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Atal Bihari Vajpayee who the tenth prime minister of India died today.

Vajpayee poet-prime minister dies at 93

The BJP today postponed its two-day national executive, slated for August 18-19, in the wake of critical health condition of its veteran leader and former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

"As of now, the national executive has been postponed, and its dates will be finalised later," a party leader said.

Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day today.

As anxiety grew about the state of the 93-year-old leader's health, a stream of leaders, including Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, BJP chief Amit Shah and Union ministers Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh, visited him in the hospital.&nbsp

The former prime minister was admitted to the hospital on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, urinary tract infection, low urine output and chest congestion. PTI JTR KR JTR TIR TIR

"As of now, the national executive has been postponed, and its dates will be finalised later," a party leader said.

The BJP today postponed its two-day national executive, slated for August 18-19, in the wake of critical health condition of its veteran leader and former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. "As of now, the national executive has been postponed, and its dates will be finalised later," a party leader said. Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day today. As anxiety grew about the state of the 93-year-old leader's health, a stream of leaders, including Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, BJP chief Amit Shah and Union ministers Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh, visited him in the hospital. The former prime minister was admitted to the hospital on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, urinary tract infection, low urine output and chest congestion. PTI JTR KR JTR TIR TIR

BJP postpones its national executive

Chief Minister of India's flood-ravaged Kerala state, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Thursday, said that 256 people had died due to rain, flood and landslide in the tourist state since May 29.

Flood-hit Indian state chief says death toll crosses 250

One man was lynched and three others were critically injured by a mob in Biswanath district of Assam that suspected them to be cattle lifters, police said on Thursday.

Biswanath Superintendent of Police Diganta Kumar Choudhury told the incident took place early yesterday at Line Number 15 of Diplonga Tea Estate under the Sootea police station.

The SP said as per preliminary inquiry, the four men had allegedly stolen two cows from a person named Sankat Tanti and were fleeing in an auto van which had no number plate.

"After Tanti shouted for help, the villagers intercepted the four and started thrashing the suspected thieves. We have recovered the auto van and the two cows," Choudhury said.

Village defence party personnel called the police, which reached the spot immediately and rescued the four from the clutches of the attackers and rushed them to a&nbsp;hospital, he said.

"One among them died, while the other three persons were being treated at a private hospital in Biswanath Chariali," Choudhury said.

The dead man was identified as Deben Rajbongshi (35) and the injured as Pujan Ghatowar (40), Phulchand Sahu (25) and Bijoy Nayak (25), he added.

All the four were residents of the nearby Gereki village, whose residents claim they were pig traders.

The police registered two cases, one against the four men for allegedly lifting two cows and another against the public for beating them but no arrest has been made yet.

Cases of vigilantism and moral policing have been reported in recent months from different Assam districts.

On June 8, two friends, Nilotpal Das and Abhijeet Nath, who had gone to Kangthilangso waterfalls in Karbi Anglong and while returning their vehicle was stopped at Panjuri Kachari by a group of irate villagers, who pulled them out and lynched them following rumours that they were childlifters.

Ten days later a mob attacked a couple, who they claimed were unmarried, when they were travelling in a bike in Pukhurpur village of Goalpara district.

In yet another incident on June 23 a couple was assaulted the whole night by villagers of Jhumurmur in Nagaon district for allegedly having an illicit relationship before handing them over to police next day morning.

A mentally challenged woman was tied to a pole and tortured by village mob that suspected her to be a child lifter in a village under Thelamara police station in Sonitpur in Assam on July 1.&nbsp;

All the four were residents of the nearby Gereki village, whose residents claim they were pig traders.

One man was lynched and three others were critically injured by a mob in Biswanath district of Assam that suspected them to be cattle lifters, police said on Thursday. Biswanath Superintendent of Police Diganta Kumar Choudhury told the incident took place early yesterday at Line Number 15 of Diplonga Tea Estate under the Sootea police station. The SP said as per preliminary inquiry, the four men had allegedly stolen two cows from a person named Sankat Tanti and were fleeing in an auto van which had no number plate. "After Tanti shouted for help, the villagers intercepted the four and started thrashing the suspected thieves. We have recovered the auto van and the two cows," Choudhury said. Village defence party personnel called the police, which reached the spot immediately and rescued the four from the clutches of the attackers and rushed them to a hospital, he said. "One among them died, while the other three persons were being treated at a private hospital in Biswanath Chariali," Choudhury said. The dead man was identified as Deben Rajbongshi (35) and the injured as Pujan Ghatowar (40), Phulchand Sahu (25) and Bijoy Nayak (25), he added. All the four were residents of the nearby Gereki village, whose residents claim they were pig traders. The police registered two cases, one against the four men for allegedly lifting two cows and another against the public for beating them but no arrest has been made yet. Cases of vigilantism and moral policing have been reported in recent months from different Assam districts. On June 8, two friends, Nilotpal Das and Abhijeet Nath, who had gone to Kangthilangso waterfalls in Karbi Anglong and while returning their vehicle was stopped at Panjuri Kachari by a group of irate villagers, who pulled them out and lynched them following rumours that they were childlifters. Ten days later a mob attacked a couple, who they claimed were unmarried, when they were travelling in a bike in Pukhurpur village of Goalpara district. In yet another incident on June 23 a couple was assaulted the whole night by villagers of Jhumurmur in Nagaon district for allegedly having an illicit relationship before handing them over to police next day morning. A mentally challenged woman was tied to a pole and tortured by village mob that suspected her to be a child lifter in a village under Thelamara police station in Sonitpur in Assam on July 1.

Mob lynching: One dead, three injured on suspicion of cattle lifting

India Ratings on Thursday revised down its economic growth forecast for financial year 2018-19 by two notches to 7.2 per cent citing rising inflationary risks.

The ratings agency has also revised upwards its inflation forecast despite a likely normal rainfall this year.

"The key reasons for the downward revision (GDP forecast) is the headwinds emanating from the elevated global crude prices and government decision to fix the minimum support prices (MSPs) of all kharif crops at 1.5 times of the production cost," the agency said in a note.

The other headwinds are rising trade protectionism, a falling rupee and no visible signs of the abatement of the non-performing assets of banks, it added.

The agency has also revised upwards its inflation forecast saying "despite a likely normal rainfall in 2018, we now expect average retail and wholesale inflation in FY19 to come in at 4.6 per cent and 4.1 per cent, respectively as against 4.3 per cent and 3.4 per cent forecast earlier."

The inflation forecast is due to the pass-through of global crude prices, the massive hike in MSPs of kharif crops and the hike in house rent allowances by the states.

At a disaggregated level, the agency expects private final consumption expenditure to grow 7.6 per cent in FY19, compared with 6.6 per cent in FY18.

Growth is coming from the waning impact of note-ban, a rise in rural consumption due to two consecutive favourable monsoons and reduction in the GST rates on several items, the agency said.

"However, investment expenditure as measured by gross fixed capital formation is unlikely to improve significantly in FY19 which is expected to clip at 8 per cent this year," it added.

The agency believes government capex alone will not be sufficient to revive capex cycle, as its share in the total capex was only 11.1 per cent during fiscals 2012 and 2017.

Although it expects annual value of exports to touch USD 345 billion in FY19, crossing the peak of USD 318 billion attained in FY14, it will continue to face headwinds due to the ongoing global developments which are threatening to turn into a trade/currency wars between the US and China.

In response to the rising inflation, the Reserve Bank so far this fiscal has raised the repo rate by a cumulative 50 bps. It now expects CPI inflation for the second half to be 4.8 per cent, 10 bps higher than its earlier projection.

The agency does not expect any more hikes in FY19, though, and therefore expects the benchmark 10-year G-sec to be in the range of 7.8-7.9 per cent by Macy 2019.

It expects the Centre to meet its fiscal deficit target at 3.3 per cent of GDP in FY19. The current account deficit, according to the agency, is likely to touch USD 71.1 billion or 2.6 per cent of GDP) from USD 48.7 billion or 1.9 per cent in FY18 due to the widening trade gap.

Volatile crude prices, waning portfolio inflows, normalisation of the monetary policy in the advanced economies and a likely USD 25 billion mobilisation from NRIs will guide the rupee level, according to the agency, which sees it averaging at Rs 68.40 to the US dollar through the reminder of the current fiscal year.&nbsp

The ratings agency has also revised upwards its inflation forecast despite a likely normal rainfall this year.

India Ratings on Thursday revised down its economic growth forecast for financial year 2018-19 by two notches to 7.2 per cent citing rising inflationary risks. The ratings agency has also revised upwards its inflation forecast despite a likely normal rainfall this year. "The key reasons for the downward revision (GDP forecast) is the headwinds emanating from the elevated global crude prices and government decision to fix the minimum support prices (MSPs) of all kharif crops at 1.5 times of the production cost," the agency said in a note. The other headwinds are rising trade protectionism, a falling rupee and no visible signs of the abatement of the non-performing assets of banks, it added. The agency has also revised upwards its inflation forecast saying "despite a likely normal rainfall in 2018, we now expect average retail and wholesale inflation in FY19 to come in at 4.6 per cent and 4.1 per cent, respectively as against 4.3 per cent and 3.4 per cent forecast earlier." The inflation forecast is due to the pass-through of global crude prices, the massive hike in MSPs of kharif crops and the hike in house rent allowances by the states. At a disaggregated level, the agency expects private final consumption expenditure to grow 7.6 per cent in FY19, compared with 6.6 per cent in FY18. Growth is coming from the waning impact of note-ban, a rise in rural consumption due to two consecutive favourable monsoons and reduction in the GST rates on several items, the agency said. "However, investment expenditure as measured by gross fixed capital formation is unlikely to improve significantly in FY19 which is expected to clip at 8 per cent this year," it added. The agency believes government capex alone will not be sufficient to revive capex cycle, as its share in the total capex was only 11.1 per cent during fiscals 2012 and 2017. Although it expects annual value of exports to touch USD 345 billion in FY19, crossing the peak of USD 318 billion attained in FY14, it will continue to face headwinds due to the ongoing global developments which are threatening to turn into a trade/currency wars between the US and China. In response to the rising inflation, the Reserve Bank so far this fiscal has raised the repo rate by a cumulative 50 bps. It now expects CPI inflation for the second half to be 4.8 per cent, 10 bps higher than its earlier projection. The agency does not expect any more hikes in FY19, though, and therefore expects the benchmark 10-year G-sec to be in the range of 7.8-7.9 per cent by Macy 2019. It expects the Centre to meet its fiscal deficit target at 3.3 per cent of GDP in FY19. The current account deficit, according to the agency, is likely to touch USD 71.1 billion or 2.6 per cent of GDP) from USD 48.7 billion or 1.9 per cent in FY18 due to the widening trade gap. Volatile crude prices, waning portfolio inflows, normalisation of the monetary policy in the advanced economies and a likely USD 25 billion mobilisation from NRIs will guide the rupee level, according to the agency, which sees it averaging at Rs 68.40 to the US dollar through the reminder of the current fiscal year.

India Ratings pegs down FY19 GDP forecast to 7.2% on inflation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and several other leaders on Thursday visited AIIMS to enquire about the health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, his second visit in less than 24 hours.

The prime minister was at the hospital for a little over 45 minutes. Modi had visited the hospital yesterday evening also to enquire about Vajpayee's condition.

As anxiety grew about the state of the 93-year-old leader's health, a stream of leaders, including Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Union ministers Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh, visited the hospital.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan was also at the hospital.&nbsp; 
Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day.&nbsp;

 
LEADERS PRAY FOR RECOVERY &nbsp;

A number of leaders cutting across party lines prayed for the recovery of the former prime minister.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves from AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVaajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVaajpayee</a> is admitted. He is on life support system. <a href="https://t.co/q833ORbHpX">pic.twitter.com/q833ORbHpX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030020733689311232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Senior BJP leaders L K Advani, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, Rajnath Singh, JP Nadda, party president Amit Shah, Shahnawaj Hussain, Manoj Tiwari, Anurag Thakur, Vijay Goyal, Udit Rai, Prakash Javedkar, Harsh Vardhan visited him at the hospital.

Leaders from other political parties, including Congress's Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ram Vilas Paswan from Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), NC's Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia, visited the premier health institute.

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Delhi: BJP President Amit Shah leaves from AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVaajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVaajpayee</a> is admitted. He is on life support system. <a href="https://t.co/BLPyoWQ5td">pic.twitter.com/BLPyoWQ5td</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030034505698967552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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BJP MP Udit Raj's maintained that his condition remains the same. "We pray for his fast recovery. Atalji is a very big personality. He respects every section of society," he said.&nbsp;

Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day.

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Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi arrives at AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVaajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVaajpayee</a> is admitted. He is on life support system. <a href="https://t.co/fP7Gq9Hdrv">pic.twitter.com/fP7Gq9Hdrv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030035297327767552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

A number of leaders cutting across party lines prayed for the recovery of the former prime minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and several other leaders on Thursday visited AIIMS to enquire about the health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, his second visit in less than 24 hours. The prime minister was at the hospital for a little over 45 minutes. Modi had visited the hospital yesterday evening also to enquire about Vajpayee's condition. As anxiety grew about the state of the 93-year-old leader's health, a stream of leaders, including Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Union ministers Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh, visited the hospital. Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan was also at the hospital. Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day. LEADERS PRAY FOR RECOVERY A number of leaders cutting across party lines prayed for the recovery of the former prime minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves from AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM #AtalBihariVaajpayee is admitted. He is on life support system. pic.twitter.com/q833ORbHpX — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × Senior BJP leaders L K Advani, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, Rajnath Singh, JP Nadda, party president Amit Shah, Shahnawaj Hussain, Manoj Tiwari, Anurag Thakur, Vijay Goyal, Udit Rai, Prakash Javedkar, Harsh Vardhan visited him at the hospital. Leaders from other political parties, including Congress's Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ram Vilas Paswan from Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), NC's Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia, visited the premier health institute. Delhi: BJP President Amit Shah leaves from AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM #AtalBihariVaajpayee is admitted. He is on life support system. pic.twitter.com/BLPyoWQ5td — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × BJP MP Udit Raj's maintained that his condition remains the same. "We pray for his fast recovery. Atalji is a very big personality. He respects every section of society," he said. Vajpayee is battling for life and remains on advanced life support at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences for the second day. Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi arrives at AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) where former PM #AtalBihariVaajpayee is admitted. He is on life support system. pic.twitter.com/fP7Gq9Hdrv — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × (With PTI inputs)

Modi, Rahul, Amit Shah visit AIIMS to enquire about Vajpayee's health

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday informed that the situation prevailing in the state is very serious as nearly all villages are flood affected.

The Chief Minister also informed that more helicopters will be deployed soon for the rescue operation in flood-hit Kerala.

"Very serious situation is prevailing in the state as nearly all villages are flood affected. I had a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister, Home Minister and Defence Minister, they have offered all support. More helicopters to be deployed soon," Vijayan said.

Vijayan further informed that the water level in the Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise and people living within a one kilometre-radius must rehabilitate immediately.

"Alert: the water-level in both Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise. People in the one-kilometre radius of Chalakudy, and those inside half kilometre radius of Aluva, must evacuate the place immediately," the Chief Minister tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Rescue operations held by Coast Guard helicopters over Ernakulam, earlier today. 132 people have been rescued from Thrissur, Aluva & Perumbavoor by Coast Guard helicopters today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/JqJ0dsbSPs">pic.twitter.com/JqJ0dsbSPs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030037999764090880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kerala has been witnessing incessant rains since past few days, causing flooding and landslide in the state. So far, <a href="wionews.com/india-news/keralas-situation-is-grave-says-supreme-court-army-navy-airforce-chiefs-meet-as-death-toll-mounts-to-75-159558">at least 79 people have lost their lives in the havoc</a>.

As the flood situation is getting worse by the day, the Centre has launched massive rescue and relief operations in the state.

Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been asked to mobilise additional manpower, boats and helicopters to scale up the rescue and relief operations. Food packets and drinking water are also being rushed.

Twelve more teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) - six from Delhi and six from Gandhinagar - are being airlifted to Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. 18 teams are already deployed in the state.

Earlier today, NDRF teams evacuated 926 persons to a safer place at Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Alappuzha. Army also built a 35-feet long bridge and rescued around 100 people including children and senior citizens from Malampuzha's Valiyakadu village.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Alert: the water-level in both Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise. People in 1km radius of Chalakudy, and those inside ½ km of radius of Aluva, must evacuate the place immediately. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods2018</a>
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala/status/1029999059866537985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Coast Guard has also mobilised ten teams to assist District Disaster Management Authority in evacuating people from the flood-affected areas.

The Coast Guard relief teams have been placed at Pathanamthitta, Munanbam, Aranmula, Idukki, Ferok-Calicut, and Allepy respectively whereas two relief teams each have been dispatched for Aluva and Chengannur. The teams are equipped with Gemini Boats for evacuating the stranded people especially women, children and senior citizens.

Meanwhile, Indo-Tibetan Border Police jawans rescued senior citizens in Arattupuzha village of Thrissur district.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister to discuss flood situation in the state.&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister to discuss flood situation in the state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday informed that the situation prevailing in the state is very serious as nearly all villages are flood affected. The Chief Minister also informed that more helicopters will be deployed soon for the rescue operation in flood-hit Kerala. "Very serious situation is prevailing in the state as nearly all villages are flood affected. I had a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister, Home Minister and Defence Minister, they have offered all support. More helicopters to be deployed soon," Vijayan said. Vijayan further informed that the water level in the Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise and people living within a one kilometre-radius must rehabilitate immediately. "Alert: the water-level in both Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise. People in the one-kilometre radius of Chalakudy, and those inside half kilometre radius of Aluva, must evacuate the place immediately," the Chief Minister tweeted. #WATCH: Rescue operations held by Coast Guard helicopters over Ernakulam, earlier today. 132 people have been rescued from Thrissur, Aluva & Perumbavoor by Coast Guard helicopters today. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/JqJ0dsbSPs — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × Kerala has been witnessing incessant rains since past few days, causing flooding and landslide in the state. So far, at least 79 people have lost their lives in the havoc. As the flood situation is getting worse by the day, the Centre has launched massive rescue and relief operations in the state. Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been asked to mobilise additional manpower, boats and helicopters to scale up the rescue and relief operations. Food packets and drinking water are also being rushed. Twelve more teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) - six from Delhi and six from Gandhinagar - are being airlifted to Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. 18 teams are already deployed in the state. Earlier today, NDRF teams evacuated 926 persons to a safer place at Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Alappuzha. Army also built a 35-feet long bridge and rescued around 100 people including children and senior citizens from Malampuzha's Valiyakadu village. Alert: the water-level in both Periyar and Chalakudy rivers will rise. People in 1km radius of Chalakudy, and those inside ½ km of radius of Aluva, must evacuate the place immediately. #KeralaFloods2018 — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 16, 2018 × The Indian Coast Guard has also mobilised ten teams to assist District Disaster Management Authority in evacuating people from the flood-affected areas. The Coast Guard relief teams have been placed at Pathanamthitta, Munanbam, Aranmula, Idukki, Ferok-Calicut, and Allepy respectively whereas two relief teams each have been dispatched for Aluva and Chengannur. The teams are equipped with Gemini Boats for evacuating the stranded people especially women, children and senior citizens. Meanwhile, Indo-Tibetan Border Police jawans rescued senior citizens in Arattupuzha village of Thrissur district. Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister to discuss flood situation in the state.

'Must evacuate immediately,' Kerala CM directs as water level expected to rise further

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday tweeted that he&nbspspoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and requested him to increase the deployment of Army and Navy in flood-hit Kerala and give special financial assistance to the state.

Gandhi said that he spoke to PM over phone and noted that the tragedy is unparalleled in Kerala's history and the state is in "great pain".

Expressing concern over the flood situation in Kerala, he took to Twitter to make a fervent appeal to people for help by contributing to the chief minister's relief fund.

He tagged the link of the chief minister's relief fund to his tweet asking people to contribute, and said "it is time to step up and help".

"Kerala is in great pain. I spoke to PM and requested him to massively increase deployment of the Army and Navy. I also said that it is critical that he gives the state special financial assistance as this is a tragedy without parallel in Kerala's history," he said on Twitter.

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Kerala is in great pain. I spoke to PM and requested him to massively increase deployment of the Army & Navy. I also said that it is critical that he gives the state special financial assistance as this is a tragedy without parallel in Kerala’s history. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaStandsWithKerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaStandsWithKerala</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1029988406238097409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

"I am deeply concerned for the people of #Kerala tonight, as the flood waters rise. Thousands are stranded. Relief camps full. Many have lost their loved ones. It's time to step up & help. Please contribute generously to the CM's relief fund (sic)," he had in another tweet.

According to reports, the death toll in the current phase of monsoon fury in the southern state has touched 79.

Rise in flood waters in Periyar River due to the rains and opening of all shutters of all major dams including Mullaperiyar, Cheruthoni, part of Idukki reservoir, and Idamalayar, have severely affected lives of people in downstream areas.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan once again called up Prime Minister Modi and apprised him of the flood situation in the state.

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I am deeply concerned for the people of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> tonight, as the flood waters rise. Thousands are stranded. Relief camps full. Many have lost their loved ones. It’s time to step up & help. Please contribute generously to the CM’s relief fund. Use this link: <a href="https://t.co/GNUlGQbBZv">https://t.co/GNUlGQbBZv</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gm5QGifSms">pic.twitter.com/Gm5QGifSms</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1029813405740359682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The state has also sought the services of additional Army personnel and helicopters and the prime minister has assured all help, Vijayan said.

Kochi Metro suspended operations this morning after flood waters entered the Muttom yard near Aluva and train services have been affected in various parts of the state with the cancellation of many passenger trains and partial cancellation of some long distance train.&nbsp

Gandhi spoke to the prime minister over phone and announced it on Twitter

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday tweeted that he&nbspspoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and requested him to increase the deployment of Army and Navy in flood-hit Kerala and give special financial assistance to the state. Gandhi said that he spoke to PM over phone and noted that the tragedy is unparalleled in Kerala's history and the state is in "great pain". Expressing concern over the flood situation in Kerala, he took to Twitter to make a fervent appeal to people for help by contributing to the chief minister's relief fund. He tagged the link of the chief minister's relief fund to his tweet asking people to contribute, and said "it is time to step up and help". "Kerala is in great pain. I spoke to PM and requested him to massively increase deployment of the Army and Navy. I also said that it is critical that he gives the state special financial assistance as this is a tragedy without parallel in Kerala's history," he said on Twitter. Kerala is in great pain. I spoke to PM and requested him to massively increase deployment of the Army & Navy. I also said that it is critical that he gives the state special financial assistance as this is a tragedy without parallel in Kerala’s history. #IndiaStandsWithKerala — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 16, 2018 × "I am deeply concerned for the people of #Kerala tonight, as the flood waters rise. Thousands are stranded. Relief camps full. Many have lost their loved ones. It's time to step up & help. Please contribute generously to the CM's relief fund (sic)," he had in another tweet. According to reports, the death toll in the current phase of monsoon fury in the southern state has touched 79. Rise in flood waters in Periyar River due to the rains and opening of all shutters of all major dams including Mullaperiyar, Cheruthoni, part of Idukki reservoir, and Idamalayar, have severely affected lives of people in downstream areas. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan once again called up Prime Minister Modi and apprised him of the flood situation in the state. I am deeply concerned for the people of #Kerala tonight, as the flood waters rise. Thousands are stranded. Relief camps full. Many have lost their loved ones. It’s time to step up & help. Please contribute generously to the CM’s relief fund. Use this link: https://t.co/GNUlGQbBZv pic.twitter.com/Gm5QGifSms — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 15, 2018 × The state has also sought the services of additional Army personnel and helicopters and the prime minister has assured all help, Vijayan said. Kochi Metro suspended operations this morning after flood waters entered the Muttom yard near Aluva and train services have been affected in various parts of the state with the cancellation of many passenger trains and partial cancellation of some long distance train.

Rahul talks to PM, seeks more Army, Navy personnel, funds in flood-hit Kerala

The Supreme Court has asked views of all stakeholders including &nbsp;All Assam Students Union, All Assam Minority Students Union on Centre's sop on Assam's National Register of Citizens(NRC) issue.

India's top court has set August 20th as the date for claims and objection forms to be made available to the public on the NRC row.&nbsp;

The court has directed the NRC coordinator to place before it data of district-wise percentage of the population excluded from final draft of NRC.

The court said that receipt of claim and objection forms from the public on Assam NRC will commence on August 30th.

The NRC coordinator will make available copies of draft NRC at all panchayat offices so that the public can access it easily.&nbsp;

India's top court has set August 20th as the date for claims and objection forms to be made available to the public on the NRC row.

The Supreme Court has asked views of all stakeholders including All Assam Students Union, All Assam Minority Students Union on Centre's sop on Assam's National Register of Citizens(NRC) issue. India's top court has set August 20th as the date for claims and objection forms to be made available to the public on the NRC row. The court has directed the NRC coordinator to place before it data of district-wise percentage of the population excluded from final draft of NRC. The court said that receipt of claim and objection forms from the public on Assam NRC will commence on August 30th. The NRC coordinator will make available copies of draft NRC at all panchayat offices so that the public can access it easily.

Present percentage of population excluded from NRC draft: SC to NRC coordinator

Narendra Modi’s speech from the rampart of the Red Fort was a crisply framed election speech. His main focus throughout the speech remained on women and poor. 
&nbsp; 
In fact, he becomes the first Prime Minister to endorse the death penalty when he spoke in the context of the crime against women. From representation in the Cabinet to Supreme Court, PM Modi focused on women as a category. It for this reason he specifically announced a permanent commission for women in para-military forces. This is not an experiment for Modi. He created a constituency of women for his party in Gujarat.

PM Modi ensured law and order and petty crime against women is severely&nbsp;dealt, creating a separate vote block for him. If it works out for him in the election then it would be first in India. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;Another focus for the Prime Minister remained the poor outreach scheme. The&nbsp;Ujjawala scheme made a difference for BJP’s fortune in Uttar Pradesh elections. Even the Opposition was surprised that a humble LPG scheme for poor women broke into the Muslim and Dalit vote bank. It is for this reason, Opposition must fret over the Ayushman scheme which is targeted to cover 50 crore Indians.

In 2009, Congress immensely benefited from the farm loan waiver and Congress ended up getting 21 seats in Uttar Pradesh. It is for this very reason Prime Minister Modi recalled all the subsidy related schemes his government had launched. &nbsp;

The Third leg of his speech was focused on the middle class. Though he did not use the word middle class but the fact that he described&nbsp;taxpayers contributors in India’s growth story remains significant. He used the word Nav Yug akin to political renaissance post the 2014 elections. For this reason, Modi kept on comparing 2013 with 2018. The irony was that decent man Manmohan Singh was listening to the critique of his own government from his successor from the same rampart of the fort from where he gave 10 long speeches. 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister only acknowledged four leaders, carefully chosen for strong messaging -- Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya and Tamil poet Subramanium Bharti. Both Ambedkar and Gandhi are routinely mentioned in PM’s speeches. Ambedkar for BJP’s commitment towards Dalits and Gandhi for his own commitment towards the nation. Deen Dayal Upadhaya is a BJP-RSS icon and Subramanium Bharti for the fact that Tamil Nadu is going through a massive churn and PM does not want to leave any stone unturned to enter the Tamil arena. He knows that he would require numbers from the state in case BJP's performance dips in saturated states. 
&nbsp; 
It was a political speech targeting his constituency. Though he mentioned many things, but the focus remained on the&nbsp;poor, women and the&nbsp;middle class. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It was a political speech targeting his constituency. Though he mentioned many things, but the focus remained on the poor, women and the middle class.

Narendra Modi’s speech from the rampart of the Red Fort was a crisply framed election speech. His main focus throughout the speech remained on women and poor. In fact, he becomes the first Prime Minister to endorse the death penalty when he spoke in the context of the crime against women. From representation in the Cabinet to Supreme Court, PM Modi focused on women as a category. It for this reason he specifically announced a permanent commission for women in para-military forces. This is not an experiment for Modi. He created a constituency of women for his party in Gujarat. PM Modi ensured law and order and petty crime against women is severely dealt, creating a separate vote block for him. If it works out for him in the election then it would be first in India. Another focus for the Prime Minister remained the poor outreach scheme. The Ujjawala scheme made a difference for BJP’s fortune in Uttar Pradesh elections. Even the Opposition was surprised that a humble LPG scheme for poor women broke into the Muslim and Dalit vote bank. It is for this reason, Opposition must fret over the Ayushman scheme which is targeted to cover 50 crore Indians. In 2009, Congress immensely benefited from the farm loan waiver and Congress ended up getting 21 seats in Uttar Pradesh. It is for this very reason Prime Minister Modi recalled all the subsidy related schemes his government had launched. The Third leg of his speech was focused on the middle class. Though he did not use the word middle class but the fact that he described taxpayers contributors in India’s growth story remains significant. He used the word Nav Yug akin to political renaissance post the 2014 elections. For this reason, Modi kept on comparing 2013 with 2018. The irony was that decent man Manmohan Singh was listening to the critique of his own government from his successor from the same rampart of the fort from where he gave 10 long speeches. Prime Minister only acknowledged four leaders, carefully chosen for strong messaging -- Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya and Tamil poet Subramanium Bharti. Both Ambedkar and Gandhi are routinely mentioned in PM’s speeches. Ambedkar for BJP’s commitment towards Dalits and Gandhi for his own commitment towards the nation. Deen Dayal Upadhaya is a BJP-RSS icon and Subramanium Bharti for the fact that Tamil Nadu is going through a massive churn and PM does not want to leave any stone unturned to enter the Tamil arena. He knows that he would require numbers from the state in case BJP's performance dips in saturated states. It was a political speech targeting his constituency. Though he mentioned many things, but the focus remained on the poor, women and the middle class.

PM Modi's speech from Red Fort focussed on women as political constituency

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who turned 50 today, appealed to the AAP volunteers and his followers to avoid birthday celebrations in view of deteriorating health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The chief minister along with his deputy Manish Sisodia visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) this morning to inquire about Vajpayee’s health. “Sad to hear about Atalji’s health. I pray to God for his fast recovery,” he tweeted.

&nbsp;The media advisor to the chief minister, Nagender Sharma, said he has requested party volunteers and well-wishers to avoid his birthday celebration and refrain from paying a visit at his residence for this. “Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal requests party volunteers & well-wishers not to celebrate his birthday in view of deteriorating health condition of former Prime Minister Sh Atal Behari Vajpayee Ji. Volunteers are requested to refrain from visiting CM residence (sic),” Sharma tweeted.

The condition of Vajpayee remains critical and he continues to be on an advanced life-support system, AIIMS said in a statement today. The 93-year-old BJP veteran was admitted to the hospital here on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, urinary tract infection, low urine output and chest congestion.

The chief minister along with his deputy Manish Sisodia visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) this morning to enquire about Vajpayee's health.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who turned 50 today, appealed to the AAP volunteers and his followers to avoid birthday celebrations in view of deteriorating health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The chief minister along with his deputy Manish Sisodia visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) this morning to inquire about Vajpayee’s health. “Sad to hear about Atalji’s health. I pray to God for his fast recovery,” he tweeted. The media advisor to the chief minister, Nagender Sharma, said he has requested party volunteers and well-wishers to avoid his birthday celebration and refrain from paying a visit at his residence for this. “Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal requests party volunteers & well-wishers not to celebrate his birthday in view of deteriorating health condition of former Prime Minister Sh Atal Behari Vajpayee Ji. Volunteers are requested to refrain from visiting CM residence (sic),” Sharma tweeted. The condition of Vajpayee remains critical and he continues to be on an advanced life-support system, AIIMS said in a statement today. The 93-year-old BJP veteran was admitted to the hospital here on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, urinary tract infection, low urine output and chest congestion.

Vajpayee’s condition critical: Kejriwal urges AAP to not celebrate his birthday

The Uttar Pradesh government has approached the Centre for its approval to rename the airports in Bareilly, Kanpur and Agra, a move that comes close on the heels of rechristening the iconic Mughalsarai Railway Station in the state after RSS thinker Deendayal Upadhyay.

Since all the three are defence airports, the state government and the Airports Authority of India are in the process of consultations at various levels to facilitate flyers under the regional connectivity scheme, an official spokesman said today.

According to a proposal from the state civil aviation department, the Bareilly airport is to be named ‘Nath Nagri’, which is believed to be an ancient name of the city for its history of having ardent worshippers of Lord Shiva.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who belongs to the Nath sect, had earlier renamed the civil terminals of IAF’s Gorakhpur airport.

The civil terminal of Gorakhpur airport was named after Maha Yogi Gorakhnath, founder of ‘Nath Pant’ (monastic movement). The chief minister is the ‘Mahant’ (priest) of Gorakhnath temple.

UP Civil Aviation Minister Nand Gopal Nandi said renaming of the three airports was long awaited. “We have reached out to the Centre to get the airports renamed. A meeting with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation is expected soon,” he said.

The proposal speaks about Bareilly in great detail. It says that the city is surrounded on all sides by as many as seven Lord Shiva temples–Alakhnath, Trivatinath, Marhinath, Dhopeshwarnath, Vankhandinath, Tapeshwarnath and Pashupatinath.

Kanpur’s Chakeri airport is proposed to be named after freedom fighter Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi. The proposal says that Kanpur was earlier known as Kanha Pur and was founded by Sachendi King Hindu Singh.

The Agra airport is proposed to be named after RSS thinker Deendayal Upadhyay.

According to a proposal from the state civil aviation department, the Bareilly airport is to be named 'Nath Nagri', which is believed to be an ancient name of the city for its history of having ardent worshippers of Lord Shiva.

The Uttar Pradesh government has approached the Centre for its approval to rename the airports in Bareilly, Kanpur and Agra, a move that comes close on the heels of rechristening the iconic Mughalsarai Railway Station in the state after RSS thinker Deendayal Upadhyay. Since all the three are defence airports, the state government and the Airports Authority of India are in the process of consultations at various levels to facilitate flyers under the regional connectivity scheme, an official spokesman said today. According to a proposal from the state civil aviation department, the Bareilly airport is to be named ‘Nath Nagri’, which is believed to be an ancient name of the city for its history of having ardent worshippers of Lord Shiva. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who belongs to the Nath sect, had earlier renamed the civil terminals of IAF’s Gorakhpur airport. The civil terminal of Gorakhpur airport was named after Maha Yogi Gorakhnath, founder of ‘Nath Pant’ (monastic movement). The chief minister is the ‘Mahant’ (priest) of Gorakhnath temple. UP Civil Aviation Minister Nand Gopal Nandi said renaming of the three airports was long awaited. “We have reached out to the Centre to get the airports renamed. A meeting with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation is expected soon,” he said. The proposal speaks about Bareilly in great detail. It says that the city is surrounded on all sides by as many as seven Lord Shiva temples–Alakhnath, Trivatinath, Marhinath, Dhopeshwarnath, Vankhandinath, Tapeshwarnath and Pashupatinath. Kanpur’s Chakeri airport is proposed to be named after freedom fighter Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi. The proposal says that Kanpur was earlier known as Kanha Pur and was founded by Sachendi King Hindu Singh. The Agra airport is proposed to be named after RSS thinker Deendayal Upadhyay.

UP CM Adityanath urges Centre to rename Bareilly, Kanpur, Agra airports

A government school teacher, who was involved in NRC exercise in Assam, was detained after it came to the fore that he was declared an illegal Bangladeshi migrant by the Gauhati High Court in June, the police said today.

Khairul Islam was earlier declared an infiltrator by the Foreigners Tribunal, Morigaon. He was detained last night near Moirabari in Morigaon district, Superintendent of Police Swapnanil Deka said.

The district administration, which had engaged Islam in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) update work, had on August 13 removed him from the job, Morigaon Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hemen Das said.

Following receipt of the Gauhati High Court judgement upholding the verdict of the Foreigner's Tribunal, Morigaon, police launched an operation to track down Khairul and detained him near Moirabari village, the SP said.

According to laid down procedure, Islam will be sent to Foreigners Detention Camp in Goalpara district this afternoon, Deka said.

Islam, who was a teacher in the Khandapukhuri Lower primary school in the district, was engaged by the Morigaon district administration in Kolmoubari NRC Seva Kendra (NSK) under Mikirbheta police station. He was one among over 40,000 government employees drawn from different departments for NRC work across the state, official sources said.

Several organisations, including the Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad, the Krisak Mukti Sangram Samiti, the All Koch Rajbongshi Students Union, had earlier expressed concern over the teacher's inclusion in the NRC work.

On August 13 the DC had removed Islam from NRC work and had said, "It has come to the notice of the district administration of Morigaon regarding engagement in NRC update process of a teacher who has been declared as a foreigner by the Foreigners Tribunal, Morigaon."

"In this context it is informed that the said person is a government teacher and has only been assisting NRC update work. He is not entitled to take any decision on inclusion or exclusion of any applicant", the DC said in a statement, adding, "As a matter of abundant caution and considering the sensitivities involved, he has been relieved from NRC work immediately."

The teacher was declared a Bangladeshi citizen by the Foreigners Tribunal Morigaon in 2015. He had entered Assam after March 25, 1971 (the cut-off year as per the Assam Accord). The Gauhati High Court upheld the verdict of the Foreigners Tribunal in June this year.

According to laid down procedure, Islam will be sent to Foreigners Detention Camp in Goalpara district this afternoon, Deka said.

A government school teacher, who was involved in NRC exercise in Assam, was detained after it came to the fore that he was declared an illegal Bangladeshi migrant by the Gauhati High Court in June, the police said today. Khairul Islam was earlier declared an infiltrator by the Foreigners Tribunal, Morigaon. He was detained last night near Moirabari in Morigaon district, Superintendent of Police Swapnanil Deka said. The district administration, which had engaged Islam in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) update work, had on August 13 removed him from the job, Morigaon Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hemen Das said. Following receipt of the Gauhati High Court judgement upholding the verdict of the Foreigner's Tribunal, Morigaon, police launched an operation to track down Khairul and detained him near Moirabari village, the SP said. According to laid down procedure, Islam will be sent to Foreigners Detention Camp in Goalpara district this afternoon, Deka said. Islam, who was a teacher in the Khandapukhuri Lower primary school in the district, was engaged by the Morigaon district administration in Kolmoubari NRC Seva Kendra (NSK) under Mikirbheta police station. He was one among over 40,000 government employees drawn from different departments for NRC work across the state, official sources said. Several organisations, including the Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad, the Krisak Mukti Sangram Samiti, the All Koch Rajbongshi Students Union, had earlier expressed concern over the teacher's inclusion in the NRC work. On August 13 the DC had removed Islam from NRC work and had said, "It has come to the notice of the district administration of Morigaon regarding engagement in NRC update process of a teacher who has been declared as a foreigner by the Foreigners Tribunal, Morigaon." "In this context it is informed that the said person is a government teacher and has only been assisting NRC update work. He is not entitled to take any decision on inclusion or exclusion of any applicant", the DC said in a statement, adding, "As a matter of abundant caution and considering the sensitivities involved, he has been relieved from NRC work immediately." The teacher was declared a Bangladeshi citizen by the Foreigners Tribunal Morigaon in 2015. He had entered Assam after March 25, 1971 (the cut-off year as per the Assam Accord). The Gauhati High Court upheld the verdict of the Foreigners Tribunal in June this year.

Govt teacher updating NRC detained after being declared illegal Bangladesh migrant

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's condition <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-pm-atal-bihari-vajpayees-condition-remains-critical-put-on-life-support-159460">remains critical</a> and he is on life support, Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences said Thursday.&nbsp;

"Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's condition continues to remain the same. He is critical and on life support systems," AIIMS said in a statement. &nbsp;

Vajpayee has been in hospital for close to nine weeks now.&nbsp;

He was admitted to AIIMS on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, a urinary tract infection, low urine output, and chest congestion.&nbsp;

He was visited in hospital Thursday morning by his contemporary and former deputy prime minister LK Advani, and Prime Minister Modi. This was Modi's second visit. He had also visited Vajpayee on Wednesday evening.&nbsp;

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Delhi: PM Narendra Modi arrives at AIIMS where <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVaajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVaajpayee</a> is admitted. The former PM is on life support system <a href="https://t.co/JnT67YIEc9">pic.twitter.com/JnT67YIEc9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030008152429752321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A number of other leaders have also visited AIIMS or plan to do so:&nbsp;

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Senior BJP leader LK Advani and daughter Pratibha Advani arrive at All India Institute of Medical Sciences where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system <a href="https://t.co/QgeG9isWDg">pic.twitter.com/QgeG9isWDg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1029952823419592706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrives at All India Institute of Medical Sciences where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system <a href="https://t.co/X4YOLvwInm">pic.twitter.com/X4YOLvwInm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1029951644337885186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: Congress President Rahul Gandhi to visit AIIMS where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system (File pics) <a href="https://t.co/yzCE3yM1Ye">pic.twitter.com/yzCE3yM1Ye</a>
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I have cancelled my work to visit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> today. I got chance to work with him. He is a statesman like figure. We supported him when his govt was falling. His pattern of work was different & not like present politics: Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal CM <a href="https://t.co/CmdFV0aJ0V">pic.twitter.com/CmdFV0aJ0V</a>
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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to visit All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/nxsoqIbq6L">pic.twitter.com/nxsoqIbq6L</a>
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Vajpayee, a diabetic, has only one functional kidney. He had suffered a stroke in 2009 that weakened his cognitive abilities. Subsequently, he developed dementia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Vajpayee has been in hospital for close to nine weeks now. He was admitted to AIIMS on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, a urinary tract infection, low urine output, and chest congestion.

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's condition remains critical and he is on life support, Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences said Thursday. "Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's condition continues to remain the same. He is critical and on life support systems," AIIMS said in a statement. Vajpayee has been in hospital for close to nine weeks now. He was admitted to AIIMS on June 11 with a kidney tract infection, a urinary tract infection, low urine output, and chest congestion. He was visited in hospital Thursday morning by his contemporary and former deputy prime minister LK Advani, and Prime Minister Modi. This was Modi's second visit. He had also visited Vajpayee on Wednesday evening. Delhi: PM Narendra Modi arrives at AIIMS where #AtalBihariVaajpayee is admitted. The former PM is on life support system pic.twitter.com/JnT67YIEc9 — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × A number of other leaders have also visited AIIMS or plan to do so: Senior BJP leader LK Advani and daughter Pratibha Advani arrive at All India Institute of Medical Sciences where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system pic.twitter.com/QgeG9isWDg — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × #Delhi: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrives at All India Institute of Medical Sciences where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system pic.twitter.com/X4YOLvwInm — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × #Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi to visit AIIMS where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system (File pics) pic.twitter.com/yzCE3yM1Ye — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × I have cancelled my work to visit #AtalBihariVajpayee today. I got chance to work with him. He is a statesman like figure. We supported him when his govt was falling. His pattern of work was different & not like present politics: Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal CM pic.twitter.com/CmdFV0aJ0V — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to visit All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is admitted. Vajpayee’s condition is critical & he is on life support system. #Delhi (file pic) pic.twitter.com/nxsoqIbq6L — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2018 × Vajpayee, a diabetic, has only one functional kidney. He had suffered a stroke in 2009 that weakened his cognitive abilities. Subsequently, he developed dementia. (With inputs from PTI)

Vajpayee's condition remains the same, he is critical and on life support: AIIMS

Scores of political leaders visited All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Thursday morning to inquire about the health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah, senior BJP leader LK Advani and daughter Pratibha Advani are among others who visited the hospital.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal are also expected to visit AIIMS later in the day.

Vajpayee, whose health condition is critical, was put on life support system on Wednesday. The 93-year-old was admitted to AIIMS on June 11 after complaints of urinary tract infection, low urine output, and chest congestion.

Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited AIIMS to enquire about Vajpayee's health.

Vajpayee, whose health condition is critical, was put on life support system on Wednesday.

Scores of political leaders visited All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Thursday morning to inquire about the health condition of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah, senior BJP leader LK Advani and daughter Pratibha Advani are among others who visited the hospital. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal are also expected to visit AIIMS later in the day. Vajpayee, whose health condition is critical, was put on life support system on Wednesday. The 93-year-old was admitted to AIIMS on June 11 after complaints of urinary tract infection, low urine output, and chest congestion. Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited AIIMS to enquire about Vajpayee's health.

Political leaders visit AIIMS to enquire about Vajpayee's health

The Centre today told the Supreme Court that the creamy layer concept cannot be applied to deny benefits of quota in promotions to government employees of SC/ST community as the stigma of caste and backwardness is still attached to them. 
&nbsp &nbsp&nbsp 
Attorney General K K Venugopal told a five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra that there is no judgment which says that affluent people of the SC/ST community can be denied quota benefits by applying creamy layer concept. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
Venugopal was responding to a question whether the creamy layer concept can be applied to exclude persons who have come up to ensure that the backward among the SC/ST communities can reap the benefits of quota. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The top law officer said that even if some people of the community have come up, the stigma of caste and backwardness is still attached to them. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
He also said that the question of excluding a certain class of SC/ST has to be decided by the President and the Parliament and this exercise is not open to the judiciary. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
"They have to marry from their own caste. Even a well-off person of SC/ST community cannot marry from a higher caste. The fact that some persons have become affluent does not take away the imprint of caste and backwardness. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The top law officer termed the discriminatory caste system as a misfortune of the country. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
Advancing of arguments is still continuing. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The bench also comprises justices Kurian Joseph, R F Nariman, Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Indu Malhotra.

Earlier on August 3, the apex court had asked the Centre as to why states have not come forward with any quantifiable data to decide the inadequacy of representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in government services even 12 years after its verdict on the 'creamy layer'. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The five-judge Constitution bench is examining whether its 12-year-old verdict that had dealt with the issue of 'creamy layer' for reservations to SC and ST categories in government job promotions needs to be re-visited by a seven-judge bench. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The apex court had on July 11 refused to pass any interim order against its 2006 verdict and said that a five-judge bench would first see whether it needs to be examined by a seven-judge bench or not. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
The M Nagaraj verdict of 2006 had held that the 'creamy layer' concept cannot be applied to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes for promotions in government jobs, like two earlier verdicts of 1992 Indra Sawhney and others versus Union of India (popularly called Mandal Commission verdict) and 2005 E V Chinnaiah versus State of Andhra Pradesh which had dealt with creamy layer in Other Backward Classes category. 
&nbsp &nbsp&nbsp 
It had reiterated that the ceiling-limit of 50 per cent, the concept of the creamy layer and the compelling reasons like backwardness, the inadequacy of representation and overall administrative efficiency were all constitutional requirements, without which the structure of equality of opportunity in Article 16 would collapse.

"Even today SC/ST people are socially backwards and not allowed to marry higher caste people and ride horses," Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court.

The Centre today told the Supreme Court that the creamy layer concept cannot be applied to deny benefits of quota in promotions to government employees of SC/ST community as the stigma of caste and backwardness is still attached to them. Attorney General K K Venugopal told a five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra that there is no judgment which says that affluent people of the SC/ST community can be denied quota benefits by applying creamy layer concept. Venugopal was responding to a question whether the creamy layer concept can be applied to exclude persons who have come up to ensure that the backward among the SC/ST communities can reap the benefits of quota. The top law officer said that even if some people of the community have come up, the stigma of caste and backwardness is still attached to them. He also said that the question of excluding a certain class of SC/ST has to be decided by the President and the Parliament and this exercise is not open to the judiciary. "They have to marry from their own caste. Even a well-off person of SC/ST community cannot marry from a higher caste. The fact that some persons have become affluent does not take away the imprint of caste and backwardness. The top law officer termed the discriminatory caste system as a misfortune of the country. Advancing of arguments is still continuing. The bench also comprises justices Kurian Joseph, R F Nariman, Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Indu Malhotra. Earlier on August 3, the apex court had asked the Centre as to why states have not come forward with any quantifiable data to decide the inadequacy of representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in government services even 12 years after its verdict on the 'creamy layer'. The five-judge Constitution bench is examining whether its 12-year-old verdict that had dealt with the issue of 'creamy layer' for reservations to SC and ST categories in government job promotions needs to be re-visited by a seven-judge bench. The apex court had on July 11 refused to pass any interim order against its 2006 verdict and said that a five-judge bench would first see whether it needs to be examined by a seven-judge bench or not. The M Nagaraj verdict of 2006 had held that the 'creamy layer' concept cannot be applied to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes for promotions in government jobs, like two earlier verdicts of 1992 Indra Sawhney and others versus Union of India (popularly called Mandal Commission verdict) and 2005 E V Chinnaiah versus State of Andhra Pradesh which had dealt with creamy layer in Other Backward Classes category. It had reiterated that the ceiling-limit of 50 per cent, the concept of the creamy layer and the compelling reasons like backwardness, the inadequacy of representation and overall administrative efficiency were all constitutional requirements, without which the structure of equality of opportunity in Article 16 would collapse.

Creamy layer cannot be applied to deny benefits of quota in promotions: Centre to SC

Ahead of the 21st round of India-China boundary talks, senior BJP leader Ram Madhav said today that a dispute over a “large segment” of the border with China has been resolved, barring the Western sector, and the negotiations were moving in the positive direction.

India and China have so far held 20 rounds of Special Representative-level talks to resolve the dispute over the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control. The next round of talks are due to be held between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the coming weeks. “The talks are moving in the positive direction,” BJP General Secretary Madhav, who is currently visiting China, told the Indian media here.

“It is not true. Most of the time those who are engaged in talks don’t disclose day-to-day progress. They want to achieve certain milestone then only they will disclose,” he added, refuting the perception that the border talks have not made much headway. “As far as I know, issues with large segments of our border have been resolved. There are few areas where negotiations are still going on,” he said.

Asked whether the understanding he referred to also applied to a section of Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as part of South Tibet, Madhav said, “I cannot say anything on those things. But mostly the Western sector is where major issue is there. Some areas are yet to be delimited. That I think will continue in the 21st round. It is an inherited problem for us.” He also sounded positive about achieving a political consensus with the opposition parties if an agreement is reached between two countries. He played down differences over a report on Doklam prepared by the Standing Committee Parliament on External Affairs headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor.

“Until now we had bipartisan consensus on issues like border talks. As we move closer to elections in India every issue becomes a political issue,” he said, in an apparent reference to the committee’s report. “The report you are mentioning, that was not the spirit in which we used to handle the issue but having said it, there will be bipartisan consensus on these (border) negotiations,” he said, adding that it is not a problem initiated by the BJP. “We are continuing (the talks) and taking them forward,” he said. He also said the border talks mechanism is working.

“As far as I know, the mechanism is working. We had so many rounds of talks without any complaints from either side. Things are moving, generally in the positive direction. I don’t know of any other plans,” he said. On Doklam, he insisted that the status quo prevailed at the standoff site which is being maintained by all three parties- China, India and Bhutan. The 73-day standoff last year began when Chinese troops tried to construct a road close to India’s border. Indian troops objected to the road in the territory claimed by Bhutan as it came close to the Indian highway. The standoff ended in late August after both sides agreed to disengage. There is “no change in the status quo. What existed earlier, exists today,” Madhav said.

India’s main issue in the area is with respect to the tri-junction because it has been agreed earlier that it should not be moved, he said. Referring to reports of build up by the Chinese troops in areas close to the standoff site, he said, “what a country does on its side is its prerogative. How can we comment on it? Right now, status quo is being maintained there”.

“When Doklam happened the policy adopted by our government was proactive diplomacy together with strong positioning (on the ground). This combination has helped in achieving good results on Doklam issue,” he said. “Our position with regard to border and trade deficit with China is clear and strong position. To address these issue, proactive diplomacy is the best way,” he added. “As far as the government position is concerned, the status quo which we wanted to be maintained there when Doklam dispute happened is being maintained by all the three sides,” he added.

On the ballooning trade deficit which touched last year about USD 51 billion in over USD 84 billion bilateral trade, Madhav said, “definitely there is conscious efforts (being made) by both the governments to bridge the gap”. “I am sure in the coming days we will be able to improve the situation. Today it is USD 51 billion. Even if we bring down by USD 20 or 30 billion it is a major achievement,” he said.

On the first informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, he said, “the Wuhan spirit is a new phrase between the two countries. Not formal but strongly informal relationship between the two countries. Both the countries should continue the spirit.” He said Prime Minister Modi and President Xi now enjoy personal bond and relationship. “That helps. Understanding between the leaders is always helpful in overcoming differences,” he said.

“Other neighbours are telling they are very happy that the two countries are having good ties at summit level,” the BJP leader said. On China stepping up ties with India’s neighbours, Madhav said India has very good relations with Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

“Maldives is a persisting problem for a couple of years. (We’re) Trying to sort it out,” he added. He said both India and China should step up people-to-people contacts. Madhav said the ties between the BJP and the ruling Communist Party of China are improving and such relationship helps to sort out difficult issues between the two countries.

Ahead of the 21st round of India-China boundary talks, senior BJP leader Ram Madhav said that a dispute over a "large segment" of the border with China has been resolved, barring the Western sector.

Ahead of the 21st round of India-China boundary talks, senior BJP leader Ram Madhav said today that a dispute over a “large segment” of the border with China has been resolved, barring the Western sector, and the negotiations were moving in the positive direction. India and China have so far held 20 rounds of Special Representative-level talks to resolve the dispute over the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control. The next round of talks are due to be held between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the coming weeks. “The talks are moving in the positive direction,” BJP General Secretary Madhav, who is currently visiting China, told the Indian media here. “It is not true. Most of the time those who are engaged in talks don’t disclose day-to-day progress. They want to achieve certain milestone then only they will disclose,” he added, refuting the perception that the border talks have not made much headway. “As far as I know, issues with large segments of our border have been resolved. There are few areas where negotiations are still going on,” he said. Asked whether the understanding he referred to also applied to a section of Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as part of South Tibet, Madhav said, “I cannot say anything on those things. But mostly the Western sector is where major issue is there. Some areas are yet to be delimited. That I think will continue in the 21st round. It is an inherited problem for us.” He also sounded positive about achieving a political consensus with the opposition parties if an agreement is reached between two countries. He played down differences over a report on Doklam prepared by the Standing Committee Parliament on External Affairs headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor. “Until now we had bipartisan consensus on issues like border talks. As we move closer to elections in India every issue becomes a political issue,” he said, in an apparent reference to the committee’s report. “The report you are mentioning, that was not the spirit in which we used to handle the issue but having said it, there will be bipartisan consensus on these (border) negotiations,” he said, adding that it is not a problem initiated by the BJP. “We are continuing (the talks) and taking them forward,” he said. He also said the border talks mechanism is working. “As far as I know, the mechanism is working. We had so many rounds of talks without any complaints from either side. Things are moving, generally in the positive direction. I don’t know of any other plans,” he said. On Doklam, he insisted that the status quo prevailed at the standoff site which is being maintained by all three parties- China, India and Bhutan. The 73-day standoff last year began when Chinese troops tried to construct a road close to India’s border. Indian troops objected to the road in the territory claimed by Bhutan as it came close to the Indian highway. The standoff ended in late August after both sides agreed to disengage. There is “no change in the status quo. What existed earlier, exists today,” Madhav said. India’s main issue in the area is with respect to the tri-junction because it has been agreed earlier that it should not be moved, he said. Referring to reports of build up by the Chinese troops in areas close to the standoff site, he said, “what a country does on its side is its prerogative. How can we comment on it? Right now, status quo is being maintained there”. “When Doklam happened the policy adopted by our government was proactive diplomacy together with strong positioning (on the ground). This combination has helped in achieving good results on Doklam issue,” he said. “Our position with regard to border and trade deficit with China is clear and strong position. To address these issue, proactive diplomacy is the best way,” he added. “As far as the government position is concerned, the status quo which we wanted to be maintained there when Doklam dispute happened is being maintained by all the three sides,” he added. On the ballooning trade deficit which touched last year about USD 51 billion in over USD 84 billion bilateral trade, Madhav said, “definitely there is conscious efforts (being made) by both the governments to bridge the gap”. “I am sure in the coming days we will be able to improve the situation. Today it is USD 51 billion. Even if we bring down by USD 20 or 30 billion it is a major achievement,” he said. On the first informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at Wuhan, he said, “the Wuhan spirit is a new phrase between the two countries. Not formal but strongly informal relationship between the two countries. Both the countries should continue the spirit.” He said Prime Minister Modi and President Xi now enjoy personal bond and relationship. “That helps. Understanding between the leaders is always helpful in overcoming differences,” he said. “Other neighbours are telling they are very happy that the two countries are having good ties at summit level,” the BJP leader said. On China stepping up ties with India’s neighbours, Madhav said India has very good relations with Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. “Maldives is a persisting problem for a couple of years. (We’re) Trying to sort it out,” he added. He said both India and China should step up people-to-people contacts. Madhav said the ties between the BJP and the ruling Communist Party of China are improving and such relationship helps to sort out difficult issues between the two countries.

India, China have resolved dispute over large segment of border: Ram Madhav

Additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in flood-hit Kerala for the rescue operation, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday.

Singh also spoke to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding the flood situation. "Had a telephonic conversation with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding the prevailing flood situation in the state. The Centre is rushing additional NDRF teams to Kerala. We are providing all possible assistance. I am in constant touch with Kerala CM," he tweeted.

A Crisis Management Group Committee meeting is also underway at Home Ministry over Kerala floods under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha.

As the flood situation in Kerala is getting worse by the day, rescue and relief operation has been stepped up in the state. Earlier today, the NDRF teams evacuated 926 persons to a safer place at Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Alappuzha district. Army also built a 35-feet long bridge and rescued around 100 people including children and senior citizens from Malampuzha's Valiyakadu village.

Meanwhile, 82 tourists are still stranded inside a bus in Munnar as all routes are either flooded or blocked due to mudslides.

Kerala has been witnessing incessant rain since past few days, causing flooding and landslide in the state. So far, at least 73 people have lost their lives in the havoc.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister to discuss flood situation in the state.

A Crisis Management Group Committee meeting is also underway at Home Ministry over Kerala floods under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha.

Additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in flood-hit Kerala for the rescue operation, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday. Singh also spoke to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding the flood situation. "Had a telephonic conversation with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding the prevailing flood situation in the state. The Centre is rushing additional NDRF teams to Kerala. We are providing all possible assistance. I am in constant touch with Kerala CM," he tweeted. A Crisis Management Group Committee meeting is also underway at Home Ministry over Kerala floods under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha. As the flood situation in Kerala is getting worse by the day, rescue and relief operation has been stepped up in the state. Earlier today, the NDRF teams evacuated 926 persons to a safer place at Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Alappuzha district. Army also built a 35-feet long bridge and rescued around 100 people including children and senior citizens from Malampuzha's Valiyakadu village. Meanwhile, 82 tourists are still stranded inside a bus in Munnar as all routes are either flooded or blocked due to mudslides. Kerala has been witnessing incessant rain since past few days, causing flooding and landslide in the state. So far, at least 73 people have lost their lives in the havoc. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister to discuss flood situation in the state.

Kerala flood: Additional NDRF teams deployed for rescue operations

The Election Commission was capable of holding the Lok Sabha elections and polls to four state assemblies together in December if the parliamentary elections are advanced, Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said on Wednesday.

His comments came when asked whether the Election Commission was ready if the Lok Sabha elections are held in December along with assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Rajasthan.

"Why not. There would not be any problem," he said.

There has been speculation in some circles that the Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for April-May 2019 may be advanced to November-December 2018 so that they can be held simultaneously with assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Rajasthan.

While the term of the Mizoram Assembly will end on December 15, the terms of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assemblies would end on January 5, 2019, January 7 and January 20, 2019, respectively.

Asked whether the required electronic voting machines (EVMs) and paper trail machines would be ready if the LS polls are held in December along with those of four assemblies, the CEC said while all the required EVMs would be in place by September end, paper trail machines would come in November end.

The CEC explained that out of 17.5 lakh paper trail machines, 16 lakh would be in place before November.

The remaining 1.5 lakh paper trail or voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines would be delivered by the end of November.

"As you had sought to know, if LS elections are held in December, then the first level check (FLC) of the 1.5 lakh VVPATs (which EC would get in November end) would be difficult ... then some critical small gaps would be there," he said.

While the EC needs EVMs and VVPATs for 10 lakh polling stations for the LS polls, it needs the two devices for two lakh polling stations in four states where Assembly elections would be due in December-January.

"There would be a little constraint on the reserves. Instead of 135 per cent (reserves), will have to go for 130 per cent, if the situation arises," Mr Rawat said about VVPATs.

Voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) or paper trail machine is a device which dispenses a slip with the symbol of the party for which a person has voted for. The slip appears on a small window for seven seconds and then drops in a box. But the voter cannot take it home.

The VVPAT is used in all polling stations. But as of now, results of EVMs and VVPATs are matched in one polling station per constituency.

There have been demands to increase the number of polling stations where EVM and VVPAT results are matched to dispel fears about electronic voting machines being 'hacked' to favour a particular political party.

Mr Rawat said there have been delays in the delivery of paper trail machines as the Technical Experts Committee appointed by it analyses the technology stabilisation issues in the initial batches and incorporates essential design improvements.

"This ensures we don't face the problems later," he said.

While all required EVMs -- 13.95 lakh ballot units and 9.3 lakh control units — will be delivered by September 30, 17.15 lakh VVPATs will also be delivered well before the end of November, he added.

Over 11 per cent of the 10,300 VVPAT machines across 10 states had developed faults and had to be replaced during the May 28 polls.

His comments came when asked whether the Election Commission was ready if the Lok Sabha elections are held in December

The Election Commission was capable of holding the Lok Sabha elections and polls to four state assemblies together in December if the parliamentary elections are advanced, Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat said on Wednesday. His comments came when asked whether the Election Commission was ready if the Lok Sabha elections are held in December along with assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Rajasthan. "Why not. There would not be any problem," he said. There has been speculation in some circles that the Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for April-May 2019 may be advanced to November-December 2018 so that they can be held simultaneously with assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Rajasthan. While the term of the Mizoram Assembly will end on December 15, the terms of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assemblies would end on January 5, 2019, January 7 and January 20, 2019, respectively. Asked whether the required electronic voting machines (EVMs) and paper trail machines would be ready if the LS polls are held in December along with those of four assemblies, the CEC said while all the required EVMs would be in place by September end, paper trail machines would come in November end. The CEC explained that out of 17.5 lakh paper trail machines, 16 lakh would be in place before November. The remaining 1.5 lakh paper trail or voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines would be delivered by the end of November. "As you had sought to know, if LS elections are held in December, then the first level check (FLC) of the 1.5 lakh VVPATs (which EC would get in November end) would be difficult ... then some critical small gaps would be there," he said. While the EC needs EVMs and VVPATs for 10 lakh polling stations for the LS polls, it needs the two devices for two lakh polling stations in four states where Assembly elections would be due in December-January. "There would be a little constraint on the reserves. Instead of 135 per cent (reserves), will have to go for 130 per cent, if the situation arises," Mr Rawat said about VVPATs. Voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) or paper trail machine is a device which dispenses a slip with the symbol of the party for which a person has voted for. The slip appears on a small window for seven seconds and then drops in a box. But the voter cannot take it home. The VVPAT is used in all polling stations. But as of now, results of EVMs and VVPATs are matched in one polling station per constituency. There have been demands to increase the number of polling stations where EVM and VVPAT results are matched to dispel fears about electronic voting machines being 'hacked' to favour a particular political party. Mr Rawat said there have been delays in the delivery of paper trail machines as the Technical Experts Committee appointed by it analyses the technology stabilisation issues in the initial batches and incorporates essential design improvements. "This ensures we don't face the problems later," he said. While all required EVMs -- 13.95 lakh ballot units and 9.3 lakh control units — will be delivered by September 30, 17.15 lakh VVPATs will also be delivered well before the end of November, he added. Over 11 per cent of the 10,300 VVPAT machines across 10 states had developed faults and had to be replaced during the May 28 polls.

Can hold Lok Sabha, 4 state polls together in December: CEC OP Rawat

Five persons were killed in a landslide in Palakkad district of Kerala today even as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-flood-pm-modi-discusses-situation-with-cm-toll-touches-79-159502">torrential rains</a> led to the collapse of the public transport system in many parts of the state with the southern Railways and Kochi Metro suspending operations.&nbsp;

Palakkad district police sources said the five persons were killed in Nenmara while two were rescued, taking the death toll to 72 in the current phase of Monsoon fury.

Reports of a landslide have also come in from Thrissur district and some people are said to be missing, the sources said.

Rise in flood waters in Periyar River due to the rains and opening of all shutters of all major dams including Mullaperiyar, Cheruthoni, part of Idukki reservoir, and Idamalayar, have severely affected lives of people in downstream areas.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan once again called up Prime Minister Narendra Modi and apprised him of the flood situation in the state.

The state has also sought the services of additional Army personnel and helicopters and the prime minister has assured all help, Vijayan said.

"Spoke to Kerala CM Shri Pinarayi Vijayan again this morning. We discussed the flood situation in the state. Have asked Defence Ministry to further step up the rescue and relief operations across the state. Praying for the safety and well-being of the people of Kerala. @CMOKerala," the prime minister tweeted.

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Spoke to Kerala CM Shri Pinarayi Vijayan again this morning. We discussed the flood situation in the state. Have asked Defence Ministry to further step up the rescue and relief operations across the state. Praying for the safety and well-being of the people of Kerala. <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOKerala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOKerala</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1029937060356997120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The chief minister also called up Home Minister Rajnath Singh and spoke to him about the flood situation and sought more central help for relief and rescue operations.

Floods continue to ravage most parts of Kerala, especially Pathanamthitta, Ernakukam and Alappuzha districts, where several people, including children and elderly, are trapped in their houses.

Kochi Metro suspended operations this morning after flood waters entered the Muttom yard near Aluva and train services have been affected in various parts of the state with cancellation of many passenger trains and partial cancellation of some long distance train.

"Kochi Metro train operation is suspended as the water level rose in Muttom yard area," a KMRL statement said.

A high alert situation continues in all the 14 districts in the state.

At least 24 people had lost their lives on a single day yesterday in the state, taking the death toll to 67.

Over 1.5 lakh people have been moved to 1,067 relief camps across the State, sources said.

In Pathnamthitta district Ranni, Kozhencherry and Aranmula are among the areas worst affected.

NDRF teams have been sent to rescue people stranded in their waterlogged houses.

Flood waters have reached even second floors of various homes and people have taken shelter in the terraces of their houses.

They are trapped with no drinking water, food and power.

Television visuals this morning showed Army personnel, who arrived in boats, rescuing an elderly person and few others trapped in a marooned house in Kozhencherry.

Girls students of Aranmula Engineering College and their warden, who were stuck in the hostel, were rescued by Air force personnel.

An Army contingent with boats reached the state capital last night for the rescue operations in Ranni, Kozhhenchery and Aranmula areas.

Due to land slip between Kulitturai-Eraniel stations in the Thiruvananthapuram-Nagercoil Junction section, some passenger trains were cancelled while a few others were partially cancelled.

Cochin International Airport had yesterday suspended all flight operations till Saturday as water entered the airport area following continuous rains and opening of dam shutters in Periyar River.

A Defence spokesperson said the Navy has been getting several SoS calls from thousands of people marooned in their houses in many parts of central and south Kerala.

The spokesperson said calls were being received from all over the region, adding it was, however, impossible to reach some specific people as everyone en route were in a similar situation and needed help.

Hence, he said the Navy was operating as per the information being provided by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), which is coordinating the rescue and relief operations.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He asked for additional Army personnel and helicopters to help with rescue operations.

Five persons were killed in a landslide in Palakkad district of Kerala today even as torrential rains led to the collapse of the public transport system in many parts of the state with the southern Railways and Kochi Metro suspending operations. Palakkad district police sources said the five persons were killed in Nenmara while two were rescued, taking the death toll to 72 in the current phase of Monsoon fury. Reports of a landslide have also come in from Thrissur district and some people are said to be missing, the sources said. Rise in flood waters in Periyar River due to the rains and opening of all shutters of all major dams including Mullaperiyar, Cheruthoni, part of Idukki reservoir, and Idamalayar, have severely affected lives of people in downstream areas. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan once again called up Prime Minister Narendra Modi and apprised him of the flood situation in the state. The state has also sought the services of additional Army personnel and helicopters and the prime minister has assured all help, Vijayan said. "Spoke to Kerala CM Shri Pinarayi Vijayan again this morning. We discussed the flood situation in the state. Have asked Defence Ministry to further step up the rescue and relief operations across the state. Praying for the safety and well-being of the people of Kerala. @CMOKerala," the prime minister tweeted. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri Pinarayi Vijayan again this morning. We discussed the flood situation in the state. Have asked Defence Ministry to further step up the rescue and relief operations across the state. Praying for the safety and well-being of the people of Kerala. @CMOKerala — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2018 × The chief minister also called up Home Minister Rajnath Singh and spoke to him about the flood situation and sought more central help for relief and rescue operations. Floods continue to ravage most parts of Kerala, especially Pathanamthitta, Ernakukam and Alappuzha districts, where several people, including children and elderly, are trapped in their houses. Kochi Metro suspended operations this morning after flood waters entered the Muttom yard near Aluva and train services have been affected in various parts of the state with cancellation of many passenger trains and partial cancellation of some long distance train. "Kochi Metro train operation is suspended as the water level rose in Muttom yard area," a KMRL statement said. A high alert situation continues in all the 14 districts in the state. At least 24 people had lost their lives on a single day yesterday in the state, taking the death toll to 67. Over 1.5 lakh people have been moved to 1,067 relief camps across the State, sources said. In Pathnamthitta district Ranni, Kozhencherry and Aranmula are among the areas worst affected. NDRF teams have been sent to rescue people stranded in their waterlogged houses. Flood waters have reached even second floors of various homes and people have taken shelter in the terraces of their houses. They are trapped with no drinking water, food and power. Television visuals this morning showed Army personnel, who arrived in boats, rescuing an elderly person and few others trapped in a marooned house in Kozhencherry. Girls students of Aranmula Engineering College and their warden, who were stuck in the hostel, were rescued by Air force personnel. An Army contingent with boats reached the state capital last night for the rescue operations in Ranni, Kozhhenchery and Aranmula areas. Due to land slip between Kulitturai-Eraniel stations in the Thiruvananthapuram-Nagercoil Junction section, some passenger trains were cancelled while a few others were partially cancelled. Cochin International Airport had yesterday suspended all flight operations till Saturday as water entered the airport area following continuous rains and opening of dam shutters in Periyar River. A Defence spokesperson said the Navy has been getting several SoS calls from thousands of people marooned in their houses in many parts of central and south Kerala. The spokesperson said calls were being received from all over the region, adding it was, however, impossible to reach some specific people as everyone en route were in a similar situation and needed help. Hence, he said the Navy was operating as per the information being provided by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), which is coordinating the rescue and relief operations.

Kerala rains: 5 more killed in Palakkad landslide, no let up in monsoon fury

Madhya Pradesh Police has confirmed that 45 people have been rescued from Sultan Garh Waterfalls in Gwalior’s Shivpuri after water level increased due to a sudden release of water from a dam.&nbsp

Talking to media, Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Hingankar said, “We have rescued 40 people and five people were rescued earlier by a helicopter. All these 45 people are safe now.” Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Minister Yashodhara Raje Scindia congratulated the administration for acting swiftly and rescuing people.

“As of now, we do not know how many people have been washed away. I would like to congratulate the administration for acting swiftly and rescuing people,” Scindia said. Both Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took to their respective Twitter handles and assured Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to provide all the necessary assistance to rescue stranded people.

“Spoke to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri @ChouhanShivraj regarding the situation in Shivpuri district. NDRF has already been pressed into service to save those who are stranded. The efforts are on to save everyone. I have assured him of all possible assistance from the Centre,” Singh tweeted. Sitharaman, on the other hand, wrote, “Hon CM @ChouhanShivraj spoke about the situation in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh. Assured him on extending necessary assistance. Instructed @IAF_MCC to respond in time. Will monitor it from our end. @nstomar”

“Shri @nstomar called and spoke from the site where an emergency situation prevails. Sought help in the rescue. Referred to the conversation with @CMMadhyaPradesh @ChouhanShivraj and assured Shri @nstomar too. @IAF_MCC in loop,” she added. Chouhan had earlier informed that efforts are underway to rescue the people stranded in the Sultan Garh Waterfalls, where 11 youth drowned following an increase in water level.&nbsp

A helicopter was earlier used to locate the missing people. The Madhya Pradesh police was also present at the spot for the rescue operation. Sultan Garh Waterfalls is a popular picnic spot situated amidst rocks in Shivpuri.

Madhya Pradesh Police has confirmed that 45 people have been rescued from Sultan Garh Waterfalls in Gwalior's Shivpuri after water level increased due to a sudden release of water from a dam.

Madhya Pradesh Police has confirmed that 45 people have been rescued from Sultan Garh Waterfalls in Gwalior’s Shivpuri after water level increased due to a sudden release of water from a dam. Talking to media, Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Hingankar said, “We have rescued 40 people and five people were rescued earlier by a helicopter. All these 45 people are safe now.” Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Minister Yashodhara Raje Scindia congratulated the administration for acting swiftly and rescuing people. “As of now, we do not know how many people have been washed away. I would like to congratulate the administration for acting swiftly and rescuing people,” Scindia said. Both Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took to their respective Twitter handles and assured Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to provide all the necessary assistance to rescue stranded people. “Spoke to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri @ChouhanShivraj regarding the situation in Shivpuri district. NDRF has already been pressed into service to save those who are stranded. The efforts are on to save everyone. I have assured him of all possible assistance from the Centre,” Singh tweeted. Sitharaman, on the other hand, wrote, “Hon CM @ChouhanShivraj spoke about the situation in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh. Assured him on extending necessary assistance. Instructed @IAF_MCC to respond in time. Will monitor it from our end. @nstomar” “Shri @nstomar called and spoke from the site where an emergency situation prevails. Sought help in the rescue. Referred to the conversation with @CMMadhyaPradesh @ChouhanShivraj and assured Shri @nstomar too. @IAF_MCC in loop,” she added. Chouhan had earlier informed that efforts are underway to rescue the people stranded in the Sultan Garh Waterfalls, where 11 youth drowned following an increase in water level. A helicopter was earlier used to locate the missing people. The Madhya Pradesh police was also present at the spot for the rescue operation. Sultan Garh Waterfalls is a popular picnic spot situated amidst rocks in Shivpuri.

45 people rescued from Sultan Garh Waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh

Responding to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the TRS government in Telangana, state municipal administration minister K T Rama Rao on Tuesday alleged that it was the Congress which indulged in corruption and stifled freedom of expression.

"You talk about corruption Rahulji? Look around on the dais half the people sitting next to you are out on bail!! Some in CBI cases & others in corruption cases. Oh! I forgot it's the "scamgress". A for Adarsh, B for Bofors, C for Commonwealth," Rao tweeted.

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You talk about corruption Rahul Ji? Look around on the Dias half the people sitting next to you are out on bail !! Some in CBI cases & others in corruption cases 
 
Oh, I forgot it’s the “Scamgress” party 
 
A for Adarsh 
B for Bofors 
C for Commonwealth..... 
 
Want me to go on Sir??
— KTR (@KTRTRS) <a href="https://twitter.com/KTRTRS/status/1029364424501415936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rao was referring to Adarsh housing scam, Bofors scam and Commonwealth Games scam.

The Telangana martyrs memorial, where Gandhi paid homage on Tuesday, was installed in memory of those who were killed in 1969 at the behest of the then Indira Gandhi regime and those who killed themselves during the previous UPA regime, he said.

Referring to Gandhi's criticism of the TRS government over freedom of expression, Rao said it was during the Emergency, imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in 1975, that freedom of expression was stifled.

Referring to Gandhi's criticism of TRS govt, K T Rama Rao said it was during Emergency in 1975 that freedom of expression was stifled.

Responding to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the TRS government in Telangana, state municipal administration minister K T Rama Rao on Tuesday alleged that it was the Congress which indulged in corruption and stifled freedom of expression. "You talk about corruption Rahulji? Look around on the dais half the people sitting next to you are out on bail!! Some in CBI cases & others in corruption cases. Oh! I forgot it's the "scamgress". A for Adarsh, B for Bofors, C for Commonwealth," Rao tweeted. You talk about corruption Rahul Ji? Look around on the Dias half the people sitting next to you are out on bail !! Some in CBI cases & others in corruption cases Oh, I forgot it’s the “Scamgress” party A for Adarsh B for Bofors C for Commonwealth..... Want me to go on Sir?? — KTR (@KTRTRS) August 14, 2018 × Rao was referring to Adarsh housing scam, Bofors scam and Commonwealth Games scam. The Telangana martyrs memorial, where Gandhi paid homage on Tuesday, was installed in memory of those who were killed in 1969 at the behest of the then Indira Gandhi regime and those who killed themselves during the previous UPA regime, he said. Referring to Gandhi's criticism of the TRS government over freedom of expression, Rao said it was during the Emergency, imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in 1975, that freedom of expression was stifled.

It’s Congress which is indulged in corruption: TRS hits back at Rahul Gandhi

Kochi airport has suspended all operations till Saturday, 2pm.&nbsp;

The decision to suspend operations was taken after shutters of the Idamalayar and Cheruthoni dams, part of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/heaviest-rain-in-50-years-in-kerala-army-deployed-in-idukki-wayanad-districts-158143">Idukki</a> reservoir, were opened last evening to release excess water.

The airport is located near the Periyar river bank.

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Kerala: Kochi airport shut till August 18, 2 pm due to heavy rains. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Keralarains?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Keralarains</a> <a href="https://t.co/NXNr9iem3u">pic.twitter.com/NXNr9iem3u</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1029603371978711041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The airport had earlier announced it would shut down till 2pm today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Operations suspended to/from Cochin International Airport till 1400 hrs...due to flood level in and around Airport," the airport's official handle&nbsp;had said on Twitter.

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CIAL UPDATE-2 
5.30 AM 15-08-18 
 
Operations suspended to/from Cochin International Airport till 1400 hrs...due to flood level in and around Airport. 
CIAL PR@CC
— Kochi Airport (@KochiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/KochiAirport/status/1029518413285273600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Met department meanwhile has issued a red alert, saying heavy to very rainfall is expected till tomorrow in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasargode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Idukki and Ernakulam districts.&nbsp;

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India Meteorological Department has issued red alert (heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places) for Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasargode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Idukki and Ernakulam Districts till tomorrow. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://t.co/5iaRihxp3Q">pic.twitter.com/5iaRihxp3Q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1029601794991640576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kerala has been hit by torrential rains in recent days. The rains, flooded rivers, and landslides have so far claimed 40 lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The decision to suspend the operations was taken after shutters of the Idamalayar and Cheruthoni dams, part of Idukki reservoir, were opened last evening to release excess water. The airport is located near the Periyar river bank.

Kochi airport has suspended all operations till Saturday, 2pm. The decision to suspend operations was taken after shutters of the Idamalayar and Cheruthoni dams, part of Idukki reservoir, were opened last evening to release excess water. The airport is located near the Periyar river bank. Kerala: Kochi airport shut till August 18, 2 pm due to heavy rains. #Keralarains pic.twitter.com/NXNr9iem3u — ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2018 × The airport had earlier announced it would shut down till 2pm today. "Operations suspended to/from Cochin International Airport till 1400 hrs...due to flood level in and around Airport," the airport's official handle had said on Twitter. CIAL UPDATE-2 5.30 AM 15-08-18 Operations suspended to/from Cochin International Airport till 1400 hrs...due to flood level in and around Airport. CIAL PR@CC — Kochi Airport (@KochiAirport) August 15, 2018 × The Met department meanwhile has issued a red alert, saying heavy to very rainfall is expected till tomorrow in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasargode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Idukki and Ernakulam districts. India Meteorological Department has issued red alert (heavy to very heavy rainfall in most places) for Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasargode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Idukki and Ernakulam Districts till tomorrow. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/5iaRihxp3Q — ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2018 × Kerala has been hit by torrential rains in recent days. The rains, flooded rivers, and landslides have so far claimed 40 lives. (With inputs from PTI)

Kerala: Met Dept says more rains coming, Kochi Airport shut till 2pm Saturday

The Law Commission is set to recommend a tough legal framework this month to hold <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-thinking-of-holding-11-state-elections-with-lok-sabha-polls-next-year-reports-159028">Lok Sabha and Assembly polls together</a>, highly placed sources on the panel said today.

"We were not asked whether we support it or not. We were asked to provide the way ahead. We will do that," a functionary said.

The commission would recommend amendments to the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act to ensure simultaneous polls.

The recommendations of the commission are not binding on the government, but the report will allow an informed debate among political parties and stakeholders, he said.

Simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies can be held in two phases beginning in 2019, provided at least two provisions of the Constitution are amended and ratified by majority of the states, a Law Commission study paper had said in April.

According to the working paper, the second phase of simultaneous polls can take place in 2024.

The document stated that the leader of the majority party be elected prime minister or chief minister by the entire House (Lok Sabha or state Assembly) to ensure stability of the government as well as the Lok Sabha or the Assembly.

The document proposed amending the Constitution (Articles 83(2) and 172(1) dealing with tenures of Lok Sabha and state Assemblies) and the Representation of the People Act to extend the terms of state legislative Assemblies to effect the move.

It suggested that in case a government fell mid-term, the term of the new government would be for the remaining period "and not for a fresh five-year term".

"As an abundant caution and in order to avoid a challenge (in the courts) to amendments on the ground of not having obtained ratification by majority of the states, such ratification could be obtained for the proposed (constitutional) amendment," the working paper said.

The states which are recommended to be covered under phase I are where Assembly polls are due in 2021. These include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

States which will come under phase II are Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Delhi and Punjab. To hold elections in these states along with Lok Sabha polls, the terms of the Assemblies have to be extended.

Based on a suggestion made by the Election Commission, the working paper also said that a no-confidence motion against the government should be followed by a confidence motion. This would ensure that if the opposition does not have numbers to form an alternative government, the regime in office cannot be removed.

Chief Election Commissioner Om Prakash Rawat had a word of caution on simultaneous polls when he recently said that the legal framework required for holding of the two elections together would take a ?lot of time? to get ready.

"We cannot put the cart before the horse. Logistical issues are subservient to legal framework. Unless legal framework is in place, we don't have to talk about anything else because legal framework will take a lot of time, making constitutional amendment to (changing) the law, all the process will take time,? he said.

He had said once the legal framework is ready, the EC would deliver. ?? EC is a creation of the Constitution. We have to perform willy-nilly, deliver the election, whatever way prescribed in the law,? he had said.

Political parties are divided on the issue. Besides NDA constituent Shiromani Akali Dal, the AIADMK, the Samajwadi Party and the Telangana Rashtra Samiti have supported it.

The Congress, the Trinamool Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party, the DMK, the Telugu Desam Party, the Left parties and the JD(S) have opposed the proposal. PTI&nbsp;

'We were not asked whether we support it or not. We were asked to provide the way ahead. We will do that,' a Law Commission functionary said.

The Law Commission is set to recommend a tough legal framework this month to hold Lok Sabha and Assembly polls together, highly placed sources on the panel said today. "We were not asked whether we support it or not. We were asked to provide the way ahead. We will do that," a functionary said. The commission would recommend amendments to the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act to ensure simultaneous polls. The recommendations of the commission are not binding on the government, but the report will allow an informed debate among political parties and stakeholders, he said. Simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies can be held in two phases beginning in 2019, provided at least two provisions of the Constitution are amended and ratified by majority of the states, a Law Commission study paper had said in April. According to the working paper, the second phase of simultaneous polls can take place in 2024. The document stated that the leader of the majority party be elected prime minister or chief minister by the entire House (Lok Sabha or state Assembly) to ensure stability of the government as well as the Lok Sabha or the Assembly. The document proposed amending the Constitution (Articles 83(2) and 172(1) dealing with tenures of Lok Sabha and state Assemblies) and the Representation of the People Act to extend the terms of state legislative Assemblies to effect the move. It suggested that in case a government fell mid-term, the term of the new government would be for the remaining period "and not for a fresh five-year term". "As an abundant caution and in order to avoid a challenge (in the courts) to amendments on the ground of not having obtained ratification by majority of the states, such ratification could be obtained for the proposed (constitutional) amendment," the working paper said. The states which are recommended to be covered under phase I are where Assembly polls are due in 2021. These include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. States which will come under phase II are Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Delhi and Punjab. To hold elections in these states along with Lok Sabha polls, the terms of the Assemblies have to be extended. Based on a suggestion made by the Election Commission, the working paper also said that a no-confidence motion against the government should be followed by a confidence motion. This would ensure that if the opposition does not have numbers to form an alternative government, the regime in office cannot be removed. Chief Election Commissioner Om Prakash Rawat had a word of caution on simultaneous polls when he recently said that the legal framework required for holding of the two elections together would take a ?lot of time? to get ready. "We cannot put the cart before the horse. Logistical issues are subservient to legal framework. Unless legal framework is in place, we don't have to talk about anything else because legal framework will take a lot of time, making constitutional amendment to (changing) the law, all the process will take time,? he said. He had said once the legal framework is ready, the EC would deliver. ?? EC is a creation of the Constitution. We have to perform willy-nilly, deliver the election, whatever way prescribed in the law,? he had said. Political parties are divided on the issue. Besides NDA constituent Shiromani Akali Dal, the AIADMK, the Samajwadi Party and the Telangana Rashtra Samiti have supported it. The Congress, the Trinamool Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party, the DMK, the Telugu Desam Party, the Left parties and the JD(S) have opposed the proposal. PTI

Law Commission set to recommend legal framework for simultaneous polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India will be the engine of growth for the world economy for the next three decades as the "sleeping elephant" has started to run on the back of structural reforms like GST.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 72nd Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi listed out the pace of reforms in the last four years of his government that pulled out the country from being considered a "fragile and risky" economy to being the fastest in the world.

Prior to 2014, India was likened to policy paralysis and delayed reforms. "India was considered among 'fragile five' but today the world is seeing it as a destination of multi-billion dollar investment. The narrative has changed," he said.

The government's motto, he said, is reform, perform and transform. Red tape has been replaced with 'red carpet', propelling India on the ease of doing business ranking, he said.

Bottlenecks were a topic of discussions among international institutions and experts prior to 2014 but "today they are saying the sleeping elephant has woken up and has started running".

The comment was an apparent reference to International Monetary Fund's commentary on India last week in which it said the country is on track to hold its position as one of the world's fastest-growing economies as reforms start to pay off. Stating that India is now the sixth largest economy in the world, PM Modi said international institutions are saying that "India will give strength to the world economy for the next three decades. India will be the engine of growth".

"We have the potential to take tough decisions. We are not partisan," he said.

"Prior to 2014, global institutions used to say the Indian economy is risky. Today the same institutions and people are saying that reform momentum is giving strength to fundamentals," the Prime Minister said.

He went on to list structural reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST), bankruptcy and insolvency law and benami property law that helped transform the economy. Electrifying all villages, providing 5 crore cleaner cooking gas to poor women, doubling the pace of highway construction, record food grain production, record mobile phone manufacturing, and building four-time more new houses in villages were some of the achievements of his government, he said.

If the work continued at the pace that was prevalent in 2013, it would have taken one or two more decades to electrify all villages, 100 years to provide LPG connections to all and generations to take optic fibre to villages.

PM Modi said the government fulfilled the promise to provide 50 per cent more than the cost of production for kharif crops to farmers and is on the way to achieve the target of doubling farm income by 2022.

Modi used the spotlight to laud his government's achievements and announce that a massive health insurance scheme would be launched in September and India would send a manned mission into space by 2022.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India will be the engine of growth for the world economy for the next three decades as the "sleeping elephant" has started to run on the back of structural reforms like GST. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 72nd Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi listed out the pace of reforms in the last four years of his government that pulled out the country from being considered a "fragile and risky" economy to being the fastest in the world. Prior to 2014, India was likened to policy paralysis and delayed reforms. "India was considered among 'fragile five' but today the world is seeing it as a destination of multi-billion dollar investment. The narrative has changed," he said. The government's motto, he said, is reform, perform and transform. Red tape has been replaced with 'red carpet', propelling India on the ease of doing business ranking, he said. Bottlenecks were a topic of discussions among international institutions and experts prior to 2014 but "today they are saying the sleeping elephant has woken up and has started running". The comment was an apparent reference to International Monetary Fund's commentary on India last week in which it said the country is on track to hold its position as one of the world's fastest-growing economies as reforms start to pay off. Stating that India is now the sixth largest economy in the world, PM Modi said international institutions are saying that "India will give strength to the world economy for the next three decades. India will be the engine of growth". "We have the potential to take tough decisions. We are not partisan," he said. "Prior to 2014, global institutions used to say the Indian economy is risky. Today the same institutions and people are saying that reform momentum is giving strength to fundamentals," the Prime Minister said. He went on to list structural reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST), bankruptcy and insolvency law and benami property law that helped transform the economy. Electrifying all villages, providing 5 crore cleaner cooking gas to poor women, doubling the pace of highway construction, record food grain production, record mobile phone manufacturing, and building four-time more new houses in villages were some of the achievements of his government, he said. If the work continued at the pace that was prevalent in 2013, it would have taken one or two more decades to electrify all villages, 100 years to provide LPG connections to all and generations to take optic fibre to villages. PM Modi said the government fulfilled the promise to provide 50 per cent more than the cost of production for kharif crops to farmers and is on the way to achieve the target of doubling farm income by 2022.

Sleeping elephant has now woken up, India to lead world growth for 3 decades: PM Modi

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Sleeping elephant has now woken up, India to lead world growth for 3 decades: PM Modi