India still held hostage to caste politics. Different Deputy CMs represent different castes in Andhra Pradesh. Cabinet to be announced on Saturday. Jagan Mohan Reddy got 151 seats in recent Assembly Election in Andhra Pradesh.

India Watch: Jagan To have 5 Deputy CMs

The three-day session of the eighth Mizoram Assembly was adjourned sine die by Speaker Lalrinliana Sailo on Thursday.

The session, which commenced on Tuesday, witnessed administering of oath to the new legislators, who were elected in the 40-member state Assembly on November 28.

The House elected Lalrinliana Sailo, a four-time legislator as Speaker unopposed on the first day.

Governor Kummanam Rajasekharan delivered his customary gubernatorial address in the Assembly on Wednesday.

The Assembly paid tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former legislator Chawngzuala and sitting legislator S Laldingliana after which Lalrinawma was elected unopposed as deputy speaker on the third and last day of the first session of the eighth Assembly.

The House adopted the motion of thanks on the speech of the governor after which the speaker adjourned the session.

The three-day session of the eighth Mizoram Assembly was adjourned sine die by Speaker Lalrinliana Sailo on Thursday. The session, which commenced on Tuesday, witnessed administering of oath to the new legislators, who were elected in the 40-member state Assembly on November 28.

The three-day session of the eighth Mizoram Assembly was adjourned sine die by Speaker Lalrinliana Sailo on Thursday. The session, which commenced on Tuesday, witnessed administering of oath to the new legislators, who were elected in the 40-member state Assembly on November 28. The House elected Lalrinliana Sailo, a four-time legislator as Speaker unopposed on the first day. Governor Kummanam Rajasekharan delivered his customary gubernatorial address in the Assembly on Wednesday. The Assembly paid tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former legislator Chawngzuala and sitting legislator S Laldingliana after which Lalrinawma was elected unopposed as deputy speaker on the third and last day of the first session of the eighth Assembly. The House adopted the motion of thanks on the speech of the governor after which the speaker adjourned the session.

Mizoram Assembly adjourned sine die

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results.

Roat will now be taking oath as a member of the 15th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.

Elected on a Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) ticket from Chorasi constituency of tribal Dungarpur district by defeating BJP candidate Sushil Katara, Roat is now looking forward to raising issues of his constituency in the assembly instead of looking for a government job.

The journey from the nondescript Khankar Khoonia village in Dungarpur, where he was active in student politics and working on local issues, to the state capital has been just a three-odd month affair for Roat who was picked up by BTP to contest elections.

"Proper Implementation of schedule of V of the Constitution in tribal areas is the main agenda we tribals want. Both BJP and Congress have ruled the country and the state but issues related to tribals were never addressed in a suitable manner and my full focus will be on working in this direction,? Roat told PTI.

Like any other graduate, Roat, youngest among three siblings, was also looking for a job and his inspiration was his elder sister, who is in government service but he developed an interest in students politics and won student union elections in 2013-14.&nbsp;

Covering a distance of nearly 25 km to reach Dungarpur from his village on his motorcycle was a routine affair for Roat who established a great connect with locals, both young and old, and was working to make them aware of their rights and constitutional provisions for tribals.

The popularity of the young man as a "true voice of tribals"&nbsp;in the local area paid dividends and people voted him in the December 7 elections, results of which were announced on December 11.

"I will be raising the voice of my people in the temple of democracy,"&nbsp;he said.

After his father, who was the lone bread earner for the family, died sometime before his birth, his mother started working and somehow the family of four sustained.&nbsp;

"Farming is now the main source of income for us. My family wanted me to get a government job. I too initially wanted and appeared in competitive exams like RAS and recently appeared in sub inspector exam for which results are awaited. Three months back when I was asked by BTP to contest election, I was like, 'Okay? let's see', and comfortably won,"&nbsp;he said.

Roat defeated Sushil Katara, who was a state minister in the Vasundhara raje government, with a margin of 12,934 votes.

"I understand that this is a big responsibility at this young age but I am confident of performing well and stand true to the expectations of my people,? he said. 
The Gujarat-based party had fielded 11 candidates in South Rajasthan and two of them have won elections.

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results.

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results. Roat will now be taking oath as a member of the 15th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Elected on a Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) ticket from Chorasi constituency of tribal Dungarpur district by defeating BJP candidate Sushil Katara, Roat is now looking forward to raising issues of his constituency in the assembly instead of looking for a government job. The journey from the nondescript Khankar Khoonia village in Dungarpur, where he was active in student politics and working on local issues, to the state capital has been just a three-odd month affair for Roat who was picked up by BTP to contest elections. "Proper Implementation of schedule of V of the Constitution in tribal areas is the main agenda we tribals want. Both BJP and Congress have ruled the country and the state but issues related to tribals were never addressed in a suitable manner and my full focus will be on working in this direction,? Roat told PTI. Like any other graduate, Roat, youngest among three siblings, was also looking for a job and his inspiration was his elder sister, who is in government service but he developed an interest in students politics and won student union elections in 2013-14. Covering a distance of nearly 25 km to reach Dungarpur from his village on his motorcycle was a routine affair for Roat who established a great connect with locals, both young and old, and was working to make them aware of their rights and constitutional provisions for tribals. The popularity of the young man as a "true voice of tribals" in the local area paid dividends and people voted him in the December 7 elections, results of which were announced on December 11. "I will be raising the voice of my people in the temple of democracy," he said. After his father, who was the lone bread earner for the family, died sometime before his birth, his mother started working and somehow the family of four sustained. "Farming is now the main source of income for us. My family wanted me to get a government job. I too initially wanted and appeared in competitive exams like RAS and recently appeared in sub inspector exam for which results are awaited. Three months back when I was asked by BTP to contest election, I was like, 'Okay? let's see', and comfortably won," he said. Roat defeated Sushil Katara, who was a state minister in the Vasundhara raje government, with a margin of 12,934 votes. "I understand that this is a big responsibility at this young age but I am confident of performing well and stand true to the expectations of my people,? he said. The Gujarat-based party had fielded 11 candidates in South Rajasthan and two of them have won elections.

Roat hopes to raise tribal issues in Rajasthan Assembly

Counting for all seats in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-time-for-change-rahul-gandhi-after-poll-results-183326">Madhya Pradesh </a>has got over on Wednesday morning and the Congress has emerged as the single-largest party.

No party has got a clear mandate to form government yet.

As of 8.00 am on Wednesday, the results of the 230 seats have been declared. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/modis-bjp-faces-losses-in-key-states-ahead-of-2019-elections-know-2019-poll-projection-for-bjp-183351">Congress has won 114 seats</a>.&nbsp;

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 109 seats. The Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has won two seats.&nbsp;

The Samajwadi Party (SP) has won one seat and Independent candidates have won four.

The Congress will have to enlist the support of at least one of the four independents or of the lone Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate elected in Madhya Pradesh to form the next government in the state.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has won from his traditional Budhni seat by a margin of 58,999 votes, defeating former Union minister and senior Congress leader Arun Yadav.

Counting for the election, held on November 28, began at 8 am Tuesday.

Following is the party position in the outgoing House: BJP -165, Congress - 58, BSP - four and Independents - three.

The resurgent Congress has made significant gains in the Assembly elections, dealing a body blow to the BJP in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan and emerged as the single largest party in Madhya Pradesh.

The reverses for the BJP in the Hindi heartland threw wide open the 2019 Lok Sabha elections which until a few months ago appeared to be in the grip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party.

(With inputs from PTI)

Counting for all seats in Madhya Pradesh has got over on Wednesday morning and the Congress has emerged as the single-largest party. No party has got a clear mandate to form government yet.

Counting for all seats in Madhya Pradesh has got over on Wednesday morning and the Congress has emerged as the single-largest party. No party has got a clear mandate to form government yet. As of 8.00 am on Wednesday, the results of the 230 seats have been declared. The Congress has won 114 seats. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 109 seats. The Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has won two seats. The Samajwadi Party (SP) has won one seat and Independent candidates have won four. The Congress will have to enlist the support of at least one of the four independents or of the lone Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate elected in Madhya Pradesh to form the next government in the state. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has won from his traditional Budhni seat by a margin of 58,999 votes, defeating former Union minister and senior Congress leader Arun Yadav. Counting for the election, held on November 28, began at 8 am Tuesday. Following is the party position in the outgoing House: BJP -165, Congress - 58, BSP - four and Independents - three. The resurgent Congress has made significant gains in the Assembly elections, dealing a body blow to the BJP in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan and emerged as the single largest party in Madhya Pradesh. The reverses for the BJP in the Hindi heartland threw wide open the 2019 Lok Sabha elections which until a few months ago appeared to be in the grip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party. (With inputs from PTI)

Assembly election results: No party gets clear mandate in Madhya Pradesh

Assembly Elections 2018: Voting underway in Rajasthan, Telangana

A gift to Rahul Gandhi, says Sachin Pilot on Rajasthan trends

Telangana BJP Chief, K Laxman, on Sunday hinted at the possibility of an alliance in the state noting that in the absence of a clear mandate the party will be a part of the government.&nbsp;

"We’ll not support Congress or AIMIM, but other options are open. The decision will be taken in consultation with our high command," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Telangana Rashtra Samiti spokesperson Bhanu Prasad said that the party doesn't need an alliance.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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K Laxman, Telangana BJP Chief: There can't be a govt without BJP in Telangana. In case people have not given a clear mandate we’ll be a part of govt. We’ll not support Congress or AIMIM, but other options are open. The decision will be taken in consultation with our high command. <a href="https://t.co/LdwpwmmaEB">pic.twitter.com/LdwpwmmaEB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1071671559775936512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"We don’t need any alliance, we will form the Government on our own. We are confident that we will win enough seats," he added.&nbsp;

The final voter turnout in Friday's Assembly polls in Telangana was recorded at 73.20 per cent.

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We don’t need any alliance, we will form the Government on our own. We are confident that we will win enough seats: Bhanu Prasad,TRS Spokesperson <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TelanganaElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TelanganaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/jYL2jdQTwO">https://t.co/jYL2jdQTwO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1071702147853627393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Polling concluded in the poll-bound state on Friday evening. According to reports, the interim voter turnout recorded in Telangana on Friday was reported at around 67 per cent.&nbsp;

Vote was taken for all the 119 seats of Telangana assembly for the first time after the division of Andhra Pradesh and creation of India's youngest state in 2014.

Final results for both the states will be out after the counting of votes concludes on December 11.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Telangana BJP Chief, K Laxman, on Sunday hinted at the possibility of an alliance in the state noting that in the absence of a clear mandate the party will be a part of the government.

Telangana BJP Chief, K Laxman, on Sunday hinted at the possibility of an alliance in the state noting that in the absence of a clear mandate the party will be a part of the government. "We’ll not support Congress or AIMIM, but other options are open. The decision will be taken in consultation with our high command," he added. Meanwhile, Telangana Rashtra Samiti spokesperson Bhanu Prasad said that the party doesn't need an alliance. K Laxman, Telangana BJP Chief: There can't be a govt without BJP in Telangana. In case people have not given a clear mandate we’ll be a part of govt. We’ll not support Congress or AIMIM, but other options are open. The decision will be taken in consultation with our high command. pic.twitter.com/LdwpwmmaEB — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2018 × "We don’t need any alliance, we will form the Government on our own. We are confident that we will win enough seats," he added. The final voter turnout in Friday's Assembly polls in Telangana was recorded at 73.20 per cent. We don’t need any alliance, we will form the Government on our own. We are confident that we will win enough seats: Bhanu Prasad,TRS Spokesperson #TelanganaElections2018 https://t.co/jYL2jdQTwO — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2018 × Polling concluded in the poll-bound state on Friday evening. According to reports, the interim voter turnout recorded in Telangana on Friday was reported at around 67 per cent. Vote was taken for all the 119 seats of Telangana assembly for the first time after the division of Andhra Pradesh and creation of India's youngest state in 2014. Final results for both the states will be out after the counting of votes concludes on December 11.

Won't support Congress or AIMIM, other options are open: Telangana BJP chief

Former Union Minister and Congress leader Jitin Prasad on Saturday said that Congress party will reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products if it comes to power in Telangana.&nbsp;

Outlining that he has previously served as petroleum minister in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, Prasad while addressing the media said, "The crude oil prices internationally have reached the rock bottom during the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government but the petroleum prices have reached highest ever since Independence in the BJP government. During the Congress government, the petrol prices were lower as compared to the present prices in the country. Congress ensured that the upstream companies of oil and the Finance Ministry reduced the burden on the common man and did not let oil prices go beyond a certain point. But the central government doesn't believe in all that. The state government in Telangana has earned huge money by collecting VAT prices on petrol."

He also attacked the state government for charging high VAT on petroleum products and said that Congress will reduce the same, "The state government under Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) is charging the highest VAT charges on petroleum. The VAT charges in Karnataka, where &nbsp;Congress is in power are very less compared to Telangana. The burden should be reduced on common man but it has been increased by the TRS government."

He also alleged that caretaker Chief Minister of Telangana, K Chandrashekar Rao is anti-farmer and has not done enough to improve literacy rates of the state.&nbsp;

Former Union Minister and Congress leader Jitin Prasad on Saturday said that Congress party will reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products if it comes to power in Telangana.

Former Union Minister and Congress leader Jitin Prasad on Saturday said that Congress party will reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products if it comes to power in Telangana. Outlining that he has previously served as petroleum minister in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, Prasad while addressing the media said, "The crude oil prices internationally have reached the rock bottom during the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government but the petroleum prices have reached highest ever since Independence in the BJP government. During the Congress government, the petrol prices were lower as compared to the present prices in the country. Congress ensured that the upstream companies of oil and the Finance Ministry reduced the burden on the common man and did not let oil prices go beyond a certain point. But the central government doesn't believe in all that. The state government in Telangana has earned huge money by collecting VAT prices on petrol." He also attacked the state government for charging high VAT on petroleum products and said that Congress will reduce the same, "The state government under Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) is charging the highest VAT charges on petroleum. The VAT charges in Karnataka, where Congress is in power are very less compared to Telangana. The burden should be reduced on common man but it has been increased by the TRS government." He also alleged that caretaker Chief Minister of Telangana, K Chandrashekar Rao is anti-farmer and has not done enough to improve literacy rates of the state.

Congress will reduce VAT if voted to power in Telangana: Jitin Prasad

Campaigning for the December 7 Rajasthan Assembly polls intensified Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati addressing a total of 17 public meetings in the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders attacked the Congress with PM Modi leading from the front, slamming the opposition party over its stand on terrorism, Naxalism and tribal development among others, while Gandhi said farm loans would be waived if the Congress formed the government in the state and asked his party workers not to use any bad word against the prime minister and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

While the prime minister was in Bhilwara, Dungarpur and Kota, Gandhi visited the Ajmer dargah and Pushkar, before addressing rallies at Pokhran (in Jaisalmer district), Jalore and Jodhpur. 
Adityanath addressed five rallies in Nagaur, Sikar, Churu, Bikaner and Jaisalmer districts.

Rajnath Singh took part in two rallies at Dholpur and as many in Jaipur district, while Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati addressed rallies at Jhunjhunu and Jaipur.

Both Gandhi and Adityanath addressed meetings in support of the candidates of their respective parties in the Pokhran constituency, whereas Mayawati and Rajnath Singh held separate rallies in the Amber constituency in Jaipur.

Highlighting the importance of every single vote, both PM Modi and Gandhi exuded confidence that their respective parties will form the government in the state after December 7.

At the Kota rally, the prime minister said, "Your votes will empower PM Modi. Your votes will bring changes in the country."

"Broadband network reached one lakh villages, 2.5 to 3 lakh kms of optical-fibre line was laid, 12 crore LPG connections, better roads were given in four-and-a-half years of the BJP government at the Centre. Your one vote has provided speed to the country. It has the power to change the country and shape its future," he said.

PM Modi alleged that the Congress had no issues and therefore, was making casteist remarks. Rajnath Singh and Adityanath also targeted Gandhi.

At Ratangarh, Adityanath said the Congress chief was the guarantee of defeat for his party's candidates.

"No Congress candidate wants Rahul Gandhi in his constituency because Gandhi means defeat," he said.

On the other hand, the Congress president said farm loans would be waived within 10 days if his party formed the government in the state.

He also said PM Modi and Raje were left with no issues as they had made false promises and broke people's trust, adding that now they were spreading hatred and anger.

Gandhi, who visited the Ajmer dargah and the Pushkar lake before addressing the rallies, said the Congress government would restart the free medicines scheme and put public money in improving the infrastructure in hospitals, schools and disbursing loans to the youth.

He also cornered the prime minister on the issues of the Rafale deal, demonetisation, favouring top industrialists and the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

State Congress chief Sachin Pilot, who is contesting the upcoming polls from Tonk, and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, the party's candidate from Jodhpur's Sardarpura constituency, accompanied Gandhi at the rallies.

Mayawati, on the other hand, termed both the BJP and Congress "anti-Dalit and anti-poor" and alleged that the two parties wanted to abolish reservation in government jobs. She addressed two rallies in Jhunjhunu and in Jaipur district.

The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will go to the polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

Campaigning for the December 7 Rajasthan Assembly polls intensified Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati addressing a total of 17 public meetings in the state.

Campaigning for the December 7 Rajasthan Assembly polls intensified Monday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati addressing a total of 17 public meetings in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders attacked the Congress with PM Modi leading from the front, slamming the opposition party over its stand on terrorism, Naxalism and tribal development among others, while Gandhi said farm loans would be waived if the Congress formed the government in the state and asked his party workers not to use any bad word against the prime minister and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. While the prime minister was in Bhilwara, Dungarpur and Kota, Gandhi visited the Ajmer dargah and Pushkar, before addressing rallies at Pokhran (in Jaisalmer district), Jalore and Jodhpur. Adityanath addressed five rallies in Nagaur, Sikar, Churu, Bikaner and Jaisalmer districts. Rajnath Singh took part in two rallies at Dholpur and as many in Jaipur district, while Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati addressed rallies at Jhunjhunu and Jaipur. Both Gandhi and Adityanath addressed meetings in support of the candidates of their respective parties in the Pokhran constituency, whereas Mayawati and Rajnath Singh held separate rallies in the Amber constituency in Jaipur. Highlighting the importance of every single vote, both PM Modi and Gandhi exuded confidence that their respective parties will form the government in the state after December 7. At the Kota rally, the prime minister said, "Your votes will empower PM Modi. Your votes will bring changes in the country." "Broadband network reached one lakh villages, 2.5 to 3 lakh kms of optical-fibre line was laid, 12 crore LPG connections, better roads were given in four-and-a-half years of the BJP government at the Centre. Your one vote has provided speed to the country. It has the power to change the country and shape its future," he said. PM Modi alleged that the Congress had no issues and therefore, was making casteist remarks. Rajnath Singh and Adityanath also targeted Gandhi. At Ratangarh, Adityanath said the Congress chief was the guarantee of defeat for his party's candidates. "No Congress candidate wants Rahul Gandhi in his constituency because Gandhi means defeat," he said. On the other hand, the Congress president said farm loans would be waived within 10 days if his party formed the government in the state. He also said PM Modi and Raje were left with no issues as they had made false promises and broke people's trust, adding that now they were spreading hatred and anger. Gandhi, who visited the Ajmer dargah and the Pushkar lake before addressing the rallies, said the Congress government would restart the free medicines scheme and put public money in improving the infrastructure in hospitals, schools and disbursing loans to the youth. He also cornered the prime minister on the issues of the Rafale deal, demonetisation, favouring top industrialists and the Goods and Services Tax (GST). State Congress chief Sachin Pilot, who is contesting the upcoming polls from Tonk, and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, the party's candidate from Jodhpur's Sardarpura constituency, accompanied Gandhi at the rallies. Mayawati, on the other hand, termed both the BJP and Congress "anti-Dalit and anti-poor" and alleged that the two parties wanted to abolish reservation in government jobs. She addressed two rallies in Jhunjhunu and in Jaipur district. The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will go to the polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Campaigning for polls gathers steam in Rajasthan

Going all out to woo farmers and the youth in poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Monday promised to waive farm loans within 10 days if his party was voted to power in the state and said the Congress chief minister would work 18 hours a day to help youngsters get jobs.

Speaking at election rallies in different parts of the state, he also described the Congress workers as "sher" (tiger) and "babbar sher" (lion) and said they had to fight at the polling booth, but gently, unlike the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers.

Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, Gandhi, who began his day by visiting the Ajmer dargah, the Pushkar lake and the Brahma temple, said the two leaders had become arrogant after winning elections, did not hear the voice of the people, made false promises and broke people's trust, adding that now they were left with nothing and therefore, spreading hatred and anger.

"You (people) are going to make the Congress party's government in the state. Within 10 days of government formation, the Congress will waive farm loans in the state. You can call and ask any farmer in Punjab and Karnataka, where I made the same promise and our governments fulfilled that," he said, addressing the first rally in Jaisalmer's Pokhran area.

Gandhi asserted that he and other Congress leaders like Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot will speak the truth and make promises only if they could fulfil those.

"The bond between you and me should be that of transparency. Many things can be done by being truthful," he said.

"The chief minister of the Congress will work for 18 hours a day and will be engaged in getting the youth jobs. We will put public money in improving the facilities in government hospitals, schools and setting up universities. The vacant posts will be filled and the youth will be given loans to start their own business, factories," he said, while alleging that the Modi government only worked for the top 15 industrialists in the country.

Gandhi said the free medicines scheme introduced by the previous Congress government in the state will be restarted after his party formed the government.

He also attacked the prime minister over the Rafale deal, demonetisation, GST and other issues.

Gandhi said when demonetisation destroyed the informal sector, those who had to stand in queues in front of banks were farmers, labourers, small-scale businessmen etc., but those who had black money got it changed to white in the air-conditioned chambers of the banks with the help of Modi.

He said Modi was left with nothing to speak and thus, he was lying, but the people had understood him well.

Gandhi also accused the prime minister of insulting the youth, farmers, labourers of the country as well as their parents and grandparents with his statement from the Red Fort that the "elephant was sleeping".

"He meant that the country was sleeping before he became the prime minister. This is an insult to your parents and grandparents, who put their efforts and labour and contributed in taking the country to the present stage," he said in Jodhpur.

Targeting Raje, Gandhi said in an advertisement, she had talked about a school in Bharatpur and said it had fans, furniture, drinking water, playground etc., but when journalists went there, they found that the school had nothing -- no fan, no drinking water.

The Congress chief told the party workers not to speak ill about the prime minister or the chief minister.

"You are the soldiers of the Congress and not RSS or BJP workers. Fight with manners. Do not use any bad word for anyone, be it the PM or the CM. It is their work to abuse, not ours. We will speak good of them," he said.

"You hear their speeches and compare with ours. Listen to the way Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot are addressing them. They are addressing them as Modiji, Vasundharaji with manners. On the other hand, they are spreading hatred and anger," Gandhi said.

In Jalore, the Congress chief said the December 7 Assembly election was a fight for the future of the people of Rajasthan.

"This is the fight for your future. You will not get false promises from this stage," he said.

"They (BJP) took people's money and gave it to the top 15 industrialists, which should have gone to hospitals, schools, for employment etc. Tell me one thing, why all these names are Modi -- Neerav Modi, Lalit Modi, Narendra Modi -- all are one. Wherever you see, they are the same names. Someone took Rs 10,000 crore, someone Rs 35,000 crore and one gave Rs 30,000 crore to his friend," Gandhi alleged. He also raised questions on the bullet train project.

Gandhi also accused the BJP of practising divisive politics by alleging that Modi had created two India -- one for the rich and the other for the poor -- and added that the Congress wanted one India.

Gandhi began his election meetings after offering prayers at the Ajmer dargah, the Pushkar lake and the Brahma temple.

He presented a "chadar", along with state Congress chief Pilot and former chief minister Gehlot, at the dargah, where the traditional "khadim" of his family made him perform the "ziyarat".

Gandhi was honoured by the president of the Anjuman committee, Moin Chisty. The Nazim of the Dargah committee, Shakil Ahmed, also honoured the Congress chief.

Gandhi then visited the Pushkar sarovar and the Brahma temple and offered prayers there.

Going all out to woo farmers and the youth in poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Monday promised to waive farm loans within 10 days if his party was voted to power in the state and said the Congress chief minister would work 18 hours a day to help youngsters get jobs.

Going all out to woo farmers and the youth in poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Monday promised to waive farm loans within 10 days if his party was voted to power in the state and said the Congress chief minister would work 18 hours a day to help youngsters get jobs. Speaking at election rallies in different parts of the state, he also described the Congress workers as "sher" (tiger) and "babbar sher" (lion) and said they had to fight at the polling booth, but gently, unlike the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers. Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, Gandhi, who began his day by visiting the Ajmer dargah, the Pushkar lake and the Brahma temple, said the two leaders had become arrogant after winning elections, did not hear the voice of the people, made false promises and broke people's trust, adding that now they were left with nothing and therefore, spreading hatred and anger. "You (people) are going to make the Congress party's government in the state. Within 10 days of government formation, the Congress will waive farm loans in the state. You can call and ask any farmer in Punjab and Karnataka, where I made the same promise and our governments fulfilled that," he said, addressing the first rally in Jaisalmer's Pokhran area. Gandhi asserted that he and other Congress leaders like Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot will speak the truth and make promises only if they could fulfil those. "The bond between you and me should be that of transparency. Many things can be done by being truthful," he said. "The chief minister of the Congress will work for 18 hours a day and will be engaged in getting the youth jobs. We will put public money in improving the facilities in government hospitals, schools and setting up universities. The vacant posts will be filled and the youth will be given loans to start their own business, factories," he said, while alleging that the Modi government only worked for the top 15 industrialists in the country. Gandhi said the free medicines scheme introduced by the previous Congress government in the state will be restarted after his party formed the government. He also attacked the prime minister over the Rafale deal, demonetisation, GST and other issues. Gandhi said when demonetisation destroyed the informal sector, those who had to stand in queues in front of banks were farmers, labourers, small-scale businessmen etc., but those who had black money got it changed to white in the air-conditioned chambers of the banks with the help of Modi. He said Modi was left with nothing to speak and thus, he was lying, but the people had understood him well. Gandhi also accused the prime minister of insulting the youth, farmers, labourers of the country as well as their parents and grandparents with his statement from the Red Fort that the "elephant was sleeping". "He meant that the country was sleeping before he became the prime minister. This is an insult to your parents and grandparents, who put their efforts and labour and contributed in taking the country to the present stage," he said in Jodhpur. Targeting Raje, Gandhi said in an advertisement, she had talked about a school in Bharatpur and said it had fans, furniture, drinking water, playground etc., but when journalists went there, they found that the school had nothing -- no fan, no drinking water. The Congress chief told the party workers not to speak ill about the prime minister or the chief minister. "You are the soldiers of the Congress and not RSS or BJP workers. Fight with manners. Do not use any bad word for anyone, be it the PM or the CM. It is their work to abuse, not ours. We will speak good of them," he said. "You hear their speeches and compare with ours. Listen to the way Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot are addressing them. They are addressing them as Modiji, Vasundharaji with manners. On the other hand, they are spreading hatred and anger," Gandhi said. In Jalore, the Congress chief said the December 7 Assembly election was a fight for the future of the people of Rajasthan. "This is the fight for your future. You will not get false promises from this stage," he said. "They (BJP) took people's money and gave it to the top 15 industrialists, which should have gone to hospitals, schools, for employment etc. Tell me one thing, why all these names are Modi -- Neerav Modi, Lalit Modi, Narendra Modi -- all are one. Wherever you see, they are the same names. Someone took Rs 10,000 crore, someone Rs 35,000 crore and one gave Rs 30,000 crore to his friend," Gandhi alleged. He also raised questions on the bullet train project. Gandhi also accused the BJP of practising divisive politics by alleging that Modi had created two India -- one for the rich and the other for the poor -- and added that the Congress wanted one India. Gandhi began his election meetings after offering prayers at the Ajmer dargah, the Pushkar lake and the Brahma temple. He presented a "chadar", along with state Congress chief Pilot and former chief minister Gehlot, at the dargah, where the traditional "khadim" of his family made him perform the "ziyarat". Gandhi was honoured by the president of the Anjuman committee, Moin Chisty. The Nazim of the Dargah committee, Shakil Ahmed, also honoured the Congress chief. Gandhi then visited the Pushkar sarovar and the Brahma temple and offered prayers there.

Rahul promises farm loan waiver, jobs to youth in Rajasthan

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi-led Congress, saying that the day the Congress announces their chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan, it will have a breakdown.

"Kyunki jis din neta ke naam ki ghosna kar denge yahan par Congress party khand khand ho jayegi," Singh stated during a rally in poll-bound Rajasthan's Dholpur.&nbsp;

He further added that the Congress is not able to muster the courage to announce the name of their leader or the chief ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

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Kyunki jis din neta ke naam ki ghosna kar denge yahan par Congress party khand khand ho jayegi. Sahas nahi juta pa rahe hai ki woh apne neta ya mukhya mantri ki ghosna kar de. Yani baarat to unhone nikal di lekin dulhe ka koi pata nahi hai: Home Minister Rajnath Singh (26.11) <a href="https://t.co/ABFSPW9wSF">pic.twitter.com/ABFSPW9wSF</a>
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"The Congress has entered into the electoral battle, but they can't answer if you ask them about their leader," he said.

The Congress has many chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, former CM Ashok Gehlot and young leader Sachin Pilot are in the fight for the top office. The BJP was quick to announce Vasundhara Raje as its leader and chief ministerial candidate for the state much ahead of this year's election season.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-runs-government-comparatively-better-than-congress-rajnath-singh-in-madhya-pradesh-178639">Last week, Rajnath Singh claimed</a> that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi-led Congress, saying that the day the Congress announces their chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan, it will have a breakdown.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi-led Congress, saying that the day the Congress announces their chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan, it will have a breakdown. "Kyunki jis din neta ke naam ki ghosna kar denge yahan par Congress party khand khand ho jayegi," Singh stated during a rally in poll-bound Rajasthan's Dholpur. He further added that the Congress is not able to muster the courage to announce the name of their leader or the chief ministerial candidate. Kyunki jis din neta ke naam ki ghosna kar denge yahan par Congress party khand khand ho jayegi. Sahas nahi juta pa rahe hai ki woh apne neta ya mukhya mantri ki ghosna kar de. Yani baarat to unhone nikal di lekin dulhe ka koi pata nahi hai: Home Minister Rajnath Singh (26.11) pic.twitter.com/ABFSPW9wSF — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2018 × "The Congress has entered into the electoral battle, but they can't answer if you ask them about their leader," he said. The Congress has many chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, former CM Ashok Gehlot and young leader Sachin Pilot are in the fight for the top office. The BJP was quick to announce Vasundhara Raje as its leader and chief ministerial candidate for the state much ahead of this year's election season. Last week, Rajnath Singh claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence. Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it.

Congress will have a breakdown once it announces CM candidate for Rajasthan: Rajnath Singh 

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday released its manifesto for poll-bound state Rajasthan. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley released the script of party's agenda for the state if it comes to power this December. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar and incumbent Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje were also present on the occasion.&nbsp;

The party leaders said that the BJP had met 95 per cent of the promises it had made in 2013.&nbsp;

"The overall completion is 95 per cent," Raje said.

She also highlighted several points of the 2018 manifesto, saying 50 lakh jobs will be created in private sector in next five years in Rajasthan and every year, 30,000 jobs will be given in the government sector, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The chief minister also said up to Rs 5,000 per month will be given as unemployment allowance to eligible youths above the age of 21 years.

The saffron party in its manifesto for Madhya Pradesh promised 10 lakh jobs per year to youths and welfare of all sections of society, among the other major promises made for the November 28.

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For Chhattisgarh, the party, in its manifesto, promised to build a film city in the state and journalist welfare board. BJP chief Amit Shah also assured that the BJP government will provide loans up to 2 lakh without interest to women for starting their business in Chattisgarh.&nbsp;

Rajasthan is set to go to polls on December, the votes will counted on December 11.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje is set to challenge&nbsp;anti-incumbency, she is BJP's chief ministerial candidate this term as well. Congress, on the other hand, &nbsp;has many chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, former CM Ashok Gehlot and young leader Sachin Pilot are in the fight for the top office.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday released its manifesto for poll-bound state Rajasthan. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley released the script of party's agenda for the state if it comes to power this December.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday released its manifesto for poll-bound state Rajasthan. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley released the script of party's agenda for the state if it comes to power this December. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar and incumbent Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje were also present on the occasion. The party leaders said that the BJP had met 95 per cent of the promises it had made in 2013. "The overall completion is 95 per cent," Raje said. She also highlighted several points of the 2018 manifesto, saying 50 lakh jobs will be created in private sector in next five years in Rajasthan and every year, 30,000 jobs will be given in the government sector, news agency PTI reported. The chief minister also said up to Rs 5,000 per month will be given as unemployment allowance to eligible youths above the age of 21 years. The saffron party in its manifesto for Madhya Pradesh promised 10 lakh jobs per year to youths and welfare of all sections of society, among the other major promises made for the November 28. Jaipur: BJP releases party manifesto for #RajasthanElections2018 pic.twitter.com/ZA0x4ZmepO — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2018 × For Chhattisgarh, the party, in its manifesto, promised to build a film city in the state and journalist welfare board. BJP chief Amit Shah also assured that the BJP government will provide loans up to 2 lakh without interest to women for starting their business in Chattisgarh. Rajasthan is set to go to polls on December, the votes will counted on December 11. Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje is set to challenge anti-incumbency, she is BJP's chief ministerial candidate this term as well. Congress, on the other hand, has many chief ministerial aspirants in Rajasthan, former CM Ashok Gehlot and young leader Sachin Pilot are in the fight for the top office.

Rajasthan polls: BJP releases manifesto, promises 50 lakh jobs in private sector

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters.

Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning.

Singh is polishing shoes of people ahead of Madhya Pradesh Elections and says that he will make use of his unique election symbol to turn it into a blessing.

Singh told ANI, ''It was a free poll symbol that no one was willing to take. We took it and we will turn it into a blessing".

Singh's is not alone in his style of campaigning is somewhat similar to another out of box campaigning of an independent candidate fighting elections in Telangana assembly polls.

Akula Hanumanth, an independent candidate from Korutla constituency of Jagtial district has been distributing slippers and a signed slip to citizens, asking them to hit him with the same if he doesn't fulfil their expectations after winning.

The state of will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11.

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters. Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning.

Ahead of the assembly elections in the state, politicians from all different political parties are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters. Sharad Singh Kumar, of Rashtriya Aamjan Party contesting on the election symbol of a shoe has garnered attention owing to his unique style of campaigning. Singh is polishing shoes of people ahead of Madhya Pradesh Elections and says that he will make use of his unique election symbol to turn it into a blessing. Singh told ANI, ''It was a free poll symbol that no one was willing to take. We took it and we will turn it into a blessing". Singh's is not alone in his style of campaigning is somewhat similar to another out of box campaigning of an independent candidate fighting elections in Telangana assembly polls. Akula Hanumanth, an independent candidate from Korutla constituency of Jagtial district has been distributing slippers and a signed slip to citizens, asking them to hit him with the same if he doesn't fulfil their expectations after winning. The state of will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11.

MP polls: This candidate is polishing shoes to please voters

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28.

Sharing details of the poll preparedness in the state, Rao while addressing a press conference here said, "In law and order front, 85% of Madhya Pradesh state police personnel have been drafted in election duty and 90% home guard have been involved in election work. If we combine state police, constables and home guards about 80, 000 security personnel from states are being deployed for election duty. Apart from these one lakh more security personnel including 650 companies of Central para-military forces will be on election duty in the state."

He also informed that inter-state checkpoints of the state have been sealed and campaign vehicles have been prohibited from entering the state.

He further said, "As of now around 72 hours are left for polling exercise to culminate in the state. Warehouse, distillery, brewery and bottling plants in the state have been forbidden to bring out any supplies of liquor. From other states, no supply of liquor will be allowed to come in the boundaries of the state. From 5 PM onwards on 25th November, 456 inter-state check-points have been sealed and all political or campaign-related vehicles have been prohibited from entering through these points. Our 1770 teams of flying squads and surveillance personnel have been made operational in the state for next 72 hours."

He also asserted that in terms of the vehicular moment, the poll body had prohibited the formation of a convoy of more than 10 vehicles. The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect its 230 members of legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28.

Chief Electoral Officer, Madhya Pradesh, VL Kantha Rao on Sunday informed that 1,80,000 security personnel including officers of state police, Central para-military forces and home guards will be deployed in the state of Madhya Pradesh ahead of assembly elections due for November 28. Sharing details of the poll preparedness in the state, Rao while addressing a press conference here said, "In law and order front, 85% of Madhya Pradesh state police personnel have been drafted in election duty and 90% home guard have been involved in election work. If we combine state police, constables and home guards about 80, 000 security personnel from states are being deployed for election duty. Apart from these one lakh more security personnel including 650 companies of Central para-military forces will be on election duty in the state." He also informed that inter-state checkpoints of the state have been sealed and campaign vehicles have been prohibited from entering the state. He further said, "As of now around 72 hours are left for polling exercise to culminate in the state. Warehouse, distillery, brewery and bottling plants in the state have been forbidden to bring out any supplies of liquor. From other states, no supply of liquor will be allowed to come in the boundaries of the state. From 5 PM onwards on 25th November, 456 inter-state check-points have been sealed and all political or campaign-related vehicles have been prohibited from entering through these points. Our 1770 teams of flying squads and surveillance personnel have been made operational in the state for next 72 hours." He also asserted that in terms of the vehicular moment, the poll body had prohibited the formation of a convoy of more than 10 vehicles. The state will go to polls on November 28 to elect its 230 members of legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

180,000 security personnel deployed, state borders sealed ahead of MP polls

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state.

Addressing an election campaign rally, Chouhan said, "It is Congress party which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh. Congress is now running a campaign that there is anger. I want to ask people if they are angry with me. It is not people but the Congress which is furious at me."

"They are furious because they gave me potholed filled state and I constructed 1.5 lakh kilometres of excellent roads and gave it to the public. Congress is furious because they had made Madhya Pradesh a state of darkness and we provided excellent power supply to the public. They are worried hence making allegations," he added.

Later addressing a public rally at Dewas, he made promises of bearing the higher education expenses of students and providing two-wheelers to the girls achieving good marks, "My government is resolved to bear the higher education expenses of students of the state who score good marks. The daughters of this state who get 75% marks in the 12th standard will be provided with a scooty by the government."

He also invoked his humble background during the rally and said that the Congress is not able to tolerate that the son of a farmer is sitting on the chair of the chief minister for last many years.

Chouhan also addressed another political rally in Ujjain district and said, "Congress since the time of Indira Gandhi has been saying that they will remove poverty but did not do anything in this regard. However I assure you by the year 2022, no poor person will live in a mud house and we will provide affordable housing for all."

Intensifying his poll campaign, Shivraj also addressed different political rallies in Khargone, Agar Malwa and Jaora and asserted that he will continue to work for public welfare and development of the state, without any discrimination.

The state will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will look to extend its 15-year rule in the state, the Congress is in a bid to regain power in Madhya Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress party and said that it is the Congress which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh and is now furious at him because he developed the state. Addressing an election campaign rally, Chouhan said, "It is Congress party which is responsible for the destruction of Madhya Pradesh. Congress is now running a campaign that there is anger. I want to ask people if they are angry with me. It is not people but the Congress which is furious at me." "They are furious because they gave me potholed filled state and I constructed 1.5 lakh kilometres of excellent roads and gave it to the public. Congress is furious because they had made Madhya Pradesh a state of darkness and we provided excellent power supply to the public. They are worried hence making allegations," he added. Later addressing a public rally at Dewas, he made promises of bearing the higher education expenses of students and providing two-wheelers to the girls achieving good marks, "My government is resolved to bear the higher education expenses of students of the state who score good marks. The daughters of this state who get 75% marks in the 12th standard will be provided with a scooty by the government." He also invoked his humble background during the rally and said that the Congress is not able to tolerate that the son of a farmer is sitting on the chair of the chief minister for last many years. Chouhan also addressed another political rally in Ujjain district and said, "Congress since the time of Indira Gandhi has been saying that they will remove poverty but did not do anything in this regard. However I assure you by the year 2022, no poor person will live in a mud house and we will provide affordable housing for all." Intensifying his poll campaign, Shivraj also addressed different political rallies in Khargone, Agar Malwa and Jaora and asserted that he will continue to work for public welfare and development of the state, without any discrimination. The state will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will look to extend its 15-year rule in the state, the Congress is in a bid to regain power in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress angry because I developed the state they destroyed: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata".

Raje said that the Congress leaders only respect United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and no one else.

Further slamming Gandhi, the Rajasthan Chief Minister said that the Congress party worked for eliminating poor but has done nothing to remove poverty.

"For 50 years they reiterated the slogan of `Garibi Hatao` but have done nothing for it rather they eliminated poor," she said.

"You all have no problem in saying Bharat Mata ki Jai but Congress people do have a problem in saying it. It`s because they only consider Sonia Gandhi as their mother and have no regard for Bharat Mata," she said.

She also underscored that the Congress had only created the divide in the society in the name of religion and caste.

"What Congress did was to pitch people against each other in name of religion, caste, and whatnot. Congress did the politics of divide and rule," she said.

Assembly polls in Rajasthan are slated for December 7 and over 2,000 candidates are in the fray.&nbsp;

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata".

While addressing an election rally in the poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief-Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia targeted the Congress party saying that Congress leaders have a problem in eulogizing "Bharat Mata". Raje said that the Congress leaders only respect United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and no one else. Further slamming Gandhi, the Rajasthan Chief Minister said that the Congress party worked for eliminating poor but has done nothing to remove poverty. "For 50 years they reiterated the slogan of `Garibi Hatao` but have done nothing for it rather they eliminated poor," she said. "You all have no problem in saying Bharat Mata ki Jai but Congress people do have a problem in saying it. It`s because they only consider Sonia Gandhi as their mother and have no regard for Bharat Mata," she said. She also underscored that the Congress had only created the divide in the society in the name of religion and caste. "What Congress did was to pitch people against each other in name of religion, caste, and whatnot. Congress did the politics of divide and rule," she said. Assembly polls in Rajasthan are slated for December 7 and over 2,000 candidates are in the fray.

Congress leaders have no regard for 'Bharat Mata': Rajasthan CM Raje

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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71.93% voter turnout recorded till 6 PM in the second phase of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections</a>. Voting still underway at the polling booths where voters are in the queue <a href="https://t.co/HhuyrW3e3x">pic.twitter.com/HhuyrW3e3x</a>
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According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout</a>. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.&nbsp;

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election.

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election. As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. 71.93% voter turnout recorded till 6 PM in the second phase of #ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections. Voting still underway at the polling booths where voters are in the queue pic.twitter.com/HhuyrW3e3x — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm. Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll. The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.

Chhattisgarh assembly elections: Over 72% voter turnout recorded in 2nd phase

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday.

This ends speculation over whether the Andhra Pradesh chief minister would join Gandhi at her public meeting in Medchal after the two parties, along with others, forged an alliance for the upcoming Telangana Assembly polls.

Last month, the Congress forged the alliance, 'Prajakutami' (People's Alliance), with the TDP, the Telangana Jana Samithi and the Communist Party of India to take on the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) in the December 7 elections.

But Naidu would campaign with Congress president Rahul Gandhi at some places during the latter's visit to the state on November 28 and 29 and December 3, Khuntia told PTI.

"Not all but (at) some meetings (Naidu and Rahul Gandhi will share stage)," he said.

Khuntia said the Congress is planning to release its election manifesto on November 23.

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday.

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday. This ends speculation over whether the Andhra Pradesh chief minister would join Gandhi at her public meeting in Medchal after the two parties, along with others, forged an alliance for the upcoming Telangana Assembly polls. Last month, the Congress forged the alliance, 'Prajakutami' (People's Alliance), with the TDP, the Telangana Jana Samithi and the Communist Party of India to take on the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) in the December 7 elections. But Naidu would campaign with Congress president Rahul Gandhi at some places during the latter's visit to the state on November 28 and 29 and December 3, Khuntia told PTI. "Not all but (at) some meetings (Naidu and Rahul Gandhi will share stage)," he said. Khuntia said the Congress is planning to release its election manifesto on November 23.

Chandrababu Naidu will not share stage with Sonia at Telangana rally: Congress

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it.

He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row.

"Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here.

"I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions.

"I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said.

To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations."

"It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said.

The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal.

Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait."

On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)."

Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy.

"The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said.

The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market.

He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Wednesday claimed that the BJP has run the government "comparatively better" than the Congress and blamed the opposition party for a "credibility crisis" in politics after Independence. Talking to reporters in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Singh asserted that the country was currently witnessing "acche din" (good days) and it was a matter of perception of how people saw it. He also defended the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre over the Rafale jet deal row. "Indian economy is the fastest growing economy in the world due to the charismatic work of our prime minister (Narendra Modi). India (people) has accepted that BJP is a political party which runs the government comparatively better than the Congress," Singh told reporters here. "I said comparatively... No political party is perfect, neither are we, I never made such a claim. All political parties have shortcomings. But this (BJP) is a political party which works better, comparatively," he asserted. In a stinging attack on the Congress, he accused it of creating a "credibility crisis" in the country, saying there was a difference between the party's words and actions. "I believe that in the history of independent India, the politics of Congress has created a credibility crisis about country's politicians and politics as a whole. This credibility crisis was created due to the difference between words and deeds (of politicians)," Singh said. To a question on the Rafale deal controversy, he said, "Rafale is Ra-fail. Dassault CEO has already clarified. One can see the reality of these allegations." "It was alleged that the contract of Rs 30,000 crore was being allotted to one offset partner (of Dassault). But, the truth is that the contract is meant for all offset partners and not for one," he said. The government had earlier denied allegations of corruption in the deal. Asked about the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, Singh said, "(I think) You are familiar with the development on this issue. I can only say, wait." On the BJP's promise of bringing "acche din", he said, "Yahi hain acche din, prashna nazariye ka hai (these are the good days, it is a matter of perception)." Asked about demonetisation, Singh claimed that the government's decision brought transparency into the economy. "The generation of black money has been stopped. The black money that existed (at the time demonetisation) reached the banks," he said. The Union minister also claimed that the petrol and diesel prices were going down as the rates depending on crude oil price in the international market. He refused to comment on the controversies plaguing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying the matter was sub-judice. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

BJP runs government 'comparatively better' than Congress: Rajnath Singh in Madhya Pradesh

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday.

She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP.

She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties.

Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation.

She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation.

She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices.

The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists.

She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality.

She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented.

She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress.

Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.&nbsp;

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off.

BSP supremo Mayawati Tuesday accused the Congress of conspiring against her party by offering it less seats leading to the alliance between the two parties for the Madhya Pradesh polls not taking off. The state is scheduled to go to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "The Congress is on weak ground in Madhya Pradesh. That is why it had proposed an alliance with the BSP in the state. (But) under a planned strategy and conspiracy, the Congress wanted to finish off the BSP and offered (it) very low number of seats (in the alliance)," Mayawati said Tuesday. She added that the Bahujan Samaj Party had a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, MP and several other states, and after being offered less seats (by the Congress), her party decided to go it alone in MP. She did not specify the number of seats the Congress had offered the BSP for MP polls. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister was addressing a rally at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here. She said a desperate and nervous Congress was now accusing the BSP for the failure to cement an alliance between the two parties. Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati claimed people, as well as traders, were unhappy with the way GST and demonetisation were implemented without prior preparation. She said the two exercises had affected the country's economy, and further poor fiscal policies of the Centre had led to a spike in poverty, unemployment and inflation. She also lashed out at the Centre for skyrocketing fuel prices. The BSP supremo accused both the BJP and Congress of ignoring the poor and making policies benefiting capitalists. She said that reservations, which were given to people due to the efforts of B R Ambedkar, was being gradually eliminated by parties having a "casteist" mentality. She accused the Congress and the BJP of being responsible for the Mandal Commission report not being implemented. She pointed out that Ambedkar was bestowed Bharat Ratna (posthumously in 1990) by the government of Prime Minister VP Singh and not by the Congress. Earlier in the day, Mayawati addressed another election rally in Balaghat.

Madhya Pradesh: Congress offered less seats to BSP, Mayawati on failed alliance bid

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

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64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/3MlWJZbQCX">pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX</a>
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As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent</a> voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. 64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of #ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm. Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll. The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.

Chhattisgarh assembly polls: Over 60% voter turnout recorded till 5pm 

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

Addressing a rally for the second phase of polling in the state, Gandhi said it was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals.

"But, people have remained poor due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government," he charged.

Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics.

He claimed that lands of locals in this part of the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned to the people.

"The Congress will install a people's government in the state which will empower farmers, small and medium businesses and provide employment to the youth," Gandhi said.

He said if the Congress came to power in the state, it would enforce the Land Acquisition Act and facilitate loan waiver for farmers, besides providing them bonus and Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops.

Accusing the Raman Singh government of being involved in graft, Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not uttered a word about corruption in Chhattisgarh. "People of the state have suffered because of this," he alleged.

"I do politics for the rights of poor, farmers and youth. I will not protect 10-15 industrialists at their cost," he said.

Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11. PTI T

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule. Addressing a rally for the second phase of polling in the state, Gandhi said it was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals. "But, people have remained poor due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government," he charged. Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics. He claimed that lands of locals in this part of the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned to the people. "The Congress will install a people's government in the state which will empower farmers, small and medium businesses and provide employment to the youth," Gandhi said. He said if the Congress came to power in the state, it would enforce the Land Acquisition Act and facilitate loan waiver for farmers, besides providing them bonus and Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops. Accusing the Raman Singh government of being involved in graft, Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not uttered a word about corruption in Chhattisgarh. "People of the state have suffered because of this," he alleged. "I do politics for the rights of poor, farmers and youth. I will not protect 10-15 industrialists at their cost," he said. Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11. PTI T

Rahul Gandhi promises 'people's government' in Chhattisgarh

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP.

Gehlot and Pilot, however, dismissed suggestions that there was any infighting among the state leaders and asserted that they will unitedly take on the BJP.

The two leaders ended the speculation over whether they will contest the polls at a joint press conference here at the Congress headquarters, where the party announced the joining of BJP MP Harish Chandra Meena from Dausa in Rajasthan.

"We are all united in Rajasthan and the BJP is conspiring to spread false propaganda that the Congress is divided. I will contest the upcoming assembly election and Sachin Pilot and other senior leaders will also contest," Gehlot told reporters.

He was asked about the delay by the Congress in announcing candidates and reports that claimed that infighting among the top state leaders over the distribution of tickets was responsible for it. Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on Monday and will continue till November 19.

Pilot also said that on party chief Rahul Gandhi's directions and Gehlot's request, he will contest the Assembly elections.

Pilot had last contested the Lok Sabha election from Ajmer in 2014, which he lost. He, however, did not contest the bye-election earlier this year.

Sources said the leadership race in Rajasthan will now intensify with both main contenders throwing their hat in the ring.

"There is no division in the party in the state and all the leaders are united in the bid to defeat the BJP with a thumping majority," Pilot said.

On the issue of the chief ministerial candidate, Gehlot said since independence the Congress has never declared its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan and the party is happy to carry on this tradition.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP. Gehlot and Pilot, however, dismissed suggestions that there was any infighting among the state leaders and asserted that they will unitedly take on the BJP. The two leaders ended the speculation over whether they will contest the polls at a joint press conference here at the Congress headquarters, where the party announced the joining of BJP MP Harish Chandra Meena from Dausa in Rajasthan. "We are all united in Rajasthan and the BJP is conspiring to spread false propaganda that the Congress is divided. I will contest the upcoming assembly election and Sachin Pilot and other senior leaders will also contest," Gehlot told reporters. He was asked about the delay by the Congress in announcing candidates and reports that claimed that infighting among the top state leaders over the distribution of tickets was responsible for it. Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on Monday and will continue till November 19. Pilot also said that on party chief Rahul Gandhi's directions and Gehlot's request, he will contest the Assembly elections. Pilot had last contested the Lok Sabha election from Ajmer in 2014, which he lost. He, however, did not contest the bye-election earlier this year. Sources said the leadership race in Rajasthan will now intensify with both main contenders throwing their hat in the ring. "There is no division in the party in the state and all the leaders are united in the bid to defeat the BJP with a thumping majority," Pilot said. On the issue of the chief ministerial candidate, Gehlot said since independence the Congress has never declared its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan and the party is happy to carry on this tradition.

Gehlot, Pilot to contest Rajasthan assembly polls

Softening stance on its share of seats in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, the CPI Tuesday said that it would announce candidates for three assembly segments.

CPI state secretary Chada Venkat Reddy told reporters here that the names of candidates from Husnabad, Wyra and Bellampalli would be announced Wednesday.

The "grand alliance" comprises the Congress, TDP, CPI and Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS).

Expressing dissatisfaction over Congress "unilaterally" announcing that CPI would get three seats, the Left party had earlier said it would field candidates from five assembly segments. The party had also named the five seats.

Chada Venkat Reddy Tuesday said his party is seeking a constituency in Nalgonda district, in addition to the three.

A CPI statement later alleged that Congress has delayed seat sharing with protracted consultations.

The delay would only hurt the "grand alliance", it said.

It wanted the Congress to complete seat sharing soon.

The statement said Chada Venkat Reddy would contest the elections and that Palla Venkat Reddy would function as in charge secretary.

Chada Venkat Reddy is most likely to contest from Husnabad.

Softening stance on its share of seats in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, the CPI Tuesday said that it would announce candidates for three assembly segments.

Softening stance on its share of seats in the "grand alliance" for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, the CPI Tuesday said that it would announce candidates for three assembly segments. CPI state secretary Chada Venkat Reddy told reporters here that the names of candidates from Husnabad, Wyra and Bellampalli would be announced Wednesday. The "grand alliance" comprises the Congress, TDP, CPI and Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS). Expressing dissatisfaction over Congress "unilaterally" announcing that CPI would get three seats, the Left party had earlier said it would field candidates from five assembly segments. The party had also named the five seats. Chada Venkat Reddy Tuesday said his party is seeking a constituency in Nalgonda district, in addition to the three. A CPI statement later alleged that Congress has delayed seat sharing with protracted consultations. The delay would only hurt the "grand alliance", it said. It wanted the Congress to complete seat sharing soon. The statement said Chada Venkat Reddy would contest the elections and that Palla Venkat Reddy would function as in charge secretary. Chada Venkat Reddy is most likely to contest from Husnabad.

Telangana polls: CPI to announce candidates for three assembly segments

The Mizo National Front (MNF), which has been under fire from other political parties for allegedly being close to the BJP, Tuesday said it did not have any electoral alliance with the saffron party and would never go for one as the ideologies of the two parties were "completely different".

There was also no chance of a post-poll alliance between the MNF and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or a coalition in the event of a hung Assembly, MNF senior vice-president Tawnluia said during a meeting in Khawzawl town on the Mizoram-Myanmar border.

"The MNF is for protecting Christianity, but will never condone Hindutva," he said.

Tawnluia added that the Congress had formed a coalition with the BJP to be in power in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) since May last and the Zoram

People's Movement's (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate, Lalduhoma, had formed an alliance with the saffron party earlier.

The Congress had to publicly announce that it was no longer an ally of the BJP in the autonomous council for the ethnic Chakma people that exercised legislative, executive and judicial powers over the allotted departments in its territory spread over 1,500 sq. Km.

The election to the 20-member CADC on April 20 had thrown up a fractured mandate with the MNF getting eight seats, the Congress six and the BJP five. The polling for one seat was stayed by the Gauhati High Court.

The traditional national rivals -- the BJP and the Congress -- later formed a coalition to stake claim to form the executive committee of the tribal council. The coalition, however, faced a setback after some Congress members withdrew support to the BJP-led CADC.&nbsp;

The MNF has been accused of being close to the saffron party as it is a constituent of the BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). Other political parties, especially the ruling Congress, has alleged that the MNF has a covert understanding with the BJP.

Both the BJP and the MNF are contesting all the 40 seats in the November 28 Mizoram Assembly polls, the results of which will be announced on December 11.

The Mizo National Front (MNF), which has been under fire from other political parties for allegedly being close to the BJP, Tuesday said it did not have any electoral alliance with the saffron party and would never go for one as the ideologies of the two parties were "completely different".

The Mizo National Front (MNF), which has been under fire from other political parties for allegedly being close to the BJP, Tuesday said it did not have any electoral alliance with the saffron party and would never go for one as the ideologies of the two parties were "completely different". There was also no chance of a post-poll alliance between the MNF and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or a coalition in the event of a hung Assembly, MNF senior vice-president Tawnluia said during a meeting in Khawzawl town on the Mizoram-Myanmar border. "The MNF is for protecting Christianity, but will never condone Hindutva," he said. Tawnluia added that the Congress had formed a coalition with the BJP to be in power in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) since May last and the Zoram People's Movement's (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate, Lalduhoma, had formed an alliance with the saffron party earlier. The Congress had to publicly announce that it was no longer an ally of the BJP in the autonomous council for the ethnic Chakma people that exercised legislative, executive and judicial powers over the allotted departments in its territory spread over 1,500 sq. Km. The election to the 20-member CADC on April 20 had thrown up a fractured mandate with the MNF getting eight seats, the Congress six and the BJP five. The polling for one seat was stayed by the Gauhati High Court. The traditional national rivals -- the BJP and the Congress -- later formed a coalition to stake claim to form the executive committee of the tribal council. The coalition, however, faced a setback after some Congress members withdrew support to the BJP-led CADC. The MNF has been accused of being close to the saffron party as it is a constituent of the BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). Other political parties, especially the ruling Congress, has alleged that the MNF has a covert understanding with the BJP. Both the BJP and the MNF are contesting all the 40 seats in the November 28 Mizoram Assembly polls, the results of which will be announced on December 11.

No electoral understanding with BJP: Mizo National Front

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family.

Addressing a rally in Kharsia Assembly constituency in Raigarh district in the poll-bound state, Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister did not speak about corruption anymore.

"In civil supply scam of Rs 36,000 crore, names of Raman Singh and his wife surfaced. Rs 5,000 chit fund scam took place under the protection of the Raman Singh government," he alleged.

"His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in Panama papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," the Congress chief alleged.

"Prime minister Modi used to speak about corruption in his speeches earlier, but why he does not speak about the corruption of Raman Singh and his family? Why Raman Singh too is silent over corruption," he asked.

The ruling BJP has denied the allegations of corruption against the chief minister and his family.

Gandhi campaigned for Congress candidate and incumbent MLA from Kharsia, Umesh Patel, Tuesday.

Patel's father Nandkumar Patel, then state Congress chief, was killed in a Naxal attack in Jhiram valley in Bastar's Darbha area on May 25, 2013.

Remembering Nandkumar Patel, Gandhi accused Modi of insulting the martyrdom of Congress leaders who died in the Naxal attack.

He was apparently referring to the prime minister's recent speech in Bastar where he had accused Congress leaders of supporting urban Naxals.

The Congress chief reiterated his allegation that the Modi government took away the Rafale fighter jets contract from the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to industrialist Anil Ambani.

"Modi ji handed over Rs 30,000 crore to Anil Ambani which was your money," Gandhi claimed.

Both the government as well as Ambani have denied the allegations of grant of undue favour to Ambani's firm in the Rafale deal.

The Congress president promised loan waiver to farmers in the state.

"After the Congress government is formed in the state, we will waive the loans of farmers within ten days," he said.

Gandhi&nbsp;said farmers would get a bonus on paddy procurement, and the bonus pending for two years, which the BJP government had promised but not paid, would be disbursed.

On Monday, polling was held in eighteen constituencies of Naxal-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. Remaining 72 seats will go to polls on November 20.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family. Addressing a rally in Kharsia Assembly constituency in Raigarh district in the poll-bound state, Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister did not speak about corruption anymore. "In civil supply scam of Rs 36,000 crore, names of Raman Singh and his wife surfaced. Rs 5,000 chit fund scam took place under the protection of the Raman Singh government," he alleged. "His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in Panama papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," the Congress chief alleged. "Prime minister Modi used to speak about corruption in his speeches earlier, but why he does not speak about the corruption of Raman Singh and his family? Why Raman Singh too is silent over corruption," he asked. The ruling BJP has denied the allegations of corruption against the chief minister and his family. Gandhi campaigned for Congress candidate and incumbent MLA from Kharsia, Umesh Patel, Tuesday. Patel's father Nandkumar Patel, then state Congress chief, was killed in a Naxal attack in Jhiram valley in Bastar's Darbha area on May 25, 2013. Remembering Nandkumar Patel, Gandhi accused Modi of insulting the martyrdom of Congress leaders who died in the Naxal attack. He was apparently referring to the prime minister's recent speech in Bastar where he had accused Congress leaders of supporting urban Naxals. The Congress chief reiterated his allegation that the Modi government took away the Rafale fighter jets contract from the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to industrialist Anil Ambani. "Modi ji handed over Rs 30,000 crore to Anil Ambani which was your money," Gandhi claimed. Both the government as well as Ambani have denied the allegations of grant of undue favour to Ambani's firm in the Rafale deal. The Congress president promised loan waiver to farmers in the state. "After the Congress government is formed in the state, we will waive the loans of farmers within ten days," he said. Gandhi said farmers would get a bonus on paddy procurement, and the bonus pending for two years, which the BJP government had promised but not paid, would be disbursed. On Monday, polling was held in eighteen constituencies of Naxal-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. Remaining 72 seats will go to polls on November 20.

Why is PM mum on corruption chages against Raman Singh: Rahul Gandhi

An encounter between security forces and Maoists broke out in Chhattisgarh's Sukma region on Monday wherein two Maoists were killed, news agency ANI reported, adding that two rifles have been recovered.

Earlier in the day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-polls-3-more-crpf-commandos-injured-5-naxals-killed-in-bijapur-encounter-176850">five Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawans were injured</a> in another encounter that broke out between security forces and Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur's Pamed. The security forces gunned down five Naxals, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

IEDs were detected and defused by security forces in Bijapur area and Sukma district on Monday.&nbsp;

Amid Naxal attacks, Chhattisgarh went to polls on Monday in the first phase of the assembly elections.&nbsp;

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Two Maoists killed in an encounter with security forces in Sukma. Two rifles also recovered. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y5EVrBW6su">pic.twitter.com/Y5EVrBW6su</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061979429629497345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, went to polls today in the first phase, the remaining 72 seats of Chhattisgarh assembly will go to vote on November 20 as part of a multi-phased voting across five states that also include neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram.

Polling concluded on Monday evening with nearly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">70 per cent voter turnout</a>. Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat stated that the polling went peacefully as compared to earlier elections.&nbsp;

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Polling was peaceful. In comparison to earlier elections, this elections have been singular achievement of the people working in fields. Attempts were made to create fear among people but enthusiasm in voters was appreciable: OP Rawat, Chief Election Commissioner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUXaT3iD7c">pic.twitter.com/eUXaT3iD7c</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061985578986717186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Polling was peaceful. In comparison to earlier elections, this election has been singular achievement of the people working in fields. Attempts were made to create fear among people but enthusiasm in voters was appreciable," Rawat told media.&nbsp;

An encounter between security forces and Maoists broke out in Chhattisgarh's Sukma region on Monday wherein two Maoists were killed, news agency ANI reported, adding that two rifles have been recovered.

An encounter between security forces and Maoists broke out in Chhattisgarh's Sukma region on Monday wherein two Maoists were killed, news agency ANI reported, adding that two rifles have been recovered. Earlier in the day, five Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawans were injured in another encounter that broke out between security forces and Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur's Pamed. The security forces gunned down five Naxals, news agency ANI reported. IEDs were detected and defused by security forces in Bijapur area and Sukma district on Monday. Amid Naxal attacks, Chhattisgarh went to polls on Monday in the first phase of the assembly elections. Two Maoists killed in an encounter with security forces in Sukma. Two rifles also recovered. #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/Y5EVrBW6su — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2018 × As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, went to polls today in the first phase, the remaining 72 seats of Chhattisgarh assembly will go to vote on November 20 as part of a multi-phased voting across five states that also include neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram. Polling concluded on Monday evening with nearly 70 per cent voter turnout. Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat stated that the polling went peacefully as compared to earlier elections. Polling was peaceful. In comparison to earlier elections, this elections have been singular achievement of the people working in fields. Attempts were made to create fear among people but enthusiasm in voters was appreciable: OP Rawat, Chief Election Commissioner #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/eUXaT3iD7c — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2018 × "Polling was peaceful. In comparison to earlier elections, this election has been singular achievement of the people working in fields. Attempts were made to create fear among people but enthusiasm in voters was appreciable," Rawat told media.

Chhattisgarh poll unrest: Two Maoists killed in encounter with security forces in Sukma region

Three more Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawans were injured and at least five Naxals were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur's Pamed area on Monday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, all CoBRA personnel are now out the danger. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-polls-naxal-violence-mars-voting-two-crpf-commandos-injured-176802">Two jawans were injured earlier on Monday</a> in the same encounter.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Three more personnel of Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) are injured and around five Naxals are dead in the encounter that broke out between security forces &amp; Naxals in Bijapur's Pamed area today. All the CoBRA personnel are out danger. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/TkhHF0pjpG">https://t.co/TkhHF0pjpG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061930060331081729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, security forces, earlier today, defused an IED detected on the road leading to Dwarapara polling booth, under PS Bairamgarh in Bijapur.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the security forces detected three IEDs (Improvised Explosive Device) near a polling booth in Konta's Banda in Sukma district.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a>: Security forces defused IED detected on the road leading to Dwarapara polling booth, under PS Bairamgarh in Bijapur.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061928494773481472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, have gone to polls today in the first phase of the electoral fight marred by Naxal attacks in Chhattisgarh.

The voter turnout in the first phase of Chhattisgarh assembly election on Monday was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-assembly-polls-nearly-50-voter-turnout-recorded-till-3pm-176837">recorded at 47.18 per cent till 3 pm</a>. By 2 pm the same was recorded at nearly 38 per cent.

The remaining 72 seats of Chhattisgarh assembly will go to vote on November 20 as part of a multi-phased voting across five states that also include neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram.

Three more Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawans were injured and at least five Naxals were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur's Pamed area on Monday, news agency ANI reported.

Three more Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawans were injured and at least five Naxals were killed in an encounter that broke out between security forces and Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur's Pamed area on Monday, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, all CoBRA personnel are now out the danger. Two jawans were injured earlier on Monday in the same encounter. #UPDATE: Three more personnel of Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) are injured and around five Naxals are dead in the encounter that broke out between security forces & Naxals in Bijapur's Pamed area today. All the CoBRA personnel are out danger. #Chhattisgarh https://t.co/TkhHF0pjpG — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2018 × Meanwhile, security forces, earlier today, defused an IED detected on the road leading to Dwarapara polling booth, under PS Bairamgarh in Bijapur. Earlier in the day, the security forces detected three IEDs (Improvised Explosive Device) near a polling booth in Konta's Banda in Sukma district. #Chhattisgarh: Security forces defused IED detected on the road leading to Dwarapara polling booth, under PS Bairamgarh in Bijapur. — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2018 × As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, have gone to polls today in the first phase of the electoral fight marred by Naxal attacks in Chhattisgarh. The voter turnout in the first phase of Chhattisgarh assembly election on Monday was recorded at 47.18 per cent till 3 pm. By 2 pm the same was recorded at nearly 38 per cent. The remaining 72 seats of Chhattisgarh assembly will go to vote on November 20 as part of a multi-phased voting across five states that also include neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram.

Chhattisgarh poll violence: 5 CRPF commandos injured, 5 Naxals killed in Bijapur encounter

Anti-BJP parties would meet in New Delhi on November 22 to create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action, TDP president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu said Saturday.

Addressing a press meet after a meeting with Congress general secretary Ashok Gehlot who came here as an emissary of Rahul Gandhi at his riverfront residence here, the Telugu Desam President said the endeavour was to bring everybody on board to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Naidu said he would meet West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on November 19 or 20.

"This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said.

The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP.

"Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," Naidu said.

The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added.

Naidu said he had already met several leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah and others, and would meet Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Replying to questions, he said there were only "two platforms" in the country BJP and anti-BJP.

"Political parties should decide which side they are. If they don't join us, it means they are with BJP," he said.

"The Tamil Nadu government is controlled by remote control (from New Delhi). Telangana Rashtra Samitis (TRS) agenda is BJP agenda. Some parties are there. They are aligned with the BJP," Naidu said.

The TDP chief said some parties might join them after the elections to Assemblies in five states and "one or two" might come after the Lok Sabha elections. 
"Our effort is to bring everybody on board to fight the BJP," he said.

To a question, he said sharing of seats (in elections) and other things would come after some time.

Gehlot said there was an "undeclared Emergency-type atmosphere in the country.

Institutions are getting destroyed in the country. Constitution (of India) is getting weakened. People are worried. Not one section of the society is happy with the Modi administration in the last four and a half years," the former Rajasthan chief minister said.

While anti-BJP parties have their foundations in secularism and democracy, the BJP and RSS people have only the "mask of democracy" on their faces, he said.

"They dont have any faith in democracy. They are fascist...," Gehlot alleged.

This was the "proper time" for (anti-BJP) parties to come on to a single platform and forge a grand alliance, the AICC general secretary added.&nbsp;

Anti-BJP parties would meet in New Delhi on November 22 to create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action, TDP president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu said Saturday.

Anti-BJP parties would meet in New Delhi on November 22 to create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action, TDP president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu said Saturday. Addressing a press meet after a meeting with Congress general secretary Ashok Gehlot who came here as an emissary of Rahul Gandhi at his riverfront residence here, the Telugu Desam President said the endeavour was to bring everybody on board to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party. Naidu said he would meet West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on November 19 or 20. "This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said. The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP. "Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," Naidu said. The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added. Naidu said he had already met several leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah and others, and would meet Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. Replying to questions, he said there were only "two platforms" in the country BJP and anti-BJP. "Political parties should decide which side they are. If they don't join us, it means they are with BJP," he said. "The Tamil Nadu government is controlled by remote control (from New Delhi). Telangana Rashtra Samitis (TRS) agenda is BJP agenda. Some parties are there. They are aligned with the BJP," Naidu said. The TDP chief said some parties might join them after the elections to Assemblies in five states and "one or two" might come after the Lok Sabha elections. "Our effort is to bring everybody on board to fight the BJP," he said. To a question, he said sharing of seats (in elections) and other things would come after some time. Gehlot said there was an "undeclared Emergency-type atmosphere in the country. Institutions are getting destroyed in the country. Constitution (of India) is getting weakened. People are worried. Not one section of the society is happy with the Modi administration in the last four and a half years," the former Rajasthan chief minister said. While anti-BJP parties have their foundations in secularism and democracy, the BJP and RSS people have only the "mask of democracy" on their faces, he said. "They dont have any faith in democracy. They are fascist...," Gehlot alleged. This was the "proper time" for (anti-BJP) parties to come on to a single platform and forge a grand alliance, the AICC general secretary added.

Opposition parties will meet on November 22 to discuss future course of action: Chandrababu Naidu

BJP has fielded Syed Shahezadi, a young Muslim woman, as its candidate from Chandrayangutta constituency in Hyderabad, to take on AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi in the December 7 state assembly election.

A novice in electoral politics, Shahezadi, who was a leader of ABVP, student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, hails from Adilabad in Telangana.

Shahezadi, who completed post-graduation in political science from Osmania University in Hyderabad, alleged there has been no improvement in the condition of common people in Chandrayangutta and other parts of old city of Hyderabad though All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has been elected for the past two decades.

She said she can work for people's welfare by implementing central government schemes.

"I am asking what did he (Owaisi) do for you (people)? What change has come in your lives? What about your children's education and how many of them are employed? How many have become engineers and doctors," she told PTI.

A communal atmosphere prevailed in the old city of Hyderabad, AIMIM's stronghold, and there has been no change in the lives of common people, including ordinary Muslims, with AIMIM at the helm, she alleged.

Owaisi has been elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014.

Dismissing allegations that BJP is a communal party, she said such a mindset has been established that the organisation was opposed to Muslims.

It is the BJP which made the late APJ Abdul Kalam President of India and BJP's Muslim leaders like Sikandar Bhakt, Najma Heptulla and M J Akbar held important positions, she said.

Budget has been increased for Maulana Azad Urdu University in Hyderabad and for madrassas in Uttar Pradesh under a BJP government, she claimed.

Having studied in government schools and colleges, Shahezadi said, she understands poverty, public issues and the issues concerning Muslim women.

She thanked BJP's leadership for making her the candidate though she does not have money power.

"If there is any party which encourages youth, it is BJP. It is BJP which encourages Muslims also. Because, I am the example," she said.

BJP's Telangana unit president K Laxman said Shahezadi can expose the "misdeeds of AIMIM and how they are exploiting poor Muslims."

Shahezadi hailed Modi government's decision on triple talaq issue and she wants to work for empowerment of the Muslim women, he said.

Laxman said she was keen on contesting from Chandrayangutta which the party considered and decided to field her from the segment.

BJP has fielded Syed Shahezadi, a young Muslim woman, as its candidate from Chandrayangutta constituency in Hyderabad, to take on AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi in the December 7 state assembly election.

BJP has fielded Syed Shahezadi, a young Muslim woman, as its candidate from Chandrayangutta constituency in Hyderabad, to take on AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi in the December 7 state assembly election. A novice in electoral politics, Shahezadi, who was a leader of ABVP, student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, hails from Adilabad in Telangana. Shahezadi, who completed post-graduation in political science from Osmania University in Hyderabad, alleged there has been no improvement in the condition of common people in Chandrayangutta and other parts of old city of Hyderabad though All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has been elected for the past two decades. She said she can work for people's welfare by implementing central government schemes. "I am asking what did he (Owaisi) do for you (people)? What change has come in your lives? What about your children's education and how many of them are employed? How many have become engineers and doctors," she told PTI. A communal atmosphere prevailed in the old city of Hyderabad, AIMIM's stronghold, and there has been no change in the lives of common people, including ordinary Muslims, with AIMIM at the helm, she alleged. Owaisi has been elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014. Dismissing allegations that BJP is a communal party, she said such a mindset has been established that the organisation was opposed to Muslims. It is the BJP which made the late APJ Abdul Kalam President of India and BJP's Muslim leaders like Sikandar Bhakt, Najma Heptulla and M J Akbar held important positions, she said. Budget has been increased for Maulana Azad Urdu University in Hyderabad and for madrassas in Uttar Pradesh under a BJP government, she claimed. Having studied in government schools and colleges, Shahezadi said, she understands poverty, public issues and the issues concerning Muslim women. She thanked BJP's leadership for making her the candidate though she does not have money power. "If there is any party which encourages youth, it is BJP. It is BJP which encourages Muslims also. Because, I am the example," she said. BJP's Telangana unit president K Laxman said Shahezadi can expose the "misdeeds of AIMIM and how they are exploiting poor Muslims." Shahezadi hailed Modi government's decision on triple talaq issue and she wants to work for empowerment of the Muslim women, he said. Laxman said she was keen on contesting from Chandrayangutta which the party considered and decided to field her from the segment.

Telangana polls: BJP fields Muslim woman candidate against Akbaruddin Owaisi

Taking a jibe at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for tilting towards the Congress party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Saturday opined that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief should first save his seat before thinking about saving the country.

"First of all, Naidu talking about saving the country is a big thing. I believe that he must first try to save his own chair in the state. The current Andhra Pradesh government is unpopular and practices menaces like corruption. The TDP will surely loose upcoming 2019 elections," he told ANI.

Naidu quit the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance in March after a prolonged dispute over government`s refusal to grant "special category" status to Andhra Pradesh.

The TDP leader, since then, has leaned on the Congress and other opposition parties.

Madhav reiterated that by allying with the Congress, Naidu is destroying the legacy of his own party.

"This political outfit (TDP) was formed by N T Rama Rao in 1982 to weed out the Congress from the two Telugu speaking states- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. He (Naidu) first backstabbed his father-in-law (N T Rama Rao) and became the chief minister, and now he is backstabbing his own party members," the BJP General Secretary added.

Madhav's remark came after Naidu, who met Congress president Rahul Gandhi earlier in the week to discuss a TDP-Congress alliance, had said the two parties were coming together to save the nation.

When asked about the upcoming Telangana Assembly elections, Madhav asserted that his party will surely emerge victorious by bagging the maximum number of seats.

"People in Telangana are really fed up with the present government. BJP is contesting with full strength with all 119 seats in the state and we are hopeful that Telangana would spring a surprise result in elections this year," he stated.

Telangana Legislative Assembly election is scheduled to be held on December 7 and the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Taking a jibe at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for tilting towards the Congress party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Saturday opined that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief should first save his seat before thinking about saving the country.

Taking a jibe at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for tilting towards the Congress party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Saturday opined that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief should first save his seat before thinking about saving the country. "First of all, Naidu talking about saving the country is a big thing. I believe that he must first try to save his own chair in the state. The current Andhra Pradesh government is unpopular and practices menaces like corruption. The TDP will surely loose upcoming 2019 elections," he told ANI. Naidu quit the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance in March after a prolonged dispute over government`s refusal to grant "special category" status to Andhra Pradesh. The TDP leader, since then, has leaned on the Congress and other opposition parties. Madhav reiterated that by allying with the Congress, Naidu is destroying the legacy of his own party. "This political outfit (TDP) was formed by N T Rama Rao in 1982 to weed out the Congress from the two Telugu speaking states- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. He (Naidu) first backstabbed his father-in-law (N T Rama Rao) and became the chief minister, and now he is backstabbing his own party members," the BJP General Secretary added. Madhav's remark came after Naidu, who met Congress president Rahul Gandhi earlier in the week to discuss a TDP-Congress alliance, had said the two parties were coming together to save the nation. When asked about the upcoming Telangana Assembly elections, Madhav asserted that his party will surely emerge victorious by bagging the maximum number of seats. "People in Telangana are really fed up with the present government. BJP is contesting with full strength with all 119 seats in the state and we are hopeful that Telangana would spring a surprise result in elections this year," he stated. Telangana Legislative Assembly election is scheduled to be held on December 7 and the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Save your seat before saving country: Ram Madhav hits out at Andhra CM

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