Former Union Minister and Delhi state unit chief Ajay Maken has expressed complete disagreement with the idea that Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) should have an electoral tie-up to keep the BJP away. He also said that a fragmented Opposition will not work against the BJP and Congress will have to regain its space as the principal party opposed to BJP as in the past fragmented Opposition government have not survived for long.

In the interview with WION's Kartikeya Sharma, Maken also reached out his colleagues in the party. Congress is holding a grand iftaar for its potential political allies in Delhi and has chosen not to invite AAP. 
&nbsp 
WION: How do you evaluate AAP's performance in Delhi?

Ajay Maken: AAP has slipped in Delhi. Their vote percentage has gone down consistently. From the municipal elections to Rajouri Garden by-polls, AAP's vote share has decreased. Rajouri Garden was a seat which AAP had won by a huge margin. AAP was third and came behind the Congress. This happened because they have not been able to fulfill promises.

WION: Do you feel that Delhi has suffered because of AAP's national ambitions?

Ajay Maken: Delhi has suffered simply because AAP does not know how to govern. Since coming to power they have been trying to create an artificial confrontation with the BJP for political reasons. One cannot rule by confrontation. Delhi is a Union Territory and one needs to build consensus with stakeholders. Being a bureaucrat, Kejriwal should have known this but again AAP does not know what governance is. We never compromised the interest of the people.

WION: What is your view on 'one-seat-one-candidate' proposed arrangement to challenge BJP?

Ajay Maken: My opinion is that a strong Congress is required at the Centre to counter BJP-RSS. One-seat-one-candidate is a good concept, but fragmented Opposition does not work. We have seen that in the past too. You need a strong party in the Opposition as there is a political life beyond elections too.

WION: Should this proposal apply on Delhi as well?

Ajay Maken: No, it should not. Even the chief minister of Punjab is opposed to this idea to stop the BJP. AAP is losing ground and when they are being rejected by people why should we supply them political oxygen? AAP is an opportunist party. It is not a secular party. Kejriwal is ideologically hollow. He was the one who tied up with Baba Ramdev and Kiran Bedi. If he gets concessions from BJP, he will side with them.

WION: Are you saying that alliances should be state specific?

Ajay Maken: Alliances have to be crafted on state to state basis after consulting the state leadership.

WION: What is the Congress roadmap of recovery under you?

Ajay Maken: Congress needs understanding within the party than help from outside. We have conducted surveys and found that people very fondly remember 15 years of Sheila Dixit's regime. We will win elections on our own. We cannot undermine the strength of the Congress workers in a state. In the past two decades Congress was able to defeat BJP thrice. In order to come back we don't need assistance. We have bench strength in leaders like Sheila Dixit, Mahabal Mishra, JP Agarwal and Sandeep Dixit. If we work together, we will defeat both AAP and BJP.

The DPCC chief lashes out at Aam Aadmi Party and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, says Congress has to capability to win Delhi assembly election on its own.

Former Union Minister and Delhi state unit chief Ajay Maken has expressed complete disagreement with the idea that Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) should have an electoral tie-up to keep the BJP away. He also said that a fragmented Opposition will not work against the BJP and Congress will have to regain its space as the principal party opposed to BJP as in the past fragmented Opposition government have not survived for long. In the interview with WION's Kartikeya Sharma, Maken also reached out his colleagues in the party. Congress is holding a grand iftaar for its potential political allies in Delhi and has chosen not to invite AAP. WION: How do you evaluate AAP's performance in Delhi? Ajay Maken: AAP has slipped in Delhi. Their vote percentage has gone down consistently. From the municipal elections to Rajouri Garden by-polls, AAP's vote share has decreased. Rajouri Garden was a seat which AAP had won by a huge margin. AAP was third and came behind the Congress. This happened because they have not been able to fulfill promises. WION: Do you feel that Delhi has suffered because of AAP's national ambitions? Ajay Maken: Delhi has suffered simply because AAP does not know how to govern. Since coming to power they have been trying to create an artificial confrontation with the BJP for political reasons. One cannot rule by confrontation. Delhi is a Union Territory and one needs to build consensus with stakeholders. Being a bureaucrat, Kejriwal should have known this but again AAP does not know what governance is. We never compromised the interest of the people. WION: What is your view on 'one-seat-one-candidate' proposed arrangement to challenge BJP? Ajay Maken: My opinion is that a strong Congress is required at the Centre to counter BJP-RSS. One-seat-one-candidate is a good concept, but fragmented Opposition does not work. We have seen that in the past too. You need a strong party in the Opposition as there is a political life beyond elections too. WION: Should this proposal apply on Delhi as well? Ajay Maken: No, it should not. Even the chief minister of Punjab is opposed to this idea to stop the BJP. AAP is losing ground and when they are being rejected by people why should we supply them political oxygen? AAP is an opportunist party. It is not a secular party. Kejriwal is ideologically hollow. He was the one who tied up with Baba Ramdev and Kiran Bedi. If he gets concessions from BJP, he will side with them. WION: Are you saying that alliances should be state specific? Ajay Maken: Alliances have to be crafted on state to state basis after consulting the state leadership. WION: What is the Congress roadmap of recovery under you? Ajay Maken: Congress needs understanding within the party than help from outside. We have conducted surveys and found that people very fondly remember 15 years of Sheila Dixit's regime. We will win elections on our own. We cannot undermine the strength of the Congress workers in a state. In the past two decades Congress was able to defeat BJP thrice. In order to come back we don't need assistance. We have bench strength in leaders like Sheila Dixit, Mahabal Mishra, JP Agarwal and Sandeep Dixit. If we work together, we will defeat both AAP and BJP.

No tie-up with Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi: Congress leader Ajay Maken to WION

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office along with his cabinet colleagues, took to micro-blogging site Twitter to announce his second night stay there.

"Our 2nd nite at LG House. We r here because. We love Delhi and we care for Delhi. We have worked very hard for Delhi. We want Delhi to further improve. We feel shattered because many great initiatives getting stuck. Let's improve our beloved Delhi, LG Sir. N lets do it together," he tweeted.

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Our 2nd nite at LG House. We r here becoz 
 
We luv Del n we care for Del 
 
We hv worked v hard for Del 
 
We want Del to further improve 
 
We feel shattered becoz many 
great initiatives getting stuck 
 
Lets improve our beloved Del, LG Sir. N lets do it togethr
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1006556547793633280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kejriwal, accompanied by his deputy Manish Sisodia, AAP ministers Satyendar Jain and Gopal Rai had gone to meet Lt Governor Anil Baijal on the issue of IAS officers "strike" and doorstep ration delivery scheme last evening.

After the meeting ended around 6 pm yesterday, the chief minister said that he and his cabinet colleagues were going to stay in the waiting room of the L-G office as their demands were refused by Baijal.

Kejriwal has sought from Baijal his direction to IAS officers to end their strike, punishment to officers who struck work and approval to his government's doorstep ration delivery scheme.

After the meeting ended around 6 pm yesterday, the chief minister said that he and his cabinet colleagues were going to stay in the waiting room of the L-G office

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office along with his cabinet colleagues, took to micro-blogging site Twitter to announce his second night stay there. "Our 2nd nite at LG House. We r here because. We love Delhi and we care for Delhi. We have worked very hard for Delhi. We want Delhi to further improve. We feel shattered because many great initiatives getting stuck. Let's improve our beloved Delhi, LG Sir. N lets do it together," he tweeted. Our 2nd nite at LG House. We r here becoz We luv Del n we care for Del We hv worked v hard for Del We want Del to further improve We feel shattered becoz many great initiatives getting stuck Lets improve our beloved Del, LG Sir. N lets do it togethr — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 12, 2018 × Kejriwal, accompanied by his deputy Manish Sisodia, AAP ministers Satyendar Jain and Gopal Rai had gone to meet Lt Governor Anil Baijal on the issue of IAS officers "strike" and doorstep ration delivery scheme last evening. After the meeting ended around 6 pm yesterday, the chief minister said that he and his cabinet colleagues were going to stay in the waiting room of the L-G office as their demands were refused by Baijal. Kejriwal has sought from Baijal his direction to IAS officers to end their strike, punishment to officers who struck work and approval to his government's doorstep ration delivery scheme.

Kejriwal and colleagues spend second night at L-G's office

AAP leaders and workers camped outside the chief minister's residence here today in support of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues who have been staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office and asserted that they would continue the fight for the rights of the people without any compromise.

Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence.&nbsp;

This is a fight for the rights of the people of Delhi, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh told reporters outside the chief minister's residence.

"At the instance of Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor has crippled Delhi government. We will not keep quiet now and fight till the last," Singh asserted.

Flanked by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi Marlena, the party MP said that they were prepared for a long drawn battle over issues of full statehood, IAS officers' strike and the schemes of government including doorstep delivery of ration, allegedly curtailed by the LG.

"Modi is behind the crippling of Delhi government's functioning using the Lt Governor as a pawn."

Singh said that he was in touch with opposition leaders such as D Raja of the CPI and Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) over the developments in Delhi.

Singh also attacked former Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit over the full statehood issue.

"She ruled for ten years when Congress was at the Centre. Why did the full statehood was promised in their manifesto if they did not want it," he said

Bhardwaj said that the IAS officers of Delhi were on strike although they denied in a press statement yesterday.

Citing rules, he said that even "slowing down" work and not attending meetings called by ministers was a form of strike.

"Over a dozen show-cause notices and memos have been sent to the officers, but the situation is the same. They are shying away from openly admitting their strike because they will lose their jobs since rules do not permit it," he said.

Marlena said that government works including those related with education and pollution were hampered due to the strike.

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".&nbsp;

Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence

AAP leaders and workers camped outside the chief minister's residence here today in support of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues who have been staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office and asserted that they would continue the fight for the rights of the people without any compromise. Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence. This is a fight for the rights of the people of Delhi, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh told reporters outside the chief minister's residence. "At the instance of Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor has crippled Delhi government. We will not keep quiet now and fight till the last," Singh asserted. Flanked by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi Marlena, the party MP said that they were prepared for a long drawn battle over issues of full statehood, IAS officers' strike and the schemes of government including doorstep delivery of ration, allegedly curtailed by the LG. "Modi is behind the crippling of Delhi government's functioning using the Lt Governor as a pawn." Singh said that he was in touch with opposition leaders such as D Raja of the CPI and Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) over the developments in Delhi. Singh also attacked former Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit over the full statehood issue. "She ruled for ten years when Congress was at the Centre. Why did the full statehood was promised in their manifesto if they did not want it," he said Bhardwaj said that the IAS officers of Delhi were on strike although they denied in a press statement yesterday. Citing rules, he said that even "slowing down" work and not attending meetings called by ministers was a form of strike. "Over a dozen show-cause notices and memos have been sent to the officers, but the situation is the same. They are shying away from openly admitting their strike because they will lose their jobs since rules do not permit it," he said. Marlena said that government works including those related with education and pollution were hampered due to the strike. Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".

AAP leaders, workers camp outside Kejriwal's residence

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands.

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations.

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and have since stayed on.

After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests".

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I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1006475254623973376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said.

The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy".&nbsp;

"Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter.&nbsp;

However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met.&nbsp;

"Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said.

The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast".&nbsp;

Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at&nbsp;11 am.

Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said.

"My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at&nbsp;6.27 am&nbsp;from the L-G's office.&nbsp;

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area.

In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected.

According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering.&nbsp;

Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20, it said.

In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since&nbsp;February 23&nbsp;to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said.

The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities."

Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason".

A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately.

In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if

necessary, ESMA may be invoked".

However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected.

"Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted.

"Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in.

The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike', action against those who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands. The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations. Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and have since stayed on. After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests". I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 12, 2018 × It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said. The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy". "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter. However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met. "Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said. The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter. Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast". Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at 11 am. Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said. "My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at 6.27 am from the L-G's office. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area. In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected. According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering. Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of February 19-20, it said. In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since February 23 to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands. "Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said. The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities." Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason". A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately. In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if necessary, ESMA may be invoked". However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected. "Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted. "Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in. The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of February 19-20.

'Dharna without reason' says L-G's office as Kejriwal continues sit-in

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and since then, they stayed out there.

Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)."

Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter.

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike' and action against officers who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy". Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months". Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and since then, they stayed out there. Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)." Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal's sit-in a mockery of democracy: Manoj Tiwari

Delhi MLA Kapil Mishra is all set to file a petition against CM Arvind Kejriwal for having less than ten&nbsp;per cent attendance in the Delhi assembly.

The High Court is likely to hear the petition on Tuesday.

Kapil Mishra had said earlier, "CM's attendance is less than ten per cent&nbsp;in assembly and he totally missed special sessions for full statehood and sealing. He was there for two hours. It's an insult to the votes of people&nbsp;who have voted for him. If he isn't attending assembly his salary should be cut".

He also said that the Delhi High Court should give direction to the CM that he should be attending Delhi assembly session. It should also give direction to Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the Assembly to ensure that the chief minister is attending the session, he said.

Currently an MLA from the Karawal Nagar constituency, Mishra was removed from the position of Water Resource Minister in the AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) government.

Since then, he has been alleging more instances of corruption in AAP government under Arvind Kejriwal.

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CM's attendance is less than 10% in assembly & he totally missed special sessions for full statehood&sealing. He was there for 2 hrs. It's an insult to votes people of Delhi have given . If he isn't attending assembly his salary should be cut: Kapil Mishra, Delhi MLA on Delhi CM <a href="https://t.co/ZBNkj8PqGC">pic.twitter.com/ZBNkj8PqGC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006042875761647616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Kapil Mishra had said earlier, 'CM's attendance is less than ten per cent in assembly and he totally missed special sessions for full statehood and sealing. He was there for two hours. It's an insult to the votes of people who have voted for him. If he isn't attending assembly his salary should be cut'

Delhi MLA Kapil Mishra is all set to file a petition against CM Arvind Kejriwal for having less than ten per cent attendance in the Delhi assembly. The High Court is likely to hear the petition on Tuesday. Kapil Mishra had said earlier, "CM's attendance is less than ten per cent in assembly and he totally missed special sessions for full statehood and sealing. He was there for two hours. It's an insult to the votes of people who have voted for him. If he isn't attending assembly his salary should be cut". He also said that the Delhi High Court should give direction to the CM that he should be attending Delhi assembly session. It should also give direction to Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the Assembly to ensure that the chief minister is attending the session, he said. Currently an MLA from the Karawal Nagar constituency, Mishra was removed from the position of Water Resource Minister in the AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) government. Since then, he has been alleging more instances of corruption in AAP government under Arvind Kejriwal. CM's attendance is less than 10% in assembly & he totally missed special sessions for full statehood&sealing. He was there for 2 hrs. It's an insult to votes people of Delhi have given . If he isn't attending assembly his salary should be cut: Kapil Mishra, Delhi MLA on Delhi CM pic.twitter.com/ZBNkj8PqGC — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 ×

Delhi High Court allows Kapil Mishra to file petition against Arvind Kejriwal for having low attendance in Delhi assembly

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal pushed for complete statehood for the national capital today. Earlier in the day, Kejriwal noted that if before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections Delhi is granted the status of complete statehood, he will ensure that each and every electoral vote from the national capital goes to the Bhartiya Janata Party.&nbsp;

"I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each and every vote from Delhi goes in your favour," Kejriwal noted at the state assembly today.

He further stated that Delhi will campaign for the BJP but the demand for complete statehood is not granted, "Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi'," Kejriwal further added. According to reports, Vidhan Sabha has accepted Kejriwal's resolution.&nbsp;

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I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each & every vote from Delhi goes in your favour, we'll campaign for you. If you don't do so Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi': Delhi CM in Assembly <a href="https://t.co/C22uLu9PSf">pic.twitter.com/C22uLu9PSf</a>
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Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday.&nbsp;

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"Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi," the chief minister tweeted out.

Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal pushed for complete statehood for the national capital today. Earlier in the day, Kejriwal noted that if before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections Delhi is granted the status of complete statehood, he will ensure that each and every electoral vote from the national capital goes to the Bhartiya Janata Party. "I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each and every vote from Delhi goes in your favour," Kejriwal noted at the state assembly today. He further stated that Delhi will campaign for the BJP but the demand for complete statehood is not granted, "Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi'," Kejriwal further added. According to reports, Vidhan Sabha has accepted Kejriwal's resolution. I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each & every vote from Delhi goes in your favour, we'll campaign for you. If you don't do so Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi': Delhi CM in Assembly pic.twitter.com/C22uLu9PSf — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday. Delhi Vidhan Sabha accepts the resolution on full statehood to #Delhi — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × "Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi," the chief minister tweeted out.

Kejriwal pushes for full statehood for Delhi, Vidhan Sabha accepts resolution

In a clarion call, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today exhorted party workers with the slogan 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' (L-G, Quit India) , as the ruling Aam Aadmi Party announced a city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi.&nbsp;

Addressing party's ward-level officer-bearers and legislators at his residence here, the chief minister equalled the fight for Delhi's full statehood with the freedom struggle.&nbsp;

In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign.

He said that in 1947, India got freedom and all British viceroys were removed, but in Delhi, L-G was appointed in place of viceroys.

Elaborating on the campaign, Kejriwal said AAP leaders, MLAs and workers will hold meetings at 300 locations in the national capital from June 17 to June 24 in the first phase of the agitation.

In the second phase, AAP has planned to hold party workers' convention at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 1, where the next course of action will be decided, he said.

"Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi (sic)", the chief minister tweeted after the meeting.

The clarion call for full statehood to Delhi comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year.

According to party sources, the ruling party in Delhi is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We would ask people (during meetings) whether there should be people's rule or L-G's rule in Delhi. L-G creates hurdles in our every project, be it the CCTV project or doorstep delivery of ration," Kejriwal said.

During his address, the AAP supremo also pitched for 85 per cent reservation in recruitment for Delhi government departments.&nbsp;

"If we want to open colleges, they (L-G) do not allow. It is not the issue of just development....Our ancestors had also fought for freedom of the country. Delhi gives Rs 1.3 lakh crore tax to the Centre, but we get nothing in lieu of this...

"Every person in Delhi will get good job and every family will get own house if Delhi is given full statehood status," he said.

The chief minister also attacked former chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, alleging that during her government's tenure, people were fed up with inflated water and electricity bills, as well as the poor condition of government hospitals.&nbsp;

"During your (Sheila) tenure, your party's government was at the Centre for ten years and your L-G was also there. I challenge you to run Delhi under Modi's rule for one year," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

His comment came in response to Dikshit's reported statement that she ruled Delhi for 15 years, but never had any conflict with the Centre and L-G during her tenure.

Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai alleged that the BJP and Congress have taken 'U turn' on the issue of full statehood to Delhi.

The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had tabled a government resolution in this regard.

Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in the assembly tomorrow.

In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign.

In a clarion call, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today exhorted party workers with the slogan 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' (L-G, Quit India) , as the ruling Aam Aadmi Party announced a city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi. Addressing party's ward-level officer-bearers and legislators at his residence here, the chief minister equalled the fight for Delhi's full statehood with the freedom struggle. In a passionate address, he said Mahatma Gandhi had launched Quit India campaign during the British rule, and the Aam Aadmi Party will run 'L-G, Delhi Chodo' campaign. He said that in 1947, India got freedom and all British viceroys were removed, but in Delhi, L-G was appointed in place of viceroys. Elaborating on the campaign, Kejriwal said AAP leaders, MLAs and workers will hold meetings at 300 locations in the national capital from June 17 to June 24 in the first phase of the agitation. In the second phase, AAP has planned to hold party workers' convention at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 1, where the next course of action will be decided, he said. "Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi (sic)", the chief minister tweeted after the meeting. The clarion call for full statehood to Delhi comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year. According to party sources, the ruling party in Delhi is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during the Lok Sabha elections. "We would ask people (during meetings) whether there should be people's rule or L-G's rule in Delhi. L-G creates hurdles in our every project, be it the CCTV project or doorstep delivery of ration," Kejriwal said. During his address, the AAP supremo also pitched for 85 per cent reservation in recruitment for Delhi government departments. "If we want to open colleges, they (L-G) do not allow. It is not the issue of just development....Our ancestors had also fought for freedom of the country. Delhi gives Rs 1.3 lakh crore tax to the Centre, but we get nothing in lieu of this... "Every person in Delhi will get good job and every family will get own house if Delhi is given full statehood status," he said. The chief minister also attacked former chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, alleging that during her government's tenure, people were fed up with inflated water and electricity bills, as well as the poor condition of government hospitals. "During your (Sheila) tenure, your party's government was at the Centre for ten years and your L-G was also there. I challenge you to run Delhi under Modi's rule for one year," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. His comment came in response to Dikshit's reported statement that she ruled Delhi for 15 years, but never had any conflict with the Centre and L-G during her tenure. Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai alleged that the BJP and Congress have taken 'U turn' on the issue of full statehood to Delhi. The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had tabled a government resolution in this regard. Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in the assembly tomorrow.

AAP announces campaign for full statehood to Delhi

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called a meeting with ward-level AAP officer bearers and MLAs at this residence tomorrow to discuss strategy on the issue of full statehood to Delhi which it plans to raise strongly in the run-up to Lok Sabha elections next year, party sources said.

The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister tabled a government resolution in this regard.&nbsp

Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in Delhi Assembly on Monday.

Sources said that the party will also hold a workers' convention in July on the issue of full statehood to Delhi.&nbsp

An AAP functionary said discussions will be held at tomorrow's meeting on a strategy to effective raise the issue of full statehood to the national capital.

As Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held next year, the chief minister, who is also the AAP's national convener, will also discuss poll strategy, another party leader said.

Earlier in the day, senior AAP leader Gopal Rai said that the Aam Aadmi Party will "expose the political opportunism" of both the BJP and Congress on the issue of full statehood for Delhi.

He said the ongoing Delhi Assembly session has "exposed the sudden U-turn" on statehood by the BJP and the Congress.

"BJP has made every attempt during the ongoing Assembly session to avoid discussion on the statehood issue," he told reporters here.

"It is beyond any reasonable understanding as to how the decades-old promise by BJP stalwarts -- former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former deputy PM LK Advani -- has been suddenly junked by today's BJP," Rai said in a statement.&nbsp

The AAP is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during Lok Sabha elections, party sources said.&nbsp

The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister tabled a government resolution in this regard

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called a meeting with ward-level AAP officer bearers and MLAs at this residence tomorrow to discuss strategy on the issue of full statehood to Delhi which it plans to raise strongly in the run-up to Lok Sabha elections next year, party sources said. The AAP government has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly to press its demand for full statehood to Delhi. Earlier this week, Deputy Chief Minister tabled a government resolution in this regard. Kejriwal is likely to speak on the issue in Delhi Assembly on Monday. Sources said that the party will also hold a workers' convention in July on the issue of full statehood to Delhi. An AAP functionary said discussions will be held at tomorrow's meeting on a strategy to effective raise the issue of full statehood to the national capital. As Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held next year, the chief minister, who is also the AAP's national convener, will also discuss poll strategy, another party leader said. Earlier in the day, senior AAP leader Gopal Rai said that the Aam Aadmi Party will "expose the political opportunism" of both the BJP and Congress on the issue of full statehood for Delhi. He said the ongoing Delhi Assembly session has "exposed the sudden U-turn" on statehood by the BJP and the Congress. "BJP has made every attempt during the ongoing Assembly session to avoid discussion on the statehood issue," he told reporters here. "It is beyond any reasonable understanding as to how the decades-old promise by BJP stalwarts -- former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former deputy PM LK Advani -- has been suddenly junked by today's BJP," Rai said in a statement. The AAP is planning to strongly raise the statehood issue during Lok Sabha elections, party sources said.

Kejriwal calls party meet on statehood issue, LS polls strategy to be discussed too

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatever-i-have-to-say-i-will-say-in-nagpur-pranab-mukherjee-on-accepting-rss-invite-141926">Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur: Pranab Mukherjee on accepting RSS invite</a>

Former President Pranab Mukherjee has responded to the criticism (and the many suggestions) he has got after accepting an invite to an RSS event.&nbsp;

Mukherjee has been invited to speak to swayamsevaks in Nagpur on June 7 at the concluding function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's Tritiya Varsha Varg or third-year course.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swarajs-aircraft-goes-incommunicado-for-14-mins-en-route-to-mauritius--141934">En route to Mauritius, Sushma Swaraj's plane went incommunicado for 14 minutes</a>

Mauritius air traffic control was given a serious scare Saturday when External Affaris Minister Sushma Swaraj's aircraft, flying in from Trivandrum, went incommunicado for about 14 minutes.&nbsp;

Swaraj's Embraer ERJ135 jet took from Trivandrum at 4 pm and lost contact at around 4.44 pm.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/autopsy-of-bjp-worker-found-hanging-in-bengal-says-suicide-141953">Autopsy</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/autopsy-of-bjp-worker-found-hanging-in-bengal-says-suicide-141953"> of BJP worker found hanging in Bengal says suicide</a>

The autopsy conducted on the body of the BJP worker found hanging yesterday in West Bengal's Purulia district has indicated he committed suicide.&nbsp;

Dulal Kumar was found hanging from an electricity tower on Saturday.&nbsp;

His was the second body to be found hanging in quick succession.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-a-year-of-keeping-quiet-kejriwal-renews-attacks-on-modi-141947">After a year of keeping quiet, Kejriwal renews attacks on Modi</a>&nbsp;

In 2017, following AAP's poor performance in Punjab and the BJP's sweep in Uttar Pradesh, Kejriwal consciously decided to minimise his attacks on his bete-noire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

He continued with the strategy for a little more than a year. But with the BJP suffering a string of electoral defeats and anti-incumbency sentiment slowly setting in against the BJP government at the Centre, Kejriwal has renewed his attacks on Modi with the same level of acerbity as before.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/swara-bhasker-told-off-by-pakistan-actress-for-calling-the-country-a-failing-state--141923">Swara </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/swara-bhasker-told-off-by-pakistan-actress-for-calling-the-country-a-failing-state--141923">Bhasker</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/features/swara-bhasker-told-off-by-pakistan-actress-for-calling-the-country-a-failing-state--141923"> calls Pakistan 'failing state'. Pak actress calls her 'failing human being'</a>

Pakistani actress Urwa Hocane has responded to Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker calling Pakistan a 'failing state'.&nbsp;

Hocane, in her response, called Bhasker a 'failing human being'.&nbsp;

Bhasker made her comment after her most recent film Veere Di Wedding was banned in Pakistan because of its "vulgar content".&nbsp;

Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur: Pranab Mukherjee on accepting RSS invite Former President Pranab Mukherjee has responded to the criticism (and the many suggestions) he has got after accepting an invite to an RSS event. Mukherjee has been invited to speak to swayamsevaks in Nagpur on June 7 at the concluding function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's Tritiya Varsha Varg or third-year course. En route to Mauritius, Sushma Swaraj's plane went incommunicado for 14 minutes Mauritius air traffic control was given a serious scare Saturday when External Affaris Minister Sushma Swaraj's aircraft, flying in from Trivandrum, went incommunicado for about 14 minutes. Swaraj's Embraer ERJ135 jet took from Trivandrum at 4 pm and lost contact at around 4.44 pm. Autopsy of BJP worker found hanging in Bengal says suicide The autopsy conducted on the body of the BJP worker found hanging yesterday in West Bengal's Purulia district has indicated he committed suicide. Dulal Kumar was found hanging from an electricity tower on Saturday. His was the second body to be found hanging in quick succession. After a year of keeping quiet, Kejriwal renews attacks on Modi In 2017, following AAP's poor performance in Punjab and the BJP's sweep in Uttar Pradesh, Kejriwal consciously decided to minimise his attacks on his bete-noire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He continued with the strategy for a little more than a year. But with the BJP suffering a string of electoral defeats and anti-incumbency sentiment slowly setting in against the BJP government at the Centre, Kejriwal has renewed his attacks on Modi with the same level of acerbity as before. Swara Bhasker calls Pakistan 'failing state'. Pak actress calls her 'failing human being' Pakistani actress Urwa Hocane has responded to Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker calling Pakistan a 'failing state'. Hocane, in her response, called Bhasker a 'failing human being'. Bhasker made her comment after her most recent film Veere Di Wedding was banned in Pakistan because of its "vulgar content".

News brief: Big stories of the day

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be questioned by Delhi Police on May in 18 in connection with the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/breakdown-of-governance-say-ias-officers-after-delhi-chief-secretary-alleges-assault-by-aap-mlas-33465">assault on the state's chief secretary</a>.&nbsp

The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary &nbspAnshu Prakash took place in February.&nbsp

News channels later showed visuals of Prakash — caught on CCTV — walking out of the chief minister's residence.&nbsp

He later claimed he had been assaulted there by two AAP ministers and that the attack on him had taken place in front of Kejriwal.&nbsp

Prakash had reportedly been summoned to the chief minister's residence to discuss the distribution of below-poverty-line rations which Delhi's AAP government said was being stymied by the faulty implementation of Aadhaar.&nbsp

The AAP later put out a statement calling Prakash's allegations "ludicrous".&nbsp

They added that Prakash had told the MLAs that he was not answerable to them, only to the Lieutenant Governor.&nbsp

And that Prakash had "used bad language" with the MLAs.&nbsp

The two AAP MLAs accused of the assault later surrendered&nbspto police.&nbsp 
&nbsp

The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, by AAP MLAs, took place in February

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be questioned by Delhi Police on May in 18 in connection with the assault on the state's chief secretary. The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary &nbspAnshu Prakash took place in February. News channels later showed visuals of Prakash — caught on CCTV — walking out of the chief minister's residence. He later claimed he had been assaulted there by two AAP ministers and that the attack on him had taken place in front of Kejriwal. Prakash had reportedly been summoned to the chief minister's residence to discuss the distribution of below-poverty-line rations which Delhi's AAP government said was being stymied by the faulty implementation of Aadhaar. The AAP later put out a statement calling Prakash's allegations "ludicrous". They added that Prakash had told the MLAs that he was not answerable to them, only to the Lieutenant Governor. And that Prakash had "used bad language" with the MLAs. The two AAP MLAs accused of the assault later surrendered&nbspto police.

Chief Secretary assault case: Delhi CM Kejriwal to be questioned by police on May 18

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today spoke to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the alleged assault on a group of Kashmiris in New Delhi recently.&nbsp

The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister urged her Delhi counterpart to maintain the confidence and safety of Kashmiris in the national capital.

"Mehbooba Mufti asked Arvind Kejriwal to ensure and maintain the confidence and safety of students, businessmen, employees, particularly women from the state so that they do not feel inconvenienced during their stay in the national capital," an official spokesman said.

A mob allegedly thrashed a group of people in southeast Delhi's Sunlight Colony on May 10.&nbsp

Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik, however, informed Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba today that the alleged thrashing of the group had nothing to do with their origin.&nbsp

He said the incident was a local issue, triggered by a dispute over feeding stray dogs.&nbsp

The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister urged her Delhi counterpart to maintain the confidence and safety of Kashmiris in the national capital

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today spoke to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the alleged assault on a group of Kashmiris in New Delhi recently. The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister urged her Delhi counterpart to maintain the confidence and safety of Kashmiris in the national capital. "Mehbooba Mufti asked Arvind Kejriwal to ensure and maintain the confidence and safety of students, businessmen, employees, particularly women from the state so that they do not feel inconvenienced during their stay in the national capital," an official spokesman said. A mob allegedly thrashed a group of people in southeast Delhi's Sunlight Colony on May 10. Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik, however, informed Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba today that the alleged thrashing of the group had nothing to do with their origin. He said the incident was a local issue, triggered by a dispute over feeding stray dogs.

Mehbooba Mufti speaks to Arvind Kejriwal over assault on Kashmiris

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday arrested Vinay Bansal, the son of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's deceased brother-in-law Surendra Kumar Bansal, in connection with alleged irregularities in road and sewer development works by the Public Works Department (PWD).

Bansal was a partner in his father's company Renu Construction, which was involved in the alleged scam.

According to three FIRs registered by the ACB against Kejriwal and others on May 8, 2017, the Delhi Government's PWD committed illegitimate favouritism in awarding a tender to Surendra Kumar Bansal's Renu Construction for road and sewer construction projects.

The complainant, founder of NGO Roads Anti-Corruption Organisation (RACO), Rahul Sharma alleged that the tender was awarded at 46 percent lower than the estimated cost of Rs 4,90,000.

It was also alleged that the product quality was inferior.

The Delhi Police stated that the arrest was made based upon the unsatisfactory answers of the accused during the questioning, regarding Mahadev Company from whom the company claimed to have bought the raw materials.

In the course of the investigation, Mahadev Company was found to be non-existent.

However, the Delhi Government alleged political vendetta behind the arrest, claiming that the construction work undertaken by Bansal's firm was given a clean chit by Sriram Labs, which was directed by the ACB to do the inspection.

It also claimed that a third party certification of the construction was done by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee.&nbsp;

Bansal was a partner in his father's company Renu Construction, which was involved in the alleged scam

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday arrested Vinay Bansal, the son of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's deceased brother-in-law Surendra Kumar Bansal, in connection with alleged irregularities in road and sewer development works by the Public Works Department (PWD). Bansal was a partner in his father's company Renu Construction, which was involved in the alleged scam. According to three FIRs registered by the ACB against Kejriwal and others on May 8, 2017, the Delhi Government's PWD committed illegitimate favouritism in awarding a tender to Surendra Kumar Bansal's Renu Construction for road and sewer construction projects. The complainant, founder of NGO Roads Anti-Corruption Organisation (RACO), Rahul Sharma alleged that the tender was awarded at 46 percent lower than the estimated cost of Rs 4,90,000. It was also alleged that the product quality was inferior. The Delhi Police stated that the arrest was made based upon the unsatisfactory answers of the accused during the questioning, regarding Mahadev Company from whom the company claimed to have bought the raw materials. In the course of the investigation, Mahadev Company was found to be non-existent. However, the Delhi Government alleged political vendetta behind the arrest, claiming that the construction work undertaken by Bansal's firm was given a clean chit by Sriram Labs, which was directed by the ACB to do the inspection. It also claimed that a third party certification of the construction was done by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee.

PWD scam: Arvind Kejriwal's nephew arrested

Dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas on Thursday told the Delhi High Court that his statements against Union minister Arun Jaitley were based on information received as a party worker from Arvind Kejriwal.

Vishwas, who was present in person in court, told Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wants to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the Union Minister were based on documents.

The dissident AAP leader told the court that he needs more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward.

Vishwas is now the only one against whom the defamation suit remains after Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- tendered unequivocal apology to Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister.

Taking note of his request, the court listed the matter for further hearing on May 28.&nbsp

Vishwas, who was present in person in court, told Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wants to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the Union Minister were based on documents

Dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas on Thursday told the Delhi High Court that his statements against Union minister Arun Jaitley were based on information received as a party worker from Arvind Kejriwal. Vishwas, who was present in person in court, told Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wants to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the Union Minister were based on documents. The dissident AAP leader told the court that he needs more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward. Vishwas is now the only one against whom the defamation suit remains after Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- tendered unequivocal apology to Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister. Taking note of his request, the court listed the matter for further hearing on May 28.

Vishwas tells High Court his statements against Jaitley based on Kejriwal's information

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has asked why IAS officers should not be paid on the basis of calories they need.&nbsp

Kejriwal was addressing a meeting of the Delhi Workers' Conference on May Day or International Workers' Day.&nbsp

At the meeting, Kerjiwal said the current minimum wage of Rs 13,500 had earlier been Rs 9,500.

He said the increase was made after the committee studying the issue decided a labourer needed 2,700 calories a day.&nbsp

Kejriwal said he told the committee that a labourer's pay cannot be based only on the calories he needs. That he is a human, not an animal. That he needs to buy clothes, educate his children.&nbsp

Which is when Kejriwal added that "you can pay IAS officers based on their caloric needs, not labourers".&nbsp

Relations between the AAP government and the bureaucracy have been tense since the alleged beating of Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by Aam Aadmi Party MLAs.

Kerjriwal&nbspalso added that his government is working on abolishing the contract labour system in Delhi and on regularising the services of contractual workers. That had been one of Kerjiwal's campaign promises.&nbsp

"If Delhi was granted statehood, we would have made all contractual labourers permanent. We are facing certain hurdles but we will do it soon. We will take strict action against those not abiding by minimum wage norms for labours,"&nbspKejriwal said.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

Kejriwal was addressing a meeting of the Delhi Workers' Conference on May Day or International Workers' Day

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has asked why IAS officers should not be paid on the basis of calories they need. Kejriwal was addressing a meeting of the Delhi Workers' Conference on May Day or International Workers' Day. At the meeting, Kerjiwal said the current minimum wage of Rs 13,500 had earlier been Rs 9,500. He said the increase was made after the committee studying the issue decided a labourer needed 2,700 calories a day. Kejriwal said he told the committee that a labourer's pay cannot be based only on the calories he needs. That he is a human, not an animal. That he needs to buy clothes, educate his children. Which is when Kejriwal added that "you can pay IAS officers based on their caloric needs, not labourers". Relations between the AAP government and the bureaucracy have been tense since the alleged beating of Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by Aam Aadmi Party MLAs. Kerjriwal&nbspalso added that his government is working on abolishing the contract labour system in Delhi and on regularising the services of contractual workers. That had been one of Kerjiwal's campaign promises. "If Delhi was granted statehood, we would have made all contractual labourers permanent. We are facing certain hurdles but we will do it soon. We will take strict action against those not abiding by minimum wage norms for labours,"&nbspKejriwal said. (With inputs from PTI)

Why not pay IAS officers on basis of calories they need? Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kerjiwal

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday withdrew from the Delhi High Court his pleas challenging trial court orders in a criminal defamation case filed against him by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in connection with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) row.&nbsp

The lawyers for Kejriwal told the high court that since he has been acquitted in the case after he had apologised for his statements against Jaitley in connection with alleged irregularities in DDCA, the AAP convenor's appeals against the trial court orders have become infructuous.

Taking note of the submission, Justice A K Pathak dismissed as withdrawn the two pleas seeking quashing of the summons issued to Kejriwal in the criminal defamation case and expunging of remarks made against him by the trial court.

The trial court had on April 3 acquitted Kejriwal and four other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai - after a joint application was filed by them and Jaitley to settle the matter.

The application was filed on April 2 after the AAP leaders apologised to Jaitley for their statements against him and his family in connection with alleged irregularities in the DDCA.

Jaitley had accused Kejriwal and other AAP leaders -- Kumar Viswas, Singh, Chadha, Ashutosh and Bajpai -- of making a series of "false, scandalous and defamatory" allegations against him, claiming it adversely affected his reputation.

Vishwas has not yet tendered an apology and hence, the proceedings against him shall continue.

The AAP leaders had alleged financial irregularities in the DDCA when Jaitley was its president from 2000 to 2013, prompting the minister to lodge a defamation case against them while denying all the allegations.

The criminal defamation case has been filed against Arvind Kejriwal by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in connection with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) row

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday withdrew from the Delhi High Court his pleas challenging trial court orders in a criminal defamation case filed against him by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in connection with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) row. The lawyers for Kejriwal told the high court that since he has been acquitted in the case after he had apologised for his statements against Jaitley in connection with alleged irregularities in DDCA, the AAP convenor's appeals against the trial court orders have become infructuous. Taking note of the submission, Justice A K Pathak dismissed as withdrawn the two pleas seeking quashing of the summons issued to Kejriwal in the criminal defamation case and expunging of remarks made against him by the trial court. The trial court had on April 3 acquitted Kejriwal and four other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai - after a joint application was filed by them and Jaitley to settle the matter. The application was filed on April 2 after the AAP leaders apologised to Jaitley for their statements against him and his family in connection with alleged irregularities in the DDCA. Jaitley had accused Kejriwal and other AAP leaders -- Kumar Viswas, Singh, Chadha, Ashutosh and Bajpai -- of making a series of "false, scandalous and defamatory" allegations against him, claiming it adversely affected his reputation. Vishwas has not yet tendered an apology and hence, the proceedings against him shall continue. The AAP leaders had alleged financial irregularities in the DDCA when Jaitley was its president from 2000 to 2013, prompting the minister to lodge a defamation case against them while denying all the allegations.

Kejriwal withdraws appeal in high court against summons in defamation case

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has slammed Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's (DMRC) recent move to hike parking charges. Kejriwal noted that the move of increasing parking fare, "will completely kill Delhi Metro".

The chief minister noted that the decision will result in an increase in congestion and pollution on the city's roads.

DMRC has announced an increase in parking fees across different slabs by 50 per cent.

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First fare hike and now parking charges hike. These steps will completely kill Delhi Metro n increase congestion n pollution on roads. Sad <a href="https://t.co/f1PWBcduKA">https://t.co/f1PWBcduKA</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/989138237355708416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"First fare hike and now parking charges hike. These steps will completely kill Delhi Metro n increase congestion n pollution on roads. Sad," Kejriwal tweeted.

Delhi's Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain also commented on the issue, the minister tweeted out saying that, "Metro increased parking charges by 50%. Earlier increased fares by 100%. God knows who is advising Delhi Metro".

The hike will be applicable to parking cars, bikes and cycles the move will come into effect from May 1.

Delhi Metro's statement notified the increase in the parking charges citing "higher charges by civic agencies".&nbsp;

"The Metro parking charges have not been changed for the last five years and the current charges are very much lower than the parking charges being levied by civic agencies for their parking lots," the statement read.&nbsp;

Parking charges for four-wheeler vehicles for six hours have been increased from Rs 20 to Rs 30. For parking up to 12 hours, the charge has been increased from Rs 30 to Rs 50.&nbsp;

For two-wheelers, the charges have been increased to Rs 15 and Rs 25 from Rs 10 and Rs 15 respectively for six and twelve-hour parking.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The hike will be applicable to parking cars, bikes and cycles; the move will come into effect from May 1

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has slammed Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's (DMRC) recent move to hike parking charges. Kejriwal noted that the move of increasing parking fare, "will completely kill Delhi Metro". The chief minister noted that the decision will result in an increase in congestion and pollution on the city's roads. DMRC has announced an increase in parking fees across different slabs by 50 per cent. First fare hike and now parking charges hike. These steps will completely kill Delhi Metro n increase congestion n pollution on roads. Sad https://t.co/f1PWBcduKA — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 25, 2018 × "First fare hike and now parking charges hike. These steps will completely kill Delhi Metro n increase congestion n pollution on roads. Sad," Kejriwal tweeted. Delhi's Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain also commented on the issue, the minister tweeted out saying that, "Metro increased parking charges by 50%. Earlier increased fares by 100%. God knows who is advising Delhi Metro". The hike will be applicable to parking cars, bikes and cycles the move will come into effect from May 1. Delhi Metro's statement notified the increase in the parking charges citing "higher charges by civic agencies". "The Metro parking charges have not been changed for the last five years and the current charges are very much lower than the parking charges being levied by civic agencies for their parking lots," the statement read. Parking charges for four-wheeler vehicles for six hours have been increased from Rs 20 to Rs 30. For parking up to 12 hours, the charge has been increased from Rs 30 to Rs 50. For two-wheelers, the charges have been increased to Rs 15 and Rs 25 from Rs 10 and Rs 15 respectively for six and twelve-hour parking. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will completely kill Delhi Metro,' Kejriwal says after parking fare hike

A Delhi court has dismissed a plea seeking prosecution of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others for allegedly defaming Prime Minister Narendra Modi by raising questions over his educational degree, saying only aggrieved persons can file defamation complaints.

Three persons -- Yogesh Bhardwaj, Rakshpal Singh and Ijharul-Haq -- had moved the court seeking an order asking the police to lodge an FIR against Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and AAP leaders Ashutosh, Raghav Chadha, Ashish Khetan and Jitender Singh Tomar, for allegedly defaming the Prime Minister.

"Only an aggrieved person, that is a person who has been defamed, can prosecute for his defamation.&nbsp;

"Admittedly, the complainants are not the aggrieved/victims of defamatory statements, if any, made by the respondents (Kejriwal, Sisodia, Ashutosh, Chadha, Khetan and Tomar). Therefore, they have no locus to file and prosecute the present case as far as the offence of defamation is concerned," Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal said while summarily rejecting the complaint.&nbsp;

The court also noted that the complainants had not given any thought on what offence they were alleging against the respondents persons.

"The complainants state in the heading of the complaint, the commission of following other offences, that is 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code but did not elaborate how these offences are made out in this case.

All these offences except 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of IPC relates to the offence of forgery," it said.

The court also said that no offence for forgery could be attributed to the respondents as the complainants did not place on record the document which has been forged.

Regarding section 504, the court said there was nothing in the complaint to substantiate this charge.

"The complaint has no merits. Not only on merits that no case is made out, but also for want of locus to prosecute, I refuse to direct registration of FIR and refuse to take cognisance of the offence under section 499, 500, 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 of IPC against the respondents. The complaint is accordingly dismissed," the court said.&nbsp;

The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016 on the issue of his degrees and tarnished his image by showing his false degrees in press conferences and print and other social media.

However, the University of Delhi on May 11, 2016 made the Prime Minister's degrees public which had exposed the false propaganda of the accused persons, it had said.&nbsp;

The complainants also claimed to have approached the police which did not take any step against the accused persons.&nbsp;

The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016

A Delhi court has dismissed a plea seeking prosecution of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others for allegedly defaming Prime Minister Narendra Modi by raising questions over his educational degree, saying only aggrieved persons can file defamation complaints. Three persons -- Yogesh Bhardwaj, Rakshpal Singh and Ijharul-Haq -- had moved the court seeking an order asking the police to lodge an FIR against Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and AAP leaders Ashutosh, Raghav Chadha, Ashish Khetan and Jitender Singh Tomar, for allegedly defaming the Prime Minister. "Only an aggrieved person, that is a person who has been defamed, can prosecute for his defamation. "Admittedly, the complainants are not the aggrieved/victims of defamatory statements, if any, made by the respondents (Kejriwal, Sisodia, Ashutosh, Chadha, Khetan and Tomar). Therefore, they have no locus to file and prosecute the present case as far as the offence of defamation is concerned," Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal said while summarily rejecting the complaint. The court also noted that the complainants had not given any thought on what offence they were alleging against the respondents persons. "The complainants state in the heading of the complaint, the commission of following other offences, that is 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code but did not elaborate how these offences are made out in this case. All these offences except 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of IPC relates to the offence of forgery," it said. The court also said that no offence for forgery could be attributed to the respondents as the complainants did not place on record the document which has been forged. Regarding section 504, the court said there was nothing in the complaint to substantiate this charge. "The complaint has no merits. Not only on merits that no case is made out, but also for want of locus to prosecute, I refuse to direct registration of FIR and refuse to take cognisance of the offence under section 499, 500, 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 of IPC against the respondents. The complaint is accordingly dismissed," the court said. The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016 on the issue of his degrees and tarnished his image by showing his false degrees in press conferences and print and other social media. However, the University of Delhi on May 11, 2016 made the Prime Minister's degrees public which had exposed the false propaganda of the accused persons, it had said. The complainants also claimed to have approached the police which did not take any step against the accused persons.

Court dismisses plea against Kejriwal for defaming PM Modi

AAP leader and Vice Chairman of the Delhi Dialogue Commission (DDC) Ashish Khetan has resigned from the post, saying he now wanted to practise law.

Khetan, a journalist-turned-politician and a trusted aide of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was appointed the vice-chairman of the DDC, an advisory body of the AAP government, three years ago. The DDC is headed by Kejriwal.

"I have resigned as VC, DDC, with effect from April 16. During the past three years I had a unique opportunity to shape public policy & bring about reform and change in governance. I am grateful to Arvind Kejriwal, the Hon'ble CM, for giving me this wonderful opportunity," Khetan wrote on Twitter.

"I am joining the legal profession and enrolling with the Bar at Delhi, which actually necessitated my resignation from the DDC. Bar Council Rules prohibit practicing advocates from any kind of private or government employment," he said in another tweet.

Khetan said that besides pursuing routine cases, he would take up legal causes in the larger public interest.&nbsp;

Khetan, a journalist-turned-politician and a trusted aide of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was appointed the vice-chairman of the DDC, an advisory body of the AAP government, three years ago

AAP leader and Vice Chairman of the Delhi Dialogue Commission (DDC) Ashish Khetan has resigned from the post, saying he now wanted to practise law. Khetan, a journalist-turned-politician and a trusted aide of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was appointed the vice-chairman of the DDC, an advisory body of the AAP government, three years ago. The DDC is headed by Kejriwal. "I have resigned as VC, DDC, with effect from April 16. During the past three years I had a unique opportunity to shape public policy & bring about reform and change in governance. I am grateful to Arvind Kejriwal, the Hon'ble CM, for giving me this wonderful opportunity," Khetan wrote on Twitter. "I am joining the legal profession and enrolling with the Bar at Delhi, which actually necessitated my resignation from the DDC. Bar Council Rules prohibit practicing advocates from any kind of private or government employment," he said in another tweet. Khetan said that besides pursuing routine cases, he would take up legal causes in the larger public interest.

AAP leader Ashish Khetan resigns from Delhi Dialogue Commission, now wants to practise law

The tussle between the AAP Government and the Centre further escalated on Tuesday with the cancellation of appointment of nine advisors to Delhi ministers, including those assisting Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, following the Union Home Ministry's directions which said these posts were "not sanctioned".

Launching a scathing attack on the Centre over the issue, Sisodia said that the Narendra Modi government's order was a "conspiracy to derail" the "education revolution" in Delhi.

Since no BJP government has been able to deliver anything in education and health sectors, the Centre is trying to paralyse the AAP government, he alleged, adding his advisor Atisi Marlena, who was playing a "vital role" in improving the education system, has been "targeted".

According to an order issued by General Administration Department of the Delhi government, the MHA had written in its letter that these posts on which the appointees are officiating are not in the list of posts approved for the ministers and the chief minister of Delhi.

"No prior approval of the central government has been taken for creation of said posts on which these persons have been appointed on co-terminus basis," the GAD order stated.&nbsp;

The Home ministry had sent the letter to GAD on April 10. The services are under the Lieutenant Governor.&nbsp;

Among the nine advisors whose appointment has been cancelled are Amardeep Tiwari (media advisor to law minister), Arunodya Prakash (media advisor to deputy chief minister), Raghav Chadha (advisor to finance minister), Atishi Marlena (media advisor to deputy chief minister).&nbsp;

Following the move, Sisodia took to twitter and said, "Modi Govt's order to remove Delhi govt advisors is a conspiracy to derail education revolution in Delhi.

"Real intention of the order is to paralyse our govt work, since no BJP govt has been able to deliver anything on education & health," he said.

Sisodia tweeted,"No wonder why Modi govt decided to remove advisors like @AtishiMarlena - an Stephenian who later studied at Oxford, then worked as Rhodes scholar, and then joined Delhi Education govt as advisor. She was working with me on Re 1/pm salary for last 3 years."

Later addressing reporters, he said that the Centre wants to "undermine" the education system in Delhi.

Sisodia said that the BJP-led government has targeted his advisor Marlena through this order as she is playing a vital role in improving the education system.

The deputy chief minister said that out of nine advisors, only four are currently working with the Delhi government.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to undermine the Delhi's education system that is why this order has been issued today," Sisodia alleged.&nbsp;

The Arvind Kejriwal government and the Centre have been at loggerheads on a range of issues, especialy appointment of officials.

 
&nbsp;

Launching a scathing attack on the Centre over the issue, Sisodia said that the Narendra Modi government's order was a 'conspiracy to derail' the 'education revolution' in Delhi

The tussle between the AAP Government and the Centre further escalated on Tuesday with the cancellation of appointment of nine advisors to Delhi ministers, including those assisting Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, following the Union Home Ministry's directions which said these posts were "not sanctioned". Launching a scathing attack on the Centre over the issue, Sisodia said that the Narendra Modi government's order was a "conspiracy to derail" the "education revolution" in Delhi. Since no BJP government has been able to deliver anything in education and health sectors, the Centre is trying to paralyse the AAP government, he alleged, adding his advisor Atisi Marlena, who was playing a "vital role" in improving the education system, has been "targeted". According to an order issued by General Administration Department of the Delhi government, the MHA had written in its letter that these posts on which the appointees are officiating are not in the list of posts approved for the ministers and the chief minister of Delhi. "No prior approval of the central government has been taken for creation of said posts on which these persons have been appointed on co-terminus basis," the GAD order stated. The Home ministry had sent the letter to GAD on April 10. The services are under the Lieutenant Governor. Among the nine advisors whose appointment has been cancelled are Amardeep Tiwari (media advisor to law minister), Arunodya Prakash (media advisor to deputy chief minister), Raghav Chadha (advisor to finance minister), Atishi Marlena (media advisor to deputy chief minister). Following the move, Sisodia took to twitter and said, "Modi Govt's order to remove Delhi govt advisors is a conspiracy to derail education revolution in Delhi. "Real intention of the order is to paralyse our govt work, since no BJP govt has been able to deliver anything on education & health," he said. Sisodia tweeted,"No wonder why Modi govt decided to remove advisors like @AtishiMarlena - an Stephenian who later studied at Oxford, then worked as Rhodes scholar, and then joined Delhi Education govt as advisor. She was working with me on Re 1/pm salary for last 3 years." Later addressing reporters, he said that the Centre wants to "undermine" the education system in Delhi. Sisodia said that the BJP-led government has targeted his advisor Marlena through this order as she is playing a vital role in improving the education system. The deputy chief minister said that out of nine advisors, only four are currently working with the Delhi government. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to undermine the Delhi's education system that is why this order has been issued today," Sisodia alleged. The Arvind Kejriwal government and the Centre have been at loggerheads on a range of issues, especialy appointment of officials.

AAP-Centre tussle: Appointment of 9 advisors cancelled

The Delhi High Court today asked Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal why cannot he apologise to a constable for allegedly using the slang 'thulla' for policemen, when he has been seeking pardon from others like Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

Justice Anu Malhotra said if Kejriwal is apologising to others for his remarks, why can't he do the same to the police officials and settle the matter.

His counsel said he would seek instructions from the chief minister on this, following which the court listed the matter for further hearing on May 29.

The court was hearing a plea by Kejriwal seeking quashing of a trial court order summoning him in a criminal defamation complaint filed by a constable.

During the past few weeks, Kejriwal has tendered apology to Jaitley, Bikram Majithia and others for his comments against them.

The court had earlier stayed the trial court order summoning Kejriwal in the defamation complaint filed by Delhi Police constable Anil Kumar Taneja, who had sought dismissal of his petition seeking stay and quashing of the trial court order summoning him.&nbsp;

Opposing the Chief Minister's plea, the constable in his reply, filed through advocate L N Rao, had alleged that Kejriwal had "crossed all limits of decency" by using the insulting word 'thulla' for a policeman in an interview to a news channel.

Taneja, who had filed the criminal defamation complaint filed on July 23, 2015, had claimed that by using the slang, Kejriwal "has intentionally insulted entire Delhi Police force as a whole and caused unnecessary provocation to the police personnel in Delhi".

The high court in July last had asked Kejriwal to explain the meaning of word 'thulla' he had allegedly used against the policemen while staying the trial court's order.

He word used by Kejriwal is a Hindi word and the high court wanted to know its meaning as it does not exist in the dictionary.

Earlier, Kejriwal's counsel had told the court that the word 'Thulla' was not used against all policemen but against those indulging in wrong practices.&nbsp;

Justice Anu Malhotra said if Kejriwal is apologising to others for his remarks, why can't he do the same to the police officials and settle the matter

The Delhi High Court today asked Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal why cannot he apologise to a constable for allegedly using the slang 'thulla' for policemen, when he has been seeking pardon from others like Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Justice Anu Malhotra said if Kejriwal is apologising to others for his remarks, why can't he do the same to the police officials and settle the matter. His counsel said he would seek instructions from the chief minister on this, following which the court listed the matter for further hearing on May 29. The court was hearing a plea by Kejriwal seeking quashing of a trial court order summoning him in a criminal defamation complaint filed by a constable. During the past few weeks, Kejriwal has tendered apology to Jaitley, Bikram Majithia and others for his comments against them. The court had earlier stayed the trial court order summoning Kejriwal in the defamation complaint filed by Delhi Police constable Anil Kumar Taneja, who had sought dismissal of his petition seeking stay and quashing of the trial court order summoning him. Opposing the Chief Minister's plea, the constable in his reply, filed through advocate L N Rao, had alleged that Kejriwal had "crossed all limits of decency" by using the insulting word 'thulla' for a policeman in an interview to a news channel. Taneja, who had filed the criminal defamation complaint filed on July 23, 2015, had claimed that by using the slang, Kejriwal "has intentionally insulted entire Delhi Police force as a whole and caused unnecessary provocation to the police personnel in Delhi". The high court in July last had asked Kejriwal to explain the meaning of word 'thulla' he had allegedly used against the policemen while staying the trial court's order. He word used by Kejriwal is a Hindi word and the high court wanted to know its meaning as it does not exist in the dictionary. Earlier, Kejriwal's counsel had told the court that the word 'Thulla' was not used against all policemen but against those indulging in wrong practices.

High Court asks Arvind Kejriwal why can't he apologise for 'thulla' remark

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar has blamed the Aam Aadmi Party for vitiating the atmosphere. While addressing press the&nbsp;Minister of Human Resource and Development said that people from AAP held out a rally outside a Delhi Mosque during Ram Navami. He added that the people shouted inciting slogans and&nbsp;were dressed in saffron.

Javadeskar said, " Yesterday I saw on a channel that on Sri Ram Navmi some saffron clad people gathered outside a Delhi Mosque with swords and raised inciting slogans, later it was revealed that they belonged to AAP. It is clear attempt to vitiate atmosphere".

He also questioned the Congress party about the arrest of state chief Ghulam Mir.&nbsp;

He said, " Our two ministers resigned, but Congress state chief Ghulam Mir said the same so why no action against him by Rahul Ji? Jammu Bar Association chief was polling agent of GN Azad. Azad ji&nbsp;has no responsibility? He should apologise to nation".

The Congress state chief reportedly spoke in support of the outfits that protested against the arrest of the accused involved in Kathua rape and murder case. Citing a video, reports also said that the Congress Chief claimed that the real culprits in the case were being protected.&nbsp;

Two BJP leaders Lal Singh and Chander Prakash Ganga resigned from the party on Friday over massive outrage that emerged following their participation in a rally that was organised in support of the accused in Kathua gang rape and murder.

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Yesterday I saw on a channel that on Sri Ram Navmi some saffron clad ppl gathered outside a Delhi Mosque with swords&raised inciting slogans,later it was revealed that they belonged to AAP. It is a clear attempt to vitiate atmosphere: Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister <a href="https://t.co/PIKxN6zJNH">pic.twitter.com/PIKxN6zJNH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/985425833178357760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Javadeskar said, ' Yesterday I saw on a channel that on Sri Ram Navmi some saffron clad people gathered outside a Delhi Mosque with swords and raised inciting slogans, later it was revealed that they belonged to AAP. It is clear attempt to vitiate atmosphere'

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar has blamed the Aam Aadmi Party for vitiating the atmosphere. While addressing press the Minister of Human Resource and Development said that people from AAP held out a rally outside a Delhi Mosque during Ram Navami. He added that the people shouted inciting slogans and were dressed in saffron. Javadeskar said, " Yesterday I saw on a channel that on Sri Ram Navmi some saffron clad people gathered outside a Delhi Mosque with swords and raised inciting slogans, later it was revealed that they belonged to AAP. It is clear attempt to vitiate atmosphere". He also questioned the Congress party about the arrest of state chief Ghulam Mir. He said, " Our two ministers resigned, but Congress state chief Ghulam Mir said the same so why no action against him by Rahul Ji? Jammu Bar Association chief was polling agent of GN Azad. Azad ji has no responsibility? He should apologise to nation". The Congress state chief reportedly spoke in support of the outfits that protested against the arrest of the accused involved in Kathua rape and murder case. Citing a video, reports also said that the Congress Chief claimed that the real culprits in the case were being protected. Two BJP leaders Lal Singh and Chander Prakash Ganga resigned from the party on Friday over massive outrage that emerged following their participation in a rally that was organised in support of the accused in Kathua gang rape and murder. Yesterday I saw on a channel that on Sri Ram Navmi some saffron clad ppl gathered outside a Delhi Mosque with swords&raised inciting slogans,later it was revealed that they belonged to AAP. It is a clear attempt to vitiate atmosphere: Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister pic.twitter.com/PIKxN6zJNH — ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2018 ×

Saffron-clad AAP members wielding swords gathered outside mosque: Javadekar

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met&nbsp;his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu at Andhra Bhavan in Delhi on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported.

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Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party Chief Arvind Kejriwal met Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/s2jqA3rR1c">pic.twitter.com/s2jqA3rR1c</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/981373242572181504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The details of the meeting is not known yet.&nbsp;

Naidu, who is on a two-day visit to the national capital arrived on Monday night. On Tuesday, he met several leaders from different parties in the Parliament over securing a Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh.

The list of party members that Naidu met in the Parliament's central hall are- Sharad Pawar (NCP), Farooq Abdullah (J-K NC), Saugata Roy (TMC), Supriya Sule (NCP), Jyotiraditya Scindia (Congress), Jitender Reddy (TRS), M Veerappa Moily (Congress) and Rajiv Satav (Congress). He also met Anupriya Patel (Apna Dal), Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Shiromani Akali Dal) and Tariq Anwar (NCP).

For the unversed, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre has been at loggerheads over the non-issuance of the special status to the state, which subsequently led to the former withdrawing from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) last month. (ANI)

Naidu, who is on a two-day visit to the national capital arrived on Monday night. On Tuesday, he met several leaders from different parties in the Parliament over securing a Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu at Andhra Bhavan in Delhi on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported. Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party Chief Arvind Kejriwal met Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/s2jqA3rR1c — ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2018 × The details of the meeting is not known yet. Naidu, who is on a two-day visit to the national capital arrived on Monday night. On Tuesday, he met several leaders from different parties in the Parliament over securing a Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh. The list of party members that Naidu met in the Parliament's central hall are- Sharad Pawar (NCP), Farooq Abdullah (J-K NC), Saugata Roy (TMC), Supriya Sule (NCP), Jyotiraditya Scindia (Congress), Jitender Reddy (TRS), M Veerappa Moily (Congress) and Rajiv Satav (Congress). He also met Anupriya Patel (Apna Dal), Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Shiromani Akali Dal) and Tariq Anwar (NCP). For the unversed, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre has been at loggerheads over the non-issuance of the special status to the state, which subsequently led to the former withdrawing from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) last month. (ANI)

Arvind Kejriwal meets Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu

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