Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections.

First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said.

In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision.

They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged.

He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans.

They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged.

Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme.

Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law. Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections. First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said. In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision. They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged. He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans. They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged. Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme. Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.

Appalled to see Congress speaking the language of Pakistan: PM Modi

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-smriti-irani-visits-amethi-more-than-rahul-gandhi-says-yogi-adityanath-214907">party's candidate from the constituency</a> Smriti Irani held a road show in the town.

Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji".

"Everyone is hopeful. The massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji and BJP is winning here in this elections. Opposition will stop making any claims after the result, BJP will form government with massive majority," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amethis-battle-royale-smriti-irani-to-take-on-rahul-gandhi-again-207829">Amethi's battle royale: Smriti Irani to take on Rahul Gandhi again</a>

Targetting the Congress, Shah further said, "For the first time Amethi is feeling that development is possible here as well. Even after making members of Gandhi family their representative for so many years, there were villages which didn't have electricity. They received electricity only after Modi ji came".

Union Smriti Irani, who accompanied Shah said, "By writing letters (to the electorate) before elections, Rahul Gandhi is hinting that he will not be present in Amethi ever."

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Uttar Pradesh's Amethi constituency&nbsp;which is considered a&nbsp;Gandhi bastion, will go to polls in the fifth phase on May 6.

For the past four generations, the Lok Sabha seat&nbsp;has been represented by the members of the Gandhi family.

Rahul Gandhi, who has been representing the constituency for the past 15 years, will this time again face BJP's Irani.

In the 2014 general elections, Irani was defeated by Rahul Gandhi by over one lakh votes.

This time, the Congress president filed nominations from two Lok Sabha constituencies, Amethi and Wayanad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the party's candidate from the constituency Smriti Irani held a road show in the town. Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji".

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the party's candidate from the constituency Smriti Irani held a road show in the town. Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji". "Everyone is hopeful. The massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji and BJP is winning here in this elections. Opposition will stop making any claims after the result, BJP will form government with massive majority," he said. Also read: Amethi's battle royale: Smriti Irani to take on Rahul Gandhi again Targetting the Congress, Shah further said, "For the first time Amethi is feeling that development is possible here as well. Even after making members of Gandhi family their representative for so many years, there were villages which didn't have electricity. They received electricity only after Modi ji came". Union Smriti Irani, who accompanied Shah said, "By writing letters (to the electorate) before elections, Rahul Gandhi is hinting that he will not be present in Amethi ever." #WATCH: BJP President Amit Shah and Union Minister Smriti Irani hold a road show in Amethi. Smriti Irani is BJP candidate from Amethi parliamentary constituency. The constituency will undergo polling on 6th May. #LokSabhaElections pic.twitter.com/DOv0CVYe66 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 4, 2019 × Uttar Pradesh's Amethi constituency which is considered a Gandhi bastion, will go to polls in the fifth phase on May 6. For the past four generations, the Lok Sabha seat has been represented by the members of the Gandhi family. Rahul Gandhi, who has been representing the constituency for the past 15 years, will this time again face BJP's Irani. In the 2014 general elections, Irani was defeated by Rahul Gandhi by over one lakh votes. This time, the Congress president filed nominations from two Lok Sabha constituencies, Amethi and Wayanad. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji: Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-gives-clean-chit-to-amit-shah-over-nagpur-nadia-speeches-215784">BJP president Amit Shah</a> said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-far-will-the-united-opposition-go-without-prime-ministerial-face-194989">Opposition is leaderless</a>, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

"Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said.

Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!"

"Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said.

Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-not-allow-abdullahs-muftis-to-divide-india-pm-modi-in-210258">Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister</a>, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same.

"But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said.

"Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked.

On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell."

When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath".

Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added.

Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh. "Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said. Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!" "Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said. Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same. "But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said. "Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked. On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell." When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath". Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added. Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

If opposition wins, there will be different PM every day: Amit Shah

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception".

Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image".

In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?"

"Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added.

Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent.

"He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast.

"Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity. The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception". Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image". In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?" "Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added. Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent. "He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast. "Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.

Jaitley wonders how Rahul could damage Modi's image

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'.

With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters.

"In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said.

In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said.

Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP.

Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.

He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority.

Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained.

"The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said.

The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong.

Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism.

At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror.

Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives.

The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali.

Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.&nbsp;

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi.

The Election Commission concluded on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not violate the model code or its advisory on armed forces in his speech in Varanasi. It also found nothing wrong in his comments made in Nanded, Maharashtra where he reportedly dubbed the Congress as a 'sinking Titanic'. With this, the EC has decided on five complaints against Modi and gave him a clean chit in all matters. "In a matter related to a complaint concerning alleged violations of advisories of the Commission and Model Code of Conduct, in a speech delivered by Narendra Modi at Nanded, Maharashtra on April 6, a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail ... (the) Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," the EC said. In his Nanded speech, Modi had reportedly said that the Congress today is like Titanic ship which is sinking. All those who are in the ship like the Nationalist Congress Party are either sinking or jumping off to escape, he had reportedly said. Targeting Rahul Gandhi, he had said that the Congress chief has traced a seat using microscope from which he can take on the BJP. Modi was apparently referring to the Wayanad seat in Kerala from where Rahul is contesting, besides Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. He had reportedly said that in Wayanad, the country's majority is in minority. Referring to Modi's Varanasi speech on April 25, where he had gone to file his nomination for Lok Sabha elections, the EC said a detailed report of the Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh was obtained. "The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript, Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted," it said. The Congress had also referred to an interview given by the PM to Aaj Tak and said it found nothing wrong. Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi had stressed on national security, saying a new India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. At the meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism. In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 paramilitary men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror. Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives. The Election Commission had on Thursday given a clean chit to Modi, saying he did not violate the model code of conduct during his election speech in Rajasthan's border town of Barmer where he invoked the armed forces and said that India's nuclear button was not kept to be used for Diwali. Earlier, the EC had found nothing wrong in the prime minister's speech at Wardha on April 1 where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from minority-dominated Wayanad seat. It has also cleared the PM for his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot air strikes and the Pulwama martyrs in Latur on April 9.

Election Commission clean chit to PM Modi in two more speeches

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/congress-earlier-mocked-surgical-strikes-now-saying-me-too-me-too-pm-modi-215682">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website.

"The Prime Minister joined 30 programmes in Delhi itself. 14 Cabinet meetings have been held since the start of the year. These numbers speak for themselves. They also offer a unique glimpse into the working style and multi-tasking abilities of PM Modi," read a statement on his website www.narendramodi.in.&nbsp;

One example of PM Modi`s hectic schedule was his visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

In February, PM Modi embarked on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir where in one day he covered all three regions of the state- Ladakh, Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. Since January 2019, PM Modi has made multiple visits to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.

These visits were scheduled before the Model Code of Conduct was enforced by the Election Commission, therefore a great emphasis on infra projects and sectors like energy and agriculture was laid in these trips.

On February 1, the NDA Government announced two marquee schemes- the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana.&nbsp;

The former provides monetary support to farmers while the latter assures a monthly pension to the unorganised sector. Both these schemes were launched soon after the announcements were made.

PM Modi went to Gorakhpur on February 24 to launch the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi while he went to Ahmedabad to launch the Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana on March 5.

On the same day, PM Modi was at the holy Sangam in Prayagraj, where he took a dip and participated in a Puja ceremony.

"He became the first Prime Minister in years to visit a Kumbh Mela," according to his website.

At the end of December 2018, PM Modi was on the shores of Port Blair to pay tribute to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar.

A month later, on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi was in Gujarat`s Dandi to inaugurate a state-of-the-art Salt Satyagraha Memorial and Museum.

In January, he visited the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and in March he was at the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura.

During the last 150 days, the 'MP Modi' visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi five times.

Even while in Delhi, the prime minister had a hectic schedule.&nbsp;

On a February winter evening in the capital, thousands of veterans gathered at Delhi`s Dhyan Chand Stadium.&nbsp;

The occasion was a rally of ex-servicemen, which was addressed by PM Modi, followed by the dedication of Rashtriya Samar Smarak or the National War Memorial to the nation.

"It has been 70 long years but nobody thought of a grand National War Memorial as a tribute to our brave hearts martyred in the line of duty. It was PM Modi who took this decision and in quick time, a grand memorial was ready," the statement on his website said.

PM Modi also visited Amethi in UP on March 4 to inaugurate rifle unit which will manufacture AK-203 guns.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held 200 programmes, most of them electoral in nature, across 27 states and Union Territories, over the last 125 days beginning December 25, according to information provided by his official website. "The Prime Minister joined 30 programmes in Delhi itself. 14 Cabinet meetings have been held since the start of the year. These numbers speak for themselves. They also offer a unique glimpse into the working style and multi-tasking abilities of PM Modi," read a statement on his website www.narendramodi.in. One example of PM Modi`s hectic schedule was his visit to Jammu and Kashmir. In February, PM Modi embarked on a visit to Jammu and Kashmir where in one day he covered all three regions of the state- Ladakh, Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. Since January 2019, PM Modi has made multiple visits to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura. These visits were scheduled before the Model Code of Conduct was enforced by the Election Commission, therefore a great emphasis on infra projects and sectors like energy and agriculture was laid in these trips. On February 1, the NDA Government announced two marquee schemes- the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana. The former provides monetary support to farmers while the latter assures a monthly pension to the unorganised sector. Both these schemes were launched soon after the announcements were made. PM Modi went to Gorakhpur on February 24 to launch the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi while he went to Ahmedabad to launch the Shram Yogi Man Dhan Yojana on March 5. On the same day, PM Modi was at the holy Sangam in Prayagraj, where he took a dip and participated in a Puja ceremony. "He became the first Prime Minister in years to visit a Kumbh Mela," according to his website. At the end of December 2018, PM Modi was on the shores of Port Blair to pay tribute to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. A month later, on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, PM Modi was in Gujarat`s Dandi to inaugurate a state-of-the-art Salt Satyagraha Memorial and Museum. In January, he visited the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram and in March he was at the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura. During the last 150 days, the 'MP Modi' visited his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi five times. Even while in Delhi, the prime minister had a hectic schedule. On a February winter evening in the capital, thousands of veterans gathered at Delhi`s Dhyan Chand Stadium. The occasion was a rally of ex-servicemen, which was addressed by PM Modi, followed by the dedication of Rashtriya Samar Smarak or the National War Memorial to the nation. "It has been 70 long years but nobody thought of a grand National War Memorial as a tribute to our brave hearts martyred in the line of duty. It was PM Modi who took this decision and in quick time, a grand memorial was ready," the statement on his website said. PM Modi also visited Amethi in UP on March 4 to inaugurate rifle unit which will manufacture AK-203 guns.

PM Modi's travel itinerary in last 125 days: 200 programmes across 27 states and Union Territories

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/terrorist-attacks-had-become-daily-affair-during-congress-pm-modi-in-rajasthan-215640">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'.

"After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan.

"What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added.

"I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said.

"Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added.

The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes."

At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday mocked the Congress over its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime telling the party that it is not a video game. A day after the Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out by the Manmohan Singh-led government, he said the Congress, which earlier used to mock the surgical strikes, is now saying 'me too, me too'. "After losing in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, now Congress is doing a new drama. A senior Congress leader last night said that during their time surgical strikes were done many times. Now Congress is trying everything to prove that it too had carried out surgical strikes. Congress claims that they carried out six surgical strikes," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally in Sikar, Rajasthan. "What type of strikes were these about which the terrorists did not get to know, Pakistan didn't know and even Indians didn't know. First, they mocked it. When they saw that the people are standing with Modi, then they started protesting. And now they say 'me too me too'," he added. "I think there are people in the Congress who play video games at any age and maybe they even consider surgical strike as a video game," Modi said. "Jab kagaz par hi karni ho, jab video game mein hi strike karni ho to 6 ho ya 3 ho, 20 hon ya 25 hon, ye jhoote logon ko kya fark padta hai," he added. The Prime Minister later took another jibe at the Congress and said "When the results for Lok Sabha elections will come out on May 23, then the Congress will say that we did 600 surgical strikes." At the rally, Prime Minister Modi also said, "I promise you that the water which is currently flowing to Pakistan will be diverted to the farms in India."

Congress earlier mocked surgical strikes, now saying 'me too, me too': PM Modi

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP.

The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading.

Bajpai joined the BJP in presence of the national vice president and Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, and Union Minister Vijay Goel, at the Delhi unit office here.

"I worked for the AAP for 15 years. I was hurt by a lack of respect and the peculiar type of functioning in the party. It has detracted from its original path", he said.

On Wednesday, Sisodia alleged that the BJP offered Rs 10 crore each to seven AAP MLAs to switch sides.

However, Bajpai denied having taken money for joining the BJP and said Kejriwal is in the habit of making allegations and then tendering apologies.

Former Delhi BJP president and Union minister Goel Thursday claimed not seven but 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with his party and wanted to quit AAP due to "frustration and humiliation".&nbsp;

Three municipal councillors of AAP also joined the BJP.&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP. The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading.

Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Gandhi Nagar Anil Bajpai Friday joined the BJP. The move comes at a time when AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have accused the BJP of indulging in horse-trading. Bajpai joined the BJP in presence of the national vice president and Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, and Union Minister Vijay Goel, at the Delhi unit office here. "I worked for the AAP for 15 years. I was hurt by a lack of respect and the peculiar type of functioning in the party. It has detracted from its original path", he said. On Wednesday, Sisodia alleged that the BJP offered Rs 10 crore each to seven AAP MLAs to switch sides. However, Bajpai denied having taken money for joining the BJP and said Kejriwal is in the habit of making allegations and then tendering apologies. Former Delhi BJP president and Union minister Goel Thursday claimed not seven but 14 AAP MLAs were in touch with his party and wanted to quit AAP due to "frustration and humiliation". Three municipal councillors of AAP also joined the BJP.

AAP Gandhi Nagar MLA Anil Bajpai joins BJP

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-shares-clip-of-last-poll-meeting-in-jaipur-says-it-is-clear-rajasthan-wants-bjp-215633"> Prime Minister Modi</a> said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

"When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-1000-crore-released-in-advance-for-cyclone-affected-states-pm-modi-215630">Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi</a>

While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal".

PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-slams-congress-for-questioning-timing-of-jem-chief-masood-azhars-listing-as-a-global-terrorist-215627">Azhar was declared international terrorist</a> while polls underway.

Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage".&nbsp;

"The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage".

"In 2009 &amp; 2014 they said, there's election. Police is&nbsp;busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime.

Attacking the Congress ahead of the polls in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said on Friday that the terrorist attacks had become a daily affair during the Congress regime. "When there was Congress government at the centre, terrorist attacks had become a daily affair. No city was safe in their tenure. Everyone knows how terrorists attacked Mumbai in 2008. What happened in Mumbai at that time, was neither the first nor the last," PM Modi said. Also read: Cyclone Fani: Rs 1,000 crore released in advance for affected states, says PM Modi While addressing an election rally in Karauli, Rajasthan, PM Modi further said, "In January 2008, there was an attack on CRPF camp in UP. In May, there was a bomb blast in Jaipur. In July, there were serial blasts in Bengaluru. Next day, bomb blasts in Ahmedabad. In September, there were two terror attacks in Delhi. In October, serial blasts in Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal". PM Modi also said that the Congress was distraught when he got the award from UAE during elections and when Azhar was declared international terrorist while polls underway. Further targetting the Congress PM Modi said that the government at the Centre during the 2009 "had no courage". "The youth takes a lot of interest in IPL. But there were two occasions when it could not be played in India, it was played in South Africa. This happened in 2009 and 2014. The government at the centre was so scared of terrorists. That government had no courage". "In 2009 & 2014 they said, there's election. Police is busy so can't have IPL. There are elections now, there was Navratri, Ramnavmi and Hanuman Jayanti too. Ramzan will be here. But IPL is going on", he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorist attacks had become daily affair during Congress: PM Modi in Rajasthan

Senior BJP leader and Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said the sedition law will be reviewed for any weaknesses and made more stringent after his party returns to power at the Centre.

Singh, addressing a gathering at Delhi's Shastri Park area in support of party candidates for Lok Sabha elections Manoj Tiwari and Gautam Gambhir, also paid tribute to the Maharashtra policemen who were killed in an IED blast in the state's Naxal-affected Gadchiroli district.

"We will see if there are any weaknesses in the sedition law after coming back to power. We will make it so stringent that it will quiver the souls of traitors," the home minister said.

He also took shots at the opposition for raising questions over the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strike.

"Should our soldiers stop to count the bodies after strikes? Only vultures count bodies, not the warriors," he said.

Singh asserted that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will secure two-third majority in the Lok Sabha polls.

Senior BJP leader and Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said the sedition law will be reviewed for any weaknesses and made more stringent after his party returns to power at the Centre.

Senior BJP leader and Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said the sedition law will be reviewed for any weaknesses and made more stringent after his party returns to power at the Centre. Singh, addressing a gathering at Delhi's Shastri Park area in support of party candidates for Lok Sabha elections Manoj Tiwari and Gautam Gambhir, also paid tribute to the Maharashtra policemen who were killed in an IED blast in the state's Naxal-affected Gadchiroli district. "We will see if there are any weaknesses in the sedition law after coming back to power. We will make it so stringent that it will quiver the souls of traitors," the home minister said. He also took shots at the opposition for raising questions over the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strike. "Should our soldiers stop to count the bodies after strikes? Only vultures count bodies, not the warriors," he said. Singh asserted that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will secure two-third majority in the Lok Sabha polls.

Will review sedition law, make it more stringent after coming back to power: Rajnath Singh

The Election Commission has barred Gujarat BJP president Jitubhai Vaghani from campaigning for 72 hours starting tomorrow evening for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The ban will come in effect from 4 pm on May 2, an EC order said.

Vaghani has been barred from campaigning for violating the MCC at Amroli in Surat on April 7.

The model code is a set of instructions and guidelines to be followed by political parties and candidates for the conduct free and fair elections.

The MCC came into force on March 10, when the EC announced the schedule of seven-phase Lok Sabha polls.

The poll watchdog had yesterday barred Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan from campaigning for 48 hours starting from 6 am on Wednesday for violating the MCC with his "highly provocative" speeches in which he "appealed to secure votes on religious lines".

The Election Commission has barred Gujarat BJP president Jitubhai Vaghani from campaigning for 72 hours starting tomorrow evening for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The Election Commission has barred Gujarat BJP president Jitubhai Vaghani from campaigning for 72 hours starting tomorrow evening for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The ban will come in effect from 4 pm on May 2, an EC order said. Vaghani has been barred from campaigning for violating the MCC at Amroli in Surat on April 7. The model code is a set of instructions and guidelines to be followed by political parties and candidates for the conduct free and fair elections. The MCC came into force on March 10, when the EC announced the schedule of seven-phase Lok Sabha polls. The poll watchdog had yesterday barred Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan from campaigning for 48 hours starting from 6 am on Wednesday for violating the MCC with his "highly provocative" speeches in which he "appealed to secure votes on religious lines".

Election Commission bars Gujarat BJP chief Jitubhai Vaghani from campaigning for 72 hours

A delegation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday visited the Election Commission of India demanding an investigation on the money incurred in Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s roadshow in Varanasi before he filed his nomination from the Lok Sabha constituency.

AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh met Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners.

They submitted a detailed memorandum about "electoral malpractice and corrupt practices" by Prime Minister Modi.

In the letter submitted to the EC, AAP states, "On information received from our volunteers as well as various persons who were present in Varanasi on 25.4.2019 and 26.4.2019, we were informed that a large sum of money was incurred by Prime Minister Modi towards a roadshow/rally organised by him in Varanasi, well beyond the permissible limit of Rs 70 lakhs as fixed by the Election Commission in contravention with the Section 77(1) of Representation of Peoples Act 1951."

The letter added, "By our conservative estimate in terms of information available as on 27.4.2019, Prime Minister Modi had incurred at least Rs 1.27 crore towards the said roadshow/rally on the day of his nomination, which grounds for disqualification."

The AAP said that Prime Minister Modi is fit to be disqualified for "failure to disclose expenses and make available the same for inspection; incurring expenses well in excess of permissible limits."

AAP has asked the electoral body to call for a "report from the Election Observer for the Varanasi Parliamentary Constituency."

The party has further asked EC to initiate an "investigation by the District Expenditure Monitoring Committee into the expenditures incurred by Prime Minister Modi."

It has also asked EC to initiate action for disqualifying Prime Minister Modi for "(a) incurring expenditure beyond permissible limit, and (b) indulging in corrupt practices." 
&nbsp;

A delegation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday visited the Election Commission of India demanding an investigation on the money incurred in Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s roadshow in Varanasi before he filed his nomination from the Lok Sabha constituency.

A delegation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday visited the Election Commission of India demanding an investigation on the money incurred in Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s roadshow in Varanasi before he filed his nomination from the Lok Sabha constituency. AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh met Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners. They submitted a detailed memorandum about "electoral malpractice and corrupt practices" by Prime Minister Modi. In the letter submitted to the EC, AAP states, "On information received from our volunteers as well as various persons who were present in Varanasi on 25.4.2019 and 26.4.2019, we were informed that a large sum of money was incurred by Prime Minister Modi towards a roadshow/rally organised by him in Varanasi, well beyond the permissible limit of Rs 70 lakhs as fixed by the Election Commission in contravention with the Section 77(1) of Representation of Peoples Act 1951." The letter added, "By our conservative estimate in terms of information available as on 27.4.2019, Prime Minister Modi had incurred at least Rs 1.27 crore towards the said roadshow/rally on the day of his nomination, which grounds for disqualification." The AAP said that Prime Minister Modi is fit to be disqualified for "failure to disclose expenses and make available the same for inspection; incurring expenses well in excess of permissible limits." AAP has asked the electoral body to call for a "report from the Election Observer for the Varanasi Parliamentary Constituency." The party has further asked EC to initiate an "investigation by the District Expenditure Monitoring Committee into the expenditures incurred by Prime Minister Modi." It has also asked EC to initiate action for disqualifying Prime Minister Modi for "(a) incurring expenditure beyond permissible limit, and (b) indulging in corrupt practices."

AAP approaches Election Commission, demands investigation into expenditures incurred by PM Modi on roadshow

The Election Commission Wednesday concluded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Latur last month in which he had urged first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of the Balakot air strike heroes and the soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, is not violative of its instructions on invoking armed forces in poll campaigns.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-gets-clean-chit-no-poll-code-violation-in-wardha-speech-says-election-commission-214835">PM Modi gets clean chit: No poll code violation in Wardha speech, says Election Commission</a>

It also found that Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's remarks on defence forces were not violative of the model code.&nbsp;

Attacking the prime minister, Kamal Nath had on April 14 said that even when Modi was a child, Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi had built the country's defence forces. He was addressing a rally at Harsud in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh.

Referring to the prime minister's statement in Latur, the commission said, "The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript of speech of 11 pages as per the certified copy sent by the Returning Officer, Osmanabad parliamentary constituency. Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted."

Addressing a rally in Ausa in Maharashtra's Latur on April 9, Modi had said, "Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike."

"I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the veer jawans (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan. Can your first vote be dedicated to the veer shaheed (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi had said.

Local poll authorities in Maharashtra are learnt to have told the EC here that Modi's remarks are prima facie violative of its orders, asking parties against using the armed forces in their campaigns.

The EC had sought the report in the context of the EC advisory issued in March asking parties to desist from indulging in political propaganda involving actions of the armed forces.

"... Parties/candidates are advised that their campaigners/candidates should desist, as part of their election campaigning, from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces," the commission said on March 19.&nbsp;

Since Congress had approached EC in this regard, the response has also been sent to the party.

On Tuesday, the EC had said that Modi had not violated the model code in his speech in Wardha on April 1 in which he had slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from Wayanad and had indicated that the Kerala constituency had more voters from the minority community.&nbsp;

The Election Commission Wednesday concluded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Latur last month in which he had urged first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of the Balakot air strike heroes and the soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, is not violative of its instructions on invoking armed forces in poll campaigns.

The Election Commission Wednesday concluded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Latur last month in which he had urged first time voters to dedicate their votes in the name of the Balakot air strike heroes and the soldiers killed in the Pulwama attack, is not violative of its instructions on invoking armed forces in poll campaigns. Also read: PM Modi gets clean chit: No poll code violation in Wardha speech, says Election Commission It also found that Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's remarks on defence forces were not violative of the model code. Attacking the prime minister, Kamal Nath had on April 14 said that even when Modi was a child, Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi had built the country's defence forces. He was addressing a rally at Harsud in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh. Referring to the prime minister's statement in Latur, the commission said, "The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and after examination of complete transcript of speech of 11 pages as per the certified copy sent by the Returning Officer, Osmanabad parliamentary constituency. Commission is of the considered view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted." Addressing a rally in Ausa in Maharashtra's Latur on April 9, Modi had said, "Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out the air strike." "I want to tell the first-time voters: can your first vote be dedicated to the veer jawans (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan. Can your first vote be dedicated to the veer shaheed (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," Modi had said. Local poll authorities in Maharashtra are learnt to have told the EC here that Modi's remarks are prima facie violative of its orders, asking parties against using the armed forces in their campaigns. The EC had sought the report in the context of the EC advisory issued in March asking parties to desist from indulging in political propaganda involving actions of the armed forces. "... Parties/candidates are advised that their campaigners/candidates should desist, as part of their election campaigning, from indulging in any political propaganda involving activities of defence forces," the commission said on March 19. Since Congress had approached EC in this regard, the response has also been sent to the party. On Tuesday, the EC had said that Modi had not violated the model code in his speech in Wardha on April 1 in which he had slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from Wayanad and had indicated that the Kerala constituency had more voters from the minority community.

Election Commission gives clean chit to PM Modi on Latur speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked the Congressmen to sink to death for supporting controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, whose TV channel has been banned by Sri Lankan government in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks in the island nation in which over 250 people were killed.

"After the terror attacks, Sri Lanka government decided to ban Zakir Naik`s TV channel. Do you know who Zakir Naik is? He is Zakir Naik in whose 'durbar'&nbsp;Diggi Raja (Digvijaya Singh) was once seen appreciating him. He is the same Zakir Naik, whom the Congress government had invited to address our police officers, that too on the topic of terrorism. `Doob Maro Congress Walon (Sink to death Congressmen)," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing an election rally in Madhya Pradesh.

He said,&nbsp;"I have heard that a Congress leader here said that hit Modi so that he dies across the border. Congress people hate Modi so much that they are dreaming to kill him. But they have forgotten that the people of the country are batting from Modi`s side."

"Now the Congress people should tell from whose side they are playing - India or Pakistan," he asked.

"The Congress stands with those who say that Jammu and Kashmir should have its own Prime Minister. People can see how the party which ruled the country for so many years is indulging in anti-national activities," he said.

Madhya Pradesh, where 29 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, has gone to one phase of seven-phased polling so far.

The state will go to polls during remaining three phases of polling, which concludes on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked the Congressmen to sink to death for supporting controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, whose TV channel has been banned by Sri Lankan government in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks in the island nation in which over 250 people were killed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked the Congressmen to sink to death for supporting controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, whose TV channel has been banned by Sri Lankan government in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks in the island nation in which over 250 people were killed. "After the terror attacks, Sri Lanka government decided to ban Zakir Naik`s TV channel. Do you know who Zakir Naik is? He is Zakir Naik in whose 'durbar' Diggi Raja (Digvijaya Singh) was once seen appreciating him. He is the same Zakir Naik, whom the Congress government had invited to address our police officers, that too on the topic of terrorism. `Doob Maro Congress Walon (Sink to death Congressmen)," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing an election rally in Madhya Pradesh. He said, "I have heard that a Congress leader here said that hit Modi so that he dies across the border. Congress people hate Modi so much that they are dreaming to kill him. But they have forgotten that the people of the country are batting from Modi`s side." "Now the Congress people should tell from whose side they are playing - India or Pakistan," he asked. "The Congress stands with those who say that Jammu and Kashmir should have its own Prime Minister. People can see how the party which ruled the country for so many years is indulging in anti-national activities," he said. Madhya Pradesh, where 29 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, has gone to one phase of seven-phased polling so far. The state will go to polls during remaining three phases of polling, which concludes on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

PM Modi asks Congressmen to sink to death for supporting Zakir Naik

The Election Commission Wednesday barred BJP candidate from Bhopal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pragya-singh-thakur-files-nomination-from-bhopal-lok-sabha-constituency-212601">Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur</a> from campaigning for 72 hours for her remarks on former ATS chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ips-association-condemns-sadhvi-pragyas-remark-on-2611-martyr-hemant-karkare-211827">Hemant Karkare </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhopal-election-officer-issues-notice-to-pragya-thakur-over-her-babri-masjid-remark-212237">Babri mosque demolition</a>.

The panel "strongly condemned" her remarks and warned her "not to repeat the misconduct in future".&nbsp;

The EC said though Pragya had apologised for her statement against the slain IPS officer, it found the statement to be "unwarranted".&nbsp;

The ban would come into force from 6.00 AM, May 2.&nbsp;

The Malegaon blast accused had said Karkare was killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack because of her "curse" as he "tortured" her when he probed the case as chief of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).

She also had said that she was "proud" of her participation in the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya in 1992.&nbsp;

In her response to the show cause notice on Karkare, she had said that the idea was to tell people how she was tortured allegedly at the behest of the Congress-led UPA government. She said she holds the right to tell people what she had gone through.

On Babri mosque, she said she had no intentions of creating divide between people and her statement only reflects her inner voice.

The EC found her statements to be "provocative" and having the potential to "spread hatred".

The Commission felt the statements were aimed at securing votes on "religious grounds".

Bhopal will vote in phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. Pragya is pitted against Congress leader Digvijay Singh.&nbsp;

The Election Commission Wednesday barred BJP candidate from Bhopal Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur from campaigning for 72 hours for her remarks on former ATS chief Hemant Karkare and Babri mosque demolition.

The Election Commission Wednesday barred BJP candidate from Bhopal Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur from campaigning for 72 hours for her remarks on former ATS chief Hemant Karkare and Babri mosque demolition. The panel "strongly condemned" her remarks and warned her "not to repeat the misconduct in future". The EC said though Pragya had apologised for her statement against the slain IPS officer, it found the statement to be "unwarranted". The ban would come into force from 6.00 AM, May 2. The Malegaon blast accused had said Karkare was killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack because of her "curse" as he "tortured" her when he probed the case as chief of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). She also had said that she was "proud" of her participation in the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya in 1992. In her response to the show cause notice on Karkare, she had said that the idea was to tell people how she was tortured allegedly at the behest of the Congress-led UPA government. She said she holds the right to tell people what she had gone through. On Babri mosque, she said she had no intentions of creating divide between people and her statement only reflects her inner voice. The EC found her statements to be "provocative" and having the potential to "spread hatred". The Commission felt the statements were aimed at securing votes on "religious grounds". Bhopal will vote in phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. Pragya is pitted against Congress leader Digvijay Singh.

Election Commission bars Pragya Thakur from campaigning for 72 hours for Karkare, Babri remarks

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir, who is contesting from east Delhi on BJP ticket, Wednesday challenged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for debate and accused him of betraying the people of the national capital.

Addressing a rally in Shastri Park, Gambhir said he was not scared of Pakistan during his cricketing days and will not be scared of debate.

"I challenge Arvind Kejriwal for debate in a public meeting. I have been challenged for a debate (by AAP's candidate Atishi) and it was said that I ran away from it. When I was not scared of Pakistan (as a cricket player), why would I be afraid of debate," he said.

Gambhir, who is locked in a triangular contest with the Aam Aadmi Party's Atishi and Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely, said he won't make false promises.

"Kejriwal has betrayed the people of Delhi. Modi has vision to make India a superpower. I am fortunate to have this opportunity. We need to work for a country that we can be proud of.&nbsp;

"We will make Delhi a city where people have clean drinking water and pure air to breath. I will not make any false promise," he added.&nbsp;

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir, who is contesting from east Delhi on BJP ticket, Wednesday challenged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for debate and accused him of betraying the people of the national capital.

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir, who is contesting from east Delhi on BJP ticket, Wednesday challenged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for debate and accused him of betraying the people of the national capital. Addressing a rally in Shastri Park, Gambhir said he was not scared of Pakistan during his cricketing days and will not be scared of debate. "I challenge Arvind Kejriwal for debate in a public meeting. I have been challenged for a debate (by AAP's candidate Atishi) and it was said that I ran away from it. When I was not scared of Pakistan (as a cricket player), why would I be afraid of debate," he said. Gambhir, who is locked in a triangular contest with the Aam Aadmi Party's Atishi and Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely, said he won't make false promises. "Kejriwal has betrayed the people of Delhi. Modi has vision to make India a superpower. I am fortunate to have this opportunity. We need to work for a country that we can be proud of. "We will make Delhi a city where people have clean drinking water and pure air to breath. I will not make any false promise," he added.

Gambhir challenges Kejriwal for debate, accuses him of betraying people of national capital

Refuting the ruling AAP's demand for full statehood to Delhi, Union minister and BJP's Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan wondered whether statehood could be given to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-lodges-complaints-with-election-commission-against-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-214025">chief minister like Arvind Kejriwal</a> with "dubious and questionable character".&nbsp;

In an interview to PTI, Vardhan, who is contesting for the second time from Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha seat, asserted that the national capital was suffering due to the AAP government's "negative mentality".&nbsp;

He said the Kejriwal-led government has done nothing for the people, except "wasting time in abusing the Prime Minister".

"Delhi is suffering because of the negative mentality of its government and the chief minister in particular. They have hardly done anything in the last four years. You can see their 70 promises and find there is hardly any promise that has been delivered," the minister said.&nbsp;

"They have not done anything except wasting their time and abusing the Prime Minister day in and day out. What has Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal done? Nothing. This is the same chief minister who felt proud in calling himself an 'anarchist' ahead of the Republic Day parade a couple of years ago.&nbsp;

"Now he (Kejriwal) is shouting about statehood. Do you think statehood can be given to a chief minister who is dubious and is of questionable character?" he said.

The AAP supremo had during a protest on January 20, 2014 in the city called himself an "anarchist". He had raised the demand of bringing Delhi police under the city government.&nbsp;

Vardhan, who holds the portfolios of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Science and Technology and Earth Sciences ministries, also blamed the AAP government for not cooperating in several developmental projects, including the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project.

"I initiated the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project a few months after taking over. The project was also started. Unfortunately, the chief minister (Kejriwal) refused support to the project. I am sure if we have the government in Delhi along with the central government, which we will get&nbsp;next month, we will be able to complete it," he asserted.

The project aims at creation of pedestrian-oriented space in Chandni Chowk, seen as a catalyst for revitalising economic, infrastructure and tourism potential of Shahjahanabad.&nbsp;

Highlighting his achievements in Chandni Chowk in the last five years, Vardhan said he gave people Rani Jhansi flyover which was lying incomplete for 10 years.

"Look at the Rani Jhansi flyover, it was lingering on for almost 10 years. I took up this project and every 15 days, I used to have a meeting and visit the project site. When there was some difficulty, I got Rs 86 crore sanctioned from the government to ensure that the municipal corporation does not run out of money," he said.&nbsp;

"I also delivered the road at Kishanganj. So many schools have been constructed in my constituency and community centres have been built.&nbsp;Over 200 gyms and 700 play apparatuses have been constructed. Several projects were also sanctioned by Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari," he added.

The four-time MLA from east Delhi's Krishna Nagar assembly constituency also lambasted the AAP for not providing support to municipal corporations of the city.&nbsp;

"Despite the fact that we do not have a government in Delhi, our road and surface transport minister (Nitin Gadkari) got Rs 46,000 crore worth schemes sanctioned for Delhi," Vardhan said.&nbsp;

"Whether it is east and west corridor or eastern and western peripheral expressway, we have given new metro lines and for every scheme, the government of Delhi is being supported.&nbsp;

"On the contrary, despite the massive support the Delhi government receives from the Centre, it does not pass on the same kind of support to the municipal corporations of Delhi (MCDs)," he said.

The senior BJP leader also hit out at the ruling AAP for its handling of 'safai karmachaaris' of the municipal corporations.&nbsp;

"You saw how badly people suffered when there was a strike by the safai karmacharis due to non-payment of salaries. They could not get the pay because money was not given by the government of Delhi. Unfortunately, the rules are such that the Centre cannot directly give money to the corporations and it has to be routed through the state government," he&nbsp;said.

Vardhan exuded confidence of a clean sweep, like the 2014 Lok Sabha poll verdict, in the national capital.&nbsp;

"I am pretty sure that like last time, we will win all seven seats in Delhi and with better margins," he said.&nbsp;

The incumbent MP from Chandni Chowk will be facing AAP's Pankaj Gupta and Congress candidate J P Agarwal.&nbsp;

Delhi will vote on May 12 and the results will be announced on May 23.

Refuting the ruling AAP's demand for full statehood to Delhi, Union minister and BJP's Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan wondered whether statehood could be given to a chief minister like Arvind Kejriwal with "dubious and questionable character".

Refuting the ruling AAP's demand for full statehood to Delhi, Union minister and BJP's Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan wondered whether statehood could be given to a chief minister like Arvind Kejriwal with "dubious and questionable character". In an interview to PTI, Vardhan, who is contesting for the second time from Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha seat, asserted that the national capital was suffering due to the AAP government's "negative mentality". He said the Kejriwal-led government has done nothing for the people, except "wasting time in abusing the Prime Minister". "Delhi is suffering because of the negative mentality of its government and the chief minister in particular. They have hardly done anything in the last four years. You can see their 70 promises and find there is hardly any promise that has been delivered," the minister said. "They have not done anything except wasting their time and abusing the Prime Minister day in and day out. What has Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal done? Nothing. This is the same chief minister who felt proud in calling himself an 'anarchist' ahead of the Republic Day parade a couple of years ago. "Now he (Kejriwal) is shouting about statehood. Do you think statehood can be given to a chief minister who is dubious and is of questionable character?" he said. The AAP supremo had during a protest on January 20, 2014 in the city called himself an "anarchist". He had raised the demand of bringing Delhi police under the city government. Vardhan, who holds the portfolios of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Science and Technology and Earth Sciences ministries, also blamed the AAP government for not cooperating in several developmental projects, including the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project. "I initiated the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project a few months after taking over. The project was also started. Unfortunately, the chief minister (Kejriwal) refused support to the project. I am sure if we have the government in Delhi along with the central government, which we will get next month, we will be able to complete it," he asserted. The project aims at creation of pedestrian-oriented space in Chandni Chowk, seen as a catalyst for revitalising economic, infrastructure and tourism potential of Shahjahanabad. Highlighting his achievements in Chandni Chowk in the last five years, Vardhan said he gave people Rani Jhansi flyover which was lying incomplete for 10 years. "Look at the Rani Jhansi flyover, it was lingering on for almost 10 years. I took up this project and every 15 days, I used to have a meeting and visit the project site. When there was some difficulty, I got Rs 86 crore sanctioned from the government to ensure that the municipal corporation does not run out of money," he said. "I also delivered the road at Kishanganj. So many schools have been constructed in my constituency and community centres have been built. Over 200 gyms and 700 play apparatuses have been constructed. Several projects were also sanctioned by Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari," he added. The four-time MLA from east Delhi's Krishna Nagar assembly constituency also lambasted the AAP for not providing support to municipal corporations of the city. "Despite the fact that we do not have a government in Delhi, our road and surface transport minister (Nitin Gadkari) got Rs 46,000 crore worth schemes sanctioned for Delhi," Vardhan said. "Whether it is east and west corridor or eastern and western peripheral expressway, we have given new metro lines and for every scheme, the government of Delhi is being supported. "On the contrary, despite the massive support the Delhi government receives from the Centre, it does not pass on the same kind of support to the municipal corporations of Delhi (MCDs)," he said. The senior BJP leader also hit out at the ruling AAP for its handling of 'safai karmachaaris' of the municipal corporations. "You saw how badly people suffered when there was a strike by the safai karmacharis due to non-payment of salaries. They could not get the pay because money was not given by the government of Delhi. Unfortunately, the rules are such that the Centre cannot directly give money to the corporations and it has to be routed through the state government," he said. Vardhan exuded confidence of a clean sweep, like the 2014 Lok Sabha poll verdict, in the national capital. "I am pretty sure that like last time, we will win all seven seats in Delhi and with better margins," he said. The incumbent MP from Chandni Chowk will be facing AAP's Pankaj Gupta and Congress candidate J P Agarwal. Delhi will vote on May 12 and the results will be announced on May 23.

How can full statehood be given to Kejriwal with 'dubious' character, says Harsh Vardhan 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/curbing-insurgency-in-northeast-my-biggest-achievement-as-home-minister-rajnath-singh-213723">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation.

"We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation. After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, our country has surged ahead with a fast pace," he said.

"The International Monetary Fund has also accepted that if there is any country which is growing at a fast pace, then it is India," Singh said here, addressing a meeting.

The Union minister, who represents the state capital in Lok Sabha, said it is his dream to see Lucknow become the most beautiful city not only in India but also in the world.

"I do not claim that poverty has been eradicated from the country but we have shown in the past five years, what did not happen in 65 years," he said.

Singh also called upon Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav to inquire about his health, a statement issued by the BJP said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation. "We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Saturday asserted that the BJP is in politics for building the nation. "We do not indulge in politics for the pleasures of being in power, but to build the nation. After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, our country has surged ahead with a fast pace," he said. "The International Monetary Fund has also accepted that if there is any country which is growing at a fast pace, then it is India," Singh said here, addressing a meeting. The Union minister, who represents the state capital in Lok Sabha, said it is his dream to see Lucknow become the most beautiful city not only in India but also in the world. "I do not claim that poverty has been eradicated from the country but we have shown in the past five years, what did not happen in 65 years," he said. Singh also called upon Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav to inquire about his health, a statement issued by the BJP said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP is in politics for building nation, says Rajnath Singh

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again.

"We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand.

Shah said during the Congress-led UPA government, terror groups from Pakistan used to target India continuously.

Jawans were beheaded by terrorists also, Shah&nbsp;said.

"We cannot compromise with the security of the nation. Pakistan wants to separate Kashmir from India. We will not allow it.

"Pakistan se goli aayegi to yahan se gola jayaga (if a bullet comes here, a shell lands there)," the BJP president said.

Launching a scathing attack on National conference leader Omar Abdullah for his remarks on having a separate prime minister for Kashmir, the BJP president said Kashmir is an inseparable part of India.

"Should there be two prime ministers for one country?" Shah asked the people.

The BJP has given the nation Modi as prime minister and the security of the country has been strengthened ever since, he said.

"When the nation rejoiced with sweets following the February 26 Balakot air strike, a pall of gloom descended on the Congress and Pakistan," Shah said.

He ridiculed Congress leader Sam Pitroda for saying that "some boys" had committed mistake and dropped bombs, and there should be talks.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. "We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. "We will remove Article 370 if you make Narendra Modi the prime minister again," Shah said at a public rally here in Palamau district in Jharkhand. Shah said during the Congress-led UPA government, terror groups from Pakistan used to target India continuously. Jawans were beheaded by terrorists also, Shah said. "We cannot compromise with the security of the nation. Pakistan wants to separate Kashmir from India. We will not allow it. "Pakistan se goli aayegi to yahan se gola jayaga (if a bullet comes here, a shell lands there)," the BJP president said. Launching a scathing attack on National conference leader Omar Abdullah for his remarks on having a separate prime minister for Kashmir, the BJP president said Kashmir is an inseparable part of India. "Should there be two prime ministers for one country?" Shah asked the people. The BJP has given the nation Modi as prime minister and the security of the country has been strengthened ever since, he said. "When the nation rejoiced with sweets following the February 26 Balakot air strike, a pall of gloom descended on the Congress and Pakistan," Shah said. He ridiculed Congress leader Sam Pitroda for saying that "some boys" had committed mistake and dropped bombs, and there should be talks.

Article 370 to be withdrawn from J&K if voted to power: Amit Shah

Police Saturday lodged a formal complaint against Gautam Gambhir, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gautam-gambhirs-nomination-from-east-delhi-accepted-by-returning-officer-213265">BJP's East Delhi Lok Sabha seat candidate</a>, for allegedly holding a public meeting in Jangpura without prior permission from authorities, officials said.

The complaint was lodged after East Delhi Returning Officer K Mahesh asked police to take action against the cricketer-turned-politician for allegedly violating rules.

"We have initiated action against Gautam Gambhir under sections 28/110 of the Delhi Police Act," Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast), said.

Police have registered a "kalandra", which is a formal complaint lodged by police in a non-cognisable offence under the act which gives special power to the force, another officer said.

Gambhir did not seek prior permission to hold a public meeting in Janpura on April 25, officials said.

However, Delhi BJP spokesperson Harish Khurana claimed that permission was taken for Gambhir's event and it continued somewhat longer than the scheduled duration.

The party's legal department will take appropriate steps in the matter, Khurana said.

The&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party has pitted Gambhir against AAP's Atishi and senior Congress leader Arvinder Singh Lovely from the East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency.

Gambhir is making his electoral debut from the seat and has been under attack from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over allegations that he had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/delhi-aap-rival-atishi-alleges-gautam-gambhir-holds-2-voter-ids-court-hearing-on-may-1-213712">double entries in voters list</a>.&nbsp;

Reacting to the developments, AAP's Atishi tweeted, "First, Discrepancies in nomination papers. Then, Criminal offence of having 2 voter IDs. Now, FIR for illegal rally (sic),"&nbsp;

"My question to Gautam Gambhir: When you don't know the rules, why play the game? (sic)&nbsp;she said on Twitter.

Atishi Thursday had filed a criminal complaint against Gambhir for allegedly enrolling as a voter in more than one constituency in violation of the Representation of the People Act (RPA).

Police Saturday lodged a formal complaint against Gautam Gambhir, BJP's East Delhi Lok Sabha seat candidate, for allegedly holding a public meeting in Jangpura without prior permission from authorities, officials said.

Police Saturday lodged a formal complaint against Gautam Gambhir, BJP's East Delhi Lok Sabha seat candidate, for allegedly holding a public meeting in Jangpura without prior permission from authorities, officials said. The complaint was lodged after East Delhi Returning Officer K Mahesh asked police to take action against the cricketer-turned-politician for allegedly violating rules. "We have initiated action against Gautam Gambhir under sections 28/110 of the Delhi Police Act," Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast), said. Police have registered a "kalandra", which is a formal complaint lodged by police in a non-cognisable offence under the act which gives special power to the force, another officer said. Gambhir did not seek prior permission to hold a public meeting in Janpura on April 25, officials said. However, Delhi BJP spokesperson Harish Khurana claimed that permission was taken for Gambhir's event and it continued somewhat longer than the scheduled duration. The party's legal department will take appropriate steps in the matter, Khurana said. The Bharatiya Janata Party has pitted Gambhir against AAP's Atishi and senior Congress leader Arvinder Singh Lovely from the East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency. Gambhir is making his electoral debut from the seat and has been under attack from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over allegations that he had double entries in voters list. Reacting to the developments, AAP's Atishi tweeted, "First, Discrepancies in nomination papers. Then, Criminal offence of having 2 voter IDs. Now, FIR for illegal rally (sic)," "My question to Gautam Gambhir: When you don't know the rules, why play the game? (sic) she said on Twitter. Atishi Thursday had filed a criminal complaint against Gambhir for allegedly enrolling as a voter in more than one constituency in violation of the Representation of the People Act (RPA).

Complaint lodged against Gautam Gambhir for holding public meeting without permission

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-bjp-leader-shatrughan-sinha-joins-congress-208300">Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha</a> on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side.

Speaking to ANI, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-shatrughan-sinha-to-challenge-ravi-shankar-prasad-in-bihars-patna-sahib-208336">Sinha</a> said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar."

"Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed.

Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence.

"Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna.

Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event.

Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar." "Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed. Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence. "Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna. Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event. Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Shatrughan Sinha clarifies his statement on Jinnah, calls it 'slip of tongue'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rajnath-slams-cong-over-balakot-air-strikes-chowkidar-jibe-213358">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

"The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"The NDA&nbsp;is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs."

Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin.&nbsp;BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272.

Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI. Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The NDA is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs." Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin. BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272. Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

NDA to get two-third majority in Lok Sabha: Rajnath Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday.

All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-mega-roadshow-in-varanasi-213438">which includes another road show</a> as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction.

A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari.

The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town.

"After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted.

Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris.

PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi and&nbsp;&nbsp;Rai&nbsp;will battle from&nbsp;Varanasi&nbsp;seat.

PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally.

Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, which includes another road show as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction. A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari. The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat. Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town. "After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted. Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris. PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time Prime Minister Modi and Rai will battle from Varanasi seat. PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally. Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to file nomination from Varanasi today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wanted-a-pm-who-can-attack-pakistan-uddhav-thackeray-on-alliance-with-bjp-211968">Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray</a> said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises.

He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

"We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later.

"Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said.

"Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped.

Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said.

In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials.

On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society.

"The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said.

The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil. "We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later. "Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said. "Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped. Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said. In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials. On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society. "The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said. The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Opposition parties should find a leader first, says Uddhav Thackeray

Maharashtra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strap-sceptical-opposition-leaders-on-rockets-to-balakot-fadnavis-212819">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a> Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008.

Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis&nbsp;said the voters should give a second term to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country.

During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government.

"What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said.

Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance.

The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come.

Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes.

Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition. Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008. Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis said the voters should give a second term to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country. During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government. "What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said. Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance. The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come. Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes. Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Polls offer choice between development, anarchy: Devendra Fadnavis

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties&nbsp; 
leaders were also present.

Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.&nbsp;

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel. BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties leaders were also present. Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.

Daler Mehndi joins Bharatiya Janata Party

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-incumbency-wave-for-the-first-time-in-country-pm-modi-213600">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday.

Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion.

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Before filing for his nomination, Modi addressed the party workers. He also&nbsp;visited the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

A day before filing his nomination, the&nbsp;Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari on Thursday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-files-nomination-from-varanasi-213634/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav are the other key candidates from Varanasi.&nbsp;

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes.&nbsp;

Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday. Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has filed his nomination from Varanasi for Lok Sabha constituency on Friday. Besides BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, top NDA leaders such as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Prakash Singh Badal and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray were also present to mark the occasion. #LokSabhaElections2019 : PM Narendra Modi files nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency. pic.twitter.com/V0RX2otJUv — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 26, 2019 × Before filing for his nomination, Modi addressed the party workers. He also visited the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A day before filing his nomination, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari on Thursday. Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav are the other key candidates from Varanasi. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi files nomination from Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism.

Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 para-military men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror.

Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives.

The prime minister will file his nomination papers Friday, seeking a second term in the Lok Sabha from the constituency.

Modi said he will not claim that whatever he had wished for the constituency had come true during the last five years. But the pace and the direction of its development are right, he said.

He said while the last five years of his government were about sincere effort, the next five years will be about results.

Earlier, Modi's roadshow drew a massive crowd.

Modi was joined by BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other senior BJP leaders in the temple town, on a day the Congress ended speculation over its leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting against him by announcing Ajay Rai's candidature. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday stressed on national security, saying a New India gives a befitting reply to terrorism. Addressing a meeting after a massive show of strength in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said his government had dealt effectively against terrorism. In an apparent reference to the Balakot air strike after Pakistan-based militants killed 40 para-military men in Pulwama, he said the world now backed India in its fight against terror. Modi also referred to the recent bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, saying innocent people observing Easter lost their lives. The prime minister will file his nomination papers Friday, seeking a second term in the Lok Sabha from the constituency. Modi said he will not claim that whatever he had wished for the constituency had come true during the last five years. But the pace and the direction of its development are right, he said. He said while the last five years of his government were about sincere effort, the next five years will be about results. Earlier, Modi's roadshow drew a massive crowd. Modi was joined by BJP president Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other senior BJP leaders in the temple town, on a day the Congress ended speculation over its leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting against him by announcing Ajay Rai's candidature.

New India gives befitting reply to terror: PM Modi

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rajnath-singh-files-nomination-from-lucknow-210886&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiYyOLXjOjhAhVr6nMBHR_MCLEQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1D8RizZQlIkCEDFGqb-e7C">Rajnath Singh</a> on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America).

"By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government has provided an immense boost to the economy of India.

"In 2014 we were at ninth place among the top 10 countries in terms of the size of the economy. After four years of governance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2018 we jumped to the sixth position," he said.

"And I say it with confidence that not in few years but in few months we will be at the fifth place," said Rajnath.

The Home Minister also said that the Prime Minister had assured that every paise earmarked for the welfare of the people reaches the common man.

"Rajiv Gandhi helplessly said that out of 100 Paise given by him only 16 Paise manages to reach the people but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has overcome this and now when 100 paise is sent, 100 paise reaches your pocket," said Singh.

Rajnath Singh also gave an assurance of completely wiping out Naxalism.

"Naxalism which was spread across 126 districts of the country is now restricted to only seven to eight districts. I assure you it will be entirely uprooted from India in the next three to four years," he said.

Jharkhand has 14 Lok Sabha constituencies which will go for polls on 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May for its 3, 4, 4 and 3 seats respectively.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America). "By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that by the year 2030 India could replace any one of the three world superpowers (Russia, China and America). "By 2030 or 2031 Bharat will replace any one of the three superpowers, either Russia, China or America from the list of top three countries of the world in terms of economy and strength," said Rajnath Singh while addressing an election rally at Chatra. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government has provided an immense boost to the economy of India. "In 2014 we were at ninth place among the top 10 countries in terms of the size of the economy. After four years of governance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2018 we jumped to the sixth position," he said. "And I say it with confidence that not in few years but in few months we will be at the fifth place," said Rajnath. The Home Minister also said that the Prime Minister had assured that every paise earmarked for the welfare of the people reaches the common man. "Rajiv Gandhi helplessly said that out of 100 Paise given by him only 16 Paise manages to reach the people but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has overcome this and now when 100 paise is sent, 100 paise reaches your pocket," said Singh. Rajnath Singh also gave an assurance of completely wiping out Naxalism. "Naxalism which was spread across 126 districts of the country is now restricted to only seven to eight districts. I assure you it will be entirely uprooted from India in the next three to four years," he said. Jharkhand has 14 Lok Sabha constituencies which will go for polls on 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May for its 3, 4, 4 and 3 seats respectively.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: By 2030 India will replace one of the top 3 superpowers, says Rajnath Singh

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law.

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-gautam-gambhir-richest-among-lok-sabha-candidates-in-delhi-213169&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjAso6Jn-jhAhVLqI8KHblqDXQQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw32x_HeZbVEMD9LKhv7JBud">BJP</a> has replaced Raj from the North West Lok Sabha constituency with Punjabi Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans.

Raj, who had earlier said he would contest as an independent candidate if the party did not announce his candidature, said he will decide his future course of action after consulting his supporters.

"I will not contest as an independent candidate. They (BJP) are forcing me to leave the party but I have not taken a decision on quitting. I will consult my supporters from across the country," he said.

Talking about the possible reasons why he was denied a ticket, Raj said, "When there was bandh in 2018 on SC-ST amendment, I protested, that's why the party leadership seemed to be unhappy with me.

When there was no government recruitment happening, was I not supposed to raise the issue? I will continue to raise the issues of Dalits", he said.

In 2018, the Supreme Court had issued a slew of guidelines to protect public servants and private employees from arbitrary arrests under the Atrocities Act.

The court directed that public servants can only be arrested with the written permission of their appointing authority.

This was seen as a dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, which led to protests across the country.

The government later brought in an amendment to nullify the apex court's order.&nbsp;

Raj claimed that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, three to four months ago, had told him that he would not be given a ticket.

"I am the best performer in the BJP's internal survey. Nobody talked to me on denial of ticket", he said.

''If I have faith in Modi and Shah, they should have told me that I would not be given the ticket. I have not resigned yet. Showing faith in Modi, we had merged our party with the BJP. Why am I being punished?" he asked.

On the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, supporters of Raj and Hans had raised slogans at the Delhi BJP office on Pandit Pant Marg.

Raj, along with supporters, had reached the office after hearing about Hans being considered by the party for the North West Delhi seat.

The former Indian Revenue Service officer had merged his Indian Justice Party (IJP) with the BJP and contested the Lok Sabha election from North West Delhi in 2014.

Raj claimed Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari had assured him of a ticket from North West Delhi.

He said he is in contact with senior party leaders Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley in this regard.

The BJP MP has often held views contrary to the party's stand, especially during the Sabarimala issue and 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations last year.

Earlier this month, he was at the centre of controversy after being caught in a sting done on several MPs, including Raj, which purportedly showed lawmakers accepting the use of black money for contesting polls.

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law.

Upset over the refusal of ticket for the Lok Sabha polls, BJP sitting MP from North West Delhi Udit Raj Tuesday said the party might have decided to drop him for protesting against the apex court's order that nullified the stringent provisions of the Dalit protection law. The BJP has replaced Raj from the North West Lok Sabha constituency with Punjabi Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans. Raj, who had earlier said he would contest as an independent candidate if the party did not announce his candidature, said he will decide his future course of action after consulting his supporters. "I will not contest as an independent candidate. They (BJP) are forcing me to leave the party but I have not taken a decision on quitting. I will consult my supporters from across the country," he said. Talking about the possible reasons why he was denied a ticket, Raj said, "When there was bandh in 2018 on SC-ST amendment, I protested, that's why the party leadership seemed to be unhappy with me. When there was no government recruitment happening, was I not supposed to raise the issue? I will continue to raise the issues of Dalits", he said. In 2018, the Supreme Court had issued a slew of guidelines to protect public servants and private employees from arbitrary arrests under the Atrocities Act. The court directed that public servants can only be arrested with the written permission of their appointing authority. This was seen as a dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, which led to protests across the country. The government later brought in an amendment to nullify the apex court's order. Raj claimed that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, three to four months ago, had told him that he would not be given a ticket. "I am the best performer in the BJP's internal survey. Nobody talked to me on denial of ticket", he said. ''If I have faith in Modi and Shah, they should have told me that I would not be given the ticket. I have not resigned yet. Showing faith in Modi, we had merged our party with the BJP. Why am I being punished?" he asked. On the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, supporters of Raj and Hans had raised slogans at the Delhi BJP office on Pandit Pant Marg. Raj, along with supporters, had reached the office after hearing about Hans being considered by the party for the North West Delhi seat. The former Indian Revenue Service officer had merged his Indian Justice Party (IJP) with the BJP and contested the Lok Sabha election from North West Delhi in 2014. Raj claimed Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari had assured him of a ticket from North West Delhi. He said he is in contact with senior party leaders Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley in this regard. The BJP MP has often held views contrary to the party's stand, especially during the Sabarimala issue and 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations last year. Earlier this month, he was at the centre of controversy after being caught in a sting done on several MPs, including Raj, which purportedly showed lawmakers accepting the use of black money for contesting polls.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Might have been denied ticket as I protested against Supreme Court order on Dalit law says Udit Raj

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls to be held in West Bengal, BJP president Amit Shah on Monday assured the people of the state that his party will help in restoring Saraswati puja and Durga puja again with respect.

Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata Shah said, "If someone can restore Saraswati pooja and Durga pooja again with respect, it is only the BJP".

On being asked if Prime Minister Modi will also contest from West Bengal, Shah said, "No, there is no such plan at the moment".

He also reiterated the party's stance on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and said, "The refugees who have come from Bangladesh, be it Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, or Christians, BJP has clearly signalled in its 'Sankalp Patra' that we will give them citizenship".

Adding that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-an-explainer-155549">National Register of Citizens</a> will not be just for Bengal but also for the whole country, Shah said, "Citizenship Amendment Bill will come first, all refugees will be given citizenship after that NRC will be made. Refugees shouldn't worry, only infiltrators should. First, the Citizenship Amendment Bill&nbsp;will come then NRC, NRC will not be for just Bengal but for the whole country".

"I request the&nbsp;people of Bengal to vote without fear; BJP workers are guarding them as protectors of democracy in the Lok Sabha Polls," he said.

Hitting out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-mamata-banerjee-takes-a-u-turn-on-national-register-of-citizens-156891">West Bengal chief minister</a>, Shah said, "Mamata Banerjee is under pressure after the end of second phase polls. There is politics of appeasement in Bengal."

"Mamata Banerjee did not allow my rallies in Bengal, now the people here are not coming out in to attend her rallies," he added.

Commenting on BJP candidate from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur, he said, "As far as Sadhvi Pragya is considered, I want to say that a false case was registered as to allege that there is Hindu terror. The court proceedings found the case to be false."

Praising the Prime Minister led-NDA government Shah said, "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at Centre, we have provided 10,000 poor with household in this district. Also, 3,000 urban poor got households. BJP gave gas connections to 7 crore houses, 8 crore houses got toilets and 50 crore poor will get Rs 5 lakh Insurance under Ayushman Bharat scheme."&nbsp;

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Amit Shah in Kolkata, West Bengal: Batla House ka jab encounter hua, Sonia Ji ko rona aa gaya Batla House ke aatankwadiyon ke marne par, jabki apna ek bahadur Police Inspector waha shaheed ho gaya, uske mrityu par rona nahi aaya, is par Congress ko jawab dena chahiye <a href="https://t.co/fFMtLXeJqS">pic.twitter.com/fFMtLXeJqS</a>
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To a question on alleged discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in Congress president Rahul Gandhi's poll affidavit filed at Amethi, Shah said the returning officer concerned should look into it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls to be held in West Bengal, BJP president Amit Shah on Monday assured the people of the state that his party will help in restoring Saraswati puja and Durga puja again with respect.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls to be held in West Bengal, BJP president Amit Shah on Monday assured the people of the state that his party will help in restoring Saraswati puja and Durga puja again with respect. Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata Shah said, "If someone can restore Saraswati pooja and Durga pooja again with respect, it is only the BJP". On being asked if Prime Minister Modi will also contest from West Bengal, Shah said, "No, there is no such plan at the moment". He also reiterated the party's stance on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and said, "The refugees who have come from Bangladesh, be it Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, or Christians, BJP has clearly signalled in its 'Sankalp Patra' that we will give them citizenship". Adding that the National Register of Citizens will not be just for Bengal but also for the whole country, Shah said, "Citizenship Amendment Bill will come first, all refugees will be given citizenship after that NRC will be made. Refugees shouldn't worry, only infiltrators should. First, the Citizenship Amendment Bill will come then NRC, NRC will not be for just Bengal but for the whole country". "I request the people of Bengal to vote without fear; BJP workers are guarding them as protectors of democracy in the Lok Sabha Polls," he said. Hitting out at West Bengal chief minister, Shah said, "Mamata Banerjee is under pressure after the end of second phase polls. There is politics of appeasement in Bengal." "Mamata Banerjee did not allow my rallies in Bengal, now the people here are not coming out in to attend her rallies," he added. Commenting on BJP candidate from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur, he said, "As far as Sadhvi Pragya is considered, I want to say that a false case was registered as to allege that there is Hindu terror. The court proceedings found the case to be false." Praising the Prime Minister led-NDA government Shah said, "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at Centre, we have provided 10,000 poor with household in this district. Also, 3,000 urban poor got households. BJP gave gas connections to 7 crore houses, 8 crore houses got toilets and 50 crore poor will get Rs 5 lakh Insurance under Ayushman Bharat scheme." Amit Shah in Kolkata, West Bengal: Batla House ka jab encounter hua, Sonia Ji ko rona aa gaya Batla House ke aatankwadiyon ke marne par, jabki apna ek bahadur Police Inspector waha shaheed ho gaya, uske mrityu par rona nahi aaya, is par Congress ko jawab dena chahiye pic.twitter.com/fFMtLXeJqS — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2019 × To a question on alleged discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in Congress president Rahul Gandhi's poll affidavit filed at Amethi, Shah said the returning officer concerned should look into it. (With inputs from agencies)

NRC will not be just for Bengal but for the whole country: Amit Shah in Kolkata