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The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/cbi-vs-cbi-cleaning-the-rot-within-176144">CBI Director </a>Alok Verma's plea against govt's decision to divest him of duties, sending him on leave.&nbsp;

"We are not hearing today. We don't think any of you deserve any hearing. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/this-mess-is-an-opportunity-for-supreme-court-to-give-cbi-some-muscle-174676">Matter adjourned </a>to November 29, " visibly agitated CJI said.&nbsp;

CJI Ranjan Gogoi expressed displeasure over leakage of confidential information.&nbsp;

The Apex Court was miffed over the leak of CBI Director Alok Verma's confidential response filed Monday with its secretary general.

Senior advocate and Alok Verma's counsel F S Nariman expresses shock over the leak of CBI director's response.

CJI also conveyed unhappiness over mentioning made by Gopal Sankaranarayanan seeking additional time for the reply. Nariman replies that the mentioning was unauthorized and he got information from it only from media. 
&nbsp; 
On Monday, CBI director Alok Kumar Verma filed in the Supreme Court his response on findings of the CVC's preliminary probe report on corruption charges against him in a sealed cover. The apex court had earlier in the day asked Verma to file his response "as quickly as possible" during the day" and made it clear that it will not adjourn the scheduled hearing on Tuesday after his lawyer sought more time.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on CBI Director Alok Verma's plea against govt's decision to divest him of duties, sending him on leave. "We are not hearing today.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on CBI Director Alok Verma's plea against govt's decision to divest him of duties, sending him on leave. "We are not hearing today. We don't think any of you deserve any hearing. Matter adjourned to November 29, " visibly agitated CJI said. CJI Ranjan Gogoi expressed displeasure over leakage of confidential information. The Apex Court was miffed over the leak of CBI Director Alok Verma's confidential response filed Monday with its secretary general. Senior advocate and Alok Verma's counsel F S Nariman expresses shock over the leak of CBI director's response. CJI also conveyed unhappiness over mentioning made by Gopal Sankaranarayanan seeking additional time for the reply. Nariman replies that the mentioning was unauthorized and he got information from it only from media. On Monday, CBI director Alok Kumar Verma filed in the Supreme Court his response on findings of the CVC's preliminary probe report on corruption charges against him in a sealed cover. The apex court had earlier in the day asked Verma to file his response "as quickly as possible" during the day" and made it clear that it will not adjourn the scheduled hearing on Tuesday after his lawyer sought more time.

Alok Verma case: Supreme Court adjourns hearing till November 29

The Congress party has released its fourth list of six candidates for the upcoming Telangana assembly elections, to be held on December 7.

The decision was announced by General Secretary of the Congress`s Central Election Commission, Mukul Wasnik on Sunday. So far, the party has announced the names of 94 candidates out of 119 seats in the state.

Earlier on Sunday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released the sixth list of six candidates for the upcoming polls in the state. The counting of votes for the high-stakes elections will take place on December 11.

The Telangana State Assembly was dissolved prematurely in September on the recommendation of the ruling K Chandrasekhar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government.&nbsp;

The Congress party has released its fourth list of six candidates for the upcoming Telangana assembly elections, to be held on December 7. The decision was announced by General Secretary of the Congress`s Central Election Commission, Mukul Wasnik on Sunday.

The Congress party has released its fourth list of six candidates for the upcoming Telangana assembly elections, to be held on December 7. The decision was announced by General Secretary of the Congress`s Central Election Commission, Mukul Wasnik on Sunday. So far, the party has announced the names of 94 candidates out of 119 seats in the state. Earlier on Sunday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released the sixth list of six candidates for the upcoming polls in the state. The counting of votes for the high-stakes elections will take place on December 11. The Telangana State Assembly was dissolved prematurely in September on the recommendation of the ruling K Chandrasekhar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government.

Congress releases fourth list of 6 candidates for Telangana polls

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns.

Earlier, Singh had said that "his party loses votes if he campaigns."

Addressing a rally in Indore on Sunday, the Prime Minister said, "One of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign during these elections. The reason is that the Congress fears that if he campaigns, the party will lose as people will recall what the fate of Madhya Pradesh was during the time they were in power."

The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of playing divisive politics and said, "Congress neither has any policy, intention, nor a leader... its leader is confused. Let the naamdar (apparently Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) write down on a piece of paper how many zeroes are there in Rs. 23,000 crore. He will get confused."

He further asserted that these elections are not about who would win or who won`t win but about rejecting the "negative forces who have always focused on the 'divide and rule'&nbsp;approach."

Talking about the development work in Indore city, the Prime Minister announced that as part of the Smart City project, Rs. 23,000 crore will be spent on development of seven cities in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh including Indore over five years. He added, "In last two years, the foreign tourists` influx has increased."

Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

The single-phase election in the state is seen as a direct political battle between the BJP and the Congress. While Chouhan is eyeing to secure his fourth consecutive term as chief minister, the Congress is looking to regain power after 2003.

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns.

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns. Earlier, Singh had said that "his party loses votes if he campaigns." Addressing a rally in Indore on Sunday, the Prime Minister said, "One of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign during these elections. The reason is that the Congress fears that if he campaigns, the party will lose as people will recall what the fate of Madhya Pradesh was during the time they were in power." The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of playing divisive politics and said, "Congress neither has any policy, intention, nor a leader... its leader is confused. Let the naamdar (apparently Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) write down on a piece of paper how many zeroes are there in Rs. 23,000 crore. He will get confused." He further asserted that these elections are not about who would win or who won`t win but about rejecting the "negative forces who have always focused on the 'divide and rule' approach." Talking about the development work in Indore city, the Prime Minister announced that as part of the Smart City project, Rs. 23,000 crore will be spent on development of seven cities in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh including Indore over five years. He added, "In last two years, the foreign tourists` influx has increased." Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11. The single-phase election in the state is seen as a direct political battle between the BJP and the Congress. While Chouhan is eyeing to secure his fourth consecutive term as chief minister, the Congress is looking to regain power after 2003.

Congress not allowing senior leader to campaign to hide failure: PM Modi

In a change of strategy, the BJP on Monday fielded Transport Minister Yoonus Khan against Congress Rajasthan chief Sachin Pilot in the Muslim-dominated Tonk Assembly constituency by replacing sitting MLA Ajit Singh Mehta.

After the Congress fielded Pilot in Tonk, the BJP did brainstorming and replaced Mehta, who figured in the first list issued on November 11.

Khan is a sitting MLA from Deedwana constituency of Nagaur district whose name was kept reserved by the party till the last moment.

The BJP released its fifth list of six candidates on Monday morning in which the party dropped two candidates? Mehta and Shankarlal Kharadi who were earlier given tickets from Tonk and Kherwara seat respectively.

The party gave ticket to Nanala Aahri from Kherwara in place of Shankarlal.

Besides them, the party announced the names of Mukesh Goyel from Kotputali, Mohit Yadav from Behror, O P Saini from Karauli, Rajendra Vinayaka from Kekri and Ramchandra Utta from Khinwsar.

Both Pilot and Khan will file their nomination papers today, the last day of filing nomination papers.&nbsp;

Rajasthan will go to polls on December 7.&nbsp;

In a change of strategy, the BJP on Monday fielded Transport Minister Yoonus Khan against Congress Rajasthan chief Sachin Pilot in the Muslim-dominated Tonk Assembly constituency by replacing sitting MLA Ajit Singh Mehta.

In a change of strategy, the BJP on Monday fielded Transport Minister Yoonus Khan against Congress Rajasthan chief Sachin Pilot in the Muslim-dominated Tonk Assembly constituency by replacing sitting MLA Ajit Singh Mehta. After the Congress fielded Pilot in Tonk, the BJP did brainstorming and replaced Mehta, who figured in the first list issued on November 11. Khan is a sitting MLA from Deedwana constituency of Nagaur district whose name was kept reserved by the party till the last moment. The BJP released its fifth list of six candidates on Monday morning in which the party dropped two candidates? Mehta and Shankarlal Kharadi who were earlier given tickets from Tonk and Kherwara seat respectively. The party gave ticket to Nanala Aahri from Kherwara in place of Shankarlal. Besides them, the party announced the names of Mukesh Goyel from Kotputali, Mohit Yadav from Behror, O P Saini from Karauli, Rajendra Vinayaka from Kekri and Ramchandra Utta from Khinwsar. Both Pilot and Khan will file their nomination papers today, the last day of filing nomination papers. Rajasthan will go to polls on December 7.

Yoonus Khan to contest against Sachin Pilot in Tonk, Mehta dropped

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray Sunday sought to intensify the party’s campaign for Ram temple in Ayodhya by giving a new slogan which called for the construction of temple before government.&nbsp;

Thackeray held a meeting with senior party leaders to review preparations for his visit to Ayodhya on November 24 and 25. Sena leaders from outside Maharashtra too attended the meeting.

“Har Hindu ki yahi pukar, pehle mandir fir sarkar (Every Hindu has one demand, the temple first and then government),” he said at a press conference which was held later. 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. Thackeray also asked party workers to conduct a ‘maha aarati’ (grand puja) on November 24 all over the state as well as in other parts of the country where the Sena has presence. He will be conducting ‘Sarayu puja’ on November 24 in Ayodhya. “All Sena workers will perform puja on the same day and same time in their respective areas,” said Thackeray.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray Sunday sought to intensify the party’s campaign for Ram temple in Ayodhya by giving a new slogan which called for the construction of temple before government.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray Sunday sought to intensify the party’s campaign for Ram temple in Ayodhya by giving a new slogan which called for the construction of temple before government. Thackeray held a meeting with senior party leaders to review preparations for his visit to Ayodhya on November 24 and 25. Sena leaders from outside Maharashtra too attended the meeting. “Har Hindu ki yahi pukar, pehle mandir fir sarkar (Every Hindu has one demand, the temple first and then government),” he said at a press conference which was held later. 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. Thackeray also asked party workers to conduct a ‘maha aarati’ (grand puja) on November 24 all over the state as well as in other parts of the country where the Sena has presence. He will be conducting ‘Sarayu puja’ on November 24 in Ayodhya. “All Sena workers will perform puja on the same day and same time in their respective areas,” said Thackeray.

Ram Temple in Ayodhya before government: Shiv Sena’s new slogan ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha elections

A Delhi court on Monday directed RJD chief Lalu Prasad to appear before it on December 20 through video conference in connection with the IRCTC scam case.

Special judge Arun Bharadwaj passed the directions after he was told that the accused could not appear before the court, as per earlier direction, owing to his ill health.

The court directed the CBI and ED to ensure Lalu’s presence from video conference from the hospital if he is still lodged there, or from jail.

The ED, meanwhile, opposed the bail application of Prasad’s wife Rabri Devi, son Tejaswi Yadav and others on the grounds that they were influential persons who could hamper the probe if granted the relief.

The case relates to alleged irregularities in granting operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

A Delhi court on Monday directed RJD chief Lalu Prasad to appear before it on December 20 through video conference in connection with the IRCTC scam case. Special judge Arun Bharadwaj passed the directions after he was told that the accused could not appear before the court, as per earlier direction, owing to his ill health.

A Delhi court on Monday directed RJD chief Lalu Prasad to appear before it on December 20 through video conference in connection with the IRCTC scam case. Special judge Arun Bharadwaj passed the directions after he was told that the accused could not appear before the court, as per earlier direction, owing to his ill health. The court directed the CBI and ED to ensure Lalu’s presence from video conference from the hospital if he is still lodged there, or from jail. The ED, meanwhile, opposed the bail application of Prasad’s wife Rabri Devi, son Tejaswi Yadav and others on the grounds that they were influential persons who could hamper the probe if granted the relief. The case relates to alleged irregularities in granting operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

IRCTC Scam: Delhi court directs RJD chief Lalu Prasad to appear through video conference

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced a reward of Rs. 50 lakh for anybody providing information on those involved in the Amritsar grenade blast that left three persons dead, officials said.&nbsp;

Information can be provided on the Punjab Police helpline - 181, officials said, adding the identity of the informer will be kept a secret.

The chief minister will visit Amritsar later in the day, officials said. A team of the National Investigation Agency visited the blast site Sunday night along with their investigators and explosive experts. They also held discussions with the top officials of the Punjab Police.

Three persons, including a preacher, were killed and over 20 injured when two-motorcycle borne men threw the grenade on a religious congregation on the city outskirts here on Sunday, an incident which the police are treating as a "terrorist act".

The incident took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan's prayer hall at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, police said.

A religious congregation of the Nirankari followers was being conducted inside the Bhavan at the time of the incident.

The Sant Nirankari Mission is a spiritual organisation and the Bhavan here lies close to the international airport and the Indo-Pak border.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced a reward of Rs. 50 lakh for anybody providing information on those involved in the Amritsar grenade blast that left three persons dead, officials said.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced a reward of Rs. 50 lakh for anybody providing information on those involved in the Amritsar grenade blast that left three persons dead, officials said. Information can be provided on the Punjab Police helpline - 181, officials said, adding the identity of the informer will be kept a secret. The chief minister will visit Amritsar later in the day, officials said. A team of the National Investigation Agency visited the blast site Sunday night along with their investigators and explosive experts. They also held discussions with the top officials of the Punjab Police. Three persons, including a preacher, were killed and over 20 injured when two-motorcycle borne men threw the grenade on a religious congregation on the city outskirts here on Sunday, an incident which the police are treating as a "terrorist act". The incident took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan's prayer hall at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, police said. A religious congregation of the Nirankari followers was being conducted inside the Bhavan at the time of the incident. The Sant Nirankari Mission is a spiritual organisation and the Bhavan here lies close to the international airport and the Indo-Pak border.

Amritsar grenade attack: Punjab govt announces Rs 50 lakh reward for information leading to suspects

A large number of BJP and RSS workers protested outside the official residence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan late Sunday night against the detention of 68 persons at Sabarimala Temple.

"We arrested 68 devotees after overnight protests around Sabarimala," VN Saji, assistant commissioner of Kerala police said.

The members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its mentor the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had gathered in front of Cliff House-- Vijayan's official residence at Nanthancode in Thiruvananthapuram.

Simultaneous protests were also held at various places across the state in Aranmula, Kochi, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ranni, Thodupuzha, Kaladi, Malappuram and Idukki among others.

To further intensify their stir against "police high handedness", a daylong state-wide agitation will be held on Monday by Yuvamorcha, the youth wing of the BJP, its chief said.

"We have organised state-wide protest against this emergency like situation in the state," Yuvamorcha state president Prakash Babu said.

The protesters were taken into preventive custody Sunday night at the Sabarimala Temple after fresh protests broke out at Nadapanthal area in Sannidhanam where hundreds of devotees agitated against the police restrictions.

Even though there were unconfirmed reports that the detained protesters were taken to Maniyar police camp in Pathanamthitta district, officials at Pamba Police Station, which is around 3.5 km downhill, denied any knowledge.

On the second day of the two-month-long pilgrimage season, the devotees had gathered at the covered pathway to the temple when they were asked to leave Sannidhanam.

Due to the early incidents of violence at the hill-top shrine, the police had imposed strict restrictions for devotees at Sannidhanam, including not allowing them to stay back at night.

Superintendent of Police (special officer) Pratheesh Kumar said people were detained for violating Section 144 that prohibits assembly of more than four people at a spot.

"Section 144 had been declared in the area. We had asked them to disperse after the Harivarasanam but most of them refused," the SP said, adding that the police was not against the devotees who wished to offer prayers.

"Those who have to offer 'neyyabhishekam' (anointing deity with ghee) can stay back. They can recite prayers also. We are not against it. The police will assist those who want to offer prayers," he said.

Police sources claimed they had information that the protesters might create trouble at Sannidhanam and therefore, precautions were taken accordingly.

Rajesh, one of the protesters, said, "We are devotees and we started reciting prayers but the police did not allow us, saying Section 144 (prohibitory orders) has been imposed."

He said he did not mind getting arrested for reciting prayers at Sannidhanam.

A large number of BJP and RSS workers protested outside the official residence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan late Sunday night against the detention of 68 persons at Sabarimala Temple.

A large number of BJP and RSS workers protested outside the official residence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan late Sunday night against the detention of 68 persons at Sabarimala Temple. "We arrested 68 devotees after overnight protests around Sabarimala," VN Saji, assistant commissioner of Kerala police said. The members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its mentor the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had gathered in front of Cliff House-- Vijayan's official residence at Nanthancode in Thiruvananthapuram. Simultaneous protests were also held at various places across the state in Aranmula, Kochi, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ranni, Thodupuzha, Kaladi, Malappuram and Idukki among others. To further intensify their stir against "police high handedness", a daylong state-wide agitation will be held on Monday by Yuvamorcha, the youth wing of the BJP, its chief said. "We have organised state-wide protest against this emergency like situation in the state," Yuvamorcha state president Prakash Babu said. The protesters were taken into preventive custody Sunday night at the Sabarimala Temple after fresh protests broke out at Nadapanthal area in Sannidhanam where hundreds of devotees agitated against the police restrictions. Even though there were unconfirmed reports that the detained protesters were taken to Maniyar police camp in Pathanamthitta district, officials at Pamba Police Station, which is around 3.5 km downhill, denied any knowledge. On the second day of the two-month-long pilgrimage season, the devotees had gathered at the covered pathway to the temple when they were asked to leave Sannidhanam. Due to the early incidents of violence at the hill-top shrine, the police had imposed strict restrictions for devotees at Sannidhanam, including not allowing them to stay back at night. Superintendent of Police (special officer) Pratheesh Kumar said people were detained for violating Section 144 that prohibits assembly of more than four people at a spot. "Section 144 had been declared in the area. We had asked them to disperse after the Harivarasanam but most of them refused," the SP said, adding that the police was not against the devotees who wished to offer prayers. "Those who have to offer 'neyyabhishekam' (anointing deity with ghee) can stay back. They can recite prayers also. We are not against it. The police will assist those who want to offer prayers," he said. Police sources claimed they had information that the protesters might create trouble at Sannidhanam and therefore, precautions were taken accordingly. Rajesh, one of the protesters, said, "We are devotees and we started reciting prayers but the police did not allow us, saying Section 144 (prohibitory orders) has been imposed." He said he did not mind getting arrested for reciting prayers at Sannidhanam.

Sabarimala: 68 devotees taken into preventive custody; BJP, RSS protest

Amritsar local youth&nbsp;hand is suspected in the terror attack that killed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-dead-10-injured-in-grenade-attack-at-amritsars-rajasansi-village-178012">three persons and left more than 20 people</a> injured on Sunday. The police are investigating the incident as a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amritsar-grenade-attack-appears-to-be-terrorist-act-punjab-police-178037">terrorist act</a>".

According to reports the attackers did a little recce of the ashram premises twice and knew that religious assemblage occurred on Sundays.

Further, Khalisthan-upheld outfits provided the arms and ammunition, used in the assault, to the attackers.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has announced a reward of Rs 50 lakh for anybody providing information on those involved in the Amritsar grenade blast that left three persons dead, officials said.

On Sunday, Three people and over 20 injured when two motorcycle-borne men threw the grenade on a religious congregation on the outskirts of Amritsar.

The incident took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan's prayer hall at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, police said. A congregation of the Nirankari followers was being held inside at the time.

The Sant Nirankari Mission is a spiritual organisation and the Bhavan here is located close to the international airport and Indo-Pak border.

Amritsar local youth hand is suspected in the terror attack that killed three persons and left more than 20 people injured on Sunday. The police are investigating the incident as a "terrorist act".

Amritsar local youth hand is suspected in the terror attack that killed three persons and left more than 20 people injured on Sunday. The police are investigating the incident as a "terrorist act". According to reports the attackers did a little recce of the ashram premises twice and knew that religious assemblage occurred on Sundays. Further, Khalisthan-upheld outfits provided the arms and ammunition, used in the assault, to the attackers. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has announced a reward of Rs 50 lakh for anybody providing information on those involved in the Amritsar grenade blast that left three persons dead, officials said. On Sunday, Three people and over 20 injured when two motorcycle-borne men threw the grenade on a religious congregation on the outskirts of Amritsar. The incident took place inside the Nirankari Bhavan's prayer hall at Adliwal village near Amritsar's Rajasansi, police said. A congregation of the Nirankari followers was being held inside at the time. The Sant Nirankari Mission is a spiritual organisation and the Bhavan here is located close to the international airport and Indo-Pak border.

Local youth's hand suspected in Amritsar grenade attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a meeting with top industrialists and policymakers over India's vision to break into the top 50 in the World Bank's ease of doing business index.&nbsp;

Addressing the crowd at the meeting 'Reflections on Ease of Doing Business', PM Modi lauded India's efforts towards economic growth and over improvement in quality of life. The Prime Minister stated that all sectors of economy need to improve to take India to the 5 trillion club.

"As per the analysis of Moody and World Economic Forum the position of India has either gone up or is rising. Now our efforts are to take India to the 5 trillion dollar club. To achieve this, we have to improve in all the sectors of the economy," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

India's rank rose 23 places to the 77th spot in the 'Doing Business' rankings released on October 31.

India was ranked 100th in the World Bank's Doing Business Report last year.

"Before 2014, those who had seen instability in policies and policy paralysis, for them it was impossible to believe that India can earn a rank in world’s Top 100 countries," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"But within 4 years, there has been 180 degree change in the country. We are at 77 rank from 142 rank in ‘Ease of Doing Business’. It’s a record for the country," he added.&nbsp;

The meeting 'Reflections on Ease of Doing Business' was organised by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion as the government gears up for India's ranking to leapfrog on the 'Doing Business' index next year and boost the country's investment attractiveness.

Modi also informed that local leaders have been empowered and that implementation of ranking systems is underway on a district level in order to encourage better performance.&nbsp;

"There is a need for infrastructure, development, growth, man force and an increase in per capita income, which will only happen through investments," PM Modi stressed.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a meeting with top industrialists and policymakers over India's vision to break into the top 50 in the World Bank's ease of doing business index.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a meeting with top industrialists and policymakers over India's vision to break into the top 50 in the World Bank's ease of doing business index. Addressing the crowd at the meeting 'Reflections on Ease of Doing Business', PM Modi lauded India's efforts towards economic growth and over improvement in quality of life. The Prime Minister stated that all sectors of economy need to improve to take India to the 5 trillion club. "As per the analysis of Moody and World Economic Forum the position of India has either gone up or is rising. Now our efforts are to take India to the 5 trillion dollar club. To achieve this, we have to improve in all the sectors of the economy," PM Modi said. India's rank rose 23 places to the 77th spot in the 'Doing Business' rankings released on October 31. India was ranked 100th in the World Bank's Doing Business Report last year. "Before 2014, those who had seen instability in policies and policy paralysis, for them it was impossible to believe that India can earn a rank in world’s Top 100 countries," PM Modi said. "But within 4 years, there has been 180 degree change in the country. We are at 77 rank from 142 rank in ‘Ease of Doing Business’. It’s a record for the country," he added. The meeting 'Reflections on Ease of Doing Business' was organised by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion as the government gears up for India's ranking to leapfrog on the 'Doing Business' index next year and boost the country's investment attractiveness. Modi also informed that local leaders have been empowered and that implementation of ranking systems is underway on a district level in order to encourage better performance. "There is a need for infrastructure, development, growth, man force and an increase in per capita income, which will only happen through investments," PM Modi stressed.

Our efforts are to take India to the 5 trillion dollar club: PM Modi

Dubai has approved India’s request to extradite Christen Michel, who is wanted in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestand VVIP chopper deal case.&nbsp;

"The Court decided to consider the possibility of extraditing Christian James Michel to Indian competent authorities," the Court order read.&nbsp;

Michel, a British businessman, is wanted for commercial fraud, bribery and money laundering as part of investigations into the multi-million dollar helicopter purchase deal.

According to WION sources, the Dubai Cassation Court upheld the appellate court’s decision to extradite 54-year-old Michel to the Indian authorities despite having pleaded not guilty.

“The extradition request was lodged by India’s Ministry of External Affairs and it should have been lodged by the Indian Home Ministry,” Michel’s lawyer Abdul Moneim Bin Suwaidan argued before the Dubai Cassation Court.

“As per the Criminal Extradition Accord signed between the UAE and India, the Indian Home Ministry is the authority that should have lodged the request,” the lawyer contended as his client was challenging the extradition decision.

Presiding judge Abdul Aziz Abdullah, on Monday, dismissed Michel’s appeal, upholding the Appeal Court’s to approve the extradition.

India had requested Michel's extradition before the Dubai Public Prosecution last year in February.&nbsp;

The AgustaWestland deal was signed in 2007 for the purchase of 12 luxury helicopters that would be used to ferry top leaders including the president, the prime minister, and former prime ministers.&nbsp;

In 2014, the government scrapped the contract amid allegations that AgustaWestland, which was supplying the luxury helicopters, had paid kickbacks in India.&nbsp;

Former Indian Air Force Chief SP Tyagi was arrested in 2016 over allegations that he had accepted bribes to tailor the specifications of the deal. Tyagi is the first and only air force chief to have been arrested.&nbsp;

Dubai has approved India’s request to extradite Christen Michel, who is wanted in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestand VVIP chopper deal case. "The Court decided to consider the possibility of extraditing Christian James Michel to Indian competent authorities," the Court order read.

Dubai has approved India’s request to extradite Christen Michel, who is wanted in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestand VVIP chopper deal case. "The Court decided to consider the possibility of extraditing Christian James Michel to Indian competent authorities," the Court order read. Michel, a British businessman, is wanted for commercial fraud, bribery and money laundering as part of investigations into the multi-million dollar helicopter purchase deal. According to WION sources, the Dubai Cassation Court upheld the appellate court’s decision to extradite 54-year-old Michel to the Indian authorities despite having pleaded not guilty. “The extradition request was lodged by India’s Ministry of External Affairs and it should have been lodged by the Indian Home Ministry,” Michel’s lawyer Abdul Moneim Bin Suwaidan argued before the Dubai Cassation Court. “As per the Criminal Extradition Accord signed between the UAE and India, the Indian Home Ministry is the authority that should have lodged the request,” the lawyer contended as his client was challenging the extradition decision. Presiding judge Abdul Aziz Abdullah, on Monday, dismissed Michel’s appeal, upholding the Appeal Court’s to approve the extradition. India had requested Michel's extradition before the Dubai Public Prosecution last year in February. The AgustaWestland deal was signed in 2007 for the purchase of 12 luxury helicopters that would be used to ferry top leaders including the president, the prime minister, and former prime ministers. In 2014, the government scrapped the contract amid allegations that AgustaWestland, which was supplying the luxury helicopters, had paid kickbacks in India. Former Indian Air Force Chief SP Tyagi was arrested in 2016 over allegations that he had accepted bribes to tailor the specifications of the deal. Tyagi is the first and only air force chief to have been arrested.

VVIP chopper deal: UAE court 'considering possibility of extraditing Michel' to India

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-doesnt-want-to-hear-suffering-khashoggi-tape-178092">Don't want to hear 'suffering' Khashoggi tape: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump says he has been fully briefed on an audio recording of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder but does not want to listen to it himself.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-slide-as-global-crude-rates-ease-178105">Fuel prices continue to slide as global crude rates ease&nbsp;</a>

State-run oil-marketing companies continued to cut the prices of key transport fuels — petrol and diesel — well into the fifth week on Monday on lower global crude oil prices.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/everybody-in-pakistan-knew-bin-laden-was-there-and-we-gave-them-13-billion-a-year-trump-178099">Everybody in Pakistan knew Bin Laden was there, and we gave them $1.3 billion a year: Trump</a>

President Donald Trump on Sunday defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan, saying the country does not do "a damn thing" for the US and its government had helped al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-republican-rick-scott-wins-florida-senate-race-178098">US midterm elections: Republican Rick Scott wins Florida Senate race</a>

After Democrat Andrew Gillum conceded race for Florida governor to his Republican rival, Ron DeSantis, Republican Rick Scott narrowly won the US Senate seat from Florida beating Democrat Bill Nelson.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-gaja-toll-rises-to-45-protests-surface-over-relief-efforts-178100">Cyclone Gaja toll rises to 45, protests surface over relief efforts</a>

The toll in cyclone Gaja has touched 45, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said Sunday and appealed to all political parties to join in the relief efforts while protests erupted in some districts over alleged failure to provide assistance to the affected people.

&nbsp;

Don't want to hear 'suffering' Khashoggi tape: Trump US President Donald Trump says he has been fully briefed on an audio recording of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder but does not want to listen to it himself.

Don't want to hear 'suffering' Khashoggi tape: Trump US President Donald Trump says he has been fully briefed on an audio recording of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder but does not want to listen to it himself. Fuel prices continue to slide as global crude rates ease State-run oil-marketing companies continued to cut the prices of key transport fuels — petrol and diesel — well into the fifth week on Monday on lower global crude oil prices. Everybody in Pakistan knew Bin Laden was there, and we gave them $1.3 billion a year: Trump President Donald Trump on Sunday defended his administration's decision to stop hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid to Pakistan, saying the country does not do "a damn thing" for the US and its government had helped al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city. US midterm elections: Republican Rick Scott wins Florida Senate race After Democrat Andrew Gillum conceded race for Florida governor to his Republican rival, Ron DeSantis, Republican Rick Scott narrowly won the US Senate seat from Florida beating Democrat Bill Nelson. Cyclone Gaja toll rises to 45, protests surface over relief efforts The toll in cyclone Gaja has touched 45, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said Sunday and appealed to all political parties to join in the relief efforts while protests erupted in some districts over alleged failure to provide assistance to the affected people.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media.

According to reports, both the leaders discussed the future plan. "Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP to save the nation," Naidu stated.

"As senior leaders, Mamata Ji and I have some responsibilities. We've to save the nation and democracy, we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days, democracy is in danger. Institutions like CBI, ED, RBI and others are under pressure," he added.&nbsp;

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As senior leaders, I&amp;Mamata Ji have some responsibilities.We've to save the nation&amp;democracy,we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days,democracy is in danger.Institutions like CBI,ED,RBI&amp;others are under pressure: Andhra Pradesh CM after meeting WB CM <a href="https://t.co/jPGUWonRkW">pic.twitter.com/jPGUWonRkW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064516758411857923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee, on the other hand, stated that "everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan."

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Everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee when asked, "Who will be the face of Mahagathbandhan?" <a href="https://t.co/FHgUrsJJfp">pic.twitter.com/FHgUrsJJfp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064521074694660097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, earlier this month, announced that an anti-BJP meet will be called in New Delhi on November 22 wherein parties would create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action.

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Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP govt to save the nation: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after her meeting with Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu in Howrah <a href="https://t.co/jMi2yx37Mn">pic.twitter.com/jMi2yx37Mn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064521310070542336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said.

The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP.

"Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," he noted.

The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media. According to reports, both the leaders discussed the future plan. "Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP to save the nation," Naidu stated. "As senior leaders, Mamata Ji and I have some responsibilities. We've to save the nation and democracy, we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days, democracy is in danger. Institutions like CBI, ED, RBI and others are under pressure," he added. As senior leaders, I&Mamata Ji have some responsibilities.We've to save the nation&democracy,we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days,democracy is in danger.Institutions like CBI,ED,RBI&others are under pressure: Andhra Pradesh CM after meeting WB CM pic.twitter.com/jPGUWonRkW — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × Banerjee, on the other hand, stated that "everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan." Everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee when asked, "Who will be the face of Mahagathbandhan?" pic.twitter.com/FHgUrsJJfp — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, earlier this month, announced that an anti-BJP meet will be called in New Delhi on November 22 wherein parties would create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action. Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP govt to save the nation: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after her meeting with Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu in Howrah pic.twitter.com/jMi2yx37Mn — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × "This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said. The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP. "Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," he noted. The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added. (With inputs from ANI)

We are all together to fight against BJP to save the nation: Naidu after meeting Mamata Banerjee

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI).

Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country.

In reply to a question amid the important meeting of RBI's BOD, Goyal said, "We are not seeing any tension between government and the RBI. Only Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and you people (media) are showing the signs of tension."

He said, "The government has already clarified that it has not asked for even a single rupee from RBI's reserve fund."

However, Goyal said that as an important national institution, the RBI has some responsibilities towards the country. No person should have any objection, if the central bank's board discusses these responsibilities in the national interest.

The minister refused the Congress chief's allegations that the Narendra Modi government has been making efforts to ruin the RBI.

Goyal alleged, "The previous Congress governments have insulted every constitutional institution of the country. Everyone knows how these governments have shunted out RBI governors in the past."

He said, "The meeting of the RBI's BOD holds time-to- time meetings, why is Rahul getting such a problem with this? Maybe Rahul has little knowledge of corporate governance."

Asked about ongoing CBI fiasco, he said, "The government had to take strict action following the statements of some CBI officers against each-other."

Railway minister said that a fund to the tune of Rs 21,000 crore has been allocated to the state for railways under NDA government.

This amount is six-times more than the fund allocated between 2009 and 2014 to the state during previous UPA government.

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI). Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country.

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI). Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country. In reply to a question amid the important meeting of RBI's BOD, Goyal said, "We are not seeing any tension between government and the RBI. Only Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and you people (media) are showing the signs of tension." He said, "The government has already clarified that it has not asked for even a single rupee from RBI's reserve fund." However, Goyal said that as an important national institution, the RBI has some responsibilities towards the country. No person should have any objection, if the central bank's board discusses these responsibilities in the national interest. The minister refused the Congress chief's allegations that the Narendra Modi government has been making efforts to ruin the RBI. Goyal alleged, "The previous Congress governments have insulted every constitutional institution of the country. Everyone knows how these governments have shunted out RBI governors in the past." He said, "The meeting of the RBI's BOD holds time-to- time meetings, why is Rahul getting such a problem with this? Maybe Rahul has little knowledge of corporate governance." Asked about ongoing CBI fiasco, he said, "The government had to take strict action following the statements of some CBI officers against each-other." Railway minister said that a fund to the tune of Rs 21,000 crore has been allocated to the state for railways under NDA government. This amount is six-times more than the fund allocated between 2009 and 2014 to the state during previous UPA government.

No confrontation between Centre and RBI: Piyush Goyal

The toll in cyclone Gaja has touched 45, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said Sunday and appealed to all political parties to join in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gaja-cyclone-chidambaram-asks-rajnath-to-immediately-send-team-to-tamil-nadu-to-assess-damage-177839">relief efforts</a> while protests erupted in some districts over alleged failure to provide assistance to the affected people.

Palainiswami said 1.7 lakh trees had been uprooted, 735 cattle died, 1.17 lakh houses damaged and 88,102-hectare agricultural land affected in six districts due to the cyclone that crossed the Vedaranyam coast, near Nagapattinam, over 300 km from Chennai, early Friday.

Relief and rehabilitation efforts continued in the districts affected by the cyclone while the worst-hit Vedaranyam town Sunday saw more people seeking refuge in the 60 cyclone relief centres, leading to a shortage of relief materials in some places.

A report from Pudukottai said people in Kotthamangalam village affected by the cyclone went on a rampage, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief and set ablaze five government vehicles and clashed with police.

A Deputy Superintendent of Police was injured as the crowd clashed with the police after heated exchange while blocking road traffic protesting the officials' 'indifference', police said.

Sixty people were arrested in connection with the violence, they said.

In Thanjavur, traffic was blocked by residents to protest the alleged failure to provide any relief to those affected by 'Gaja', which caused destruction in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur districts in Tamil Nadu and Karaikal in neighbouring Puducherry.

Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, who visited Nagapattinam, said relief works in affected districts were going on a war footing and normalcy would be restored soon.

Denying reports that officials were not visiting the affected areas, he said false messages were being spread.

Speaking to reporters in Salem, Palaniswami said the state government was collecting details about areas which have been badly affected by the cyclone and ministers were deployed to monitor the relief operations.

"In villages, lots of trees and standing crops have been damaged, affecting the livelihood of farmers. The extent of damage is being evaluated. Till now, 45 people have lost their lives due to the cyclone," he said.

The state government has announced a solatium of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of those killed in the cyclone-related incidents.

People with severe injuries would be provided Rs one lakh each while those whose with minor wounds would get Rs 25,000 as compensation.

Nearly 2.50 lakh people were provided with accommodation in 483 relief camps. Besides, 1,014 mobile medical vans have been set up and so far one lakh people in affected areas have benefited from it, the chief minister said.

Noting that 39,938 electric poles and 347 transformers were damaged in the affected districts, he said 12,532 men of the state electricity board have been dispatched to take up the repair work.

Urging all political leaders and people to extend a helping hand in this time of need, the Chief Minister said, "There should not be any differences like the opposition, ruling party in taking up relief operations. I appeal to everyone to help the affected people."

Asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit Tamil Nadu, he said the state government has informed the Centre about the damage caused by the cyclone.

Modi had already spoken to Palaniswami and assured all help to the state.

On whether the government would seek the Army's assistance, Palaniswami said, "As of now officials and ministers have been directed to visit the affected places. If required we will seek assistance from the Centre."

"Currently, were are facing challenges in removing uprooted trees and replacing the damaged electricity poles," he said.

The toll in cyclone Gaja has touched 45, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said Sunday and appealed to all political parties to join in the relief efforts while protests erupted in some districts over alleged failure to provide assistance to the affected people.

The toll in cyclone Gaja has touched 45, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said Sunday and appealed to all political parties to join in the relief efforts while protests erupted in some districts over alleged failure to provide assistance to the affected people. Palainiswami said 1.7 lakh trees had been uprooted, 735 cattle died, 1.17 lakh houses damaged and 88,102-hectare agricultural land affected in six districts due to the cyclone that crossed the Vedaranyam coast, near Nagapattinam, over 300 km from Chennai, early Friday. Relief and rehabilitation efforts continued in the districts affected by the cyclone while the worst-hit Vedaranyam town Sunday saw more people seeking refuge in the 60 cyclone relief centres, leading to a shortage of relief materials in some places. A report from Pudukottai said people in Kotthamangalam village affected by the cyclone went on a rampage, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief and set ablaze five government vehicles and clashed with police. A Deputy Superintendent of Police was injured as the crowd clashed with the police after heated exchange while blocking road traffic protesting the officials' 'indifference', police said. Sixty people were arrested in connection with the violence, they said. In Thanjavur, traffic was blocked by residents to protest the alleged failure to provide any relief to those affected by 'Gaja', which caused destruction in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur districts in Tamil Nadu and Karaikal in neighbouring Puducherry. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, who visited Nagapattinam, said relief works in affected districts were going on a war footing and normalcy would be restored soon. Denying reports that officials were not visiting the affected areas, he said false messages were being spread. Speaking to reporters in Salem, Palaniswami said the state government was collecting details about areas which have been badly affected by the cyclone and ministers were deployed to monitor the relief operations. "In villages, lots of trees and standing crops have been damaged, affecting the livelihood of farmers. The extent of damage is being evaluated. Till now, 45 people have lost their lives due to the cyclone," he said. The state government has announced a solatium of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of those killed in the cyclone-related incidents. People with severe injuries would be provided Rs one lakh each while those whose with minor wounds would get Rs 25,000 as compensation. Nearly 2.50 lakh people were provided with accommodation in 483 relief camps. Besides, 1,014 mobile medical vans have been set up and so far one lakh people in affected areas have benefited from it, the chief minister said. Noting that 39,938 electric poles and 347 transformers were damaged in the affected districts, he said 12,532 men of the state electricity board have been dispatched to take up the repair work. Urging all political leaders and people to extend a helping hand in this time of need, the Chief Minister said, "There should not be any differences like the opposition, ruling party in taking up relief operations. I appeal to everyone to help the affected people." Asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit Tamil Nadu, he said the state government has informed the Centre about the damage caused by the cyclone. Modi had already spoken to Palaniswami and assured all help to the state. On whether the government would seek the Army's assistance, Palaniswami said, "As of now officials and ministers have been directed to visit the affected places. If required we will seek assistance from the Centre." "Currently, were are facing challenges in removing uprooted trees and replacing the damaged electricity poles," he said.

Cyclone Gaja toll rises to 45, protests surface over relief efforts

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-lost-over-123-billion-by-joining-us-war-on-terror-aid-received-was-minuscule-20-bn-imran-khan-on-trumps-tirade-178222">Pak lost over $123 bn by joining US war on terror; aid received was minuscule: Imran Khan on Trump's tirade</a>

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reacted to Donald Trump's latest tirade on Islamabad. In a series of tweets, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf chief stated that "no Pakistani was involved in 9/11 but Pak decided to participate in US war on terror."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-set-to-pull-out-of-china-free-trade-deal-says-senior-lawmaker-178234">Maldives set to pull out of China free trade deal, says senior lawmaker</a>

The Maldives’ new government will pull out of a free trade agreement (FTA) with China because it was a mistake for the tiny nation to strike such a pact with the world’s second biggest economy, the head of the largest party in the ruling alliance said.VVIP chopper deal case: UAE court says 'considering possibility of extraditing Michel' to India

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-court-says-considering-possibility-of-extraditing-michel-to-india-sources-178235">VVIP chopper deal case: UAE court says 'considering possibility of extraditing Michel' to India</a>

Dubai has approved India’s request to extradite Christen Michel, who is wanted in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestand VVIP chopper deal case.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nissan-chairman-carlos-ghosn-arrested-in-tokyo-for-financial-misconduct-178200">Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn arrested in Tokyo for financial misconduct</a>

Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested on Monday in Tokyo for financial misconduct, news agency AFP reported quoting Japanese media.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-security-adviser-ajit-doval-interfered-in-asthana-probe-cbi-director-tells-top-court-178202">National Security Adviser Ajit Doval interfered in Asthana probe, CBI official tells top court</a>

A CBI officer, who was probing the FIR lodged against Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of his transfer to Nagpur in Maharashtra.

Pak lost over $123 bn by joining US war on terror; aid received was minuscule: Imran Khan on Trump's tirade Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reacted to Donald Trump's latest tirade on Islamabad.

Pak lost over $123 bn by joining US war on terror; aid received was minuscule: Imran Khan on Trump's tirade Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reacted to Donald Trump's latest tirade on Islamabad. In a series of tweets, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf chief stated that "no Pakistani was involved in 9/11 but Pak decided to participate in US war on terror." Maldives set to pull out of China free trade deal, says senior lawmaker The Maldives’ new government will pull out of a free trade agreement (FTA) with China because it was a mistake for the tiny nation to strike such a pact with the world’s second biggest economy, the head of the largest party in the ruling alliance said.VVIP chopper deal case: UAE court says 'considering possibility of extraditing Michel' to India VVIP chopper deal case: UAE court says 'considering possibility of extraditing Michel' to India Dubai has approved India’s request to extradite Christen Michel, who is wanted in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestand VVIP chopper deal case. Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn arrested in Tokyo for financial misconduct Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn was arrested on Monday in Tokyo for financial misconduct, news agency AFP reported quoting Japanese media. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval interfered in Asthana probe, CBI official tells top court A CBI officer, who was probing the FIR lodged against Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of his transfer to Nagpur in Maharashtra.

Amidst the ongoing feud inside the premier investigation agency, another CBI officer has moved the Supreme Court challenging his repatriation to the Intelligence Bureau, terming it "unjustified" and "mala fide".

Deputy SP Ashwini Kumar Gupta has alleged that he was repatriated to his parent Intelligence Bureau (IB) cadre as he was investigating various corruption charges against CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana, who has been divested of his duties and sent on leave along with CBI Director Alok Kumar Verma.

Gupta, in his plea, said he had joined the Intelligence Bureau in January 1999 and inducted on deputation to the CBI in July 2014, initially for three years, till June 2017.

Subsequently, he was granted one-year extension in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) till June 2018 after a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from his parent department.

"CBI wrote to IB seeking NOC again for a further extension of the tenure of the Applicant in CBI till June 2019. The IB in June 2018 again gave NOC for further extension of the tenure of the applicant, which was forwarded by the CBI to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) in June 2018 itself for its approval as per the procedural requirement, which is presently under process," the plea stated.&nbsp;

The officer claimed that "surprisingly", on the morning of October 24, 2018, the CBI repatriated him to his parent organisation on the ground that the order of his extension had not been received by the CBI.

"Whereas the fact of the matter is that the NOC from IB was received by the CBI in June 2018 before the expiry of deputation of the applicant and was forwarded to DoPT for their approval in the same month," Gupta said.

He said "singling out" of the applicant was due to the fact that he was one of the officials carrying out the investigation, along with another officer A K Bassi, which led to the unearthing of crucial findings, as well as implicating Asthana in the Sterling Biotech case registered on August 30, 2017.

The officer said he along with Bassi, who has been transferred to Port Blair, visited Vadodara on October 7, 2018, and conducted the probe till October 13.

"The gist of the findings of the inquiry conducted at Vadodara...Led to the establishment of 'undeniable, cogent, clear and unmistakable' link of Asthana and his family with fugitive accused Nitin and Chetan Sandesara, and that infuriated Asthana so much that he made a mention of the same in his complaint to the Cabinet Secretary on October 18," he said.&nbsp;

Asthana has levelled corruption allegations against Verma.

Gupta termed his repatriation as "motivated" and "mala fide", urging the court to quash it.&nbsp;

Both Bassi and Gupta have filed applications seeking to intervene in the pending petition filed by Verma, who had approached the apex court challenging the Centre's decision to divest him of his duties and sending him on leave following his feud with Asthana.

Pursuant to the top court's order, the Central Vigilance Commission's inquiry against Verma was conducted under the supervision of former apex court judge Justice A K Patnaik. The report was filed in the court on November 12.&nbsp;

Amidst the ongoing feud inside the premier investigation agency, another CBI officer has moved the Supreme Court challenging his repatriation to the Intelligence Bureau, terming it "unjustified" and "mala fide".

Amidst the ongoing feud inside the premier investigation agency, another CBI officer has moved the Supreme Court challenging his repatriation to the Intelligence Bureau, terming it "unjustified" and "mala fide". Deputy SP Ashwini Kumar Gupta has alleged that he was repatriated to his parent Intelligence Bureau (IB) cadre as he was investigating various corruption charges against CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana, who has been divested of his duties and sent on leave along with CBI Director Alok Kumar Verma. Gupta, in his plea, said he had joined the Intelligence Bureau in January 1999 and inducted on deputation to the CBI in July 2014, initially for three years, till June 2017. Subsequently, he was granted one-year extension in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) till June 2018 after a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from his parent department. "CBI wrote to IB seeking NOC again for a further extension of the tenure of the Applicant in CBI till June 2019. The IB in June 2018 again gave NOC for further extension of the tenure of the applicant, which was forwarded by the CBI to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) in June 2018 itself for its approval as per the procedural requirement, which is presently under process," the plea stated. The officer claimed that "surprisingly", on the morning of October 24, 2018, the CBI repatriated him to his parent organisation on the ground that the order of his extension had not been received by the CBI. "Whereas the fact of the matter is that the NOC from IB was received by the CBI in June 2018 before the expiry of deputation of the applicant and was forwarded to DoPT for their approval in the same month," Gupta said. He said "singling out" of the applicant was due to the fact that he was one of the officials carrying out the investigation, along with another officer A K Bassi, which led to the unearthing of crucial findings, as well as implicating Asthana in the Sterling Biotech case registered on August 30, 2017. The officer said he along with Bassi, who has been transferred to Port Blair, visited Vadodara on October 7, 2018, and conducted the probe till October 13. "The gist of the findings of the inquiry conducted at Vadodara...Led to the establishment of 'undeniable, cogent, clear and unmistakable' link of Asthana and his family with fugitive accused Nitin and Chetan Sandesara, and that infuriated Asthana so much that he made a mention of the same in his complaint to the Cabinet Secretary on October 18," he said. Asthana has levelled corruption allegations against Verma. Gupta termed his repatriation as "motivated" and "mala fide", urging the court to quash it. Both Bassi and Gupta have filed applications seeking to intervene in the pending petition filed by Verma, who had approached the apex court challenging the Centre's decision to divest him of his duties and sending him on leave following his feud with Asthana. Pursuant to the top court's order, the Central Vigilance Commission's inquiry against Verma was conducted under the supervision of former apex court judge Justice A K Patnaik. The report was filed in the court on November 12.

CBI crisis: Deputy SP Ashwini Gupta moves SC challenging repatriation to IB

A letter containing what police claimed was the phone number of senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh was made part of the charge sheet against 10 activists arrested for alleged Maoist links in connection with the Elgar Parishad case, a senior official said today.

"The phone number they are mentioning is avaible to everyone via Rajya Sabha's portal. I haven't used it since last four years. If I am involved in any kind of anti-national activities then Modi Ji, Rajnath Ji &amp; Fadnavis Ji can take action against me,"&nbsp;Singh said.

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The phone number they are mentioning is avaible to everyone via Rajya Sabha's portal. I haven't used it since last four years. If I am involved in any kind of anti-national activities then Modi Ji, Rajnath Ji &amp; Fadnavis Ji can take action against me: Digvijaya Singh, Congress <a href="https://t.co/dIFD53fO1q">pic.twitter.com/dIFD53fO1q</a>
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The letter was seized during nationwide raids conducted by the Pune police in connection with the case following which these activists were arrested, he said.

The Pune police recently filed its charge sheet against five activists - Surendra Gadling, Shoma Sen, Mahesh Raut, Rona Wilson and Sudhir Dhavale, who were arrested in June.

The letter in question, dated September 25, 2017, is addressed to Surendra (who police claim is Surendra Gadling) by one comrade Prakash, the official said.

A portion of the letter reads, "We must intensify nationwide protests using students. State forces will be soft against students which will gradually put the state at a disadvantage while acting against us. Congress leaders are very much willing to assist in this process and have also agreed to fund further agitations.... In this regard, you can contact our friend at (the phone number of Digvijaya Singh as per police)".

A senior official associated with the probe said the letter had been made part of the charge sheet and is under investigation.

Asked if Digvijaya Singh would be summoned for questioning, senior police officer in Pune Suhas Bavche said several numbers had cropped up in the letters seized during the raids and the ownership of these numbers and their roles in the case are being probed.

"If someone's role is established, whatever is needed to be done as part of the investigation, will be done," Bavche said.

Shivaji Bodakhe, Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and order) informed that, as of now, no notice had been issued to any one.

The prosecution had yesterday told court that charges related to "sedition and waging war against the state" had been added against all the accused arrested for Maoist links in connection with the Elgar Parishad.

Government pleader Ujjwala Pawar had told court yesterday that sections 124 (A) (sedition), 121 (waging or attempting to wage war) and 121 (A) (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) had been added to the charge sheet.

The Elgar Parishad was held on December 31, 2017 in Pune to commemorate 200 years of the 1818 Koregaon Bhima battle in which East India Company forces, comprising a large number of Dalit soldiers, defeated the Peshwa army.

(With inputs from agencies)

A letter containing what police claimed was the phone number of senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh was made part of the charge sheet against 10 activists arrested for alleged Maoist links in connection with the Elgar Parishad case, a senior official said today.

A letter containing what police claimed was the phone number of senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh was made part of the charge sheet against 10 activists arrested for alleged Maoist links in connection with the Elgar Parishad case, a senior official said today. "The phone number they are mentioning is avaible to everyone via Rajya Sabha's portal. I haven't used it since last four years. If I am involved in any kind of anti-national activities then Modi Ji, Rajnath Ji & Fadnavis Ji can take action against me," Singh said. The phone number they are mentioning is avaible to everyone via Rajya Sabha's portal. I haven't used it since last four years. If I am involved in any kind of anti-national activities then Modi Ji, Rajnath Ji & Fadnavis Ji can take action against me: Digvijaya Singh, Congress pic.twitter.com/dIFD53fO1q — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × The letter was seized during nationwide raids conducted by the Pune police in connection with the case following which these activists were arrested, he said. The Pune police recently filed its charge sheet against five activists - Surendra Gadling, Shoma Sen, Mahesh Raut, Rona Wilson and Sudhir Dhavale, who were arrested in June. The letter in question, dated September 25, 2017, is addressed to Surendra (who police claim is Surendra Gadling) by one comrade Prakash, the official said. A portion of the letter reads, "We must intensify nationwide protests using students. State forces will be soft against students which will gradually put the state at a disadvantage while acting against us. Congress leaders are very much willing to assist in this process and have also agreed to fund further agitations.... In this regard, you can contact our friend at (the phone number of Digvijaya Singh as per police)". A senior official associated with the probe said the letter had been made part of the charge sheet and is under investigation. Asked if Digvijaya Singh would be summoned for questioning, senior police officer in Pune Suhas Bavche said several numbers had cropped up in the letters seized during the raids and the ownership of these numbers and their roles in the case are being probed. "If someone's role is established, whatever is needed to be done as part of the investigation, will be done," Bavche said. Shivaji Bodakhe, Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and order) informed that, as of now, no notice had been issued to any one. The prosecution had yesterday told court that charges related to "sedition and waging war against the state" had been added against all the accused arrested for Maoist links in connection with the Elgar Parishad. Government pleader Ujjwala Pawar had told court yesterday that sections 124 (A) (sedition), 121 (waging or attempting to wage war) and 121 (A) (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) had been added to the charge sheet. The Elgar Parishad was held on December 31, 2017 in Pune to commemorate 200 years of the 1818 Koregaon Bhima battle in which East India Company forces, comprising a large number of Dalit soldiers, defeated the Peshwa army. (With inputs from agencies)

Elgar Parishad probe: Digvijaya Singh denies Maoist links, challenges PM Modi to take action

A CBI officer, who was probing the FIR lodged against Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of his transfer to Nagpur in Maharashtra.

Taking cue from Alok Verma, CBI joint director Manish Kumar Sinha told the court that the decision “is arbitrary, motivated and malafide, and was made solely with the purpose and intent to victimise the officer as the investigation revealed cogent evidence against certain powerful persons”.

Sinha was conducting an investigation against Asthana for alleged corruption. He mentioned his plea before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi for urgent hearing, but his request was denied. Sinha said that he wanted to bring some shocking facts to light, but the CJI was quick to retort "nothing shocks us".

In his petition, Sinha has alleged that National Security Adviser Ajit Doval tried to hinder and interfere in the investigations against Asthana.

The petition also highlights the alleged bribes taken by&nbsp;Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhari to help settle matters related to CBI. “Sometime in first fortnight of June 2018, a few crores of rupees was paid to Shri Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhary, presently Minister of State for Coal and Mines in Government of India. As per Shri Sana, Shri Haribhai had intervened with the Senior officers of CBI through the office of the Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension [“MOS (P)”], to whom, apparently, the Director - CBI reports to. The money was paid through one Vipul of Ahmedabad. These facts were disclosed by Sana to me on 20.10.2018 in the forenoon. I immediately reported the matter to the Director and the AD (AK Sharma)", the petition says.

Sinha's plea goes on&nbsp;to state&nbsp;that while the&nbsp;entire team probing Asthana was removed, surveillance&nbsp;had found a tape where RAW officer Samant Goel was heard saying, "The PMO has taken care of the CBI issue."

Asthana has also been divested of his duties and sent on leave by the central government following his ongoing feud with the CBI Director.

The CBI had booked Asthana on allegations of receiving a bribe from an accused probed by him in a case linked to meat exporter Moin Qureshi.

A CBI officer, who was probing the FIR lodged against Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of his transfer to Nagpur in Maharashtra.

A CBI officer, who was probing the FIR lodged against Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing of his transfer to Nagpur in Maharashtra. Taking cue from Alok Verma, CBI joint director Manish Kumar Sinha told the court that the decision “is arbitrary, motivated and malafide, and was made solely with the purpose and intent to victimise the officer as the investigation revealed cogent evidence against certain powerful persons”. Sinha was conducting an investigation against Asthana for alleged corruption. He mentioned his plea before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi for urgent hearing, but his request was denied. Sinha said that he wanted to bring some shocking facts to light, but the CJI was quick to retort "nothing shocks us". In his petition, Sinha has alleged that National Security Adviser Ajit Doval tried to hinder and interfere in the investigations against Asthana. The petition also highlights the alleged bribes taken by Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhari to help settle matters related to CBI. “Sometime in first fortnight of June 2018, a few crores of rupees was paid to Shri Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhary, presently Minister of State for Coal and Mines in Government of India. As per Shri Sana, Shri Haribhai had intervened with the Senior officers of CBI through the office of the Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension [“MOS (P)”], to whom, apparently, the Director - CBI reports to. The money was paid through one Vipul of Ahmedabad. These facts were disclosed by Sana to me on 20.10.2018 in the forenoon. I immediately reported the matter to the Director and the AD (AK Sharma)", the petition says. Sinha's plea goes on to state that while the entire team probing Asthana was removed, surveillance had found a tape where RAW officer Samant Goel was heard saying, "The PMO has taken care of the CBI issue." Asthana has also been divested of his duties and sent on leave by the central government following his ongoing feud with the CBI Director. The CBI had booked Asthana on allegations of receiving a bribe from an accused probed by him in a case linked to meat exporter Moin Qureshi.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval interfered in Asthana probe, CBI official tells top court

All arrangements have been made for the second and final phase of the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections to be held in 72 seats of 19 districts on Tuesday amid tight security, with the deployment of over one lakh police personnel.

The fate of nine ministers, assembly speaker and some other prominent leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as well as of the Congress will be decide in the polls.

In the first phase, polling was held in 18 seats of eight Naxal-affected districts on November 12.

Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the BJP has set a target of winning 65 plus seats in the 90-member Assembly, while the Congress is seeking to end its 15-year exile from power in the tribal-dominated state.

The coalition between the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) has added a twist to the poll battle.

Polling will be held from 8 am to 5 pm in these seats of central and north Chhattisgarh where as many as 1,079 candidates, including 72 each from the BJP and the Congress, are in fray, an election official said.

For the second phase of polls, there are 1,53,85,983 voters, including 77,46,628 men, 76,38,415 women and 940 of the third gender.

As many as 19,296 polling booths have been set up for the second phase, the official said.

The highest number of 46 contestants are in the Raipur City South constituency, while the lowest number of six contestants are in the Bindranavagarh seat.

Over one lakh security personnel have been deployed to ensure peaceful polling, a police official said.

Extra vigil is being maintained in Naxal-affected Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur districts, he said.

State Assembly Speaker Gaurishankar Agrawal has been retained from the Kasdol seat, which he had won against Congress's Rajkamal Singhaniya in the 2013 elections.

The Congress has this time fielded a fresh face, Shankutala Sahu, from the seat.

The BJP has this time fielded nine ministers Brijmohan Agrawal (Raipur City South), Rajesh Munat (Raipur City West), Amar Agrawal (Bilaspur), Bhaiyyalal Rajwade (Baikunthpur), Ramsevak Paikra (Pratappur), Punnulal Mohile (Mungeli), Prem Prakash Pandey (Bhilai Nagar), Dayaldas Baghel (Nawagarh) and Ajay Chandrakar (Kurud), and also state chief Dharamlal Kaushik (Bilha).

Congress state chief Bhupesh Baghel (Patan), Leader of Opposition T S Singhdeo (Ambikapur), Congress MP from Durg Lok Sabha seat Tamradhwaj Sahu (Durg rural), and former Union minister Charandas Mahant (Shakti) are among the key opposition party candidates in the fray.

A three-way fight is expected in several seats of Bilaspur division where Ajit Jogi's party and the BSP have a considerable presence.

Jogi is contesting from the Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively.

The Kota seat is also likely to witness a three-cornered contest among incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh (Congress) and Kashi Sahu (BJP).

In the Akaltara seat, Ajit Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress).

Of the 72 seats, 46 are for the general category, while nine are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 17 for Scheduled Tribes candidates.

Of these seats, the BJP had won 43 seats in the 2013 polls while the Congress had bagged 27. One seat each was won by the BSP and an independent candidate.

During the poll campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah and other senior saffron party leaders targeted Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his family and accused the opposition party of misleading people during its 50-year rule in the country.

The BJP also recalled the development works and achievements of its 15-year rule in the state.

The Congress, however, raised farmers' issues during the poll campaign and promised them loan waiver, bonus on paddy procurement and setting up food processing unit if it wins the election.

It accused the prime minister of remaining "silent" on the "corruption charges" against Chief Minister Raman Singh in the alleged Rs 36,000-crore civil supply scam and not acting against the chief minister's son Abhishek Singh in the Panama Papers case.

The chief minister and his son had earlier denied the allegations against them.

The first phase of polls in 18 seats of eight Naxal-hit districts had recorded over 76 per cent voter turnout.

The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

All arrangements have been made for the second and final phase of the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections to be held in 72 seats of 19 districts on Tuesday amid tight security, with the deployment of over one lakh police personnel.

All arrangements have been made for the second and final phase of the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections to be held in 72 seats of 19 districts on Tuesday amid tight security, with the deployment of over one lakh police personnel. The fate of nine ministers, assembly speaker and some other prominent leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as well as of the Congress will be decide in the polls. In the first phase, polling was held in 18 seats of eight Naxal-affected districts on November 12. Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the BJP has set a target of winning 65 plus seats in the 90-member Assembly, while the Congress is seeking to end its 15-year exile from power in the tribal-dominated state. The coalition between the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) has added a twist to the poll battle. Polling will be held from 8 am to 5 pm in these seats of central and north Chhattisgarh where as many as 1,079 candidates, including 72 each from the BJP and the Congress, are in fray, an election official said. For the second phase of polls, there are 1,53,85,983 voters, including 77,46,628 men, 76,38,415 women and 940 of the third gender. As many as 19,296 polling booths have been set up for the second phase, the official said. The highest number of 46 contestants are in the Raipur City South constituency, while the lowest number of six contestants are in the Bindranavagarh seat. Over one lakh security personnel have been deployed to ensure peaceful polling, a police official said. Extra vigil is being maintained in Naxal-affected Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur districts, he said. State Assembly Speaker Gaurishankar Agrawal has been retained from the Kasdol seat, which he had won against Congress's Rajkamal Singhaniya in the 2013 elections. The Congress has this time fielded a fresh face, Shankutala Sahu, from the seat. The BJP has this time fielded nine ministers Brijmohan Agrawal (Raipur City South), Rajesh Munat (Raipur City West), Amar Agrawal (Bilaspur), Bhaiyyalal Rajwade (Baikunthpur), Ramsevak Paikra (Pratappur), Punnulal Mohile (Mungeli), Prem Prakash Pandey (Bhilai Nagar), Dayaldas Baghel (Nawagarh) and Ajay Chandrakar (Kurud), and also state chief Dharamlal Kaushik (Bilha). Congress state chief Bhupesh Baghel (Patan), Leader of Opposition T S Singhdeo (Ambikapur), Congress MP from Durg Lok Sabha seat Tamradhwaj Sahu (Durg rural), and former Union minister Charandas Mahant (Shakti) are among the key opposition party candidates in the fray. A three-way fight is expected in several seats of Bilaspur division where Ajit Jogi's party and the BSP have a considerable presence. Jogi is contesting from the Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively. The Kota seat is also likely to witness a three-cornered contest among incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh (Congress) and Kashi Sahu (BJP). In the Akaltara seat, Ajit Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress). Of the 72 seats, 46 are for the general category, while nine are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 17 for Scheduled Tribes candidates. Of these seats, the BJP had won 43 seats in the 2013 polls while the Congress had bagged 27. One seat each was won by the BSP and an independent candidate. During the poll campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah and other senior saffron party leaders targeted Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his family and accused the opposition party of misleading people during its 50-year rule in the country. The BJP also recalled the development works and achievements of its 15-year rule in the state. The Congress, however, raised farmers' issues during the poll campaign and promised them loan waiver, bonus on paddy procurement and setting up food processing unit if it wins the election. It accused the prime minister of remaining "silent" on the "corruption charges" against Chief Minister Raman Singh in the alleged Rs 36,000-crore civil supply scam and not acting against the chief minister's son Abhishek Singh in the Panama Papers case. The chief minister and his son had earlier denied the allegations against them. The first phase of polls in 18 seats of eight Naxal-hit districts had recorded over 76 per cent voter turnout. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday; 1 lakh cops deployed

Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said on Monday that the Assembly election in the state is a fight between the ideologies of his party and the BJP.

After filing his nomination from the Tonk assembly seat, Pilot said the Congress would not only win the election in Tonk, but also the entire state with a sizeable margin.

"The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has deceived the people and its report card is in front of the people. There is resentment among the people and they are waiting to vote for the Congress," Pilot said.

It is an important election and there is a wave for the Congress across the state, said Pilot, chief of the party's Rajasthan unit.

Pilot's rival candidate, Yoonus Khan, who is the only Muslim candidate pitted in the election by the saffron party, also filed his nomination on Monday.

"I would not like to comment on caste and religion. I have seen tension on Sachin Pilot's face. We both have come to Tonk for the first time as election nominees," Khan said, adding that he had always accepted his party's decision and was ready to work for the party anywhere in the country.

Khan said he had done various developmental works in Tonk district as a public works department minister in the last five years and the development would remain the issue for him and his party in the upcoming election.

Earlier in the day, the BJP released its fifth list of six candidates, fielding Khan against Pilot in the Muslim-dominated Tonk Assembly constituency by replacing sitting MLA Ajit Singh Mehta.

After the Congress fielded Pilot in Tonk, the BJP did brainstorming and replaced Mehta, who figured in the first list issued last week.

Khan is a sitting MLA from Deedwana constituency of Nagaur district and his name was kept reserved by the party till the last moment.

The state will go to polls on December 7.

Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said on Monday that the Assembly election in the state is a fight between the ideologies of his party and the BJP. After filing his nomination from the Tonk assembly seat, Pilot said the Congress would not only win the election in Tonk, but also the entire state with a sizeable margin.

Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot said on Monday that the Assembly election in the state is a fight between the ideologies of his party and the BJP. After filing his nomination from the Tonk assembly seat, Pilot said the Congress would not only win the election in Tonk, but also the entire state with a sizeable margin. "The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has deceived the people and its report card is in front of the people. There is resentment among the people and they are waiting to vote for the Congress," Pilot said. It is an important election and there is a wave for the Congress across the state, said Pilot, chief of the party's Rajasthan unit. Pilot's rival candidate, Yoonus Khan, who is the only Muslim candidate pitted in the election by the saffron party, also filed his nomination on Monday. "I would not like to comment on caste and religion. I have seen tension on Sachin Pilot's face. We both have come to Tonk for the first time as election nominees," Khan said, adding that he had always accepted his party's decision and was ready to work for the party anywhere in the country. Khan said he had done various developmental works in Tonk district as a public works department minister in the last five years and the development would remain the issue for him and his party in the upcoming election. Earlier in the day, the BJP released its fifth list of six candidates, fielding Khan against Pilot in the Muslim-dominated Tonk Assembly constituency by replacing sitting MLA Ajit Singh Mehta. After the Congress fielded Pilot in Tonk, the BJP did brainstorming and replaced Mehta, who figured in the first list issued last week. Khan is a sitting MLA from Deedwana constituency of Nagaur district and his name was kept reserved by the party till the last moment. The state will go to polls on December 7.

Sachin Pilot files nomination, says Rajasthan election fight between two ideologies

Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 Assembly elections in Telangana, on Monday expressed confidence and said the confusion over seat adjustments among the allies will be resolved soon.

The "grand alliance" comprises the Congress, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Communist Party of India (CPI) and TJS.

The confusion arose after parties gave tickets to candidates in constituencies allotted to their alliance partners.

"About seats, it will happen. If not today, it will happen tomorrow. I don't think it is a major problem. I am confident that we will be able to resolve that by tomorrow," TJS president M Kodandaram said in a 'Meet the Press' organised by Telangana State Union of Working Journalists (TUWJ).

Monday being the last day for filing nomination, he was asked about the confusion with regard to seat adjustment among the alliance partners. There is also lack of clarity about the proposed common agenda.

Observing that firming up the alliance and reaching out to people with a common agenda has been delayed, which has hurt the coalition, he said the remaining 15 days leading up to the polling date (December seven) should be used for the purpose.

The common agenda has been prepared, he said.

When it was pointed out that any "friendly contests" among the alliance partners might hurt winning chances of their candidates, he said efforts to avoid such contests would continue.

"We have to avoid them (friendly contests). One or two may be unavoidable but they should go. Those efforts will continue," he said.

Replying to a query, Kodandaram said he is not working for becoming deputy chief minister (in the event of the alliance coming to power) or any other post.

Hitting out at the "autocratic" rule of TRS, he said the TJS and its alliance parties are seeking a "democratic rule" in Telangana.

Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 Assembly elections in Telangana, on Monday expressed confidence and said the confusion over seat adjustments among the allies will be resolved soon.

Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 Assembly elections in Telangana, on Monday expressed confidence and said the confusion over seat adjustments among the allies will be resolved soon. The "grand alliance" comprises the Congress, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Communist Party of India (CPI) and TJS. The confusion arose after parties gave tickets to candidates in constituencies allotted to their alliance partners. "About seats, it will happen. If not today, it will happen tomorrow. I don't think it is a major problem. I am confident that we will be able to resolve that by tomorrow," TJS president M Kodandaram said in a 'Meet the Press' organised by Telangana State Union of Working Journalists (TUWJ). Monday being the last day for filing nomination, he was asked about the confusion with regard to seat adjustment among the alliance partners. There is also lack of clarity about the proposed common agenda. Observing that firming up the alliance and reaching out to people with a common agenda has been delayed, which has hurt the coalition, he said the remaining 15 days leading up to the polling date (December seven) should be used for the purpose. The common agenda has been prepared, he said. When it was pointed out that any "friendly contests" among the alliance partners might hurt winning chances of their candidates, he said efforts to avoid such contests would continue. "We have to avoid them (friendly contests). One or two may be unavoidable but they should go. Those efforts will continue," he said. Replying to a query, Kodandaram said he is not working for becoming deputy chief minister (in the event of the alliance coming to power) or any other post. Hitting out at the "autocratic" rule of TRS, he said the TJS and its alliance parties are seeking a "democratic rule" in Telangana.

Confusion over seat adjustment will be resolved soon: TJS chief

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin on Monday announced Rs 1 crore financial assistance for the relief and rehabilitation work in cyclone Gaja hit areas in eight districts of the state.

Stalin also declared that his party members of the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Assembly will also donate their one month's salary for the relief and rehabilitation works.

The disaster, which has brought the life in several districts of the state to a standstill, has so far claimed 11 lives, apart from causing huge damage to properties and live-stocks

On Friday, Kerala government also announced to provide Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to the people who have suffered minor injuries.

Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam last week and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin on Monday announced Rs 1 crore financial assistance for the relief and rehabilitation work in cyclone Gaja hit areas in eight districts of the state.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin on Monday announced Rs 1 crore financial assistance for the relief and rehabilitation work in cyclone Gaja hit areas in eight districts of the state. Stalin also declared that his party members of the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Assembly will also donate their one month's salary for the relief and rehabilitation works. The disaster, which has brought the life in several districts of the state to a standstill, has so far claimed 11 lives, apart from causing huge damage to properties and live-stocks On Friday, Kerala government also announced to provide Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to the people who have suffered minor injuries. Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam last week and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja: DMK donates Rs 1 crore for relief works

Condemning the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-youths-hand-suspected-in-amritsar-grenade-attack-178118">Amritsar grenade blast</a> in which three people were killed and 20 injured on Sunday, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday underscored the need to plug security loopholes.

“I condemn the blast in Amritsar. Also, I want to express my sympathy to those who have lost their loved ones. In last four-and-half years, an incident like this has not happened in any other city, leaving Pathankot and Uri. We will look forward to finding ways to stop such incidents in future,” Rijiju told media here.

“This is not the time to blame anybody, but we must find out the loopholes and we must try to correct them.

Everybody has to be vigilant in terms of security – central government, state governments and all agencies should work together,” he added.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh earlier today announced a reward of Rs 50 lakh for information leading to the arrest of suspects.

Information regarding the suspects can be provided at police helpline (181) and the identity of the informers will be kept secret, said media adviser to the Punjab Chief Minister.

Investigation in the case is underway.

Condemning the Amritsar grenade blast in which three people were killed and 20 injured on Sunday, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday underscored the need to plug security loopholes.

Condemning the Amritsar grenade blast in which three people were killed and 20 injured on Sunday, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday underscored the need to plug security loopholes. “I condemn the blast in Amritsar. Also, I want to express my sympathy to those who have lost their loved ones. In last four-and-half years, an incident like this has not happened in any other city, leaving Pathankot and Uri. We will look forward to finding ways to stop such incidents in future,” Rijiju told media here. “This is not the time to blame anybody, but we must find out the loopholes and we must try to correct them. Everybody has to be vigilant in terms of security – central government, state governments and all agencies should work together,” he added. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh earlier today announced a reward of Rs 50 lakh for information leading to the arrest of suspects. Information regarding the suspects can be provided at police helpline (181) and the identity of the informers will be kept secret, said media adviser to the Punjab Chief Minister. Investigation in the case is underway.

Security loopholes need to be plugged: Rijiju on Amritsar blast

The Supreme Court today deferred till November 26 hearing on the plea of Zakia Jafri challenging the clean chit given by the Special Investigating Team (SIT) to Narendra Modi, who was then Gujarat Chief Minister, in connection with the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

Zakia, the wife of&nbsp;Ehsan Jafri, an ex-Congress lawmker&nbsp;who was killed in one of the worst incidents during the riots, has challenged the Gujarat High Court's October 5, 2017 order rejecting her plea against the SIT's decision.

A bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar said, "The matter will take some time for hearing. The plea will be heard on November 26".

At the outset, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing for the SIT, said Zakia's plea was not maintainable and social activist Teesta Setalvad cannot be the second petitioner in the case.

The bench said it will look into the application before hearing the matter on making Setalvad as the second petitioner in Ms Jafri's plea.

During the previous hearing, Ms Jafri's counsel had said that notice needs to be issued in the plea as it pertains to the aspect of alleged "larger conspiracy" during the period from February 27, 2002 and May 2002 and had also maintained that after the SIT gave a clean chit in its closure report in the case before a trial judge, a protest was filed by the petitioner which was dismissed by the magistrate without considering "substantiated merits".

On February 8, 2012, the SIT filed a closure report, giving the clean chit to PM Modi and 63 others, including senior government officials, saying there was "no prosecutable evidence" against them.

"The present Special Leave Petition is filed before this Court against the final judgement and order dated October 5, 2017 passed by the High Court of Gujarat...which erroneously upheld the order of the magistrate accepting the closure report filed by the Special Investigative Agency appointed by this Court concerning the violence in Gujarat in 2002," Zakia, in her plea filed through advocate Aparna Bhat, submitted.

The plea had further said the high court "failed to appreciate" the petitioner's complaint which was independent of the Gulberg case registered at Meghaninagar Police Station.

Zakia had sought an interim order to the SIT to carry out further investigation and the evidence provided by her before the magistrate through the protest petition.

The Supreme Court today deferred till November 26 hearing on the plea of Zakia Jafri challenging the clean chit given by the Special Investigating Team (SIT) to Narendra Modi, who was then Gujarat Chief Minister, in connection with the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

The Supreme Court today deferred till November 26 hearing on the plea of Zakia Jafri challenging the clean chit given by the Special Investigating Team (SIT) to Narendra Modi, who was then Gujarat Chief Minister, in connection with the 2002 post-Godhra riots. Zakia, the wife of Ehsan Jafri, an ex-Congress lawmker who was killed in one of the worst incidents during the riots, has challenged the Gujarat High Court's October 5, 2017 order rejecting her plea against the SIT's decision. A bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar said, "The matter will take some time for hearing. The plea will be heard on November 26". At the outset, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing for the SIT, said Zakia's plea was not maintainable and social activist Teesta Setalvad cannot be the second petitioner in the case. The bench said it will look into the application before hearing the matter on making Setalvad as the second petitioner in Ms Jafri's plea. During the previous hearing, Ms Jafri's counsel had said that notice needs to be issued in the plea as it pertains to the aspect of alleged "larger conspiracy" during the period from February 27, 2002 and May 2002 and had also maintained that after the SIT gave a clean chit in its closure report in the case before a trial judge, a protest was filed by the petitioner which was dismissed by the magistrate without considering "substantiated merits". On February 8, 2012, the SIT filed a closure report, giving the clean chit to PM Modi and 63 others, including senior government officials, saying there was "no prosecutable evidence" against them. "The present Special Leave Petition is filed before this Court against the final judgement and order dated October 5, 2017 passed by the High Court of Gujarat...which erroneously upheld the order of the magistrate accepting the closure report filed by the Special Investigative Agency appointed by this Court concerning the violence in Gujarat in 2002," Zakia, in her plea filed through advocate Aparna Bhat, submitted. The plea had further said the high court "failed to appreciate" the petitioner's complaint which was independent of the Gulberg case registered at Meghaninagar Police Station. Zakia had sought an interim order to the SIT to carry out further investigation and the evidence provided by her before the magistrate through the protest petition.

Supreme Court defers Zakia Jafri’s plea hearing in Gujarat riots till Monday

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

"The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said.

The BJP chief&nbsp;said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said.

"In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm.

He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016.

"When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said.

Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position.

"By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country. "The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said. The BJP chief said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said. "In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm. He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016. "When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said. Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position. "By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

Rahul Gandhi has 'Modi-Phobia', named him 44 times in speech: Amit Shah

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