BJP national president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/bjp-president-jp-nadda-must-show-ingenuity-to-make-his-mark-276653">Jagat Prakash Nadda</a> held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Manoj Tiwari</a> following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls.

BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Delhi Assembly election: BJP concedes defeat; congratulates Kejriwal for victory</a>

The meeting lasted for more than two hours and was attended by most of the&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;general secretaries.

According to sources, a number of issues came up during the discussion in the meeting, where the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">BJP </a>leaders pointed out that the party's vote share had increased in the national capital and it put up a brave poll show.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/delhi-elections-arvind-kejriwal-what-other-bjp-nemeses-can-learn-from-aap-triumph-280269">What other BJP nemeses can learn from AAP’s triumph</a>

Nadda earlier also had held a meeting with party general secretaries on Wednesday to discuss the election results.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">BJP </a>had won eight out of 70 assembly seats in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/delhi-elections-arvind-kejriwal-what-other-bjp-nemeses-can-learn-from-aap-triumph-280269">Delhi</a>.

Whereas, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Arvind Kejriwal </a>had bagged the remaining 62 seats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Arvind Kejriwal</a> will take oath for the as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row on February 16 at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Maidan.

BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls. BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting.

BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls. BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting. Delhi Assembly election: BJP concedes defeat; congratulates Kejriwal for victory The meeting lasted for more than two hours and was attended by most of the BJP general secretaries. According to sources, a number of issues came up during the discussion in the meeting, where the BJP leaders pointed out that the party's vote share had increased in the national capital and it put up a brave poll show. Also read: What other BJP nemeses can learn from AAP’s triumph Nadda earlier also had held a meeting with party general secretaries on Wednesday to discuss the election results. BJP had won eight out of 70 assembly seats in Delhi. Whereas, Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal had bagged the remaining 62 seats. Arvind Kejriwal will take oath for the as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row on February 16 at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Maidan.

BJP chief JP Nadda conducts meeting to assess defeat in Delhi Assembly polls

It is a commonly used cliché: History repeats itself. But no other expression can appropriately describe Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) spectacular performance which is reminiscent of 2015 when the party won 67 out of the total 70 seats. In 2014 general elections, AAP was swept away by Narendra&nbsp;Modi wave, but less than a year later, they won Delhi with a historic margin. A similar political event concluded yesterday, when AAP after facing a clear and humiliating rejection in 2019 by the same Delhi voters, was welcomed with astonishing support.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/thank-you-hanuman-ji-why-aap-swept-delhi-280258">Thank you, Hanuman Ji: Why AAP swept Delhi</a>

As India moves towards East with crucial elections in Bihar, Assam and West Bengal, here’s what BJP rivals can learn from AAP in order to counter the might of the saffron party.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-aap-sweeps-national-capital-with-62-seats-kejriwal-to-hold-closed-door-meeting-280140">Delhi Assembly election result: AAP sweeps national capital with 62 seats; Kejriwal to hold closed-door meeting</a>

1. A reliable face 
 
Delhi elections once again reiterate the point that voters’ preferences are smarter now in the state and national polls, and these choices can be completely in contrast with each other. This argument was proved in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand, where BJP’s performance was below par despite an emphatic win in&nbsp;parliamentary polls.&nbsp;

Even though BJP used all its big names which were led by astute election strategist Amit Shah, still it couldn’t answer on who will be the CM if the party is voted to power? And AAP cornered BJP on this issue.&nbsp;

2. A positive campaign

On one hand, BJP was using words like ‘terrorist’ for&nbsp;CM and indulged in fear-mongering, AAP’s campaign was focussed on their work, which was also resembled by their slogan: Acche beete 5 saal, lage raho Kejriwal (Good job in the last five years, keep up Kejriwal).&nbsp;

Kejriwal and his team did not fall into any negative commentary despite provocation from the BJP. AAP countered the hate speeches by highlighting their work in cheapening electricity, water supply, improving Delhi government schools and giving free bus rides to women. A large part of the credit also goes to political strategist Prashant Kishor who ensured that AAP’s campaign remained polite yet enthusiastic and the message was rightly received.&nbsp;

3. Nationalism 
 
Arvind Kejriwal ensured that nationalism is not a sole property of BJP, and thereby, he and AAP appreciated Centre’s actions of revoking of Article 370 and Balakot airstrikes. Chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai, Vande Mataram were heard in AAP rallies and free teerth yatra (pilgrimage) and Kejriwal promoting himself as a Hanuman bhakt gained popular support from the masses.

Delhi elections came at a time when BJP was facing strong nationwide protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, which provides citizenship to non-Muslims from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. BJP unsuccessfully tried to incite voters that AAP is siding with the minority protesters. However, AAP leaders refused to take any stand on the issue, sensing that their inclination to any side will divide the voters. The plan worked as the party got massive support cutting across religious lines.&nbsp;

4. Minority factor

Even though Kejriwal projected himself as a Hanuman bhakt, he and his party did not do any damage to their secular credentials. AAP won all the five minority-dominated constituencies -&nbsp;Mahal, Okhla, Seelampur, Ballimaran and Mustafabad, which earlier largely backed Congress. 
 
5. Focussing on state-related issues

AAP, intelligently, did not let the national issues take the centrestage, be it Ram temple, Article 370 or Citizenship Amendment Bill. Voters got convinced that the sentiments in the aforementioned agenda matter nationally but not in the case of Delhi polls. Team Kejriwal drew a comparison between Delhi government schools and MCD-run schools, where BJP is in power. And nobody could deny that AAP greatly improved the state of the government-run schools.&nbsp;

Mohalla clinics though fell short of AAP’s own target of building 1000 of these, still, the improvement in healthcare cannot be ignored. AAP also reduced greatly reduced tariffs of electricity and water, and their whole campaign revolved around the same issues. AAP compared their governance model with BJP-run Delhi civic bodies’ model, where the party is in power for the last 15 years.&nbsp;

However, BJP opponents should remember that Delhi is a cosmopolitan city and situation here might not fully help their own cause. Also, Narendra Modi’s pan-India popularity is still a force to reckon with. But Delhi once again proves that nobody is invincible in politics.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

It is a commonly used cliché: History repeats itself. But no other expression can appropriately describe Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) spectacular performance which is reminiscent of 2015 when the party won 67 out of the total 70 seats.

It is a commonly used cliché: History repeats itself. But no other expression can appropriately describe Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) spectacular performance which is reminiscent of 2015 when the party won 67 out of the total 70 seats. In 2014 general elections, AAP was swept away by Narendra Modi wave, but less than a year later, they won Delhi with a historic margin. A similar political event concluded yesterday, when AAP after facing a clear and humiliating rejection in 2019 by the same Delhi voters, was welcomed with astonishing support. Also read: Thank you, Hanuman Ji: Why AAP swept Delhi As India moves towards East with crucial elections in Bihar, Assam and West Bengal, here’s what BJP rivals can learn from AAP in order to counter the might of the saffron party. Also read: Delhi Assembly election result: AAP sweeps national capital with 62 seats; Kejriwal to hold closed-door meeting 1. A reliable face Delhi elections once again reiterate the point that voters’ preferences are smarter now in the state and national polls, and these choices can be completely in contrast with each other. This argument was proved in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand, where BJP’s performance was below par despite an emphatic win in parliamentary polls. Even though BJP used all its big names which were led by astute election strategist Amit Shah, still it couldn’t answer on who will be the CM if the party is voted to power? And AAP cornered BJP on this issue. 2. A positive campaign On one hand, BJP was using words like ‘terrorist’ for CM and indulged in fear-mongering, AAP’s campaign was focussed on their work, which was also resembled by their slogan: Acche beete 5 saal, lage raho Kejriwal (Good job in the last five years, keep up Kejriwal). Kejriwal and his team did not fall into any negative commentary despite provocation from the BJP. AAP countered the hate speeches by highlighting their work in cheapening electricity, water supply, improving Delhi government schools and giving free bus rides to women. A large part of the credit also goes to political strategist Prashant Kishor who ensured that AAP’s campaign remained polite yet enthusiastic and the message was rightly received. 3. Nationalism Arvind Kejriwal ensured that nationalism is not a sole property of BJP, and thereby, he and AAP appreciated Centre’s actions of revoking of Article 370 and Balakot airstrikes. Chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai, Vande Mataram were heard in AAP rallies and free teerth yatra (pilgrimage) and Kejriwal promoting himself as a Hanuman bhakt gained popular support from the masses. Delhi elections came at a time when BJP was facing strong nationwide protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, which provides citizenship to non-Muslims from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. BJP unsuccessfully tried to incite voters that AAP is siding with the minority protesters. However, AAP leaders refused to take any stand on the issue, sensing that their inclination to any side will divide the voters. The plan worked as the party got massive support cutting across religious lines. 4. Minority factor Even though Kejriwal projected himself as a Hanuman bhakt, he and his party did not do any damage to their secular credentials. AAP won all the five minority-dominated constituencies - Mahal, Okhla, Seelampur, Ballimaran and Mustafabad, which earlier largely backed Congress. 5. Focussing on state-related issues AAP, intelligently, did not let the national issues take the centrestage, be it Ram temple, Article 370 or Citizenship Amendment Bill. Voters got convinced that the sentiments in the aforementioned agenda matter nationally but not in the case of Delhi polls. Team Kejriwal drew a comparison between Delhi government schools and MCD-run schools, where BJP is in power. And nobody could deny that AAP greatly improved the state of the government-run schools. Mohalla clinics though fell short of AAP’s own target of building 1000 of these, still, the improvement in healthcare cannot be ignored. AAP also reduced greatly reduced tariffs of electricity and water, and their whole campaign revolved around the same issues. AAP compared their governance model with BJP-run Delhi civic bodies’ model, where the party is in power for the last 15 years. However, BJP opponents should remember that Delhi is a cosmopolitan city and situation here might not fully help their own cause. Also, Narendra Modi’s pan-India popularity is still a force to reckon with. But Delhi once again proves that nobody is invincible in politics. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What other BJP nemeses can learn from AAP’s triumph

Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has struck a hat-trick in Delhi. The party secured its return to power by winning 62 out of 70 seats. WION's Palki Sharma decodes what this result means for India.

Gravitas: Decoding the Delhi election results

The Delhi election results kept social media busy on Tuesday. Arvind Kejriwal led Aam Aadmi Party is all set to form the government for the third time in the capital city of India and memes and congratulatory messages for Kejriwal and AAP have been pouring in since Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Interestingly, many resorted to Bollywood in expressing their joy over AAP's victory. Memes galore, social media was flooded with hilarious Bollywood references as people weighed in AAP's sweeping performance at the state election and even compared it to BJP's 7 seat win and Congress's no show.&nbsp;

Here have a look:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Delhi voters to AAP<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiResults</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q7QClTy7IV">pic.twitter.com/Q7QClTy7IV</a>
— SwatKat💃 (@swatic12) <a href="https://twitter.com/swatic12/status/1227181491706265600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congress seeing BJP loosing in Delhi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiResults</a> <a href="https://t.co/BQ8xknkfq0">pic.twitter.com/BQ8xknkfq0</a>
— MoHIT Parashar 🇮🇳 (@IM619_) <a href="https://twitter.com/IM619_/status/1227179935816531970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congress after seeing BJP lose in Delhi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiResults</a> <a href="https://t.co/ean2QgvnI4">pic.twitter.com/ean2QgvnI4</a>
— SwatKat💃 (@swatic12) <a href="https://twitter.com/swatic12/status/1227185714091171840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ye Dilli mera hai aur mein yaha ka Jaikant Shikre <a href="https://t.co/tSHso7R9he">pic.twitter.com/tSHso7R9he</a>
— Nенr_wно™ (@Nehr_who) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nehr_who/status/1227174494772445186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congress MLA candidate trying to find a seat with AAP and BJP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiResults</a> <a href="https://t.co/lbSZ1Vls7T">pic.twitter.com/lbSZ1Vls7T</a>
— The-Lying-Lama 2.0 (@KyaUkhaadLega) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyaUkhaadLega/status/1227096171375497216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Interestingly, AAP's social media too took Bollywood's reference in expressing joy. Sharing a clip of Shah Rukh Khan from the film 'Chak De! India', the party expressed how emotional it was after winning the polls.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Emotions right now... <a href="https://t.co/TXw7nHCFxM">pic.twitter.com/TXw7nHCFxM</a>
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1227159298620264453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

SRK seems to AAP's favourite star and it has in the past used clips from the actor's films for their social media campaigns.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Delhi, we love you❤️ 
 
Our love for you will never fade.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProposeDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProposeDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/dlfHNBnrGx">pic.twitter.com/dlfHNBnrGx</a>
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1226009779501326336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Chak De Dilli! <a href="https://t.co/p38mgM76nF">pic.twitter.com/p38mgM76nF</a>
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1225272374087450624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

AAP currently is leading with 63 seats while BJP has got 7 seats in the Delhi voters.&nbsp;

The Delhi election results kept social media busy on Tuesday. Arvind Kejriwal led Aam Aadmi Party is all set to form the government for the third time in the capital city of India and memes and congratulatory messages for Kejriwal and AAP have been pouring in since Tuesday afternoon.

The Delhi election results kept social media busy on Tuesday. Arvind Kejriwal led Aam Aadmi Party is all set to form the government for the third time in the capital city of India and memes and congratulatory messages for Kejriwal and AAP have been pouring in since Tuesday afternoon. Interestingly, many resorted to Bollywood in expressing their joy over AAP's victory. Memes galore, social media was flooded with hilarious Bollywood references as people weighed in AAP's sweeping performance at the state election and even compared it to BJP's 7 seat win and Congress's no show. Here have a look: Delhi voters to AAP#DelhiResults pic.twitter.com/Q7QClTy7IV — SwatKat💃 (@swatic12) February 11, 2020 × Congress seeing BJP loosing in Delhi #DelhiResults pic.twitter.com/BQ8xknkfq0 — MoHIT Parashar 🇮🇳 (@IM619_) February 11, 2020 × Congress after seeing BJP lose in Delhi #DelhiResults pic.twitter.com/ean2QgvnI4 — SwatKat💃 (@swatic12) February 11, 2020 × Ye Dilli mera hai aur mein yaha ka Jaikant Shikre pic.twitter.com/tSHso7R9he — Nенr_wно™ (@Nehr_who) February 11, 2020 × Congress MLA candidate trying to find a seat with AAP and BJP #DelhiResults pic.twitter.com/lbSZ1Vls7T — The-Lying-Lama 2.0 (@KyaUkhaadLega) February 11, 2020 × Interestingly, AAP's social media too took Bollywood's reference in expressing joy. Sharing a clip of Shah Rukh Khan from the film 'Chak De! India', the party expressed how emotional it was after winning the polls. Emotions right now... pic.twitter.com/TXw7nHCFxM — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) February 11, 2020 × SRK seems to AAP's favourite star and it has in the past used clips from the actor's films for their social media campaigns. Delhi, we love you❤️ Our love for you will never fade.#ProposeDay pic.twitter.com/dlfHNBnrGx — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) February 8, 2020 × Chak De Dilli! pic.twitter.com/p38mgM76nF — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) February 6, 2020 × AAP currently is leading with 63 seats while BJP has got 7 seats in the Delhi voters.

AAP, Twitter use Bollywood references to express joy over Delhi election results 

On a flat electoral pitch which offered no turn, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) lived up to its performance and raced to a comfortable victory in Delhi. The results should ring alarm bells for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which decided to stump the incumbent AAP government through its high octane nationalism pitch. Once again, the BJP became the victim of its over-dependence on national issues in a state election where people were more concerned about the pressing problems being faced by them. 
 
The BJP should realise that one size does not fit all the time. What may work on a national scale does not necessarily mean that it will also work in a state. The party will need to differentiate between the two and accordingly plan its strategy. Like in a cricket Test match, political parties have enough time to revisit their strategy after the first or second round during national elections. But the state election does not offer such an opportunity which is akin to a 50-50 match.

Unlike the BJP, the AAP decided to bat straight. It kept its campaign simple by seeking votes on the work done in the last five years. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s appeal to people not to vote for his party if they thought that the AAP had failed to meet their expectations resonated well with the electorate. The seven-year-old startup party was smart as it either ducked or left the bouncers and outswingers by the BJP over Shaheen Bagh protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act and refused to be drawn into any controversy by popping it back on the principal opposition party which it claimed is entrusted with the law and order situation in the national capital.

The BJP was also guilty of launching a vicious and personal attack on Kejriwal over the Shaheen Bagh protests and was penalised by the Election Commission which barred some of its leaders, including a union minister, from campaigning. This certainly did not go down well with the masses which punished the BJP. In the past, Prime Minister Narendra Modi benefited largely when the opposition parties, particularly the Congress party, launched a vitriolic attack on him.

What surprises the most is that the BJP offered a free run to the AAP. Not only did the party announce the candidates very late, as against the AAP and the Congress, but it also released the party manifesto just a few days before the voting. Rather than making its manifesto the preamble, the party resorted to negative campaigning. It should have stuck to its manifesto and taken on the AAP on the strength of it. But none of the BJP leaders stuck to the script and buried it completely. Its failure to project chief ministerial candidate was another sore point which was well encashed by the AAP.

In the end, it was a victory of welfare politics over nationalism. At a time, when the people have been hit hard by the economic slump and are staring at an uncertain future, freebies are an instant hit. Though big-ticket discounts do not augur well for the economy of the country or a state, people often fall prey to such tactics for short-term gains. With Delhi in its kitty again, one hopes the AAP government will work to fight the twin menace of poor transport and rising pollution which is choking the national capital. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On a flat electoral pitch which offered no turn, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) lived up to its performance and raced to a comfortable victory in Delhi. The results should ring alarm bells for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which decided to stump the incumbent AAP government through its high octane nationalism pitch.

On a flat electoral pitch which offered no turn, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) lived up to its performance and raced to a comfortable victory in Delhi. The results should ring alarm bells for the country’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which decided to stump the incumbent AAP government through its high octane nationalism pitch. Once again, the BJP became the victim of its over-dependence on national issues in a state election where people were more concerned about the pressing problems being faced by them. The BJP should realise that one size does not fit all the time. What may work on a national scale does not necessarily mean that it will also work in a state. The party will need to differentiate between the two and accordingly plan its strategy. Like in a cricket Test match, political parties have enough time to revisit their strategy after the first or second round during national elections. But the state election does not offer such an opportunity which is akin to a 50-50 match. Unlike the BJP, the AAP decided to bat straight. It kept its campaign simple by seeking votes on the work done in the last five years. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s appeal to people not to vote for his party if they thought that the AAP had failed to meet their expectations resonated well with the electorate. The seven-year-old startup party was smart as it either ducked or left the bouncers and outswingers by the BJP over Shaheen Bagh protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act and refused to be drawn into any controversy by popping it back on the principal opposition party which it claimed is entrusted with the law and order situation in the national capital. The BJP was also guilty of launching a vicious and personal attack on Kejriwal over the Shaheen Bagh protests and was penalised by the Election Commission which barred some of its leaders, including a union minister, from campaigning. This certainly did not go down well with the masses which punished the BJP. In the past, Prime Minister Narendra Modi benefited largely when the opposition parties, particularly the Congress party, launched a vitriolic attack on him. What surprises the most is that the BJP offered a free run to the AAP. Not only did the party announce the candidates very late, as against the AAP and the Congress, but it also released the party manifesto just a few days before the voting. Rather than making its manifesto the preamble, the party resorted to negative campaigning. It should have stuck to its manifesto and taken on the AAP on the strength of it. But none of the BJP leaders stuck to the script and buried it completely. Its failure to project chief ministerial candidate was another sore point which was well encashed by the AAP. In the end, it was a victory of welfare politics over nationalism. At a time, when the people have been hit hard by the economic slump and are staring at an uncertain future, freebies are an instant hit. Though big-ticket discounts do not augur well for the economy of the country or a state, people often fall prey to such tactics for short-term gains. With Delhi in its kitty again, one hopes the AAP government will work to fight the twin menace of poor transport and rising pollution which is choking the national capital. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

AAP sweeps Delhi again - a victory of welfare politics over nationalism

The exit polls on Saturday predicted that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party will return to power with an impressive victory in the Delhi elections with the BJP expected to improve its numbers but finishing a distant second.

The polls predicted that AAP will win a two-thirds majority with some giving it a three-fourth majority in the 70-member assembly.

They predicted that Congress will continue its dismal show in the national capital. The Ipsos exit poll predicted 47 seats for AAP and 23 for BJP.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-elections-2020-voter-turnout-nearly-over-4270-per-cent-till-4pm-279488">Delhi Assembly elections 2020 - Polling ends, turnout at 54.65% till 6pm</a>

The C Voter poll predicted that AAP will get 49-63 seats and the BJP 5-19 seats.

According to the poll, the Congress could win 0-4 seats. The Bharatvarsh-Cicero exit poll predicted that AAP would win 54 seats, BJP 15 seats and Congress one seat.

The Jan Ki Baat exit poll gave 48-61 seats to AAP, 9-21 seats to BJP and 0-1 seat for the Congress.

The AAP had registered a landslide victory in 2015 elections getting 67 of 70 seats. The BJP had won three seats while Congress had failed to open its account.&nbsp;

The exit polls on Saturday predicted that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party will return to power with an impressive victory in the Delhi elections with the BJP expected to improve its numbers but finishing a distant second.

The exit polls on Saturday predicted that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party will return to power with an impressive victory in the Delhi elections with the BJP expected to improve its numbers but finishing a distant second. The polls predicted that AAP will win a two-thirds majority with some giving it a three-fourth majority in the 70-member assembly. They predicted that Congress will continue its dismal show in the national capital. The Ipsos exit poll predicted 47 seats for AAP and 23 for BJP. Also read: Delhi Assembly elections 2020 - Polling ends, turnout at 54.65% till 6pm The C Voter poll predicted that AAP will get 49-63 seats and the BJP 5-19 seats. According to the poll, the Congress could win 0-4 seats. The Bharatvarsh-Cicero exit poll predicted that AAP would win 54 seats, BJP 15 seats and Congress one seat. The Jan Ki Baat exit poll gave 48-61 seats to AAP, 9-21 seats to BJP and 0-1 seat for the Congress. The AAP had registered a landslide victory in 2015 elections getting 67 of 70 seats. The BJP had won three seats while Congress had failed to open its account.

Exit polls predict two-thirds majority for AAP in Delhi assembly

Delhi election: CM Kejriwal, President Kovind and others cast votes

Attacking the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-writes-to-election-commission-urges-ban-on-amit-shah-from-campaigning-in-delhi-polls-277342">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/current-delhi-government-will-continue-to-put-obstacles-in-welfare-work-pm-modi-sounds-bugle-for-delhi-polls-278364">Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday said Delhi needs a government that will not resort to appeasement but supports the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-third-firing-incident-takes-place-at-jamia-milia-islamia-278235">Citizenship Amendment Act</a>, abolition of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-irreversible-centre-tells-sc-276097">Article 370</a> and issues of national security. 
 
Addressing an election rally in Dwarka three days before the February 8 assembly elections, the prime minister said the national capital also needs a government that will give direction and not resort to blame games. 
 
The prime minister accused the AAP dispensation of not implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the national capital and asked if the AAP government's 'mohalla clinics' will work if Delhiites fall sick outside the city.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/current-delhi-government-will-continue-to-put-obstacles-in-welfare-work-pm-modi-sounds-bugle-for-delhi-polls-278364">Current Delhi government will continue to put obstacles in welfare work: PM Modi sounds bugle for Delhi polls</a> 
 
Modi, who addressed a rally in east Delhi's Karkardooma locality on Monday, said the people of Delhi have seen how the AAP government practises the politics of hate. 
 
The people of Delhi say the country has changed, and now is the time for Delhi's transformation, the prime minister told the gathering. 
 
"Delhi does not need a government which gives an opportunity to enemies to attack us," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-2020-remove-anurag-thakur-parvesh-verma-as-bjp-star-campaigners-orders-election-commission-277283">Delhi Assembly Election 2020: Remove Anurag Thakur and Parvesh Verma as BJP star campaigners, orders Election Commission</a> 
 
The Centre, he added, opened more bank accounts for the poor than the population of US, and built more houses than the population of Sri Lanka. 
 
Modi said opposition parties are spreading lies and rumours about the Citizenship (Amendment) Act but people of Delhi understand this. 
 
Slamming the AAP and Congress, he said both parties cry for Batla House terrorists, put security forces in the dock and instigate people but can't develop the national capital. 
 
Appealing to people to vote for the BJP, he asked them to punish those who insult armed forces. 
 
The national capital goes to the polls on February 8 and the results will be declared on February 11.

Attacking the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said Delhi needs a government that will not resort to appeasement but supports the Citizenship Amendment Act, abolition of Article 370 and issues of national security.

Attacking the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said Delhi needs a government that will not resort to appeasement but supports the Citizenship Amendment Act, abolition of Article 370 and issues of national security. Addressing an election rally in Dwarka three days before the February 8 assembly elections, the prime minister said the national capital also needs a government that will give direction and not resort to blame games. The prime minister accused the AAP dispensation of not implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the national capital and asked if the AAP government's 'mohalla clinics' will work if Delhiites fall sick outside the city. Also read: Current Delhi government will continue to put obstacles in welfare work: PM Modi sounds bugle for Delhi polls Modi, who addressed a rally in east Delhi's Karkardooma locality on Monday, said the people of Delhi have seen how the AAP government practises the politics of hate. The people of Delhi say the country has changed, and now is the time for Delhi's transformation, the prime minister told the gathering. "Delhi does not need a government which gives an opportunity to enemies to attack us," he said. Also read: Delhi Assembly Election 2020: Remove Anurag Thakur and Parvesh Verma as BJP star campaigners, orders Election Commission The Centre, he added, opened more bank accounts for the poor than the population of US, and built more houses than the population of Sri Lanka. Modi said opposition parties are spreading lies and rumours about the Citizenship (Amendment) Act but people of Delhi understand this. Slamming the AAP and Congress, he said both parties cry for Batla House terrorists, put security forces in the dock and instigate people but can't develop the national capital. Appealing to people to vote for the BJP, he asked them to punish those who insult armed forces. The national capital goes to the polls on February 8 and the results will be declared on February 11.

Delhi needs government that will not resort to appeasement but supports Citizenship Amendment Act: Narendra Modi

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday wrote to the Election Commission urging the poll-body to ban Union Home Minister Amit Shah from campaigning for 48 hours in the Delhi assembly elections.

"This is in reference to violation of Model Code of Conduct by Amit Shah and other BJP leaders/MPs by posting false, fabricated and concocted videos in order to malign the image of Aam Aadmi Party, Delhi Govt schools, their teachers and students and play fraud against people of Delhi," a memorandum from the AAP reads.

It further states, "In the last five years, the AAP-led Government in Delhi has made revolutionary changes in the education system of Delhi which has been recognised worldwide."

"It is submitted, Amit Shah, his MPs of Delhi and other leaders in their public utterances made false claims that 'nothing has been done by the Aam Aadmi Party government for the betterment of government schools in Delhi'. In response to this, Arvind Kejriwal invited Shah to visit Delhi govt schools with him. But he, along with his MPs in a well-planned manner, with ulterior motive to spread false propaganda against Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and AAP, manufactured and published false and fabricated videos on Twitter and other media platforms," the memorandum said.

It further said, "BJP sitting MPs Gautam Gambhir, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans on the direction of Amit Shah made false and fabricated videos to put the wrong picture of Delhi government schools before the people of Delhi."

"We would urge the Election Commission to direct Amit Shah and above mentioned BJP MPs and leaders to remove these videos from Twitter. Delhi police to register FIR against the above-mentioned persons for posting false, fabricated and concocted videos. Impose ban on Amit Shah and above-mentioned MPs for violating Model Code of Conduct," the memorandum added.&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday wrote to the Election Commission urging the poll-body to ban Union Home Minister Amit Shah from campaigning for 48 hours in the Delhi assembly elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday wrote to the Election Commission urging the poll-body to ban Union Home Minister Amit Shah from campaigning for 48 hours in the Delhi assembly elections. "This is in reference to violation of Model Code of Conduct by Amit Shah and other BJP leaders/MPs by posting false, fabricated and concocted videos in order to malign the image of Aam Aadmi Party, Delhi Govt schools, their teachers and students and play fraud against people of Delhi," a memorandum from the AAP reads. It further states, "In the last five years, the AAP-led Government in Delhi has made revolutionary changes in the education system of Delhi which has been recognised worldwide." "It is submitted, Amit Shah, his MPs of Delhi and other leaders in their public utterances made false claims that 'nothing has been done by the Aam Aadmi Party government for the betterment of government schools in Delhi'. In response to this, Arvind Kejriwal invited Shah to visit Delhi govt schools with him. But he, along with his MPs in a well-planned manner, with ulterior motive to spread false propaganda against Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and AAP, manufactured and published false and fabricated videos on Twitter and other media platforms," the memorandum said. It further said, "BJP sitting MPs Gautam Gambhir, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans on the direction of Amit Shah made false and fabricated videos to put the wrong picture of Delhi government schools before the people of Delhi." "We would urge the Election Commission to direct Amit Shah and above mentioned BJP MPs and leaders to remove these videos from Twitter. Delhi police to register FIR against the above-mentioned persons for posting false, fabricated and concocted videos. Impose ban on Amit Shah and above-mentioned MPs for violating Model Code of Conduct," the memorandum added.

AAP writes to Election Commission, urges ban on Amit Shah from campaigning in Delhi polls

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a&nbsp;jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years".&nbsp;

"Keep going Kejriwal," Shah took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party chief. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
He further attacked Kejriwal saying, "You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn't bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn't implement it here."

"If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would definitely get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten," Shah also said during the rally ahead of assembly polls in the city.

The Union Home Minister further urged the people to give Prime Minister Narendra Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital city.

Over 600 candidates including Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, BJP's Vijender Gupta and Congress's Arvinder Singh Lovely are in the fray for next month's Delhi Assembly polls.&nbsp;

Delhi goes to polls on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.&nbsp;

In the battle for supremacy for the 70 seats, the AAP has been wooing the voters through a host of populist schemes.

Kejriwal has guaranteed free bus ride for students, deployment of mohalla marshals for women security, 24-hour supply of power and clean piped water to every household and reducing pollution to one-third.

He said schemes like free 200 units of electricity, 20,000 litres of water and healthcare services will continue for the next five years if his party is voted to power again and also promised basic infrastructure in unauthorised colonies as well as "a pukka house for all slum dwellers". 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years". "Keep going Kejriwal," Shah took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party chief. He further attacked Kejriwal saying, "You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn't bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn't implement it here." "If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would definitely get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten," Shah also said during the rally ahead of assembly polls in the city. The Union Home Minister further urged the people to give Prime Minister Narendra Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital city. Over 600 candidates including Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, BJP's Vijender Gupta and Congress's Arvinder Singh Lovely are in the fray for next month's Delhi Assembly polls. Delhi goes to polls on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11. In the battle for supremacy for the 70 seats, the AAP has been wooing the voters through a host of populist schemes. Kejriwal has guaranteed free bus ride for students, deployment of mohalla marshals for women security, 24-hour supply of power and clean piped water to every household and reducing pollution to one-third. He said schemes like free 200 units of electricity, 20,000 litres of water and healthcare services will continue for the next five years if his party is voted to power again and also promised basic infrastructure in unauthorised colonies as well as "a pukka house for all slum dwellers".

Give PM Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital: Amit Shah

Congress, on Monday, called for&nbsp;the opposition parties for a&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-look-up-you-will-find-cctvs-on-every-lane-sisodia-to-shah-272797">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, Bahujan Samaj Party and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trinamool-congress-supremo-mamata-banerjee-to-boycott-opposition-meet-in-delhi-273257">Trinamool Congress</a> are not likely to attend.&nbsp;

Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-playing-political-games-over-citizenship-amendment-act-says-prime-minister-narendra-modi-273683">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-jamia-students-need-our-support-says-cong-leader-shashi-tharoor-273821">Jawaharlal Nehru University</a> (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm. 
 
Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting.

Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-mayawati-she-must-visit-rajasthan-to-meet-kota-victimss-families-272134">Mayawati</a> on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day.

"As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet.

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3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1216558471656529920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-in-delhi-to-discuss-cabinet-expansion-with-congress-leaders-273822">Congress</a> will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added.

Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-priyanka-instigated-riots-by-supporting-anti-caa-drive-home-minister-amit-shah-272323">unconstitutional law</a>." 
 
In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/declaration-of-amaravathi-as-capital-was-unconstitutional-ysrcp-mla-to-president-kovind-272733">Ram Nath Kovind</a> and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend.

Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend. Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm. Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting. Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief Mayawati on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day. "As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet. 3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3 — Mayawati (@Mayawati) January 13, 2020 × "Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by Congress will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added. Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and unconstitutional law." In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President Ram Nath Kovind and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Citizenship Act Protest: AAP, BSP not to attend today's opposition meeting called by Congress

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion-of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360">Aam Aadmi Party</a> (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220">Arvind Kejriwal</a> will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jharkhands-new-chief-minister-hemant-soren-269825">Chief Minister of Jharkhand</a> in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm.

Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-mamata-leads-another-anti-caa-march-tells-students-to-continue-their-protest-270362">Mamata Banerjee</a>, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony.

The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm. Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony. The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal not to attend Hemant Soren's swearing in ceremony

Ahead of Assembly polls due early next year in Delhi, Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220">Arvind Kejriwal </a>on Saturday announced that political strategist Prashant Kishor's Indian PAC will manage the poll campaign of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the national capital.

"Happy to share that IndianPAC is coming on board with us," Kejriwal tweeted.

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Happy to share that <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianPAC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indianpac</a> is coming on-board with us. Welcome aboard!
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1205707741689286656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Kejriwal led his party (AAP) to a historic win by securing 67 seats in the 70-member Delhi Assembly during 2015 polls.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jdu-has-nothing-to-do-with-prashant-kishors-activities-in-wb-nitish-kumar-225557">Kishor </a>has earlier successfully managed the election campaigns of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in 2015 and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh in 2017. He also led YSRCP to a landslide victory in Andhra Pradesh during the 2019 Assembly polls.

However, the political strategist's association with the Congress for the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections could not ensure a win for the party which faced a disastrous defeat with the BJP winning a three-fourth majority.

Kishor, who is currently working with Mamata Banerjee and TMC in West Bengal, has also reportedly worked with Shiv Sena in the recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly polls.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Assembly polls due early next year in Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday announced that political strategist Prashant Kishor's Indian PAC will manage the poll campaign of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the national capital.

Ahead of Assembly polls due early next year in Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday announced that political strategist Prashant Kishor's Indian PAC will manage the poll campaign of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the national capital. "Happy to share that IndianPAC is coming on board with us," Kejriwal tweeted. Happy to share that @indianpac is coming on-board with us. Welcome aboard! — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) December 14, 2019 × Kejriwal led his party (AAP) to a historic win by securing 67 seats in the 70-member Delhi Assembly during 2015 polls. Kishor has earlier successfully managed the election campaigns of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in 2015 and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh in 2017. He also led YSRCP to a landslide victory in Andhra Pradesh during the 2019 Assembly polls. However, the political strategist's association with the Congress for the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections could not ensure a win for the party which faced a disastrous defeat with the BJP winning a three-fourth majority. Kishor, who is currently working with Mamata Banerjee and TMC in West Bengal, has also reportedly worked with Shiv Sena in the recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly polls.

Arvind Kejriwal ropes in election strategist Prashant Kishor for Delhi election 2020

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-parents-plea-seeking-to-expedite-execution-of-convicts-to-be-heard-by-new-judge-264367">Nirbhaya`s mother</a>, Asha Devi said, "I welcome Delhi government`s decision to recommend rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. I hope the accused will be hanged to death soon. I know that the process is still going on but I hope that the accused persons will be hanged to death soon. I believe that there are a few loopholes in our judicial system."

"The Supreme Court twice pronounced the sentence to death for the accused in this case but it`s been 2.5 years now and that order has not been followed," she added.

The Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case.

Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter.

The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government.

Asha further condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-fast-track-court-to-deal-with-vets-rape-case-cm-promises-stringent-punishment-to-culprits-265584">Hyderabad veterinarian rape</a> and murder case and stated that because the accused people are still `alive`, it has conveyed a wrong message in the society.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Rape &amp; murder of 27-year-old sends shockwaves

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"Rape and murder of the woman veterinarian was barbaric. Unlike us who had to fight for seven years, she should get justice soon. The administration should reflect on why such incidents re-occur. The accused persons in both the rape cases should be hanged to death," said Asha.

She further asserted that rape incidents occur almost every day but nobody is concerned about such cases.

"We cannot stop such incidents until the accused people are given stringent punishment. It`s time to act now," said Asha.

In December 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons and thrown out on the road along with her male friend in the national capital. She succumbed to injuries a few days later.&nbsp;

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case.

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. Nirbhaya`s mother, Asha Devi said, "I welcome Delhi government`s decision to recommend rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. I hope the accused will be hanged to death soon. I know that the process is still going on but I hope that the accused persons will be hanged to death soon. I believe that there are a few loopholes in our judicial system." "The Supreme Court twice pronounced the sentence to death for the accused in this case but it`s been 2.5 years now and that order has not been followed," she added. The Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case. Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter. The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government. Asha further condemned the Hyderabad veterinarian rape and murder case and stated that because the accused people are still `alive`, it has conveyed a wrong message in the society. Also Watch: Rape & murder of 27-year-old sends shockwaves × "Rape and murder of the woman veterinarian was barbaric. Unlike us who had to fight for seven years, she should get justice soon. The administration should reflect on why such incidents re-occur. The accused persons in both the rape cases should be hanged to death," said Asha. She further asserted that rape incidents occur almost every day but nobody is concerned about such cases. "We cannot stop such incidents until the accused people are given stringent punishment. It`s time to act now," said Asha. In December 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons and thrown out on the road along with her male friend in the national capital. She succumbed to injuries a few days later.

Nirbhaya's mother welcomes Delhi government's decision to recommend rejection of convict's mercy petition

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning.

Notably, for the first time in this season, the Air Quality Index (AQI) docked as high as 625 at 10 in the morning despite light drizzles in the early hours.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", and 401-500 "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thick-smog-continues-to-affect-visibility-in-delhi-air-quality-index-remains-in-severe-259435">severe</a>".

Above 500 is the "severe-plus emergency" category. In Dhirpur, the AQI was 509, while in Delhi University area it was 591. In Delhi's famous Chandni Chowk area, the AQI was recorded at 432 while in Lodhi road it was 537.

Apart from the capital, Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad and Noida are also reeling under the wave of severe air pollution. In both places, the AQI has crossed the mark of 600.

People residing in these areas complained of eye irritation and suffocation due to deteriorating air quality."We are athletes and have most of the events in the winter seasons.

This thick smog is affecting our health making it difficult to breathe in the poisonous air. The government must do something about it," Prashant Shukla, a local from Ghaziabad, told ANI.

Another local from Ghaziabad, Mukul Sharma, also narrated his ordeal and said, "I am coughing too much these days. I do not know how to safeguard myself from increasing air pollution. The government must tighten the noose around stubble burning."Also, in the Gautam Budh Nagar area, the Noida Authority conducted checking at various construction sites and arrested 27 people for flouting the construction ban.

"The construction is banned in Noida from November 1 to 5. We have conducted checking at sector 75, 35 and 72. We have arrested 27 people for flouting the ban. We will continue to conduct checks at construction sites," said an official from Noida Authority.

To combat the menace of air pollution, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019.

He has repeatedly said that the smog from the nearby states caused by the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region.&nbsp;

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning.

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning. Notably, for the first time in this season, the Air Quality Index (AQI) docked as high as 625 at 10 in the morning despite light drizzles in the early hours. An AQI between 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", and 401-500 "severe". Above 500 is the "severe-plus emergency" category. In Dhirpur, the AQI was 509, while in Delhi University area it was 591. In Delhi's famous Chandni Chowk area, the AQI was recorded at 432 while in Lodhi road it was 537. Apart from the capital, Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad and Noida are also reeling under the wave of severe air pollution. In both places, the AQI has crossed the mark of 600. People residing in these areas complained of eye irritation and suffocation due to deteriorating air quality."We are athletes and have most of the events in the winter seasons. This thick smog is affecting our health making it difficult to breathe in the poisonous air. The government must do something about it," Prashant Shukla, a local from Ghaziabad, told ANI. Another local from Ghaziabad, Mukul Sharma, also narrated his ordeal and said, "I am coughing too much these days. I do not know how to safeguard myself from increasing air pollution. The government must tighten the noose around stubble burning."Also, in the Gautam Budh Nagar area, the Noida Authority conducted checking at various construction sites and arrested 27 people for flouting the construction ban. "The construction is banned in Noida from November 1 to 5. We have conducted checking at sector 75, 35 and 72. We have arrested 27 people for flouting the ban. We will continue to conduct checks at construction sites," said an official from Noida Authority. To combat the menace of air pollution, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019. He has repeatedly said that the smog from the nearby states caused by the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region.

Delhi-NCR chokes on smog, visibility drops significantly as AQI crosses 600

Delhi witnesses public health emergency as air quality dips to 'severe'

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards.

"From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here.

The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses".

"Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added.

Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward.

The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday. The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards. "From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here. The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses". "Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added. Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward. The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Marshals to be deployed on Delhi buses from tomorrow to ensure women safety: Arvind Kejriwal

Parlad Singh Sawhney on Sunday expressed happiness over joining Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and said that he switched to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led side because the Congress was promoting people with wrong intentions.

"I have some drawbacks in the Congress party. They are promoting people with wrong intentions. AAP is the best party in Delhi. They are also helping people who need medical aid," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi.

68-year-old Sawhney is a former four-term MLA from Chandni Chowk constituency of the national capital.

Sawhney began his political career by contesting the civic polls from Mori Gate in the year 1977 in which he was defeated.&nbsp;

He, however, managed to win from the same ward in 1983. His son Purnadeep Singh Sawhney contested the 2017 municipal polls from Chandni Chowk as a Congress candidate and came second to BJP.&nbsp;

Parlad Singh Sawhney on Sunday expressed happiness over joining Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and said that he switched to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led side because the Congress was promoting people with wrong intentions.

Parlad Singh Sawhney on Sunday expressed happiness over joining Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and said that he switched to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led side because the Congress was promoting people with wrong intentions. "I have some drawbacks in the Congress party. They are promoting people with wrong intentions. AAP is the best party in Delhi. They are also helping people who need medical aid," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi. 68-year-old Sawhney is a former four-term MLA from Chandni Chowk constituency of the national capital. Sawhney began his political career by contesting the civic polls from Mori Gate in the year 1977 in which he was defeated. He, however, managed to win from the same ward in 1983. His son Purnadeep Singh Sawhney contested the 2017 municipal polls from Chandni Chowk as a Congress candidate and came second to BJP.

Congress promoting people with wrong intentions: Parlad Singh Sawhney after joining AAP

Former Jharkhand Congress president Ajoy Kumar joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the presence of senior party leader and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia here on Thursday.

After being inducted into the party, Kumar said AAP is the answer to today's politics.

"Common people like us should come forward and cooperate in honest politics and politics of good governance. AAP is the answer to today's politics. I thank Manish Ji, Arvind Ji (Kejriwal), Saurabh Ji (Bharadwaj) and Durgesh Ji (Pathak) for inducting me into the party," said Kumar, a former 1986-batch IPS officer.

Lauding AAP for its policies, Kumar said that people from Jharkhand and Bihar, who are residing in Delhi, are getting benefited.

"You are all aware of AAP's policies on health, education, water, and electricity. If you see Jharkhand and Bihar, the poor, middle-class people who are in Delhi and those who are doing their job here are getting benefited. Parents are now sending their children to government schools instead of private schools," the 57-year-old leader said.

Asked about his role in AAP in the forthcoming Jharkhand Assembly polls, Kumar remarked, "I have joined today. I will have to wait for the party to assign any responsibility to me."

In August, Kumar had resigned from the post of Jharkhand Congress president.

He was elected to the Lok Sabha in July 2011 in a mid-term election on a ticket of Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik).

He joined Congress in August 2014 and was appointed the party's state unit president in November 2017.

Former Jharkhand Congress president Ajoy Kumar joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the presence of senior party leader and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia here on Thursday.

Former Jharkhand Congress president Ajoy Kumar joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the presence of senior party leader and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia here on Thursday. After being inducted into the party, Kumar said AAP is the answer to today's politics. "Common people like us should come forward and cooperate in honest politics and politics of good governance. AAP is the answer to today's politics. I thank Manish Ji, Arvind Ji (Kejriwal), Saurabh Ji (Bharadwaj) and Durgesh Ji (Pathak) for inducting me into the party," said Kumar, a former 1986-batch IPS officer. Lauding AAP for its policies, Kumar said that people from Jharkhand and Bihar, who are residing in Delhi, are getting benefited. "You are all aware of AAP's policies on health, education, water, and electricity. If you see Jharkhand and Bihar, the poor, middle-class people who are in Delhi and those who are doing their job here are getting benefited. Parents are now sending their children to government schools instead of private schools," the 57-year-old leader said. Asked about his role in AAP in the forthcoming Jharkhand Assembly polls, Kumar remarked, "I have joined today. I will have to wait for the party to assign any responsibility to me." In August, Kumar had resigned from the post of Jharkhand Congress president. He was elected to the Lok Sabha in July 2011 in a mid-term election on a ticket of Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik). He joined Congress in August 2014 and was appointed the party's state unit president in November 2017.

Former Jharkhand Congress president Ajoy Kumar joins Aam Aadmi Party

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra.

"We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011. Now, BJP is doing those alternative politics. Wherever you go, you will see that people got benefitted due to schemes started by the BJP," she told ANI.

Richa further said that "AAP has become 'Khaas' (special) party."

Kapil, who was by disqualified by Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel under the anti-defection law, also joined the BJP.

He formally joined the BJP in the presence of BJP MP and Delhi state unit president Manoj Tiwari and party MP Vijay Goel.

"Now, Delhi needs a government which can work with the Central government. I think that the national capital needs a government which can work under the guidance of PM Modi," Kapil told ANI.

On August 2, Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel disqualified rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kapil Mishra, who had campaigned for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Lok Sabha elections, under the anti-defection law on grounds of defection.

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra. "We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011.

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra. "We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011. Now, BJP is doing those alternative politics. Wherever you go, you will see that people got benefitted due to schemes started by the BJP," she told ANI. Richa further said that "AAP has become 'Khaas' (special) party." Kapil, who was by disqualified by Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel under the anti-defection law, also joined the BJP. He formally joined the BJP in the presence of BJP MP and Delhi state unit president Manoj Tiwari and party MP Vijay Goel. "Now, Delhi needs a government which can work with the Central government. I think that the national capital needs a government which can work under the guidance of PM Modi," Kapil told ANI. On August 2, Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel disqualified rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kapil Mishra, who had campaigned for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Lok Sabha elections, under the anti-defection law on grounds of defection.

Former Aam Aadmi Party's minister Kapil Mishra, women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joins BJP

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh has given a Zero Hour notice in the Rajya Sabha for Monday on the issue of "Centre using government agencies to target opponents".

Since recently, the issue of Centre using government agencies against the opposition leaders have been raised by various parties on several occasions.

In February, the opposition parties including AAP, Trinamool Congres, Telugu Desam Party, and Congress had jointly opposed the move to arrest then Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav had also supported West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on her "Save the Constitution" dharna for nearly twelve hours amid the ongoing faceoff between the Kolkata Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

On June 21, Singh had given a Zero Hour notice in the Hosue over increasing crime rates in Delhi.

The Zero Hour denotes the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory prior ten days notice.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh has given a Zero Hour notice in the Rajya Sabha for Monday on the issue of "Centre using government agencies to target opponents".

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh has given a Zero Hour notice in the Rajya Sabha for Monday on the issue of "Centre using government agencies to target opponents". Since recently, the issue of Centre using government agencies against the opposition leaders have been raised by various parties on several occasions. In February, the opposition parties including AAP, Trinamool Congres, Telugu Desam Party, and Congress had jointly opposed the move to arrest then Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav had also supported West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on her "Save the Constitution" dharna for nearly twelve hours amid the ongoing faceoff between the Kolkata Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). On June 21, Singh had given a Zero Hour notice in the Hosue over increasing crime rates in Delhi. The Zero Hour denotes the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory prior ten days notice.

AAP MP gives Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over 'Centre using agencies to target opponents'

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it.

Addressing the party's Delhi unit leaders on the second day of the state working committee's meeting, he asked them to work together for the Delhi elections, due early next year.

In reference to the 2015 Assembly elections where the Aam Aadmi Party had won 67 out of 70 seats, Nadda claimed that the people of Delhi have now started realising what the leaders have actually done.

"They (AAP) have become the laughing stock. Delhi, being the national capital, needs leadership which has a serious vision for the city," he said.

Nadda claimed that people are not happy with the Arvind Kejriwal-government in Delhi and exuded confidence that the BJP will win the Delhi Assembly elections. 
"I am fully confident that we will succeed in Delhi," the BJP working president said.

In his 30-minute speech, Nadda listed the public-welfare schemes of the Modi government and congratulated BJP's Delhi unit for its performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in which party won all the seven seats in the national capital.

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari claimed that the AAP has "failed to address acute water crisis" in the city and his party unit has prepared a detailed plan to address the problems the national capital faces.

Senior party leaders, including Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, V K Malhotra, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans and Kuljeet Chahal were present at the meeting.&nbsp;

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it.

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it. Addressing the party's Delhi unit leaders on the second day of the state working committee's meeting, he asked them to work together for the Delhi elections, due early next year. In reference to the 2015 Assembly elections where the Aam Aadmi Party had won 67 out of 70 seats, Nadda claimed that the people of Delhi have now started realising what the leaders have actually done. "They (AAP) have become the laughing stock. Delhi, being the national capital, needs leadership which has a serious vision for the city," he said. Nadda claimed that people are not happy with the Arvind Kejriwal-government in Delhi and exuded confidence that the BJP will win the Delhi Assembly elections. "I am fully confident that we will succeed in Delhi," the BJP working president said. In his 30-minute speech, Nadda listed the public-welfare schemes of the Modi government and congratulated BJP's Delhi unit for its performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in which party won all the seven seats in the national capital. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari claimed that the AAP has "failed to address acute water crisis" in the city and his party unit has prepared a detailed plan to address the problems the national capital faces. Senior party leaders, including Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, V K Malhotra, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans and Kuljeet Chahal were present at the meeting.

Aam Aadmi Party has become a laughing stock: JP Nadda

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government.

"I have congratulated him and wished him luck for the next five years. I told him that it is important for Centre and state government to work together for the development of Delhi. I have assured him that Delhi government will work with them and hopes that we will get support from Centre too," Kejriwal said.

The Delhi chief minister briefly discussed Ayushman Bharat scheme with Modi. "Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme," he tweeted after the meeting.

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Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme. <a href="https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6">https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1141961167700578304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Water harvesting-related issues were also discussed between the two. "Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support," Kejriwal said in another tweet. 
&nbsp;

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Met Sh <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji n congratulated him for LS victory 
 
1. Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support 
 
2. Invited PM to visit a Mohalla clinic n Del govt school
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1141958983286050816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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AAP chief also invited the Prime Minister to visit Mohalla clinic and a Delhi government school.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government.

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government. "I have congratulated him and wished him luck for the next five years. I told him that it is important for Centre and state government to work together for the development of Delhi. I have assured him that Delhi government will work with them and hopes that we will get support from Centre too," Kejriwal said. The Delhi chief minister briefly discussed Ayushman Bharat scheme with Modi. "Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme," he tweeted after the meeting. Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme. https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6 — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 21, 2019 × Water harvesting-related issues were also discussed between the two. "Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support," Kejriwal said in another tweet. Met Sh @narendramodi ji n congratulated him for LS victory 1. Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support 2. Invited PM to visit a Mohalla clinic n Del govt school — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 21, 2019 × AAP chief also invited the Prime Minister to visit Mohalla clinic and a Delhi government school. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal meets PM Narendra Modi, says Delhi government and Centre must work together

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, actor Sunny Deol and Aam Aadmi Party's lone MP Bhagwant Mann were among the leaders who took oath <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-along-with-members-take-oath-as-first-session-of-17th-lok-sabha-begins-227853">as members of 17th Lok Sabha</a> on Tuesday.

There was loud applause when BJP MP Om Birla, who is tipped to be the&nbsp;NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha Speaker's post, entered the House and later when he got up to take oath.

IUDF leader Badruddin Ajmal and former Union ministers Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Preneet Kaur and Shashi Tharoor were also administered oath on the second day of the maiden session.

Dressed in jeans, white shirt and blazer, Deol took oath in English amid cheers and slogan of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' from the treasury benches.

There was a slip of tongue by the BJP MP from Gurdaspur when he said "withhold the sovereignty and integrity of the country" instead of "uphold the sovereignty and integrity of the country", but he quickly rectified it.

There was some banter between Mann and members of treasury benches after he ended his oath with the slogan 'Inqalab Zindabad'.

Badal concluded his oath with Sikh religious chant of 'Wahe Guruji ka Khalsa, Wahe Guruji de Fateh".

Tharoor was absent on Monday when other members from Kerala, including Rahul Gandhi, took oath.

Kaur, who is the wife of Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, had a bandage on her forehead.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram was sitting in the Speaker's Gallery as his son Karti Chidambaram was to take oath.

The maiden session of 17th Lok Sabha commenced on Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari among the prominent members who took oath on the first day.&nbsp;

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, actor Sunny Deol and Aam Aadmi Party's lone MP Bhagwant Mann were among the leaders who took oath as members of 17th Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, actor Sunny Deol and Aam Aadmi Party's lone MP Bhagwant Mann were among the leaders who took oath as members of 17th Lok Sabha on Tuesday. There was loud applause when BJP MP Om Birla, who is tipped to be the NDA's nominee for Lok Sabha Speaker's post, entered the House and later when he got up to take oath. IUDF leader Badruddin Ajmal and former Union ministers Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Preneet Kaur and Shashi Tharoor were also administered oath on the second day of the maiden session. Dressed in jeans, white shirt and blazer, Deol took oath in English amid cheers and slogan of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' from the treasury benches. There was a slip of tongue by the BJP MP from Gurdaspur when he said "withhold the sovereignty and integrity of the country" instead of "uphold the sovereignty and integrity of the country", but he quickly rectified it. There was some banter between Mann and members of treasury benches after he ended his oath with the slogan 'Inqalab Zindabad'. Badal concluded his oath with Sikh religious chant of 'Wahe Guruji ka Khalsa, Wahe Guruji de Fateh". Tharoor was absent on Monday when other members from Kerala, including Rahul Gandhi, took oath. Kaur, who is the wife of Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, had a bandage on her forehead. Former Union minister P Chidambaram was sitting in the Speaker's Gallery as his son Karti Chidambaram was to take oath. The maiden session of 17th Lok Sabha commenced on Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari among the prominent members who took oath on the first day.

Sukhbir Singh Badal, Sunny Deol among new members administered oath on second day in Lok Sabha

The Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday claimed that over 90 per cent people have favoured free rides for women in Delhi Metro and buses.

According to senior AAP leader Gopal Rai, the finding&nbsp;was based on a survey conducted by his party legislators, municipal councillors and women wing.

He added that more than 71,000 people participated in the survey which went on for ten days.

"We met all the sections of society. The party held 1,120 meetings and found that out of 71,572 people, as many as 64,972 were in favour of the free rides for women in metros and buses," news agency PTI quoted Rai.

The finding&nbsp;will now be submitted to the Delhi chief minister. Arvind Kejriwal had on June 3 announced his government's decision to provide&nbsp;free travel to&nbsp;women in DTC&nbsp;buses and Metro trains. 
 
Meanwhile, former Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), E Sreedharan, has opposed the AAP government's proposed free travel scheme for women in Delhi Metro trains. In a letter to the Prime Minister, he urged him not to agree to the proposal as it would set "alarming precedence". &nbsp; 
 
"Now, if ladies are to be given free travel concession in Delhi Metro, it would set alarming precedence to all other metros in the country. The argument of the Delhi government that the revenue losses would be reimbursed to the DMRC is a poor solace," the former DMRC managing director said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday claimed that over 90 per cent people have favoured free rides for women in Delhi Metro and buses. According to senior AAP leader Gopal Rai, the finding was based on a survey conducted by his party legislators, municipal councillors and women wing.

The Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday claimed that over 90 per cent people have favoured free rides for women in Delhi Metro and buses. According to senior AAP leader Gopal Rai, the finding was based on a survey conducted by his party legislators, municipal councillors and women wing. He added that more than 71,000 people participated in the survey which went on for ten days. "We met all the sections of society. The party held 1,120 meetings and found that out of 71,572 people, as many as 64,972 were in favour of the free rides for women in metros and buses," news agency PTI quoted Rai. The finding will now be submitted to the Delhi chief minister. Arvind Kejriwal had on June 3 announced his government's decision to provide free travel to women in DTC buses and Metro trains. Meanwhile, former Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), E Sreedharan, has opposed the AAP government's proposed free travel scheme for women in Delhi Metro trains. In a letter to the Prime Minister, he urged him not to agree to the proposal as it would set "alarming precedence". "Now, if ladies are to be given free travel concession in Delhi Metro, it would set alarming precedence to all other metros in the country. The argument of the Delhi government that the revenue losses would be reimbursed to the DMRC is a poor solace," the former DMRC managing director said. (With inputs from agencies)

90% people favour free rides for women in metros and buses, claims AAP

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Friday urged Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to urgently look into the national capital's law and order situation as five people were shot dead in the "last 24 hours".

The Delhi Police comes under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

"Five murders in Delhi in the last 24 hours is an extremely serious situation. I appeal to @LtGovDelhi &amp; @HMOIndia to urgently look into the law and order situation of the national capital," Kejriwal tweeted.

Five people were killed in four different incidents since Thursday night.&nbsp;

In the Bhalswa Dairy area, a 42-year-old property dealer and a 17-year-old boy were shot dead in separate incidents.

Unidentified assailants shot dead a 35-year-old man in west Delhi's Vikaspuri area and two men were shot dead in Nand Nagari.&nbsp;

Reacting to Kejriwal's tweet, the Delhi Police said all the murders were due to personal enmity.

"The murders have all been confirmed to be personal enmity related. Accused previously known to victim &amp; already arrested in some cases. Overall heinous crime in 2019 is down by 10.5% Crime by use of firearms is down by 5.65% Crime against women is down by 11.5% @ArvindKejriwal (sic)," the Delhi Police tweeted. =

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Friday urged Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to urgently look into the national capital's law and order situation as five people were shot dead in the "last 24 hours".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Friday urged Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to urgently look into the national capital's law and order situation as five people were shot dead in the "last 24 hours". The Delhi Police comes under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. "Five murders in Delhi in the last 24 hours is an extremely serious situation. I appeal to @LtGovDelhi & @HMOIndia to urgently look into the law and order situation of the national capital," Kejriwal tweeted. Five people were killed in four different incidents since Thursday night. In the Bhalswa Dairy area, a 42-year-old property dealer and a 17-year-old boy were shot dead in separate incidents. Unidentified assailants shot dead a 35-year-old man in west Delhi's Vikaspuri area and two men were shot dead in Nand Nagari. Reacting to Kejriwal's tweet, the Delhi Police said all the murders were due to personal enmity. "The murders have all been confirmed to be personal enmity related. Accused previously known to victim & already arrested in some cases. Overall heinous crime in 2019 is down by 10.5% Crime by use of firearms is down by 5.65% Crime against women is down by 11.5% @ArvindKejriwal (sic)," the Delhi Police tweeted. =

5 killings in last 24 hours: Kejriwal asks LG, Home Minister to look into Delhi's law and order situation

The biggest achievement of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-grants-bail-to-aap-leaders-atishi-others-in-defamation-case-225184">Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)&nbsp;the government </a>in the field of governance is the "successful" implementation of outcome budget, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said Friday.

The outcome budget, introduced in 2017-18 as a novel idea of the ruling AAP, has helped in removing bottlenecks to improve the delivery of services and goods to people of Delhi, Sisodia said.&nbsp;

The outcome budget tracks performance of 567 schemes and programmes of the Delhi government through nearly 2,000 quantifiable indicators.&nbsp;

"I consider outcome budget as the biggest achievement of our government in past 4.5 years in the field of governance," the deputy chief minister said.

He was speaking at a national conference on outcome budgeting organised by Dialogue and Development Commission of Delhi. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sisodia also released the outcome budget of the Delhi government for 2019-20.

He said outcome budget is the force behind big ticket reforms by the Delhi government in power and water supply, education and health services and the doorstep delivery services.

Sisodia asserted that in the next couple of decades, outcome budgeting will emerge as a baseline for reforms in the governance area.

The biggest achievement of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) the government in the field of governance is the "successful" implementation of outcome budget, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said Friday.

The biggest achievement of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) the government in the field of governance is the "successful" implementation of outcome budget, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said Friday. The outcome budget, introduced in 2017-18 as a novel idea of the ruling AAP, has helped in removing bottlenecks to improve the delivery of services and goods to people of Delhi, Sisodia said. The outcome budget tracks performance of 567 schemes and programmes of the Delhi government through nearly 2,000 quantifiable indicators. "I consider outcome budget as the biggest achievement of our government in past 4.5 years in the field of governance," the deputy chief minister said. He was speaking at a national conference on outcome budgeting organised by Dialogue and Development Commission of Delhi. Sisodia also released the outcome budget of the Delhi government for 2019-20. He said outcome budget is the force behind big ticket reforms by the Delhi government in power and water supply, education and health services and the doorstep delivery services. Sisodia asserted that in the next couple of decades, outcome budgeting will emerge as a baseline for reforms in the governance area.

Outcome budget biggest achievement of AAP government: Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia

A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city.

AAP's Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar Gupta, MLA Manoj Kumar were also granted relief on a personal bond of Rs 10,000 each after the three appeared before the court.

However, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal failed to appear before the court Friday. The court directed him to appear on July 16.

BJP leader Rajeev Babbar, who moved the petition on behalf of the party's Delhi unit, sought proceedings against them for "harming" the reputation of the BJP by blaming it for the deletion of the names of "voters" from electoral rolls here.

He claimed the AAP leaders had, during a press conference held in December last year, alleged that on the directions of the BJP names of 30 lakh voters from Bania, Poorvanchali and the Muslim community had been deleted by the Election Commission.

A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city.

A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city. AAP's Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar Gupta, MLA Manoj Kumar were also granted relief on a personal bond of Rs 10,000 each after the three appeared before the court. However, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal failed to appear before the court Friday. The court directed him to appear on July 16. BJP leader Rajeev Babbar, who moved the petition on behalf of the party's Delhi unit, sought proceedings against them for "harming" the reputation of the BJP by blaming it for the deletion of the names of "voters" from electoral rolls here. He claimed the AAP leaders had, during a press conference held in December last year, alleged that on the directions of the BJP names of 30 lakh voters from Bania, Poorvanchali and the Muslim community had been deleted by the Election Commission.

Delhi court grants bail to Atishi, other AAP leaders in defamation case

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit.

She lashed out at her party after she was again removed from AAP's MLA WhatsApp group, which includes Kejriwal.

Without naming him, Lamba said that at a time when the party came third in the CM's constituency, lost in all 70 assembly segments and lost its security deposit, shouldn't the person, who sat in a closed room and took all decisions on alliance and candidates, quit.

"Kejriwal ji, you are yourself admitting that you made very big mistakes due to which the party fared badly in the Lok Sabha polls. Without looking at the mistakes made by the party you have asked us to apologise to people. We should introspect on the mistakes," she said.

AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj said that the party did not want to comment on her.

"She is an attention-seeker. Some MLAs had raised a point that some people are unhappy about a few local works in their area. To that the chief minister had asked them to meet such people with humility, assure them of speedy work and apologise for inconvenience," he said.

Sharing screenshots of the WhatsApp group on Twitter, which purportedly shows that she was removed by AAP's North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, Lamba asked why was she being held responsible for the party's crushing loss in the Lok Sabha elections.

Pandey did not respond on the matter.

"I have always been telling the party what you (Kejriwal) are telling them now. I am sometimes added to the group, sometimes removed. It would have been better if a meeting was held to introspect, look at the shortcomings and move ahead," she said.

Lamba claimed that she had raised questions about the party performance in the Lok Sabha polls which did not go down well with the AAP.

The MLA from Chandni Chowk also claimed that some legislators had told her that her tweet praising Naveen Patnaik, for winning the fifth term as chief minister of Odisha, was not appreciated by party leaders.

The AAP suffered a crushing defeat in the polls and lost on all seven seats in Delhi with a margin of lakhs of votes.

This is the second time that Lamba has been dropped from the group. She was earlier dropped in December last year when she raised objection over the party's resolution to revoke Rajiv Gandhi's Bharat Ratna.

However, she was added before poll campaigning and was expected to campaign for the party. But Lamba refused and even refrained from participating in Kejriwal's roadshow after she was asked to walk behind his car during the show.

In April, Lamba engaged in a bitter Twitter spat with Bharadwaj, who had taunted her to resign from the party.

Following the spat, she addressed a large crowd outside Jama Masjid and said the party was repeatedly demanding her resignation.

She had alleged that the party leadership was "weakening" her and said she was being accused of attempting to switch over to the Congress. 
Before joining the AAP, Lamba was part of the Congress women's wing.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit. She lashed out at her party after she was again removed from AAP's MLA WhatsApp group, which includes Kejriwal. Without naming him, Lamba said that at a time when the party came third in the CM's constituency, lost in all 70 assembly segments and lost its security deposit, shouldn't the person, who sat in a closed room and took all decisions on alliance and candidates, quit. "Kejriwal ji, you are yourself admitting that you made very big mistakes due to which the party fared badly in the Lok Sabha polls. Without looking at the mistakes made by the party you have asked us to apologise to people. We should introspect on the mistakes," she said. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj said that the party did not want to comment on her. "She is an attention-seeker. Some MLAs had raised a point that some people are unhappy about a few local works in their area. To that the chief minister had asked them to meet such people with humility, assure them of speedy work and apologise for inconvenience," he said. Sharing screenshots of the WhatsApp group on Twitter, which purportedly shows that she was removed by AAP's North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, Lamba asked why was she being held responsible for the party's crushing loss in the Lok Sabha elections. Pandey did not respond on the matter. "I have always been telling the party what you (Kejriwal) are telling them now. I am sometimes added to the group, sometimes removed. It would have been better if a meeting was held to introspect, look at the shortcomings and move ahead," she said. Lamba claimed that she had raised questions about the party performance in the Lok Sabha polls which did not go down well with the AAP. The MLA from Chandni Chowk also claimed that some legislators had told her that her tweet praising Naveen Patnaik, for winning the fifth term as chief minister of Odisha, was not appreciated by party leaders. The AAP suffered a crushing defeat in the polls and lost on all seven seats in Delhi with a margin of lakhs of votes. This is the second time that Lamba has been dropped from the group. She was earlier dropped in December last year when she raised objection over the party's resolution to revoke Rajiv Gandhi's Bharat Ratna. However, she was added before poll campaigning and was expected to campaign for the party. But Lamba refused and even refrained from participating in Kejriwal's roadshow after she was asked to walk behind his car during the show. In April, Lamba engaged in a bitter Twitter spat with Bharadwaj, who had taunted her to resign from the party. Following the spat, she addressed a large crowd outside Jama Masjid and said the party was repeatedly demanding her resignation. She had alleged that the party leadership was "weakening" her and said she was being accused of attempting to switch over to the Congress. Before joining the AAP, Lamba was part of the Congress women's wing.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba seeks accountability from Kejriwal in Lok Sabha polls

Aam Aadmi Party's Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan and his supporters were booked for allegedly assaulting and threatening a man in Jamia Nagar in New Delhi, police said Monday.

A complaint was received from a man alleging that AAP supporters assaulted him because he was not supporting Khan and the party, a senior police officer said.

The man told police that Khan was present at the time of the incident, he said.

The incident took place Sunday evening after the polling concluded in the city, the officer said.

A case has been registered and police is probing the allegations, he said.&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party's Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan and his supporters were booked for allegedly assaulting and threatening a man in Jamia Nagar in New Delhi, police said Monday.

Aam Aadmi Party's Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan and his supporters were booked for allegedly assaulting and threatening a man in Jamia Nagar in New Delhi, police said Monday. A complaint was received from a man alleging that AAP supporters assaulted him because he was not supporting Khan and the party, a senior police officer said. The man told police that Khan was present at the time of the incident, he said. The incident took place Sunday evening after the polling concluded in the city, the officer said. A case has been registered and police is probing the allegations, he said.

AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan, supporters booked for 'assaulting' man

"I condemn the allegations. I have never discussed anything related to my candidature with my son," Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar said on Saturday after his son Uday Jakhar levelled charges of "cash-for-ticket" against him.

"He stays at his maternal parents` home from the time of his birth and I divorced my wife in 2009. She stayed with me only for 6-7 months. His custody was granted to my wife after the divorce. I condemn the allegations. I have never discussed with my son anything about my candidature. I speak to him very rarely," Balbir told media persons, a day before New Delhi is slated to vote in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

AAP candidate's comments came after his son accused him of giving AAP chief and Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Cabinet Minister Gopal Rai Rs 6 crore in exchange of the West Delhi ticket.

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Balbir Singh Jakhar, AAP candidate from West Delhi: He stays at his maternal parents' home from the time of his birth and I divorced my wife in 2009. She stayed with me for only 6-7 months. His custody was granted to my wife after the divorce. <a href="https://t.co/hHbhXq0Gxr">https://t.co/hHbhXq0Gxr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1127157894477168646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Six crore rupees were given to Arvind Kejriwal and Gopal Rai by my father in exchange of the West Delhi ticket. He joined politics in January and prior to that, he had no experience in the political arena. I have credible evidence that he gave 6 crores to fight from this ticket," Uday said.

Claiming that his father tried to bail out former Congress leader and 1984 anti-Sikh riots accused Sajjan Kumar, he said, "He refused to give me money for my education and said that he would use it for his political endeavours. He was ready to use that money to give bail to Yashpal Singh and Sajjan Kumar, accused and convicts in 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He was ready to fight a case for them. He personally told me this."

Delhi, where 7 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, will go to poll on May 12.&nbsp;

"I condemn the allegations. I have never discussed anything related to my candidature with my son," Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar said on Saturday after his son Uday Jakhar levelled charges of "cash-for-ticket" against him.

"I condemn the allegations. I have never discussed anything related to my candidature with my son," Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar said on Saturday after his son Uday Jakhar levelled charges of "cash-for-ticket" against him. "He stays at his maternal parents` home from the time of his birth and I divorced my wife in 2009. She stayed with me only for 6-7 months. His custody was granted to my wife after the divorce. I condemn the allegations. I have never discussed with my son anything about my candidature. I speak to him very rarely," Balbir told media persons, a day before New Delhi is slated to vote in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. AAP candidate's comments came after his son accused him of giving AAP chief and Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Cabinet Minister Gopal Rai Rs 6 crore in exchange of the West Delhi ticket. Balbir Singh Jakhar, AAP candidate from West Delhi: He stays at his maternal parents' home from the time of his birth and I divorced my wife in 2009. She stayed with me for only 6-7 months. His custody was granted to my wife after the divorce. https://t.co/hHbhXq0Gxr — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2019 × "Six crore rupees were given to Arvind Kejriwal and Gopal Rai by my father in exchange of the West Delhi ticket. He joined politics in January and prior to that, he had no experience in the political arena. I have credible evidence that he gave 6 crores to fight from this ticket," Uday said. Claiming that his father tried to bail out former Congress leader and 1984 anti-Sikh riots accused Sajjan Kumar, he said, "He refused to give me money for my education and said that he would use it for his political endeavours. He was ready to use that money to give bail to Yashpal Singh and Sajjan Kumar, accused and convicts in 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He was ready to fight a case for them. He personally told me this." Delhi, where 7 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, will go to poll on May 12.

AAP candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar refutes 'cash-for-ticket' allegations by son

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