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BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav said on Thursday that not even a single citizen will be subjected to injustice in the matter of NRC in Assam and that the persons concerned have ample opportunities to prove their citizenship, news agency PTI reported.

"We are ready to take tough decisions for security of Assam and national security. But, not a single citizen will be subjected to any injustice," he said.

The aggrieved persons have the option of going to tribunal and high court, he said, delivering the Janamanchi Gourishankar Memorial Lecture on 'Divisive Politics or Decisive Politics: NRC in the context of National Security' organised by the ABVP here tonight.

This effort is not being done with any vindictiveness against anybody, to trouble any communal group, he reportedly claimed.

Madhav said that the government would decide that what steps would be taken on illegal migrants once the list is finalised, he said.

Bangladesh does not want infiltrators on its soil and it is in talks with Myanmar on taking back Rohingyas, he said.

"Owaisi is welcoming them here (Hyderabad)," he said.

He criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi for their stance on illegal migrants.

"Mamata Banerjee ji in Bengal, Owaisi ji in Hyderabad and in Delhi, there are some leaders, they are championing the cause of illegal infiltrators," he said.

Banerjee had alleged in Parliament in 2005 that Communists are doing wrong politics in Bengal by converting illegal migrants as vote bank, he claimed.

He criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi for their stance on illegal migrants.

BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav said on Thursday that not even a single citizen will be subjected to injustice in the matter of NRC in Assam and that the persons concerned have ample opportunities to prove their citizenship, news agency PTI reported. "We are ready to take tough decisions for security of Assam and national security. But, not a single citizen will be subjected to any injustice," he said. The aggrieved persons have the option of going to tribunal and high court, he said, delivering the Janamanchi Gourishankar Memorial Lecture on 'Divisive Politics or Decisive Politics: NRC in the context of National Security' organised by the ABVP here tonight. This effort is not being done with any vindictiveness against anybody, to trouble any communal group, he reportedly claimed. Madhav said that the government would decide that what steps would be taken on illegal migrants once the list is finalised, he said. Bangladesh does not want infiltrators on its soil and it is in talks with Myanmar on taking back Rohingyas, he said. "Owaisi is welcoming them here (Hyderabad)," he said. He criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi for their stance on illegal migrants. "Mamata Banerjee ji in Bengal, Owaisi ji in Hyderabad and in Delhi, there are some leaders, they are championing the cause of illegal infiltrators," he said. Banerjee had alleged in Parliament in 2005 that Communists are doing wrong politics in Bengal by converting illegal migrants as vote bank, he claimed.

No citizen to be subjected to injustice: Ram Madhav on NRC in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday had a series of bilateral meetings, including discussions with his Thai counterpart Prayut Chan-o-cha and Myanmar President Win Myint, on the sidelines of the 4th BIMSTEC Summit here.

"Mr Prayut Chan-o-cha and I had a great meeting. Our talks focussed on boosting cooperation between India and Thailand for the mutual benefit of our citizens," Modi tweeted.

The two leaders are here to attend the 4th BIMSTEC summit.

"The Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Prayut Chan-o-cha and PM @narendramodi held productive talks in Kathmandu. Their discussions focussed on strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Thailand," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted.

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The Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Prayuth Chan-ocha and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> held productive talks in Kathmandu. Their discussions focussed on strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Thailand. <a href="https://t.co/WhbvO6cOaj">pic.twitter.com/WhbvO6cOaj</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1035390192226578433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that the two leaders exchanged views on further cementing the bilateral relationship.

Prime Minister Modi also met Myanmar President Win Myint and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

"Our discussions were centred around enhancing cooperation in trade, energy and several other sectors," Prime Minister Modi said.

The two leaders had productive discussions on accelerating cooperation between India and Myanmar, the Prime Minister's Office said.

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President Win Myint of Myanmar and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met on the sidelines on the BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu. They had productive discussions on accelerating cooperation between India and Myanmar. <a href="https://t.co/Ge49NNP9dz">pic.twitter.com/Ge49NNP9dz</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1035437214472302592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kumar said the discussion between the two leaders focused on development cooperation, energy and other areas of bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi also met Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the interim government of Bhutan.

"India cherishes the longstanding and robust friendship with Bhutan. In Kathmandu today, held extensive talks with Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bhutan," Modi tweeted.

"Their discussions will add great vigour to India-Bhutan relations," the Prime Minister's Office said.

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Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bhutan and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a wonderful meeting. Their discussions will add great vigour to India-Bhutan relations. <a href="https://t.co/LDzOiKVsao">pic.twitter.com/LDzOiKVsao</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1035437597949157376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Prime Minister Modi and other leaders from BIMSTEC met informally at the Leaders' Retreat here.

"Wonderful discussions and exchange of ideas on strengthening BIMSTEC during the retreat of leaders in Kathmandu this morning," Modi tweeted.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional grouping comprising India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. The grouping accounts for 22 per cent of the global population, and has a combined gross domestic product of USD 2.8 trillion.

Prime Minister Modi yesterday held talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

Prime Minister Modi also met Myanmar President Win Myint and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday had a series of bilateral meetings, including discussions with his Thai counterpart Prayut Chan-o-cha and Myanmar President Win Myint, on the sidelines of the 4th BIMSTEC Summit here. "Mr Prayut Chan-o-cha and I had a great meeting. Our talks focussed on boosting cooperation between India and Thailand for the mutual benefit of our citizens," Modi tweeted. The two leaders are here to attend the 4th BIMSTEC summit. "The Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Prayut Chan-o-cha and PM @narendramodi held productive talks in Kathmandu. Their discussions focussed on strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Thailand," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. The Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Prayuth Chan-ocha and PM @narendramodi held productive talks in Kathmandu. Their discussions focussed on strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Thailand. pic.twitter.com/WhbvO6cOaj — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 31, 2018 × Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that the two leaders exchanged views on further cementing the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi also met Myanmar President Win Myint and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation. "Our discussions were centred around enhancing cooperation in trade, energy and several other sectors," Prime Minister Modi said. The two leaders had productive discussions on accelerating cooperation between India and Myanmar, the Prime Minister's Office said. President Win Myint of Myanmar and PM @narendramodi met on the sidelines on the BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu. They had productive discussions on accelerating cooperation between India and Myanmar. pic.twitter.com/Ge49NNP9dz — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 31, 2018 × Kumar said the discussion between the two leaders focused on development cooperation, energy and other areas of bilateral cooperation. Prime Minister Modi also met Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the interim government of Bhutan. "India cherishes the longstanding and robust friendship with Bhutan. In Kathmandu today, held extensive talks with Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bhutan," Modi tweeted. "Their discussions will add great vigour to India-Bhutan relations," the Prime Minister's Office said. Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bhutan and PM @narendramodi had a wonderful meeting. Their discussions will add great vigour to India-Bhutan relations. pic.twitter.com/LDzOiKVsao — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 31, 2018 × Earlier, Prime Minister Modi and other leaders from BIMSTEC met informally at the Leaders' Retreat here. "Wonderful discussions and exchange of ideas on strengthening BIMSTEC during the retreat of leaders in Kathmandu this morning," Modi tweeted. The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional grouping comprising India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. The grouping accounts for 22 per cent of the global population, and has a combined gross domestic product of USD 2.8 trillion. Prime Minister Modi yesterday held talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Myanmar, Bhutan leaders

Militants on Thursday night struck at various places in south Kashmir and abducted relatives of policemen, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

The militants' action came on a day when the NIA arrested the second son of globally wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin.&nbsp;

Police did not issue any statements but said they were trying to ascertain reports of abductions, the report added.&nbsp;

However, officials privy to the development, said that at least five people, whose family members were working in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, have been picked up by militants from Shopian, Kulgam, Anantnag and Awantipora.&nbsp;

Among those abducted included brother of a deputy superintendent of police, the report added.

Security forces' crackdown on militants&nbsp;began after four policemen were killed in Shopian in south Kashmir and damaged some houses belonging to militants.&nbsp;

In a related development, kin of a policeman, who was abducted from Ganderbal district in central Kashmir, was released after being mercilessly beaten up by militants.&nbsp;

The militants' action came on a day when the NIA arrested the second son of globally wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin.

Militants on Thursday night struck at various places in south Kashmir and abducted relatives of policemen, reported news agency PTI. The militants' action came on a day when the NIA arrested the second son of globally wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin. Police did not issue any statements but said they were trying to ascertain reports of abductions, the report added. However, officials privy to the development, said that at least five people, whose family members were working in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, have been picked up by militants from Shopian, Kulgam, Anantnag and Awantipora. Among those abducted included brother of a deputy superintendent of police, the report added. Security forces' crackdown on militants began after four policemen were killed in Shopian in south Kashmir and damaged some houses belonging to militants. In a related development, kin of a policeman, who was abducted from Ganderbal district in central Kashmir, was released after being mercilessly beaten up by militants.

Militants abduct relatives of 5 policemen in south Kashmir

Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram was questioned by the&nbspEnforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday in the Aircel-Maxis money laundering case for the fourth time, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.&nbsp

The senior Congress leader arrived at the agency's office here early in the day, they said, adding that his statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the report added.&nbsp

According to reports, some specific queries on the circumstances and procedures adopted by the now-defunct Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) are being put to the former Union minister during these sessions.

This is the fourth time the Chidambaram is being questioned in the probe. He was last grilled for about six hours on August 24.

Chidambaram's son Karti has been questioned twice by the ED in connection with the same case.&nbsp

While the CBI has filed a charge sheet in this case involving the politician in July, the ED is expected to file its own prosecution complaint within the next fortnight. &nbsp &nbsp&nbsp

After similar questioning by the ED in this case in June, Chidambaram had said what he told the agency was already recorded in government documents. He also said a probe was initiated even though there is no FIR.

"More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it!," he had said in his tweet.

The Aircel-Maxis cases pertains to grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance to the firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd in 2006 for investment in Aircel.&nbsp

Chidambaram arrived at the agency's office here early in the day, they said, adding that his statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram was questioned by the&nbspEnforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday in the Aircel-Maxis money laundering case for the fourth time, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. The senior Congress leader arrived at the agency's office here early in the day, they said, adding that his statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the report added. According to reports, some specific queries on the circumstances and procedures adopted by the now-defunct Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) are being put to the former Union minister during these sessions. This is the fourth time the Chidambaram is being questioned in the probe. He was last grilled for about six hours on August 24. Chidambaram's son Karti has been questioned twice by the ED in connection with the same case. While the CBI has filed a charge sheet in this case involving the politician in July, the ED is expected to file its own prosecution complaint within the next fortnight. After similar questioning by the ED in this case in June, Chidambaram had said what he told the agency was already recorded in government documents. He also said a probe was initiated even though there is no FIR. "More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it!," he had said in his tweet. The Aircel-Maxis cases pertains to grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance to the firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd in 2006 for investment in Aircel.

ED questions Chidambaram again in Aircel-Maxis money laundering case

The Allahabad high court on Thursday rebuked a principal secretary of the Uttar Pradesh government and its counsel for their failure to explain the reason behind lowering the minimum qualifying marks in the ongoing recruitment of assistant teachers in the state.

Exasperated with the officials' failure in satisfying its queries, a Lucknow bench of the high court ordered that the ongoing recruitment of 68,500 assistant teachers as per the original, higher qualifying marks set for the selection would be subject to the outcome of the appeals before it.

The bench of justices Shabihul Hasnain and Rajan Roy was hearing a bunch of appeals against a single-judge bench order which had on July 24 this year quashed the government's decision to lower the minimum qualifying marks for the appointment of teachers.

After originally fixing higher qualifying marks for the recruitment, the state government had lowered them on May 21, while the single-judge bench had stayed this decision.

It was during the hearing of appeals against this order by another group of petitioners, including one Avinash Kumar that the division bench gave vent to its ire for the official's failure to explain the reasons behind lowering the qualifying marks.

The bench expressed surprise that both the officer and the counsel were unable to explain the state's action.

While hearing the appeals, the bench had demanded the explanation from the state counsel, but on his failure to do so, it had summoned Principal Secretary (Basic Education) Prabhat Kumar on Tuesday to satisfy the court's query.

But Kumar replied that he did not know why the marks were lowered.

"It is a strange answer from a principal secretary of the department," said an exasperated bench.

On being asked further if he had brought the records or seen them, the officer again replied in negative, saying the counsel never told him to do so.

Apparently at its wits' end, the bench observed, "It was clearly mentioned in the August 27 order that the principal secretary was being summoned because the state counsel had no clear instructions.

"It was also clearly mentioned that the principal secretary would bring the records too so that the court could see the reason for lowering the minimum qualifying marks," the judge pointed out.&nbsp;

"However, it is very strange that neither the state counsel has seen the record nor the principal secretary is aware about the same," the bench noted in its order.&nbsp;

The bench expressed surprise that both the officer and the counsel were unable to explain the state's action

The Allahabad high court on Thursday rebuked a principal secretary of the Uttar Pradesh government and its counsel for their failure to explain the reason behind lowering the minimum qualifying marks in the ongoing recruitment of assistant teachers in the state. Exasperated with the officials' failure in satisfying its queries, a Lucknow bench of the high court ordered that the ongoing recruitment of 68,500 assistant teachers as per the original, higher qualifying marks set for the selection would be subject to the outcome of the appeals before it. The bench of justices Shabihul Hasnain and Rajan Roy was hearing a bunch of appeals against a single-judge bench order which had on July 24 this year quashed the government's decision to lower the minimum qualifying marks for the appointment of teachers. After originally fixing higher qualifying marks for the recruitment, the state government had lowered them on May 21, while the single-judge bench had stayed this decision. It was during the hearing of appeals against this order by another group of petitioners, including one Avinash Kumar that the division bench gave vent to its ire for the official's failure to explain the reasons behind lowering the qualifying marks. The bench expressed surprise that both the officer and the counsel were unable to explain the state's action. While hearing the appeals, the bench had demanded the explanation from the state counsel, but on his failure to do so, it had summoned Principal Secretary (Basic Education) Prabhat Kumar on Tuesday to satisfy the court's query. But Kumar replied that he did not know why the marks were lowered. "It is a strange answer from a principal secretary of the department," said an exasperated bench. On being asked further if he had brought the records or seen them, the officer again replied in negative, saying the counsel never told him to do so. Apparently at its wits' end, the bench observed, "It was clearly mentioned in the August 27 order that the principal secretary was being summoned because the state counsel had no clear instructions. "It was also clearly mentioned that the principal secretary would bring the records too so that the court could see the reason for lowering the minimum qualifying marks," the judge pointed out. "However, it is very strange that neither the state counsel has seen the record nor the principal secretary is aware about the same," the bench noted in its order.

Top official's ignorance of his department's affairs upsets Allahabad high court

The Supreme Court on Friday adjourned to January next year the hearing on a batch of petitions challenging the Constitutional validity of Article 35 (A), which provides special rights and privileges to natives of Jammu and Kashmir, after taking note of submissions of the Centre and the state government that there was a law and order problem in the state.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra was informed by Attorney General K K Venugopal and Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government respectively that in view of the impending eight-phased local body elections and law and order situation in the state, the hearing be deferred.

"Let the elections take place. We are told that there is a law and order problem," the bench which also comprised Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said while adjourning the hearing to the second week of January on petitions challenging Article 35 (A).

Article 35 (A), which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state.

It also denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs.

At the outset, ASG Mehta said local body elections for the post of 4,500 sarpanch seats and other local body posts would be held in eight phases and begin in September and continue till December.

"If the local body elections are not held then a fund of Rs 4,335 crores meant for local bodies will lapse," he said while seeking an adjournment of the hearing and referred to the prevailing law and order situation in the state.

The argument seeking adjournment was advanced after the bench indicated that it would hear the petitions in September itself to decide as too whether the petitions challenging the validity of Article 35 (A) can be referred to a five-judge Constitution bench.

"A large number of paramilitary forces are there. Let the elections go on calmly and thereafter hear these petitions in January or March. This issue has been very sensitive," Venugopal said.

The ASG said that though this Article relates to "gender discrimination" it is not the right time to hear the petitions.

Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for a group opposed to the Constitutional scheme, raised the issue and said persons who migrated to Jammu and Kashmir and are living there for last 60 years, do not get benefit of employment or admissions in medical and engineering colleges despite living there for so long.

Political parties, including the National Conference and the CPI(M), have moved the Supreme Court in support of Article 35-A that empowers the state assembly to define "permanent residents" for bestowing special rights and privileges to them.

An NGO, 'Ikkjut Jammu', has also filed a plea seeking quashing of the provision. It has said that Article 35 (A) furthers the "two-nation theory which is against the theory of secularism".

The state government, while defending the Article, had cited two verdicts of the constitution benches of the Supreme Court in 1961 and 1969, which had upheld the powers of the President under Article 370(1)(d) of the Constitution to pass constitutional orders.

The Article was incorporated in the Constitution in 1954 by an order of President Rajendra Prasad on the advice of the then Cabinet headed by Jawaharlal Nehru.&nbsp;

Article 35-A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state.

The Supreme Court on Friday adjourned to January next year the hearing on a batch of petitions challenging the Constitutional validity of Article 35 (A), which provides special rights and privileges to natives of Jammu and Kashmir, after taking note of submissions of the Centre and the state government that there was a law and order problem in the state. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra was informed by Attorney General K K Venugopal and Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government respectively that in view of the impending eight-phased local body elections and law and order situation in the state, the hearing be deferred. "Let the elections take place. We are told that there is a law and order problem," the bench which also comprised Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said while adjourning the hearing to the second week of January on petitions challenging Article 35 (A). Article 35 (A), which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state. It also denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs. At the outset, ASG Mehta said local body elections for the post of 4,500 sarpanch seats and other local body posts would be held in eight phases and begin in September and continue till December. "If the local body elections are not held then a fund of Rs 4,335 crores meant for local bodies will lapse," he said while seeking an adjournment of the hearing and referred to the prevailing law and order situation in the state. The argument seeking adjournment was advanced after the bench indicated that it would hear the petitions in September itself to decide as too whether the petitions challenging the validity of Article 35 (A) can be referred to a five-judge Constitution bench. "A large number of paramilitary forces are there. Let the elections go on calmly and thereafter hear these petitions in January or March. This issue has been very sensitive," Venugopal said. The ASG said that though this Article relates to "gender discrimination" it is not the right time to hear the petitions. Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for a group opposed to the Constitutional scheme, raised the issue and said persons who migrated to Jammu and Kashmir and are living there for last 60 years, do not get benefit of employment or admissions in medical and engineering colleges despite living there for so long. Political parties, including the National Conference and the CPI(M), have moved the Supreme Court in support of Article 35-A that empowers the state assembly to define "permanent residents" for bestowing special rights and privileges to them. An NGO, 'Ikkjut Jammu', has also filed a plea seeking quashing of the provision. It has said that Article 35 (A) furthers the "two-nation theory which is against the theory of secularism". The state government, while defending the Article, had cited two verdicts of the constitution benches of the Supreme Court in 1961 and 1969, which had upheld the powers of the President under Article 370(1)(d) of the Constitution to pass constitutional orders. The Article was incorporated in the Constitution in 1954 by an order of President Rajendra Prasad on the advice of the then Cabinet headed by Jawaharlal Nehru.

SC adjourns Article 35 (A) case till next year

Within a week, two prominent Aam Aadmi Party leaders ended their association with the party. Ashutosh on August 14 took to Twitter to announce his resignation.

A week later, another prominent party figure Ashish Khetan shared on social media that he is taking up the legal profession, and hence will not get be involved in &nbsp;active politics for now.

However, AAP chief and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tried to downplay both the resignations.

According to party sources, Khetan, Ashutosh and Kumar Vishwas were upset with the AAP leadership for nominating businessman Sushil Gupta and chartered accountant ND Gupta for the vacant Rajya Sabha seats from Delhi in April, 2018.&nbsp;

Vishwas has got an additional reason to be upset about, and that is, his removal as Rajasthan incharge.

Several founding members have either quit the party or were expelled. Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav were expelled from the party in 2015 after they claimed lack of transparency in the party.

Shazia Illmi, Captain G R Gopinath, Anjali Damania and Mayank Gandhi had quit hitting out at Kejriwal's style of working and lack of inner democracy in the party.

The departure of founding members who played a significant role in the 2011 anti-corruption movement under the leadership of Anna Hazare and also during AAP's inception, has raised doubts about Kejriwal's leadership skills.

Anna Hazare-Arvind Kejriwal split came wide open in 2012 when Kejriwal decided to take up the political path. Anna Hazare then claimed that Kejriwal had promised to remain dedicated to the social cause, but he went ahead to join politics. "Kejriwal has forgotten all principles in the pursuit of power," Hazare alleged.

Many have openly accused Kejriwal of destroying the social movement because of his political ambitions. They claimed that AAP was going against the principles on which the party was founded.&nbsp;

Instead of criticising the central government and prime minister Narendra Modi for everything that goes wrong, Kejriwal should focus on strengthening organisational structure of his own party. Lest we forget, because of his careless utterances, Kejriwal had to tender apology to Kapil Sibal, Nitin Gadkari and Punjab minister Biram Singh Majithia to settle the defamation cases filed by these individuals.

The tussle between the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal, and Arvind Kejriwal is another factor which has caused discomfort among many party leaders. Finally, country's top court had to intervene to provide some closure to long-running political power tussle.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the Punjab Unit of the party has been divided into two factions. The crisis erupted after Bholath MLA Sukhbir Khaira was replaced as Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, with Harpal Singh Cheema.

Khaira's removal was announced by a Manish Sisodia through Twitter. This attitude, wherein the national leadership interferes in state activities in an 'autocratic' manner, instead of helping them iron out their&nbsp;differences, should immediately be done away with.

Also, such important decision shouldn't be announced via social networking sites. The central leadership should be responsible and regardful while dealing with senior party leaders.&nbsp;

The exit of senior party leaders and rebellion by a group in its Punjab unit are not the only challenges that AAP central leadership faces ahead of 2019 election.&nbsp;

Another controversy erupted on Tuesday after AAP allegedly asked Atishi Marlena, who has been named candidate for 2019 election from East Delhi, to drop her 'Christian-sounding' surname. On Wednesday, Ashutosh too hinted at AAP resorting to caste politics to draw more votes.

The party, which has been critical of other political groups over caste-based politics, is itself doing something which is quite disappointing. Political parties should't be encouraging politics based on caste and religion and voters should be encouraged by the Election Commission to cast their vote based on candidate's views on positions on various issues.

It was nothing less than a miracle when a party, founded by social activists, gained momentum as a political entity. It was not a lone effort of Kejriwal but several others had put their sweat and time, left stable careers to be part of this revolution.&nbsp;

Kejriwal owes them. He should not delay, any further, introspecting his leadership skills. It's still not too late to try and win back Ashutosh, Khetan and Vishwas, before they, like other estranged party members, join other parties or movements.

He still has time to rebuild the party's crumbling structure. As AAP chief, Kejriwal should learn to respect views and opinions of party members. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Arvind Kejriwal still has time to rebuild the party's crumbling structure. As the AAP chief, Kejriwal should learn to respect views and opinions of party members.

Within a week, two prominent Aam Aadmi Party leaders ended their association with the party. Ashutosh on August 14 took to Twitter to announce his resignation. A week later, another prominent party figure Ashish Khetan shared on social media that he is taking up the legal profession, and hence will not get be involved in active politics for now. However, AAP chief and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tried to downplay both the resignations. According to party sources, Khetan, Ashutosh and Kumar Vishwas were upset with the AAP leadership for nominating businessman Sushil Gupta and chartered accountant ND Gupta for the vacant Rajya Sabha seats from Delhi in April, 2018. Vishwas has got an additional reason to be upset about, and that is, his removal as Rajasthan incharge. Several founding members have either quit the party or were expelled. Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav were expelled from the party in 2015 after they claimed lack of transparency in the party. Shazia Illmi, Captain G R Gopinath, Anjali Damania and Mayank Gandhi had quit hitting out at Kejriwal's style of working and lack of inner democracy in the party. The departure of founding members who played a significant role in the 2011 anti-corruption movement under the leadership of Anna Hazare and also during AAP's inception, has raised doubts about Kejriwal's leadership skills. Anna Hazare-Arvind Kejriwal split came wide open in 2012 when Kejriwal decided to take up the political path. Anna Hazare then claimed that Kejriwal had promised to remain dedicated to the social cause, but he went ahead to join politics. "Kejriwal has forgotten all principles in the pursuit of power," Hazare alleged. Many have openly accused Kejriwal of destroying the social movement because of his political ambitions. They claimed that AAP was going against the principles on which the party was founded. Instead of criticising the central government and prime minister Narendra Modi for everything that goes wrong, Kejriwal should focus on strengthening organisational structure of his own party. Lest we forget, because of his careless utterances, Kejriwal had to tender apology to Kapil Sibal, Nitin Gadkari and Punjab minister Biram Singh Majithia to settle the defamation cases filed by these individuals. The tussle between the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal, and Arvind Kejriwal is another factor which has caused discomfort among many party leaders. Finally, country's top court had to intervene to provide some closure to long-running political power tussle. Furthermore, the Punjab Unit of the party has been divided into two factions. The crisis erupted after Bholath MLA Sukhbir Khaira was replaced as Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, with Harpal Singh Cheema. Khaira's removal was announced by a Manish Sisodia through Twitter. This attitude, wherein the national leadership interferes in state activities in an 'autocratic' manner, instead of helping them iron out their differences, should immediately be done away with. Also, such important decision shouldn't be announced via social networking sites. The central leadership should be responsible and regardful while dealing with senior party leaders. The exit of senior party leaders and rebellion by a group in its Punjab unit are not the only challenges that AAP central leadership faces ahead of 2019 election. Another controversy erupted on Tuesday after AAP allegedly asked Atishi Marlena, who has been named candidate for 2019 election from East Delhi, to drop her 'Christian-sounding' surname. On Wednesday, Ashutosh too hinted at AAP resorting to caste politics to draw more votes. The party, which has been critical of other political groups over caste-based politics, is itself doing something which is quite disappointing. Political parties should't be encouraging politics based on caste and religion and voters should be encouraged by the Election Commission to cast their vote based on candidate's views on positions on various issues. It was nothing less than a miracle when a party, founded by social activists, gained momentum as a political entity. It was not a lone effort of Kejriwal but several others had put their sweat and time, left stable careers to be part of this revolution. Kejriwal owes them. He should not delay, any further, introspecting his leadership skills. It's still not too late to try and win back Ashutosh, Khetan and Vishwas, before they, like other estranged party members, join other parties or movements. He still has time to rebuild the party's crumbling structure. As AAP chief, Kejriwal should learn to respect views and opinions of party members. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The curious case of prominent AAP members quitting the party

A court here on Thursday directed the Pune Police to send three activists, arrested for suspected links to Maoists, back to their homes, after the Supreme Court ordered that they be kept under house arrest till September 6.

The Supreme Court has ordered that the five activists, arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence case, be kept under house arrest, observing that dissent was the "safety valve" of democracy.

District and sessions judge K D Vadhane here ordered police to send Varavara Rao, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira back to their residences, where they will be kept under 'house arrest'.

The three activists, along with Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha, were arrested yesterday.

While trade unionist and lawyer Bharadwaj is confined to her home in Faridabad and civil liberties activist Navlakha to his Delhi residence, Telugu poet Rao and activists Gonsalves and Ferreira were brought to Pune late last night.

As the apex court stayed the transit remand of Navlakha and Bharadwaj, the Police could produce only Rao, Gonsalves and Ferreira in Pune court today.

Public prosecutor Ujjwala Pawar sought 14 days' custody for the trio.

Judge Vadhane, after receiving the apex court's directions, ordered the Pune police to send all three to their respective cities and put them under "house arrest" till further directions.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Shivaji Pawar said arrangements will be made to send the three back to their respective cities. They may be sent back by tomorrow, another official said.

The Pune police had arrested the five activists in connection with an FIR lodged after the 'Elgar Parishad' conclave held in Pune on December 31 last year that had triggered violence at Bhima-Koregaon village.

Earlier, during the arguments in the court, the prosecution claimed that the accused were planning to "wage a war" against the country and were involved in procuring arms, funding Naxal activities and recruiting students from reputed educational institutes.

Prosecutor Pawar said that Rao, Gonsalves and Ferreira were active members of the banned CPI (Maoists), and submitted some letters, seized earlier, that mention the three men.

Citing one of the letters, Pawar said Rao raised funds for the Naxals and was also involved in procuring arms.

One of the seized letters showed that Rao was the only authorised person to speak to Maoist activists in Manipur and Nepal to facilitate import of weapons, she said.

Another letter said that Maoists were facing heavy casualties, and Rao and Surendra Gadling (arrested in June) pressed for inflicting heavy damage on the security forces as a revenge, she said.

"One of the letters which have a mention of Ferreira states the need of recruiting 'professional revolutionaries' and for that these accused were targeting reputed institutes like Tata Institute of Social Science and other," she said.

"The anti-fascist front floated by CPI (Maoists) is trying to spread its wings in different parts of the country to incite people to revolt against the present government.

"The Elgar Parishad held in Pune on December 31 was organised ...To mobilise the Dalit community against the government," Pawar contended.

The seized letters also showed connection of the Maoists with other banned organisations including some operating in Jammu and Kashmir, she said.

Defence Counsels Rohan Nahar and Shahid Akhtar argued that the sections evoked under the UAPA were not applicable as police had not proved the accused persons' link with the Koregaon Bhima violence.

District and sessions judge K D Vadhane here ordered police to send Varavara Rao, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira back to their residences, where they will be kept under 'house arrest'.

A court here on Thursday directed the Pune Police to send three activists, arrested for suspected links to Maoists, back to their homes, after the Supreme Court ordered that they be kept under house arrest till September 6. The Supreme Court has ordered that the five activists, arrested in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence case, be kept under house arrest, observing that dissent was the "safety valve" of democracy. District and sessions judge K D Vadhane here ordered police to send Varavara Rao, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira back to their residences, where they will be kept under 'house arrest'. The three activists, along with Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha, were arrested yesterday. While trade unionist and lawyer Bharadwaj is confined to her home in Faridabad and civil liberties activist Navlakha to his Delhi residence, Telugu poet Rao and activists Gonsalves and Ferreira were brought to Pune late last night. As the apex court stayed the transit remand of Navlakha and Bharadwaj, the Police could produce only Rao, Gonsalves and Ferreira in Pune court today. Public prosecutor Ujjwala Pawar sought 14 days' custody for the trio. Judge Vadhane, after receiving the apex court's directions, ordered the Pune police to send all three to their respective cities and put them under "house arrest" till further directions. Assistant Commissioner of Police Shivaji Pawar said arrangements will be made to send the three back to their respective cities. They may be sent back by tomorrow, another official said. The Pune police had arrested the five activists in connection with an FIR lodged after the 'Elgar Parishad' conclave held in Pune on December 31 last year that had triggered violence at Bhima-Koregaon village. Earlier, during the arguments in the court, the prosecution claimed that the accused were planning to "wage a war" against the country and were involved in procuring arms, funding Naxal activities and recruiting students from reputed educational institutes. Prosecutor Pawar said that Rao, Gonsalves and Ferreira were active members of the banned CPI (Maoists), and submitted some letters, seized earlier, that mention the three men. Citing one of the letters, Pawar said Rao raised funds for the Naxals and was also involved in procuring arms. One of the seized letters showed that Rao was the only authorised person to speak to Maoist activists in Manipur and Nepal to facilitate import of weapons, she said. Another letter said that Maoists were facing heavy casualties, and Rao and Surendra Gadling (arrested in June) pressed for inflicting heavy damage on the security forces as a revenge, she said. "One of the letters which have a mention of Ferreira states the need of recruiting 'professional revolutionaries' and for that these accused were targeting reputed institutes like Tata Institute of Social Science and other," she said. "The anti-fascist front floated by CPI (Maoists) is trying to spread its wings in different parts of the country to incite people to revolt against the present government. "The Elgar Parishad held in Pune on December 31 was organised ...To mobilise the Dalit community against the government," Pawar contended. The seized letters also showed connection of the Maoists with other banned organisations including some operating in Jammu and Kashmir, she said. Defence Counsels Rohan Nahar and Shahid Akhtar argued that the sections evoked under the UAPA were not applicable as police had not proved the accused persons' link with the Koregaon Bhima violence.

Pune court directs cops to release arrested activists; keep them in house arrest

The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought response of the Election Commission on a plea by the Aam Aadmi Party against the poll panel's decision to reject its objection against registration of the 'Aapki Apni Party (Peoples)' as a political party.

Justice Siddharth Mridul issued a notice to the EC and the Aapki Apni Party (Peoples) seeking their stand on the plea by AAP seeking de-registration of the newly formed party.

The Aam Aadmi Party has sought de-registration of the new party on the grounds that the abbreviation of both the parties would be the same -- AAP — which could confuse voters.

The petition, filed through advocate Anupam Srivastava, claimed that the new party's name was similar sounding and that could confuse voters.

The AAP has sought quashing of the EC's July 16 order rejecting its objection against registration of Aapki Apni Party (Peoples) as a political party under provisions of the Representation of People Act.

The petition, filed through advocate Anupam Srivastava, claimed that the new party's name was similar sounding and that could confuse voters.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought response of the Election Commission on a plea by the Aam Aadmi Party against the poll panel's decision to reject its objection against registration of the 'Aapki Apni Party (Peoples)' as a political party. Justice Siddharth Mridul issued a notice to the EC and the Aapki Apni Party (Peoples) seeking their stand on the plea by AAP seeking de-registration of the newly formed party. The Aam Aadmi Party has sought de-registration of the new party on the grounds that the abbreviation of both the parties would be the same -- AAP — which could confuse voters. The petition, filed through advocate Anupam Srivastava, claimed that the new party's name was similar sounding and that could confuse voters. The AAP has sought quashing of the EC's July 16 order rejecting its objection against registration of Aapki Apni Party (Peoples) as a political party under provisions of the Representation of People Act.

AAP wants de-registration of similarly-named party: HC seeks EC stand

The Trump administration wants to give new Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan space to explore opportunities to improve relations with India, a senior Pentagon official has said. Many new governments come to power in Islamabad and want to improve the relationship with India, but then soon face realities and all the difficulties, Randall G Schriver, US Assistant Secretary of Defence for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs said at an event organised by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace here.

“We want to give the new prime minister of the new government of Pakistan space to explore where there may be opportunities to improve relations with India,” he said. He was responding to a question from moderator Ashley Tellis from Carnegie on the triangular relationship between India, the US and Pakistan.

“But in terms of separating what was said during the campaign and what he said since the election, we want to give him space to find the opportunities to improve things with India,” Schriver said. Responding to a question on giving space to Khan, he explained that this is in the context of India-Pakistan relationship and this does not indicate any change in the policy of the Trump administration with regard to Pakistan.

The Pentagon official insisted that this means no change in its policy towards Islamabad and its current approach of cutting financial assistance would continue. “What I said about giving him space was really in the context of the India-Pakistan relationship. We’d certainly like to give him space to make the right decisions on a variety of things,” he said.

“But our approach of cutting assistance and pressuring Pakistan on their relationship with the Taliban, persuading them to come to the table, dealing with terrorist networks, that’ll be sustained. When I say give space, it’s not changing our approach or our policy. It is the context of developing opportunities between India and Pakistan,” Schriver said.

The Pentagon also cautioned Pakistan on seeking massive financial assistance from China, which risks its sovereignty. “If you look at other examples where countries went all in, or largely in with China, the results have not been particularly good. There has been an erosion of sovereignty and an erosion of control. There are many examples of that,” he said.

“So, if our friends in Pakistan want to talk about a way out of that or want to talk about strengthening their economy and deal with that, I’m sure we’d be open to that and trying to work with Pakistan, work either bilaterally or through international institutions to try to get them on a better path,” Schriver said. The US, he said, is not interested in a failed Pakistan by any stretch of the imagination. “We want them to be successful. We want them to have sovereign control and not cede that to any outside party, including China. And the economic piece is probably going to be key to that,” he said.

The Trump administration wants to give new Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan space to explore opportunities to improve relations with India, a senior Pentagon official has said.

The Trump administration wants to give new Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan space to explore opportunities to improve relations with India, a senior Pentagon official has said. Many new governments come to power in Islamabad and want to improve the relationship with India, but then soon face realities and all the difficulties, Randall G Schriver, US Assistant Secretary of Defence for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs said at an event organised by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace here. “We want to give the new prime minister of the new government of Pakistan space to explore where there may be opportunities to improve relations with India,” he said. He was responding to a question from moderator Ashley Tellis from Carnegie on the triangular relationship between India, the US and Pakistan. “But in terms of separating what was said during the campaign and what he said since the election, we want to give him space to find the opportunities to improve things with India,” Schriver said. Responding to a question on giving space to Khan, he explained that this is in the context of India-Pakistan relationship and this does not indicate any change in the policy of the Trump administration with regard to Pakistan. The Pentagon official insisted that this means no change in its policy towards Islamabad and its current approach of cutting financial assistance would continue. “What I said about giving him space was really in the context of the India-Pakistan relationship. We’d certainly like to give him space to make the right decisions on a variety of things,” he said. “But our approach of cutting assistance and pressuring Pakistan on their relationship with the Taliban, persuading them to come to the table, dealing with terrorist networks, that’ll be sustained. When I say give space, it’s not changing our approach or our policy. It is the context of developing opportunities between India and Pakistan,” Schriver said. The Pentagon also cautioned Pakistan on seeking massive financial assistance from China, which risks its sovereignty. “If you look at other examples where countries went all in, or largely in with China, the results have not been particularly good. There has been an erosion of sovereignty and an erosion of control. There are many examples of that,” he said. “So, if our friends in Pakistan want to talk about a way out of that or want to talk about strengthening their economy and deal with that, I’m sure we’d be open to that and trying to work with Pakistan, work either bilaterally or through international institutions to try to get them on a better path,” Schriver said. The US, he said, is not interested in a failed Pakistan by any stretch of the imagination. “We want them to be successful. We want them to have sovereign control and not cede that to any outside party, including China. And the economic piece is probably going to be key to that,” he said.

Want to give Imran Khan space to explore improving relations with India, says Pentagon

The Supreme Court on Thursday said that an individual belonging to a Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) community cannot claim the benefit of reservation in government employment in other states if his or her caste is not notified there.&nbsp;

This means, if a person has been migrated to some other state in India, other than his own, for purpose of employment or education, his/her name should be notified in the other state’s list to avail the quota benefits.

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi unanimously held that a person belonging to SC in one state cannot be deemed to be an SC in other states.&nbsp;

The bench, which also comprised Justices N V Ramana, R Banumathi, M Shantanagoudar and Justice S A Nazeer, held that a person notified as Scheduled Caste in state A cannot claim the same status in another state on the basis that he is declared as Scheduled Caste in state A.

Justice Banumathi, however, disagreed with the majority view on the aspect of applicability of central reservation policy on SC/ST in the national capital territory, Delhi.&nbsp;

According to a report by PTI, the bench with a majority of 4:1 held that so far as Delhi is concerned, the central reservation policy regarding SC/ST would be applicable here.

It must be noted that the verdict came on a batch of petitions that had raised the issue whether a SC/ST in one state can seek reservation in another state where his caste is not notified as SC/ST. The bench was also seized of the question whether SC/ST people of another state can seek quota benefits for government jobs in Delhi.

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi unanimously held that a person belonging to SC in one state cannot be deemed to be an SC in other states.

The Supreme Court on Thursday said that an individual belonging to a Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) community cannot claim the benefit of reservation in government employment in other states if his or her caste is not notified there. This means, if a person has been migrated to some other state in India, other than his own, for purpose of employment or education, his/her name should be notified in the other state’s list to avail the quota benefits. A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi unanimously held that a person belonging to SC in one state cannot be deemed to be an SC in other states. The bench, which also comprised Justices N V Ramana, R Banumathi, M Shantanagoudar and Justice S A Nazeer, held that a person notified as Scheduled Caste in state A cannot claim the same status in another state on the basis that he is declared as Scheduled Caste in state A. Justice Banumathi, however, disagreed with the majority view on the aspect of applicability of central reservation policy on SC/ST in the national capital territory, Delhi. According to a report by PTI, the bench with a majority of 4:1 held that so far as Delhi is concerned, the central reservation policy regarding SC/ST would be applicable here. It must be noted that the verdict came on a batch of petitions that had raised the issue whether a SC/ST in one state can seek reservation in another state where his caste is not notified as SC/ST. The bench was also seized of the question whether SC/ST people of another state can seek quota benefits for government jobs in Delhi.

SC/ST members cannot claim quota benefit in another state unless caste notified there: Supreme Court

Dubbing the case against him and other activists over Maharashtra’s Koregaon-Bhima violence as false, Leftist poet and writer Varavara Rao insisted Thursday their fight against “fascist policies” cannot be called a conspiracy.

He said the case for Koregaon-Bhima clashes between Dalits and upper caste Marathas should have been filed against the Maharashtra government and the Centre and not activists.

“This is a false case. If the fight against fascist policies is called a conspiracy, then there cannot be a bigger conspiracy than this (calling the fight a conspiracy),” Rao, who was brought here by Pune police in the morning following a Supreme Court order, told reporters at the airport.

The Supreme Court had yesterday pulled up Maharashtra police over the arrest of five prominent human rights activists for their alleged Maoist links and ordered that they will not be lodged in jail but kept under house arrest till September 6.

“They (the Supreme Court) have ordered house arrest. As we have been saying, this is a false case against us. Bhima-Koregaon case should have been filed against the state and central governments,” he said.

According to Rao’s wife Hemalatha, he was flown here from Pune at 7 in the morning and barring his close relatives nobody was being allowed to meet him.

Rao’s counsel said Telangana police was not permitting even his lawyers to meet him.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central Zone) Viswa Prasad said Hyderabad police was enforcing the apex court’s order of house arrest.

Prasad said since the poet-activist was under house arrest, he was not allowed to come out of confinement or make public appearances.

He said only his wife and children, if they are living with him in the same house, will be allowed in.

The city police has made elaborate security arrangements around Rao’s apartment building.

Apart from Rao, human rights activists Vernon Gonzalves, Arun Ferreira, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha were arrested from different states on Tuesday for their alleged links to Naxalites.

In a blow to the Maharashtra police, the apex court had yesterday questioned its decision of arresting the activists nine months after the violence between Dalits and upper caste Marathas in Koregaon-Bhima village near Pune following ‘Elgar Parishad’, a conclave of Dalits, on December 31 last year.

Provocative speeches allegedly made at the conclave had triggered the violence which soon spread to several districts of Maharashtra, leaving a trail of destruction.

He said the case for Koregaon-Bhima clashes between Dalits and upper caste Marathas should have been filed against the Maharashtra government and the Centre and not activists.

Dubbing the case against him and other activists over Maharashtra’s Koregaon-Bhima violence as false, Leftist poet and writer Varavara Rao insisted Thursday their fight against “fascist policies” cannot be called a conspiracy. He said the case for Koregaon-Bhima clashes between Dalits and upper caste Marathas should have been filed against the Maharashtra government and the Centre and not activists. “This is a false case. If the fight against fascist policies is called a conspiracy, then there cannot be a bigger conspiracy than this (calling the fight a conspiracy),” Rao, who was brought here by Pune police in the morning following a Supreme Court order, told reporters at the airport. The Supreme Court had yesterday pulled up Maharashtra police over the arrest of five prominent human rights activists for their alleged Maoist links and ordered that they will not be lodged in jail but kept under house arrest till September 6. “They (the Supreme Court) have ordered house arrest. As we have been saying, this is a false case against us. Bhima-Koregaon case should have been filed against the state and central governments,” he said. According to Rao’s wife Hemalatha, he was flown here from Pune at 7 in the morning and barring his close relatives nobody was being allowed to meet him. Rao’s counsel said Telangana police was not permitting even his lawyers to meet him. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central Zone) Viswa Prasad said Hyderabad police was enforcing the apex court’s order of house arrest. Prasad said since the poet-activist was under house arrest, he was not allowed to come out of confinement or make public appearances. He said only his wife and children, if they are living with him in the same house, will be allowed in. The city police has made elaborate security arrangements around Rao’s apartment building. Apart from Rao, human rights activists Vernon Gonzalves, Arun Ferreira, Sudha Bharadwaj and Gautam Navlakha were arrested from different states on Tuesday for their alleged links to Naxalites. In a blow to the Maharashtra police, the apex court had yesterday questioned its decision of arresting the activists nine months after the violence between Dalits and upper caste Marathas in Koregaon-Bhima village near Pune following ‘Elgar Parishad’, a conclave of Dalits, on December 31 last year. Provocative speeches allegedly made at the conclave had triggered the violence which soon spread to several districts of Maharashtra, leaving a trail of destruction.

Arrest of activists: Case false, fight against fascist policies not conspiracy, says Varavara Rao

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday left for the United States for medical treatment, an official said.

Parrikar, 62, had undergone treatment in the US for three months earlier this year for a pancreatic ailment and returned in June. He went to the US again for a follow-up earlier this month.

"Parrikar took the Air India flight from Mumbai airport at 1.30 am," an official in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) told.

"He has left for the US on a short trip will be back in eight days," he said.

Parrikar was admitted to the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai for a review health check-up last Thursday, a day after he returned from the US.

A senior official in the CMO had said yesterday that Parrikar will go to the US again for further medical treatment.

A meeting of Goa BJP leaders with party chief Amit Shah in Delhi, which was earlier scheduled for today to discuss the leadership issue in the coastal state in view of Parrikar's medical treatment, was cancelled yesterday, a senior functionary had said last night.

Seeking to rest speculation about change of guard in Goa, the CMO said last night that Parrikar would not hand over the charge to anyone else and continue to clear important files from the US.

There was "no order" to the CM to hand over his responsibility to anyone, a senior CMO official said.&nbsp

Parrikar, 62, had undergone treatment in the US for three months earlier this year for a pancreatic ailment and returned in June

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday left for the United States for medical treatment, an official said. Parrikar, 62, had undergone treatment in the US for three months earlier this year for a pancreatic ailment and returned in June. He went to the US again for a follow-up earlier this month. "Parrikar took the Air India flight from Mumbai airport at 1.30 am," an official in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) told. "He has left for the US on a short trip will be back in eight days," he said. Parrikar was admitted to the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai for a review health check-up last Thursday, a day after he returned from the US. A senior official in the CMO had said yesterday that Parrikar will go to the US again for further medical treatment. A meeting of Goa BJP leaders with party chief Amit Shah in Delhi, which was earlier scheduled for today to discuss the leadership issue in the coastal state in view of Parrikar's medical treatment, was cancelled yesterday, a senior functionary had said last night. Seeking to rest speculation about change of guard in Goa, the CMO said last night that Parrikar would not hand over the charge to anyone else and continue to clear important files from the US. There was "no order" to the CM to hand over his responsibility to anyone, a senior CMO official said.

Manohar Parrikar flies to US for medical treatment

The majority of CPI(M) West Bengal unit on Wednesday advocated in the favour of an adjustment with the Congress and other secular and democratic forces in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls.

A one-day long meeting of the Left party was held today to discuss the strategy for 42 Lok Sabha seats from West Bengal. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present in the meeting.

"Most of the state committee members were in favour of a seat adjustment with Congress in order to stop the march of BJP and TMC in Bengal," said a senior CPI(M) state committee member.

However, the district units of Kolkata, Burdwan, and Jalpaiguri were against any sort of adjustment with the grand old party.&nbsp;

"We can't deny the credentials and acceptability of the Congress as a secular force and when the question is of fighting against a communal force like the BJP, the Congress cannot be treated as untouchable," a senior CPI(M) state committee member.

According to party sources, all the district units have been asked to prepare a list of seats where "an adjustment with Congress will be a game-changer". The report will be then placed in the central committee and politburo meeting for further discussion.&nbsp;

According to a senior CPI(M) state committee leader, the meeting also discussed various modalities, including the party's ability to win seats on its own.

"Let us accept the fact that the situation in Bengal is not very conducive for us. We have to see which seats can be won if there is an adjustment with the Congress. We will send the report to the central committee," he told on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

A one-day long meeting of the Left party was held today to discuss the strategy for 42 Lok Sabha seats from West Bengal. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present in the meeting.

The majority of CPI(M) West Bengal unit on Wednesday advocated in the favour of an adjustment with the Congress and other secular and democratic forces in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls. A one-day long meeting of the Left party was held today to discuss the strategy for 42 Lok Sabha seats from West Bengal. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present in the meeting. "Most of the state committee members were in favour of a seat adjustment with Congress in order to stop the march of BJP and TMC in Bengal," said a senior CPI(M) state committee member. However, the district units of Kolkata, Burdwan, and Jalpaiguri were against any sort of adjustment with the grand old party. "We can't deny the credentials and acceptability of the Congress as a secular force and when the question is of fighting against a communal force like the BJP, the Congress cannot be treated as untouchable," a senior CPI(M) state committee member. According to party sources, all the district units have been asked to prepare a list of seats where "an adjustment with Congress will be a game-changer". The report will be then placed in the central committee and politburo meeting for further discussion. According to a senior CPI(M) state committee leader, the meeting also discussed various modalities, including the party's ability to win seats on its own. "Let us accept the fact that the situation in Bengal is not very conducive for us. We have to see which seats can be won if there is an adjustment with the Congress. We will send the report to the central committee," he told on condition of anonymity.

Majority of WB CPI(M) units bats in favour of adjustment with Congress in LS polls

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is probing the alleged foreign funding of terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, has arrested Shakeel, son of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin.

An NIA team along with CRPF and local police arrested Shakeel, reported news agency ANI&nbsp;quoting NIA spokesperson.&nbsp;

Shakeel was arrested in Rambagh, Srinagar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar to prevent protests called by separatists in support of Article 35A.

"Restrictions have been imposed in areas under the jurisdiction of Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, MR Gunj and Safa Kadal police stations while partial restrictions will remain in force in areas under Kralkhud and Maisuma police stations on Thursday and Friday.

"The restrictions are purely preventive in nature and have been imposed to maintain law and order," the J&K Police said in a statement.

Shakeel was arrested in Rambagh, Srinagar

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is probing the alleged foreign funding of terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, has arrested Shakeel, son of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin. An NIA team along with CRPF and local police arrested Shakeel, reported news agency ANI quoting NIA spokesperson. Shakeel was arrested in Rambagh, Srinagar. Meanwhile, restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar to prevent protests called by separatists in support of Article 35A. "Restrictions have been imposed in areas under the jurisdiction of Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, MR Gunj and Safa Kadal police stations while partial restrictions will remain in force in areas under Kralkhud and Maisuma police stations on Thursday and Friday. "The restrictions are purely preventive in nature and have been imposed to maintain law and order," the J&K Police said in a statement.

NIA arrests Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin's son Shakeel

The Supreme Court today expressed displeasure over the Centre not furnishing details sought by it on setting up of special courts to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians, saying the government is “unprepared”. “The government is compelling us to pass certain orders which we do not want to at this stage,” a bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, adding “the Union of India is unprepared”.

“The Union of India doesn’t appear to be ready and prepared,” it said. The bench perused the additional affidavit filed by the government in which it has said that as per the apex court’s direction, they had released funds to 11 states to set up 12 such special courts. Regarding the apex court’s query including on the number of cases pending before each of these special courts, the Centre has said the Ministry of Law and Justice was “regularly taking up the matter with the concerned authorities for furnishing the information regarding the cases transferred/disposed/pending in the said court(s)”.

The bench posted the matter for further hearing on September 12. In its affidavit filed in the court, the Centre has said that two special courts were to be set up in Delhi and one each in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

“All the state governments/High Courts have issued the notifications for setting up of a special court(s) in their respective states except for the state of Tamil Nadu, wherein it has been informed that the proposal is under consideration of the High Court of Madras,” the affidavit said.

Regarding the top court’s query on whether the Centre intended to set up more special courts over and above these 12, the affidavit said the High Courts of Karnataka, Allahabad, Madhya Pradesh, Patna, Calcutta and Delhi “have informed that there is no requirement of additional special court(s) while the High Court of Bombay has expressed the requirement of an additional court.”

The affidavit sought a direction that if additional courts were required, they should be set up within the allocations available with the states or from their own resources. Regarding queries posed in November last year including on how many of 1,581 cases involving MPs and MLAs were disposed of within the time-frame of one year, the affidavit said that “updated information on the queries” would be separately filed by the legislative department of the ministry.

On August 21, the court had asked the Centre to inform it about how many special courts have been set up to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians after its order last year. The top court had on December 14 last year directed the Centre to set up 12 special courts to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians and that these should start functioning from March 1 this year.

The top court was hearing the petition filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay who has sought to declare provisions of the Representation of the People Act, which bar convicted politician from contesting elections for six years after serving a jail term, as ultra vires of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court today expressed displeasure over the Centre not furnishing details sought by it on setting up of special courts to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians, saying the government is "unprepared".

The Supreme Court today expressed displeasure over the Centre not furnishing details sought by it on setting up of special courts to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians, saying the government is “unprepared”. “The government is compelling us to pass certain orders which we do not want to at this stage,” a bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, adding “the Union of India is unprepared”. “The Union of India doesn’t appear to be ready and prepared,” it said. The bench perused the additional affidavit filed by the government in which it has said that as per the apex court’s direction, they had released funds to 11 states to set up 12 such special courts. Regarding the apex court’s query including on the number of cases pending before each of these special courts, the Centre has said the Ministry of Law and Justice was “regularly taking up the matter with the concerned authorities for furnishing the information regarding the cases transferred/disposed/pending in the said court(s)”. The bench posted the matter for further hearing on September 12. In its affidavit filed in the court, the Centre has said that two special courts were to be set up in Delhi and one each in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. “All the state governments/High Courts have issued the notifications for setting up of a special court(s) in their respective states except for the state of Tamil Nadu, wherein it has been informed that the proposal is under consideration of the High Court of Madras,” the affidavit said. Regarding the top court’s query on whether the Centre intended to set up more special courts over and above these 12, the affidavit said the High Courts of Karnataka, Allahabad, Madhya Pradesh, Patna, Calcutta and Delhi “have informed that there is no requirement of additional special court(s) while the High Court of Bombay has expressed the requirement of an additional court.” The affidavit sought a direction that if additional courts were required, they should be set up within the allocations available with the states or from their own resources. Regarding queries posed in November last year including on how many of 1,581 cases involving MPs and MLAs were disposed of within the time-frame of one year, the affidavit said that “updated information on the queries” would be separately filed by the legislative department of the ministry. On August 21, the court had asked the Centre to inform it about how many special courts have been set up to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians after its order last year. The top court had on December 14 last year directed the Centre to set up 12 special courts to exclusively deal with cases involving politicians and that these should start functioning from March 1 this year. The top court was hearing the petition filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay who has sought to declare provisions of the Representation of the People Act, which bar convicted politician from contesting elections for six years after serving a jail term, as ultra vires of the Constitution.

Cases against politicians: Supreme Court irked by Centre's failure to give details

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took yet another swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Gandhi said demonetisation was a "scam". And that the aim was to take people's money, and put it in the hands of Prime Minister Modi's "crony capitalists".&nbsp;

The arrangement, said Gandhi, was simple.&nbsp;

The crony capitalists, he said, "market" Modi. And in return, Modi gave them money (via demonetisation).&nbsp;

"Notebandi was not a mistake," Gandhi said. "It was an attack on farmers and small businesses."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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LIVE: Press briefing by CP <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/rssurjewala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rssurjewala</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModiDemonetisationScam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModiDemonetisationScam</a> <a href="https://t.co/AbMd2IvxUk">https://t.co/AbMd2IvxUk</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1035133576423985153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The objective of Demonetisation was very clear. It was to help PM Modi's friends. Demonetisation was not a mistake, it was a deliberate move. During UPA regime, NPAs were Rs 2.5 lakh crore. It has now jumped to Rs 12.5 lakh crore: Congress President Rahul Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/gJZSKgMeUw">pic.twitter.com/gJZSKgMeUw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1035139294334214146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-after-rahul-gandhi-allegation-jaitley-says-larger-purpose-of-demonetisation-achieved-162575">Arun Jaitley says 'larger purpose of demonetisation' achieved</a>

Gandhi added that demonetisation wreaked havoc on India's farmers and small businesses. And that Prime Minister Modi would have to explain it to India's youth, farmers, and small and medium businesspeople.&nbsp;

Gandhi added that the "evidence was coming out, you will soon have it". He did not however offer any to back up his statements on Thursday.&nbsp;

Gandhi also mentioned the Rafale deal. Saying that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was right to ask questions.&nbsp;

And that he (Gandhi) had in turn said all questions would be answered by a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe. But that Jaitley continued to write "long, long blogs" but would say nothing to the suggestion of a JPC.&nbsp;

Gandhi also read from the joint statement made by Prime Minister Modi and French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron after they reached the new Rafale deal. (The original deal had been broked by the previous UPA government.)&nbsp;

The Congress says Modi's NDA government is paying more for the Rafale fighter jets than originally agreed by the UPA government.&nbsp;

Gandhi quoted from from the joint statement, which said: "The Rafale jets would have the same configuration as decided by the Indian Air Force... "

The NDA government has, since the opposition has accused it of a scam, said the price points of the deal had changed because of the changes in the configuration of the planes.&nbsp;

But, said Gandhi, if the planes are to still be configured as "decided (earlier) by the Indian Air Force", but the price points have still been changed, then the government is lying.&nbsp;

'Notebandi was not a mistake. It was an attack on farmers and small businesses,' Gandhi said. He added that the 'evidence was coming out, you will soon have it'.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took yet another swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Gandhi said demonetisation was a "scam". And that the aim was to take people's money, and put it in the hands of Prime Minister Modi's "crony capitalists". The arrangement, said Gandhi, was simple. The crony capitalists, he said, "market" Modi. And in return, Modi gave them money (via demonetisation). "Notebandi was not a mistake," Gandhi said. "It was an attack on farmers and small businesses." LIVE: Press briefing by CP @RahulGandhi and @rssurjewala. #ModiDemonetisationScam https://t.co/AbMd2IvxUk — Congress (@INCIndia) August 30, 2018 × The objective of Demonetisation was very clear. It was to help PM Modi's friends. Demonetisation was not a mistake, it was a deliberate move. During UPA regime, NPAs were Rs 2.5 lakh crore. It has now jumped to Rs 12.5 lakh crore: Congress President Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/gJZSKgMeUw — ANI (@ANI) August 30, 2018 × Also read: Arun Jaitley says 'larger purpose of demonetisation' achieved Gandhi added that demonetisation wreaked havoc on India's farmers and small businesses. And that Prime Minister Modi would have to explain it to India's youth, farmers, and small and medium businesspeople. Gandhi added that the "evidence was coming out, you will soon have it". He did not however offer any to back up his statements on Thursday. Gandhi also mentioned the Rafale deal. Saying that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was right to ask questions. And that he (Gandhi) had in turn said all questions would be answered by a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe. But that Jaitley continued to write "long, long blogs" but would say nothing to the suggestion of a JPC. Gandhi also read from the joint statement made by Prime Minister Modi and French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron after they reached the new Rafale deal. (The original deal had been broked by the previous UPA government.) The Congress says Modi's NDA government is paying more for the Rafale fighter jets than originally agreed by the UPA government. Gandhi quoted from from the joint statement, which said: "The Rafale jets would have the same configuration as decided by the Indian Air Force... " The NDA government has, since the opposition has accused it of a scam, said the price points of the deal had changed because of the changes in the configuration of the planes. But, said Gandhi, if the planes are to still be configured as "decided (earlier) by the Indian Air Force", but the price points have still been changed, then the government is lying.

Aim of demonetisation clear, it was to help PM Modi's friends: Rahul Gandhi

<a href="wionews.com/world/part-of-north-koreas-problem-caused-by-trade-disputes-with-china-trump-162398">Part of North Korea's problem caused by trade dispute with China: Trump</a>

US President Trump while hailing his personal relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, said relations with North Korea has been made difficult due to China aid.

<a href="wionews.com/world/argentina-imf-agree-accelerated-loan-payout-as-crisis-worsens-162396">Argentina, IMF agree to accelerate loan payout as crisis worsens</a>

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri said Wednesday that the International Monetary Fund has agreed to accelerate funding in support of his government's austerity program, but the move did little to calm the market as the country's currency came under renewed pressure.

<a href="wionews.com/world/thousands-of-people-displaced-as-myanmar-dam-overflow-162413">Thousands of people displaced as Myanmar dam overflow</a>

A major effort was underway to reach thousands of people trapped in their homes after a dam swollen by monsoon rain overflowed early Wednesday in central Myanmar, officials said.&nbsp

<a href="wionews.com/world/will-be-concerned-if-india-pursues-new-platforms-with-russia-us-official-162404">Will be concerned if India pursues new platforms with Russia: US official</a>

&nbspA top Pentagon official has cautioned India that there are no guarantees for a special waiver from US sanctions if it buys new weapons platforms from Russia.

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-nepal-today-for-4th-bimstec-summit-162409">PM Modi in Nepal today for 4th BIMSTEC summit</a>

&nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi left for a two-day visit to Nepal where he will be attending fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit.

&nbsp

Part of North Korea's problem caused by trade dispute with China: Trump US President Trump while hailing his personal relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, said relations with North Korea has been made difficult due to China aid. Argentina, IMF agree to accelerate loan payout as crisis worsens Argentina's President Mauricio Macri said Wednesday that the International Monetary Fund has agreed to accelerate funding in support of his government's austerity program, but the move did little to calm the market as the country's currency came under renewed pressure. Thousands of people displaced as Myanmar dam overflow A major effort was underway to reach thousands of people trapped in their homes after a dam swollen by monsoon rain overflowed early Wednesday in central Myanmar, officials said. Will be concerned if India pursues new platforms with Russia: US official &nbspA top Pentagon official has cautioned India that there are no guarantees for a special waiver from US sanctions if it buys new weapons platforms from Russia. PM Modi in Nepal today for 4th BIMSTEC summit &nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi left for a two-day visit to Nepal where he will be attending fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Law Commission on Thursday came out with a draft suggestion on how to hold simultaneous polls&nbsp;in the country.&nbsp;

The Law Commission admitted it was not possible to hold <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/debate-on-simultaneous-polls-a-healthy-sign-of-democracy-tribute-to-vajpayee-pm-modi-161678">simultaneous polls&nbsp;</a>under the current framework of the Constitution, and therefore suggested that a constitutional amendment would be required.&nbsp;

The Law Commission added that simultaneous polls are good for the country since they will save public money, reduce the administrative and security burden, and ensure that the administration is engaged in development work after the holding of elections.

The Law Commission suggested three options for the holding of simultaneous polls.

The first option suggested that Lok Sabha elections can be bunched with a few states in 2019 while the remaining states can hold assembly elections in 2021 with their tenure limited to 30 months.

This will ensure that in 2024 all states and the centre hold simultaneous polls which the BJP has been assiduously campaigning for. This would entail the amendment of article 172.

The second option also requires amendment of the state article but looks like an act of compromise. It argues that willing states should be bunched during 2019 Lok Sabha elections and rest with an amendment to the article in 2021 so that elections are held in two cycles every 5 years. It is argued that this act will reduce the administrative burden.

The last option says that all state elections should be bunched together on a yearly bases which translates into one set of elections every calendar year. This too would require an amendment to article 85 and 174.

This would also require half of the states of the union to fall in line and sign the provision for change. To ensure stability, the concept of a constructive vote of confidence may need to be adopted. It will also lead to a limited number of motions against the government. In case there is a hung Parliament or assembly and the government falls and elections happen, the House will only be constituted for the remainder of the term. &nbsp;The Commission said that for this article 83 and 172 will need to be amended.

On the issue of disqualification, the Law Commission says that such issues will have to be dealt by the chair of the House within 6 months and all by-elections arising must be clubbed together for the calendar year.

The Law Commission said simultaneous polls are good for the country since they will save public money, reduce the administrative and security burden, and ensure that administration is engaged in development work after the holding of elections.

The Law Commission on Thursday came out with a draft suggestion on how to hold simultaneous polls in the country. The Law Commission admitted it was not possible to hold simultaneous polls under the current framework of the Constitution, and therefore suggested that a constitutional amendment would be required. The Law Commission added that simultaneous polls are good for the country since they will save public money, reduce the administrative and security burden, and ensure that the administration is engaged in development work after the holding of elections. The Law Commission suggested three options for the holding of simultaneous polls. The first option suggested that Lok Sabha elections can be bunched with a few states in 2019 while the remaining states can hold assembly elections in 2021 with their tenure limited to 30 months. This will ensure that in 2024 all states and the centre hold simultaneous polls which the BJP has been assiduously campaigning for. This would entail the amendment of article 172. The second option also requires amendment of the state article but looks like an act of compromise. It argues that willing states should be bunched during 2019 Lok Sabha elections and rest with an amendment to the article in 2021 so that elections are held in two cycles every 5 years. It is argued that this act will reduce the administrative burden. The last option says that all state elections should be bunched together on a yearly bases which translates into one set of elections every calendar year. This too would require an amendment to article 85 and 174. This would also require half of the states of the union to fall in line and sign the provision for change. To ensure stability, the concept of a constructive vote of confidence may need to be adopted. It will also lead to a limited number of motions against the government. In case there is a hung Parliament or assembly and the government falls and elections happen, the House will only be constituted for the remainder of the term. The Commission said that for this article 83 and 172 will need to be amended. On the issue of disqualification, the Law Commission says that such issues will have to be dealt by the chair of the House within 6 months and all by-elections arising must be clubbed together for the calendar year.

Law Commission endorses simultaneous polls, says will require constitutional amendment

Congress leader and senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who was once at loggerheads with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on Wednesday represented the AAP government in the Supreme Court to argue matters related to control of services and other powers in the national capital.

Kapil Sibal, whose son and senior advocate Amit Sibal had filed a defamation complaint against Kejriwal and other AAP leaders, recently buried the hatchet by taking back the case after they apologised.

Kapil Sibal led the argument for the Delhi government before a bench of justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan in cases that signify the tug of war between the AAP government and the Centre over powers of the lieutenant governor (LG) in the legislative affairs of the Delhi assembly.

Sibal senior had not appeared for the Delhi government during the hearing before the five-judge Constitution bench that had the matter on the Delhi-Centre power row.

In case lodged by Amit Sibal in 2013, it was alleged that Kejriwal, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, expelled AAP leader Prashant Bhushan and now BJP leader Shazia Ilmi, who was then an AAP member, had targeted him and his father Kapil Sibal, the then telecom minister, over the Vodafone tax revision case and had allegedly raised the bogey of conflict of interest.

On March 19, Kejriwal had tendered a written unconditional apology to Amit Sibal, after which he was discharged by a city court in the criminal defamation case.

In his apology letter, the chief minister had said he regretted making the defamatory remarks without any verification and accepted that they were based on "unfounded allegations".

In their identical letters to Amit Sibal, Kejriwal and Sisodia had apologised to him and said, "I have learnt that the allegations I made against you and your father at the press conference were unfounded. I hereby withdraw all my statements and allegations made against you and your father and apologise for the same."

Kapil Sibal had then told that Kejriwal's apology has been accepted, adding, "we don't want to fight with anyone".

Kapil Sibal, whose son and senior advocate Amit Sibal had filed a defamation complaint against Kejriwal and other AAP leaders, recently buried the hatchet by taking back the case after they apologised.

Congress leader and senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who was once at loggerheads with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on Wednesday represented the AAP government in the Supreme Court to argue matters related to control of services and other powers in the national capital. Kapil Sibal, whose son and senior advocate Amit Sibal had filed a defamation complaint against Kejriwal and other AAP leaders, recently buried the hatchet by taking back the case after they apologised. Kapil Sibal led the argument for the Delhi government before a bench of justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan in cases that signify the tug of war between the AAP government and the Centre over powers of the lieutenant governor (LG) in the legislative affairs of the Delhi assembly. Sibal senior had not appeared for the Delhi government during the hearing before the five-judge Constitution bench that had the matter on the Delhi-Centre power row. In case lodged by Amit Sibal in 2013, it was alleged that Kejriwal, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, expelled AAP leader Prashant Bhushan and now BJP leader Shazia Ilmi, who was then an AAP member, had targeted him and his father Kapil Sibal, the then telecom minister, over the Vodafone tax revision case and had allegedly raised the bogey of conflict of interest. On March 19, Kejriwal had tendered a written unconditional apology to Amit Sibal, after which he was discharged by a city court in the criminal defamation case. In his apology letter, the chief minister had said he regretted making the defamatory remarks without any verification and accepted that they were based on "unfounded allegations". In their identical letters to Amit Sibal, Kejriwal and Sisodia had apologised to him and said, "I have learnt that the allegations I made against you and your father at the press conference were unfounded. I hereby withdraw all my statements and allegations made against you and your father and apologise for the same." Kapil Sibal had then told that Kejriwal's apology has been accepted, adding, "we don't want to fight with anyone".

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal bats for Kejriwal government in Supreme Court

Hitting back at at Rahul Gandhi over his push for a &nbspJoint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Rafale deal, BJP president Amit Shah described JPC as 'Jhoothi Party Congress" and said the Congress chief's "lies to fool the nation are self-evident".

In his reply on Twitter tagging Gandhi's tweet in which the Congress leader had attacked Finance Minister Arun Jaitley over his defence of the Rafale deal negotiated by the Modi government, Shah said Gandhi had quoted different prices of the aircraft at different places.

"Your lies to fool the nation are self-evident when Rafale price you quote vary in Delhi, Karnataka, Raipur, Hyderabad, Jaipur & Parliament. But the nation's IQ is higher than yours!" Shah tweeted.

To Gandhi's demand of a JPC probe and sarcastic suggestion to Jaitley to revert in 24 hours, Shah retorted, "Why wait 24 hours when you already have your JPC-Jhoothi Party Congress."

Earlier, Gandhi had tweeted following Jaitley's interview in which he had put up a strong defence of the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, saying "Mr Jaitley, thanks for bringing the nation's attention back to the GREAT #RAFALE ROBBERY! "How about a Joint Parliamentary Committee to sort it out? Problem is, your Supreme Leader is protecting his friend, so this may be inconvenient. Do check & revert in 24 hrs. We're waiting!"

Shah also tagged the link of a news story about Gandhi quoting different prices of the aircraft.&nbsp

To Gandhi's demand of a JPC probe and sarcastic suggestion to Jaitley to revert in 24 hours, Shah retorted, "Why wait 24 hours when you already have your JPC-Jhoothi Party Congress."

Hitting back at at Rahul Gandhi over his push for a &nbspJoint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Rafale deal, BJP president Amit Shah described JPC as 'Jhoothi Party Congress" and said the Congress chief's "lies to fool the nation are self-evident". In his reply on Twitter tagging Gandhi's tweet in which the Congress leader had attacked Finance Minister Arun Jaitley over his defence of the Rafale deal negotiated by the Modi government, Shah said Gandhi had quoted different prices of the aircraft at different places. "Your lies to fool the nation are self-evident when Rafale price you quote vary in Delhi, Karnataka, Raipur, Hyderabad, Jaipur & Parliament. But the nation's IQ is higher than yours!" Shah tweeted. To Gandhi's demand of a JPC probe and sarcastic suggestion to Jaitley to revert in 24 hours, Shah retorted, "Why wait 24 hours when you already have your JPC-Jhoothi Party Congress." Earlier, Gandhi had tweeted following Jaitley's interview in which he had put up a strong defence of the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, saying "Mr Jaitley, thanks for bringing the nation's attention back to the GREAT #RAFALE ROBBERY! "How about a Joint Parliamentary Committee to sort it out? Problem is, your Supreme Leader is protecting his friend, so this may be inconvenient. Do check & revert in 24 hrs. We're waiting!" Shah also tagged the link of a news story about Gandhi quoting different prices of the aircraft.

Nation's IQ is higher than yours: Amit Shah hits back at Rahul Gandhi

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley responded Thursday to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's allegation that demonetisation was a "scam" aimed at <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/aim-of-demonetisation-clear-it-was-to-help-pm-modis-friends-rahul-gandhi-162561">helping "Prime Minister Modi's friends"</a>.&nbsp;

Like he has been doing for some time, Jaitley responded with a note on Facebook.&nbsp;

"The Reserve Bank has twice released its reports stating that the demonetised Notes of `500 and `1000 have been substantially deposited in the Banks. A widely stated comment has been that just because most of the currency came back into the Banks, the object of Demonetisation has not succeeded," Jaitley wrote.&nbsp;

"Was the invalidation of the Non-deposited currency the only object of demonetisation?" he then asked, before answering: "Certainly Not."

Jaitley went on to add that "the larger purpose of demonetisation was to move INDIA from a Tax Non-compliant society to a compliant society. This necessarily involved the formalisation of the Economy and a blow to the black money."&nbsp;

He then went on to say how that had been achieved.&nbsp;

Read Arun Jaitley's Facebook post here:&nbsp;

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Jaitley ended his note saying "this is the positive impact of the Demonetisation. More formalisation of the Economy, More Money in the System, Higher Tax Revenue, Higher Expenditure, Higher Growth after the first two quarters."&nbsp;

'The larger purpose of demonetisation was to move INDIA from a Tax Non-compliant society to a compliant society. This necessarily involved the formalisation of the Economy and a blow to the black money,' Jaitley wrote.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley responded Thursday to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's allegation that demonetisation was a "scam" aimed at helping "Prime Minister Modi's friends". Like he has been doing for some time, Jaitley responded with a note on Facebook. "The Reserve Bank has twice released its reports stating that the demonetised Notes of `500 and `1000 have been substantially deposited in the Banks. A widely stated comment has been that just because most of the currency came back into the Banks, the object of Demonetisation has not succeeded," Jaitley wrote. "Was the invalidation of the Non-deposited currency the only object of demonetisation?" he then asked, before answering: "Certainly Not." Jaitley went on to add that "the larger purpose of demonetisation was to move INDIA from a Tax Non-compliant society to a compliant society. This necessarily involved the formalisation of the Economy and a blow to the black money." He then went on to say how that had been achieved. Read Arun Jaitley's Facebook post here: × Jaitley ended his note saying "this is the positive impact of the Demonetisation. More formalisation of the Economy, More Money in the System, Higher Tax Revenue, Higher Expenditure, Higher Growth after the first two quarters."

Arun Jaitley says 'larger purpose of demonetisation' achieved

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has been invited by the United Nations (UN) to deliver a keynote address at an event entitled `Financing Sustainable Agriculture: Global Challenges and Opportunities` &nbspto be organised on the sideline of the annual UN General Assembly in New York on September 24, reported news agency ANI.

In a letter, the United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Erik Solheim praised the Andhra Pradesh government for "delivering transformative environmental, social and economic impact through its pioneering Zero Budget Natural Farming Programme, the report added.

"UN Environment is privileged to support your ambitious efforts to scale-out zero chemical farming to 6 million farmers across the state by 2024," Solheim said to have said in the letter according to the report.&nbsp

In a letter, the UN Environment Programme Executive Director praised the AP government for "delivering transformative environmental, social and economic impact through its pioneering Zero Budget Natural Farming Programme

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has been invited by the United Nations (UN) to deliver a keynote address at an event entitled `Financing Sustainable Agriculture: Global Challenges and Opportunities` &nbspto be organised on the sideline of the annual UN General Assembly in New York on September 24, reported news agency ANI. In a letter, the United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Erik Solheim praised the Andhra Pradesh government for "delivering transformative environmental, social and economic impact through its pioneering Zero Budget Natural Farming Programme, the report added. "UN Environment is privileged to support your ambitious efforts to scale-out zero chemical farming to 6 million farmers across the state by 2024," Solheim said to have said in the letter according to the report.

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu invited to address UN forum

Money hidden in “bathrooms and bedrooms” have made their way back into the banking system due to the demonetisation exercise, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday, acknowledging the role of Jan Dhan accounts. Referring to the RBI report that said 99.3 per cent of the junked Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes have returned to the banking system, Naidu said he wondered why people were worried over it.

He said he was really happy that almost the entire money has come back into the banking system. “The money which was there in ‘bathrooms and bedrooms’ has come back to banks. My simple point is money has come back. How much out of it is black or white, it is the duty of RBI and Income Tax and they will verify,” Naidu said. “If people want to convert black into white…that also is allowed by Parliament..pay the tax..add to the revenue so that the money can be spent for the people,” he said.

Some people had criticised the Jan Dhan scheme, questioning its need when people have no money. “They realised the importance of Jan Dhan on November 8, 2016 (when demonetisation was announced), and started asking their drivers and peons..do you have a bank account?… that is how the money has come back to banks now. That is the secret. Those (suspicious) accounts have to be verified and confirmed,” Naidu said.

"My simple point is money has come back. How much out of it is black or white, it is the duty of RBI and Income Tax and they will verify," Naidu said.

Money hidden in “bathrooms and bedrooms” have made their way back into the banking system due to the demonetisation exercise, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday, acknowledging the role of Jan Dhan accounts. Referring to the RBI report that said 99.3 per cent of the junked Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes have returned to the banking system, Naidu said he wondered why people were worried over it. He said he was really happy that almost the entire money has come back into the banking system. “The money which was there in ‘bathrooms and bedrooms’ has come back to banks. My simple point is money has come back. How much out of it is black or white, it is the duty of RBI and Income Tax and they will verify,” Naidu said. “If people want to convert black into white…that also is allowed by Parliament..pay the tax..add to the revenue so that the money can be spent for the people,” he said. Some people had criticised the Jan Dhan scheme, questioning its need when people have no money. “They realised the importance of Jan Dhan on November 8, 2016 (when demonetisation was announced), and started asking their drivers and peons..do you have a bank account?… that is how the money has come back to banks now. That is the secret. Those (suspicious) accounts have to be verified and confirmed,” Naidu said.

Money ‘hidden in bathrooms’ have returned to banking system: Vice President

Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Wednesday said Congress leader Sachin Pilot had "no knowledge" about the culture and traditions of Rajasthan and he was a "novice" in state politics.

This was the first time that Raje has trained her guns on the state Congress chief in her ongoing "Gaurav Yatra", shifting her target from former chief minister Ashok Gehlot.

Addressing a rally in Jaitaran town of Pali disitrict in the second leg of the yatra, Raje advised Pilot to know the state first and question her afterwards. "Pilot is just a novice in the politics. He is neither aware of the culture of the state nor its traditions," the chief minister said, adding that she was the "bahu" of the state and "well-aware" of it and its culture.

The BJP leader, who reached Jaitaran from Jodhpur by a helicopter amid heavy rains, first paid obeisance to the Jain saint Roopmuni at Paavan Dham.

Citing the incidents of stone pelting on the yatra in Osain and Pipar, Raje said, "Congress is denying its hand in the attack on us, but everybody knows that who was behind it. They have humiliated the people of state and not me?, Raje said.

Attacking Gehlot, Raje said he came twice in the assembly, but never spoke anything about the state or any of its issues related to the people of the state.

Addressing another rally at Sojat, Raje countered allegations of wastage of money in the yatra. "We have brought the state out of the ignominious tag of sick state and this has brought 'gaurav' (pride). In order to celebrate this 'gaurav', we have been carrying out the 'Gaurav Yatra'."

Accusing the former prime minister Manmohan Singh of being "silent" on the Nirbhaya rape case, Raje said her government had enacted a law for the first time to hang the rapists of the girls below 12 years.&nbsp

This was the first time that Raje has trained her guns on the state Congress chief in her ongoing "Gaurav Yatra", shifting her target from former chief minister Ashok Gehlot

Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Wednesday said Congress leader Sachin Pilot had "no knowledge" about the culture and traditions of Rajasthan and he was a "novice" in state politics. This was the first time that Raje has trained her guns on the state Congress chief in her ongoing "Gaurav Yatra", shifting her target from former chief minister Ashok Gehlot. Addressing a rally in Jaitaran town of Pali disitrict in the second leg of the yatra, Raje advised Pilot to know the state first and question her afterwards. "Pilot is just a novice in the politics. He is neither aware of the culture of the state nor its traditions," the chief minister said, adding that she was the "bahu" of the state and "well-aware" of it and its culture. The BJP leader, who reached Jaitaran from Jodhpur by a helicopter amid heavy rains, first paid obeisance to the Jain saint Roopmuni at Paavan Dham. Citing the incidents of stone pelting on the yatra in Osain and Pipar, Raje said, "Congress is denying its hand in the attack on us, but everybody knows that who was behind it. They have humiliated the people of state and not me?, Raje said. Attacking Gehlot, Raje said he came twice in the assembly, but never spoke anything about the state or any of its issues related to the people of the state. Addressing another rally at Sojat, Raje countered allegations of wastage of money in the yatra. "We have brought the state out of the ignominious tag of sick state and this has brought 'gaurav' (pride). In order to celebrate this 'gaurav', we have been carrying out the 'Gaurav Yatra'." Accusing the former prime minister Manmohan Singh of being "silent" on the Nirbhaya rape case, Raje said her government had enacted a law for the first time to hang the rapists of the girls below 12 years.

Sachin Pilot a novice in politics: Vasundhara Raje

&nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi left for a two-day visit to Nepal&nbspwhere he will be attending fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit.

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Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for a two-day visit to Nepal. He will participate in 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu. <a href="https://t.co/cpiqaPDtUt">pic.twitter.com/cpiqaPDtUt</a>
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He will reportedly arrive in Kathmandu by 8:30 am (local time) via a special&nbspchartered flight.

The summit will be held from August 30 to August 31. BIMSTEC, the regional group of seven countries which lies near the Bay of Bengal, includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.&nbsp

Along with Prime Minister Modi, his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina Wazed will also arrive in the country. Reports say that PM Modi is expected to hold a meeting with Bangladesh PM&nbspon the sidelines of the event.&nbsp

During the event,&nbspPM Modi will be&nbsphanding over the hospice built in the premise of the Pashupatinath with Indian aid to Nepal.

The foundation stone to build the hospice in the Pashupatinath Temple premises was laid in 2001 and it will be handed over to Nepali Prime Minister KP Oli on Friday.

The hospice is claimed to have facilities like that of three-star hotel and the Indian Government has given assistance of 22 crore Nepali rupees. It can host about 398 pilgrims at a time, which has 82 rooms in total.

Meanwhile, as the head&nbspof states of BIMSTEC are arriving in the country heavy security measures are in effect.

Nepal's only international airport,&nbspthe Tribhuvan International Airport will be closed for about two-and-a-half hour&nbspfor the arrivals of VVIPs.

A four-layer security arrangement has been made comprising Armed Police Force, Nepal Army and National Investigation Department.

The Nepal Army is designated to take on the central charge of the security during the BIMSTEC Summit, however,&nbspPM Modi has opted to bring on the security of his own.

ANI reported that a total of 35 special commandos for the security of Prime Minister Modi have already&nbspin Kathmandu since late last week.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

&nbsp

The summit will be held from August 30 to August 31.

&nbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi left for a two-day visit to Nepal&nbspwhere he will be attending fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for a two-day visit to Nepal. He will participate in 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu. pic.twitter.com/cpiqaPDtUt — ANI (@ANI) August 30, 2018 × He will reportedly arrive in Kathmandu by 8:30 am (local time) via a special&nbspchartered flight. The summit will be held from August 30 to August 31. BIMSTEC, the regional group of seven countries which lies near the Bay of Bengal, includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Along with Prime Minister Modi, his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina Wazed will also arrive in the country. Reports say that PM Modi is expected to hold a meeting with Bangladesh PM&nbspon the sidelines of the event. During the event,&nbspPM Modi will be&nbsphanding over the hospice built in the premise of the Pashupatinath with Indian aid to Nepal. The foundation stone to build the hospice in the Pashupatinath Temple premises was laid in 2001 and it will be handed over to Nepali Prime Minister KP Oli on Friday. The hospice is claimed to have facilities like that of three-star hotel and the Indian Government has given assistance of 22 crore Nepali rupees. It can host about 398 pilgrims at a time, which has 82 rooms in total. Meanwhile, as the head&nbspof states of BIMSTEC are arriving in the country heavy security measures are in effect. Nepal's only international airport,&nbspthe Tribhuvan International Airport will be closed for about two-and-a-half hour&nbspfor the arrivals of VVIPs. A four-layer security arrangement has been made comprising Armed Police Force, Nepal Army and National Investigation Department. The Nepal Army is designated to take on the central charge of the security during the BIMSTEC Summit, however,&nbspPM Modi has opted to bring on the security of his own. ANI reported that a total of 35 special commandos for the security of Prime Minister Modi have already&nbspin Kathmandu since late last week. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi in Nepal today for 4th BIMSTEC summit

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