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BJP President Amit Shah denied for doing rally in West bengal by authorities. BJP has accused Mamata Banerjee of threatning Democracy. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Tug of War in West Bengal

Watch BSP Chief Mayawati's distasteful appeal from women of our nation. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Mayawati's Distasteful Appeal

Accusing the West Bengal government of not allowing its<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/amit-shah-will-be-home-minister-if-bjp-returns-to-power-kejriwal-217466"> president Amit Shah's</a> rally in Jadhavpur, the BJP said Monday the Election Commission has become a "mute spectator" to the Trinamool Congress's alleged undemocratic means to target the saffron party.

BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said his party will hold protests and also move the EC. Shah's rally was scheduled for Monday in Jadhavpur, which goes to the polls on May 19 in the last phase, but the permission for it was denied at the last minute by the state administration, he said.

Subsequently, the permission for Shah's chopper to land was also withdrawn, Baluni said. "It is unfortunate that the EC has become a mute spectator to all this and also use of violence by the TMC in the state," he said.

He alleged the ruling party in Bengal was using undemocratic means to target the BJP. Nine seats will go to polls in the last phase of the general election.&nbsp;

Accusing the West Bengal government of not allowing its president Amit Shah's rally in Jadhavpur, the BJP said Monday the Election Commission has become a "mute spectator" to the Trinamool Congress's alleged undemocratic means to target the saffron party.

Accusing the West Bengal government of not allowing its president Amit Shah's rally in Jadhavpur, the BJP said Monday the Election Commission has become a "mute spectator" to the Trinamool Congress's alleged undemocratic means to target the saffron party. BJP media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said his party will hold protests and also move the EC. Shah's rally was scheduled for Monday in Jadhavpur, which goes to the polls on May 19 in the last phase, but the permission for it was denied at the last minute by the state administration, he said. Subsequently, the permission for Shah's chopper to land was also withdrawn, Baluni said. "It is unfortunate that the EC has become a mute spectator to all this and also use of violence by the TMC in the state," he said. He alleged the ruling party in Bengal was using undemocratic means to target the BJP. Nine seats will go to polls in the last phase of the general election.

Bharatiya Janata Party announces protests over 'denial' of permission to Shah's rally in Bengal

In this segment of 'India Election Watch' We decodes the election discource with Mr. Andrew Whitehead, Former BBC Senior Journalist; Mr. Arun Anand, Senior Journalist & Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai, Author & Professor Emeritus at LSE.

India Election Watch: Decoding the Election discourse with some experts

PM Modi slams entire opposition mentioning Sam Pitroda's comments again. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: PM Modi slams entire opposition

In this segment of India Election Watch, Know the significance of Phase 7 of LS Polls 2019.

India Election Watch: Significance of Phase 7 of LS Polls 2019

Countdown has begin for the results day of India General Election 2019. Six phases has been completed. Overall West Bengal records high voter turnout. Watch this complete video to know more.

India Election Watch: Big Picture Of The 2019 Election

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, reported news agency ANI.

Rajgarh is over 130 km away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a key contest with BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur.

"I regret that I could not reach Rajgarh to cast my ballot. Next time, I will ensure that my vote is registered in Bhopal," ANI reported quoting Singh.

Throughout the day, the Congress candidate from Bhopal visited various polling stations in the constituency to track the voting, sources said.

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Digvijaya Singh, Congress Lok Sabha candidate from Bhopal: Yes I couldn't go to vote to Rajgarh and I regret it. Next time I will register my name in Bhopal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/ewlpgBncmg">pic.twitter.com/ewlpgBncmg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1127550385961472000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, he was seen outside a temple. When asked whether he will go to cast his vote, he replied, "I will see. I will try to reach."

The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister also urged people to exercise their franchise in large numbers. "Go in large numbers and cast your vote. Vote without fear," he said.

The Congress leader is facing Thakur, a 2008 Malegaon blast case accused, among other candidates.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, reported news agency ANI.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, reported news agency ANI. Rajgarh is over 130 km away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a key contest with BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur. "I regret that I could not reach Rajgarh to cast my ballot. Next time, I will ensure that my vote is registered in Bhopal," ANI reported quoting Singh. Throughout the day, the Congress candidate from Bhopal visited various polling stations in the constituency to track the voting, sources said. Digvijaya Singh, Congress Lok Sabha candidate from Bhopal: Yes I couldn't go to vote to Rajgarh and I regret it. Next time I will register my name in Bhopal. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/ewlpgBncmg — ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019 × Earlier in the day, he was seen outside a temple. When asked whether he will go to cast his vote, he replied, "I will see. I will try to reach." The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister also urged people to exercise their franchise in large numbers. "Go in large numbers and cast your vote. Vote without fear," he said. The Congress leader is facing Thakur, a 2008 Malegaon blast case accused, among other candidates.

Digvijaya Singh expresses regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh 

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23.

But before the results are out, tongues are wagging and regional leaders - who many say will hold the key to government formation - are predicting not-so-bright future for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

One such politician is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-see-reduced-seat-count-in-up-draw-blank-in-seven-other-states-mamata-banerjee-217832">West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee</a> who said that the BJP will not win more than 150 seats in the Lok Sabha elections.

On the campaign trail, she spoke to Zee 24 Ghanta, Zee Media's Bengali language channel. "I have attended more than 100 meetings and undertook pad yatras (march on foot) in this heatwave. I think I am dehydrated," said Banerjee, smiling. But as the conversation moved towards election results and BJP's future, she turned combative.

"The BJP formed the government in 2014 because of the high number of seats it won in Uttar Pradesh. They won 73 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. But this time, they will not get more than 17 seats in UP. The alliance of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati will win 55 seats, so if you deduct 55 from 73, you'll get the actual number of seats that BJP will get," Banerjee told Zee 24 Ghanta.

"The BJP's tally will reduce to half in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. So how will they come back to power?" Banerjee added.

When asked if Congress will support a PM face from regional parties, Banerjee said, "The regional parties will get more seats than the BJP and the Congress. If there is such a situation, we can ask for Congress's support. We want to make a stable government." At the same time, she also ruled out supporting BJP in case there is a need. "I don't know how BJP is saying it will win all 42 seats in West Bengal? Everything will be clear on May 23. But the TMC will never support BJP," said Banerjee.

"If someone gives love, we are ready to wash dishes at that person's house. But if someone threatens us, we will not spare that person," added Banerjee.

Banerjee has been instrumental in forging the 'Mahagathbandhan', a group of like-minded parties who have come together to stop the BJP from forming the government. She, along with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has met leaders of various parties to take on the BJP.

Nine constituencies of West Bengal will vote in the final phase of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election on May 19. The staggered election exercise has seen more than seven weeks of campaigning.

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23.

The long electoral exercise is heading towards an end in India, with only the seventh and last phase of voting remaining. The politicians are now eagerly waiting for election results, scheduled to be announced on May 23. But before the results are out, tongues are wagging and regional leaders - who many say will hold the key to government formation - are predicting not-so-bright future for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). One such politician is West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee who said that the BJP will not win more than 150 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. On the campaign trail, she spoke to Zee 24 Ghanta, Zee Media's Bengali language channel. "I have attended more than 100 meetings and undertook pad yatras (march on foot) in this heatwave. I think I am dehydrated," said Banerjee, smiling. But as the conversation moved towards election results and BJP's future, she turned combative. "The BJP formed the government in 2014 because of the high number of seats it won in Uttar Pradesh. They won 73 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. But this time, they will not get more than 17 seats in UP. The alliance of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati will win 55 seats, so if you deduct 55 from 73, you'll get the actual number of seats that BJP will get," Banerjee told Zee 24 Ghanta. "The BJP's tally will reduce to half in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. So how will they come back to power?" Banerjee added. When asked if Congress will support a PM face from regional parties, Banerjee said, "The regional parties will get more seats than the BJP and the Congress. If there is such a situation, we can ask for Congress's support. We want to make a stable government." At the same time, she also ruled out supporting BJP in case there is a need. "I don't know how BJP is saying it will win all 42 seats in West Bengal? Everything will be clear on May 23. But the TMC will never support BJP," said Banerjee. "If someone gives love, we are ready to wash dishes at that person's house. But if someone threatens us, we will not spare that person," added Banerjee. Banerjee has been instrumental in forging the 'Mahagathbandhan', a group of like-minded parties who have come together to stop the BJP from forming the government. She, along with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has met leaders of various parties to take on the BJP. Nine constituencies of West Bengal will vote in the final phase of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election on May 19. The staggered election exercise has seen more than seven weeks of campaigning.

BJP will not get more than 150 seats in Lok Sabha polls: Mamata Banerjee

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here.

The two leaders reportedly held discussions on emerging political developments amid speculation over a hung Parliament and possibilities of forming a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front.

Both the leaders did not make any comments to the media after the meeting that comes after Rao's parleys with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram last week and discussed the possibilities in the post-poll situation,After their meeting, Vijayan had said that the meeting with Rao was "highly significant" as he asserted that regional parties will play a major role in the formation of the next government at the Centre.

"A new government will come at the Centre which will follow federal system and secularism. The state will effectively lend support to anyone who supports the development of the state. Our meeting on May 6 with KCR was highly significant," Vijayan had said.&nbsp;

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here.

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here. The two leaders reportedly held discussions on emerging political developments amid speculation over a hung Parliament and possibilities of forming a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front. Both the leaders did not make any comments to the media after the meeting that comes after Rao's parleys with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram last week and discussed the possibilities in the post-poll situation,After their meeting, Vijayan had said that the meeting with Rao was "highly significant" as he asserted that regional parties will play a major role in the formation of the next government at the Centre. "A new government will come at the Centre which will follow federal system and secularism. The state will effectively lend support to anyone who supports the development of the state. Our meeting on May 6 with KCR was highly significant," Vijayan had said.

K Chandrashekhar Rao, MK Stalin meet in Chennai, discuss emerging political developments

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/west-bengal-government-stops-amit-shah-from-holding-rally-in-jadavpur-bjp-chief-cries-foul-218367">BJP president Amit Shah on Monday</a> dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state.

Addressing a rally in Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said Banerjee has turned "sonar Bangla (golden Bengal) into kangal (pauper) Bangla".

"Mamata didi gets angry if someone chants 'Jai Shri Ram'. I am chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' here today, if you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow." 
A video clip showing Banerjee fuming at people for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in Ghatal Lok Sabha seat went viral on social media recently.

Hitting out at the TMC government for denying him permission to land his chopper at Baruipur in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. Can you (Banerjee) prevent your defeat this way?"

The TMC can stop me from attending rallies but can't stop the victory march of the BJP in Bengal," he maintained.

Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold the public address at Baruipur area.

Referring to infiltrators as "termites", who are eating into the resources of this country, the BJP boss said his party will throw them out from Bengal after coming to power at the Centre for a second term.

"We will restore the glory of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee has turned Sonar (golden) Bangla into Kangal (pauper) Bangla. She is only interested in protecting infiltrators to secure her vote bank. But her vote bank won't be able to save her from imminent defeat," he asserted.

Alleging that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious NRC, was misleading people, he vowed to implement it across the country after winning the polls. 
The National Register of Citizens (NRC) aims to separate genuine citizens from illegal immigrants.

"After May 23, we will bring citizenship (Amendment) Bill to grant citizenship to our refugee brothers from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain community," he said.

Maintaining that Modi has been working for the development of the country, Shah said the opposition parties are working to secure the future of their families.

"The opposition leaders are trying to secure the future of their relatives - be it brother, husband, son, son-in-law or nephew. But Modi is working only to secure the future of the country. I have been touring the entire country, chants of 'Phir Ekbar Modi Sarkar' (Modi government, once again) are resonating everywhere," he said.

Lashing out at the chief minister for allegedly running a "syndicate raj" in the state, the BJP president claimed that the TMC works to benefit the CM's nephew, Abhishek Banerjee.

"Earlier it was syndicate tax, now it has been replaced by nephew tax. We have to throw out this corrupt government of Bua-Bhatija (Aunt and Nephew). We will defeat this corrupt regime," he stated.

Shah also iterated that Banerjee, along with other opposition leaders, is keen on holding talks with Pakistan, even after the Pulwama attack in Kashmir.

"If you are interested in holding a dialogue with Pakistan, you can go ahead. We will respond to their bullets with cannon balls," Shah said.

He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to hinder Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations in the state, stating that the CM was trying to use religion as a political tool.

"If Bengalis do not conduct Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja here, will they conduct it in Pakistan? The people of Bengal will give a befitting reply to Mamata Banerjee in this election," he said.

The state, which was once known for Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's songs, has become a hub of illegal "bomb and gun making factories", Shah claimed.

"Under the TMC rule all three - mother, motherland and people are suffering," he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state.

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram', claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal but not BJP's victory march in the state. Addressing a rally in Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said Banerjee has turned "sonar Bangla (golden Bengal) into kangal (pauper) Bangla". "Mamata didi gets angry if someone chants 'Jai Shri Ram'. I am chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' here today, if you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow." A video clip showing Banerjee fuming at people for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in Ghatal Lok Sabha seat went viral on social media recently. Hitting out at the TMC government for denying him permission to land his chopper at Baruipur in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. Can you (Banerjee) prevent your defeat this way?" The TMC can stop me from attending rallies but can't stop the victory march of the BJP in Bengal," he maintained. Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold the public address at Baruipur area. Referring to infiltrators as "termites", who are eating into the resources of this country, the BJP boss said his party will throw them out from Bengal after coming to power at the Centre for a second term. "We will restore the glory of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee has turned Sonar (golden) Bangla into Kangal (pauper) Bangla. She is only interested in protecting infiltrators to secure her vote bank. But her vote bank won't be able to save her from imminent defeat," he asserted. Alleging that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious NRC, was misleading people, he vowed to implement it across the country after winning the polls. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) aims to separate genuine citizens from illegal immigrants. "After May 23, we will bring citizenship (Amendment) Bill to grant citizenship to our refugee brothers from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain community," he said. Maintaining that Modi has been working for the development of the country, Shah said the opposition parties are working to secure the future of their families. "The opposition leaders are trying to secure the future of their relatives - be it brother, husband, son, son-in-law or nephew. But Modi is working only to secure the future of the country. I have been touring the entire country, chants of 'Phir Ekbar Modi Sarkar' (Modi government, once again) are resonating everywhere," he said. Lashing out at the chief minister for allegedly running a "syndicate raj" in the state, the BJP president claimed that the TMC works to benefit the CM's nephew, Abhishek Banerjee. "Earlier it was syndicate tax, now it has been replaced by nephew tax. We have to throw out this corrupt government of Bua-Bhatija (Aunt and Nephew). We will defeat this corrupt regime," he stated. Shah also iterated that Banerjee, along with other opposition leaders, is keen on holding talks with Pakistan, even after the Pulwama attack in Kashmir. "If you are interested in holding a dialogue with Pakistan, you can go ahead. We will respond to their bullets with cannon balls," Shah said. He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to hinder Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations in the state, stating that the CM was trying to use religion as a political tool. "If Bengalis do not conduct Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja here, will they conduct it in Pakistan? The people of Bengal will give a befitting reply to Mamata Banerjee in this election," he said. The state, which was once known for Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's songs, has become a hub of illegal "bomb and gun making factories", Shah claimed. "Under the TMC rule all three - mother, motherland and people are suffering," he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party.

Trinamool Congress can stop me from attending rallies, not BJP's victory: Amit Shah

A Delhi court on Monday admitted a criminal defamation case against BJP leaders Manoj Tiwari and Harish Khurana for allegedly making defamatory statements against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after he was slapped by a man on May 4.

The case in this regard was filed by President of Aam Admi Party Jhuggi Jhopdi (JJ) cell Sushil Chauhan.

"Both the BJP party leaders showed a photo of the attacker in the press conference and Twitter and claimed that he was an AAP member," Chauhan said in his petition, calling the allegations levelled by the BJP leaders, baseless.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal has directed the petitioner to bring evidence, CD or pen drive and documents proofs to ascertain his claims, in the next hearing.

The matter is slated to be heard on May 30. On May 4, Kejriwal was slapped by a man, who was later identified as Suresh, in West Delhi while campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections.

The CM had stepped on to an open jeep and was shaking hands with supporters and waving at the gathering when Suresh wearing a maroon shirt climbed on to the vehicle and landed a slap on his face.

AAP supporters immediately pulled him down and thrashed him.&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Monday admitted a criminal defamation case against BJP leaders Manoj Tiwari and Harish Khurana for allegedly making defamatory statements against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after he was slapped by a man on May 4.

A Delhi court on Monday admitted a criminal defamation case against BJP leaders Manoj Tiwari and Harish Khurana for allegedly making defamatory statements against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after he was slapped by a man on May 4. The case in this regard was filed by President of Aam Admi Party Jhuggi Jhopdi (JJ) cell Sushil Chauhan. "Both the BJP party leaders showed a photo of the attacker in the press conference and Twitter and claimed that he was an AAP member," Chauhan said in his petition, calling the allegations levelled by the BJP leaders, baseless. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal has directed the petitioner to bring evidence, CD or pen drive and documents proofs to ascertain his claims, in the next hearing. The matter is slated to be heard on May 30. On May 4, Kejriwal was slapped by a man, who was later identified as Suresh, in West Delhi while campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections. The CM had stepped on to an open jeep and was shaking hands with supporters and waving at the gathering when Suresh wearing a maroon shirt climbed on to the vehicle and landed a slap on his face. AAP supporters immediately pulled him down and thrashed him.

Delhi court admits defamation case against Manoj Tiwari, Harish Khurana

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the Congress party saying that they ask for votes in the name of legacy but "when questioned on their (ancestors) misdeeds, they say 'hua to hua'".

The Prime Minister was referring to Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-bjp-slam-pitroda-over-remarks-on-1984-anti-sikh-riots-congress-distances-itself-217586">Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots</a>.&nbsp;

Pitroda, on Thursday, said, "hua to hua" (So what, it happened) about the anti-Sikh riots. He made this remark in response to a question on the riots by a newsman in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

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PM Narendra Modi in Solan, Himachal Pradesh: They ask for votes in the name of their ancestors, but when questioned on their (ancestors) misdeeds, they say "hua to hua" <a href="https://t.co/9jI8pWISa5">pic.twitter.com/9jI8pWISa5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1127881289959333889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While addressing a rally in Solan, Himachal Pradesh today, PM Modi continued&nbsp;to sharpen his attack on the Congress and said that "those who are themselves on bail search new words from their dictionary daily to abuse your 'chowkidaar'".

He said that he is not going to budge by those abuses, adding "aakhirkar humne bhi to Solan ka mushroom khaya hai (after all, I have also eaten Solan's mushrooms)".

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PM Modi in Solan, Himachal Pradesh: Those who are themselves on bail search new words from their dictionary daily to abuse your 'chowkidaar'. But your 'chowkidaar' is not going to budge because of their abuses, "aakhirkar humne bhi to Solan ka mushroom khaya hai" <a href="https://t.co/byvqi6Sfvb">pic.twitter.com/byvqi6Sfvb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1127880860206653440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi today said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/you-should-be-ashamed-rahul-gandhi-hits-out-at-sam-pitroda-for-remarks-on-1984-riots-218338">Pitroda should be "ashamed" of his remarks</a> on anti-Sikh riots.&nbsp;

"What Sam Pitroda said about 1984 (anti-Sikh riots) was totally wrong and he should seek an apology from the country. I am saying this publicly and I also said the same to him over the phone. Pitroda ji, what you had said was completely wrong and you should be ashamed of yourself. You should seek a public apology," Gandhi said during a rally in Punjab's Khanna.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the Congress party saying that they ask for votes in the name of legacy but "when questioned on their (ancestors) misdeeds, they say 'hua to hua'".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the Congress party saying that they ask for votes in the name of legacy but "when questioned on their (ancestors) misdeeds, they say 'hua to hua'". The Prime Minister was referring to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots. Pitroda, on Thursday, said, "hua to hua" (So what, it happened) about the anti-Sikh riots. He made this remark in response to a question on the riots by a newsman in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. PM Narendra Modi in Solan, Himachal Pradesh: They ask for votes in the name of their ancestors, but when questioned on their (ancestors) misdeeds, they say "hua to hua" pic.twitter.com/9jI8pWISa5 — ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2019 × While addressing a rally in Solan, Himachal Pradesh today, PM Modi continued to sharpen his attack on the Congress and said that "those who are themselves on bail search new words from their dictionary daily to abuse your 'chowkidaar'". He said that he is not going to budge by those abuses, adding "aakhirkar humne bhi to Solan ka mushroom khaya hai (after all, I have also eaten Solan's mushrooms)". PM Modi in Solan, Himachal Pradesh: Those who are themselves on bail search new words from their dictionary daily to abuse your 'chowkidaar'. But your 'chowkidaar' is not going to budge because of their abuses, "aakhirkar humne bhi to Solan ka mushroom khaya hai" pic.twitter.com/byvqi6Sfvb — ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2019 × Meanwhile, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi today said that Pitroda should be "ashamed" of his remarks on anti-Sikh riots. "What Sam Pitroda said about 1984 (anti-Sikh riots) was totally wrong and he should seek an apology from the country. I am saying this publicly and I also said the same to him over the phone. Pitroda ji, what you had said was completely wrong and you should be ashamed of yourself. You should seek a public apology," Gandhi said during a rally in Punjab's Khanna.

They want votes in name of legacy but when it comes to answering questions, they say 'hua to hua': PM Modi

BJP's President Amit Shah was supposed to hold three rallies in the state but his Jadavpur rally cancelled after not getting permission for same. Watch this video to know more.

BJP: TMC scared that Mamata's nephew may lose polls

Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party cadres clashed again over the cancelled programme of BJP president Amit Shah who was supposed to hold a rally at Jadavpur constituency in West Bengal today. &nbsp;

Shah would now hold only two rallies in the state instead of three.

In his first rally in North 24 Parganas district, an angry Shah attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee and said that the reason why he was not allowed to hold a rally in Jadavpur was that Banerjee fears that her nephew may lose the elections.&nbsp;

Teasing Mamata, he said that the state administration can arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in the public. A couple of days back, Mamata had derided a youth for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' when her cavalcade was passing by.

The BJP has approached the Election Commission against the state administration's move to bar Shah from holding a rally in Jadavpur.&nbsp;

The party has emerged as a powerful opposition in the state after the 2014 general elections where its voter share crossed double digit.

The BJP sees states like Odisha and West Bengal as the new harvest areas that can help offset losses in Uttar Pradesh in the case of the 'grand alliance' succeeding in the state this general polls.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party cadres clashed again over the cancelled programme of BJP president Amit Shah who was supposed to hold a rally at Jadavpur constituency in West Bengal today.

Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party cadres clashed again over the cancelled programme of BJP president Amit Shah who was supposed to hold a rally at Jadavpur constituency in West Bengal today. Shah would now hold only two rallies in the state instead of three. In his first rally in North 24 Parganas district, an angry Shah attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee and said that the reason why he was not allowed to hold a rally in Jadavpur was that Banerjee fears that her nephew may lose the elections. Teasing Mamata, he said that the state administration can arrest him for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' in the public. A couple of days back, Mamata had derided a youth for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' when her cavalcade was passing by. The BJP has approached the Election Commission against the state administration's move to bar Shah from holding a rally in Jadavpur. The party has emerged as a powerful opposition in the state after the 2014 general elections where its voter share crossed double digit. The BJP sees states like Odisha and West Bengal as the new harvest areas that can help offset losses in Uttar Pradesh in the case of the 'grand alliance' succeeding in the state this general polls.

West Bengal government stops Amit Shah from holding rally in Jadavpur, BJP chief cries foul 

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP continuing their attack on the Congress over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-bjp-slam-pitroda-over-remarks-on-1984-anti-sikh-riots-congress-distances-itself-217586">Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots</a>, party chief Rahul Gandhi Monday said the leader should be ashamed of himself and seek apology from the country.

Gandhi was addressing a poll rally here in favour of Congress candidate Amar Singh, who is pitted against SAD nominee D S Guru from Fatehgarh Sahib (reserve) constituency.

"What Sam Pitroda said about 1984 (anti-Sikh riots) was totally wrong and he should seek an apology from the country. I am saying this publicly and I also said the same to him over the phone. Pitroda ji, what you had said was completely wrong and you should be ashamed of yourself. You should seek a public apology," he said winding up his speech here.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh was also present at the event.

The BJP has stepped up offensive against the Congress over the Indian Overseas Congress chief's remarks as the 1984 anti-Sikh riots is an emotive issue in Punjab which is going to polls on May 19.

During campaigning in Rohtak in Haryana and at Hoshiarpur in Punjab, Modi on Friday had hit out at the Congress, saying Pitroda's remarks reflected the "character and arrogance" of the opposition party.

On Sunday in Amritsar, BJP chief Amit Shah had asked Gandhi whether the matter has ended with Pitroda tendering an apology for "justifying" the Sikh genocide.&nbsp;

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP continuing their attack on the Congress over Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots, party chief Rahul Gandhi Monday said the leader should be ashamed of himself and seek apology from the country.

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP continuing their attack on the Congress over Sam Pitroda's remarks on the 1984 riots, party chief Rahul Gandhi Monday said the leader should be ashamed of himself and seek apology from the country. Gandhi was addressing a poll rally here in favour of Congress candidate Amar Singh, who is pitted against SAD nominee D S Guru from Fatehgarh Sahib (reserve) constituency. "What Sam Pitroda said about 1984 (anti-Sikh riots) was totally wrong and he should seek an apology from the country. I am saying this publicly and I also said the same to him over the phone. Pitroda ji, what you had said was completely wrong and you should be ashamed of yourself. You should seek a public apology," he said winding up his speech here. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh was also present at the event. The BJP has stepped up offensive against the Congress over the Indian Overseas Congress chief's remarks as the 1984 anti-Sikh riots is an emotive issue in Punjab which is going to polls on May 19. During campaigning in Rohtak in Haryana and at Hoshiarpur in Punjab, Modi on Friday had hit out at the Congress, saying Pitroda's remarks reflected the "character and arrogance" of the opposition party. On Sunday in Amritsar, BJP chief Amit Shah had asked Gandhi whether the matter has ended with Pitroda tendering an apology for "justifying" the Sikh genocide.

You should be ashamed: Rahul Gandhi hits out at Sam Pitroda for remarks on 1984 riots

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday accused BJP of taking the country backwards, saying the 'gathbandhan'&nbsp;government (grand alliance) will leave no stone unturned to build a new India.

"They (BJP) said they will build a new India. In the last five years, development has come to a halt. They are not debating on the damages caused due to GST and demonetisation. They are not talking about what work they have done in five years. They are hatching a conspiracy to come to power," Yadav said at a joint rally, which was also attended by BSP chief Mayawati and RLD chief Ajit Singh.

"They snatched your jobs and education of children. They are working to take this nation backwards. But, 'gathbandhan'&nbsp;will ensure that our country moves forward. Gathbandhan will give a new prime minister, who will make a new India," he added.

Launching a fresh attack on BJP for not doing enough to address farmers'&nbsp;plight, Yadav said, "BJP promised to give Rs 1.5 lakh loan waiver to farmers. How many of them have got? Have the income of farmers doubled?"

Taking a dig at BJP's fight against terror, Yadav said if the ruling party was "scared" of a Jawan (former BSF soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav), then "how come they say that they have eliminated terrorism."

"These people showed dreams to the youth that jobs will be provided. But no employment opportunity was given to them and today youth are sitting at home. Inflation has also increased. Prices of petrol, diesel and gas connections have skyrocketed," he added.

Accusing BJP of coming to power by spreading "lies" and "hatred", Yadav said there is a need to remove 'chowkidar'&nbsp;(Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and 'thokidar'&nbsp;(Adityanath).

"These people betrayed you and came to power. He came to power by becoming a 'chaiwala'&nbsp;(tea seller). Now you know what is the taste of the tea? We need to remove both 'chowkidar'&nbsp;from Delhi and 'thokidar'&nbsp;from Lucknow," he said.

Yadav also accused Adityanath of adopting a 'thoko niti'&nbsp;(shoot at sight approach).

"Police has forgotten whom to shoot. People are also shooting at the police. Such a culture was not there before. We need to remove this 'thokidar'&nbsp;soon," he said.

From Gorakhpur parliamentary constituency, SP-BSP alliance has fielded Ram Bhuwal Nishad against Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan of BJP and Congress'&nbsp;Madhusudan Tiwari. (ANI)He claimed 'gathbandhan'&nbsp;was ahead after six phases of polling and no one fight against the alliance.

Gorakhpur is one of the 13 Lok Sabha seats which will go to polls on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday accused BJP of taking the country backwards, saying the 'gathbandhan' government (grand alliance) will leave no stone unturned to build a new India.

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday accused BJP of taking the country backwards, saying the 'gathbandhan' government (grand alliance) will leave no stone unturned to build a new India. "They (BJP) said they will build a new India. In the last five years, development has come to a halt. They are not debating on the damages caused due to GST and demonetisation. They are not talking about what work they have done in five years. They are hatching a conspiracy to come to power," Yadav said at a joint rally, which was also attended by BSP chief Mayawati and RLD chief Ajit Singh. "They snatched your jobs and education of children. They are working to take this nation backwards. But, 'gathbandhan' will ensure that our country moves forward. Gathbandhan will give a new prime minister, who will make a new India," he added. Launching a fresh attack on BJP for not doing enough to address farmers' plight, Yadav said, "BJP promised to give Rs 1.5 lakh loan waiver to farmers. How many of them have got? Have the income of farmers doubled?" Taking a dig at BJP's fight against terror, Yadav said if the ruling party was "scared" of a Jawan (former BSF soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav), then "how come they say that they have eliminated terrorism." "These people showed dreams to the youth that jobs will be provided. But no employment opportunity was given to them and today youth are sitting at home. Inflation has also increased. Prices of petrol, diesel and gas connections have skyrocketed," he added. Accusing BJP of coming to power by spreading "lies" and "hatred", Yadav said there is a need to remove 'chowkidar' (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and 'thokidar' (Adityanath). "These people betrayed you and came to power. He came to power by becoming a 'chaiwala' (tea seller). Now you know what is the taste of the tea? We need to remove both 'chowkidar' from Delhi and 'thokidar' from Lucknow," he said. Yadav also accused Adityanath of adopting a 'thoko niti' (shoot at sight approach). "Police has forgotten whom to shoot. People are also shooting at the police. Such a culture was not there before. We need to remove this 'thokidar' soon," he said. From Gorakhpur parliamentary constituency, SP-BSP alliance has fielded Ram Bhuwal Nishad against Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan of BJP and Congress' Madhusudan Tiwari. (ANI)He claimed 'gathbandhan' was ahead after six phases of polling and no one fight against the alliance. Gorakhpur is one of the 13 Lok Sabha seats which will go to polls on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

PM candidate from 'gathbandhan' will build 'new India': Akhilesh Yadav

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh, committed a "big sin" by not casting his vote.

Singh, a registered voter at his hometown Raghogarh in the state's Rajgarh Lok Sabha seat, did not exercise his franchise during the polling held there on Sunday.

The Congress leader, who is pitted against BJP leader and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, stayed put in Bhopal, asking people to come out and vote.

"Diggy Raja you have committed a big sin...In the festival of democracy, the President, Vice President stood in queues to cast their votes, but Diggy Raja did not," Modi said at a rally in the state's Ratlam district.

"His (Singh's) arrogance came to light yesterday in Bhopal. When people are electing their representatives and even I exercised my franchise in Ahmedabad, Diggy Raja neither cared for democracy nor people," he said in remarks laced with sarcasm.

"You (Singh) were very busy asking people to vote... save me. Why you are so frightened of losing your job?" the prime minister asked.

Modi said even the Narmada yatra, a religious pilgrimage undertaken by Singh last year, would not come to his rescue in the Lok Sabha elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh, committed a "big sin" by not casting his vote.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh, committed a "big sin" by not casting his vote. Singh, a registered voter at his hometown Raghogarh in the state's Rajgarh Lok Sabha seat, did not exercise his franchise during the polling held there on Sunday. The Congress leader, who is pitted against BJP leader and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur, stayed put in Bhopal, asking people to come out and vote. "Diggy Raja you have committed a big sin...In the festival of democracy, the President, Vice President stood in queues to cast their votes, but Diggy Raja did not," Modi said at a rally in the state's Ratlam district. "His (Singh's) arrogance came to light yesterday in Bhopal. When people are electing their representatives and even I exercised my franchise in Ahmedabad, Diggy Raja neither cared for democracy nor people," he said in remarks laced with sarcasm. "You (Singh) were very busy asking people to vote... save me. Why you are so frightened of losing your job?" the prime minister asked. Modi said even the Narmada yatra, a religious pilgrimage undertaken by Singh last year, would not come to his rescue in the Lok Sabha elections.

Digvijaya committed 'big sin' by not voting, says PM Narendra Modi

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma said BSP president Mayawati is suffering from "political depression" as she fears defeat of her party's candidates in the general election underway and as a result, she is losing her temper and patience.

Sharma claimed Mayawati is showing weakness and her memory is fading.

"All these symptoms are clearly visible in the statements of the BSP supremo," he told PTI in an interview. He said the Bahujan Samaj Party supremo needed a "political health tonic".

Mayawati, who is leading the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in UP with Akhilesh Yadav, has regularly hit out at the BJP on Twitter and in campaign rallies, claiming that its government at the Centre is "autocratic" and has resorted to various means to "scare" senior leaders of the opposition parties.

She has said the Centre "badly failed" to tackle issues like terrorism and Naxalism. Ahead of the second phase of the seven-phase poll, the BSP chief was banned for 48 hours from campaigning by the Election Commission for violating the moral code of conduct.

Three others, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, were also banned for varying periods over similar reasons.

Shortly after the ban ended on April 18, Mayawati lashed out at BJP and its leaders for levelling "unfounded" charges on opposition parties, including the allegation they were abusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The BJP is facing a challenge from the alliance in Uttar Pradesh, which has the largest number of Lok Sabha seats, 80, compared to any other state.

"BSP chief Mayawati is suffering from political depression (rajnaitik avsaad), which stems from the fact that her party fared badly in the past five phases in the state, and the defeat of BSP candidates is imminent in the last two phases. It's the same with her alliance partners," Sharma said.

He claimed the symptoms of her "depression" will become more evident in coming days and she will make "anaap, shanaap" (loose) remarks.

"It is for this reason that she is calling the prime minister a 'fake backward'. She must revamp her memory, and for this, she needs a political health tonic," the deputy chief minister said.

Asked what he meant by "political health tonic", Sharma said, "Once dignity, transparency and uprightness are adopted, it will work as a political health tonic (for her). By using undignified words, the political health will certainly not improve."

Mayawati has raised doubts on the caste of the prime minister, alleging he is a "farzi backward" - a fake OBC leader. Modi has responded saying he belongs to the caste of all the poor in the country.

On Sunday, a full-scale war of words broke out between Mayawati and Modi over the gangrape of a Dalit girl in Rajasthan's Alwar. The prime minister accused the BSP chief of shedding "crocodile tears" and asked her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan if she cared for Dalits.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma said BSP president Mayawati is suffering from "political depression" as she fears defeat of her party's candidates in the general election underway and as a result, she is losing her temper and patience.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma said BSP president Mayawati is suffering from "political depression" as she fears defeat of her party's candidates in the general election underway and as a result, she is losing her temper and patience. Sharma claimed Mayawati is showing weakness and her memory is fading. "All these symptoms are clearly visible in the statements of the BSP supremo," he told PTI in an interview. He said the Bahujan Samaj Party supremo needed a "political health tonic". Mayawati, who is leading the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in UP with Akhilesh Yadav, has regularly hit out at the BJP on Twitter and in campaign rallies, claiming that its government at the Centre is "autocratic" and has resorted to various means to "scare" senior leaders of the opposition parties. She has said the Centre "badly failed" to tackle issues like terrorism and Naxalism. Ahead of the second phase of the seven-phase poll, the BSP chief was banned for 48 hours from campaigning by the Election Commission for violating the moral code of conduct. Three others, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, were also banned for varying periods over similar reasons. Shortly after the ban ended on April 18, Mayawati lashed out at BJP and its leaders for levelling "unfounded" charges on opposition parties, including the allegation they were abusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP is facing a challenge from the alliance in Uttar Pradesh, which has the largest number of Lok Sabha seats, 80, compared to any other state. "BSP chief Mayawati is suffering from political depression (rajnaitik avsaad), which stems from the fact that her party fared badly in the past five phases in the state, and the defeat of BSP candidates is imminent in the last two phases. It's the same with her alliance partners," Sharma said. He claimed the symptoms of her "depression" will become more evident in coming days and she will make "anaap, shanaap" (loose) remarks. "It is for this reason that she is calling the prime minister a 'fake backward'. She must revamp her memory, and for this, she needs a political health tonic," the deputy chief minister said. Asked what he meant by "political health tonic", Sharma said, "Once dignity, transparency and uprightness are adopted, it will work as a political health tonic (for her). By using undignified words, the political health will certainly not improve." Mayawati has raised doubts on the caste of the prime minister, alleging he is a "farzi backward" - a fake OBC leader. Modi has responded saying he belongs to the caste of all the poor in the country. On Sunday, a full-scale war of words broke out between Mayawati and Modi over the gangrape of a Dalit girl in Rajasthan's Alwar. The prime minister accused the BSP chief of shedding "crocodile tears" and asked her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan if she cared for Dalits.

Mayawati suffering from 'political depression', needs health tonic: UP Dy CM Dinesh Sharma

BJP national president Amit Shah Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting "Jai Shri Ram", claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal, but won't be able to stop BJP's victory march in the state.

Addressing a rally at Canning, which comes under Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said, "Mamatadi gets angry if someone chants Jai Shri Ram. I am chanting Jai Shri Ram here today. If you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow."

Hitting out at the TMC government over denial of permission for his chopper to land in Baruipur, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. The TMC can stop me from addressing rallies, but can't stop the victory march of BJP in Bengal."

Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold a public address at Baruipur.

BJP national president Amit Shah Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting "Jai Shri Ram", claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal, but won't be able to stop BJP's victory march in the state.

BJP national president Amit Shah Monday dared West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to arrest him for chanting "Jai Shri Ram", claiming that the TMC supremo can stop him from attending rallies in Bengal, but won't be able to stop BJP's victory march in the state. Addressing a rally at Canning, which comes under Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency, he said, "Mamatadi gets angry if someone chants Jai Shri Ram. I am chanting Jai Shri Ram here today. If you (Mamata) have the guts, arrest me. I will be in Kolkata tomorrow." Hitting out at the TMC government over denial of permission for his chopper to land in Baruipur, Shah said, "The Mamata Banerjee government is visibly perplexed. She wants to stop me from attending rallies. The TMC can stop me from addressing rallies, but can't stop the victory march of BJP in Bengal." Shah's scheduled rally in Jadavpur Lok Sabha seat was called off on Monday after the state government denied him permission to land his chopper and hold a public address at Baruipur.

If you have guts, arrest me for chanting 'Jai Shri Ram': Shah's challenge to Mamata

The Supreme Court Monday dismissed a plea seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to advance poll timings to 5:30 am from 7 am for the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls in view of searing heat and the month of Ramzan.&nbsp;

A vacation bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and Sanjiv Khanna rejected the plea, saying the notified timing of voting is from 7 am to 6 pm and voters can cast vote in the morning also.

"The timings are from 7 am to 6 pm. People can come in the morning to cast their votes. They (EC) will face the logistical problem (if timings are advanced)," the bench told advocate Mohammad Nizamuddin Pasha who had filed the petition.&nbsp;

On May 2, the top court had asked the poll panel to pass "necessary orders" on a representation seeking advancing of voting timing for the remaining phase of Lok Sabha polls, which the EC had rejected on May 5.

The poll panel had turned down his representation as being "administratively not feasible".

Following the poll panel's decision, Pasha had approached the apex court with his plea,&nbsp;

"The reasoning given by the respondent (EC) in its order dated May 5 is ex-facie self-contradictory as the respondent claims it has already taken acute hot weather conditions and festivals into account in fixing poll timing but still has passed orders fixing the same standard polling hours that are issued in every election at any time in any part of the country," the plea had said.

Polling for the seventh phase of elections will be held on May 19.

The petitioner had earlier told the top court that during Ramzan, Muslims keep fast.

The plea had said the India Meteorological Department has issued warning indicating severe heatwave conditions over the next few days in poll-bound areas of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.

The petitioner had said harsh weather conditions would make it difficult for Muslims to go out and vote.

The Supreme Court Monday dismissed a plea seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to advance poll timings to 5:30 am from 7 am for the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls in view of searing heat and the month of Ramzan.

The Supreme Court Monday dismissed a plea seeking a direction to the Election Commission (EC) to advance poll timings to 5:30 am from 7 am for the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls in view of searing heat and the month of Ramzan. A vacation bench comprising Justices Indira Banerjee and Sanjiv Khanna rejected the plea, saying the notified timing of voting is from 7 am to 6 pm and voters can cast vote in the morning also. "The timings are from 7 am to 6 pm. People can come in the morning to cast their votes. They (EC) will face the logistical problem (if timings are advanced)," the bench told advocate Mohammad Nizamuddin Pasha who had filed the petition. On May 2, the top court had asked the poll panel to pass "necessary orders" on a representation seeking advancing of voting timing for the remaining phase of Lok Sabha polls, which the EC had rejected on May 5. The poll panel had turned down his representation as being "administratively not feasible". Following the poll panel's decision, Pasha had approached the apex court with his plea, "The reasoning given by the respondent (EC) in its order dated May 5 is ex-facie self-contradictory as the respondent claims it has already taken acute hot weather conditions and festivals into account in fixing poll timing but still has passed orders fixing the same standard polling hours that are issued in every election at any time in any part of the country," the plea had said. Polling for the seventh phase of elections will be held on May 19. The petitioner had earlier told the top court that during Ramzan, Muslims keep fast. The plea had said the India Meteorological Department has issued warning indicating severe heatwave conditions over the next few days in poll-bound areas of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. The petitioner had said harsh weather conditions would make it difficult for Muslims to go out and vote.

Supreme Court dismisses plea to advance poll timing in Lok Sabha election

The Tamil Nadu unit of teh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lashed out at actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan for his controversial statement on Nathuram Godse. At a rally on Sunday, Haasan had sought to link Godse with terrorism.

The clip ended with Haasan saying that he wished for an equal India and that it was the wish of all true Indians that the three colours of the National Flag remain intact. "I am a good Indian and can thump my chest and say that," he added.

"Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) is a poisonous plant that needs to be nipped in the bud. Denigrating Hindus for Muslim votes. Did the coward condemn the murder of Ramalingam? (sic)" BJP national secretary H Raja said on Twitter slamming Kamal Haasan's remarks. Raja is contestng the Lok Sabha polls from Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga parliamentary constituency.

BJP's Tamil Nadu unit president Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan urged the Election Commission to take cognizance of the statement and order strict action. She also said that the Election Commission had banned a few leaders from campaigning (in North India) after they made controversial remarks. She also added that Gandhi's assassination had shocked the nation and cannot be justified in any way.

Actor vivek Oberoi, who is portraying Prime Minister Narendra Modi in soon to release biopic condemned Kamal Haasan's comments. "Please sir, from a much smaller artist to a great one, let's not divide this country, we are one. Jai Hind."

Haasan's MNM that was started in February last year. The party is contesting all Lok Sabha and Assembly seats in Tamil Nadu. Haasan, however, has decided not to contest the elections and said that every candidate represents his own face.

The Tamil Nadu unit of teh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lashed out at actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan for his controversial statement on Nathuram Godse.

The Tamil Nadu unit of teh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lashed out at actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan for his controversial statement on Nathuram Godse. At a rally on Sunday, Haasan had sought to link Godse with terrorism. The clip ended with Haasan saying that he wished for an equal India and that it was the wish of all true Indians that the three colours of the National Flag remain intact. "I am a good Indian and can thump my chest and say that," he added. "Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) is a poisonous plant that needs to be nipped in the bud. Denigrating Hindus for Muslim votes. Did the coward condemn the murder of Ramalingam? (sic)" BJP national secretary H Raja said on Twitter slamming Kamal Haasan's remarks. Raja is contestng the Lok Sabha polls from Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga parliamentary constituency. BJP's Tamil Nadu unit president Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan urged the Election Commission to take cognizance of the statement and order strict action. She also said that the Election Commission had banned a few leaders from campaigning (in North India) after they made controversial remarks. She also added that Gandhi's assassination had shocked the nation and cannot be justified in any way. Actor vivek Oberoi, who is portraying Prime Minister Narendra Modi in soon to release biopic condemned Kamal Haasan's comments. "Please sir, from a much smaller artist to a great one, let's not divide this country, we are one. Jai Hind." Haasan's MNM that was started in February last year. The party is contesting all Lok Sabha and Assembly seats in Tamil Nadu. Haasan, however, has decided not to contest the elections and said that every candidate represents his own face.

Tamil Nadu BJP leaders ask Election Commission to take strict action against Kamal Haasan for Godse remark

Voting is underway for 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eights constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven seats in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

Over 10.17 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise to choose among the 979 candidates in the fray. The Election Commission has set up over 1.13 lakh polling stations for smooth conduct of polls.

As it happened: Sixth phase polling of Lok Sabha elections 2019

Watch: In conversation with Andrew Whitehead, a former BBC India correspondent on India's General Elections in which the 6th phase of voting is taking place today. Watch full video to know more.

In conversation with Andrew Whitehead, former BBC India correspondent on India's General Elections

Congress General Secretary for UP (East), Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after casting her vote in Delhi: It's a really important election because we are fighting to save democracy, for our country, and keeping that in mind I cast my vote.

Priyanka Gandhi speaks to media after casting her vote at Lodhi estate in New Delhi

Delhi: UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi arrives to cast her vote at a polling booth in Nirman Bhavan along with Delhi's former CM Sheila Dikshit. Watch full video to know more.

Delhi: UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi arrives to cast vote at a polling booth in Nirman Bhavan