<p>Drawing the battle lines, opposition parties on Friday resolved to take on the BJP unitedly in 2024 Lok Sabha elections at a crucial meeting in Patna, the capital of&nbsp;the eastern Indian state of Bihar, even as fissures emerged with the AAP asserting that it would be difficult for it to be part of any such gathering in future till the Congress publicly supports it on the ordinance issue.</p>

<p>At a joint press meeting, opposition parties said they would fight the polls on a common agenda and state-wise strategy, setting aside their differences with a flexible approach.</p>

<p>The plan of action is expected to be formulated at the second meeting to be chaired by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, tentatively on July 10 or 12, in Shimla.</p>

<p>"We will have to evolve separate plans for every state and will work together to dethrone the BJP at the Centre," Kharge said.</p>

<p>Launching a blistering attack on the BJP, West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee claimed that if the "dictatorial government" at the Centre returns to power this time, there will be no elections in the future.</p>

<p>Over 32 leaders of more than a dozen political parties attended the meeting hosted by Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar at his 1, Aney Marg residence.</p>

<p>While Mayawati (BSP), Naveen Patnaik (BJD), K Chandrashekar Rao (BRS)&nbsp; and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (YSRCP) were not invited, RLD leader Jayant Chaudhary did not attend the meeting due to a "predetermined family programme".</p>

<p>There was lack of clarity on the exact number of parties that pledged to take on the BJP unitedly with leaders such as Nitish Kumar and Banerjee putting the number at 17 and some others like Yechury stating that 15 parties were there.</p>

<p>The BJP reacted strongly to the Opposition meeting, calling it a "multi-headed selfish alliance" and compared it with wolves hunting in packs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Home Minister Amit Shah described the opposition unity meeting as a mere "photo session".</p>

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<p>Despite repeated assertions by the opposition parties that they were united, fissures in their ranks became apparent when AAP issued a statement after the meeting, claiming that the Congress has "refused" to publicly denounce the Centre's ordinance on Delhi's administrative services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;'Adipurush' film ban lifted in Nepal | backlash continues</strong></p>

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<p>The Arvind Kejriwal-led outfit said that until the Congress publicly denounces the Centre's ordinance on Delhi's administrative services and declares that all 31 of its RS MPs will oppose the ordinance in the Rajya Sabha, it will be difficult for AAP to participate in future meetings of like-minded parties where the Congress is a participant.</p>

<p>The Congress' silence raises suspicions about its real intentions, the AAP said.</p>

<p>West Bengal CM asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal to sort out their issues on the Delhi Ordinance over a cup of tea at a later date, reminding them that the Patna meeting was not the ideal forum for the discussion, sources said.</p>

<p>According to sources, Congress chief Kharge gave in-principle support on the issue, saying his party doesn't support anything unconstitutional. The Congress has a set mechanism for taking up issues and an announcement on it will be done at a later date, he said.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Congress chief had said the party will take a decision before monsoon session of Parliament.</p>

<p>Sources said at no point Kejriwal threatened to walk out of the meeting.</p>

<p>In fact, all the opposition party members in attendance sided with the Congress and maintained that the Congress' line on the issue was a "reasonable one".&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi said that he was attending the meeting with a clean slate "without any memory of past likes or dislikes with any of the parties in attendance", according to sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said he and his party would do anything to keep the opposition parties together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We may have some differences but have decided to work together with flexibility and will work to protect our ideology," Gandhi said and alleged that India's foundations and institutions were being attacked.</p>

<p>The Congress leader also suggested that the Opposition would have to break the financial, institutional and constitutional monopoly of the BJP to defeat it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banerjee during her address said it was important for all parties to ensure support for the Congress wherever the party was the strongest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the meeting, RJD chief Lalu Prasad was given a rousing welcome by the opposition party leaders as he started his speech as the second speaker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yadav suggested that for the 2024 general election, the opposition fight should be led by the biggest party in each state and requested&nbsp;the Congress to be generous in sharing seats.</p>

<p>Bihar CM, who was the first to speak, said that while 15 opposition parties were in attendance, at least 10 more will be joining the ranks soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kejriwal said for the 2024 election, the motto should be "nation first, party second."&nbsp; He said when parties give up seats for their partners, their victory should be a victory for the united front.</p>

<p>Jharkhand's Hemant Soren (JMM), Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav, Maharashtra's former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena-UBT), National Conference Leader Omar Abdullah and NCP president Sharad Pawar were also among the leaders who attended the nearly four-hours-long meeting.</p>

<p>Kumar (JD(U) and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav (RJD), who hosted the meeting, as well as Peoples Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti, CPI general secretary D Raja, CPI (ML) leader Dipankar Bhattacharya and CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury were also present at the meeting and the joint presser.</p>

<p>However, Kejriwal and his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalin did not participate in the press briefing. Stalin had to catch a flight for prior commitments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kumar, however, said both had to leave as they had to take their plane back home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking with reporters after reaching Chennai, Stalin said the meeting did not decide on fielding a common prime ministerial candidate but resolved to consolidate all democratic forces to defeat the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha election.</p>

<p>There have also been tensions between the Congress and TMC over the Panchayat polls violence in West Bengal but they seemed to have taken a backseat Friday with Banerjee asserting that the Opposition has resolved to fight the BJP unitedly.</p>

<p>Banerjee said she had urged Kumar to organise the first meeting in Patna as "whatever starts from Patna, takes the shape of a people's movement".</p>

<p>She said there are three key takeaways from the meeting in Patna -- the opposition is united, it will fight together and the fight is against the BJP's "tyrannical rule and vendetta politics." "The BJP wants to change history but we'll ensure that history is saved," she said.</p>

<p>NCP supremo Sharad Pawar said just like the JP movement, "our united front will get the blessings of the public".</p>

<p>"The message from the Patna meeting is clear for all of us that we need to work together to save the country," said Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav.</p>

<p>Jharkhand Chief Minister and JMM leader Soren said today's beginning will prove to be a milestone for the country and all leaders will move together with positive thinking.</p>

<p>At the press conference, Uddhav Thackeray said, "we will stand against the tyrants", referring to the BJP.</p>

<p>He said parties can have different ideologies and differences but they belong to one country and will work together to save the people from those in power currently.</p>

<p>On his part NC leader Omar Abdullah said parties from Kashmir to Kanyakumari have come together "not for power, but for principles and to save the Constitution".</p>

<p>CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury said the main issue is to protect the character of our secular democratic country which the "BJP wants to change".</p>

<p>CPI leader D Raja alleged that BJP's nine-year rule has become "disastrous and detrimental" to the constitution of our country.</p>

<p>"We can't let Gandhi's India become Godse's country," PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti said after the meeting.</p>

<p>In the current Lok Sabha, the combined strength of these parties accounts for less than 200 of the 543 seats, though their leaders are hopeful of together turning the tables on the saffron party which enjoys a brute majority with a 300-plus tally.</p>

<p>The Congress, which is seen as the principal rival of&nbsp; BJP, had won 52 seats in 2019, a slight improvement over its 2014 performance when it won only 44 - an all-time low.&nbsp;</p>


Drawing the battle lines, opposition parties on Friday resolved to take on the BJP unitedly in 2024 Lok Sabha elections at a crucial meeting in Patna, the capital of the eastern Indian state of Bihar, even as fissures emerged with the AAP asserting that it would be difficult for it to be part of any such gathering in future till the Congress publicly supports it on the ordinance issue.

Drawing the battle lines, opposition parties on Friday resolved to take on the BJP unitedly in 2024 Lok Sabha elections at a crucial meeting in Patna, the capital of the eastern Indian state of Bihar, even as fissures emerged with the AAP asserting that it would be difficult for it to be part of any such gathering in future till the Congress publicly supports it on the ordinance issue. At a joint press meeting, opposition parties said they would fight the polls on a common agenda and state-wise strategy, setting aside their differences with a flexible approach. The plan of action is expected to be formulated at the second meeting to be chaired by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, tentatively on July 10 or 12, in Shimla. "We will have to evolve separate plans for every state and will work together to dethrone the BJP at the Centre," Kharge said. Launching a blistering attack on the BJP, West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee claimed that if the "dictatorial government" at the Centre returns to power this time, there will be no elections in the future. Over 32 leaders of more than a dozen political parties attended the meeting hosted by Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar at his 1, Aney Marg residence. While Mayawati (BSP), Naveen Patnaik (BJD), K Chandrashekar Rao (BRS) and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (YSRCP) were not invited, RLD leader Jayant Chaudhary did not attend the meeting due to a "predetermined family programme". There was lack of clarity on the exact number of parties that pledged to take on the BJP unitedly with leaders such as Nitish Kumar and Banerjee putting the number at 17 and some others like Yechury stating that 15 parties were there. The BJP reacted strongly to the Opposition meeting, calling it a "multi-headed selfish alliance" and compared it with wolves hunting in packs. Home Minister Amit Shah described the opposition unity meeting as a mere "photo session". Also read | Indian education agent arrested in Canada in connection with fake college admission letters scandal Despite repeated assertions by the opposition parties that they were united, fissures in their ranks became apparent when AAP issued a statement after the meeting, claiming that the Congress has "refused" to publicly denounce the Centre's ordinance on Delhi's administrative services. Also watch | 'Adipurush' film ban lifted in Nepal | backlash continues The Arvind Kejriwal-led outfit said that until the Congress publicly denounces the Centre's ordinance on Delhi's administrative services and declares that all 31 of its RS MPs will oppose the ordinance in the Rajya Sabha, it will be difficult for AAP to participate in future meetings of like-minded parties where the Congress is a participant. The Congress' silence raises suspicions about its real intentions, the AAP said. West Bengal CM asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal to sort out their issues on the Delhi Ordinance over a cup of tea at a later date, reminding them that the Patna meeting was not the ideal forum for the discussion, sources said. According to sources, Congress chief Kharge gave in-principle support on the issue, saying his party doesn't support anything unconstitutional. The Congress has a set mechanism for taking up issues and an announcement on it will be done at a later date, he said. Earlier, the Congress chief had said the party will take a decision before monsoon session of Parliament. Sources said at no point Kejriwal threatened to walk out of the meeting. In fact, all the opposition party members in attendance sided with the Congress and maintained that the Congress' line on the issue was a "reasonable one". During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi said that he was attending the meeting with a clean slate "without any memory of past likes or dislikes with any of the parties in attendance", according to sources. He also said he and his party would do anything to keep the opposition parties together. "We may have some differences but have decided to work together with flexibility and will work to protect our ideology," Gandhi said and alleged that India's foundations and institutions were being attacked. The Congress leader also suggested that the Opposition would have to break the financial, institutional and constitutional monopoly of the BJP to defeat it. Banerjee during her address said it was important for all parties to ensure support for the Congress wherever the party was the strongest. During the meeting, RJD chief Lalu Prasad was given a rousing welcome by the opposition party leaders as he started his speech as the second speaker. Yadav suggested that for the 2024 general election, the opposition fight should be led by the biggest party in each state and requested the Congress to be generous in sharing seats. Bihar CM, who was the first to speak, said that while 15 opposition parties were in attendance, at least 10 more will be joining the ranks soon. Kejriwal said for the 2024 election, the motto should be "nation first, party second." He said when parties give up seats for their partners, their victory should be a victory for the united front. Jharkhand's Hemant Soren (JMM), Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav, Maharashtra's former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena-UBT), National Conference Leader Omar Abdullah and NCP president Sharad Pawar were also among the leaders who attended the nearly four-hours-long meeting. Kumar (JD(U) and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav (RJD), who hosted the meeting, as well as Peoples Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti, CPI general secretary D Raja, CPI (ML) leader Dipankar Bhattacharya and CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury were also present at the meeting and the joint presser. However, Kejriwal and his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalin did not participate in the press briefing. Stalin had to catch a flight for prior commitments. Kumar, however, said both had to leave as they had to take their plane back home. Speaking with reporters after reaching Chennai, Stalin said the meeting did not decide on fielding a common prime ministerial candidate but resolved to consolidate all democratic forces to defeat the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. There have also been tensions between the Congress and TMC over the Panchayat polls violence in West Bengal but they seemed to have taken a backseat Friday with Banerjee asserting that the Opposition has resolved to fight the BJP unitedly. Banerjee said she had urged Kumar to organise the first meeting in Patna as "whatever starts from Patna, takes the shape of a people's movement". She said there are three key takeaways from the meeting in Patna -- the opposition is united, it will fight together and the fight is against the BJP's "tyrannical rule and vendetta politics." "The BJP wants to change history but we'll ensure that history is saved," she said. NCP supremo Sharad Pawar said just like the JP movement, "our united front will get the blessings of the public". "The message from the Patna meeting is clear for all of us that we need to work together to save the country," said Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. Jharkhand Chief Minister and JMM leader Soren said today's beginning will prove to be a milestone for the country and all leaders will move together with positive thinking. At the press conference, Uddhav Thackeray said, "we will stand against the tyrants", referring to the BJP. He said parties can have different ideologies and differences but they belong to one country and will work together to save the people from those in power currently. On his part NC leader Omar Abdullah said parties from Kashmir to Kanyakumari have come together "not for power, but for principles and to save the Constitution". CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury said the main issue is to protect the character of our secular democratic country which the "BJP wants to change". CPI leader D Raja alleged that BJP's nine-year rule has become "disastrous and detrimental" to the constitution of our country. "We can't let Gandhi's India become Godse's country," PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti said after the meeting. In the current Lok Sabha, the combined strength of these parties accounts for less than 200 of the 543 seats, though their leaders are hopeful of together turning the tables on the saffron party which enjoys a brute majority with a 300-plus tally. The Congress, which is seen as the principal rival of BJP, had won 52 seats in 2019, a slight improvement over its 2014 performance when it won only 44 - an all-time low.

India: Opposition unites, sets sights on winning 2024 polls, next conclave in Shimla to forge agenda

India's iconic rock band Parikrama share their views on technology and whether AI is a threat to musicians. Watch for more.

Decoding the influence of tech on the music industry | Tech It Out

World music day on the 21st of June each year, is an initiative that started 41 years ago in France to celebrate the spirit of Music. It has spread worldwide over the years and is called the Fete de la music. Now here is a glimpse of how India celebrated the festival over 14 days with events across different cities organized by the French Cultural Institute in India as we leave you with this story enjoy!

India celebrates Fete de la Musique

Four terrorists trying to infiltrate from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara. The terrorists were neutralised in a joint operation by police and the Indian Army.

Jammu & Kashmir: Four terrorists killed in an encounter with Indian army, J&K police | India

Sarod maestro Amaan Ali Bangash expresses his views on the impact of tech on Indian classical music.

Indian classical music in the age of technology

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden are holding bilateral talks at the Oval Office in the White House. The leaders will talk to the media shortly. Some big announcements will be made. What is on the cards? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: What to expect from PM Modi & Biden's bilateral talks?

The joint communique issued by India & the US takes an indirect aim at China. It stresses on the importance of freedom of navigation & overflight in the East & South China seas. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is China the driving factor behind India, US closeness?

<p>A Vistara flight from Mumbai to Delhi experienced a delay of four hours on Thursday due to an incident involving a male passenger who had to be deplaned and subsequently arrested for shouting 'hijack' just before take-off. Following standard operating procedure (SOP), the authorities conducted a search of the plane before granting fresh clearance for departure.</p>

<p>A Vistara spokesperson emphasised that the airline immediately informed the authorities and handed over the passenger, identified as Ritesh Sanjaykumar Juneja. The SOP required a comprehensive check of the aircraft, which was performed before the flight could proceed with the remaining passengers.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-envoy-as-bidens-dictator-remark-about-xi-sparks-controversy-607820">China lambasts US envoy as Biden's 'dictator' remark about Xi sparks controversy</a></p>

<p>Following a complaint from the flight crew, Juneja was arrested on a Vistara flight scheduled to depart from Mumbai at 6:30 pm.</p>

<p>As a result, the flight experienced a delay, departing at 10:30 pm. The airline spokesperson confirmed the incident involving an unruly passenger on Vistara flight UK 996, which was intended to operate from Mumbai to Delhi.</p>

<p>The incident occurred as the flight was preparing for departure, prompting suspicion and necessitating the deboarding of all passengers for a detailed inspection of both the aircraft and the passengers involved.</p>

<h2><strong>Claim of mental instability</strong></h2>

<p>Juneja claimed to be mentally ill, as reported by the police. An unnamed police officer stated that Juneja attributed his behaviour to mental instability.</p>

<p>"He claims to be unstable, due to which he had such a conversation on the flight," the police officer said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-combat-ship-to-make-rare-port-call-in-vietnam-amid-south-china-sea-tensions-607798">US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions</a></p>

<p>The authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 336, which pertains to endangering the life or personal safety of others. The matter is currently under investigation, as per the officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Indian PM Modi and US President Biden stress democracy, minority rights in joint press conference</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Safety measures and zero-tolerance policy</strong></h2>

<p>Due to the incident, additional checks were conducted on all passengers and their handbags before the flight could proceed. Vistara reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against unruly behaviour that jeopardises the safety and security of its customers and staff.</p>

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A Vistara flight from Mumbai to Delhi experienced a delay of four hours on Thursday due to an incident involving a male passenger who had to be deplaned and subsequently arrested for shouting 'hijack' just before take-off.

A Vistara flight from Mumbai to Delhi experienced a delay of four hours on Thursday due to an incident involving a male passenger who had to be deplaned and subsequently arrested for shouting 'hijack' just before take-off. Following standard operating procedure (SOP), the authorities conducted a search of the plane before granting fresh clearance for departure. A Vistara spokesperson emphasised that the airline immediately informed the authorities and handed over the passenger, identified as Ritesh Sanjaykumar Juneja. The SOP required a comprehensive check of the aircraft, which was performed before the flight could proceed with the remaining passengers. Also Read | China lambasts US envoy as Biden's 'dictator' remark about Xi sparks controversy Following a complaint from the flight crew, Juneja was arrested on a Vistara flight scheduled to depart from Mumbai at 6:30 pm. As a result, the flight experienced a delay, departing at 10:30 pm. The airline spokesperson confirmed the incident involving an unruly passenger on Vistara flight UK 996, which was intended to operate from Mumbai to Delhi. The incident occurred as the flight was preparing for departure, prompting suspicion and necessitating the deboarding of all passengers for a detailed inspection of both the aircraft and the passengers involved. Claim of mental instability Juneja claimed to be mentally ill, as reported by the police. An unnamed police officer stated that Juneja attributed his behaviour to mental instability. "He claims to be unstable, due to which he had such a conversation on the flight," the police officer said, as per media reports. Also Read | US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions The authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 336, which pertains to endangering the life or personal safety of others. The matter is currently under investigation, as per the officer. Watch | Indian PM Modi and US President Biden stress democracy, minority rights in joint press conference × Safety measures and zero-tolerance policy Due to the incident, additional checks were conducted on all passengers and their handbags before the flight could proceed. Vistara reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against unruly behaviour that jeopardises the safety and security of its customers and staff. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: Man arrested for shouting 'hijack' on Vistara flight, causing delay and thorough inspection

At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in Jammu & Kashmir's Kupwara

A little less than 10 days after news reports pointed to a major data breach in the COVID-19 vaccination portal CoWIN, the Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested a man and apprehended his minor brother from India's eastern state of Bihar.

India: Two brothers in Bihar arrested in CoWIN data leak case

<p>In his speech to a combined session of the US Congress, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the considerable number of people residing in the United States with ancestral connections to India. The room burst into an applause&nbsp;when PM Modi specifically highlighted the momentous accomplishment of Kamala Harris, who was elected as the Vice President of the United States.</p>

<p>“There are millions in the US who have roots in India and some of them sit in this chamber. One of them is siiting behind, who has made history (pointing to Kamala Harris). I am told that Samosa Caucus is now the flavour of the House. I hope it grows and brings full diversity of Indian cuisine here,” PM Modi said.<br />
<br />
Samosa Caucus, named after the popular snack, refers to a group of elected members of the US Congress having&nbsp;Indian ancestry.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the 'Samosa Caucus'?</strong></h2>

<p>Subramanian Raja Krishnamoorthi, the representative for Illinois's 8th Congressional district in the United States, had popularised the term 'Samosa Caucus' to describe the growing community of Indian-American lawmakers, commonly referred to as "desi."</p>

<p>This caucus includes notable individuals such as Ro Khanna, Pramila Jaipal, Shri Thanedar, and Ami Bera, all of whom belong to the Democratic Party. While the 'Samosa Caucus' is not an official caucus, the shared cultural identity fosters closer ties and facilitates engagement with the US Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-at-us-congress-momentous-developments-in-another-al-america-and-india-607562">PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India</a></p>

<p>Ro Khanna emphasised the importance of representation in serving Indian-American communities and working to strengthen the defence and strategic partnership between the United States and India. Similarly, Krishnamoorthi pledged to address crucial issues affecting the community, such as high-skilled immigration reform and reinforcing the US-India partnership.</p>

<p>Currently composed entirely of Democrats, the 'Samosa Caucus' aligns with the presidency of Joe Biden.</p>

<p>The 'Samosa Caucus' is just beginning its journey within the Indian-American community's political landscape.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi on democracy and free speech</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced inquiries during a press conference regarding the topics of free speech and religious freedom in India. A reporter from the United States specifically questioned the prime minister about instances of discrimination against minority communities and inquired about the government's efforts to enhance the rights of these marginalized groups within the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;First lady Jill Biden plans the state dinner menu with guest chef Nina Curtis</strong></p>

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<p>PM Modi in his reply said that both India and America have "democracy in their DNA".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are a democracy...India and America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit and we live it and it's written in our Constitution," he said.</p>

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In his speech to a combined session of the US Congress, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the considerable number of people residing in the United States with ancestral connections to India.

In his speech to a combined session of the US Congress, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the considerable number of people residing in the United States with ancestral connections to India. The room burst into an applause when PM Modi specifically highlighted the momentous accomplishment of Kamala Harris, who was elected as the Vice President of the United States. “There are millions in the US who have roots in India and some of them sit in this chamber. One of them is siiting behind, who has made history (pointing to Kamala Harris). I am told that Samosa Caucus is now the flavour of the House. I hope it grows and brings full diversity of Indian cuisine here,” PM Modi said. Samosa Caucus, named after the popular snack, refers to a group of elected members of the US Congress having Indian ancestry. What's the 'Samosa Caucus'? Subramanian Raja Krishnamoorthi, the representative for Illinois's 8th Congressional district in the United States, had popularised the term 'Samosa Caucus' to describe the growing community of Indian-American lawmakers, commonly referred to as "desi." This caucus includes notable individuals such as Ro Khanna, Pramila Jaipal, Shri Thanedar, and Ami Bera, all of whom belong to the Democratic Party. While the 'Samosa Caucus' is not an official caucus, the shared cultural identity fosters closer ties and facilitates engagement with the US Congress. Also read | PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India Ro Khanna emphasised the importance of representation in serving Indian-American communities and working to strengthen the defence and strategic partnership between the United States and India. Similarly, Krishnamoorthi pledged to address crucial issues affecting the community, such as high-skilled immigration reform and reinforcing the US-India partnership. Currently composed entirely of Democrats, the 'Samosa Caucus' aligns with the presidency of Joe Biden. The 'Samosa Caucus' is just beginning its journey within the Indian-American community's political landscape. Modi on democracy and free speech Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced inquiries during a press conference regarding the topics of free speech and religious freedom in India. A reporter from the United States specifically questioned the prime minister about instances of discrimination against minority communities and inquired about the government's efforts to enhance the rights of these marginalized groups within the country. Also watch | First lady Jill Biden plans the state dinner menu with guest chef Nina Curtis PM Modi in his reply said that both India and America have "democracy in their DNA". "We are a democracy...India and America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit and we live it and it's written in our Constitution," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Modi lauds VP Kamala Harris, talks about 'Samosa Caucus' flavour of US Congress

<p>Hours after senior Democrat leader Bernie Sanders urged US President Joe Biden to call out Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly cracking down on the press and civil society, the White House has responded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan said President Biden will not 'lecture' PM Modi on democracy. Sullivan said Washington will raise America's&nbsp;concerns in a way that does not come across as sanctimonious.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We do so in a way where we don’t seek to lecture or assert that we don’t have challenges ourselves,” said Sullivan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ultimately, the question of where politics and the question of democratic institutions go in India is going to be determined within India by Indians. It’s not going to be determined by the United States,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-gifts-presented-by-indian-pm-to-president-joe-biden-and-first-lady-jill-biden-607148"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;What are the gifts presented by Indian PM to President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Sanders' tirade</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, left-leaning Sanders in a tweet tirade said&nbsp;PM Modi had been going after the minorities and requested Biden to raise the 'facts' during his meeting with the Indian leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Prime Minister Modi's government has cracked down on the press and civil society, jailed political opponents, and pushed an aggressive Hindu nationalism that leaves little space for India's religious minorities. President Biden should raise these facts in his meeting with Modi,” Sanders tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Modi's government has cracked down on the press and civil society, jailed political opponents, and pushed an aggressive Hindu nationalism that leaves little space for India's religious minorities. President Biden should raise these facts in his meeting with Modi.</p>
— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSanders/status/1671571610648576016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar to boycott PM Modi's speech</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to Sanders, two Muslim congresswomen - Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib had announced their&nbsp;decision to boycott PM Modi's speech at the joint session of the US Congress on Thursday, saying the Indian government had repressed 'religious minorities'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s shameful that Modi has been given a platform at our nation’s capital—his long history of human rights abuses, anti-democratic actions, targeting Muslims &amp; religious minorities, and censoring journalists is unacceptable. I will be boycotting Modi’s joint address to Congress," wrote Tlaib.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s shameful that Modi has been given a platform at our nation’s capital—his long history of human rights abuses, anti-democratic actions, targeting Muslims &amp; religious minorities, and censoring journalists is unacceptable.<br />
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I will be boycotting Modi’s joint address to Congress.</p>
— Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (@RepRashida) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepRashida/status/1671179922197340160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Omar tweeted, "Prime Minister Modi’s government has repressed religious minorities, emboldened violent Hindu nationalist groups, and targeted journalists/human rights advocates with impunity. I will NOT be attending Modi’s speech."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-invites-us-students-to-india-as-he-kicks-off-official-visit-607127"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi invites US students to India as he kicks off official visit</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-invites-us-students-to-india-as-he-kicks-off-official-visit-607127/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Earlier, 75 Democrats, led by Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Pramila Jayapal had written a letter to Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As longtime supporters of a strong US-India relationship, we also believe that friends can and should discuss their differences in an honest and forthright way. That is why we respectfully request that — in addition to the many areas of shared interests between India and the US — you also raise directly with Prime Minister Modi areas of concern," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi embarked upon his first state visit to the US on 21 June. He kicked off the visit by attending the historic Yoga Day celebrations outside UN Headquarters in New York. On Wednesday, President Biden and First Lady Dr Jill Biden received PM Modi at the White House for a private dinner.</p>

<p>The Indian PM will attend a state dinner on Thursday night, after addressing a joint session of Congress and holding a press conference with Biden.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Hours after senior Democrat leader Bernie Sanders urged US President Joe Biden to call out Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly cracking down on the press and civil society, the White House has responded.

Hours after senior Democrat leader Bernie Sanders urged US President Joe Biden to call out Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly cracking down on the press and civil society, the White House has responded. US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan said President Biden will not 'lecture' PM Modi on democracy. Sullivan said Washington will raise America's concerns in a way that does not come across as sanctimonious. “We do so in a way where we don’t seek to lecture or assert that we don’t have challenges ourselves,” said Sullivan. “Ultimately, the question of where politics and the question of democratic institutions go in India is going to be determined within India by Indians. It’s not going to be determined by the United States,” he added. Also read | What are the gifts presented by Indian PM to President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden? Sanders' tirade Earlier, left-leaning Sanders in a tweet tirade said PM Modi had been going after the minorities and requested Biden to raise the 'facts' during his meeting with the Indian leader. “Prime Minister Modi's government has cracked down on the press and civil society, jailed political opponents, and pushed an aggressive Hindu nationalism that leaves little space for India's religious minorities. President Biden should raise these facts in his meeting with Modi,” Sanders tweeted. Prime Minister Modi's government has cracked down on the press and civil society, jailed political opponents, and pushed an aggressive Hindu nationalism that leaves little space for India's religious minorities. President Biden should raise these facts in his meeting with Modi. — Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) June 21, 2023 × Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar to boycott PM Modi's speech Prior to Sanders, two Muslim congresswomen - Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib had announced their decision to boycott PM Modi's speech at the joint session of the US Congress on Thursday, saying the Indian government had repressed 'religious minorities'. “It’s shameful that Modi has been given a platform at our nation’s capital—his long history of human rights abuses, anti-democratic actions, targeting Muslims & religious minorities, and censoring journalists is unacceptable. I will be boycotting Modi’s joint address to Congress," wrote Tlaib. It’s shameful that Modi has been given a platform at our nation’s capital—his long history of human rights abuses, anti-democratic actions, targeting Muslims & religious minorities, and censoring journalists is unacceptable. I will be boycotting Modi’s joint address to Congress. — Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (@RepRashida) June 20, 2023 × Meanwhile, Omar tweeted, "Prime Minister Modi’s government has repressed religious minorities, emboldened violent Hindu nationalist groups, and targeted journalists/human rights advocates with impunity. I will NOT be attending Modi’s speech." WATCH | Indian PM Modi invites US students to India as he kicks off official visit Earlier, 75 Democrats, led by Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Pramila Jayapal had written a letter to Biden. “As longtime supporters of a strong US-India relationship, we also believe that friends can and should discuss their differences in an honest and forthright way. That is why we respectfully request that — in addition to the many areas of shared interests between India and the US — you also raise directly with Prime Minister Modi areas of concern," read the letter. PM Modi embarked upon his first state visit to the US on 21 June. He kicked off the visit by attending the historic Yoga Day celebrations outside UN Headquarters in New York. On Wednesday, President Biden and First Lady Dr Jill Biden received PM Modi at the White House for a private dinner. The Indian PM will attend a state dinner on Thursday night, after addressing a joint session of Congress and holding a press conference with Biden. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sanders asks Biden to call out Modi, White House says 'will not lecture India on democracy'

India slammed China at the UN for blocking a bid to designate 26/11 accused Sajid Mir as a global terrorist. Molly Gambhir brings you a report on India's response.

Gravitas: India slams China for blocking bid to designate 26/11 terrorist

From the Russia-Ukraine war to the Indo-Pacific tensions, the MQ9 drones from the US-based manufacturer General Atomics have emerged as one of the most vital aerial assets for the US and its allies. The Indian government recently approved the purchase of 31 General Atomics MQ9B Predator drones. General Atomics CEO Vivek Lall speaks about the importance of drone technology in the Indo-Pacific region.

General Atomics CEO Vivek Lall on US-India ties

The First Lady Jill Biden personally looked after the menu with guest chef Nina Curtis to curate a one-of-a-kind plant-based menu. What was on the menu? How was the State Dinner one-of-a-kind? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | State Dinner: What was on the menu?

PM Narendra Modi & US President Joe Biden exchanged several gifts during their meeting at the White House. Biden gifted the Indian PM a vintage camera & a wildlife photography book. PM Modi presented Biden with a sandalwood box with an idol of Lord Ganesha. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: The gifts PM Modi & President Biden exchanged at the White House

PM Narendra Modi's visit to the US is set to strengthen India-US defence ties. Molly Gambhir takes you through the deals the two countries are expected to sign during the visit.

Gravitas: The future of India, US defence ties

A restaurant explosion in Yinchuan City of China has killed at least 31 people And left 7 injured with one in a critical situation. According to an initial report A liquefied petroleum gas leak is being cited as the cause of the explosion.

Chinese barbeque restaurant up in flames

"This grand welcome ceremony at the White House today is an honour for 1.4 billion Indians. Can't thank Biden enough for giving me this honour", said Indian PM Modi while addressing the crowd outside White House.

Indian PM Modi thanks US President Joe Biden for the grand welcome

"India and US partnership are crucial for the world especially after the Covid pandemic as a new world order is getting made", said Indian PM Modi while addressing the crowd outside White House. He also added that US-India strategic partnership proves power of democracy.

PM Modi: US-India strategic partnership proves power of democracy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the White House on his maiden state visit on Thursday to hold high-level talks with President Joe Biden, aimed at further boosting the growing Indo-US strategic relations.

Indian PM Modi arrives at White House on maiden state visit

Indian PM Modi received by US President & First Lady at White House

PM Narendra Modi has left New York for Washington, DC. His first engagement will be the Indus-X conference. What else is on his agenda? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: PM Modi leaves for Washington, DC

Today, June 22, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet with US President Joe Biden in private at the White House in Washington, DC, on the second day of his official state visit to the US. Following the bilateral talks, PM Modi will address a joint session of the US Congress.

PM Modi's state visit expected to be a turning point in US-India ties

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