Pakistan's Punjab has been dissolved after the governor, Baligh Ur Rehman, refuses to become part of the process. Caretaker CM to be named by January 17. Watch further to know more.

Pakistan's Punjab Assembly dissolved after governor refuses to sign summary

Pakistan seems to be going through a very complicated time, it is not just the crippling economy that the country is battling but a similar political crisis as well. In the latest, the Chief Minister of Punjab province Chaudhry Paraiz Elahi has signed a summary for dissolving Punjab Assembly.

Pakistan: Punjab CM signs summary for dissolving Provincial Assembly

The contest in Gujarat has traditionally been between the BJP and Congress, it turned three-cornered this time with the entry of the AAP. The fortunes of the Congress seem to have been dented by AAP which has registered its presence and will now aim to be the main opposition party in the state though its chief ministerial candidate Isudan Gadhvi lost in Khambhalia.

AAP secured nearly 13&nbsp;per cent of the total votes polled in Gujarat, translating into over 3.4&nbsp;million votes&nbsp;and can now claim national party status, becoming the ninth one, within a decade of its existence.

<h2>Here is the full list of winning of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidates:</h2>

<table style="border-collapse:collapse; width:494pt; border:none" width="657">
	<colgroup>
		<col style="width:48pt" width="64" />
		<col style="width:66pt" width="88" />
		<col style="width:205pt" width="273" />
		<col style="width:86pt" width="114" />
		<col style="width:89pt" width="118" />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl65" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; width:48pt; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap" width="64">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;SN</td>
			<td class="xl66" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-left:none; width:66pt; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap" width="88">Constituency</td>
			<td class="xl66" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-left:none; width:205pt; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap" width="273">Leading Candidate</td>
			<td class="xl66" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-left:none; width:86pt; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap" width="114">Party</td>
			<td class="xl66" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-left:none; width:89pt; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap" width="118">Status</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl67" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; border-top:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">1</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Botad</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">MAKWANA UMESHBHAI NARANBHAI</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Aam Aadmi Party</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Result Declared</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl67" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; border-top:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">2</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Dediapada</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Chaitarbhai Damjibhai Vasava</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Aam Aadmi Party</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Result Declared</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl67" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; border-top:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">3</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Gariadhar</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">SUDHIRBHAI VAGHANI (SUDHIR VAGHANI)</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Aam Aadmi Party</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Result Declared</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl67" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; border-top:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">4</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Jamjodhpur</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Ahir Hemantbhai Hardasbhai</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Aam Aadmi Party</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Result Declared</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20" style="height:15.0pt">
			<td class="xl67" height="20" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; height:15.0pt; border-top:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">5</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Visavadar</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">BHUPENDRABHAI GANDUBHAI BHAYANI</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Aam Aadmi Party</td>
			<td class="xl67" style="border:0.5pt solid windowtext; border-top:none; border-left:none; text-align:center; padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; vertical-align:bottom; white-space:nowrap">Result Declared</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
&nbsp;

The contest in Gujarat has traditionally been between the BJP and Congress, it turned three-cornered this time with the entry of the AAP. The fortunes of the Congress seem to have been dented by AAP which has registered its presence and will now aim to be the main opposition party in the state though its chief ministerial candidate Isudan Gadhvi lost in Khambhalia.

The contest in Gujarat has traditionally been between the BJP and Congress, it turned three-cornered this time with the entry of the AAP. The fortunes of the Congress seem to have been dented by AAP which has registered its presence and will now aim to be the main opposition party in the state though its chief ministerial candidate Isudan Gadhvi lost in Khambhalia. AAP secured nearly 13 per cent of the total votes polled in Gujarat, translating into over 3.4 million votes and can now claim national party status, becoming the ninth one, within a decade of its existence. Here is the full list of winning of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidates: SN Constituency Leading Candidate Party Status 1 Botad MAKWANA UMESHBHAI NARANBHAI Aam Aadmi Party Result Declared 2 Dediapada Chaitarbhai Damjibhai Vasava Aam Aadmi Party Result Declared 3 Gariadhar SUDHIRBHAI VAGHANI (SUDHIR VAGHANI) Aam Aadmi Party Result Declared 4 Jamjodhpur Ahir Hemantbhai Hardasbhai Aam Aadmi Party Result Declared 5 Visavadar BHUPENDRABHAI GANDUBHAI BHAYANI Aam Aadmi Party Result Declared

Gujarat Assembly Election Results 2022: Full list of AAP winner candidates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday posted a historic victory in Gujarat and stormed back to power with a thumping majority, winning 156 seats in the 182-member state assembly and a seventh term, equalling the Left Front's record in West Bengal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday posted a historic victory in Gujarat and stormed back to power with a thumping majority, winning 156 seats in the 182-member state assembly and a seventh term, equalling the Left Front's record in West Bengal. The Congress party finished second, winning 17 seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) made its debut with five seats. Independents won three seats and the Samajwadi Party also registered a solitary win. The BJP improved its vote share to 52.5 per cent from 49 per cent last time. The BJP not only improved its best showing till date — 127 seats in 2002, but also surpassed the record set by the Congress party in 1985, when it won 149 seats under the leadership of late Madhavsinh Solanki, riding on the sympathy wave following the assassination of former prime minister Indira Gandhi. Below is the list of winner candidates of BJP for Gujarat Election 2022: SN Constituency Leading Candidate/Winner Party Status 1 Bardoli ISHVARBHAI ALIAS ANILBHAI RAMANBHAI PARMAR BJP Result Declared 2 Dahod Kanaiyalal Bachubhai Kishori BJP Result Declared 3 Gondal Geetaba Jayrajsinh Jadeja BJP Result Declared 4 Jasdan KUNVARJIBHAI MOHANBHAI BAVALIYA BJP Result Declared 5 Limkheda Bhabhor Shaileshbhai Sumanbhai BJP Result Declared 6 Mahuva MOHANBHAI DHANJIBHAI DHODIYA BJP Result Declared 7 Mansa JAYANTIBHAI SOMABHAI PATEL (J.S. PATEL) BJP Result Declared 8 Navsari Desai Rakesh Gunvantbhai BJP Result Declared 9 Petlad Kamleshbhai Rameshbhai Patel (Master) BJP Result Declared 10 Surat East ARVIND SHANTILAL RANA BJP Result Declared 11 Akota Chaitanya Makarandbhai Desai BJP Result Declared 12 Amraiwadi DR. HASMUKH PATEL BJP Result Declared 13 Amreli KAUSHIK KANTIBHAI VEKARIYA BJP Result Declared 14 Anand YOGESH R. PATEL (BAPJI) BJP Result Declared 15 Anjar CHHANGA TRIKAM BIJAL BJP Result Declared 16 Ankleshwar Ishwarsinh Thakorbhai Patel BJP Result Declared 17 Asarwa Darshna M. Vaghela BJP Result Declared 18 Balasinor Mansinh Kohyabhai Chauhan BJP Result Declared 19 Bapunagar Dineshsinh Rajendrasinh Kushwaha BJP Result Declared 20 Bayad BHIKHIBEN GIRVATSINH PARMAR BJP Result Declared 21 Becharaji THAKOR SUKHAJI SOMAJI BJP Result Declared 22 Bharuch RAMESHBHAI NARANDAS MISTRY BJP Result Declared 23 Bhavnagar East SEJALBEN RAJIVKUMAR PANDYA BJP Result Declared 24 Bhavnagar Rural PARSHOTTAMBHAI O. SOLANKI BJP Result Declared 25 Bhavnagar West JITENDRABHAI SAVAJIBHAI VAGHANI (JITU VAGHANI) BJP Result Declared 26 Bhiloda P.C.Baranda BJP Result Declared 27 Bhuj KESHUBHAI SHIVDAS PATEL BJP Result Declared 28 Borsad Solanki Ramanbhai Bhikhabhai BJP Result Declared 29 Chanasma Dilipkumar Virajibhai Thakor BJP Result Declared 30 Chhota Udaipur RAJENDRASINH MOHANSINH RATHVA BJP Result Declared 31 Choryasi SANDIP DESAI BJP Result Declared 32 Chotila CHAUHAN SHAMAJIBHAI BHIMAJIBHAI BJP Result Declared 33 Dabhoi Shaileshbhai Kanaiyalal Mehta (Shailesh Sotta) BJP Result Declared 34 Dahegam CHAUHAN BALRAJSINH KALYANSINH BJP Result Declared 35 Dangs VIJAYBHAI RAMESHBHAI PATEL BJP Result Declared 36 Dariapur Kaushikbhai Sukhlal Jain (Kaushik Jain) BJP Result Declared 37 Dasada P.K.Parmar BJP Result Declared 38 Daskroi BABUBHAI JAMNADAS PATEL (B.J.P.) BJP Result Declared 39 Deesa PRAVINKUMAR GORDHANJI MALI BJP Result Declared 40 Deodar KESHAJI SHIVAJI CHAUHAN BJP Result Declared 41 Devgadhbaria Khabad Bachubhai Maganbhai BJP Result Declared 42 Dhandhuka Kalubhai Rupabhai Dabhi BJP Result Declared 43 Dharampur Arvind Chhotubhai Patel BJP Result Declared 44 Dhari KAKADIYA JAYSUKHBHAI VALLABHBHAI (KAKADIYA J.V.) BJP Result Declared 45 Dholka KIRITSINH SARDARSANG DABHI BJP Result Declared 46 Dhoraji Dr. Mahendrabhai Padalia BJP Result Declared 47 Dhrangadhra Prakashbhai Parsotambhai Varmora BJP Result Declared 48 Dwarka Pabubha Virambha Manek BJP Result Declared 49 Ellisbridge Amit Shah BJP Result Declared 50 Fatepura KATARA RAMESHBHAI BHURABHAI BJP Result Declared 51 Gadhada Mahant Shambhunath Tundiya BJP Result Declared 52 Gandevi Nareshbhai Maganbhai Patel BJP Result Declared 53 Gandhidham MALTI KISHOR MAHESHWARI BJP Result Declared 54 Gandhinagar North RITABEN KETANKUMAR PATEL BJP Result Declared 55 Gandhinagar South ALPESH KHODAJI THAKOR BJP Result Declared 56 Garbada BHABHOR MAHENDRABHAI RAMESHBHAI BJP Result Declared 57 Ghatlodia PATEL BHUPENDRABHAI RAJNIKANT BJP Result Declared 58 Godhra C.K.RAULJI BJP Result Declared 59 Halol JAYDRATHSINHJI PARMAR BJP Result Declared 60 Himatnagar Vinendrasinh Dilipsinh Zala BJP Result Declared 61 Idar RAMANLAL ISHWARLAL VORA BJP Result Declared 62 Jalalpore R.C.PATEL BJP Result Declared 63 Jambusar DEVKISHORDASJI BHAKTISVARUPDASJI SWAMI BJP Result Declared 64 Jamnagar North RIVASINH HARDEVSINH SOLANKI (RIVABA RAVINDRASINH JADEJA) BJP Result Declared 65 Jamnagar Rural PATEL RAGHAVJIBHAI HANSRAJBHAI BJP Result Declared 66 Jamnagar South Akbari Divyeshbhai Ranchhodbhai BJP Result Declared 67 Jetpur Jayeshbhai Vitthalbhai Radadiya BJP Result Declared 68 Jetpur RATHWA JAYANTIBHAI SAVJIBHAI BJP Result Declared 69 Jhagadia RITESHKUMAR RAMANBHAI VASAVA (KALABHAI) BJP Result Declared 70 Jhalod MAHESHBHAI SOMJIBHAI BHURIYA BJP Result Declared 71 Junagadh SANJAY SUKHABHAI KORADIA BJP Result Declared 72 Kadi Karsanbhai Punjabhai Solanki BJP Result Declared 73 Kalavad CHAVDA MEGHJIBHAI AMARABHAI BJP Result Declared 74 Kalol THAKOR LAXMANJI PUNJAJI (BAKAJI) BJP Result Declared 75 Kalol FATESINH VAKHATSINH CHAUHAN BJP Result Declared 76 Kamrej PRAFUL PANSHERIYA BJP Result Declared 77 Kapadvanj Zala Rajeshkumar Maganbhai BJP Result Declared 78 Kaprada Jitubhai Harjibhai Chaudhari BJP Result Declared 79 Karanj PRAVINBHAI MANJIBHAI GHOGHARI BJP Result Declared 80 Karjan AKSHAYKUMAR ISHVARBHAI PATEL BJP Result Declared 81 Katargam VINODBHAI AMARSHIBHAI MORADIYA BJP Result Declared 82 Keshod DEVABHAI PUNJABHAI MALAM BJP Result Declared 83 Khambhalia Ayar Mulubhai Hardasbhai Bera BJP Result Declared 84 Kodinar PRADYUMAN GANUBHAI VAJA BJP Result Declared 85 Lathi JANAKBHAI TALAVIYA BJP Result Declared 86 Limbayat Sangitaben Rajendra Patil BJP Result Declared 87 Limbdi KIRITSINH JITUBHA RANA BJP Result Declared 88 Mahesana Patel Mukeshkumar D. BJP Result Declared 89 Mahudha SANJAYSINH VIJAYSINH MAHIDA BJP Result Declared 90 Mahuva GOHIL SHIVABHAI JERAMBHAI BJP Result Declared 91 Majura HARSH RAMESH SANGHVI BJP Result Declared 92 Mandvi Aniruddha Bhailal Dave BJP Result Declared 93 Mandvi KUNVARJIBHAI NARSINHBHAI HALPATI BJP Result Declared 94 Mangrol KARGATIYA BHAGVANJIBHAI LAKHABHAI BJP Result Declared 95 Mangrol GANPATSINH VESTABHAI VASAVA BJP Result Declared 96 Maninagar Amul Bhatt BJP Result Declared 97 Manjalpur Yogeshbhai Narandas Patel BJP Result Declared 98 Matar Kalpeshbhai Ashabhai Parmar BJP Result Declared 99 Mehmedabad Arjunsinh Udesinh Chauhan BJP Result Declared 100 Modasa BHIKHUSINHJI CHATURSINHJI PARMAR BJP Result Declared 101 Morbi AMRUTIYA KANTILAL SHIVLAL BJP Result Declared 102 Morva Hadaf SUTHAR NIMISHABEN MANHARSINH BJP Result Declared 103 Nadiad DESAI PANKAJBHAI VINUBHAI (GOTIYO) BJP Result Declared 104 Nandod Dr. DARSHNA CHANDUBHAI DESHMUKH(VASAVA) BJP Result Declared 105 Naranpura JITENDRAKUMAR RAMANLAL PATEL (JITU BHAGAT) BJP Result Declared 106 Naroda KUKRANI PAYAL MANOJKUMAR BJP Result Declared 107 Nikol JAGDISH VISHWAKARMA BJP Result Declared 108 Nizar DR.JAYRAMBHAI CHEMABHAI GAMIT BJP Result Declared 109 Olpad MUKESHBHAI ZINABHAI PATEL BJP Result Declared 110 Padra CHAITANYASINH PRATAPSINH ZALA BJP Result Declared 111 Palanpur ANIKET GIRISHBHAI THAKER BJP Result Declared 112 Palitana BHIKHABHAI RAVAJIBHAI BARAIYA BJP Result Declared 113 Pardi KANUBHAI MOHANLAL DESAI BJP Result Declared 114 Prantij GAJENDRASINH UDESINH PARMAR BJP Result Declared 115 Radhanpur Lavingji Muljiji Solanki BJP Result Declared 116 Rajkot East Uday Kangad BJP Result Declared 117 Rajkot Rural Bhanuben Manoharbhai Babariya BJP Result Declared 118 Rajkot South RAMESHBHAI VIRJIBHAI TILALA BJP Result Declared 119 Rajkot West DR. DARSHITA SHAH BJP Result Declared 120 Rajula HIRABHAI ODHAVJIBHAI SOLANKI BJP Result Declared 121 Raopura BALKRUSHNA KHANDERAO SHUKLA (BALU SHUKLA) BJP Result Declared 122 Sabarmati PATEL HARSHADBHAI RANCHHODBHAI (HARSHAD PATEL) BJP Result Declared 123 Sanand KANUBHAI KARAMSHIBHAI PATEL BJP Result Declared 124 Sankheda Abhesinh Motibhai Tadvi BJP Result Declared 125 Santrampur Dr. Kuberbhai Mansukhbhai Dindor BJP Result Declared 126 Savarkundla KASWALA MAHESH BJP Result Declared 127 Savli INAMDAR KETANBHAI MAHENDRABHAI BJP Result Declared 128 Sayajigunj KEYUR NARAYANDAS ROKADIA BJP Result Declared 129 Shehra Ahir(Bharvad) Jethabhai Ghelabhai BJP Result Declared 130 Sidhpur Balvantsinh Chandansinh Rajput BJP Result Declared 131 Sojitra PATEL VIPULKUMAR VINUBHAI BJP Result Declared 132 Surat North KANTIBHAI HIMMATBHAI BALAR BJP Result Declared 133 Surat West PURNESH MODI BJP Result Declared 134 Talaja GAUTAMBHAI GOPABHAI CHAUHAN BJP Result Declared 135 Talala Bhagabhai Dhanabhai Barad BJP Result Declared 136 Tankara DURLABHJIBHAI HARAKHJIBHAI DETHARIYA BJP Result Declared 137 Thakkarbapa Nagar Kanchanben Vinubhai Radadiya BJP Result Declared 138 Tharad SHANKARBHAI LAGDHIRBHAI CHAUDHARY BJP Result Declared 139 Thasra Yogendrasinh Parmar (BAKABHAI) BJP Result Declared 140 Udhna MANUBHAI M. PATEL (FOGWA) BJP Result Declared 141 Umbergaon PATKAR RAMANLAL NANUBHAI BJP Result Declared 142 Umreth Govindbhai Raijibhai Parmar BJP Result Declared 143 Una KALUBHAI CHANABHAI RATHOD BJP Result Declared 144 Unjha PATEL KIRITKUMAR KESHAVLAL (K K PATEL) BJP Result Declared 145 Vadgam MANIBHAI JETHABHAI VAGHELA BJP Result Declared 146 Vadodara City MANISHA VAKIL BJP Result Declared 147 Vagra ARUNSINH AJITSINH RANA BJP Result Declared 148 Valsad BHARATBHAI KIKUBHAI PATEL BJP Result Declared 149 Varachha Road KISHOR KANANI (KUMAR) BJP Result Declared 150 Vatva Babusinh Sarabhai Jadav BJP Result Declared 151 Vejalpur AMIT THAKER BJP Result Declared 152 Viramgam PATEL HARDIK BHARATBHAI BJP Result Declared 153 Visnagar Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel BJP Result Declared 154 Vyara KOKANI MOHANBHAI DHEDABHAI BJP Result Declared 155 Wadhwan JAGDISHBHAI PRABHUBHAI MAKWANA BJP Result Declared 156 Wankaner JITENDRA KANTILAL SOMANI BJP Result Declared

Gujarat Election Results 2022: Full list of BJP winning candidates with constituencies

In Gujarat, the BJP has held power for the last 27 years. The counting for the 182-member Gujarat legislature starts today at 8am, so we'll find out if the arrival of AAP will make a difference this time.

In Gujarat, the BJP has held power for the last 27 years. The counting for the 182-member Gujarat legislature starts today at 8am, so we'll find out if the arrival of AAP will make a difference this time. Exit polls predict that AAP won't gain more than two digits in Gujarat, giving the BJP the victory. Gandhinagar North Assembly Election 2022 Result Live Updates: Ritaben of the BJP is in the lead. In the Gujarat assembly elections, Virendrasinh Vaghela is running for Congress, Ritaben Patel is running for the BJP, and Mukesh Bhai Patel is running for the AAP to represent Gandhinagar in the Vidhan Sabha. The Gandhinagar Vidhan Sabha seat is experiencing a difficult election since candidates from the BJP, Congress, and AAP are all in the race. Ritaben Patel, Virendrasinh Vaghela, and Mukesh Bhai Patel are running for the Gandhinagar Visdhan Sabha seat for the BJP, AAP, and Congress, respectively. CJ Chavda of the Congress won the Gandhinagar North assembly seat in 2017 by edging out Ashokkumar Ranchhodbhai Patel of the BJP by a slim margin of 5,736 votes. Constituency Leading Candidate Leading Party Status Gandhinagar North RITABEN KETANKUMAR PATEL BJP Result Declared Gandhinagar South ALPESH KHODAJI THAKOR BJP Result Awaited Surat Assembly Election 2022 Result Live Updates: Aslam Firozbhai Cyclewala of the Congress is fielding in Surat East. Kanti Balar of the BJP is fielding in Surat North with 4146 votes, while Mahendra Navadiya is from. Congress candidate Aslam Firozbhai Cyclewala is fielded from Surat East. Around 16 constituencies fall under Surat district with parties fighting to gain control of the diamond hub and its nearby areas. Union minister and Surat MP, Darshana Jardosh said, "BJP has always fulfilled its promises. People have voted for development in Gujarat." As per the trends, the ruling BJP has cemented its lead in the Gujarat Assembly polls. Congress appears to be a distant second. At 8 am, the voting began to determine who will form Gujarat's next government. The AAP wants to weaken the saffron party's dominance on the state while the BJP is aiming for its eighth straight term in power. Constituency Leading Candidate Leading Party Status Surat East ARVIND SHANTILAL RANA BJP Result Declared Surat North KANTIBHAI HIMMATBHAI BALAR BJP Result Declared Surat West PURNESH MODI BJP Result Declared Vadodara Assembly Election 2022 Result Live Updates: Akshay Patel, a current MLA for the BJP who had previously won the Karjan Assembly seat in Vadodara as a candidate for the Congress in 2017 and then moved to the BJP in 2020. Constituency Leading Candidate Leading Party Status Vadodara City MANISHA VAKIL BJP Result Declared Saurashtra Assembly Election 2022 Result Live Updates: 54 of the state's 182 assembly districts, including Morbi, Surendranagar, Kachchh, Rajkot, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Amreli, Bhavnagar, and Junagadh, are located in the Saurashtra area of Gujarat. It appears that despite the outrage over tragic Morbi incident, the saffron party still has a strong grip in the area. Constituency Leading Candidate Leading Party Status Morbi AMRUTIYA KANTILAL SHIVLAL BJP Result Declared Junagadh SANJAY SUKHABHAI KORADIA BJP Result Declared Jamnagar North RIVASINH HARDEVSINH SOLANKI BJP Result Awaited Jamnagar Rural PATEL RAGHAVJIBHAI BJP Result Declared Jamnagar South Akbari Divyeshbhai BJP Result Declared Amreli KAUSHIK KANTIBHAI VEKARIYA BJP Result Awaited Bhavnagar East SEJALBEN RAJIVKUMAR PANDYA BJP Result Declared Bhavnagar Rural PARSHOTTAMBHAI O. SOLANKI BJP Result Awaited Bhavnagar West JITENDRABHAI SAVAJIBHAI BJP Result Declared The polling for the Gujarat Assembly elections was held in two phases, on 1 December and 5 December. (This is a developing story, Live counting will be updated minute by minute)

Gujarat Election Results 2022 Live Counting: Who is winning in Saurashtra, Gandhinagar-Ahmedabad, Surat & more

The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan.&nbsp;According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand.

The resolution was introduced by Balochistan Awami Party’s during the session presided by acting Speaker Sardar Babar Khan Musakhail.

It was adopted unanimously, with members agreeing that the resolution will help ensure strict security in the country.

The resolution stated that not having a database of DNA with National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) creates difficulties in identifying criminals. It claimed that DNA-based ID cards are essential to track anti-social elements.

MPA Bushra of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), who presented the motion during the session, urged the state government to request the federal government to introduce mandatory DNA tests for the CNIC.

<h2>Pakistan eyes to amend 1952 Army Act in a bid to retain officials</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-eyes-to-amend-1952-army-act-in-a-bid-to-retain-officials-534717/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The house adopted the resolution without any opposition.

The CNIC card is vital to vote, access government benefits including public schools and healthcare, open a bank account or apply for jobs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dubai-based-businessman-says-toshakhana-gifts-given-to-ex-pm-imran-khan-sold-to-him-534670" hreflang="en">Businessman says Toshakhana gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him</a>

Each card has a 13-digit unique ID, containing photograph&nbsp;of the person, their signature, and a microchip that contains their iris scans and fingerprints.

Yet millions in Pakistan are still without a CNIC. According to Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability, a non-profit organization, almost 2.6 million women in the bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province do not have National ID cards.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-clash-after-afghan-kills-guard-at-border-crossing-closed-for-trade-534366" hreflang="en">Pakistan, Taliban clash after Afghan trader kills guard at border</a>

The situation is the same in other provinces and highlights how women are being deprived of equal identification in public life, reports to Daily Times newspaper.

In 2020, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted a worrisome survey about the status of women.&nbsp;It highlighted the prevalent gender disparity and sociocultural norms that place restrictions on women due to which they do not possess or are unable to possess national ID cards.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan. According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand.

The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan. According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand. The resolution was introduced by Balochistan Awami Party’s during the session presided by acting Speaker Sardar Babar Khan Musakhail. It was adopted unanimously, with members agreeing that the resolution will help ensure strict security in the country. The resolution stated that not having a database of DNA with National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) creates difficulties in identifying criminals. It claimed that DNA-based ID cards are essential to track anti-social elements. MPA Bushra of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), who presented the motion during the session, urged the state government to request the federal government to introduce mandatory DNA tests for the CNIC. Pakistan eyes to amend 1952 Army Act in a bid to retain officials The house adopted the resolution without any opposition. The CNIC card is vital to vote, access government benefits including public schools and healthcare, open a bank account or apply for jobs. Also read | Businessman says Toshakhana gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him Each card has a 13-digit unique ID, containing photograph of the person, their signature, and a microchip that contains their iris scans and fingerprints. Yet millions in Pakistan are still without a CNIC. According to Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability, a non-profit organization, almost 2.6 million women in the bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province do not have National ID cards. Also read | Pakistan, Taliban clash after Afghan trader kills guard at border The situation is the same in other provinces and highlights how women are being deprived of equal identification in public life, reports to Daily Times newspaper. In 2020, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted a worrisome survey about the status of women. It highlighted the prevalent gender disparity and sociocultural norms that place restrictions on women due to which they do not possess or are unable to possess national ID cards. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan: Balochistan Assembly passes resolution to make DNA test mandatory for national ID cards

Pakistan's national assembly witnessed a massive uproar as the opposition raised slogans and protested. Lawmakers also engaged in a fistfight over newly introduced bills.

Pakistan's national assembly breaks into chaos as lawmakers engage in a fistfight

New York's state Assembly hired the law firm Davis Polk&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wardwell LLP to lead its investigation into Governor Andrew Cuomo over sexual harassment allegations, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Judiciary Committee Chair Charles Lavine announced&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday.&nbsp;

Since Thursday, Chairman Lavine led a vigorous search for a top-flight firm to assist with the investigation. I have the utmost faith that Assemblymember Lavine and our Judiciary Committee will conduct a full and fair&nbsp;investigation,&nbsp;Heastie said in a statement.&nbsp;

Hiring Davis Polk will give the Committee the experience, independence and resources needed to handle this important investigation in a thorough and expeditious manner.&nbsp;

Leaders in the Democrat-controlled Assembly announced&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday that they would conduct an impeachment investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate&nbsp;behaviour&nbsp;by Cuomo, also a Democrat.&nbsp;

Attorney General Letitia James is also investigating claims that the governor sexually harassed or inappropriately touched several female aides.&nbsp;

Cuomo has denied touching any women inappropriately and has rebuffed calls for his resignation.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden said in an interview with ABC News on Tuesday that Cuomo should resign if the state attorney general's investigation confirms the claims against him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

New York's state Assembly hired the law firm Davis Polk and Wardwell LLP to lead its investigation into Governor Andrew Cuomo over sexual harassment allegations, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Judiciary Committee Chair Charles Lavine announced on Wednesday.

New York's state Assembly hired the law firm Davis Polk and Wardwell LLP to lead its investigation into Governor Andrew Cuomo over sexual harassment allegations, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Judiciary Committee Chair Charles Lavine announced on Wednesday. Since Thursday, Chairman Lavine led a vigorous search for a top-flight firm to assist with the investigation. I have the utmost faith that Assemblymember Lavine and our Judiciary Committee will conduct a full and fair investigation, Heastie said in a statement. Hiring Davis Polk will give the Committee the experience, independence and resources needed to handle this important investigation in a thorough and expeditious manner. Leaders in the Democrat-controlled Assembly announced on Thursday that they would conduct an impeachment investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour by Cuomo, also a Democrat. Attorney General Letitia James is also investigating claims that the governor sexually harassed or inappropriately touched several female aides. Cuomo has denied touching any women inappropriately and has rebuffed calls for his resignation. President Joe Biden said in an interview with ABC News on Tuesday that Cuomo should resign if the state attorney general's investigation confirms the claims against him. (With inputs from agencies)

NY state Assembly hires top law firm for Cuomo investigation 

Indian badminton star and former world no 1 player Saina Nehwal on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) taking a political plunge days before the Delhi Assembly Elections 2020.

Talking to the journalist during the press conference ace shuttler said that "PM Modi working hard for the country, he inspires me."&nbsp;

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Delhi: Badminton Player Saina Nehwal and her sister Chandranshu meet BJP Chief JP Nadda after joining the party earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/5Ds3pSjFNJ">https://t.co/5Ds3pSjFNJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/TnTCJ4zQV9">pic.twitter.com/TnTCJ4zQV9</a>
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Saina, who hails from Haryana, is one of the most famous sportspersons in India. The BJP took a question and answer session on Wednesday and declared that the badminton player has joined the party.&nbsp;

Saina, alongside PV Sindhu, is among the most prolific young ladies of badminton in India. Her incorporation is planned for adjusting the young to the BJP, said, specialists. Be that as it may, her joining the BJP doesn't come as a shock as the badminton star has over and over tweeted applauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Last year, a number of sportspersons including cricketer Gautam Gambhir and Commonwealth Games medal-winning wrestler Babita Phogat had joined BJP.

Indian badminton star and former world no 1 player Saina Nehwal on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) taking a political plunge days before the Delhi Assembly Elections 2020.

Indian badminton star and former world no 1 player Saina Nehwal on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) taking a political plunge days before the Delhi Assembly Elections 2020. Talking to the journalist during the press conference ace shuttler said that "PM Modi working hard for the country, he inspires me." Delhi: Badminton Player Saina Nehwal and her sister Chandranshu meet BJP Chief JP Nadda after joining the party earlier today. https://t.co/5Ds3pSjFNJ pic.twitter.com/TnTCJ4zQV9 — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2020 × Saina, who hails from Haryana, is one of the most famous sportspersons in India. The BJP took a question and answer session on Wednesday and declared that the badminton player has joined the party. Saina, alongside PV Sindhu, is among the most prolific young ladies of badminton in India. Her incorporation is planned for adjusting the young to the BJP, said, specialists. Be that as it may, her joining the BJP doesn't come as a shock as the badminton star has over and over tweeted applauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Last year, a number of sportspersons including cricketer Gautam Gambhir and Commonwealth Games medal-winning wrestler Babita Phogat had joined BJP.

Saina Nehwal joins BJP, says PM Modi inspires me

The first phase of polling for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-janshakti-party-releases-third-list-of-24-candidates-for-jharkhand-assembly-polls-264865">Assembly elections</a>&nbsp;began today in Jharkhand. The phase encompasses 13 constituencies spread across six districts, with voting slated to last until 3 pm.

37 lakh people are eligible to vote in these elections, to decide the fate of 189 candidates, including 15 female candidates in the first phase of Assembly elections, said Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vinay Kumar Choubey on Friday.

The constituencies where polling is taking place are Chatra, Gumla, Bishunpur, Lohardaga, Manika, Latehar, Panki, Daltonganj, Bishrampur, Chhatarpur, Hussainabad, Garhwa and Bhawanathpur. 
 
Security measures have been taken to avoid any issues. "Adequate security has been ensured in all polling booths across the constituencies which will go to polls in the first phase. Special arrangements have been made for the specially-abled voters," Choubey said. 
 
The district administration in Jharkhand has tightened the security in two assembly constituencies, Latehar and Manika, where a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-completely-uproot-naxalism-in-jharkhand-amit-shah-265107">Naxal attack</a> took place a few days ago.

The authorities expressed confidence in arrangements that have been made to conduct the elections peacefully.

As many as 67 assembly constituencies are "very extremely" to "extremely" affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE), Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora had said.

"We have completed our security preparations, whether it is security or dispatch. Security forces at required places have also been deployed. We are ready to conduct the poll peacefully. Hypersensitive booths have been further divided into clusters, superclusters and zones," Deputy Commissioner of Latehar, Zeeshan Qamar told ANI on Thursday. 
 
Jharkhand, an 81-member assembly, will have polls in five phases up to December 20.&nbsp; 
 
Incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das, who became the first CM of the state to complete a full term in office, is seeking another five-year term.

The tenure of the current Assembly ends on January 5, 2020. 
 
Apart from the BJP, Congress, JMM (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha) and RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) are major players in the state Assembly elections. The Congress, JMM and RJD are contesting the polls together.

This is the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-jharkhand-manifesto-lays-emphasis-on-skill-education-264950">fourth Assembly election</a> in Jharkhand since the state was carved out in 2000.

The votes will be counted on December 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

The first phase of polling for Assembly elections began today in Jharkhand. The phase encompasses 13 constituencies spread across six districts, with voting slated to last until 3 pm.

The first phase of polling for Assembly elections began today in Jharkhand. The phase encompasses 13 constituencies spread across six districts, with voting slated to last until 3 pm. 37 lakh people are eligible to vote in these elections, to decide the fate of 189 candidates, including 15 female candidates in the first phase of Assembly elections, said Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vinay Kumar Choubey on Friday. The constituencies where polling is taking place are Chatra, Gumla, Bishunpur, Lohardaga, Manika, Latehar, Panki, Daltonganj, Bishrampur, Chhatarpur, Hussainabad, Garhwa and Bhawanathpur. Security measures have been taken to avoid any issues. "Adequate security has been ensured in all polling booths across the constituencies which will go to polls in the first phase. Special arrangements have been made for the specially-abled voters," Choubey said. The district administration in Jharkhand has tightened the security in two assembly constituencies, Latehar and Manika, where a Naxal attack took place a few days ago. The authorities expressed confidence in arrangements that have been made to conduct the elections peacefully. As many as 67 assembly constituencies are "very extremely" to "extremely" affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE), Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora had said. "We have completed our security preparations, whether it is security or dispatch. Security forces at required places have also been deployed. We are ready to conduct the poll peacefully. Hypersensitive booths have been further divided into clusters, superclusters and zones," Deputy Commissioner of Latehar, Zeeshan Qamar told ANI on Thursday. Jharkhand, an 81-member assembly, will have polls in five phases up to December 20. Incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das, who became the first CM of the state to complete a full term in office, is seeking another five-year term. The tenure of the current Assembly ends on January 5, 2020. Apart from the BJP, Congress, JMM (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha) and RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) are major players in the state Assembly elections. The Congress, JMM and RJD are contesting the polls together. This is the fourth Assembly election in Jharkhand since the state was carved out in 2000. The votes will be counted on December 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Jharkhand Assembly elections: First phase of polling begins

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them.&nbsp;

"If Congress gives support to Shiv Sena, they should not disturb it for the next five years, only then people will trust the Congress party," Gowda told ANI when he was asked about the political situation in Maharashtra.

"Bal Thackeray gave place to the BJP in Maharashtra, LK Advani and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee went to Balasaheb`s residence and requested him for seats in the state. Today the BJP overrode that and that is why Uddhav Thackeray has taken a stand that he will teach them a lesson. Now, it`s for Congress and NCP to put the BJP down," he said.

After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to express its ability for government formation.

The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly.&nbsp;

On being asked about by-polls in Karnataka, Gowda said, "We have to see what decision is given by the Supreme Court." "If there are elections we are going to contest on all 15 seats. I cannot predict how many seats we are going to win but we are certainly going to give a good performance," he added.

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them.

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them. "If Congress gives support to Shiv Sena, they should not disturb it for the next five years, only then people will trust the Congress party," Gowda told ANI when he was asked about the political situation in Maharashtra. "Bal Thackeray gave place to the BJP in Maharashtra, LK Advani and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee went to Balasaheb`s residence and requested him for seats in the state. Today the BJP overrode that and that is why Uddhav Thackeray has taken a stand that he will teach them a lesson. Now, it`s for Congress and NCP to put the BJP down," he said. After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to express its ability for government formation. The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. On being asked about by-polls in Karnataka, Gowda said, "We have to see what decision is given by the Supreme Court." "If there are elections we are going to contest on all 15 seats. I cannot predict how many seats we are going to win but we are certainly going to give a good performance," he added.

If Congress supports Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, they should do it for 5 years, says Deve Gowda

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats.

As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again.

"I am confident that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats, opposition has lost all credibility and is nowhere in the contest. People are with Modi and Fadnavis. In Haryana, we are getting to see our target of 75-plus seats," Goyal told media here.

Polling for 90 seats of Haryana and 288 constituencies of Maharashtra began at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm in the evening.

The electoral fate of over 4400 candidates- 1169 in Haryana and 3237 in Maharashtra will be sealed in EVMs by the voters who will exercise their democratic franchise in the assembly elections.

In Haryana, 19,578 polling stations have been set up whereas there are 96,661 polling booths in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats. As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats. As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again. "I am confident that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats, opposition has lost all credibility and is nowhere in the contest. People are with Modi and Fadnavis. In Haryana, we are getting to see our target of 75-plus seats," Goyal told media here. Polling for 90 seats of Haryana and 288 constituencies of Maharashtra began at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm in the evening. The electoral fate of over 4400 candidates- 1169 in Haryana and 3237 in Maharashtra will be sealed in EVMs by the voters who will exercise their democratic franchise in the assembly elections. In Haryana, 19,578 polling stations have been set up whereas there are 96,661 polling booths in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes.

BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats: Piyush Goyal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused the Indian National Congress of playing petty politics over the Rafale and abolition of Article 370 issues.

Prime Minister was addressing a political rally in poll-bound Haryana's Kurukshetra.&nbsp;

'Whenever the country is happy about something, the leaders of INC have problems. It is not limited to Rafale only. But whenever the nation gets appreciation and is praised, it evokes a negative reaction from the 
Congress,' PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"On Dussehra, India got the first Rafale jet in France. You tell me when were you happy or not when the Air Force got Rafale. You are feeling proud that our force got Rafale. 125 crore citizens are proud of it. But the Congress people always have a problem when people are happy. This thing causes them pain. This is not limited to Rafale only," he said.&nbsp;

"The attitude of Congress leaders is always negative to everything which earns accolades for India. When India gets an award for cleanliness, they have a problem. They also have a problem when world leaders come to the programme of Indian leaders," he added.

Congress had vociferously raised the Rafale deal issue in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, alleging that the cost of a fighter jet in the deal concluded by the Modi government was higher than that negotiated by the Congress-led UPA government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused the Indian National Congress of playing petty politics over the Rafale and abolition of Article 370 issues. Prime Minister was addressing a political rally in poll-bound Haryana's Kurukshetra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused the Indian National Congress of playing petty politics over the Rafale and abolition of Article 370 issues. Prime Minister was addressing a political rally in poll-bound Haryana's Kurukshetra. 'Whenever the country is happy about something, the leaders of INC have problems. It is not limited to Rafale only. But whenever the nation gets appreciation and is praised, it evokes a negative reaction from the Congress,' PM Modi said. "On Dussehra, India got the first Rafale jet in France. You tell me when were you happy or not when the Air Force got Rafale. You are feeling proud that our force got Rafale. 125 crore citizens are proud of it. But the Congress people always have a problem when people are happy. This thing causes them pain. This is not limited to Rafale only," he said. "The attitude of Congress leaders is always negative to everything which earns accolades for India. When India gets an award for cleanliness, they have a problem. They also have a problem when world leaders come to the programme of Indian leaders," he added. Congress had vociferously raised the Rafale deal issue in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, alleging that the cost of a fighter jet in the deal concluded by the Modi government was higher than that negotiated by the Congress-led UPA government. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Narendra Modi blasts Congress, says they have a negative attitude

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-led-govt-in-karnataka-in-trouble-as-11-ruling-party-lawmakers-resign-233558"> political drama in Karnataka</a> entered its fourth week on Monday with the Congress-JD(S) coalition government employing all tactics to delay the trust vote.

After a long day replete with repetitive arguments and noisy disruptions that went up to 11.45pm, the Speaker finally adjourned the house to 10am on Tuesday.

It is now decided that the discussions will conclude by 4pm followed by CM'S response, eventually concluding the trust vote by 6pm.

A disappointed BJP lashed out at the Speaker for delaying the trust vote by another day. 'Is there no value for our demands at all?' questioned an emotional Madhu Swamy, BJP leader.

'It was a long discussion during which lot of members presented their views. Many members are yet to speak on the trust vote. That is the reason the trust vote has been delayed by another day. It will be completed tomorrow' said Eshwar Khandre, Congress leader.

The Congress and JD(S) are hopeful for a favourable decision from the Supreme Court on clarity sought over the effectiveness of party whip that has been issued for the trust vote.

The Supreme Court in its order last week had said the rebel MLAs were not compelled to attend the session, essentially insulating them from the whip.

If the party's right to issue a whip is upheld, the coalition plans to use it as a pressure tactic to lure back the MLAs with the threat of disqualification.

The petition is likely to be heard alongside another petition filed by the two independent MLAs who had sought the floor test to be conducted by the end of Monday.

Also, the Speaker's decision on the whip came as a shot in the arm to the struggling coalition on Monday.

'Karnataka Speaker has upheld the sanctity of the whip and says it’s applicable as per 10th schedule of the Constitution. He ruled that the Supreme Court interim order in no way protects the rebel MLAs if they violate the Whip' tweeted Dinesh Gundu Rao, Karnataka Congress President.

By hook and by crook the coalition has managed to give itself another lease of life, albeit for just a day. Can it manage to survive the trust vote after the multiple delays? We will hopefully know on Tuesday.

The political drama in Karnataka entered its fourth week on Monday with the Congress-JD(S) coalition government employing all tactics to delay the trust vote. After a long day replete with repetitive arguments and noisy disruptions that went up to 11.

The political drama in Karnataka entered its fourth week on Monday with the Congress-JD(S) coalition government employing all tactics to delay the trust vote. After a long day replete with repetitive arguments and noisy disruptions that went up to 11.45pm, the Speaker finally adjourned the house to 10am on Tuesday. It is now decided that the discussions will conclude by 4pm followed by CM'S response, eventually concluding the trust vote by 6pm. A disappointed BJP lashed out at the Speaker for delaying the trust vote by another day. 'Is there no value for our demands at all?' questioned an emotional Madhu Swamy, BJP leader. 'It was a long discussion during which lot of members presented their views. Many members are yet to speak on the trust vote. That is the reason the trust vote has been delayed by another day. It will be completed tomorrow' said Eshwar Khandre, Congress leader. The Congress and JD(S) are hopeful for a favourable decision from the Supreme Court on clarity sought over the effectiveness of party whip that has been issued for the trust vote. The Supreme Court in its order last week had said the rebel MLAs were not compelled to attend the session, essentially insulating them from the whip. If the party's right to issue a whip is upheld, the coalition plans to use it as a pressure tactic to lure back the MLAs with the threat of disqualification. The petition is likely to be heard alongside another petition filed by the two independent MLAs who had sought the floor test to be conducted by the end of Monday. Also, the Speaker's decision on the whip came as a shot in the arm to the struggling coalition on Monday. 'Karnataka Speaker has upheld the sanctity of the whip and says it’s applicable as per 10th schedule of the Constitution. He ruled that the Supreme Court interim order in no way protects the rebel MLAs if they violate the Whip' tweeted Dinesh Gundu Rao, Karnataka Congress President. By hook and by crook the coalition has managed to give itself another lease of life, albeit for just a day. Can it manage to survive the trust vote after the multiple delays? We will hopefully know on Tuesday.

Karnataka crisis: Trust vote in Vidhana Soudha expected to take place before 6pm today

The ruling coalition and the opposition MLAs were on Monday locked in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-security-beefed-up-around-vidhana-soudha-ahead-of-trust-vote-237568">heated debate in the Assembly</a> over whether the vote on the confidence motion should be taken up tonight or tomorrow.

Leader of Oppositions BS Yeddyurappa demanded that the motion should be put to vote as "we are prepared to sit till midnight for the same" in the Assembly.

This was objected by the Congress MLAs, who started shouting slogans.

Congress MLA HK Patil informed the House about a pending court case and said that a debate should be done after this.

"After the Supreme Court takes a decision tomorrow, then it'll be right to speak and debate on this issue (trust vote)," Patil said.

However, his suggestion was strongly objected by Speaker KR Ramesh, who said, "Don't push me to a point where I will have to make a decision without asking you. The consequences will be disastrous."

Speaking in the Assembly, Madhu Swamy, MLA from Chiknayakanhalli constituency, stressed on trust vote, irrespective of presence or absence of rebel MLAs.

"It's not our duty to prove the numbers but it's their choice. It doesn't matter if the rebels will come or won't. SC is well aware of the no-confidence motion," he said.

"We could have questioned them but we didn't. We could have argued regarding the Whip applying to the rebels or not. But we didn't. We are against the matters, which are seized up in the SC," added Swamy.

Addressing the House after BJP lawmaker, Public Works Minister H D Revanna said: "CM had moved the trust vote motion. We're not dragging it but it's the BJP. We didn't go to the SC but it was the rebels. They said we cannot compel the MLAs to come for the Session and Siddaramaiah has spoken about our issues."

BJP lawmaker Madhu Swamy then urged the House to finish the trust vote by today itself.

"Please finish it today to save everyone's dignity," he said.

To this, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy responded sharply: "What do you mean by saving everyone's dignity? What have we done? We got to know everything about yourself this morning."

Later while speaking to reporters, Congress leader DK Shivakumar said, "The Speaker has served notice to rebel MLAs, giving them time till 11 am tomorrow. BJP is trying to convince them that they won't be disqualified and they will be made ministers. As per the Constitution of India, you can't be made a member once you are disqualified."

The ruling coalition and the opposition MLAs were on Monday locked in a heated debate in the Assembly over whether the vote on the confidence motion should be taken up tonight or tomorrow.

The ruling coalition and the opposition MLAs were on Monday locked in a heated debate in the Assembly over whether the vote on the confidence motion should be taken up tonight or tomorrow. Leader of Oppositions BS Yeddyurappa demanded that the motion should be put to vote as "we are prepared to sit till midnight for the same" in the Assembly. This was objected by the Congress MLAs, who started shouting slogans. Congress MLA HK Patil informed the House about a pending court case and said that a debate should be done after this. "After the Supreme Court takes a decision tomorrow, then it'll be right to speak and debate on this issue (trust vote)," Patil said. However, his suggestion was strongly objected by Speaker KR Ramesh, who said, "Don't push me to a point where I will have to make a decision without asking you. The consequences will be disastrous." Speaking in the Assembly, Madhu Swamy, MLA from Chiknayakanhalli constituency, stressed on trust vote, irrespective of presence or absence of rebel MLAs. "It's not our duty to prove the numbers but it's their choice. It doesn't matter if the rebels will come or won't. SC is well aware of the no-confidence motion," he said. "We could have questioned them but we didn't. We could have argued regarding the Whip applying to the rebels or not. But we didn't. We are against the matters, which are seized up in the SC," added Swamy. Addressing the House after BJP lawmaker, Public Works Minister H D Revanna said: "CM had moved the trust vote motion. We're not dragging it but it's the BJP. We didn't go to the SC but it was the rebels. They said we cannot compel the MLAs to come for the Session and Siddaramaiah has spoken about our issues." BJP lawmaker Madhu Swamy then urged the House to finish the trust vote by today itself. "Please finish it today to save everyone's dignity," he said. To this, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy responded sharply: "What do you mean by saving everyone's dignity? What have we done? We got to know everything about yourself this morning." Later while speaking to reporters, Congress leader DK Shivakumar said, "The Speaker has served notice to rebel MLAs, giving them time till 11 am tomorrow. BJP is trying to convince them that they won't be disqualified and they will be made ministers. As per the Constitution of India, you can't be made a member once you are disqualified."

Karnataka crisis: Ruling and Opposition MLAs lock horns over trust vote; Session to continue till midnight

Although the first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was conducted smoothly and saw a significant voter turnout, voters in a village in Dantewada district were seen removing the electoral ink mark from their fingers, fearing their lives.

Naxals in the region near the Indrawati River of Dantewada had threatened to chop off the fingers of villagers if they cast their votes. But despite the threat, a large number of people visited polling booths to exercise their franchise.

Addressing the issue, Dantewada SP Abhishek Pallav said that following the threats of the Naxals, they had to relocate seven booths located near the Indrawati River. However, voters, he said, travelled the extra mile to cast their votes.

"Seven booths near Indrawati River were shifted after the threats of the Naxals. We are planning to set up a camp before the Lok Sabha polls so that the people can take shelter there and cast their votes without the threats from the Naxals," he told ANI.

The first phase of Assembly elections was held in Chhattisgarh on November 12, where 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 are reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat.

The remaining 72 constituencies in the state will go to polls on November 20.

The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

Although the first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was conducted smoothly and saw a significant voter turnout, voters in a village in Dantewada district were seen removing the electoral ink mark from their fingers, fearing their lives.

Although the first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was conducted smoothly and saw a significant voter turnout, voters in a village in Dantewada district were seen removing the electoral ink mark from their fingers, fearing their lives. Naxals in the region near the Indrawati River of Dantewada had threatened to chop off the fingers of villagers if they cast their votes. But despite the threat, a large number of people visited polling booths to exercise their franchise. Addressing the issue, Dantewada SP Abhishek Pallav said that following the threats of the Naxals, they had to relocate seven booths located near the Indrawati River. However, voters, he said, travelled the extra mile to cast their votes. "Seven booths near Indrawati River were shifted after the threats of the Naxals. We are planning to set up a camp before the Lok Sabha polls so that the people can take shelter there and cast their votes without the threats from the Naxals," he told ANI. The first phase of Assembly elections was held in Chhattisgarh on November 12, where 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 are reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. The remaining 72 constituencies in the state will go to polls on November 20. The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

Chhattisgarh Assembly Election 2018: Amid Naxal threats, voters desperately attempt to remove ink

At least 76 per cent of the licensed gun owners have deposited their arms to the police in Mizoram ahead of the November 28 Assembly elections, a senior police officer said Tuesday.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) L H Shanliana said that 10,337 licensed gun owners had deposited their firearms in various police stations across Mizoram.

The deputy commissioners of all the districts in the state had issued orders asking all registered gun owners to deposit their firearms before the Assembly elections as per a directive issued by the Election Commission of India.

Shanliana hoped that all licensed gun owners, including farmers, would deposit their firearms before the polls though the farmers need guns to protect their jhums (cultivation) from animals at this time of the year.

"We have received excellent cooperation from the village councils in the rural areas and the local councils in the capital Aizawl city," he said.

Keeping in mind the gun owners' sentiments about their guns, he said they would be able to check and clean their firearms whenever they want to do so by visiting the respective police stations and outposts.

The IGP said that DGPs of neighbouring Assam, Tripura and Manipur have been asked to ensure that no persons or materials that could disrupt the poll process in Mizoram should be allowed to enter the state.

Superintendents of police and officers-in-charge of border districts have been put on high alert.

Close circuit television cameras were in place in the border outposts at Assam border Vairengte, Saiphai and Bairabi and Tripura border Zawlnuam Police outposts, the IGP added.&nbsp;

At least 76 per cent of the licensed gun owners have deposited their arms to the police in Mizoram ahead of the November 28 Assembly elections, a senior police officer said Tuesday.

At least 76 per cent of the licensed gun owners have deposited their arms to the police in Mizoram ahead of the November 28 Assembly elections, a senior police officer said Tuesday. Inspector General of Police (IGP) L H Shanliana said that 10,337 licensed gun owners had deposited their firearms in various police stations across Mizoram. The deputy commissioners of all the districts in the state had issued orders asking all registered gun owners to deposit their firearms before the Assembly elections as per a directive issued by the Election Commission of India. Shanliana hoped that all licensed gun owners, including farmers, would deposit their firearms before the polls though the farmers need guns to protect their jhums (cultivation) from animals at this time of the year. "We have received excellent cooperation from the village councils in the rural areas and the local councils in the capital Aizawl city," he said. Keeping in mind the gun owners' sentiments about their guns, he said they would be able to check and clean their firearms whenever they want to do so by visiting the respective police stations and outposts. The IGP said that DGPs of neighbouring Assam, Tripura and Manipur have been asked to ensure that no persons or materials that could disrupt the poll process in Mizoram should be allowed to enter the state. Superintendents of police and officers-in-charge of border districts have been put on high alert. Close circuit television cameras were in place in the border outposts at Assam border Vairengte, Saiphai and Bairabi and Tripura border Zawlnuam Police outposts, the IGP added.

Mizoram Assembly Election 2018: 76% licensed gun owners deposit arms in poll-bound state

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

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-bypolls-counting-begins-in-4-seats-bjps-big-test-in-kairana-palghar-and-bhandara-gondiya-141130">Lok Sabha </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-bypolls-counting-begins-in-4-seats-bjps-big-test-in-kairana-palghar-and-bhandara-gondiya-141130">bypolls</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-bypolls-counting-begins-in-4-seats-bjps-big-test-in-kairana-palghar-and-bhandara-gondiya-141130">: Counting begins in 4 seats BJP's big test in Kairana, Palghar and Bhandara-Gondiya</a>

Counting of votes in 4 Lok Sabha bypoll seats began on Thursday morning. The bypolls were held on Monday in Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, Palghar and Bhandara-Gondiya in Maharashtra and in a single seat in Nagaland.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-10-assembly-bypolls-results-d-day-for-bjp-trinamool-battles-left-bjp-in-west-bengal-141132">Assembly </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-10-assembly-bypolls-results-d-day-for-bjp-trinamool-battles-left-bjp-in-west-bengal-141132">bypoll</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/live-10-assembly-bypolls-results-d-day-for-bjp-trinamool-battles-left-bjp-in-west-bengal-141132"> results: Congress clinches Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon</a>

Counting of votes for 10 Assembly bypolls began on Thursday morning. Congress' Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam was "elected unopposed" from Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon Assembly constituency.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/nipah-virus-scare-one-more-dead-death-toll-mounts-to-15-in-kerala-141133">Nipah virus scare: One more dead, death toll mounts to 15 in Kerala</a>

The deadly Nipah virus has claimed one more life in Kerala taking the death toll to 15 today. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a soldier in Kolkata died due to suspected Nipah virus infection, reports said.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/fuel-prices-drop-further-petrol-by-7-paisa-and-diesel-by-5-141124">Fuel prices drop further, petrol by 7 </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/fuel-prices-drop-further-petrol-by-7-paisa-and-diesel-by-5-141124">paisa</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/fuel-prices-drop-further-petrol-by-7-paisa-and-diesel-by-5-141124"> and diesel by 5</a>

After a mere 1 paisa cut in fuel prices on Wednesday, petrol and diesel costs saw a further drop on Thursday morning. Fuel prices dropped by 7 paisa in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, settling at Rs 78.35, Rs 86.16, Rs 80.98 and Rs 81.35 per litre respectively.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trumps-india-initiative-us-pacific-command-renamed-us-indo-pacific-command-141123">Trump's India initiative: US Pacific Command renamed US Indo-Pacific Command</a>

In a move to boost India and United States defence cooperation, the US today renamed the Pacific Command as US Indo-Pacific Command.

&nbsp

Lok Sabha bypolls: Counting begins in 4 seats BJP's big test in Kairana, Palghar and Bhandara-Gondiya Counting of votes in 4 Lok Sabha bypoll seats began on Thursday morning. The bypolls were held on Monday in Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, Palghar and Bhandara-Gondiya in Maharashtra and in a single seat in Nagaland. Assembly bypoll results: Congress clinches Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon Counting of votes for 10 Assembly bypolls began on Thursday morning. Congress' Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam was "elected unopposed" from Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon Assembly constituency. Nipah virus scare: One more dead, death toll mounts to 15 in Kerala The deadly Nipah virus has claimed one more life in Kerala taking the death toll to 15 today. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a soldier in Kolkata died due to suspected Nipah virus infection, reports said. Fuel prices drop further, petrol by 7 paisa and diesel by 5 After a mere 1 paisa cut in fuel prices on Wednesday, petrol and diesel costs saw a further drop on Thursday morning. Fuel prices dropped by 7 paisa in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, settling at Rs 78.35, Rs 86.16, Rs 80.98 and Rs 81.35 per litre respectively. Trump's India initiative: US Pacific Command renamed US Indo-Pacific Command In a move to boost India and United States defence cooperation, the US today renamed the Pacific Command as US Indo-Pacific Command.

News brief: Big stories of the day

HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy and the Gandhis will discuss the nitty gritties of government formation in the southern state.&nbsp;

News reports said Monday that the Congress — which has 78 MLAs, the JD(S) now has 37 after Kumaraswamy gave up the second seat he contested from — is expected to end up with 20 ministers in the 33-member cabinet.&nbsp;

News reports added that Karnataka could get two deputy chief ministers. It had earlier been decided that the deputy chief ministership would go to a Dalit, with the Congress's G Parameshwara expected to fill the post.&nbsp;

There has now been a second demand for a Lingayat to be made deputy chief minister, which may lead to the state having two of them.&nbsp;

The reports added that the Congress would make no demands of the JD(S) in order to keep the coalition stable.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Kumaraswamy termed reports of a power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the two parties as "bogus".

"I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow...I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters in Bengaluru.

Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added.

BS Yeddyurappa had on Saturday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met Governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government.

The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats.

While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports.

He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove his majority on the floor of the House.

"Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of Speaker's election and trust vote," he added.

After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21.

But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature).

However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the Chief Secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue.

Kumaraswamy met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence on Sunday and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them.

Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place."

On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus".

"It is a bogus news...No such discussions have taken place. Winning Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said.

While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate.

(With inputs from PTI)

Kumaraswamy will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday. He is expected to take his floor test on Thursday

HD Kumaraswamy, who will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, will be in Delhi today to meet Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Kumaraswamy and the Gandhis will discuss the nitty gritties of government formation in the southern state. News reports said Monday that the Congress — which has 78 MLAs, the JD(S) now has 37 after Kumaraswamy gave up the second seat he contested from — is expected to end up with 20 ministers in the 33-member cabinet. News reports added that Karnataka could get two deputy chief ministers. It had earlier been decided that the deputy chief ministership would go to a Dalit, with the Congress's G Parameshwara expected to fill the post. There has now been a second demand for a Lingayat to be made deputy chief minister, which may lead to the state having two of them. The reports added that the Congress would make no demands of the JD(S) in order to keep the coalition stable. On Sunday, Kumaraswamy termed reports of a power-sharing formula of 30 months each between the two parties as "bogus". "I'm visiting New Delhi tomorrow...I will meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi and the party's senior leader Sonia Gandhi," he told reporters in Bengaluru. Based on the outcome of discussions with them, a decision will be taken on the number of Congress and JD(S) MLAs who will become ministers, Kumaraswamy added. BS Yeddyurappa had on Saturday stepped down as the chief minister without facing the floor test in the state assembly as the BJP fell short of numbers, following which Kumaraswamy met Governor Vajubhai Vala, and said he had been invited to form the government. The May 12 Karnataka assembly polls threw up a hung assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party with 104 seats. While making it clear that there have been no discussions yet on the portfolio allocation, Kumaraswamy requested the media not to create confusion among the public and MLAs with such "speculative" reports. He also asserted that within 24 hours of taking oath, he would prove his majority on the floor of the House. "Mostly on Wednesday there will be oath-taking ceremony after that on Thursday we will complete the process of Speaker's election and trust vote," he added. After meeting the governor, Kumaraswamy had said the swearing-in ceremony would take place tentatively between 12 noon and 1.50 pm at Kanteerava stadium on May 21. But, later he announced that the event would be held on May 23 as May 21 happens to be the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The venue of the swearing-in is also likely to be changed, with party sources now saying it is likely to take place at Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature). However, Kumaraswamy said he had spoken to the Chief Secretary and other senior officials about it and they would take a call on the venue. Kumaraswamy met his father and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda at his residence on Sunday and later visited the hotel where JD(S) MLAs are camping and held a meeting with them. Asked about reports on power-sharing formula of 30 months each that is being worked out with the Congress, Kumaraswamy said, "No such talks have taken place." On reports about parleys with Congress leaders regarding elections in Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagar assembly constituencies, Kumarasamy described it as "bogus". "It is a bogus news...No such discussions have taken place. Winning Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Jayanagara is a necessity. Till now, no such discussions have happened," he said. While polling was deferred in Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency over allegations of electoral malpractice, election to Jayanagar seat was countermanded following the death of the BJP candidate. (With inputs from PTI)

Kumaraswamy to meet Sonia, Rahul Gandhi today in Delhi

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy".

Yeddyurappa admitted he had expected opposition MLAs to cross-vote. To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, he said he asked members for a vote of conscience.

"It is true that I had spoken to a few of them (in the opposition)," Yeddyurappa said.

Stating that BJP believes in the democratic system, he said he had expected MLAs "on the other side" would understand that in today's political situation, things would change if his government came to power, when the Narendra&nbsp;Modi government is at the Centre. "Some people had agreed to cooperate," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hd-kumaraswamy-to-take-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-on-monday-138283">HD Kumaraswamy to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23</a>&nbsp;

He however added, "Who am I to question in politics? Expectation is different, there may be differences." Assuring people that "till his last breath", he will travel across Karnataka, he said he would explain the developments and ensure that the party wins all 28 seats of the state in the Lok Sabha elections next year and "give it as a gift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi".

Yeddyurappa, who announced his decision without facing the trust vote after not being able to rustle up the numbers, charged that the JDS-combine had kept the MLAs in captivity.

"You kept MLAs in captivity. The situation of those MLAs was so pitiable that they could not speak to their families on phone," he said in his speech after moving the motion of confidence to face the trial of strength.Taunting Congress and JDS, a glum-looking Yeddyurappa said, "Today the family members may be a bit happy as they are seeing them (MLAs)."

Governor Vajubhai Vala had given a 15-day window to Yeddyurappa, but it was truncated by the Supreme Court, which ordered that the floor test be held within a day itself. Yeddyurappa said the Congress did not get people's mandate, nor did the JDS.

He said those who traded charges and counter-charges, after being defeated at the hustings, were indulging in "opportunistic politics"&nbsp;against the people's mandate and had come to an understanding.

The Governor had invited the BJP as it had emerged as the single largest party, Yeddyurappa said.

"I feel today it is like agni pareekshe (trial by fire).

It is not the first time. All my life it has been agni pareekshe," he said, tracing the journey of the BJP when it had only two members and the present state it had reached.

"If people of the state had thought for a second and had given us 113 seats, the picture of this state would have changed, and the picture of development would have changed.But God's will was different" he said on a philosophical note.

To Kumaraswamy, he said "I have come through struggle. Someone said if you don't give me power I will end my life...I won't say that. Whether I get power or not, I will give my life for the people."

Yeddyurappa said he is indebted to people who have shown him love. "Due to our Congress' friends conspiracy, the public mandate and democratic system has been subverted," he said.

"In the wake of this, I'm not pressing this motion of confidence, and I will resign. I will go to people against this politics of anti democracy and seek justice. I will directly go to the Governor and submit my resignation as Chief Minister," he said.&nbsp;

To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, Yeddyurappa said he asked opposition MLAs for a vote of conscience

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy". Yeddyurappa admitted he had expected opposition MLAs to cross-vote. To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, he said he asked members for a vote of conscience. "It is true that I had spoken to a few of them (in the opposition)," Yeddyurappa said. Stating that BJP believes in the democratic system, he said he had expected MLAs "on the other side" would understand that in today's political situation, things would change if his government came to power, when the Narendra Modi government is at the Centre. "Some people had agreed to cooperate," he said. Also read: HD Kumaraswamy to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23 He however added, "Who am I to question in politics? Expectation is different, there may be differences." Assuring people that "till his last breath", he will travel across Karnataka, he said he would explain the developments and ensure that the party wins all 28 seats of the state in the Lok Sabha elections next year and "give it as a gift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi". Yeddyurappa, who announced his decision without facing the trust vote after not being able to rustle up the numbers, charged that the JDS-combine had kept the MLAs in captivity. "You kept MLAs in captivity. The situation of those MLAs was so pitiable that they could not speak to their families on phone," he said in his speech after moving the motion of confidence to face the trial of strength.Taunting Congress and JDS, a glum-looking Yeddyurappa said, "Today the family members may be a bit happy as they are seeing them (MLAs)." Governor Vajubhai Vala had given a 15-day window to Yeddyurappa, but it was truncated by the Supreme Court, which ordered that the floor test be held within a day itself. Yeddyurappa said the Congress did not get people's mandate, nor did the JDS. He said those who traded charges and counter-charges, after being defeated at the hustings, were indulging in "opportunistic politics" against the people's mandate and had come to an understanding. The Governor had invited the BJP as it had emerged as the single largest party, Yeddyurappa said. "I feel today it is like agni pareekshe (trial by fire). It is not the first time. All my life it has been agni pareekshe," he said, tracing the journey of the BJP when it had only two members and the present state it had reached. "If people of the state had thought for a second and had given us 113 seats, the picture of this state would have changed, and the picture of development would have changed.But God's will was different" he said on a philosophical note. To Kumaraswamy, he said "I have come through struggle. Someone said if you don't give me power I will end my life...I won't say that. Whether I get power or not, I will give my life for the people." Yeddyurappa said he is indebted to people who have shown him love. "Due to our Congress' friends conspiracy, the public mandate and democratic system has been subverted," he said. "In the wake of this, I'm not pressing this motion of confidence, and I will resign. I will go to people against this politics of anti democracy and seek justice. I will directly go to the Governor and submit my resignation as Chief Minister," he said.

Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state.

“We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly.

Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it.

The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state.

The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority.

The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221.

Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places.

The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority.

Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess&nbsp;termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces".

(With inputs from PTI)

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state. “We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly. Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it. The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state. The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority. The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221. Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places. The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority. Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House. Meanwhile, Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces". (With inputs from PTI)

We are awaiting governor’s invite, says JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy

The drama in Karnataka will continue on Wednesday with both the JD(S)-Congress combine and the BJP meeting Governor Vajubhai Vala today to stake their claims to forming a government.&nbsp;

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy had met Governor Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah.&nbsp;

The Congress told Vala that it was giving the JD(S) its "unconditional support".&nbsp;

But the BJP's chief ministerial candidate got to Vala before Kumaraswamy, and he too staked his claim to forming the government.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-does-a-goa-in-karnataka-137130">Congress does to BJP in Karnataka what latter did to it in Goa</a>

The Karnataka vote, which was counted yesterday, ended with the BJP emerging as the single largest party.&nbsp;

The party won 104 seats, the Congress won 78, the JD(S) won 37, its pre-poll ally the BSP won 1, and Others 2.&nbsp;

Karnataka has 224 assembly seats but voting was held for 222. The halfway mark then is 111, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority.&nbsp;

The BJP is short by 8 seats, while the JD(S)-Congress combine (including the BSP) has 116 seats.&nbsp;

But Yeddyurappa told Governor Vala yesterday that he should be the one invited to try and form a government since the BJP has emerged as the single-largest party in Karnataka.&nbsp;

Former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah meanwhile quoted the Supreme Court as saying after the Goa election that "group having more seats than required are invited".&nbsp;

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Have called for a meeting tomorrow. Newly elected Congress & JD(S) MLAs will be there. We are supporting JD(S) to form govt & have sent this resolution to the Governor. SC said after Goa election that group having more seats than reqd. are invited, we have 117 seats: Siddarmaiah <a href="https://t.co/YT5IEaHO9H">pic.twitter.com/YT5IEaHO9H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996468249381429248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Remember, in Goa and Manipur, which went to the polls last year, the Congress had emerged as the single-largest party. But the BJP ended up forming coalition governments in both states because the Congress was not able to muster up the needed numbers.&nbsp;

All eyes, in Karnataka and the country, then are on Governor Vala and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jdss-kumaraswamy-bjps-yeddyurappa-stake-claim-to-form-karnataka-govt-all-eyes-now-on-governor-137164">what he does next</a>.&nbsp;

Constitutional experts have said the decision is his but that he will have to be guided by the principle of inviting the combine/ party that he thinks will provide the state with a stable government. &nbsp;

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HD Deve Gowda reaches Ashoka Hotel for meeting with senior Congress leaders in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/GIDbPgSPpZ">pic.twitter.com/GIDbPgSPpZ</a>
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JD(S)' HD Deve Gowda & HD Kumaraswamy are in meeting with Congress leaders including Siddaramaiah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, DK Shivakumar and Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/rJxE5mXrrM">https://t.co/rJxE5mXrrM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996419812120145920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Tomorrow at 10:30 am in BJP legislative party meeting, I am going to be elected as party leader. After that all MLAs are going to meet the Governor to request him to allow BJP to form govt. Now the ball is in the court of the Governor. We will do as he decides: BS Yeddyurappa <a href="https://t.co/6QbhizTr6z">pic.twitter.com/6QbhizTr6z</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996422285945749505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The JD(S) meanwhile has said they will be sticking with the Congress, but that the BJP has been trying to get in touch with them.&nbsp;

"We have already decided to go with Congress. That's the reason we called Janta Dal (Secular) Legislature Party meeting. There is no question of taking any other decision," the JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy told ANI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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I don't know what they (BJP) are offering but they are trying to call our people, but they are not responding. We are all together, no one can touch our party. Our party MLAs are loyal to the party: Saravana, JD(S) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/3q0OAehwWq">pic.twitter.com/3q0OAehwWq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996604732855803904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I got a call from the BJP leaders. They said come to us & we'll give a ministry to you. We'll make you a minister. But, I'm going to stay here. HD Kumaraswamy is our Chief Minister: Amaregouda Linganagouda Patil Bayyapur, Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/BIJYZHV7P7">pic.twitter.com/BIJYZHV7P7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996593046014734336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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JD(S) & Congress have the numbers. I hope, the governor will discharge his constitutional duties & invite HD Kumaraswamy to talk. If BJP puts pressure on the governor, it will be the death of Democracy: Danish Ali, JD(S). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/vNV3EBRAME">pic.twitter.com/vNV3EBRAME</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/996600279976955905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The JD(S)'s Kumaraswamy and the BJP's Yeddyurappa had both met Governor Vajubhai Vala on Tuesday. Both staked their claims to forming a government in Karnataka

The drama in Karnataka will continue on Wednesday with both the JD(S)-Congress combine and the BJP meeting Governor Vajubhai Vala today to stake their claims to forming a government. The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy had met Governor Vala Tuesday evening, and staked his claim to forming a government in the state. Kumaraswamy was accompanied by the Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mallikarjun Kharge, and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress told Vala that it was giving the JD(S) its "unconditional support". But the BJP's chief ministerial candidate got to Vala before Kumaraswamy, and he too staked his claim to forming the government. Also read: Congress does to BJP in Karnataka what latter did to it in Goa The Karnataka vote, which was counted yesterday, ended with the BJP emerging as the single largest party. The party won 104 seats, the Congress won 78, the JD(S) won 37, its pre-poll ally the BSP won 1, and Others 2. Karnataka has 224 assembly seats but voting was held for 222. The halfway mark then is 111, with a party needing 112 seats for a simple majority. The BJP is short by 8 seats, while the JD(S)-Congress combine (including the BSP) has 116 seats. But Yeddyurappa told Governor Vala yesterday that he should be the one invited to try and form a government since the BJP has emerged as the single-largest party in Karnataka. Former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah meanwhile quoted the Supreme Court as saying after the Goa election that "group having more seats than required are invited". Have called for a meeting tomorrow. Newly elected Congress & JD(S) MLAs will be there. We are supporting JD(S) to form govt & have sent this resolution to the Governor. SC said after Goa election that group having more seats than reqd. are invited, we have 117 seats: Siddarmaiah pic.twitter.com/YT5IEaHO9H — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Remember, in Goa and Manipur, which went to the polls last year, the Congress had emerged as the single-largest party. But the BJP ended up forming coalition governments in both states because the Congress was not able to muster up the needed numbers. All eyes, in Karnataka and the country, then are on Governor Vala and what he does next. Constitutional experts have said the decision is his but that he will have to be guided by the principle of inviting the combine/ party that he thinks will provide the state with a stable government. HD Deve Gowda reaches Ashoka Hotel for meeting with senior Congress leaders in Bengaluru. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/GIDbPgSPpZ — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × JD(S)' HD Deve Gowda & HD Kumaraswamy are in meeting with Congress leaders including Siddaramaiah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, DK Shivakumar and Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru. #KarnatakaElections2018 https://t.co/rJxE5mXrrM — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × Tomorrow at 10:30 am in BJP legislative party meeting, I am going to be elected as party leader. After that all MLAs are going to meet the Governor to request him to allow BJP to form govt. Now the ball is in the court of the Governor. We will do as he decides: BS Yeddyurappa pic.twitter.com/6QbhizTr6z — ANI (@ANI) May 15, 2018 × The JD(S) meanwhile has said they will be sticking with the Congress, but that the BJP has been trying to get in touch with them. "We have already decided to go with Congress. That's the reason we called Janta Dal (Secular) Legislature Party meeting. There is no question of taking any other decision," the JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy told ANI. I don't know what they (BJP) are offering but they are trying to call our people, but they are not responding. We are all together, no one can touch our party. Our party MLAs are loyal to the party: Saravana, JD(S) #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/3q0OAehwWq — ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2018 × I got a call from the BJP leaders. They said come to us & we'll give a ministry to you. We'll make you a minister. But, I'm going to stay here. HD Kumaraswamy is our Chief Minister: Amaregouda Linganagouda Patil Bayyapur, Congress. #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/BIJYZHV7P7 — ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2018 × JD(S) & Congress have the numbers. I hope, the governor will discharge his constitutional duties & invite HD Kumaraswamy to talk. If BJP puts pressure on the governor, it will be the death of Democracy: Danish Ali, JD(S). #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/vNV3EBRAME — ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2018 ×

Natak in Karnataka continues: JD(S)-Congress combine, and BJP to meet Governor again today

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had a role to play in stitching together the JD(S)-Congress combine in Karnataka, a news report has said.&nbsp;

The DNA newspaper reported Wednesday that it was at Priyanka's suggestion that Congress President Rahul Gandhi offered the Karnataka chief ministership to the JD(S).&nbsp;

Rahul had earlier turned down the idea of a pre-poll alliance with the JD(S).&nbsp;

He had in February called the JD(S) a "B team involved in an undercover arrangement with the BJP".&nbsp;

The JD(S)-Congress alliance in Karnataka had begun with Sonia Gandhi calling Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, who in turn called JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy.&nbsp;

After it was agreed that Kumaraswamy would be the chief minister of a JD(S)-Congress government, things began to swing into motion.&nbsp;

The DNA report however added that the turn of events in Karnataka have again put a question mark over Rahul's ability to stitch together alliances. And that should the opposition stitch together a grand alliance to counter the BJP in the 2019 elections, the alliance partners might have trouble accepting Rahul as their prime ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

The DNA report added that the developments in Karnataka may lead to claims for former Congress president Sonia Gandhi — who has of late been having troubles with her health — to return to active politics.&nbsp;

The DNA newspaper reported Wednesday that it was at Priyanka's suggestion that Congress President Rahul Gandhi offered the Karnataka chief ministership to the JD(S)

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had a role to play in stitching together the JD(S)-Congress combine in Karnataka, a news report has said. The DNA newspaper reported Wednesday that it was at Priyanka's suggestion that Congress President Rahul Gandhi offered the Karnataka chief ministership to the JD(S). Rahul had earlier turned down the idea of a pre-poll alliance with the JD(S). He had in February called the JD(S) a "B team involved in an undercover arrangement with the BJP". The JD(S)-Congress alliance in Karnataka had begun with Sonia Gandhi calling Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, who in turn called JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda and his son HD Kumaraswamy. After it was agreed that Kumaraswamy would be the chief minister of a JD(S)-Congress government, things began to swing into motion. The DNA report however added that the turn of events in Karnataka have again put a question mark over Rahul's ability to stitch together alliances. And that should the opposition stitch together a grand alliance to counter the BJP in the 2019 elections, the alliance partners might have trouble accepting Rahul as their prime ministerial candidate. The DNA report added that the developments in Karnataka may lead to claims for former Congress president Sonia Gandhi — who has of late been having troubles with her health — to return to active politics.

Priyanka Gandhi had hand in stitching together JD(S)-Congress combine in Karnataka: Report

In the state where exit polls projected a hung assembly after a bitterly fought electoral battle, the Narendra-Modi led BJP was ahead in 104 seats, the Congress in 78 and the JD(S) 37.&nbsp;

Others/independents were ahead in three seats. Results were being declared for 222 of the 224 seats in the assembly, with voting in two constituencies countermanded.

Watch live:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Results were being declared for 222 of the 224 seats in the assembly, with voting in two constituencies countermanded.

In the state where exit polls projected a hung assembly after a bitterly fought electoral battle, the Narendra-Modi led BJP was ahead in 104 seats, the Congress in 78 and the JD(S) 37. Others/independents were ahead in three seats. Results were being declared for 222 of the 224 seats in the assembly, with voting in two constituencies countermanded. Watch live:

Watch: PM Narendra Modi addresses party workers at BJP headquarters

Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state.

Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy."

"@BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admitting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy," Siddaramaiah tweeted.

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. <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Karnataka</a> by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admiting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face <a href="https://twitter.com/BSYBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BSYBJP</a> to a dummy. 
 
PM may come & go. Here it is Siddaramaiah vs BSY & you know who is winning.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CongressMathomme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CongressMathomme</a> <a href="https://t.co/IatRRstyAe">https://t.co/IatRRstyAe</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/988984915759960064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He further said the Prime Minister may come and go, but here it is a battle between him and Yeddyurappa, and the" saffron party knows who is winning in the May 12 Assembly polls.

In a blistering attack over Siddaramaiah's "imports" comment, the BJP said his attempt to divide North and South India is "disgusting" and added it understands his anxiety of being" "rejected" by his constituents.

"Imports? How much low can you stoop Mr CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or "two about leadership when he's here," BJP tweeted.

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Imports? How much lower can you stoop Mr. CM? 
 
Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. 
 
While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or two about leadership when he's here. <a href="https://t.co/YYo978DO74">https://t.co/YYo978DO74</a>
— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka/status/988997433882378240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indirectly hitting out at Sonia Gandhi, the BJP asked Siddaramaiah what he had to say about occupants of 10, Janpath, when he is calling Modi and Adityanath as North Indian imports.

"Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural," the BJP tweeted.

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Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? 
 
We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr. CM. 
 
When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural. <a href="https://t.co/YYo978DO74">https://t.co/YYo978DO74</a>
— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka/status/988998792438431744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the incumbent Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah said, that corruption is a contentious issue in this election and that the BJP is levelling "wild allegations" against him for political benefits. "He called me 'Siddaruppaiya', it's an irresponsible statement from PM", Siddaramaiah was quoted as saying by ANI.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
When he was asked if campaigning by a non-Kannadiga such as Rahul Gandhi would really affect the people of Karnataka, he said that Gandhi's campaigning has made a big impact, especially on the youth in the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy."

Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state. Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy." "@BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admitting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy," Siddaramaiah tweeted. . @BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admiting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy. PM may come & go. Here it is Siddaramaiah vs BSY & you know who is winning.#CongressMathomme https://t.co/IatRRstyAe — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 25, 2018 × He further said the Prime Minister may come and go, but here it is a battle between him and Yeddyurappa, and the" saffron party knows who is winning in the May 12 Assembly polls. In a blistering attack over Siddaramaiah's "imports" comment, the BJP said his attempt to divide North and South India is "disgusting" and added it understands his anxiety of being" "rejected" by his constituents. "Imports? How much low can you stoop Mr CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or "two about leadership when he's here," BJP tweeted. Imports? How much lower can you stoop Mr. CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or two about leadership when he's here. https://t.co/YYo978DO74 — BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) April 25, 2018 × Indirectly hitting out at Sonia Gandhi, the BJP asked Siddaramaiah what he had to say about occupants of 10, Janpath, when he is calling Modi and Adityanath as North Indian imports. "Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural," the BJP tweeted. Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr. CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural. https://t.co/YYo978DO74 — BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) April 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, the incumbent Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah said, that corruption is a contentious issue in this election and that the BJP is levelling "wild allegations" against him for political benefits. "He called me 'Siddaruppaiya', it's an irresponsible statement from PM", Siddaramaiah was quoted as saying by ANI. When he was asked if campaigning by a non-Kannadiga such as Rahul Gandhi would really affect the people of Karnataka, he said that Gandhi's campaigning has made a big impact, especially on the youth in the state. (With inputs from Agencies)

Karnataka Assembly Election: Modi and Yogi are north Indian imports, says Siddaramaiah

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on&nbsp; Wednesday won the Jehanabad assembly seat bypoll.&nbsp;

The seat had fallen vacant after death of RJD MLA Mundrika Singh Yadav.&nbsp;

RJD had fielded his son Uday Yadav is the seat who beat the JD(U) candidate by over 35,000 votes.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP&#39;s Rinky Rani Pandey has won the Bhabhua Assembly seat in Bihar.&nbsp;

The result of the Araria Lok Sabha constituency is also out, RJD&#39;s Sarfaraz Alam has won the Araria Lok Sabha seat.

In Bihar, the ruling JD(U)-BJP combine and the opposition RJD-Congress alliance was locked in a battle in Araria Lok seat and the two Assembly constituencies.

According to election office sources, a total of 28 rounds of counting took place for results of Araria Lok Sabha seat bypoll necessitated due to the demise of RJD MP Mohammad Taslimuddin.&nbsp;

Alam, who crossed over from JD(U) to Lalu Prasad&#39;s party RJD to contest the bypoll, is son of Taslimuddin.&nbsp;

While Araria recorded 57 per cent voter turnout, Bhabua and Jehanabad Assembly constituencies recorded 54.03 per cent and 50.06 per cent voting in March 11 elections.&nbsp;

Bypoll in Araria Lok Sabha constituency is was a test for the ruling Janata Dal-United-BJP combine in Bihar as well as the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal-Congress alliance.

There were reports of police resorting to the mild use of force outside the counting centre in Jehanabad as young RJD supporters indulged in boisterous jubilations over the news of their candidate Suday Yadav establishing an unassailable lead over former MLA and JD(U) nominee Abhiram Sharma.

In Bihar, the ruling JD(U)-BJP combine and the opposition RJD-Congress alliance were locked in a battle in Araria Lok seat and the two Assembly constituencies

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Wednesday won the Jehanabad assembly seat bypoll. The seat had fallen vacant after death of RJD MLA Mundrika Singh Yadav. RJD had fielded his son Uday Yadav is the seat who beat the JD(U) candidate by over 35,000 votes. Meanwhile, BJP's Rinky Rani Pandey has won the Bhabhua Assembly seat in Bihar. The result of the Araria Lok Sabha constituency is also out, RJD's Sarfaraz Alam has won the Araria Lok Sabha seat. In Bihar, the ruling JD(U)-BJP combine and the opposition RJD-Congress alliance was locked in a battle in Araria Lok seat and the two Assembly constituencies. According to election office sources, a total of 28 rounds of counting took place for results of Araria Lok Sabha seat bypoll necessitated due to the demise of RJD MP Mohammad Taslimuddin. Alam, who crossed over from JD(U) to Lalu Prasad's party RJD to contest the bypoll, is son of Taslimuddin. While Araria recorded 57 per cent voter turnout, Bhabua and Jehanabad Assembly constituencies recorded 54.03 per cent and 50.06 per cent voting in March 11 elections. Bypoll in Araria Lok Sabha constituency is was a test for the ruling Janata Dal-United-BJP combine in Bihar as well as the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal-Congress alliance. There were reports of police resorting to the mild use of force outside the counting centre in Jehanabad as young RJD supporters indulged in boisterous jubilations over the news of their candidate Suday Yadav establishing an unassailable lead over former MLA and JD(U) nominee Abhiram Sharma.

Bihar bypolls: RJD wins Araria, Jehanabad; BJP retains Bhabua

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was adjourned on Monday after opposition legislators created ruckus over continuing ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

As the House assembled this morning, members of the National Conference and Congress raised anti-government slogans over government&#39;s alleged failure to protect the people from Pakistani shelling.

Amid noisy scenes, opposition members charged that the government was silent on large scale deaths of people in border shelling.

The government assured the statement after Question Hour.

BJP MLA Ravinder Raina raised the issue of Pakistani firing on the LoC and demanded that a resolution be brought out against Pakistan in the Assembly.

Opposition MLAs attacked the PDP-BJP government for its alleged failure.

Peace and reconciliation process is the only way out, said PDP minister Abdul Rehman Veeri.&nbsp;

&ldquo;We want the process started by Atal Bihari Vajpayee to be taken forward,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;

Opposition raised the issue of ceasefire violations in the J&K Assembly

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was adjourned on Monday after opposition legislators created ruckus over continuing ceasefire violations by Pakistan. As the House assembled this morning, members of the National Conference and Congress raised anti-government slogans over government's alleged failure to protect the people from Pakistani shelling. Amid noisy scenes, opposition members charged that the government was silent on large scale deaths of people in border shelling. The government assured the statement after Question Hour. BJP MLA Ravinder Raina raised the issue of Pakistani firing on the LoC and demanded that a resolution be brought out against Pakistan in the Assembly. Opposition MLAs attacked the PDP-BJP government for its alleged failure. Peace and reconciliation process is the only way out, said PDP minister Abdul Rehman Veeri. “We want the process started by Atal Bihari Vajpayee to be taken forward,” he added.

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly rocked over ceasefire violations by Pakistan

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya today suffered a setback when five of its MLAs, including former Deputy Chief Minister Rowell Lyngdoh, resigned from the state Assembly.&nbsp;

Along with them three other MLAs, including one from the United Democratic Party and two Independents, tendered resignation from the House, Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.&nbsp;

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Meghalaya: Eight MLAs including five from the ruling Congress party have resigned from the state assembly <a href="https://t.co/w3aGeFFhsw">pic.twitter.com/w3aGeFFhsw</a>
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Rowell, a veteran Congress leader of the state, later announced that all the eight MLAs, who have quit, would join the National People&#39;s Party at a rally of that party next week.&nbsp;

The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs.&nbsp;

Today&#39;s resignation comes days after another Congress MLA, P N Syiem, resigned from the party.&nbsp;

With today&#39;s resignation the number of Congress legislators in the Assembly has come down to 24.&nbsp;

The term of the current House expires on March 6 and elections are due early next year in the state along with Nagaland and Tripura.&nbsp;

The five Congress Legislators who put in their papers from the House had earlier rebelled against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership.&nbsp;

Four of the five Congress Legislators were part of the state Cabinet earlier and were sacked by the chief minister in the past on alleged ground of incompetence.&nbsp;

They were joined by party MLA Mlangaitlang Dhar in quitting the membership of the Assembly.&nbsp;

&quot;Eight MLAs submitted their resignation to me at the office of the Speaker today. The Speaker was on a tour and was not available at his office,&quot; Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.&nbsp;

He said the resignation letters have been sent by email to Speaker Abu Taher Mondal.&nbsp;

Three others who quit are Remington Pyngrope (UDP) and two Independents-- Stephanson Mukhim and Hopeful Bamon.&nbsp;

&quot;We are joining the NPP on January 4 at a rally at Pologrounds,&quot; Rowell told reporters.&nbsp;

He said it was a difficult decision to leave the Congress but he was compelled to do so &quot;because of the people&quot;.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the chief minister, the former deputy chief minister said, &quot;The autocratic style of functioning of the chief minister had made it difficult for me and others to function in the government.&quot;&nbsp;

Rowell said the decision to set up a medical college in the state capital Shillong on PPP mode and another one in Tura to be funded by the state government, was taken without consultations in the cabinet.&nbsp;

He also slammed the state Congress president D D Lapang, who he alleged gave in to the diktats of the chief minister and went ahead and dissolved the block Congress committee in many constituencies including his.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader and former cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong said the prospects of the Congress in Meghalaya will be badly hit.

The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya today suffered a setback when five of its MLAs, including former Deputy Chief Minister Rowell Lyngdoh, resigned from the state Assembly. Along with them three other MLAs, including one from the United Democratic Party and two Independents, tendered resignation from the House, Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI. Meghalaya: Eight MLAs including five from the ruling Congress party have resigned from the state assembly pic.twitter.com/w3aGeFFhsw — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017 × Rowell, a veteran Congress leader of the state, later announced that all the eight MLAs, who have quit, would join the National People's Party at a rally of that party next week. The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs. Today's resignation comes days after another Congress MLA, P N Syiem, resigned from the party. With today's resignation the number of Congress legislators in the Assembly has come down to 24. The term of the current House expires on March 6 and elections are due early next year in the state along with Nagaland and Tripura. The five Congress Legislators who put in their papers from the House had earlier rebelled against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership. Four of the five Congress Legislators were part of the state Cabinet earlier and were sacked by the chief minister in the past on alleged ground of incompetence. They were joined by party MLA Mlangaitlang Dhar in quitting the membership of the Assembly. "Eight MLAs submitted their resignation to me at the office of the Speaker today. The Speaker was on a tour and was not available at his office," Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI. He said the resignation letters have been sent by email to Speaker Abu Taher Mondal. Three others who quit are Remington Pyngrope (UDP) and two Independents-- Stephanson Mukhim and Hopeful Bamon. "We are joining the NPP on January 4 at a rally at Pologrounds," Rowell told reporters. He said it was a difficult decision to leave the Congress but he was compelled to do so "because of the people". Hitting out at the chief minister, the former deputy chief minister said, "The autocratic style of functioning of the chief minister had made it difficult for me and others to function in the government." Rowell said the decision to set up a medical college in the state capital Shillong on PPP mode and another one in Tura to be funded by the state government, was taken without consultations in the cabinet. He also slammed the state Congress president D D Lapang, who he alleged gave in to the diktats of the chief minister and went ahead and dissolved the block Congress committee in many constituencies including his. Senior Congress leader and former cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong said the prospects of the Congress in Meghalaya will be badly hit.

Meghalaya: Five Congress MLAs resign from Assembly

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya has suffered another jolt with state party president and four-time chief minister DD Lapang deciding to opt out of assembly poll race, due early next year.&nbsp;

His announcement came a month after two senior leaders holding cabinet berths -- deputy chief minister Roytre C Laloo and Roshan Warjri -- expressed similar intentions.&nbsp;

The 85-year-old veteran leader met All India Congress&nbsp;Committee president Sonia Gandhi in Delhi yesterday to inform her of his decision.&nbsp;

&quot;She wished me well and said I should continue to keep the party united and share my experience and advisories with the workers and leaders,&quot; Lapang said in a statement.&nbsp;

The former CM also exchanged greetings with Meghalaya party in-charge C P Joshi during a meeting called to discuss the elevation of Rahul Gandhi as Congress president.&nbsp;

He had informed Chief Minister Mukul Sangma about his decision prior to his meeting with Sonia Gandhi yesterday.&nbsp;

Lapang had won the Nongpoh seat in the 1972 assembly elections as an Independent candidate. He later joined the Congress and was elected chief minister in 1992, 2003, 2007 and 2009.&nbsp;

However, he never completed his tenure as the chief minister.

Lapang's announcement came a month after two senior leaders holding cabinet berths -- Deputy Chief Minister Roytre C Laloo and Roshan Warjri -- expressed similar intentions

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya has suffered another jolt with state party president and four-time chief minister DD Lapang deciding to opt out of assembly poll race, due early next year. His announcement came a month after two senior leaders holding cabinet berths -- deputy chief minister Roytre C Laloo and Roshan Warjri -- expressed similar intentions. The 85-year-old veteran leader met All India Congress Committee president Sonia Gandhi in Delhi yesterday to inform her of his decision. "She wished me well and said I should continue to keep the party united and share my experience and advisories with the workers and leaders," Lapang said in a statement. The former CM also exchanged greetings with Meghalaya party in-charge C P Joshi during a meeting called to discuss the elevation of Rahul Gandhi as Congress president. He had informed Chief Minister Mukul Sangma about his decision prior to his meeting with Sonia Gandhi yesterday. Lapang had won the Nongpoh seat in the 1972 assembly elections as an Independent candidate. He later joined the Congress and was elected chief minister in 1992, 2003, 2007 and 2009. However, he never completed his tenure as the chief minister.

Meghalaya Congress President DD Lapang opts out of Assembly poll race

The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Saturday unanimously passed a Bill to provide 5 per cent reservation in education and employment sectors for the Kapu community in the state.

The state assembly had introduced the bill on Saturday morning.The state cabinet had given a nod in this regard yesterday based on the report submitted by the Manjunath Commission.

The bill facilitates providing them 5 per cent reservation in BC F Category.The state cabinet has decided to include the Balija, Ontari and Telaga communities in the Backward Castes (BCs) and provide them 5 per cent reservation in education, employment and welfare schemes.

However, the political reservation will not be provided to the mentioned communities.Three of the four members BC commission headed by Justice KL Manjunatha gave their report to the chief minister yesterday.

While M Purnachandra Rao, S Satyanarayana and V Subrahmanyam gave their reports in favour of the Kapus, Manjunath did not give his report.

They were said to be unanimously favoured giving 4-5 per cent reservation to the Kapus. The Bill will now be sent to the governor, after which it will be sent to the Union Home Ministry. Andhra Pradesh has 29 per cent reservation for Backward Castes (BCs), 15 per cent for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and 6 per cent for the Scheduled Tribes (STs).

The state assembly had introduced the bill today morning

The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Saturday unanimously passed a Bill to provide 5 per cent reservation in education and employment sectors for the Kapu community in the state. The state assembly had introduced the bill on Saturday morning.The state cabinet had given a nod in this regard yesterday based on the report submitted by the Manjunath Commission. The bill facilitates providing them 5 per cent reservation in BC F Category.The state cabinet has decided to include the Balija, Ontari and Telaga communities in the Backward Castes (BCs) and provide them 5 per cent reservation in education, employment and welfare schemes. However, the political reservation will not be provided to the mentioned communities.Three of the four members BC commission headed by Justice KL Manjunatha gave their report to the chief minister yesterday. While M Purnachandra Rao, S Satyanarayana and V Subrahmanyam gave their reports in favour of the Kapus, Manjunath did not give his report. They were said to be unanimously favoured giving 4-5 per cent reservation to the Kapus. The Bill will now be sent to the governor, after which it will be sent to the Union Home Ministry. Andhra Pradesh has 29 per cent reservation for Backward Castes (BCs), 15 per cent for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and 6 per cent for the Scheduled Tribes (STs).

AP assembly passes bill to provide 5 per cent reservation to Kapu community

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