, said the chief minister.

This strengthened the belief that Pakistan was continuing with its nefarious activities to disturb peace in the state, he added.

Amarinder Singh said 15 terror modules were busted in the past 18 months, with indications of Kashmiri terror links too in some instances as evidenced in the arrest of Kashmiri students from Jalandhar and in a case of grenade blast at Maqsudan police station.

Punjab DGP Arora had earlier told PTI the grenade attack on the religious congregation on outskirts of Amritsar city appeared to be a terrorist act.

It (this incident) appears to have a terror angle because it is against a group (of people) and not against any individual. There is no reason to throw a hand grenade on a group of people, so we will take it as a terrorist act. Till proven otherwise, prima facie we will take it like that, he had said.

Punjab had has been on alert following an input saying that a group of six to seven JeM terrorists were in the state, possibly in Ferozepur area.

The state had been put on alert after four persons snatched an SUV from its driver at gunpoint near Madhopur in Pathankot district last week.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspected Sunday Pakistan's ISI-backed Khalistani or Kashmiri militants' role in the Amritsar terror attack that killed three persons and injured twenty others, and vowed that he would not let the "forces of terror" destroy the state's "hard-earned peace".

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspected Sunday Pakistan's ISI-backed Khalistani or Kashmiri militants' role in the Amritsar terror attack that killed three persons and injured twenty others, and vowed that he would not let the "forces of terror" destroy the state's "hard-earned peace". The possibility of involvement of ISI-backed Khalistani or Kashmiri terror groups could not be ruled out (in the Amritsar terror attack)," said Amarinder Singh in an official statement, adding the forensic teams have been rushed to the spot and "all angles were being investigated". The chief minister said his government was on the top of things" and would "get to the bottom of the incident" soon and ensure that the culprits are nabbed and brought to book. Nobody will be allowed to get away with trying to disturb the peace and harmony of the state, he said. Three persons were killed and at least twenty others were injured when two motorcycle-borne miscreants hurled a grenade at a religious congregation of over 200 devotees inside a Nirankari Bhawan at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi area Sunday, the police said earlier. In his statement, the chief minister said the preliminary investigations have revealed that two men - one of them with a flowing beard and both with their faces covered - forced their entry into the hall, brandishing a pistol. They detained the sewadar, lobbed the grenade into the prayer room and fled on a motorcycle on which they had come, he added. A small crater was formed by the impact of the explosion and was being examined by the forensic team, Amarinder Singh said, adding that the safety valve of the grenade too has been found and was being examined. Soon after the attack, the chief minister reviewed the law and order situation in the state and asked the state home secretary, Punjab police chief and director generals, law & order and intelligence, to rush to Rajasansi in Amritsar to supervise the ongoing probe into the grenade attack, an official spokesman said here. Forensic teams too have been rushed to the spot and all angles were being investigated, said the chief minister. Strongly condemning the grenade attack after reviewing law and order in the state, Amarinder Singh vowed that he will not let the "forces of terror" destroy the hard-earned peace in the state. While making an appeal to the people "not to panic and remain calm," the chief minister tweeted, "We will not let the forces of terror destroy our hard-earned peace." "I appeal to the people of Punjab to maintain peace in the wake of Amritsar bomb blast. I urge them not to panic and remain calm," he added. Amarinder Singh's tweet followed soon after Punjab police chief Suresh Arora told PTI that the incident "appears to have a terror angle... we will take it as a terrorist act." In his statement, the chief minister added that police teams have been rushed to raid suspected hideouts of the assailants and multiple teams are investigating various angles to crack the case. The chief minister also directed police to immediately beef up the security at all sensitive places, including all Nirankari Bhawan, in the wake of the grenade attack - the first such indiscriminate act against innocent people in recent past. Punjab had been severely hit by pro-Khalistan militancy in the 1980s and early 1990s, but it faced few terror attacks in recent years, barring the one in Pathankot over two years back. Though the state had been hit by a series of targeted attacks since 2015/2016, this was the first attempt, in a long time, aimed at disturbing the peace in the state through indiscriminate killings, said the chief minister. This strengthened the belief that Pakistan was continuing with its nefarious activities to disturb peace in the state, he added. Amarinder Singh said 15 terror modules were busted in the past 18 months, with indications of Kashmiri terror links too in some instances as evidenced in the arrest of Kashmiri students from Jalandhar and in a case of grenade blast at Maqsudan police station. Punjab DGP Arora had earlier told PTI the grenade attack on the religious congregation on outskirts of Amritsar city appeared to be a terrorist act. It (this incident) appears to have a terror angle because it is against a group (of people) and not against any individual. There is no reason to throw a hand grenade on a group of people, so we will take it as a terrorist act. Till proven otherwise, prima facie we will take it like that, he had said. Punjab had has been on alert following an input saying that a group of six to seven JeM terrorists were in the state, possibly in Ferozepur area. The state had been put on alert after four persons snatched an SUV from its driver at gunpoint near Madhopur in Pathankot district last week.

Amarinder Singh suspects ISI hand in Amritsar 'terror' attack

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

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64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/3MlWJZbQCX">pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX</a>
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As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent</a> voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. 64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of #ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm. Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll. The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.

Chhattisgarh assembly polls: Over 60% voter turnout recorded till 5pm 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/have-made-up-my-mind-not-to-contest-next-elections-sushma-swaraj-178379">Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj</a>

The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

"It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-rbi-relaxes-deadline-banks-will-be-able-to-lend-extra-35-42-billion-sources-178403">After RBI relaxes deadline, banks will be able to lend </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-rbi-relaxes-deadline-banks-will-be-able-to-lend-extra-35-42-billion-sources-178403">extra</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-rbi-relaxes-deadline-banks-will-be-able-to-lend-extra-35-42-billion-sources-178403"> $35-42 billion: Sources</a>

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) estimates that Indian banks will have capacity to lend an extra 2.5 trillion rupees to 3.0 trillion rupees ($35 billion to $42 billion) over the next year after it decided to relax a deadline for lenders to boost capital ratios, two sources aware of discussions on the matter said on Tuesday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-khashoggi-murder-some-saudi-royals-turn-against-kings-favourite-son-178419">After Khashoggi murder, some Saudi royals turn against king’s favourite son</a>

Amid international uproar over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, some members of Saudi Arabia's ruling family are agitating to prevent Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman from becoming king, three sources close to the royal court said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-demands-details-of-pakistans-financial-assistance-deal-with-china-report-178365">IMF demands details of Pakistan's financial assistance deal with China: Report</a>

The IMF has demanded Pakistan provide all details of China's financial support to the cash-strapped country to avail a bailout package from it, according to media reports.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">China believes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">Maldives</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402"> will make 'correct choice' to continue with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">free</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402"> trade deal</a>

China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact.

Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy.

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below). News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons. After RBI relaxes deadline, banks will be able to lend extra $35-42 billion: Sources The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) estimates that Indian banks will have capacity to lend an extra 2.5 trillion rupees to 3.0 trillion rupees ($35 billion to $42 billion) over the next year after it decided to relax a deadline for lenders to boost capital ratios, two sources aware of discussions on the matter said on Tuesday. After Khashoggi murder, some Saudi royals turn against king’s favourite son Amid international uproar over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, some members of Saudi Arabia's ruling family are agitating to prevent Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman from becoming king, three sources close to the royal court said. IMF demands details of Pakistan's financial assistance deal with China: Report The IMF has demanded Pakistan provide all details of China's financial support to the cash-strapped country to avail a bailout package from it, according to media reports. China believes Maldives will make 'correct choice' to continue with free trade deal China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact. Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy.

The rupee rose by 21 paise to end at 71.46 against the US dollar Tuesday on increased selling of the greenback by exporters amid softening crude oil prices, and persistent foreign fund inflows.

This is the sixth straight session of gains for the domestic unit as the US dollar weakened against some currencies overseas. In the last six trading sessions, the rupee has gained 143 paise.

"Domestic currency strengthened for a sixth day after RBI's OMOs supported rupee's rise that has been set off by declining oil prices and continued capital inflows. The appreciation has happened even as Dollar fell to a two week low following Fed's cautious comments over a potential global slow down," Anand James, Chief Market Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, said.

The Reserve Bank Monday said it will inject Rs 8,000 crore into the system through the purchase of government securities on November 22.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (forex), the rupee opened on a firm note at 71.39. It gained further ground to hit a high of 71.27, following dollar selling by exporters.

The local unit, however, pared the initial gains and finally settled the day at 71.46 to the US dollar, up 21 paise.

On Monday, the rupee had increased by 26 paise to close at a 10-week high of 71.67 against the US currency.

Forex traders said the uptrend in the local unit was largely driven by foreign funds inflows to capital markets.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), made fresh purchases worth Rs 1,103.36 crore Monday, as per provisional data.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank and the government Monday agreed to refer to an expert committee the contentious issue of the appropriate size of reserves that the RBI must hold, while restructuring of stressed loans of small businesses would be considered by the central bank.

Globally, Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading at USD 66.56 per barrel Tuesday.

The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 71.3276 and for rupee/euro at 81.6867. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 91.7197 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 63.40.

Meanwhile, the Sensex fell over 300 points or 0.84 per cent, to 35,474.51 on heavy selling by market participants, in step with a global selloff. The 50-share NSE Nifty too dropped by 107.20 points, or 1 per cent, to 10,656.20.&nbsp;

The rupee rose by 21 paise to end at 71.46 against the US dollar Tuesday on increased selling of the greenback by exporters amid softening crude oil prices, and persistent foreign fund inflows.

The rupee rose by 21 paise to end at 71.46 against the US dollar Tuesday on increased selling of the greenback by exporters amid softening crude oil prices, and persistent foreign fund inflows. This is the sixth straight session of gains for the domestic unit as the US dollar weakened against some currencies overseas. In the last six trading sessions, the rupee has gained 143 paise. "Domestic currency strengthened for a sixth day after RBI's OMOs supported rupee's rise that has been set off by declining oil prices and continued capital inflows. The appreciation has happened even as Dollar fell to a two week low following Fed's cautious comments over a potential global slow down," Anand James, Chief Market Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, said. The Reserve Bank Monday said it will inject Rs 8,000 crore into the system through the purchase of government securities on November 22. At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (forex), the rupee opened on a firm note at 71.39. It gained further ground to hit a high of 71.27, following dollar selling by exporters. The local unit, however, pared the initial gains and finally settled the day at 71.46 to the US dollar, up 21 paise. On Monday, the rupee had increased by 26 paise to close at a 10-week high of 71.67 against the US currency. Forex traders said the uptrend in the local unit was largely driven by foreign funds inflows to capital markets. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), made fresh purchases worth Rs 1,103.36 crore Monday, as per provisional data. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank and the government Monday agreed to refer to an expert committee the contentious issue of the appropriate size of reserves that the RBI must hold, while restructuring of stressed loans of small businesses would be considered by the central bank. Globally, Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading at USD 66.56 per barrel Tuesday. The Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 71.3276 and for rupee/euro at 81.6867. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 91.7197 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 63.40. Meanwhile, the Sensex fell over 300 points or 0.84 per cent, to 35,474.51 on heavy selling by market participants, in step with a global selloff. The 50-share NSE Nifty too dropped by 107.20 points, or 1 per cent, to 10,656.20.

Rupee gains for 6th straight session, rises 21 paise

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election.

The number of Bharatiya Janata Party women candidates are two less compared to the 2013 Assembly election, while the Congress had fielded four more this time.

The Congress has given tickets to three Muslim women, and the BJP chose four women from the erstwhile royal families.

The women from the erstwhile royal families include Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, sitting MLAs Siddhi Kumari, Krishnendra Kaur Deepa and Kalpna Devi, who is the wife of former Congress MP Ijyaraj Singh.&nbsp;

Among the Congress' women candidates, Divya Maderna is the daughter of former minister Mahipal Maderna, who is facing trial in the Bhanwari Devi murder case, while the husbands of Safia and Gulnaz had contested the 2013 assembly election as Congress candidates.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election.

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election. The number of Bharatiya Janata Party women candidates are two less compared to the 2013 Assembly election, while the Congress had fielded four more this time. The Congress has given tickets to three Muslim women, and the BJP chose four women from the erstwhile royal families. The women from the erstwhile royal families include Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, sitting MLAs Siddhi Kumari, Krishnendra Kaur Deepa and Kalpna Devi, who is the wife of former Congress MP Ijyaraj Singh. Among the Congress' women candidates, Divya Maderna is the daughter of former minister Mahipal Maderna, who is facing trial in the Bhanwari Devi murder case, while the husbands of Safia and Gulnaz had contested the 2013 assembly election as Congress candidates.

Women candidates in Rajasthan polls: Congress 27, BJP 23

Four terrorists and a Para commando were killed on Tuesday in an encounter with security forces in Nadigam area of South Kashmir's Shopian district.

A Senior Police official has confirmed the report.

The officer further said that the identity of the slain militants is yet to be ascertained.&nbsp;

A cordon and search operation was launched by security forces this morning in the area after intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months.

On November 18, two terrorists associated with terror outfit Al-Badr were killed in an encounter in Rebban area of Shopian district.

On the same day, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan lost his life after terrorists opened fire on a CRPF camp at Railway Colony in Pulwama`s Kakapora area.

Four terrorists and a Para commando were killed on Tuesday in an encounter with security forces in Nadigam area of South Kashmir's Shopian district. A Senior Police official has confirmed the report.

Four terrorists and a Para commando were killed on Tuesday in an encounter with security forces in Nadigam area of South Kashmir's Shopian district. A Senior Police official has confirmed the report. The officer further said that the identity of the slain militants is yet to be ascertained. A cordon and search operation was launched by security forces this morning in the area after intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. The Valley has been witnessing a spurt in terror activities for the past few months. On November 18, two terrorists associated with terror outfit Al-Badr were killed in an encounter in Rebban area of Shopian district. On the same day, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan lost his life after terrorists opened fire on a CRPF camp at Railway Colony in Pulwama`s Kakapora area.

Four terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in J&K's Shopian district

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said.&nbsp;

The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said

The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said.&nbsp;

As per reports, Kumar, 40, is from Delhi's&nbsp;Narayana.

The attack took place outside the chief minister's chamber on the third floor when he was leaving for lunch.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: CCTV visuals of the incident that took place at Delhi's Central Secretariat where chilli powder fell from a man's hand. He had come to meet Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal with his grievances. Investigation underway whether it was an attack or powder fell unintentionally <a href="https://t.co/OlRrScpmC2">pic.twitter.com/OlRrScpmC2</a>
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AAP condemned the&nbsp;attack on Kejriwal and called it politically motivated. However, despite the alarming video, the police said it was investigating if the incident was "unintentional", according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

After throwing red pepper powder on Kejriwal, Kumar threatened to shoot him after he comes out of jail, an official recounted.

(With agency inputs)

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said. The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said.

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said. The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said. As per reports, Kumar, 40, is from Delhi's Narayana. The attack took place outside the chief minister's chamber on the third floor when he was leaving for lunch. #WATCH: CCTV visuals of the incident that took place at Delhi's Central Secretariat where chilli powder fell from a man's hand. He had come to meet Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal with his grievances. Investigation underway whether it was an attack or powder fell unintentionally pic.twitter.com/OlRrScpmC2 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × AAP condemned the attack on Kejriwal and called it politically motivated. However, despite the alarming video, the police said it was investigating if the incident was "unintentional", according to news agency ANI. After throwing red pepper powder on Kejriwal, Kumar threatened to shoot him after he comes out of jail, an official recounted. (With agency inputs)

Delhi CM attacked with chilli powder in secretariat

In the first-ever Interaction between Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering and New Delhi, Tshering has expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Modi for the telephonic call to felicitate him on election victory and said that he is committed to strengthening the special bond of friendship and cooperation shared by the two countries.&nbsp;

India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale was on a visit to Bhutan from 18th to November 20. This was the first ever high-level govt visit from India to Bhutan ever since the new govt took charge.&nbsp;

The Bhutanese PM told FS Gokhale that, “Our foreign policy should not change every five years with a change in government".

According to Ministry of the external affairs press release, the Foreign Secretary conveyed that "India attaches the highest priority to further expanding its unique ties of friendship and cooperation with Bhutan, based on the priorities of the Royal Government of Bhutan." The two sides discussed all aspects of bilateral relations, including high-level exchanges, economic and development co-operation, hydro-power co-operation and people to people ties. &nbsp;

Lotay Tshering became the new PM of Bhutan on 7th November. This year both the countries are marking the Golden Jubilee year of establishing diplomatic ties and several commemorative activities are being jointly organized.&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary also called on foreign Minister Lyonpo Dr Tandi Dorji and met Foreign Secretary of Bhutan Ambassador Sonam Tshong. He had an audience with the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck His Majesty Jigme &amp; &nbsp;the Fourth King of Bhutan Singye Wangchuck.

Bhutan's Doklam area was the centre of a tiff between China and India in 2017 after Chinese forces sought to occupy the area by building a road. During the standoff, Bhutan had conveyed to the Chinese side that the construction of the road inside Bhutanese territory is a direct violation of the agreements and affects the process of demarcating the boundary between both the neighbours.

Though both New Delhi and Bejing finally managed to cool of the tensions, it is a precarious peace.

In the first-ever Interaction between Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering and New Delhi, Tshering has expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Modi for the telephonic call to felicitate him on election victory and said that he is committed to strengthening the special bond of friendship and cooperation shared by the two countries.

In the first-ever Interaction between Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering and New Delhi, Tshering has expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Modi for the telephonic call to felicitate him on election victory and said that he is committed to strengthening the special bond of friendship and cooperation shared by the two countries. India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale was on a visit to Bhutan from 18th to November 20. This was the first ever high-level govt visit from India to Bhutan ever since the new govt took charge. The Bhutanese PM told FS Gokhale that, “Our foreign policy should not change every five years with a change in government". According to Ministry of the external affairs press release, the Foreign Secretary conveyed that "India attaches the highest priority to further expanding its unique ties of friendship and cooperation with Bhutan, based on the priorities of the Royal Government of Bhutan." The two sides discussed all aspects of bilateral relations, including high-level exchanges, economic and development co-operation, hydro-power co-operation and people to people ties. Lotay Tshering became the new PM of Bhutan on 7th November. This year both the countries are marking the Golden Jubilee year of establishing diplomatic ties and several commemorative activities are being jointly organized. Foreign Secretary also called on foreign Minister Lyonpo Dr Tandi Dorji and met Foreign Secretary of Bhutan Ambassador Sonam Tshong. He had an audience with the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck His Majesty Jigme & the Fourth King of Bhutan Singye Wangchuck. Bhutan's Doklam area was the centre of a tiff between China and India in 2017 after Chinese forces sought to occupy the area by building a road. During the standoff, Bhutan had conveyed to the Chinese side that the construction of the road inside Bhutanese territory is a direct violation of the agreements and affects the process of demarcating the boundary between both the neighbours. Though both New Delhi and Bejing finally managed to cool of the tensions, it is a precarious peace.

Our foreign policy should not change every five years with change in government: Bhutan PM to India

A Delhi court on Tuesday announced death penalty to convict Yashpal Singh in the anti-Sikh riots case. This was the first ever capital punishment in the case.&nbsp;

Yashpal Singh was accused of killing two men in the riots that took place in 1984. Co-convict Naresh Sherawat has been given life-term by the court.

According to news agency PTI, the verdict was pronounced in the Tihar Jail due to security concerns and attack on the convicts on the Delhi court's premises.

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Death sentence to Yashpal Singh &amp; life imprisonment to Naresh Sehrawat in 1984 Anti-Sikh riots case. Both convicts fined with Rs 35 lakh each. The verdict was pronounced in Tihar Jail instead of the court: Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Kumar Gyanesh <a href="https://t.co/SSRwCE0xvF">pic.twitter.com/SSRwCE0xvF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064854923228168198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh tweeted out saying that justice has finally been meted out. He hoped that others involved in the case are also brought to justice.&nbsp;

"Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts," the tweet read.&nbsp;

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Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts.
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1064853830335000576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yashpal Singh and Naresh Sherawat were convicted on November 14 for killing two men during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. This was the first conviction in the cases reopened by the SIT.

The case was closed by the Delhi Police in 1994 for want of evidence but was reopened by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The 1984 riots, which had erupted after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had claimed about 3,000 lives across India.

(With inputs from PTI) &nbsp;

A Delhi court on Tuesday announced death penalty to convict Yashpal Singh in the anti-Sikh riots case. This was the first ever capital punishment in the case. Yashpal Singh was accused of killing two men in the riots that took place in 1984.

A Delhi court on Tuesday announced death penalty to convict Yashpal Singh in the anti-Sikh riots case. This was the first ever capital punishment in the case. Yashpal Singh was accused of killing two men in the riots that took place in 1984. Co-convict Naresh Sherawat has been given life-term by the court. According to news agency PTI, the verdict was pronounced in the Tihar Jail due to security concerns and attack on the convicts on the Delhi court's premises. Death sentence to Yashpal Singh & life imprisonment to Naresh Sehrawat in 1984 Anti-Sikh riots case. Both convicts fined with Rs 35 lakh each. The verdict was pronounced in Tihar Jail instead of the court: Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Kumar Gyanesh pic.twitter.com/SSRwCE0xvF — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh tweeted out saying that justice has finally been meted out. He hoped that others involved in the case are also brought to justice. "Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts," the tweet read. Welcome the first conviction by a Delhi court in the 1984 riots case. Justice has finally been meted out to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes. Hope the others involved in the attacks are also soon brought to book for their horrendous and inhuman acts. — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) November 20, 2018 × Yashpal Singh and Naresh Sherawat were convicted on November 14 for killing two men during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. This was the first conviction in the cases reopened by the SIT. The case was closed by the Delhi Police in 1994 for want of evidence but was reopened by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The 1984 riots, which had erupted after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had claimed about 3,000 lives across India. (With inputs from PTI)

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Delhi court sentences 2 convicts, announces first death penalty in case

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

The others seats, namely, Baikunthupur, Mannendragarh and Bharatpur-Sonhat recorded 32.3 per cent, 24 per cent and 25.10 per cent polling respectively till 12.30 pm. 
 
The polling is taking place in 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts. The voting which commenced at 8 am is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

As many as 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. The others seats, namely, Baikunthupur, Mannendragarh and Bharatpur-Sonhat recorded 32.3 per cent, 24 per cent and 25.10 per cent polling respectively till 12.30 pm. The polling is taking place in 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts. The voting which commenced at 8 am is scheduled to end at 5 pm. As many as 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.

Chhattisgarh polls: 45.2% polling recorded till 3 pm

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor.&nbsp;

He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity.

The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France.

"The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said.

In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice.

"To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor.&nbsp;

The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections.

Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average.

"This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. 
Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI. Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor. He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity. The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France. "The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said. In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice. "To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor. The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections. Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average. "This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Government interfering in functioning of important institutions like EC, CBI: Rahul Gandhi

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter.

Addressing a public meeting organised by his party in Nirmal on Monday night, Owaisi alleged that A Maheshwar Reddy called a MIM leader on phone and offered to pay Rs 25 lakh as bribe to stop him from holding the meeting. He also claimed to have recorded the conversation.

Rejecting the charge, Reddy termed it as baseless and false and said he would quit politics if Owaisi proved it.

MIM, which is on friendly terms with the TRS, has not fielded its candidate in Nirmal Assembly seat, and organised the meeting in support of the ruling party candidate though there was no formal electoral tie-up between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections.

The MIM is contesting eight seats -- all in Hyderabad -- while the TRS is going it alone in the polls to the 119-member assembly. Congress heading a 'grand alliance' of TDP, CPI and TJS has announced candidates for 94 segments.

"Now when this jalsa (meeting) is happening the Congress people tried to buy Asaduddin Owaisi. Maheshwar (Reddy) phoned a MIM leader telling him to stop Owaisi Saheb, (and) will give Rs 25 lakh party fund. I have the recording (of that phone conversation)," Owaisi said at the meeting.

This Congress candidate wants to buy my party for Rs 25 lakh. "Ye log samajthe hain ham apni jamat ka sauda karenge" (these people think we do deal for our party) Rs 25 lakh that is the sign of their arrogance," the Hyderabad MP alleged.&nbsp;

Strongly refuting Owaisis allegations, Reddy dared Owaisi to prove the charge with evidence.

"Why should somebody stop someone's rally. Owaisi has already started campaigning for TRS party and now this man says that he is being stopped with an offer of Rs 25 lakh. Why somebody will offer him Rs 25 lakh and why he will stop," he told PTI.

"I want to make it very clear if really somebody had called him or met him or if he has any evidence let him show the evidences. I am ready to take it as a challenge and I am ready to quit politics if it is proved. Is he ready to quit politics, if it is untrue? he asked.

They were talking of something which was "baseless and false", he added.&nbsp;

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter.

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter. Addressing a public meeting organised by his party in Nirmal on Monday night, Owaisi alleged that A Maheshwar Reddy called a MIM leader on phone and offered to pay Rs 25 lakh as bribe to stop him from holding the meeting. He also claimed to have recorded the conversation. Rejecting the charge, Reddy termed it as baseless and false and said he would quit politics if Owaisi proved it. MIM, which is on friendly terms with the TRS, has not fielded its candidate in Nirmal Assembly seat, and organised the meeting in support of the ruling party candidate though there was no formal electoral tie-up between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections. The MIM is contesting eight seats -- all in Hyderabad -- while the TRS is going it alone in the polls to the 119-member assembly. Congress heading a 'grand alliance' of TDP, CPI and TJS has announced candidates for 94 segments. "Now when this jalsa (meeting) is happening the Congress people tried to buy Asaduddin Owaisi. Maheshwar (Reddy) phoned a MIM leader telling him to stop Owaisi Saheb, (and) will give Rs 25 lakh party fund. I have the recording (of that phone conversation)," Owaisi said at the meeting. This Congress candidate wants to buy my party for Rs 25 lakh. "Ye log samajthe hain ham apni jamat ka sauda karenge" (these people think we do deal for our party) Rs 25 lakh that is the sign of their arrogance," the Hyderabad MP alleged. Strongly refuting Owaisis allegations, Reddy dared Owaisi to prove the charge with evidence. "Why should somebody stop someone's rally. Owaisi has already started campaigning for TRS party and now this man says that he is being stopped with an offer of Rs 25 lakh. Why somebody will offer him Rs 25 lakh and why he will stop," he told PTI. "I want to make it very clear if really somebody had called him or met him or if he has any evidence let him show the evidences. I am ready to take it as a challenge and I am ready to quit politics if it is proved. Is he ready to quit politics, if it is untrue? he asked. They were talking of something which was "baseless and false", he added.

Owaisi hurls bribe charge, Congress candidate rejects allegation

Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has been accused of inciting hate against India's highest caste after being photographed holding a poster declaring "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/happy-to-see-the-passion-with-which-youre-leading-pm-modi-meets-twitter-ceo-jack-dorsey-177171">smash Brahminical patriarchy</a>" during a visit to the country.

Dorsey was snapped holding the offending poster alongside six women who participated in a discussion last week on the role of Twitter in India, where caste is a flashpoint issue and grievances can turn violent.

The reference to Brahmins, the traditional priestly class who sit atop the rigid caste hierarchy, outraged some Hindus when the photograph was posted online Sunday evening.

"Do you realise that this picture has potential of causing communal riots at a time when several States are going to Assembly Elections in India," tweeted Indian police officer Sandeep Mittal.

Another user, tweeting under the name&nbsp;Prassant DeshPehle (country first), wrote: "Shame on you @jack. Hate against any community or group should be condemned. Spewing hate on one to please the other isn't right."

Late on Monday, Vijaya Gadde, legal, policy and trust and safety lead at Twitter who accompanied Dorsey to India, apologised.

"I'm very sorry for this. It's not reflective of our views. We took a private photo with a gift just given to us - we should have been more thoughtful," she said in a tweet. "Twitter strives to be an impartial platform for all. We failed to do that here &amp; we must do better to serve our customers in India."

Meanwhile, others praised the Twitter chief for touching on the plight of marginalised, low-caste Dalit communities and women in India, a conservative country of 1.25 billion.

"Dalit lynching and oppression, incidents of which we read about every other day, do not cause as much Twitter outrage as Jack Dorsey holding up a placard saying 'End Brahmin Patriarchy'," wrote user Ranjona Banerji.

South Asian historian Audrey Truschke said: "My Twitter feed is full of elite men hyperventilating about Twitter CEO @jack holding a sign that calls out sex-based &amp; caste-based discrimination in India."

"Caste and sexism are real and virulent in modern India. If you want to be angry about something, let it be that reality," she added.

Caste politics can explode into violence in India, where a centuries-old hierarchy has divided Hindus into classes starting with Brahmins and ending with the Dalits -- formerly known as "untouchables".

Although the system has been officially abolished, it still prevails in rural areas and determines where people live, who they marry and what type of work they do.

Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has been accused of inciting hate against India's highest caste after being photographed holding a poster declaring "smash Brahminical patriarchy" during a visit to the country.

Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has been accused of inciting hate against India's highest caste after being photographed holding a poster declaring "smash Brahminical patriarchy" during a visit to the country. Dorsey was snapped holding the offending poster alongside six women who participated in a discussion last week on the role of Twitter in India, where caste is a flashpoint issue and grievances can turn violent. The reference to Brahmins, the traditional priestly class who sit atop the rigid caste hierarchy, outraged some Hindus when the photograph was posted online Sunday evening. "Do you realise that this picture has potential of causing communal riots at a time when several States are going to Assembly Elections in India," tweeted Indian police officer Sandeep Mittal. Another user, tweeting under the name Prassant DeshPehle (country first), wrote: "Shame on you @jack. Hate against any community or group should be condemned. Spewing hate on one to please the other isn't right." Late on Monday, Vijaya Gadde, legal, policy and trust and safety lead at Twitter who accompanied Dorsey to India, apologised. "I'm very sorry for this. It's not reflective of our views. We took a private photo with a gift just given to us - we should have been more thoughtful," she said in a tweet. "Twitter strives to be an impartial platform for all. We failed to do that here & we must do better to serve our customers in India." Meanwhile, others praised the Twitter chief for touching on the plight of marginalised, low-caste Dalit communities and women in India, a conservative country of 1.25 billion. "Dalit lynching and oppression, incidents of which we read about every other day, do not cause as much Twitter outrage as Jack Dorsey holding up a placard saying 'End Brahmin Patriarchy'," wrote user Ranjona Banerji. South Asian historian Audrey Truschke said: "My Twitter feed is full of elite men hyperventilating about Twitter CEO @jack holding a sign that calls out sex-based & caste-based discrimination in India." "Caste and sexism are real and virulent in modern India. If you want to be angry about something, let it be that reality," she added. Caste politics can explode into violence in India, where a centuries-old hierarchy has divided Hindus into classes starting with Brahmins and ending with the Dalits -- formerly known as "untouchables". Although the system has been officially abolished, it still prevails in rural areas and determines where people live, who they marry and what type of work they do.

Twitter says sorry after CEO Dorsey is snapped with anti-Brahminism poster

The BJP's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-attempt-glorify-terrorism-will-backfire-says-sushma-swaraj-unga-168457">Sushma Swaraj</a> said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

"It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," says External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://t.co/ao8FIee2I0">pic.twitter.com/ao8FIee2I0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064820823968677888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections: External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://t.co/G3cHC6pKGh">pic.twitter.com/G3cHC6pKGh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064803440877023232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj is currently India's external affairs minister, MP from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, and one of the BJP's tallest leaders.&nbsp;

Swaraj made her announcement to reporters in Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

Posters had come up recently in Vidisha questioning Swaraj's prolonged absence from the town. When it was brought up at a press conference, Swaraj said she would not be contesting the next elections.&nbsp;

News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons.&nbsp;

Swaraj has a kidney transplant. She took time off from work in 2016 because of a diabetes condition.&nbsp;

The reports however quoted BJP sources as saying the party might bring Sushma back to Parliament via the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below). #WATCH: "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," says External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/ao8FIee2I0 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections: External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/G3cHC6pKGh — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × Swaraj is currently India's external affairs minister, MP from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, and one of the BJP's tallest leaders. Swaraj made her announcement to reporters in Madhya Pradesh. Posters had come up recently in Vidisha questioning Swaraj's prolonged absence from the town. When it was brought up at a press conference, Swaraj said she would not be contesting the next elections. News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons. Swaraj has a kidney transplant. She took time off from work in 2016 because of a diabetes condition. The reports however quoted BJP sources as saying the party might bring Sushma back to Parliament via the Rajya Sabha.

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built. This issue comes up only during the elections and once elections are over it is forgotten," as quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account,is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built.This issue comes up only during the elections &amp;once elections are over it is forgotten: Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena in Mumbai <a href="https://t.co/XFlMCTDMUU">pic.twitter.com/XFlMCTDMUU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064803939693023232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Thackeray is set to visit Ayodhya on November 24 and 25 to pay obeisance to the Ram Lalla at Ram Janmabhoomi.&nbsp;

He also came up with a new slogan "pehle mandir, fir sarkaar" (First temple, then government).&nbsp;

The Shiv Sena, which is the part of the BJP-led governments in both Maharashtra and the Centre, has been aggressively pushing for the construction of the temple since the party's annual Dussehra rally last month.

The party has often taunted its ally BJP over the saffron party's "failure" to construct the temple in the last four years despite coming to power.

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla?

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built. This issue comes up only during the elections and once elections are over it is forgotten," as quoted by news agency ANI. Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account,is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built.This issue comes up only during the elections &once elections are over it is forgotten: Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/XFlMCTDMUU — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × Thackeray is set to visit Ayodhya on November 24 and 25 to pay obeisance to the Ram Lalla at Ram Janmabhoomi. He also came up with a new slogan "pehle mandir, fir sarkaar" (First temple, then government). The Shiv Sena, which is the part of the BJP-led governments in both Maharashtra and the Centre, has been aggressively pushing for the construction of the temple since the party's annual Dussehra rally last month. The party has often taunted its ally BJP over the saffron party's "failure" to construct the temple in the last four years despite coming to power.

'Is Ram Mandir also a jumla?' asks Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray

Brown vine snake, endemic to Americas, rescued by forest officials in India

The hearing on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-bribery-case-supreme-court-adjourned-hearing-till-november-29-expresses-displeasure-over-info-leak-178339">CBI Director Alok Verma's case</a> took an unexpected turn on Tuesday after Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi expressed anguish over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/this-mess-is-an-opportunity-for-supreme-court-to-give-cbi-some-muscle-174676">media reports</a> publishing Verma’s response to CVC inquiry report.&nbsp;

Yesterday Alok Verma had filed his response to CVC’s report.&nbsp;

Alok Verma’s petition was the first listed case in CJI’s court.&nbsp;

However, five minutes into the hearing CJI Ranjan Gogoi was fused not only about media reports publishing Verma’s response but with lawyer Gopal Shankarnarayan who had sought more time for Verma to file his response on Monday.&nbsp;

CJI Ranjan Gogoi slammed senior lawyer Fali Nariman (representing Alok Verma) after court-ordered sealed cover documents were published by a news portal.&nbsp;

In fact, CJI handed over the copy of the website's article containing details of Verma’s response to the CVC report expressing immense displeasure about such a leak. &nbsp;

However, Supreme Court said, “For the reasons, this court is inclined not to record, the case is adjourned till 29 November”.&nbsp;

While adjourning the matter, the angry CJI said, “Our efforts to respect the institution is not being shared by anyone for some strange reason. This court is not a platform for people to come and express what they want here is a place for adjudication of legal rights.”

The hearing on CBI Director Alok Verma's case took an unexpected turn on Tuesday after Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi expressed anguish over media reports publishing Verma’s response to CVC inquiry report.

The hearing on CBI Director Alok Verma's case took an unexpected turn on Tuesday after Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi expressed anguish over media reports publishing Verma’s response to CVC inquiry report. Yesterday Alok Verma had filed his response to CVC’s report. Alok Verma’s petition was the first listed case in CJI’s court. However, five minutes into the hearing CJI Ranjan Gogoi was fused not only about media reports publishing Verma’s response but with lawyer Gopal Shankarnarayan who had sought more time for Verma to file his response on Monday. CJI Ranjan Gogoi slammed senior lawyer Fali Nariman (representing Alok Verma) after court-ordered sealed cover documents were published by a news portal. In fact, CJI handed over the copy of the website's article containing details of Verma’s response to the CVC report expressing immense displeasure about such a leak. However, Supreme Court said, “For the reasons, this court is inclined not to record, the case is adjourned till 29 November”. While adjourning the matter, the angry CJI said, “Our efforts to respect the institution is not being shared by anyone for some strange reason. This court is not a platform for people to come and express what they want here is a place for adjudication of legal rights.”

Alok Verma case: Leak of CBI Director’s confidential reply irks Supreme Court

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