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The fifth phase, to be held on May 6, covers Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Bihar among other states. Watch some of the key battles in phase 5 of Lok Sabha polls. watch video to know more.

IEW: Key battles in phase 5 of Lok Sabha polls

The Supreme Court has asked the Election Commission to take a decision on a plea seeking to revise the voting time from 7 am to 5 am during Ramzan coinciding with the last three phases of the Lok Sabha elections.

IEW: Ramzan: Can polling time be revised?

The Lok Sabha election 2019 is underway and about to witness its 5th phase on 6th of May. Watch rally roster of some top politicians

IEW: Watch rally roster for 5th phase of polling

The Lok Sabha election 2019 is underway and about to witness its 5th phase on 12th of May. Watch some key battles in phase 5 of LS polls.

Rahul Gandhi made his electoral debut from Amethi in 2004 when Sonia Gandhi moved to Rae Bareli, formerly represented by Indira Gandhi. Priyanka Gandhi has managed both the constituencies in every Lok Sabha election since 2004.

IEW: Know Your Candidate; Rahul Gandhi

Smriti Irani joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2003. She became the vice-president of the Maharashtra Youth Wing in 2004. In the 2004 general elections for the 14th Lok Sabha, she contested unsuccessfully against Kapil Sibal from the Chandni Chowk constituency in Delhi.

IEW: Know Your Candidate; Smriti Irani

In the battle for 40 seats in Bihar, the dynamics of caste arithmetic is very different from what it was in 2009 and 2014. This time the major parties like BJP and JD(U) and LJP on the one side RJD, Congress, RLSP, and VIP on the other side have tried to consolidate their votes through alliances. How much of the caste arithmetic has changed since 2009 and 2014 and which side would the Muslim and EBC votes go.

IEW: Significance of caste arithemetic in Bihar

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on May 3rd, 2019.

India Election Watch; May 3rd, 2019

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception".

Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image".

In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?"

"Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added.

Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent.

"He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast.

"Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity. The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception". Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image". In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?" "Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added. Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent. "He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast. "Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.

Jaitley wonders how Rahul could damage Modi's image

The Lok Sabha election 2019 is underway and about to witness its 5th phase on 12th of May. Various political parties in India keeps on targeting dynasty rule from a long period. But will this parties having dynasty rule can win this election?

IEW: Victory assured for political dynasties?

The Lok Sabha election 2019 is underway and about to witness its 5th phase on 6th of May.

India Election Watch: Watch top election stories

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party.

Addressing a press conference at the party office, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao alleged that the Congress dispensation in the state is "minting money and diverting government funds. Rs 281 crore unaccounted cash was traced from his close associates".

Describing Madhya Pradesh as a new ATM of Congress, Rao alleged that as per entries in a diary traced by Income Tax Department, senior Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Randeep Surjewala also got a cut from this unaccounted cash.&nbsp;

The Congress dismissed the charge, saying it was a sign of desperation of the ruling party. Senior party leader Anand Sharma said that raising these issues at this stage shows the mindset of the BJP and the ruling government which were panicking.

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party.

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party. Addressing a press conference at the party office, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao alleged that the Congress dispensation in the state is "minting money and diverting government funds. Rs 281 crore unaccounted cash was traced from his close associates". Describing Madhya Pradesh as a new ATM of Congress, Rao alleged that as per entries in a diary traced by Income Tax Department, senior Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Randeep Surjewala also got a cut from this unaccounted cash. The Congress dismissed the charge, saying it was a sign of desperation of the ruling party. Senior party leader Anand Sharma said that raising these issues at this stage shows the mindset of the BJP and the ruling government which were panicking.

Madhya Pradesh is new ATM for Congress: BJP

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'.

With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters.

"In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said.

In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said.

Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP.

Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.

He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority.

Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained.

"The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said.

The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong.

Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism.

At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror.

Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives.

The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali.

Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.&nbsp;

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi. It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'. With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters. "In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said. In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said. Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP. Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority. Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained. "The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said. The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong. Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism. In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror. Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives. The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali. Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.

Election Commission clean chit to PM Modi in two more speeches

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/congress-earlier-mocked-surgical-strikes-now-saying-me-too-me-too-pm-modi-215682">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website.

"The Prime Minister joined 30 programmes in Delhi itself. 14 Cabinet meetings have been held since the start of the year. These numbers speak for themselves. They also offer a unique glimpse into the working style and multi-tasking abilities of PM Modi," read a statement on his website www.narendramodi.in.&nbsp;

One example of PM Modi`s hectic schedule was his visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

In February, PM Modi embarked on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir where in one day he covered all three regions of the state- Ladakh, Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. Since January 2019, PM Modi has made multiple visits to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.

These visits were scheduled before the Model Code of Conduct was enforced by the Election Commission, therefore a great emphasis on infra projects and sectors like energy and agriculture was laid in these trips.

On February 1, the NDA Government announced two marquee schemes- the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana.&nbsp;

The former provides monetary support to farmers while the latter assures a monthly pension to the unorganised sector. Both these schemes were launched soon after the announcements were made.

PM Modi went to Gorakhpur on February 24 to launch the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi while he went to Ahmedabad to launch the Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana on March 5.

On the same day, PM Modi was at the holy Sangam in Prayagraj, where he took a dip and participated in a Puja ceremony.

"He became the first Prime Minister in years to visit a Kumbh Mela," according to his website.

At the end of December 2018, PM Modi was on the shores of Port Blair to pay tribute to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar.

A month later, on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi was in Gujarat`s Dandi to inaugurate a state-of-the-art Salt Satyagraha Memorial and Museum.

In January, he visited the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and in March he was at the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura.

During the last 150 days, the 'MP Modi' visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi five times.

Even while in Delhi, the prime minister had a hectic schedule.&nbsp;

On a February winter evening in the capital, thousands of veterans gathered at Delhi`s Dhyan Chand Stadium.&nbsp;

The occasion was a rally of ex-servicemen, which was addressed by PM Modi, followed by the dedication of Rashtriya Samar Smarak or the National War Memorial to the nation.

"It has been 70 long years but nobody thought of a grand National War Memorial as a tribute to our brave hearts martyred in the line of duty. It was PM Modi who took this decision and in quick time, a grand memorial was ready," the statement on his website said.

PM Modi also visited Amethi in UP on March 4 to inaugurate rifle unit which will manufacture AK-203 guns.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website. "The Prime Minister joined 30 programmes in Delhi itself. 14 Cabinet meetings have been held since the start of the year. These numbers speak for themselves. They also offer a unique glimpse into the working style and multi-tasking abilities of PM Modi," read a statement on his website www.narendramodi.in. One example of PM Modi`s hectic schedule was his visit to Jammu and Kashmir. In February, PM Modi embarked on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir where in one day he covered all three regions of the state- Ladakh, Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. Since January 2019, PM Modi has made multiple visits to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura. These visits were scheduled before the Model Code of Conduct was enforced by the Election Commission, therefore a great emphasis on infra projects and sectors like energy and agriculture was laid in these trips. On February 1, the NDA Government announced two marquee schemes- the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana. The former provides monetary support to farmers while the latter assures a monthly pension to the unorganised sector. Both these schemes were launched soon after the announcements were made. PM Modi went to Gorakhpur on February 24 to launch the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi while he went to Ahmedabad to launch the Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana on March 5. On the same day, PM Modi was at the holy Sangam in Prayagraj, where he took a dip and participated in a Puja ceremony. "He became the first Prime Minister in years to visit a Kumbh Mela," according to his website. At the end of December 2018, PM Modi was on the shores of Port Blair to pay tribute to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. A month later, on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi was in Gujarat`s Dandi to inaugurate a state-of-the-art Salt Satyagraha Memorial and Museum. In January, he visited the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and in March he was at the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura. During the last 150 days, the 'MP Modi' visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi five times. Even while in Delhi, the prime minister had a hectic schedule. On a February winter evening in the capital, thousands of veterans gathered at Delhi`s Dhyan Chand Stadium. The occasion was a rally of ex-servicemen, which was addressed by PM Modi, followed by the dedication of Rashtriya Samar Smarak or the National War Memorial to the nation. "It has been 70 long years but nobody thought of a grand National War Memorial as a tribute to our brave hearts martyred in the line of duty. It was PM Modi who took this decision and in quick time, a grand memorial was ready," the statement on his website said. PM Modi also visited Amethi in UP on March 4 to inaugurate rifle unit which will manufacture AK-203 guns.

PM Modi's travel itinerary in last 125 days: 200 programmes across 27 states and Union Territories

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies.

Addressing a rally in Sikar, he suggested that Congress leaders were confusing video games with such strikes.

He said the party first ignored the strikes carried out under his government and then opposed them. Now it's me too, me too,he said using the English term.

He also addressed public meetings in Hindaun and Bikaner, accusing Congress at both places of not acting strongly against terrorism.

Only a mazboot' government can do so, he said.

He expressed the Centre's solidarity with people in cyclone-hit states and said Rs 1,000 crore has already been released for relief work.

Modi's remarks on retaliatory strikes against Pakistan-based terror groups come a day after the Congress claimed that six cross-border strikes were carried out during the UPA government's term as well.

"They initially mocked and rejected the surgical strike but people had faith in me and they stood by me," the prime minister said, slamming the opposition.

Modi said a Congress leader had claimed four months back that three surgical strikes were conducted during that party's term and now another leader is saying there were six.

"The number increased from three to six in four months. By the time the elections are over, this will increase to 600. What does it matter when the strike is on paper? The Congress only tells lies," he said.

He said the Congress leaders seem to play video games, and suggested that they treated surgical strikes in the same manner.

He accused the Congress leaders of calling the Army chief a `goonda' (thug) and the Indian Air Force chief a 'lier', in an apparent reference to alleged remarks by Sandeep Dikshit and Veerappa Moily in past years.

He said the Congress leaders do not trust the valour of the country's jawans and raise doubts on casualties inflicted on terrorists. 
"Do they intend to send 'chadars' to bury terrorists?" he asked, apparently referring to the oppsoition insistance on knowing the number of terrorist killed in the air strike in Pakistan after a terror attack in Kashmir.

In Hindaun, Modi said instead of celebrating the UN decision on designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, the Congress is questioning its timing.

"Should the UN ask the Congress, should it consult 'madam' or 'naamdar' before declaring him a global terrorist?" he said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

After the surgical strike and the (Balakot) air strike, the UN decision to declare Masood Azhar a global terrorist is the third international strike on terrorism," he said.

He accused the Congress of being upset about all developments that are good for India, whether it is the UN decision on Azhar or the awards conferred on him by the United Arab Emirates and Russia.

There is no comparison between the BJP and the Congress on tackling terrorism, he said, recalling the bomb blasts during the UPA government's term.

Only a majboot' (strong) government can take decisions like retaliatory strikes against Pakistan, or deal with issues like the Doklam crisis, he said referring to the 2017 standoff between Indian and Chinese troops.

In Bikaner, he referred to the long-delayed acquisition under his government of property which belonged to people who left for Pakistan during the 1947 Partition.

He also took a dig at Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her interaction with some snake charmers while campaigning in Rae Bareli on Thursday.

The fourth generation of the naamdar family is even now projecting India as a land of snake charmers, while it is mouse charmers now, he charged, referring to the development of the IT sector.

But he did not directly name Priyanka Gandhi.

"IPL matches were played outside the country on two occasions, in 2009 and 2014, because the government did not give permission, citing elections. But now, elections are also happening and so is the IPL," he said.

Modi accused the Congress of cheating people in the name of various schemes.

"In Rajasthan, people are given forms for Rs 100 for getting Rs 72,000. This is how they cheat," he charged.

Polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan will be held in the fifth phase of the election on May 6. Thirteen other seats in the state went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP swept the state, winning all 25 seats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies. Addressing a rally in Sikar, he suggested that Congress leaders were confusing video games with such strikes. He said the party first ignored the strikes carried out under his government and then opposed them. Now it's me too, me too,he said using the English term. He also addressed public meetings in Hindaun and Bikaner, accusing Congress at both places of not acting strongly against terrorism. Only a mazboot' government can do so, he said. He expressed the Centre's solidarity with people in cyclone-hit states and said Rs 1,000 crore has already been released for relief work. Modi's remarks on retaliatory strikes against Pakistan-based terror groups come a day after the Congress claimed that six cross-border strikes were carried out during the UPA government's term as well. "They initially mocked and rejected the surgical strike but people had faith in me and they stood by me," the prime minister said, slamming the opposition. Modi said a Congress leader had claimed four months back that three surgical strikes were conducted during that party's term and now another leader is saying there were six. "The number increased from three to six in four months. By the time the elections are over, this will increase to 600. What does it matter when the strike is on paper? The Congress only tells lies," he said. He said the Congress leaders seem to play video games, and suggested that they treated surgical strikes in the same manner. He accused the Congress leaders of calling the Army chief a `goonda' (thug) and the Indian Air Force chief a 'lier', in an apparent reference to alleged remarks by Sandeep Dikshit and Veerappa Moily in past years. He said the Congress leaders do not trust the valour of the country's jawans and raise doubts on casualties inflicted on terrorists. "Do they intend to send 'chadars' to bury terrorists?" he asked, apparently referring to the oppsoition insistance on knowing the number of terrorist killed in the air strike in Pakistan after a terror attack in Kashmir. In Hindaun, Modi said instead of celebrating the UN decision on designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, the Congress is questioning its timing. "Should the UN ask the Congress, should it consult 'madam' or 'naamdar' before declaring him a global terrorist?" he said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. After the surgical strike and the (Balakot) air strike, the UN decision to declare Masood Azhar a global terrorist is the third international strike on terrorism," he said. He accused the Congress of being upset about all developments that are good for India, whether it is the UN decision on Azhar or the awards conferred on him by the United Arab Emirates and Russia. There is no comparison between the BJP and the Congress on tackling terrorism, he said, recalling the bomb blasts during the UPA government's term. Only a majboot' (strong) government can take decisions like retaliatory strikes against Pakistan, or deal with issues like the Doklam crisis, he said referring to the 2017 standoff between Indian and Chinese troops. In Bikaner, he referred to the long-delayed acquisition under his government of property which belonged to people who left for Pakistan during the 1947 Partition. He also took a dig at Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her interaction with some snake charmers while campaigning in Rae Bareli on Thursday. The fourth generation of the naamdar family is even now projecting India as a land of snake charmers, while it is mouse charmers now, he charged, referring to the development of the IT sector. But he did not directly name Priyanka Gandhi. "IPL matches were played outside the country on two occasions, in 2009 and 2014, because the government did not give permission, citing elections. But now, elections are also happening and so is the IPL," he said. Modi accused the Congress of cheating people in the name of various schemes. "In Rajasthan, people are given forms for Rs 100 for getting Rs 72,000. This is how they cheat," he charged. Polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan will be held in the fifth phase of the election on May 6. Thirteen other seats in the state went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP swept the state, winning all 25 seats.

Congress surgical strikes only on paper, party telling lies: PM Modi

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/masood-azhar-named-global-terrorist-how-it-will-affect-the-jem-chief-215077&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwia_cG2vP_hAhUJq48KHWXBDP8QFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0sBSU1xJ9Dy_7hHCEmAilB"> Masood Azhar </a>by the United Nations as an international terrorist.

"PM Modi used diplomacy to deal with terrorism and his friendly relations with popular leaders of the globe have helped India in getting the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-members-should-abide-by-un-sanctions-committees-decision-on-masood-azhar-un-chief-antonio-guterres-215365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ36XkvP_hAhXLuo8KHW1xCZ04ChAWMAF6BAgQEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2VK9jYaH09xJCRkAP8ITnY"> United Nations (UN)</a> designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist," he said addressing a press conference.&nbsp;

Praising Modi, Goyal said, "India`s emerging power in economy, diplomacy and the fight against terrorism should be credited to PM Modi and his leadership. The process of designating Masood Azhar as a global terrorist started in 2009 but Congress` leadership was weak. Today every citizen is proud that India has emerged as a powerful nation under PM Modi-led NDA government."

"Those who doubt and raise questions on surgical strikes and Balakot airstrike find themselves standing for the terrorists, unfortunately," he added.

Goyal said, "BJP always supported the fight against terrorism no matter whose government it was. We hope that opposition never let down India`s pride and defeat the intentions of terrorists...Even while in opposition, former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee went to UN (for India`s campaign) against terrorism. But now the opposition leaders are questioning our army and government, which is very unfortunate."

Commenting on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-moment-when-cyclone-fani-made-landfall-215559&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiflNL0vP_hAhXBvI8KHUicBn8QFjAFegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jFujC6aus5gFO5GpITN2t">Cyclone Fani</a>, the Railway minister said, "Cyclone Fani is considered the most dangerous in the past four decades. We pray for safety for all in Odisha and West Bengal."

The Centre has discussed with state governments and will provide all possible help.&nbsp;

On being asked who will win in the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, Goyal said, "BJP candidate from Amethi Smriti Irani will win and Congress president Rahul Gandhi has become a challenger instead."

He said, "Congress party is for the rich while BJP works for every section of society including the middle class...Under the Congress party, there were massive scams that made the country weak."

He questioned, "Why a businessman gives Rs 4 to 5 lakh as rent for Rahul Gandhi`s Rs 1 crore farmhouse. The company paying rent was scam-tainted and was under investigation in 2012-13. Rahul Gandhi should tell this to the people of Amethi and Wayanad."

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of Masood Azhar by the United Nations as an international terrorist.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s diplomacy and friendly relations with world leaders helped in the designation of Masood Azhar by the United Nations as an international terrorist. "PM Modi used diplomacy to deal with terrorism and his friendly relations with popular leaders of the globe have helped India in getting the United Nations (UN) designate Masood Azhar as an international terrorist," he said addressing a press conference. Praising Modi, Goyal said, "India`s emerging power in economy, diplomacy and the fight against terrorism should be credited to PM Modi and his leadership. The process of designating Masood Azhar as a global terrorist started in 2009 but Congress` leadership was weak. Today every citizen is proud that India has emerged as a powerful nation under PM Modi-led NDA government." "Those who doubt and raise questions on surgical strikes and Balakot airstrike find themselves standing for the terrorists, unfortunately," he added. Goyal said, "BJP always supported the fight against terrorism no matter whose government it was. We hope that opposition never let down India`s pride and defeat the intentions of terrorists...Even while in opposition, former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee went to UN (for India`s campaign) against terrorism. But now the opposition leaders are questioning our army and government, which is very unfortunate." Commenting on Cyclone Fani, the Railway minister said, "Cyclone Fani is considered the most dangerous in the past four decades. We pray for safety for all in Odisha and West Bengal." The Centre has discussed with state governments and will provide all possible help. On being asked who will win in the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi, Goyal said, "BJP candidate from Amethi Smriti Irani will win and Congress president Rahul Gandhi has become a challenger instead." He said, "Congress party is for the rich while BJP works for every section of society including the middle class...Under the Congress party, there were massive scams that made the country weak." He questioned, "Why a businessman gives Rs 4 to 5 lakh as rent for Rahul Gandhi`s Rs 1 crore farmhouse. The company paying rent was scam-tainted and was under investigation in 2012-13. Rahul Gandhi should tell this to the people of Amethi and Wayanad."

PM Modi's diplomacy helped in Azhar's designation as global terrorist: Piyush Goyal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/terrorist-attacks-had-become-daily-affair-during-congress-pm-modi-in-rajasthan-215640">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'.

"After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan.

"What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added.

"I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said.

"Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added.

The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes."

At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game. A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'. "After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan. "What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added. "I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said. "Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added. The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes." At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."

Congress earlier mocked surgical strikes, now saying 'me too, me too': PM Modi

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP.

The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading.

Bajpai joined the BJP in presence of the national vice president and Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, and Union Minister Vijay Goel, at the Delhi unit office here.

"I worked for the AAP for 15 years. I was hurt by a lack of respect and the peculiar type of functioning in the party. It has detracted from its original path", he said.

On Wednesday, Sisodia alleged that the BJP offered Rs 10 crore each to seven AAP MLAs to switch sides.

However, Bajpai denied having taken money for joining the BJP and said Kejriwal is in the habit of making allegations and then tendering apologies.

Former Delhi BJP president and Union minister Goel Thursday claimed not seven but 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with his party and wanted to quit AAP due to "frustration and humiliation".&nbsp;

Three municipal councillors of AAP also joined the BJP.&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP. The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading.

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP. The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading. Bajpai joined the BJP in presence of the national vice president and Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, and Union Minister Vijay Goel, at the Delhi unit office here. "I worked for the AAP for 15 years. I was hurt by a lack of respect and the peculiar type of functioning in the party. It has detracted from its original path", he said. On Wednesday, Sisodia alleged that the BJP offered Rs 10 crore each to seven AAP MLAs to switch sides. However, Bajpai denied having taken money for joining the BJP and said Kejriwal is in the habit of making allegations and then tendering apologies. Former Delhi BJP president and Union minister Goel Thursday claimed not seven but 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with his party and wanted to quit AAP due to "frustration and humiliation". Three municipal councillors of AAP also joined the BJP.

AAP Gandhi Nagar MLA Anil Bajpai joins BJP

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-shares-clip-of-last-poll-meeting-in-jaipur-says-it-is-clear-rajasthan-wants-bjp-215633"> Prime Minister Modi</a> said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

"When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-1000-crore-released-in-advance-for-cyclone-affected-states-pm-modi-215630">Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi</a>

While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal".

PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-slams-congress-for-questioning-timing-of-jem-chief-masood-azhars-listing-as-a-global-terrorist-215627">Azhar was declared international terrorist</a> while polls underway.

Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage".&nbsp;

"The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage".

"In 2009 &amp; 2014 they said, there's election. Police is&nbsp;busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime. "When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said. Also read: Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal". PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when Azhar was declared international terrorist while polls underway. Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage". "The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage". "In 2009 & 2014 they said, there's election. Police is busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorist attacks had become daily affair during Congress: PM Modi in Rajasthan

<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/rahul-kejriwal-cried-like-their-cousins-were-killed-in-balakot-airstrike-amit-shah-in-delhi-rally-215274&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjsrqKm9v7hAhXj7XMBHcQJCEcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3OTV4RR9SKzxl_GhuejlTZ">BJP president Amit Shahs </a>three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey and Ajsu party president and former deputy chief minister Sudesh Mahto will address the rallies, BJP Jharkhand unit Spokesman Pradip Sinha said here.

"The election rallies by party president Amit Shah Ji in Koderma, Khunti and Ranchi have been cancelled,"&nbsp;Sinha said in Ranchi.

Shah was scheduled to address the rallies ahead of the May 6 polling for the three Lok Sabha seats.

While former Jharkhand chief minister Arjun Munda is BJPs candidate from Khunti Lok Sabha constituency and pitted against Kalicharan Munda of the Congress, Sanjay Seth of the saffron party is fighting against former Union minister and Congress candidate Subodh Kant Sahay in the Ranchi seat.

The BJP has fielded Annapurna Devi from Koderma against Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) candidate and former chief minister Babulal Marandi.

Jharkhand's bordering districts like Dumka, East and West Singhbhum are on alert following the cyclonic storm Fani hitting the Odisha coast.

The administration has issued orders for closure of schools in the districts bordering Odisha.

BJP president Amit Shahs three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here.

BJP president Amit Shahs three election rallies in Jharkhand on Friday have been cancelled due to the cyclonic storm Fani which slammed the coast of neighbouring Odisha, a party leader said here. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey and Ajsu party president and former deputy chief minister Sudesh Mahto will address the rallies, BJP Jharkhand unit Spokesman Pradip Sinha said here. "The election rallies by party president Amit Shah Ji in Koderma, Khunti and Ranchi have been cancelled," Sinha said in Ranchi. Shah was scheduled to address the rallies ahead of the May 6 polling for the three Lok Sabha seats. While former Jharkhand chief minister Arjun Munda is BJPs candidate from Khunti Lok Sabha constituency and pitted against Kalicharan Munda of the Congress, Sanjay Seth of the saffron party is fighting against former Union minister and Congress candidate Subodh Kant Sahay in the Ranchi seat. The BJP has fielded Annapurna Devi from Koderma against Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) candidate and former chief minister Babulal Marandi. Jharkhand's bordering districts like Dumka, East and West Singhbhum are on alert following the cyclonic storm Fani hitting the Odisha coast. The administration has issued orders for closure of schools in the districts bordering Odisha.

Amit Shah's election rallies in Jharkhand cancelled due to cyclone Fani

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alka-lamba-skips-kejriwals-roadshow-says-she-was-insulted-by-aap-215343&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiG7tqi-P7hAhUL_XMBHfAlD8UQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0d0vud-oFNqwv7A9w_GCkd">AAP</a> leaders.

Taking a dig at Goyal, Kejriwal tweeted,&nbsp;"Goyal Sahib, baat kahan phasi hai? Aap kitna de rahe ho? Woh kitna mang rahe hain. (Where are you facing a deadlock? How much are you paying? How much are they demanding?)"

"Modi ji, will you topple every government run by an opposition party by buying MLAs in the respective states? Is this your definition of democracy? And from where do you bring so much money to buy MLAs? You have tried to buy our MLA many times. Buying AAP leaders is not easy at all," the Chief Minister asserted in another tweet.

On Thursday, Goel had said, "14 AAP MLAs want to leave the party because the party has gone astray from its objectives but the BJP does not need to buy these MLAs. Allegations of the BJP offering Rs 10 crores are false.''

All 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls in a single phase on May 12.

General elections in the country have been scheduled to be held in seven phases starting from April 11 and ending on May 19.

Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy AAP leaders.

Hitting out at Union Minister Vijay Goel after he claimed that 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with the BJP, willing to switch sides, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said it is not easy to buy AAP leaders. Taking a dig at Goyal, Kejriwal tweeted, "Goyal Sahib, baat kahan phasi hai? Aap kitna de rahe ho? Woh kitna mang rahe hain. (Where are you facing a deadlock? How much are you paying? How much are they demanding?)" "Modi ji, will you topple every government run by an opposition party by buying MLAs in the respective states? Is this your definition of democracy? And from where do you bring so much money to buy MLAs? You have tried to buy our MLA many times. Buying AAP leaders is not easy at all," the Chief Minister asserted in another tweet. On Thursday, Goel had said, "14 AAP MLAs want to leave the party because the party has gone astray from its objectives but the BJP does not need to buy these MLAs. Allegations of the BJP offering Rs 10 crores are false.'' All 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls in a single phase on May 12. General elections in the country have been scheduled to be held in seven phases starting from April 11 and ending on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

It's not easy to buy AAP leaders, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed officials to conduct re-elections at five polling stations in Andhra Pradesh on May 6.

Voting will be held in polling booths located in Guntur, Prakasam and Nellore districts, the ECI said in a letter dated May 01.

"I am directed to state that having considered the reports submitted by the Returning Officers read with the reports of the Observers and after taking al facts and materials into account, the Commission hereby declares under sub-section (2) (a) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll taken on April 11 at polling stations mentioned and appoints the May 6 as the date and fixes the hour as earlier fixed for poll on April 11 for taking a fresh poll at the said polling stations," the letter read.

This decision came after recommendations were made by collectors of the three districts for re-poll as on the day of voting, incidents of violence, malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and other circumstances prevented voters to cast their vote freely and in a fair manner.

Voting for all the 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies across Andhra Pradesh were held in a single phase on April 11. Results will be announced on May 23.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed officials to conduct re-elections at five polling stations in Andhra Pradesh on May 6. Voting will be held in polling booths located in Guntur, Prakasam and Nellore districts, the ECI said in a letter dated May 01.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed officials to conduct re-elections at five polling stations in Andhra Pradesh on May 6. Voting will be held in polling booths located in Guntur, Prakasam and Nellore districts, the ECI said in a letter dated May 01. "I am directed to state that having considered the reports submitted by the Returning Officers read with the reports of the Observers and after taking al facts and materials into account, the Commission hereby declares under sub-section (2) (a) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll taken on April 11 at polling stations mentioned and appoints the May 6 as the date and fixes the hour as earlier fixed for poll on April 11 for taking a fresh poll at the said polling stations," the letter read. This decision came after recommendations were made by collectors of the three districts for re-poll as on the day of voting, incidents of violence, malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and other circumstances prevented voters to cast their vote freely and in a fair manner. Voting for all the 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies across Andhra Pradesh were held in a single phase on April 11. Results will be announced on May 23.

Andhra Pradesh: Election Commission orders re-polling in five booths

The apex child rights body, NCPCR, has issued a notice to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over alleged use of children in election campaigning.

The details of the complaint or the complainant were not provided to the media.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) stated that the complaint pertains to a video in which children were seen using abusive language in front of Gandhi.

In its notice, the child rights body objected to the use of children in election campaigning.&nbsp;

It also underlined that the Bombay High Court in an order on August 4, 2014 said that children should not be included in election campaigns.

The body has asked the Congress general secretary to provide details, within three days, of the names and addresses of these children, places where sloganeering took place and how the children reached there. &nbsp;

The apex child rights body, NCPCR, has issued a notice to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over alleged use of children in election campaigning. The details of the complaint or the complainant were not provided to the media.

The apex child rights body, NCPCR, has issued a notice to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over alleged use of children in election campaigning. The details of the complaint or the complainant were not provided to the media. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) stated that the complaint pertains to a video in which children were seen using abusive language in front of Gandhi. In its notice, the child rights body objected to the use of children in election campaigning. It also underlined that the Bombay High Court in an order on August 4, 2014 said that children should not be included in election campaigns. The body has asked the Congress general secretary to provide details, within three days, of the names and addresses of these children, places where sloganeering took place and how the children reached there.

NCPCR notice to Priyanka Gandhi over use of children in electioneering

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power.

Shah addressed three rallies in Madhya Pradesh, where three phases of Lok Sabha polls are yet to be held.

Speaking at Ashta in Dewas Lok Sabha constituency, Shah said, "If elected to power again, Article 370 (which gives a special status to Jammu and Kashmir) will be wiped out from its roots."

On National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate PM for J&amp;K, Shah said the Congress also wanted a separate PM for Kashmir. 
"The Congress and the National Conference wanted to separate Kashmir from Hindustan. But the Modi government will never allow secession (of J&amp;K) from India," he said.

Even if Modi did not return to power, BJP workers will not allow Kashmir to secede, he said. "No BJP worker will let such a thing happen. We will scrap Article 370 if you make Modi the PM again," he added.

On Congress' promise to scrap the sedition law, he said, "The Congress is siding with those who shouted anti- national slogans. You talk about scrapping the sedition law. Tell me, if someone is caught spying for Pakistan, should action be taken under sedition law or not?"

"Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University) Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he said.

Shah slammed Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan.

"Rahul Baba's (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) guru Sam Pitroda made a statement...Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans or should we attack them? Congress says we should talk to them. Rahul Baba, you be happy with your policy. This is Narendra Modi government which will reply to gun fire with a bombshell," the BJP leader said.

Shah said people should not vote for the party for development if they so wish, but they must vote for Modi as he strengthened the country's security.

Speaking at Biora in Rajgarh district, Shah credited Modi for the UN Security Council designating JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. 
"Masood Azhar carried out several bomb blasts for several years. Nobody could get him declared an international terrorist. But yesterday was a golden day as he was declared a global terrorist," he said.

"Narendra Modi has isolated Pakistan in the world with his diplomacy. The entire world now stands with India and is supporting our country on the issue of (actions are taken in) self-defence," Shah said.

"During the UPA rule, there would be no response to terror attacks. After the Pulwama terror attack, there was anger and despair...But prime minister Narendra Modi ordered the IAF (to respond), which went deep inside Pakistan and destroyed terror camps," the BJP chief said.

"When the country was rejoicing (over the air strikes), there was mourning in two places - in Pakistan and in Rahul Gandhi-led Congress. Should we not bomb the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack," he asked.

Listing achievements of the NDA government such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Shah said, "I have seen Modi not taking a single day's leave in the last 20 years...He works 18 out of 24 hours for 365 days...On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi takes a long leave as temperature soar. Even his mother keeps searching for him."

Taking potshots at the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Shah alleged that within three months of it coming to power, transactions worth Rs 281 crore were unearthed during income tax raids at the premises of those close to chief minister Kamal Nath, and asked what will happen in five years.

Addressing a rally at Neemuch, Shah said under the Narendra Modi regime, a bullet fired by Pakistan will be met with a shell from India's side.

The Manmohan Singh government did not say a word when terrorists from Pakistan "beheaded Indian jawans", he alleged.

He alleged that the entire country celebrated India's retaliation in Balakot after the Pulwama terror attack, but Congress leaders were sad because "their vote-bank was sad".

"This is a BJP government. Narendra Modi is prime minister. If a bullet is fired from Pakistan, India will respond with a (bomb) shell," he said.&nbsp;

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power.

BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday claimed the Congress and National Conference wanted Kashmir's separation from India and vowed to scrap Article 370 if his party is voted back to power. Shah addressed three rallies in Madhya Pradesh, where three phases of Lok Sabha polls are yet to be held. Speaking at Ashta in Dewas Lok Sabha constituency, Shah said, "If elected to power again, Article 370 (which gives a special status to Jammu and Kashmir) will be wiped out from its roots." On National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate PM for J&K, Shah said the Congress also wanted a separate PM for Kashmir. "The Congress and the National Conference wanted to separate Kashmir from Hindustan. But the Modi government will never allow secession (of J&K) from India," he said. Even if Modi did not return to power, BJP workers will not allow Kashmir to secede, he said. "No BJP worker will let such a thing happen. We will scrap Article 370 if you make Modi the PM again," he added. On Congress' promise to scrap the sedition law, he said, "The Congress is siding with those who shouted anti- national slogans. You talk about scrapping the sedition law. Tell me, if someone is caught spying for Pakistan, should action be taken under sedition law or not?" "Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University) Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he said. Shah slammed Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan. "Rahul Baba's (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) guru Sam Pitroda made a statement...Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans or should we attack them? Congress says we should talk to them. Rahul Baba, you be happy with your policy. This is Narendra Modi government which will reply to gun fire with a bombshell," the BJP leader said. Shah said people should not vote for the party for development if they so wish, but they must vote for Modi as he strengthened the country's security. Speaking at Biora in Rajgarh district, Shah credited Modi for the UN Security Council designating JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. "Masood Azhar carried out several bomb blasts for several years. Nobody could get him declared an international terrorist. But yesterday was a golden day as he was declared a global terrorist," he said. "Narendra Modi has isolated Pakistan in the world with his diplomacy. The entire world now stands with India and is supporting our country on the issue of (actions are taken in) self-defence," Shah said. "During the UPA rule, there would be no response to terror attacks. After the Pulwama terror attack, there was anger and despair...But prime minister Narendra Modi ordered the IAF (to respond), which went deep inside Pakistan and destroyed terror camps," the BJP chief said. "When the country was rejoicing (over the air strikes), there was mourning in two places - in Pakistan and in Rahul Gandhi-led Congress. Should we not bomb the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack," he asked. Listing achievements of the NDA government such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Shah said, "I have seen Modi not taking a single day's leave in the last 20 years...He works 18 out of 24 hours for 365 days...On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi takes a long leave as temperature soar. Even his mother keeps searching for him." Taking potshots at the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Shah alleged that within three months of it coming to power, transactions worth Rs 281 crore were unearthed during income tax raids at the premises of those close to chief minister Kamal Nath, and asked what will happen in five years. Addressing a rally at Neemuch, Shah said under the Narendra Modi regime, a bullet fired by Pakistan will be met with a shell from India's side. The Manmohan Singh government did not say a word when terrorists from Pakistan "beheaded Indian jawans", he alleged. He alleged that the entire country celebrated India's retaliation in Balakot after the Pulwama terror attack, but Congress leaders were sad because "their vote-bank was sad". "This is a BJP government. Narendra Modi is prime minister. If a bullet is fired from Pakistan, India will respond with a (bomb) shell," he said.

Congress wants to separate Kashmir from India: Amit Shah

The Election Commission (EC) Thursday gave a clean chit to Prime minister Narendra Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali.

This is the third clean chit by the EC to the prime minister in connection with poll-related speeches.&nbsp;

Officials said the commission examined the matter in detail and it was of the "considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted."

The EC, they said, examined the complete certified transcript of the speech of 10 pages sent by the returning officer of the Barmer parliamentary constituency.

The Congress had moved the EC alleging that the prime minister "brazenly" violated the poll code by repeatedly invoking the armed forces in his speeches and demanded that a campaign ban be imposed on him for some time.

During a poll rally in Barmer on April 21, Modi had said India is no more afraid of Pakistan's nuclear threats.

"India has stopped getting scared of Pakistan's threats, I have done right, no? Else every other day they (Pakistan) used to say 'we have nuclear button'....What do we have then? Have we kept it (nuclear button) for Diwali?" he had said.&nbsp;

The Election Commission (EC) Thursday gave a clean chit to Prime minister Narendra Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali.

The Election Commission (EC) Thursday gave a clean chit to Prime minister Narendra Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali. This is the third clean chit by the EC to the prime minister in connection with poll-related speeches. Officials said the commission examined the matter in detail and it was of the "considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted." The EC, they said, examined the complete certified transcript of the speech of 10 pages sent by the returning officer of the Barmer parliamentary constituency. The Congress had moved the EC alleging that the prime minister "brazenly" violated the poll code by repeatedly invoking the armed forces in his speeches and demanded that a campaign ban be imposed on him for some time. During a poll rally in Barmer on April 21, Modi had said India is no more afraid of Pakistan's nuclear threats. "India has stopped getting scared of Pakistan's threats, I have done right, no? Else every other day they (Pakistan) used to say 'we have nuclear button'....What do we have then? Have we kept it (nuclear button) for Diwali?" he had said.

EC clean chit to PM Modi on 'nuclear button for Diwali' remark

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019.

Over 5.22 lakh electors are going to exercise their franchise in the twin districts spread over six assembly segments comprising Tral, Pampore, Pulwama, Rajpora, Wachi and Shopian. As many as 695 polling stations have been established across the districts for smooth conduct of the elections.

“These Southern Kashmir Districts have 522,530 electors including 271,127 males, 250,735 females, 657 service electors (646 males and 11 females) and 11 transgender voters,” an official from the administration said.&nbsp;

For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 450 polling stations across the Pulwama district. The comprises four assembly segments of Tral, Pampore, Pulwama and Rajpora.

“Similarly, Shopian District has 171,216 electors including 89,868 males, 81,227 females, 116 service electors (113 male and 03 female) and five transgender voters. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 245 polling stations across the district,” he said.&nbsp;

The candidates in the fray are Hasnain Masoodi of Jammu Kashmir National Conference, Sofi Yousuf of Bhartiya Janta Party, Ghulam Ahmad Mir of Indian National Congress, Mehbooba Mufti among others.

The Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency is spread over four districts comprising Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama.

The Anantnag and Kulgam districts of Anantnag PC went to polls on April 23 and April 29 respectively. The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 4 pm.

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019.

The Pulwama and Shopian districts of South Kashmir are slated to go to polls in the three-phase schedule for Anantnag Parliamentary constituency on May 06, 2019. Over 5.22 lakh electors are going to exercise their franchise in the twin districts spread over six assembly segments comprising Tral, Pampore, Pulwama, Rajpora, Wachi and Shopian. As many as 695 polling stations have been established across the districts for smooth conduct of the elections. “These Southern Kashmir Districts have 522,530 electors including 271,127 males, 250,735 females, 657 service electors (646 males and 11 females) and 11 transgender voters,” an official from the administration said. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 450 polling stations across the Pulwama district. The comprises four assembly segments of Tral, Pampore, Pulwama and Rajpora. “Similarly, Shopian District has 171,216 electors including 89,868 males, 81,227 females, 116 service electors (113 male and 03 female) and five transgender voters. For smooth polling, the ECI has set up 245 polling stations across the district,” he said. The candidates in the fray are Hasnain Masoodi of Jammu Kashmir National Conference, Sofi Yousuf of Bhartiya Janta Party, Ghulam Ahmad Mir of Indian National Congress, Mehbooba Mufti among others. The Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency is spread over four districts comprising Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama. The Anantnag and Kulgam districts of Anantnag PC went to polls on April 23 and April 29 respectively. The voting timing has been fixed from 7 am to 4 pm.

Over 5.22 lakh voters in J&K's Pulwama and Shopian districts to cast their votes on May 6