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The West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights ordered the arrest of BJP Diamond Harbour candidate Nilanjan Roy for allegedly molesting a minor girl. The Commission has demanded him arrested within 24 hours.&nbsp;

Elections to the Diamond Harbour constituency are scheduled to be held on May 19.&nbsp;

In a statement, the West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights said, “Taking cognizance following a complaint received by the commission in a POCSO case where the BJP candidate from the Diamond Harbour constituency in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections has been allegedly accused of sexually assaulting and outraging the modesty of a minor girl of 17 years under Falta police station, South 24 Parganas. The accused is yet to be arrested.”&nbsp;

The Commission further directed the Chief Electoral Officer to take the necessary action as per rules within 24 hours and also directed the police to arrest the alleged accused immediately under the POCSO Act, 2012. &nbsp;

The incident came to light when the Shiv Sena candidate Santosh Kumar from the same constituency wrote to the Commission seeking immediate action against the alleged accused Nilanjan Roy.&nbsp;

In his letter, Kumar stated, “The father was asked to wait outside when the minor girl was made to meet Roy to discuss the issue that had transpired earlier with other BJP supporters. Upon meeting him, it appears that instead of helping the minor girl, Roy carried out a sexual assault and harassed her”.&nbsp;

BJP candidate Roy could not be reached for comment.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a complaint has been filed by the father of the minor girl at Falta police station. Charges under sections 354 IPC and sections 8 and 12 of the POCSO Act, 2012 have been slapped against Roy.&nbsp;

The West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights ordered the arrest of BJP Diamond Harbour candidate Nilanjan Roy for allegedly molesting a minor girl.

The West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights ordered the arrest of BJP Diamond Harbour candidate Nilanjan Roy for allegedly molesting a minor girl. The Commission has demanded him arrested within 24 hours. Elections to the Diamond Harbour constituency are scheduled to be held on May 19. In a statement, the West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights said, “Taking cognizance following a complaint received by the commission in a POCSO case where the BJP candidate from the Diamond Harbour constituency in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections has been allegedly accused of sexually assaulting and outraging the modesty of a minor girl of 17 years under Falta police station, South 24 Parganas. The accused is yet to be arrested.” The Commission further directed the Chief Electoral Officer to take the necessary action as per rules within 24 hours and also directed the police to arrest the alleged accused immediately under the POCSO Act, 2012. The incident came to light when the Shiv Sena candidate Santosh Kumar from the same constituency wrote to the Commission seeking immediate action against the alleged accused Nilanjan Roy. In his letter, Kumar stated, “The father was asked to wait outside when the minor girl was made to meet Roy to discuss the issue that had transpired earlier with other BJP supporters. Upon meeting him, it appears that instead of helping the minor girl, Roy carried out a sexual assault and harassed her”. BJP candidate Roy could not be reached for comment. Meanwhile, a complaint has been filed by the father of the minor girl at Falta police station. Charges under sections 354 IPC and sections 8 and 12 of the POCSO Act, 2012 have been slapped against Roy.

West Bengal State Commission for Protection of Child Rights orders arrest of BJP candidate for molestation 

Microphones fell silent as weeks of high-octane poll campaigning in the national capital, that had all elements of a political soap opera, ended Friday evening.

The campaigning witnessed an attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, acrimonious exchanges between the AAP and the BJP over allegations of horse-trading, rivals jabbing at one another over alleged discrepancies in affidavits and even a candidate of the ruling party in Delhi breaking down in a press conference.

As many as 164 candidates, including 18 women, are in the fray for the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi which goes to polls on Sunday under the sixth phase of the general elections.

It is expected to be a three-cornered fight involving the BJP, AAP and the Congress in the seven parliamentary seats of the national capital all of which were won by the saffron party in 2014.

Prominent candidates in the fray include veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, Olympian boxer Vijender Singh, Union minister Harsh Vardhan, Atishi from AAP and her BJP rival cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir.

Voting will begin at 7 am on May 12 and scheduled to go on till 6 am.

The 48 hour-period from 6 pm Friday to 6 pm Sunday, known as the silence period, will also be observed as 'dry day'.

Earlier in the day on Friday, Delhi CEO Ranbir Singh told reporters, "The campaigning will end this evening as the 48-hour silence period will kick in at 6 pm today which would stay till 6 pm on Sunday."

A total of 13,819 polling stations will be set up at 2,700 locations in Delhi, with one model polling station in each of the 70 assembly segments. Seventeen polling stations will be staffed only by women.

As many as 523 polling locations have been identified as critical, Singh said, adding, "Special paramilitary forces will be deployed there, besides webcasting and CCTV facilities. Micro-observers would also be there. We have made all arrangements for smooth polling."

Beyond Friday's 6 pm limit, no campaigning shall be allowed, including on social media, Singh said at the press conference, adding, "All print ads need to be pre-certified for publication in any newspaper."

Before the announcement of the silence period, the AAP had scheduled to hold campaigns at few places beyond 6 pm, but the party claimed those events were cancelled.

The campaign which got off to a slow start as alliance talks between the AAP and Congress lingered on till the last days of nomination, gained momentum over the last fortnight with senior leaders drawing huge crowds at mega rallies and road shows in the national capital.

It reached a crescendo in its last lap with Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding a massive rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan here, Congress President Rahul Gandhi addressing two public meetings, while his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra taking out two road shows in the city.

The campaign also saw cine stars -- Hema Malini, Sunny Deol, Prakash Raj, Swara Bhaskar -- garnering support for the candidates.

From trying to strike a personal chord with the voters in parks at six in the morning to holding door-to-door campaigns till late night, the candidates literally sweated it out in the oppressive heat as mercury crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark.

While the BJP's campaign revolved around the party's high-pitched nationalism narrative and the popularity of Modi, the Congress kept him in the cross hairs and sought to hard sell its minimum income guarantee scheme -- Nyay.

The AAP, on the other hand, focussed on the demand for full statehood for Delhi.

Candidates also tried to out-manoeuvre each other before the poll body. AAP candidates Atishi and Raghav Chadha sought rejection of nomination papers of their BJP rivals Gautam Gambhir and Ramesh Bidhuri, respectively.

Poll officers were also hard-pressed as several Model Code of Conduct violations were reported.

In a security breach, Chief Minister Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a roadshow in Moti Nagar. Allegations of horse trading flew thick and fast as two AAP MLAs -- Anil Bajpai and Devinder Sehrawat -- crossed over to the BJP.

The campaigning also saw South Delhi BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri using a Hindi slur against Kejriwal. On a penultimate day, the AAP and the BJP sparred over a derogatory pamphlet that targeted Delhi's ruling party candidate Atishi.

The AAP alleged her rival Gautam Gambhir was behind it, a charge the former cricketer vehemently denied.

According to the summary of the electoral roll published on April 23, there are over 1.43 crore voters in Delhi -- 78,73,022 male and 64,42,762 female, while 669 belong to the third gender.

While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorates with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility.

As many as 2,674 complaints were found on 'cVigil' app out of which 2,057 were found to be correct. Nearly 270 FIRs and daily diary (DD) entries were registered against political parties and others here till date for violation of poll code, officials said.

The statistics surveillance team of Delhi's Chief Electoral Office, constituted to keep an eye on the expenses of political parties, has seized Rs 4.38 crore in cash and 1,411 kg of narcotics and drugs till date.

Police have registered 1,378 FIRs and arrested 1,381 people under the Excise Act. They have also seized 691 unlicensed arms and weapons, and 3,007 cartridges and explosives, a statement said, adding 1,14,482 people have been booked till date under various sections of the CrPC and the Delhi Police Act.&nbsp;

Microphones fell silent as weeks of high-octane poll campaigning in the national capital, that had all elements of a political soap opera, ended Friday evening. The campaigning witnessed an attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, acrimonious exchanges between the AAP and the BJP over allegations of horse-trading, rivals jabbing at one another over alleged discrepancies in affidavits and even a candidate of the ruling party in Delhi breaking down in a press conference.

Microphones fell silent as weeks of high-octane poll campaigning in the national capital, that had all elements of a political soap opera, ended Friday evening. The campaigning witnessed an attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, acrimonious exchanges between the AAP and the BJP over allegations of horse-trading, rivals jabbing at one another over alleged discrepancies in affidavits and even a candidate of the ruling party in Delhi breaking down in a press conference. As many as 164 candidates, including 18 women, are in the fray for the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi which goes to polls on Sunday under the sixth phase of the general elections. It is expected to be a three-cornered fight involving the BJP, AAP and the Congress in the seven parliamentary seats of the national capital all of which were won by the saffron party in 2014. Prominent candidates in the fray include veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, Olympian boxer Vijender Singh, Union minister Harsh Vardhan, Atishi from AAP and her BJP rival cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir. Voting will begin at 7 am on May 12 and scheduled to go on till 6 am. The 48 hour-period from 6 pm Friday to 6 pm Sunday, known as the silence period, will also be observed as 'dry day'. Earlier in the day on Friday, Delhi CEO Ranbir Singh told reporters, "The campaigning will end this evening as the 48-hour silence period will kick in at 6 pm today which would stay till 6 pm on Sunday." A total of 13,819 polling stations will be set up at 2,700 locations in Delhi, with one model polling station in each of the 70 assembly segments. Seventeen polling stations will be staffed only by women. As many as 523 polling locations have been identified as critical, Singh said, adding, "Special paramilitary forces will be deployed there, besides webcasting and CCTV facilities. Micro-observers would also be there. We have made all arrangements for smooth polling." Beyond Friday's 6 pm limit, no campaigning shall be allowed, including on social media, Singh said at the press conference, adding, "All print ads need to be pre-certified for publication in any newspaper." Before the announcement of the silence period, the AAP had scheduled to hold campaigns at few places beyond 6 pm, but the party claimed those events were cancelled. The campaign which got off to a slow start as alliance talks between the AAP and Congress lingered on till the last days of nomination, gained momentum over the last fortnight with senior leaders drawing huge crowds at mega rallies and road shows in the national capital. It reached a crescendo in its last lap with Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding a massive rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan here, Congress President Rahul Gandhi addressing two public meetings, while his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra taking out two road shows in the city. The campaign also saw cine stars -- Hema Malini, Sunny Deol, Prakash Raj, Swara Bhaskar -- garnering support for the candidates. From trying to strike a personal chord with the voters in parks at six in the morning to holding door-to-door campaigns till late night, the candidates literally sweated it out in the oppressive heat as mercury crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark. While the BJP's campaign revolved around the party's high-pitched nationalism narrative and the popularity of Modi, the Congress kept him in the cross hairs and sought to hard sell its minimum income guarantee scheme -- Nyay. The AAP, on the other hand, focussed on the demand for full statehood for Delhi. Candidates also tried to out-manoeuvre each other before the poll body. AAP candidates Atishi and Raghav Chadha sought rejection of nomination papers of their BJP rivals Gautam Gambhir and Ramesh Bidhuri, respectively. Poll officers were also hard-pressed as several Model Code of Conduct violations were reported. In a security breach, Chief Minister Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a roadshow in Moti Nagar. Allegations of horse trading flew thick and fast as two AAP MLAs -- Anil Bajpai and Devinder Sehrawat -- crossed over to the BJP. The campaigning also saw South Delhi BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri using a Hindi slur against Kejriwal. On a penultimate day, the AAP and the BJP sparred over a derogatory pamphlet that targeted Delhi's ruling party candidate Atishi. The AAP alleged her rival Gautam Gambhir was behind it, a charge the former cricketer vehemently denied. According to the summary of the electoral roll published on April 23, there are over 1.43 crore voters in Delhi -- 78,73,022 male and 64,42,762 female, while 669 belong to the third gender. While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorates with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility. As many as 2,674 complaints were found on 'cVigil' app out of which 2,057 were found to be correct. Nearly 270 FIRs and daily diary (DD) entries were registered against political parties and others here till date for violation of poll code, officials said. The statistics surveillance team of Delhi's Chief Electoral Office, constituted to keep an eye on the expenses of political parties, has seized Rs 4.38 crore in cash and 1,411 kg of narcotics and drugs till date. Police have registered 1,378 FIRs and arrested 1,381 people under the Excise Act. They have also seized 691 unlicensed arms and weapons, and 3,007 cartridges and explosives, a statement said, adding 1,14,482 people have been booked till date under various sections of the CrPC and the Delhi Police Act.

High-pitched poll campaign in Delhi ends as city votes on Sunday 

Suresh, the man who slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on May 4, expressed regret over his act.

"I don't know why I slapped him (Arvind Kejriwal). I regret it," Suresh said while talking to ANI on Thursday.

Suresh also claimed that he is not affiliated to any political party.

"I am not affiliated to any political party. Nobody asked me to do this. Police did not misbehave with me. They only said what I did was wrong," he added.

On May 4, AAP chief Kejriwal was slapped by a man (later identified as Suresh) in Moti Nagar 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 reddish maroon shirt climbed on to the vehicle and landed a slap on his face. AAP supporters immediately pulled him down and thrashed him.

This was not the first time that the Aam Aadmi Party convener was assaulted.

Kejriwal was also slapped in 2015 while campaigning for Delhi assembly elections and again in the same year when an autorickshaw driver slapped him during a roadshow in Delhi.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Suresh, the man who slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on May 4, expressed regret over his act. "I don't know why I slapped him (Arvind Kejriwal).

Suresh, the man who slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on May 4, expressed regret over his act. "I don't know why I slapped him (Arvind Kejriwal). I regret it," Suresh said while talking to ANI on Thursday. Suresh also claimed that he is not affiliated to any political party. "I am not affiliated to any political party. Nobody asked me to do this. Police did not misbehave with me. They only said what I did was wrong," he added. On May 4, AAP chief Kejriwal was slapped by a man (later identified as Suresh) in Moti Nagar 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 reddish maroon shirt climbed on to the vehicle and landed a slap on his face. AAP supporters immediately pulled him down and thrashed him. This was not the first time that the Aam Aadmi Party convener was assaulted. Kejriwal was also slapped in 2015 while campaigning for Delhi assembly elections and again in the same year when an autorickshaw driver slapped him during a roadshow in Delhi.

Man who attacked Delhi CM Kejriwal expresses regret; says don't know why I slapped him

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here.

The largest paramilitary force – the CRPF - which was deployed in the Maoist-infested zones or Junglemahal in West Bengal was recently withdrawn by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of re-deployment of CRPF companies in other districts going to polls.

However, almost 80,000 jawans of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have been deployed in the sixth phase of elections. This phase is one of the most crucial as LWE zones, comprising districts of Jungle Mahal – Jhargram, Purulia and parts of Bankura, West Midnapore and Birbhum, have not seen any Maoist movements in the last five years and the security agencies have chalked out massive plan to thwart any Maoist attempt to disrupt the poll process.

“Since the last week, we have started combing and search operations. Culverts, new roads, ambush locations have all been identified and we have started sanitizing all these areas. As many as 683 companies have been deployed in these zones and all of the 683 company commanders and ADHOC commanders have been asked to be on the field and be available on the phone at all times,” said S Raveendran, IG, CRPF, West Bengal sector.

“Our priority is safety and security of polling personnel. We have often seen either on their way to the polling station or on their way back from the polling station, they come under attack. We will ensure they are escorted safely to and fro from the polling stations in sensitive areas. As far as the security of the jawans is concerned, they have been asked to be on foot to prevent any landmine blast. Several anti-landmine and landmine assistant vehicles have also been pressed into service. Jawans in the most sensitive zones have been asked to wear the bulletproof jackets and bulletproof helmets,” added Raveendran.

In case of an eventuality, a chopper will remain stationed at Salboni CRPF camp to evacuate the injured or be pressed into service in case of an emergency.

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here.

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here. The largest paramilitary force – the CRPF - which was deployed in the Maoist-infested zones or Junglemahal in West Bengal was recently withdrawn by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of re-deployment of CRPF companies in other districts going to polls. However, almost 80,000 jawans of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have been deployed in the sixth phase of elections. This phase is one of the most crucial as LWE zones, comprising districts of Jungle Mahal – Jhargram, Purulia and parts of Bankura, West Midnapore and Birbhum, have not seen any Maoist movements in the last five years and the security agencies have chalked out massive plan to thwart any Maoist attempt to disrupt the poll process. “Since the last week, we have started combing and search operations. Culverts, new roads, ambush locations have all been identified and we have started sanitizing all these areas. As many as 683 companies have been deployed in these zones and all of the 683 company commanders and ADHOC commanders have been asked to be on the field and be available on the phone at all times,” said S Raveendran, IG, CRPF, West Bengal sector. “Our priority is safety and security of polling personnel. We have often seen either on their way to the polling station or on their way back from the polling station, they come under attack. We will ensure they are escorted safely to and fro from the polling stations in sensitive areas. As far as the security of the jawans is concerned, they have been asked to be on foot to prevent any landmine blast. Several anti-landmine and landmine assistant vehicles have also been pressed into service. Jawans in the most sensitive zones have been asked to wear the bulletproof jackets and bulletproof helmets,” added Raveendran. In case of an eventuality, a chopper will remain stationed at Salboni CRPF camp to evacuate the injured or be pressed into service in case of an emergency.

CRPF draws massive plans to thwart Maoist attempts to disrupt poll process  

Former cricketer and BJP's candidate from East Delhi constituency, Gautam Gambhir has sent a defamation notice to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Atishi Marlena, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-demands-proofs-after-aaps-atishi-accuses-him-of-distributing-pamphlets-against-her-217298">Gambhir also asked the three AAP leaders</a> to "cease and desist" from any further circulation of the "impugned statements".

"You noticees (three AAP leaders) are called upon to tender an unconditional and unqualified apology to our client for defaming him with the false and baseless allegations," the notice sent to AAP leaders by Gambhir's counsel read. It also warned that failing to render an unconditional apology would invite further legal actions, both civil and criminal."

In the event, your notice fail to comply with the above, we have specific instructions from our client to initiate appropriate legal proceedings, both civil and criminal," the notice further said.

The BJP leader also alleged that the statements were made to cloud the impression of voters in East Delhi constituency with the sole attempt to manipulate the mindset of voters.

The legal notice also mentioned the statements made by the AAP leaders in the press conference and on micro-blogging site Twitter.

Earlier in the day, Gambhir had challenged the Aam Aadmi Party chief to prove the allegations levelled against him while asserting that he will be filing a defamation case against AAP leaders for "tarnishing" his image by alleging that he had made <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/aaps-atishi-charges-bjp-with-distributing-obscene-pamphlets-against-her-party-denies-217295">defamatory pamphlets against his rival Aatishi</a>.

Gambhir's comments came hours after he was accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks against his rival candidate Atishi Marlena.

"If they can get proof, I will resign right now and if they get a proof by May 23, I will resign on that particular day. But if Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal do not get the proof, will he accept the challenge and leave politics forever on 23rd?," Gambhir told ANI.

He had also threatened to file a defamation case on the issue and said, "I will definitely file a defamation case against them. You cannot tarnish someone's image just like that if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning."

Earlier in the day, Delhi's deputy chief minister Sisodia had accused the cricketer-turned-politician of distributing pamphlets in an attempt to defame Atishi.

"Language in this pamphlet, distributed in East Delhi, is so abusive and low that everybody will feel ashamed while reading it. This letter with derogatory remarks is distributed by Gautam Gambhir to make himself win. We never, in our worst dream, had thought that he (Gambhir) would stoop to this low to win polls," Sisodia had said.

AAP chief Kejriwal also reiterated the charges and raised similar questions.

"How can women expect safety if people with such mentality are voted in? Atishi, stay strong. I can imagine how difficult it must be for you. It is precisely this kind of forces we have to fight against," he had tweeted.

Gambhir and Atishi are in a three-cornered battle along with Congress candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely from the east-Delhi parliamentary constituency which will go to polls on May 9.

Former cricketer and BJP's candidate from East Delhi constituency, Gautam Gambhir has sent a defamation notice to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Atishi Marlena, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him.

Former cricketer and BJP's candidate from East Delhi constituency, Gautam Gambhir has sent a defamation notice to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Atishi Marlena, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him. Gambhir also asked the three AAP leaders to "cease and desist" from any further circulation of the "impugned statements". "You noticees (three AAP leaders) are called upon to tender an unconditional and unqualified apology to our client for defaming him with the false and baseless allegations," the notice sent to AAP leaders by Gambhir's counsel read. It also warned that failing to render an unconditional apology would invite further legal actions, both civil and criminal." In the event, your notice fail to comply with the above, we have specific instructions from our client to initiate appropriate legal proceedings, both civil and criminal," the notice further said. The BJP leader also alleged that the statements were made to cloud the impression of voters in East Delhi constituency with the sole attempt to manipulate the mindset of voters. The legal notice also mentioned the statements made by the AAP leaders in the press conference and on micro-blogging site Twitter. Earlier in the day, Gambhir had challenged the Aam Aadmi Party chief to prove the allegations levelled against him while asserting that he will be filing a defamation case against AAP leaders for "tarnishing" his image by alleging that he had made defamatory pamphlets against his rival Aatishi. Gambhir's comments came hours after he was accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks against his rival candidate Atishi Marlena. "If they can get proof, I will resign right now and if they get a proof by May 23, I will resign on that particular day. But if Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal do not get the proof, will he accept the challenge and leave politics forever on 23rd?," Gambhir told ANI. He had also threatened to file a defamation case on the issue and said, "I will definitely file a defamation case against them. You cannot tarnish someone's image just like that if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning." Earlier in the day, Delhi's deputy chief minister Sisodia had accused the cricketer-turned-politician of distributing pamphlets in an attempt to defame Atishi. "Language in this pamphlet, distributed in East Delhi, is so abusive and low that everybody will feel ashamed while reading it. This letter with derogatory remarks is distributed by Gautam Gambhir to make himself win. We never, in our worst dream, had thought that he (Gambhir) would stoop to this low to win polls," Sisodia had said. AAP chief Kejriwal also reiterated the charges and raised similar questions. "How can women expect safety if people with such mentality are voted in? Atishi, stay strong. I can imagine how difficult it must be for you. It is precisely this kind of forces we have to fight against," he had tweeted. Gambhir and Atishi are in a three-cornered battle along with Congress candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely from the east-Delhi parliamentary constituency which will go to polls on May 9.

Gautam Gambhir sends defamation notice to Kejriwal, Sisodia, Atishi; demands 'unconditional apology'

Speaking exclusively to WION, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/congress-has-lost-credibility-to-address-poverty-nitin-gadkari-217288">Union minister Nitin Gadkari</a> said that he does not harbour prime ministerial ambition and that he is confident that the BJP will form the next government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Gadkari also said that the NDA is not a one-man government and every minister has a voice in the decision-making process.

As the Union minister spoke on a host of other issues, he said that 2019 is not an election of regional parties as the polity is divided between the NDA and the UPA.&nbsp;

“2019 is not 1996. Most of the regional parties will take a decision after the results come out and will align with either the NDA or the UPA. The federal front has no future,” he said.

Gadkari also took on the critics on the issue of the government interfering in the work of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He told WION that the RBI is not an autonomous institution as it works within the larger umbrella of the government.&nbsp;

He added that the government has full right to advice and direct the RBI for the benefit of people.&nbsp;

“We are the elected representatives. People will come to us in case of an economic downturn, so it becomes our responsibility to set things right when required,” said Gadkari.

Gadkari also openly defended the candidature of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur who is contesting against Congress' Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat.&nbsp;

He said that Sadhvi has been a victim of a conspiracy hatched by the Congress which had spawned the myth of Hindu terrorism. “She is innocent and will win the elections from Bhopal,” he said.

He also spoke on the farm crisis and said that it is a result of the economic policies of the Congress. He said that the agricultural sector needs a lot of innovation and needs to respond to the new global economy. On the issue subsidy, Gadkari said that subsidy is required as the farm sector is under a tremendous strain.

Downplaying the role of the RSS in the government, Gadkari said that the RSS does not interfere in the work of the government. “It is a wrong perception,” he said.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said that he does not harbour prime ministerial ambition and that he is confident that the BJP will form the next government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said that he does not harbour prime ministerial ambition and that he is confident that the BJP will form the next government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gadkari also said that the NDA is not a one-man government and every minister has a voice in the decision-making process. As the Union minister spoke on a host of other issues, he said that 2019 is not an election of regional parties as the polity is divided between the NDA and the UPA. “2019 is not 1996. Most of the regional parties will take a decision after the results come out and will align with either the NDA or the UPA. The federal front has no future,” he said. Gadkari also took on the critics on the issue of the government interfering in the work of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He told WION that the RBI is not an autonomous institution as it works within the larger umbrella of the government. He added that the government has full right to advice and direct the RBI for the benefit of people. “We are the elected representatives. People will come to us in case of an economic downturn, so it becomes our responsibility to set things right when required,” said Gadkari. Gadkari also openly defended the candidature of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur who is contesting against Congress' Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat. He said that Sadhvi has been a victim of a conspiracy hatched by the Congress which had spawned the myth of Hindu terrorism. “She is innocent and will win the elections from Bhopal,” he said. He also spoke on the farm crisis and said that it is a result of the economic policies of the Congress. He said that the agricultural sector needs a lot of innovation and needs to respond to the new global economy. On the issue subsidy, Gadkari said that subsidy is required as the farm sector is under a tremendous strain. Downplaying the role of the RSS in the government, Gadkari said that the RSS does not interfere in the work of the government. “It is a wrong perception,” he said.

We will form the next government, 2019 will not be like 1996: Nitin Gadkari to WION

Watch WION exclusive with Kartikey Sharma in conversation with Union Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari. Watch video to know more.

2019 will not be a repeat of 1996, BJP will form the next govt under Modi: Nitin Gadkari to WION

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East.&nbsp;

While recently, Gambhir has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-demands-proofs-after-aaps-atishi-accuses-him-of-distributing-pamphlets-against-her-217298">accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks</a> against AAP opponent Atishi.&nbsp;

In reply to the accusation, Gambhir sent a defamation notice to Atishi, Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him.&nbsp;

Now, former cricketer VVS Laxman and spinner Harbhajan Singh have come forward and offered their support to Gambhir.&nbsp;

Laxman tweeted, "Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women."

On the other hand, Harbhajan wrote "I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this."

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I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1126731377796239362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to ANI, Gambhir said he would retire from politics the day allegations against him are proven.

"If he has proof, then he must bring it today. My resignation would be written by Arvind Kejriwal and I will sign it publicly," said Gambhir.

"If they have proof I am ready to take retirement from politics today itself. I will take retirement on May 23 if they come with proof but what if he doesn't turn up with proof? Will he resign as Delhi Chief Minister and retire from politics?" he asked.

Gambhir went on to say that it is because of people like Kejriwal that "good" people don't enter politics.

"You know why good people avoid entering politics? It is because of people like Arvind Kejriwal. They know they have to fight people like Arvind Kejriwal who can stoop to any low just for the sake of winning elections," he said.

Delhi, which has seven Lok Sabha seats at stake, will go to polls on May 12.&nbsp;

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East.

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East. While recently, Gambhir has been accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks against AAP opponent Atishi. In reply to the accusation, Gambhir sent a defamation notice to Atishi, Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him. Now, former cricketer VVS Laxman and spinner Harbhajan Singh have come forward and offered their support to Gambhir. Laxman tweeted, "Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women." On the other hand, Harbhajan wrote "I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this." I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) May 10, 2019 × Speaking to ANI, Gambhir said he would retire from politics the day allegations against him are proven. "If he has proof, then he must bring it today. My resignation would be written by Arvind Kejriwal and I will sign it publicly," said Gambhir. "If they have proof I am ready to take retirement from politics today itself. I will take retirement on May 23 if they come with proof but what if he doesn't turn up with proof? Will he resign as Delhi Chief Minister and retire from politics?" he asked. Gambhir went on to say that it is because of people like Kejriwal that "good" people don't enter politics. "You know why good people avoid entering politics? It is because of people like Arvind Kejriwal. They know they have to fight people like Arvind Kejriwal who can stoop to any low just for the sake of winning elections," he said. Delhi, which has seven Lok Sabha seats at stake, will go to polls on May 12.

'He is above all this': Harbhajan Singh and VVS Laxman vouch for Gautam Gambhir in pamphlet row

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power.

The AAP national convenor's attack, during a wide-ranging interview to PTI, comes two days ahead of elections in Delhi, which is witnessing a three-cornered contest as talks for an alliance between the Congress and the AAP did not fructify.

"Congress is harming SP-BSP alliance in UP, Left in Kerala, TMC in West Bengal, TDP in Andhra and AAP in Delhi..If Narendra Modi comes back to power, Rahul Gandhi will only be responsible," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

"It is appearing as if the Congress is fighting the polls against opposition parties and not against the BJP. The Congress is acting as a spoilsport," he added.

The Delhi chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "totally failed" in delivering anything in any of the key sectors and that is why he has been resorting to "fake nationalism".

"Modi-ji's nationalism is fake. It dangerous for the country," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

"He is using the armed forces to get votes as he does not have any work to show," he alleged.

The AAP national convenor, who along with Anna Hazare led a massive anti-graft agitation against UPA II between 2011 and 2013, said Manmohan Singh as prime minister was a thousand times better than Modi.

Kejriwal said the BJP is not going to retain power.

"Our only aim is to stop Modi and Shah from coming back to power. We will support anyone other than the duo," he added.

He said his party will perform well in the national capital.

"A month back, I thought it will be a fierce fight. But the situation changed dramatically in the last 10 days. I am witnessing a situation similar to the atmosphere when we got 67 seats in 2015. I will not be surprised if we get all seven seats," he said.

Kejriwal said the BJP is seeking vote in the name of Modi but the AAP is banking on its work in the fields of education, health and water supply and lower electricity tariff.

"Modi-ji cannot say I made schools, hospitals, brought down electricity tariff, ensured drinking water supply. He failed in every sector. He has not delivered anything," he alleged.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power. The AAP national convenor's attack, during a wide-ranging interview to PTI, comes two days ahead of elections in Delhi, which is witnessing a three-cornered contest as talks for an alliance between the Congress and the AAP did not fructify. "Congress is harming SP-BSP alliance in UP, Left in Kerala, TMC in West Bengal, TDP in Andhra and AAP in Delhi..If Narendra Modi comes back to power, Rahul Gandhi will only be responsible," Kejriwal said. "It is appearing as if the Congress is fighting the polls against opposition parties and not against the BJP. The Congress is acting as a spoilsport," he added. The Delhi chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "totally failed" in delivering anything in any of the key sectors and that is why he has been resorting to "fake nationalism". "Modi-ji's nationalism is fake. It dangerous for the country," Kejriwal said. "He is using the armed forces to get votes as he does not have any work to show," he alleged. The AAP national convenor, who along with Anna Hazare led a massive anti-graft agitation against UPA II between 2011 and 2013, said Manmohan Singh as prime minister was a thousand times better than Modi. Kejriwal said the BJP is not going to retain power. "Our only aim is to stop Modi and Shah from coming back to power. We will support anyone other than the duo," he added. He said his party will perform well in the national capital. "A month back, I thought it will be a fierce fight. But the situation changed dramatically in the last 10 days. I am witnessing a situation similar to the atmosphere when we got 67 seats in 2015. I will not be surprised if we get all seven seats," he said. Kejriwal said the BJP is seeking vote in the name of Modi but the AAP is banking on its work in the fields of education, health and water supply and lower electricity tariff. "Modi-ji cannot say I made schools, hospitals, brought down electricity tariff, ensured drinking water supply. He failed in every sector. He has not delivered anything," he alleged.

Rahul Gandhi responsible if Modi comes back to power, Congress harming opposition: Kejriwal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party is bound to protect India and its citizens.&nbsp;

Answering a series of questions during his interaction with media in Haryana's Rohtak, the prime minister said that action will be taken against "any threat to the nation, be it by people or any system".

PM Modi was reacting to a query if action will be taken against Hafiz Saeed and Dawood Ibrahim like Masood Azahar. The prime minister responded, "Any threat to the nation, be it by people or system, whether it's on the land, sky or in space, BJP is bound to protect India and Indians," he told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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PM Modi on if action will be taken against Hafiz Saeed &amp; Dawood Ibrahim like Masood Azahar, if BJP comes back to power: Don't take names of individuals, any threat to nation, be it by people or system, whether it's on land, sky or in space, BJP is bound to protect India &amp; Indians <a href="https://t.co/Hn166VqO2p">pic.twitter.com/Hn166VqO2p</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1126774374395068417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister sharpened his attack on the Congress and said that the party can't fight elections on issues of development and that is why "they manufacture a lie for which no facts are needed, but BJP is answerable to people and we keep all issues in front of the public".

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PM Narendra Modi: Congress can't fight elections on issues of development so they manufacture a lie for which no facts are needed, but BJP is answerable to people and we keep all issues in front of public <a href="https://t.co/eszZVqxJ1L">https://t.co/eszZVqxJ1L</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1126772296775913474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I am saying from Day 1, we gave houses to 1.5 crore poor, electrification of 18,000 villages, Ayushmaan Bharat, MSP, highways etc. I wanted Congress to challenge us but Congress cant debate on these issues as facts are required," the PM stated.&nbsp;

Modi also slammed the Congress for its leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-hits-out-at-congress-over-pitrodas-remark-on-anti-sikh-riots-217467">Sam Pitroda's reported remark on the anti-Sikh riots</a>, saying it showed the "character and mentality" of the party.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks to ANI in Rohtak, Haryana <a href="https://t.co/U17jXxWct6">pic.twitter.com/U17jXxWct6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1126770543342915584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It reflects Congress's mentality, they have done this for years. Rajiv Gandhi had said 'when a big tree falls earth shakes'. They even made Kamal Nath in-charge of Punjab, now made him MP CM. So don't take this as an individual's statement," he said.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that this Lok Sabha polls, people will give the result of Congress' arrogance, "people of India will ensure that they slip even further," Modi said adding that it was "Congress's arrogance which got them 44 seats".&nbsp;

The prime minister, in an exclusive interview with WION, on Thursday exuded the confidence of securing a second term, that too with a thumping majority.&nbsp;

"I assure you that the BJP is again going to form the government with an absolute majority. All the NDA constituents will emerge victorious with even bigger margins than 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The new government will be strong, and the work we have done in the last five years will speak for itself," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-win-lok-sabha-polls-opposition-can-keep-dreaming-pm-modi-to-wion-217331">PM Modi told WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary</a>.

The Prime Minister also dismissed speculation that the BJP and NDA will need partners to form a government after the results are announced on May 23.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party is bound to protect India and its citizens. Answering a series of questions during his interaction with media in Haryana's Rohtak, the prime minister said that action will be taken against "any threat to the nation, be it by people or any system".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party is bound to protect India and its citizens. Answering a series of questions during his interaction with media in Haryana's Rohtak, the prime minister said that action will be taken against "any threat to the nation, be it by people or any system". PM Modi was reacting to a query if action will be taken against Hafiz Saeed and Dawood Ibrahim like Masood Azahar. The prime minister responded, "Any threat to the nation, be it by people or system, whether it's on the land, sky or in space, BJP is bound to protect India and Indians," he told news agency ANI. PM Modi on if action will be taken against Hafiz Saeed & Dawood Ibrahim like Masood Azahar, if BJP comes back to power: Don't take names of individuals, any threat to nation, be it by people or system, whether it's on land, sky or in space, BJP is bound to protect India & Indians pic.twitter.com/Hn166VqO2p — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019 × The prime minister sharpened his attack on the Congress and said that the party can't fight elections on issues of development and that is why "they manufacture a lie for which no facts are needed, but BJP is answerable to people and we keep all issues in front of the public". PM Narendra Modi: Congress can't fight elections on issues of development so they manufacture a lie for which no facts are needed, but BJP is answerable to people and we keep all issues in front of public https://t.co/eszZVqxJ1L — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019 × "I am saying from Day 1, we gave houses to 1.5 crore poor, electrification of 18,000 villages, Ayushmaan Bharat, MSP, highways etc. I wanted Congress to challenge us but Congress cant debate on these issues as facts are required," the PM stated. Modi also slammed the Congress for its leader Sam Pitroda's reported remark on the anti-Sikh riots, saying it showed the "character and mentality" of the party. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks to ANI in Rohtak, Haryana pic.twitter.com/U17jXxWct6 — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2019 × "It reflects Congress's mentality, they have done this for years. Rajiv Gandhi had said 'when a big tree falls earth shakes'. They even made Kamal Nath in-charge of Punjab, now made him MP CM. So don't take this as an individual's statement," he said. The prime minister said that this Lok Sabha polls, people will give the result of Congress' arrogance, "people of India will ensure that they slip even further," Modi said adding that it was "Congress's arrogance which got them 44 seats". The prime minister, in an exclusive interview with WION, on Thursday exuded the confidence of securing a second term, that too with a thumping majority. "I assure you that the BJP is again going to form the government with an absolute majority. All the NDA constituents will emerge victorious with even bigger margins than 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The new government will be strong, and the work we have done in the last five years will speak for itself," PM Modi told WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. The Prime Minister also dismissed speculation that the BJP and NDA will need partners to form a government after the results are announced on May 23.

Whether on land, sky or in space, will protect Indians against any threat to nation: PM Modi 

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-to-participate-in-mamatas-poll-rallies-216723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio0eWnzZDiAhU_4nMBHXq4AIIQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QLL5IjABggEooEjN3FCVT"> N Chandrababu Naidu</a> have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/insult-to-indias-constitution-pm-modi-on-mamata-banerjees-do-not-consider-him-pm-remark-217332&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-ouu5zZDiAhUi73MBHTegDVIQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw09G2kv8S3bnT40rycl5ZkQ"> Mamata Banerjee</a> in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

The meeting between Banerjee and Naidu took place for over 15 minutes late Thursday evening, according to a well-placed source in the Trinamool Congress.

The two leaders met and spoke about the future plans of the Mahagatbandhan. Naidu and Didi (Banerjee) also discussed the TDP leaders meeting with Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi Wednesday, a senior TMC member told PTI.

On whether Banerjee will be attending the proposed meeting of the opposition parties likely to be held on May 21, the TMC leader said that the date of the meeting was yet not decided.

It's not decided that the meeting will be held on May 21... It seems that it might be deferred by a couple of days and take place after May 23. Didi Maybe taking part in it, he said.

Naidu and Banerjee are believed to have also talked about the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue and the probable voting percentage in the so far held five phases of polling in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, the TMC leader said.

Earlier, Naidu joined Banerjee at a campaign meeting of TMC at Kharagpur on Thursday where he spoke high about her and urged people to vote for Trinamool to oust the BJP from the power.

Later, Naidu participated and delivered a speech for TMC North Kolkata Lok Sabha constituency candidate Sudip Bandyopadhyay at Sithi in the city. Banerjee, who has floated the idea of a federal front of regional parties, has been playing an important role for unity of the anti-BJP bloc.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). The meeting between Banerjee and Naidu took place for over 15 minutes late Thursday evening, according to a well-placed source in the Trinamool Congress. The two leaders met and spoke about the future plans of the Mahagatbandhan. Naidu and Didi (Banerjee) also discussed the TDP leaders meeting with Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi Wednesday, a senior TMC member told PTI. On whether Banerjee will be attending the proposed meeting of the opposition parties likely to be held on May 21, the TMC leader said that the date of the meeting was yet not decided. It's not decided that the meeting will be held on May 21... It seems that it might be deferred by a couple of days and take place after May 23. Didi Maybe taking part in it, he said. Naidu and Banerjee are believed to have also talked about the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue and the probable voting percentage in the so far held five phases of polling in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, the TMC leader said. Earlier, Naidu joined Banerjee at a campaign meeting of TMC at Kharagpur on Thursday where he spoke high about her and urged people to vote for Trinamool to oust the BJP from the power. Later, Naidu participated and delivered a speech for TMC North Kolkata Lok Sabha constituency candidate Sudip Bandyopadhyay at Sithi in the city. Banerjee, who has floated the idea of a federal front of regional parties, has been playing an important role for unity of the anti-BJP bloc.

Mamata Banerjee, Chandrababu Naidu hold closed door meeting on Mahagathbandhan

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years.

Addressing an election meeting here, she also hit out at Modi, claiming that he talks about Pakistan and other "absurd" issues, but never about the problems of the people. The Congress general secretary termed the present BJP government 'ahankari' (egotistical), alleging that it spreads anger, hatred and negativity.

She alleged that when farmers of a number of states, including MP, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, went to Delhi for protests, the Prime Minister did not come out of his bungalow for five minutes to hear their grievances.

"Now they are highlighting 'Kisan samman yojna' and promising Rs 6,000 per year. When Congress asked the government to waive loans of farmers, it was said that there is no money in the economy.&nbsp;

"If you do not have money, how were Rs 550 thousand crores of big industrialists waived. Where does the insurance money of farmers go? While you (farmers) were suffering, companies of PM's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in past five years," Priyanka Gandhi alleged.

Claiming that the Congress government had waived loans in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, she said, "When intentions are good loan waiver starts in three days, but when they are bad 'ahankari' leader talks big from dais and leaves." She said there were false propaganda and negativity in politics but people should never forget their power.&nbsp;

"We are here because of you (people). You all should not forget your power. Don't make (spreading) dirtiness and negativity in politics your habit and make a change. Democracy has given you power," Priyanka Gandhi said&nbsp;

"When he (PM) comes before you he never talks about your problems. He talks of the past, Pakistan and other absurd issues. He did a world tour...Visited Pakistan ate 'biryani' there, visited Japan and played 'dhol', went to the US, Europe and other countries, but never to a single village in his parliamentary constituency to know about the real problems of the people," Priyanka Gandhi claimed.

On the stray cattle menace, she said the government made enclosures for stray animals after seeing the anger of farmers during elections. "But there is no arrangement for fodder and water there. Due to their policies, 12,000 farmers have committed suicide due to loans in the past five years," Priyanka Gandhi said.

She claimed that the BJP government's promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to every citizen was not met and GST and demonetisation ruined traders. Highlighting her party's manifesto, the Congress leader said that her party will make all sections of the society will stand on their own and the poor will be given Rs 72,000 per year and the 24 lakh vacant government jobs will be filled by March 2020.

She said that due to the faulty policies of the BJP, there was a loss of five crore jobs and promised that her government would give 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament so that their voice can be heard.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years. Addressing an election meeting here, she also hit out at Modi, claiming that he talks about Pakistan and other "absurd" issues, but never about the problems of the people. The Congress general secretary termed the present BJP government 'ahankari' (egotistical), alleging that it spreads anger, hatred and negativity. She alleged that when farmers of a number of states, including MP, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, went to Delhi for protests, the Prime Minister did not come out of his bungalow for five minutes to hear their grievances. "Now they are highlighting 'Kisan samman yojna' and promising Rs 6,000 per year. When Congress asked the government to waive loans of farmers, it was said that there is no money in the economy. "If you do not have money, how were Rs 550 thousand crores of big industrialists waived. Where does the insurance money of farmers go? While you (farmers) were suffering, companies of PM's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in past five years," Priyanka Gandhi alleged. Claiming that the Congress government had waived loans in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, she said, "When intentions are good loan waiver starts in three days, but when they are bad 'ahankari' leader talks big from dais and leaves." She said there were false propaganda and negativity in politics but people should never forget their power. "We are here because of you (people). You all should not forget your power. Don't make (spreading) dirtiness and negativity in politics your habit and make a change. Democracy has given you power," Priyanka Gandhi said "When he (PM) comes before you he never talks about your problems. He talks of the past, Pakistan and other absurd issues. He did a world tour...Visited Pakistan ate 'biryani' there, visited Japan and played 'dhol', went to the US, Europe and other countries, but never to a single village in his parliamentary constituency to know about the real problems of the people," Priyanka Gandhi claimed. On the stray cattle menace, she said the government made enclosures for stray animals after seeing the anger of farmers during elections. "But there is no arrangement for fodder and water there. Due to their policies, 12,000 farmers have committed suicide due to loans in the past five years," Priyanka Gandhi said. She claimed that the BJP government's promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to every citizen was not met and GST and demonetisation ruined traders. Highlighting her party's manifesto, the Congress leader said that her party will make all sections of the society will stand on their own and the poor will be given Rs 72,000 per year and the 24 lakh vacant government jobs will be filled by March 2020. She said that due to the faulty policies of the BJP, there was a loss of five crore jobs and promised that her government would give 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament so that their voice can be heard.

PM Modi talks about Pakistan, other 'absurd' issues but never about problems of people: Priyanka

Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/man-who-attacked-delhi-cm-kejriwal-expresses-regret-says-dont-know-why-i-slapped-him-217367&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj69fAxZDiAhXJgI8KHeQ3AuUQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0qmtRx8bFQFYlp3Y0JcFdi">Arvind Kejriwal </a>on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister.

He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister. "Please think about that before voting," he tweeted.

With his tweet, he also tagged a post of a polling agency tracking Indian electoral trends which claimed<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/only-pm-modi-can-ensure-national-security-amit-shah-217248&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVsubNxZDiAhXJvI8KHUU5CrIQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KMMIuXWrRbXnmxfRdwDRS"> Amit Shah</a> is positioning himself for the role of the home minister if Modi returns, and said ex-Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Virmani and former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan can make a good finance minister.

Delhi goes to polls this Sunday in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections and the results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister. He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister. He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister. "Please think about that before voting," he tweeted. With his tweet, he also tagged a post of a polling agency tracking Indian electoral trends which claimed Amit Shah is positioning himself for the role of the home minister if Modi returns, and said ex-Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Virmani and former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan can make a good finance minister. Delhi goes to polls this Sunday in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections and the results will be declared on May 23.

Amit Shah will be home minister if BJP returns to power: Arvind Kejriwal

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/no-party-will-get-majority-congress-will-forge-alliance-for-upa-plus-plus-govt-jyotiraditya-scindia-216994&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjjmYqewpDiAhUE63MBHbrWB3wQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rYga4N_H066-djHjbILwL">Jyotiraditya Scindia</a>, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state.&nbsp;

The Congress general secretary, in charge of the party's affairs for Uttar Pradesh (West), said the strategy was to build the party in the state and the results will show that fighting the elections on its own strength was the right decision.

After spending some time in Uttar Pradesh that sends 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Scindia is now concentrating on the Guna parliamentary constituency in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-madhya-pradesh-village-threatens-to-boycott-polls-if-water-shortage-issue-not-resolved-216187&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiR_ueRwpDiAhVM63MBHVZxBTgQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3cuJ15OUlvYhv-j6QTBw6U">Madhya Pradesh </a>as he seeks a mandate for a fifth term.&nbsp;

"This time we have decided to fight on our own strength in Uttar Pradesh and build the party in the state and you will see based on the results in UP that probably it was the right decision keeping the long term interests of the party in mind," Scindia told PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

"We will do a much better job this time around for the whole of UP... Let the voters decide," the 48-year-old added. He sidestepped a question on whether the BSP-SP-RLD 'mahagathbandhan' will harm the Congress' prospects in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

"I think every party will emerge wherever it is the strongest. So, it's not a question of the 'mahagathbandhan' harming prospects of Congress party or vice versa. It really depends on which party has the strongest candidate and the strongest organisation, " he said.&nbsp;Politics, Scindia said, is the art of possibilities.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, everything is possible in politics and you must persevere and you must make an effort. Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don't," the four-time MP said.&nbsp; On what will happen after May 23 (day of counting), he said we will see once the chips fall.&nbsp;

"It is too hypothetical to tell you what will happen."&nbsp;In 2014, the BJP walked away with 71 of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. The Congress won two seats, Apna Dal two and Samajwadi Party five seats.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is the Congress general secretary in-charge for UP (East).&nbsp;Scindia said the recently appointed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh had done a good job in delivering on pre-poll promises.&nbsp;

"The MP government has done an extremely terrific job. In a short period of time, they have accomplished so much. From farm loans waiver to increase the amount given to girls who are getting married, increasing pension amount, reducing electricity bills and others. Some very monumental decisions that were promised by our party before the polls are now in execution mode," he said.&nbsp;

Asked about reports on a spate of power cuts in Madhya Pradesh after the Kamal Nath-led government took over, Scindia said they are dealing with the legacy of the previous BJP government of the state and the promise of farm loan waiver is being executed properly.&nbsp;

"It is a legacy (electricity issue) they (BJP) have left us which we will have to fix. No one has a magic wand that will fix everything in 50 days. As far as farm loan waiver is concerned, what they (BJP) have not been able to do in 15 years we have done in 20 days... 27 lakh farmers have received it and balance will get as soon as the model code of conduct is removed," he said.&nbsp;

The Congress had promised before the 2018 assembly polls in the state that bank loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh will be waived after the Congress takes charge.&nbsp;Queried on the prospects of him being projected as the possible chief minister of the state during the elections last year, Scindia said he never hankered for a post.&nbsp;

"My pursuit in life is not power or position. My pursuit in life is the goal of development and progress for my people. For me, position and power are not important. Service is important.&nbsp;"Therefore, when my party has taken a decision that decision for me is paramount," Scindia said.

The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003, unseated the Shivraj Singh Chouhan led government in November last year by winning 114 seats while the BJP secured 109.

The state has 29 Lok Sabha seats and in the last general elections, it won a total of 27 seats.&nbsp;The Congress won one more seat in a bypoll later that was held after the death of the sitting BJP MP from Ratlam.&nbsp;

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state.

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state. The Congress general secretary, in charge of the party's affairs for Uttar Pradesh (West), said the strategy was to build the party in the state and the results will show that fighting the elections on its own strength was the right decision. After spending some time in Uttar Pradesh that sends 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Scindia is now concentrating on the Guna parliamentary constituency in Madhya Pradesh as he seeks a mandate for a fifth term. "This time we have decided to fight on our own strength in Uttar Pradesh and build the party in the state and you will see based on the results in UP that probably it was the right decision keeping the long term interests of the party in mind," Scindia told PTI in an interview. "We will do a much better job this time around for the whole of UP... Let the voters decide," the 48-year-old added. He sidestepped a question on whether the BSP-SP-RLD 'mahagathbandhan' will harm the Congress' prospects in Uttar Pradesh. "I think every party will emerge wherever it is the strongest. So, it's not a question of the 'mahagathbandhan' harming prospects of Congress party or vice versa. It really depends on which party has the strongest candidate and the strongest organisation, " he said. Politics, Scindia said, is the art of possibilities. "At the end of the day, everything is possible in politics and you must persevere and you must make an effort. Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don't," the four-time MP said. On what will happen after May 23 (day of counting), he said we will see once the chips fall. "It is too hypothetical to tell you what will happen." In 2014, the BJP walked away with 71 of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. The Congress won two seats, Apna Dal two and Samajwadi Party five seats. Congress president Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is the Congress general secretary in-charge for UP (East). Scindia said the recently appointed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh had done a good job in delivering on pre-poll promises. "The MP government has done an extremely terrific job. In a short period of time, they have accomplished so much. From farm loans waiver to increase the amount given to girls who are getting married, increasing pension amount, reducing electricity bills and others. Some very monumental decisions that were promised by our party before the polls are now in execution mode," he said. Asked about reports on a spate of power cuts in Madhya Pradesh after the Kamal Nath-led government took over, Scindia said they are dealing with the legacy of the previous BJP government of the state and the promise of farm loan waiver is being executed properly. "It is a legacy (electricity issue) they (BJP) have left us which we will have to fix. No one has a magic wand that will fix everything in 50 days. As far as farm loan waiver is concerned, what they (BJP) have not been able to do in 15 years we have done in 20 days... 27 lakh farmers have received it and balance will get as soon as the model code of conduct is removed," he said. The Congress had promised before the 2018 assembly polls in the state that bank loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh will be waived after the Congress takes charge. Queried on the prospects of him being projected as the possible chief minister of the state during the elections last year, Scindia said he never hankered for a post. "My pursuit in life is not power or position. My pursuit in life is the goal of development and progress for my people. For me, position and power are not important. Service is important. "Therefore, when my party has taken a decision that decision for me is paramount," Scindia said. The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003, unseated the Shivraj Singh Chouhan led government in November last year by winning 114 seats while the BJP secured 109. The state has 29 Lok Sabha seats and in the last general elections, it won a total of 27 seats. The Congress won one more seat in a bypoll later that was held after the death of the sitting BJP MP from Ratlam.

Going alone in UP for Congress's long-term interest, will do a good job this time: Scindia

The Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi held a roadshow in Maneka Gandhi's backyard. Priyanka Gandhi campaigns for Dr Sanjay Sinh of the Congress, who was the Sultanpur MP from 2009-14, is the Congress candidate while the BSP has fielded Chandra Bhadra Singh alias Sonu as 'Mahagathbandhan' candidate.

IEW: Priyanka Gandhi vs Maneka Gandhi in Sultanpur

In this segment of India Election Watch, have a look on the fate of independent candidates in India for Lok Sabha election 2019.

IEW: Independent MP's: En route to extinction?

PM Modi says former PM Rajiv Gandhi used a naval ship to take his in-laws for a holiday. Watch video to know more.

IEW: PM Modi's fresh attack on Rajiv Gandhi

Two days after Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to give him a "tight slap of democracy", Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his response while campaigning in Bengal.

IEW: BJP's mega push in West Bengal

Watch this segment to know latest updates of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Watch latest election news

In this segment of India Election Watch. The 6th phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 is about to hit polling station on 12th of May. But are these candidates are worth to choose as your MP?

IEW: Know about your candidate for phase 6 polling

Watch 'India Election Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on world's biggest electoral exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis.

India Election Watch; 09th May, 2019

In an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-win-lok-sabha-polls-opposition-can-keep-dreaming-pm-modi-to-wion-217331">exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted over his recent remark on former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. He said that he had "given factual information" and nothing else.

The prime minister lashed out at the Congress party and said that "if you want votes in the name of someone's legacy then you must be ready to answer questions as well".

The incidents that happened during a prime minister's tenure, won't those be discussed?" the prime minister enquired adding that "I have not made any allegations on anyone".

"You are answerable and you will have to answer questions... on the Bhopal gas tragedy, on the Bofors defence deal," the PM said.&nbsp;

Last week, PM Modi had targeted the former prime minister while attacking Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Your father (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/why-is-rahul-disturbed-if-integrity-of-rajiv-gandhi-government-are-questioned-arun-jaitley-216175">Rajiv Gandhi) was termed Mr Clean</a> by his courtiers, but his life ended as bhrashtachari No 1," Modi had said during a rally in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Responding to PM Modi's comments Rahul Gandhi had tweeted, "Modi Ji, the battle is over. Your Karma awaits you. Projecting your inner beliefs about yourself onto my father won't protect you. All my love and a huge hug".

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday wondered why Congress president Rahul Gandhi gets disturbed when integrity issues of his late father Rajiv Gandhi-led government are raised and the 'Q' connection in the Bofors gun-deal is questioned. 
&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted over his recent remark on former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted over his recent remark on former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. He said that he had "given factual information" and nothing else. The prime minister lashed out at the Congress party and said that "if you want votes in the name of someone's legacy then you must be ready to answer questions as well". The incidents that happened during a prime minister's tenure, won't those be discussed?" the prime minister enquired adding that "I have not made any allegations on anyone". "You are answerable and you will have to answer questions... on the Bhopal gas tragedy, on the Bofors defence deal," the PM said. Last week, PM Modi had targeted the former prime minister while attacking Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. "Your father (Rajiv Gandhi) was termed Mr Clean by his courtiers, but his life ended as bhrashtachari No 1," Modi had said during a rally in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday. Responding to PM Modi's comments Rahul Gandhi had tweeted, "Modi Ji, the battle is over. Your Karma awaits you. Projecting your inner beliefs about yourself onto my father won't protect you. All my love and a huge hug". Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday wondered why Congress president Rahul Gandhi gets disturbed when integrity issues of his late father Rajiv Gandhi-led government are raised and the 'Q' connection in the Bofors gun-deal is questioned.

I have not made any allegations on anyone, just stated facts: PM Modi on his remark on Rajiv Gandhi 

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress North East Delhi candidate Sheila Dikshit holded a roadshow in Delhi on Wednesday. Watch this video to know more.

Priyanka Gandhi & PM Modi's war of words

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency.

In an order on Wednesday, EC stated that the re-polling will be held on May 12 between 7 am to 6 pm.

"After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 18, 2019, at Polling Station No. 10 of 10-Kamraj Nagar Assembly Segment of Puducherry parliamentary constituency to be void," an order from the EC to the Returning Officer of Puducherry read.

The ECI directed the Returning Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas.

It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll.

Earlier on Tuesday, EC had declared 'void', polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12.

Puducherry Lok Sabha seat went to polls on April 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency.

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency. In an order on Wednesday, EC stated that the re-polling will be held on May 12 between 7 am to 6 pm. "After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 18, 2019, at Polling Station No. 10 of 10-Kamraj Nagar Assembly Segment of Puducherry parliamentary constituency to be void," an order from the EC to the Returning Officer of Puducherry read. The ECI directed the Returning Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas. It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. Earlier on Tuesday, EC had declared 'void', polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12. Puducherry Lok Sabha seat went to polls on April 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission orders re-polling in one booth in Puducherry

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/shocked-to-see-cjis-image-being-maligned-pm-modi-to-wion-217333">In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief</a>, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at the 'united opposition' formed under the garb of the ''Mahagathbandhan,' the prime minister said that he wishes the political opposition was united but in reality, "they all have come together knowing that they all will not be able to withstand this wave."

"Deep within they all want to overtake each other, there is no unity, this is very well understood by the voters of the country," PM Modi said. &nbsp;

The prime minister went on to say that the entire world lauds the democracy of the country, the mega electoral process that comes into play for the election of the country's government every term, "but we just can't get enough of criticising ourselves and picking faults," he added.&nbsp;

"This election, or the issues this time, should not be seen on the basis of the TRPs or the rallies and addresses of political leaders, it should only be seen or understood in context to what the voters understand and want," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

He said that politics should be done on the basis of truth and battles must be fought on a strong foundation. &nbsp;

"There must be fair play in politics," the prime minister said adding that after May 23rd the electronic voting machine (EVM) will pronounce the result, the result which the citizens of the country would decide. "EVM bolega," the PM exclaimed. &nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already.

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already. Taking a dig at the 'united opposition' formed under the garb of the ''Mahagathbandhan,' the prime minister said that he wishes the political opposition was united but in reality, "they all have come together knowing that they all will not be able to withstand this wave." "Deep within they all want to overtake each other, there is no unity, this is very well understood by the voters of the country," PM Modi said. The prime minister went on to say that the entire world lauds the democracy of the country, the mega electoral process that comes into play for the election of the country's government every term, "but we just can't get enough of criticising ourselves and picking faults," he added. "This election, or the issues this time, should not be seen on the basis of the TRPs or the rallies and addresses of political leaders, it should only be seen or understood in context to what the voters understand and want," the prime minister said. He said that politics should be done on the basis of truth and battles must be fought on a strong foundation. "There must be fair play in politics," the prime minister said adding that after May 23rd the electronic voting machine (EVM) will pronounce the result, the result which the citizens of the country would decide. "EVM bolega," the PM exclaimed.

There is no unity in 'Mahagathbandhan', they came together knowing there isn't any other way: PM Modi to WION

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-will-be-wasting-her-time-campaigning-in-the-national-capital-kejriwal-216999">invoked her Delhi roots</a> during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-will-stop-flow-of-our-share-of-water-to-pakistan-pm-modi-at-kurukshetra-poll-rally-217039">Narendra Modi</a> to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ncpcr-notice-to-priyanka-gandhi-over-use-of-children-in-electioneering-215473">Priyanka Gandhi</a>, 47, said she was born in Delhi and knows the city like the back of her hand.

She held two roadshows in a span of four hours in favour of party candidates from the Northeast Delhi and the South Delhi constituencies -- Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh.&nbsp;

During her first roadshow in support of Dikshit, she said the people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk".

"Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women security and the false promises you made to the people of the country," she said, as the crowd clapped, cheered and whistled.

Modi had challenged the Congress to fight the last two phases in the name of Rajiv Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi's father and former prime minister who he has described as "Bhrashtachari No 1" (corrupt no 1).

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Priyanka Gandhi said Modi has been shifting the blame on former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, like a school child trying to escape punishment from teachers.&nbsp;

She also accused Modi of "destroying" institutions and the BJP of "playing politics in the name of religion".

Perched atop a minibus, she said, "I cannot disrespect you (people of Delhi). We are not arrogant like BJP. We know you have made us what we are today."

"Modi ji has been in Delhi for five years. I was born in the city. I have seen every bylane, every nook and cranny of the city. I will tell you (Modi) what the people of Delhi think. They (people) are tired of your purposeless talk. You keep yourself confined to your Race Course Road residence," she said.

The prime minister's officials residence is 7, Race Course Road. The name of the road was changed to Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016.

Priyanka Gandhi accused Modi of indulging in negative politics and said he cannot give a direct answer to questions asked about the work he did in the past five years.

Raking up the issue of GST, she said the new indirect tax regime broke the back of businessmen.

The AICC general secretary also referred to the BJP's 2014 poll promises, including that of providing two&nbsp;crore jobs every year.

"You talk about nationalism. Is securing a better future for the youth of the country, not nationalism?" she asked.

She asked the crowd if they got the jobs to which the people responded in the negative.

"He (Modi) failed to protect soldiers, youths and women but who will hold him accountable and who will seek answers from him," she asked the gathering which replied, "We will."

"You have to vote and strengthen yourself. He (Modi) is destroying all institutions and they (BJP) are playing politics in the name of religion. Delhi is the heart of the nation. Raise your voice...We have had enough," she said.

The roadshow started in Seelampur, a minority-dominated area, and meandered with a sea of people towards the Yamuna Vihar depot, where it culminated.

The Congress leaders waved at the ebullient hordes of supporters who raised slogans "Desh me andhi, Priyanka Gandhi" Gandhi&nbsp;and "Priyanka nahi ye andhi hai dusri Indira Gandhi hai''.&nbsp;

As people jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi, women in the balconies of the houses lining the streets showered her with bucket loads of rose petals.

Her cavalcade curled through the lanes amid a cacophony of claps, hooting, sloganeering and drum beating.

"Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP seeking reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government," said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur.

Priyanka Gandhi also held another roadshow in support of the party's candidate for the South Delhi seat, Vijender Singh.

The hour-long roadshow began from Virat Cinema and culminated at the Tigri traffic intersection, after winding its way through people-filled streets.

Slogans of "Boxer bhai zindabad, Priyanka Gandhi zindabad" rented the air, as the two leaders waved at the elated crowd that included people of all ages.

"When I see her, she reminds me of Indira Gandhi. And her entering politics has lent fresh energy to Congress. Our party will do well," Om Wati, 54, a former municipal councillor of Delhi, said.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday invoked her Delhi roots during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday invoked her Delhi roots during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people. Priyanka Gandhi, 47, said she was born in Delhi and knows the city like the back of her hand. She held two roadshows in a span of four hours in favour of party candidates from the Northeast Delhi and the South Delhi constituencies -- Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh. During her first roadshow in support of Dikshit, she said the people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk". "Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women security and the false promises you made to the people of the country," she said, as the crowd clapped, cheered and whistled. Modi had challenged the Congress to fight the last two phases in the name of Rajiv Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi's father and former prime minister who he has described as "Bhrashtachari No 1" (corrupt no 1). × Priyanka Gandhi said Modi has been shifting the blame on former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, like a school child trying to escape punishment from teachers. She also accused Modi of "destroying" institutions and the BJP of "playing politics in the name of religion". Perched atop a minibus, she said, "I cannot disrespect you (people of Delhi). We are not arrogant like BJP. We know you have made us what we are today." "Modi ji has been in Delhi for five years. I was born in the city. I have seen every bylane, every nook and cranny of the city. I will tell you (Modi) what the people of Delhi think. They (people) are tired of your purposeless talk. You keep yourself confined to your Race Course Road residence," she said. The prime minister's officials residence is 7, Race Course Road. The name of the road was changed to Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016. Priyanka Gandhi accused Modi of indulging in negative politics and said he cannot give a direct answer to questions asked about the work he did in the past five years. Raking up the issue of GST, she said the new indirect tax regime broke the back of businessmen. The AICC general secretary also referred to the BJP's 2014 poll promises, including that of providing two crore jobs every year. "You talk about nationalism. Is securing a better future for the youth of the country, not nationalism?" she asked. She asked the crowd if they got the jobs to which the people responded in the negative. "He (Modi) failed to protect soldiers, youths and women but who will hold him accountable and who will seek answers from him," she asked the gathering which replied, "We will." "You have to vote and strengthen yourself. He (Modi) is destroying all institutions and they (BJP) are playing politics in the name of religion. Delhi is the heart of the nation. Raise your voice...We have had enough," she said. The roadshow started in Seelampur, a minority-dominated area, and meandered with a sea of people towards the Yamuna Vihar depot, where it culminated. The Congress leaders waved at the ebullient hordes of supporters who raised slogans "Desh me andhi, Priyanka Gandhi" Gandhi and "Priyanka nahi ye andhi hai dusri Indira Gandhi hai''. As people jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi, women in the balconies of the houses lining the streets showered her with bucket loads of rose petals. Her cavalcade curled through the lanes amid a cacophony of claps, hooting, sloganeering and drum beating. "Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP seeking reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government," said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur. Priyanka Gandhi also held another roadshow in support of the party's candidate for the South Delhi seat, Vijender Singh. The hour-long roadshow began from Virat Cinema and culminated at the Tigri traffic intersection, after winding its way through people-filled streets. Slogans of "Boxer bhai zindabad, Priyanka Gandhi zindabad" rented the air, as the two leaders waved at the elated crowd that included people of all ages. "When I see her, she reminds me of Indira Gandhi. And her entering politics has lent fresh energy to Congress. Our party will do well," Om Wati, 54, a former municipal councillor of Delhi, said.

Priyanka Gandhi invokes Delhi roots, challenges PM Modi to fight elections on false promises