Star power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-amit-shah-files-nomination-for-gandhinagar-seat-206682">president Amit Shah </a>said on Monday that he is confident that his party will get the mandate again in this election and that Congress will remain out of power for at least 5 years.

Talking about "zero tolerance on terror", Amit Shah said Modi's government has shown that no terror attack will go unpunished and the country will give a befitting reply to all such attacks.&nbsp;

"Jab hamla hoga to goli ka jawab gole se diya jayega (When attacked, we will respond to bullets with bombs)," the BJP chief told Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary at Zee News's 'India Ka DNA' conclave.&nbsp;

"BJP's aim is to change the country and not worry about Lutyens Delhi and its media. Congress coined Hindu terror for vote bank. Now even the court has ruled that the case was cooked up," he said.

He said that people should always think about the security of the country and it was a good thing that it had become an election issue.&nbsp;

"Citizens of the country should always think about the security of the country. Country's security should be an election agenda. Every country must think about security and it should become criteria for voting," Shah said.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said on Monday that he is confident that his party will get the mandate again in this election and that Congress will remain out of power for at least 5 years.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said on Monday that he is confident that his party will get the mandate again in this election and that Congress will remain out of power for at least 5 years. Talking about "zero tolerance on terror", Amit Shah said Modi's government has shown that no terror attack will go unpunished and the country will give a befitting reply to all such attacks. "Jab hamla hoga to goli ka jawab gole se diya jayega (When attacked, we will respond to bullets with bombs)," the BJP chief told Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary at Zee News's 'India Ka DNA' conclave. "BJP's aim is to change the country and not worry about Lutyens Delhi and its media. Congress coined Hindu terror for vote bank. Now even the court has ruled that the case was cooked up," he said. He said that people should always think about the security of the country and it was a good thing that it had become an election issue. "Citizens of the country should always think about the security of the country. Country's security should be an election agenda. Every country must think about security and it should become criteria for voting," Shah said.

Congress will remain out of power for at least 5 years, says Amit Shah at 'India ka DNA' conclave

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30.

Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time. He has been fielded from Gandhinagar constituency, which is currently held by BJP veteran LK Advani.

"He will file the nomination at 12:30 pm on Saturday in the presence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh, former Chief Minister of Punjab Parkash Singh Badal, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Lok Janshakti Party president Ram Vilas Paswan and BJP`s national general secretary Ram Lal," said Mahendra Panday, BJP secretary, in a press release.

Before filing the nomination, Shah will address a huge election rally in Naranpura area of Ahmedabad, followed by a roadshow which will start from DRH Regency hotel and culminate at Patidar Chowk in Ghatlodia area.

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut told ANI, "Amit Shah called up Uddhav Thackeray and extended a special invitation, requesting our party chief to accompany him to file nomination in Gandhinagar. He has accepted the nomination."&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30. Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah will file his nomination papers from Gandhinagar constituency on March 30. Shah, who is a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), will contest the Lok Sabha elections for the first time. He has been fielded from Gandhinagar constituency, which is currently held by BJP veteran LK Advani. "He will file the nomination at 12:30 pm on Saturday in the presence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh, former Chief Minister of Punjab Parkash Singh Badal, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Lok Janshakti Party president Ram Vilas Paswan and BJP`s national general secretary Ram Lal," said Mahendra Panday, BJP secretary, in a press release. Before filing the nomination, Shah will address a huge election rally in Naranpura area of Ahmedabad, followed by a roadshow which will start from DRH Regency hotel and culminate at Patidar Chowk in Ghatlodia area. Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut told ANI, "Amit Shah called up Uddhav Thackeray and extended a special invitation, requesting our party chief to accompany him to file nomination in Gandhinagar. He has accepted the nomination."

Amit Shah to file his nomination from Gandhinagar on Saturday

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media.

At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate.

So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars.&nbsp;

No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty?

We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party.

In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state.&nbsp;

Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.”&nbsp;

Touche.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-main-bhi-chowkidar-vs-chowkidar-chor-hai-who-is-winning-2732122">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore.

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media. At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate. So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars. No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty? We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party. In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state. Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.” Touche. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

'Main bhi chowkidar' vs 'Chowkidar chor hai': Who is winning?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-submits-trump-russia-report-clamour-grows-for-its-quick-release-204966">Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release</a>

Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995">Pakistan national day: PM Modi writes </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995">letter</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995"> to Pak PM as part of customary practice; calls for terror-free South Asia</a>

India has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had written a letter to Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan as part of the diplomatic practice of writing to the Heads of state/Govt on their respective National Days. The letter is sent to all countries with whom India shares diplomatic relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-asks-un-council-to-uphold-resolutions-on-golan-heights-204971">Syria asks UN council to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights</a>

Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraws from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muslims-return-to-christchurch-mosque-as-new-zealand-works-to-move-on-204991">Muslims return to Christchurch mosque as New Zealand works to move on</a>

Muslims returned to Christchurch's main mosque on Saturday for the first time since a white supremacist massacred worshippers there, as New Zealand sought to return to normality after the tragedy.

The Al Noor mosque was taken over by police for investigations and security reasons after alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant attacked Muslims gathered there and at a smaller mosque for Friday prayers, killing 50 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-list-of-36-candidates-sambit-patra-to-contest-from-puri-204967">Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 36 candidates, Sambit Patra to contest from Puri</a>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections.

The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release.

Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release. Pakistan national day: PM Modi writes letter to Pak PM as part of customary practice; calls for terror-free South Asia India has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had written a letter to Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan as part of the diplomatic practice of writing to the Heads of state/Govt on their respective National Days. The letter is sent to all countries with whom India shares diplomatic relations. Syria asks UN council to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraws from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory. Muslims return to Christchurch mosque as New Zealand works to move on Muslims returned to Christchurch's main mosque on Saturday for the first time since a white supremacist massacred worshippers there, as New Zealand sought to return to normality after the tragedy. The Al Noor mosque was taken over by police for investigations and security reasons after alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant attacked Muslims gathered there and at a smaller mosque for Friday prayers, killing 50 people. Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 36 candidates, Sambit Patra to contest from Puri The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections. The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

News brief: Big stories of the day

Intensifying his 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' (I too am watchman) campaign, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-manohar-parrikar-in-goa-204051">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on March 31 will interact with people, who have pledged their support to the campaign, from 500 places across the country.

Speaking at a press conference here, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the campaign has become a "people's movement" as the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' hashtag has been tweeted 20 lakh times and had 1680 crore impressions.

Replying to a question if the campaign was a counter to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's 'chowkidar chor hai' (watchman is the thief) barb, he rejected the suggestion and asserted that Modi in his campaign for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls had projected himself as the "first servant" and 'chowkidar' of the country.

On Saturday, Modi had urged his supporters to take the ''main bhi chowkidar''&nbsp;(I too am watchman) pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils.

Following his appeal, all BJP leaders, including party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers, prefixed the word 'chowkidar' to their names in their Twitter profile as they sought people's support in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Intensifying his 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' (I too am watchman) campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 31 will interact with people, who have pledged their support to the campaign, from 500 places across the country.

Intensifying his 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' (I too am watchman) campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 31 will interact with people, who have pledged their support to the campaign, from 500 places across the country. Speaking at a press conference here, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the campaign has become a "people's movement" as the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' hashtag has been tweeted 20 lakh times and had 1680 crore impressions. Replying to a question if the campaign was a counter to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's 'chowkidar chor hai' (watchman is the thief) barb, he rejected the suggestion and asserted that Modi in his campaign for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls had projected himself as the "first servant" and 'chowkidar' of the country. On Saturday, Modi had urged his supporters to take the ''main bhi chowkidar'' (I too am watchman) pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils. Following his appeal, all BJP leaders, including party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers, prefixed the word 'chowkidar' to their names in their Twitter profile as they sought people's support in the Lok Sabha elections.

PM Modi to interact with people on March 31 over 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-andhra-arunachal-candidates-list-203879">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday. 
 
The party's media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said the BJP through a series of programmes such as 'Mera Parivar, Bhajapa Parivar', mega contact drive and 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies, has reached out to over 10 crore people recently. 
 
While Modi has relied on rallies and addressing party workers and beneficiaries of his government's schemes through video- conferences for his campaign, party president Amit Shah has done so by holding public meetings, speaking to social media volunteers and addressing booth-level workers in over 130 Lok Sabha constituencies. 
 
Election to the 543-member Lok Sabha will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. 
 
Modi began his public outreach ahead of the Lok Sabha elections with programmes, including a rally, in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 29 and 30 and has travelled to different parts of the country while also using the tool of video-conference to contact the masses and party workers, the BJP said. 
 
Shah started his campaign for the polls with a visit to Tripura on January 5 and has held over 45 public meetings till March 7. 
 
After the announcement of the poll schedule by the Election Commission, Modi and Shah have not begun their campaign yet. 
 
Baluni asserted that people have been showing massive support for Modi and the BJP. 
 
'People have decided on having the Modi government once more,'&nbsp;he said, adding that India has become 'prosperous, secure and decisive'&nbsp;under him.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday. The party's media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said the BJP through a series of programmes such as 'Mera Parivar, Bhajapa Parivar', mega contact drive and 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies, has reached out to over 10 crore people recently. While Modi has relied on rallies and addressing party workers and beneficiaries of his government's schemes through video- conferences for his campaign, party president Amit Shah has done so by holding public meetings, speaking to social media volunteers and addressing booth-level workers in over 130 Lok Sabha constituencies. Election to the 543-member Lok Sabha will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. Modi began his public outreach ahead of the Lok Sabha elections with programmes, including a rally, in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 29 and 30 and has travelled to different parts of the country while also using the tool of video-conference to contact the masses and party workers, the BJP said. Shah started his campaign for the polls with a visit to Tripura on January 5 and has held over 45 public meetings till March 7. After the announcement of the poll schedule by the Election Commission, Modi and Shah have not begun their campaign yet. Baluni asserted that people have been showing massive support for Modi and the BJP. 'People have decided on having the Modi government once more,' he said, adding that India has become 'prosperous, secure and decisive' under him.

PM Modi addressed rallies in 100 Lok Sabha seats in last few weeks: BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
“फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। 
 
अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती <a href="https://twitter.com/AnupriyaSPatel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnupriyaSPatel</a> जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। <a href="https://t.co/kBbuAyBs7m">pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1106495389106999296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties.

With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said.&nbsp;

Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats.

In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur. “फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती @AnupriyaSPatel जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 15, 2019 × Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties. With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said. Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats. In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

Lok Sabha polls: BJP seals alliance with Apna Dal (S), give 2 seats

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780">UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780">list</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-rejects-hafiz-saeeds-plea-for-removal-from-list-of-banned-terrorists-govt-sources-201780"> of banned terrorists</a>

In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-police-arrest-suspect-in-bus-stand-grenade-attack-201771">Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest suspect in bus stand grenade attack</a>

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI.

According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-did-he-disclose-about-pulwama-and-balakot-strikes-ravi-shankar-prasad-asks-rahul-gandhi-to-clarify-on-meeting-with-g20-envoys-201803">'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys</a>

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-backed-force-in-syria-hopes-to-complete-evacuation-of-islamic-state-enclave-on-thursday-201764">US-backed force in Syria hopes to complete evacuation of Islamic State enclave today</a>

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hopes the evacuation of people wishing to leave Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria will be completed on Thursday, an SDF commander said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-says-in-high-state-of-preparedness-to-tackle-any-threat-to-countrys-security-201798">IAF says in 'high state of preparedness' to tackle any threat to national security</a>

The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security.&nbsp;

In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".&nbsp;

UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from list of banned terrorists In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday.

UN rejects Hafiz Saeed's plea for removal from list of banned terrorists In a significant development, the United Nations has rejected an appeal of Jammat--ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, to remove his name from its list of banned terrorists, government sources said on Thursday. Jammu and Kashmir: Police arrest suspect in bus stand grenade attack Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said the suspected perpetrator of the grenade blast at a bus stand has been arrested. DGP Dilbagh Singh shared the information with news agency ANI. According to reports, the suspect hails from Kulgam; more details are awaited. 'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday. US-backed force in Syria hopes to complete evacuation of Islamic State enclave today The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hopes the evacuation of people wishing to leave Islamic State's last enclave in eastern Syria will be completed on Thursday, an SDF commander said. IAF says in 'high state of preparedness' to tackle any threat to national security The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security. In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".

The Bharatiya Janata Party is finally getting its act together on the alliance front. Over the last few days, it managed to salvage its partnership with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra; stitched a deal with the AIADMK and one other smaller outfit in Tamil Nadu; and seemingly placated the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) in Uttar Pradesh, which had threatened to quit the NDA. Senior BJP leaders have also reached out to another disgruntled NDA constituent, Apna Dal (Sonelal), in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Besides, the party has set its sight on a few post-poll partnerships since it felt, for good reasons, that a pre-election understanding would be counter-productive. A later understanding with the YSR Congress Party in Andhra Pradesh is one such possibility. 
 
A pre-poll tie-up between the BJP and the YSR Congress Party does not make sense because the latter’s leader Jagan Mohan Reddy is seeking to exploit the issue of his state not been given a special status in the upcoming elections, and here he wants to put the BJP-led NDA regime in the dock. At the same time, he is more opposed to Chandrababu Naidu and the TDP, who are his main rivals in Andhra Pradesh. Now that Naidu has quit the NDA, the coast is clear for Jagan Mohan Reddy to strike a bargain with the BJP post-results. &nbsp;

In Telangana, the TRS is dependent on Muslim votes, which is why he has consistently humoured Asaduddin Owaisi, who has pockets of influence in the old Hyderabad city. Given that Owaisi is a bitter critic of the BJP and the TRS needs him more in the pre-poll stage than it needs the BJP, any understanding between the TRS and the BJP will have to wait until after the results are announced.

As for the BJD, the ruling party in Odisha is facing a severe challenge from the BJP this time around, and many poll pundits are seeing a surge in the number of BJP seats from the state following the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

Since both the BJP and the BJD have now locked horns, any pact can happen only after the election dust has settled down. It must be remembered that in the five years gone by, both the BJD and the YSR Congress party, especially the BJD, had backed many of the Modi government’s initiatives. More importantly, it has maintained a distance from the various ‘third front’ confabulations across the country.&nbsp;

That said, the deal between the Shiv Sena and the BJP is the most important development of all. Maharashtra is an important state, contributing 48 seats to the Lok Sabha. Most poll analysts had pointed out that, if the two parties contested separately — and against each other as a consequence — both would be major losers, and the gainer would be the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alliance. It was perhaps this realisation than a sudden spurt of love for each other that compelled the warring allies to bury the hatchet.

This also explains the give and take both the parties agreed to, with the Sena settling for a couple of seats lesser than the BJP for the Lok Sabha and the BJP accepting a 50:50 sharing basis for the state Assembly polls that are to follow in a few months of the general elections. The Sena-BJP pact has seriously undermined the prospects of the Congress-NCP coalition. It would be wrong to say that all creases have been ironed out, but a tentative partnership is still better than no partnership. &nbsp;

In Uttar Pradesh, both the Apna Dal (Sonelal) and the SBSP are small players but they have a committed vote base. The latter had won no Lok Sabha seat in 2014 but did better in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls after it allied with the BJP, winning four constituencies. Its leader OP Rajbhar has had problems with the Yogi Adityanath government in the state, but things appear to have settled down somewhat after his marathon meeting with BJP president Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Yet, the final word is yet to be said, since the seat-sharing matter remains to be tackled. Apna Dal (Sonelal) too has grievances similar to that of the SBSP — that big brother BJP has not given it the respect it deserves. Its leader Anupriya Patel is a Minister in Modi’s government but there is a feeling that the party has been neglected but the BJP, more especially after the latter rode to an unprecedented victory in the last State polls. Given the tough challenge it faces in Uttar Pradesh from the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party combine, the BJP would not want its allies in the state to walk away. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Will the outreach and the alliances, new and old, work for the BJP? In Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, they should have an impact. One is not sure about Tamil Nadu, though, where the AIADMK has become unpopular, and weak after a split in the party. Its unpopularity could drag down the BJP (which, not having a big mass base there, has to depend on the regional ally), as well as the other regional partner, the PMK.

Nevertheless, with every seat counting in what is billed as a furiously contested 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BJP can at least take heart from the alliances it has managed to secure. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Bharatiya Janata Party is finally getting its act together on the alliance front. Over the last few days, it managed to salvage its partnership with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra; stitched a deal with the AIADMK and one other smaller outfit in Tamil Nadu; and seemingly placated the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) in Uttar Pradesh, which had threatened to quit the NDA.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is finally getting its act together on the alliance front. Over the last few days, it managed to salvage its partnership with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra; stitched a deal with the AIADMK and one other smaller outfit in Tamil Nadu; and seemingly placated the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) in Uttar Pradesh, which had threatened to quit the NDA. Senior BJP leaders have also reached out to another disgruntled NDA constituent, Apna Dal (Sonelal), in Uttar Pradesh. Besides, the party has set its sight on a few post-poll partnerships since it felt, for good reasons, that a pre-election understanding would be counter-productive. A later understanding with the YSR Congress Party in Andhra Pradesh is one such possibility. A pre-poll tie-up between the BJP and the YSR Congress Party does not make sense because the latter’s leader Jagan Mohan Reddy is seeking to exploit the issue of his state not been given a special status in the upcoming elections, and here he wants to put the BJP-led NDA regime in the dock. At the same time, he is more opposed to Chandrababu Naidu and the TDP, who are his main rivals in Andhra Pradesh. Now that Naidu has quit the NDA, the coast is clear for Jagan Mohan Reddy to strike a bargain with the BJP post-results. In Telangana, the TRS is dependent on Muslim votes, which is why he has consistently humoured Asaduddin Owaisi, who has pockets of influence in the old Hyderabad city. Given that Owaisi is a bitter critic of the BJP and the TRS needs him more in the pre-poll stage than it needs the BJP, any understanding between the TRS and the BJP will have to wait until after the results are announced. As for the BJD, the ruling party in Odisha is facing a severe challenge from the BJP this time around, and many poll pundits are seeing a surge in the number of BJP seats from the state following the Lok Sabha polls. Since both the BJP and the BJD have now locked horns, any pact can happen only after the election dust has settled down. It must be remembered that in the five years gone by, both the BJD and the YSR Congress party, especially the BJD, had backed many of the Modi government’s initiatives. More importantly, it has maintained a distance from the various ‘third front’ confabulations across the country. That said, the deal between the Shiv Sena and the BJP is the most important development of all. Maharashtra is an important state, contributing 48 seats to the Lok Sabha. Most poll analysts had pointed out that, if the two parties contested separately — and against each other as a consequence — both would be major losers, and the gainer would be the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alliance. It was perhaps this realisation than a sudden spurt of love for each other that compelled the warring allies to bury the hatchet. This also explains the give and take both the parties agreed to, with the Sena settling for a couple of seats lesser than the BJP for the Lok Sabha and the BJP accepting a 50:50 sharing basis for the state Assembly polls that are to follow in a few months of the general elections. The Sena-BJP pact has seriously undermined the prospects of the Congress-NCP coalition. It would be wrong to say that all creases have been ironed out, but a tentative partnership is still better than no partnership. In Uttar Pradesh, both the Apna Dal (Sonelal) and the SBSP are small players but they have a committed vote base. The latter had won no Lok Sabha seat in 2014 but did better in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls after it allied with the BJP, winning four constituencies. Its leader OP Rajbhar has had problems with the Yogi Adityanath government in the state, but things appear to have settled down somewhat after his marathon meeting with BJP president Amit Shah. Yet, the final word is yet to be said, since the seat-sharing matter remains to be tackled. Apna Dal (Sonelal) too has grievances similar to that of the SBSP — that big brother BJP has not given it the respect it deserves. Its leader Anupriya Patel is a Minister in Modi’s government but there is a feeling that the party has been neglected but the BJP, more especially after the latter rode to an unprecedented victory in the last State polls. Given the tough challenge it faces in Uttar Pradesh from the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party combine, the BJP would not want its allies in the state to walk away. Will the outreach and the alliances, new and old, work for the BJP? In Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, they should have an impact. One is not sure about Tamil Nadu, though, where the AIADMK has become unpopular, and weak after a split in the party. Its unpopularity could drag down the BJP (which, not having a big mass base there, has to depend on the regional ally), as well as the other regional partner, the PMK. Nevertheless, with every seat counting in what is billed as a furiously contested 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BJP can at least take heart from the alliances it has managed to secure. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Alliance arithmetic: BJP to beat opposition at its own game?

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday said the country had transformed from among the "fragile five" nations to the world's fastest-growing economy.

He was addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) booth-level workers through video-conferencing and was speaking against the backdrop of the "#5yearchallenge" currently trending on social media platforms.

"Earlier, Indian governments used to remain in national and international headlines for scams. Nowadays, there is no discussion on scams, but on new schemes," Modi said, adding that the country had moved from scams to schemes in the last five years.

Five years ago, the world saw India as a nation from where news about scams, electricity shortage and financial crises emanated, the prime minister said.

This perspective, he added, had changed and the world now viewed the country with "vishwas" (belief and trust).

Touching on the topic of Maoist violence, Modi said the menace was once overpowering but now, had been contained and restricted to very few districts.

He added that the bravery of security forces and people's support over the last five years had ensured that the nation had won the battle against&nbsp; 
Maoist violence.

Five years ago, there used to be headlines that the country did not have enough toilets, causing embarrassment to women, Modi said.

Now, nine crore toilets had been constructed and sanitation coverage in the country had gone up from 38 per cent (when the National Democratic Alliance came to power in 2014) to 98 per cent, he added.

There was a time when 70 crore Indians had to go without electricity due to the failure of the northern (power) grid, he said, adding that today, several crore households had received electricity connection.

The prime minister said the country's economy, which had once faced the challenge of high inflation and low growth, was now witnessing a low inflation and high growth -- a transformation that had happened over the last four-and-a-half years.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the country had transformed from among the "fragile five" nations to the world's fastest-growing economy. He was addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) booth-level workers through video-conferencing and was speaking against the backdrop of the "#5yearchallenge" currently trending on social media platforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the country had transformed from among the "fragile five" nations to the world's fastest-growing economy. He was addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) booth-level workers through video-conferencing and was speaking against the backdrop of the "#5yearchallenge" currently trending on social media platforms. "Earlier, Indian governments used to remain in national and international headlines for scams. Nowadays, there is no discussion on scams, but on new schemes," Modi said, adding that the country had moved from scams to schemes in the last five years. Five years ago, the world saw India as a nation from where news about scams, electricity shortage and financial crises emanated, the prime minister said. This perspective, he added, had changed and the world now viewed the country with "vishwas" (belief and trust). Touching on the topic of Maoist violence, Modi said the menace was once overpowering but now, had been contained and restricted to very few districts. He added that the bravery of security forces and people's support over the last five years had ensured that the nation had won the battle against Maoist violence. Five years ago, there used to be headlines that the country did not have enough toilets, causing embarrassment to women, Modi said. Now, nine crore toilets had been constructed and sanitation coverage in the country had gone up from 38 per cent (when the National Democratic Alliance came to power in 2014) to 98 per cent, he added. There was a time when 70 crore Indians had to go without electricity due to the failure of the northern (power) grid, he said, adding that today, several crore households had received electricity connection. The prime minister said the country's economy, which had once faced the challenge of high inflation and low growth, was now witnessing a low inflation and high growth -- a transformation that had happened over the last four-and-a-half years.

Once 'fragile', Indian economy now world's fastest-growing: PM Modi

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Karnataka State president and former chief minister BS Yeddyurappa on Saturday called back all BJP MLAs camping in Gurugram.

The BJP MLAs from Karnataka said they were in Gurugram since Monday evening to devise strategies for the coming Lok Sabha polls, and not to avoid being "poached" by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance.

Earlier in the week, Yeddyurappa had alleged that Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy was indulging in horse-trading by offering money and ministerial posts to BJP MLAs.

"We are not indulging in any poaching. It is Chief Minister Kumaraswamy who is indulging in horse-trading. He himself is offering money and ministerial posts to our MLAs," he had said.

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Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa, in Bengaluru: Our MLAs are returning to Bengaluru from Delhi. We will tour the state and analyse the situation of drought. We will not destabilize this govt at any cost. Congress and JDS need not worry. <a href="https://t.co/gQyH4OaIoR">pic.twitter.com/gQyH4OaIoR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086474874309115904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The charges of horse-trading were triggered after three Karnataka Congress MLAs visited Mumbai on Monday, reportedly along with some BJP MLAs.

This was followed by the Congress` allegation that the BJP was trying to poach the ruling party's MLAs to destabilise the ruling coalition government in Karnataka.

Political turmoil intensified after two independent MLAs in the Karnataka Assembly - R Shankar and H Nagesh - withdrew their support from the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state on Tuesday.

The two MLAs had gone incommunicado two days ago before announcing their decision at a press conference in Mumbai.In the 224-member Assembly, JD(S) has 37 MLAs and the Congress 80.

The Congress-JD(S) alliance has the support of some Independents in the House where the majority figure is 113 stay in power.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Karnataka State president and former chief minister BS Yeddyurappa on Saturday called back all BJP MLAs camping in Gurugram. The BJP MLAs from Karnataka said they were in Gurugram since Monday evening to devise strategies for the coming Lok Sabha polls, and not to avoid being "poached" by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Karnataka State president and former chief minister BS Yeddyurappa on Saturday called back all BJP MLAs camping in Gurugram. The BJP MLAs from Karnataka said they were in Gurugram since Monday evening to devise strategies for the coming Lok Sabha polls, and not to avoid being "poached" by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance. Earlier in the week, Yeddyurappa had alleged that Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy was indulging in horse-trading by offering money and ministerial posts to BJP MLAs. "We are not indulging in any poaching. It is Chief Minister Kumaraswamy who is indulging in horse-trading. He himself is offering money and ministerial posts to our MLAs," he had said. Former Karnataka CM and BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa, in Bengaluru: Our MLAs are returning to Bengaluru from Delhi. We will tour the state and analyse the situation of drought. We will not destabilize this govt at any cost. Congress and JDS need not worry. pic.twitter.com/gQyH4OaIoR — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × The charges of horse-trading were triggered after three Karnataka Congress MLAs visited Mumbai on Monday, reportedly along with some BJP MLAs. This was followed by the Congress` allegation that the BJP was trying to poach the ruling party's MLAs to destabilise the ruling coalition government in Karnataka. Political turmoil intensified after two independent MLAs in the Karnataka Assembly - R Shankar and H Nagesh - withdrew their support from the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state on Tuesday. The two MLAs had gone incommunicado two days ago before announcing their decision at a press conference in Mumbai.In the 224-member Assembly, JD(S) has 37 MLAs and the Congress 80. The Congress-JD(S) alliance has the support of some Independents in the House where the majority figure is 113 stay in power.

Yeddyurappa calls back all BJP MLAs camping in Gurugram

The chief of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Amit Shah, will be discharged from hospital in a day or two after a bout of swine flu, a party spokesman said on Thursday.

It is not clear how Shah contracted&nbsp;the H1N1 influenza.

"Amit Shah ji is doing well. He will be discharged in a day or two.&nbsp;Thanks everyone for your good wishes!,"&nbsp;Anil Baluni, spokesman of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party said in a tweet.

Health officials said lower than normal temperatures this winter have led to a spike in cases of swine flu in northern India.

"Cases of seasonal swine flu in India go up during winters and this January the winter is proving particularly harsh," said RS&nbsp;Taneja, the head of the medicine department at Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia hospital.

Overall, though, the National Centre for Disease Control said 13,447 cases of H1N1 virus were reported by December 9 of last year compared to 38,811 in 2017.

Shah is the second top member of Modi's inner circle to fall ill. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley left for the United States earlier this week for a medical check-up, officials said. They did not provide details of his condition.&nbsp;

The chief of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Amit Shah, will be discharged from hospital in a day or two after a bout of swine flu, a party spokesman said on Thursday.

The chief of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Amit Shah, will be discharged from hospital in a day or two after a bout of swine flu, a party spokesman said on Thursday. It is not clear how Shah contracted the H1N1 influenza. "Amit Shah ji is doing well. He will be discharged in a day or two. Thanks everyone for your good wishes!," Anil Baluni, spokesman of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party said in a tweet. Health officials said lower than normal temperatures this winter have led to a spike in cases of swine flu in northern India. "Cases of seasonal swine flu in India go up during winters and this January the winter is proving particularly harsh," said RS Taneja, the head of the medicine department at Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia hospital. Overall, though, the National Centre for Disease Control said 13,447 cases of H1N1 virus were reported by December 9 of last year compared to 38,811 in 2017. Shah is the second top member of Modi's inner circle to fall ill. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley left for the United States earlier this week for a medical check-up, officials said. They did not provide details of his condition.

BJP President Amit Shah will be discharged in a day or two

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday informed that party president Amit Shah is doing well and will soon be discharged from the All India Institutes of Medical Science (AIIMS) where he is currently undergoing treatment for swine flu.

BJP took to Twitter to share the news and thank people for their wishes for the president, and tweeted, "Update: BJP President Shri @AmitShah is doing well. Doctors, post check up this morning, have opined that he is recovering well and would soon be discharged. Thank you all for your kind wishes and several messages. We are overwhelmed by your affection."

Shah was diagnosed with swine flu on Wednesday and is being treated under the supervision of AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria.

Shah also took to Twitter to inform the countrymen about his ailment and wrote, "I have been affected by swine flu disease and the treatment for the same is going on. With the blessings of God and love and good wishes of all of you, I shall be healthy soon."

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday informed that party president Amit Shah is doing well and will soon be discharged from the All India Institutes of Medical Science (AIIMS) where he is currently undergoing treatment for swine flu.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday informed that party president Amit Shah is doing well and will soon be discharged from the All India Institutes of Medical Science (AIIMS) where he is currently undergoing treatment for swine flu. BJP took to Twitter to share the news and thank people for their wishes for the president, and tweeted, "Update: BJP President Shri @AmitShah is doing well. Doctors, post check up this morning, have opined that he is recovering well and would soon be discharged. Thank you all for your kind wishes and several messages. We are overwhelmed by your affection." Shah was diagnosed with swine flu on Wednesday and is being treated under the supervision of AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria. Shah also took to Twitter to inform the countrymen about his ailment and wrote, "I have been affected by swine flu disease and the treatment for the same is going on. With the blessings of God and love and good wishes of all of you, I shall be healthy soon."

Amit Shah to be discharged soon: BJP

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to give a go-ahead to BJP's Rath Yatra in West Bengal. The top court, however, said that the BJP state unit can conduct meetings and rallies.&nbsp;

The bench said the apprehension of the state government of possible law and order situation cannot be called "unfounded" and BJP will have to take all possible steps to address the apprehension in a reasonable manner.

The apex court added that if the BJP comes out with a revised plan of Yatra, it may be considered it later, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the BJP's West Bengal unit to submit a revised schedule of its proposed 'Rath Yatra' with the authorities and seek necessary approvals.

The bench also comprising Justices L N Rao and SK Kaul asked the West Bengal government to consider the revised schedule of the BJP for 'Rath Yatra' keeping in mind the fundamental right of speech and expression under the Constitution, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The BJP has now decided to cut short its 40-day programme to 20 and the fresh 'Yatras' would start from Baharampur in Murshidabad district, Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas district, Medinipur and the Lok Sabha constituency of Kolkata North, a lawyer associated with the matter said, adding that the decision was taken in view of the upcoming school examinations and the general elections.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-seeks-west-bengal-governments-response-on-bjp-plea-seeking-permission-for-rath-yatra-188949">West Bengal unit of the BJP has challenged</a> the December 21 order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court, which had set aside the order of a single-judge bench allowing the procession.

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SC refused to give a go ahead for the BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. The Apex Court, however, said that the BJP state unit can conduct meetings and rallies. SC said, if BJP comes out with a revised plan of fresh Yatra, that may be considered afresh later. <a href="https://t.co/TbvYiRQply">pic.twitter.com/TbvYiRQply</a>
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An apex court bench headed by Justice S K Kaul also asked the BJP state unit to submit a revised plan for its "Save Democracy Rally" for consideration by the state government.

The bench posted the matter for hearing on January 15.

The BJP's West Bengal unit has approached the apex court seeking permission to take out the rally, which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of general elections to be held this year. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In its plea, the BJP has said that their fundamental right to hold a peaceful yatra cannot be withheld, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The party had planned to launch the yatra from three districts of the state.

The rallies, according to the original schedule, were supposed to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah from Bengal's Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14, PTI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to give a go-ahead to BJP's Rath Yatra in West Bengal. The top court, however, said that the BJP state unit can conduct meetings and rallies.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to give a go-ahead to BJP's Rath Yatra in West Bengal. The top court, however, said that the BJP state unit can conduct meetings and rallies. The bench said the apprehension of the state government of possible law and order situation cannot be called "unfounded" and BJP will have to take all possible steps to address the apprehension in a reasonable manner. The apex court added that if the BJP comes out with a revised plan of Yatra, it may be considered it later, news agency ANI reported. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the BJP's West Bengal unit to submit a revised schedule of its proposed 'Rath Yatra' with the authorities and seek necessary approvals. The bench also comprising Justices L N Rao and SK Kaul asked the West Bengal government to consider the revised schedule of the BJP for 'Rath Yatra' keeping in mind the fundamental right of speech and expression under the Constitution, news agency PTI reported. The BJP has now decided to cut short its 40-day programme to 20 and the fresh 'Yatras' would start from Baharampur in Murshidabad district, Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas district, Medinipur and the Lok Sabha constituency of Kolkata North, a lawyer associated with the matter said, adding that the decision was taken in view of the upcoming school examinations and the general elections. The West Bengal unit of the BJP has challenged the December 21 order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court, which had set aside the order of a single-judge bench allowing the procession. SC refused to give a go ahead for the BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. The Apex Court, however, said that the BJP state unit can conduct meetings and rallies. SC said, if BJP comes out with a revised plan of fresh Yatra, that may be considered afresh later. pic.twitter.com/TbvYiRQply — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × An apex court bench headed by Justice S K Kaul also asked the BJP state unit to submit a revised plan for its "Save Democracy Rally" for consideration by the state government. The bench posted the matter for hearing on January 15. The BJP's West Bengal unit has approached the apex court seeking permission to take out the rally, which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of general elections to be held this year. In its plea, the BJP has said that their fundamental right to hold a peaceful yatra cannot be withheld, news agency PTI reported. The party had planned to launch the yatra from three districts of the state. The rallies, according to the original schedule, were supposed to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah from Bengal's Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14, PTI reported. (With inputs from PTI)

Supreme Court refuses to clear BJP's Rath Yatra for now, asks Bengal government to consider revised schedule

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party.

He also asked all party workers to ensure that the votes of their families and friends are cast by 10.30 AM on the polling day.

He mounted an attack on the Congress, saying the "cancer" of casteism, nepotism and appeasement policy was its contribution, which, he said, "weakened the democracy and halted development".

"In the elections in the three states (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh) our opponents won but we were not defeated. The results were not good but we have not lost our ground. The workers need not lose their hope," he said in his address at the BJP's national convention at Ramlila Ground here.

The BJP lost power to the Congress in the three Hindi heartland states in assembly polls held recently.

The meaning of "defeat" is reflected by the Congress which has vanished from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, he said.

"Lok Sabha elections are very important for us. If we manage a massive victory, the BJP will rule the country from Panchayat to Parliament for a long time," he said.

He asked his party workers to ensure that every voter is contacted in an intensive campaign for the elections.&nbsp;

Shah asked them to go back to their respective states with a pledge to ensure BJP's victory in the parliamentary elections and make Narendra Modi prime minister for a second term.

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party.

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party. He also asked all party workers to ensure that the votes of their families and friends are cast by 10.30 AM on the polling day. He mounted an attack on the Congress, saying the "cancer" of casteism, nepotism and appeasement policy was its contribution, which, he said, "weakened the democracy and halted development". "In the elections in the three states (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh) our opponents won but we were not defeated. The results were not good but we have not lost our ground. The workers need not lose their hope," he said in his address at the BJP's national convention at Ramlila Ground here. The BJP lost power to the Congress in the three Hindi heartland states in assembly polls held recently. The meaning of "defeat" is reflected by the Congress which has vanished from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, he said. "Lok Sabha elections are very important for us. If we manage a massive victory, the BJP will rule the country from Panchayat to Parliament for a long time," he said. He asked his party workers to ensure that every voter is contacted in an intensive campaign for the elections. Shah asked them to go back to their respective states with a pledge to ensure BJP's victory in the parliamentary elections and make Narendra Modi prime minister for a second term.

Don't lose hope by results in 3 states, Lok Sabha polls very important: Amit Shah tells BJP workers

In a veiled warning to the Shiv Sena, BJP president Amit Shah said Sunday that if an alliance happened, the party will ensure victory for its allies, but if it did not, the party will thrash its former allies in the coming Lok Sabha polls.

Shah's statement came immediately after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis set the BJP workers a target of winning 40 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Reacting to the statements, the Shiv Sena said it was ready to take on whoever challenges it.

Shah and Fadnavis addressed BJP workers from Latur, Osmanabad, Hingoli and Nanded districts in Latur city Sunday.

"Party workers should get rid of confusion about (prospects of) alliance (with the Shiv Sena). If the allies join us, we will ensure their win, or else will defeat them too ("patak denge"). Party workers should start preparations at every booth," Shah said.

He compared the coming elections to the third battle of Panipat, in which Maratha forces were defeated by the army of Afghan ruler Ahmed Shah Durrani (Abdali).

The BJP chief said after this battle, the country was "enslaved" for 200 years. "If we win this election, our ideology will continue to rule for next 50 years. We should put in extra efforts to win this election," Shah said.

"In 2014, the BJP won 73 seats (in Uttar Pradesh). This time even if SP and BSP join hands, we will win 74 seats," he said.

Echoing Fadnavis, Shah said, "We should aim to win at least 40 out of 48 seats (in Maharashtra)."

This is for the first time the BJP has taken an assertive stand in the matter of alliance with the Shiv Sena.

The Sena has been regularly hitting out at the BJP despite being part of the government in the state and the Centre. Its leaders have often said they would contest the next polls on their own.

Speaking before Shah, Fadnavis said, "The party president will decide what to do with the Shiv Sena and the proposed alliance. But the BJP should aim to win 40 out of 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state."

"The victory of 2019 will be bigger than 2014. Last time we won 122 seats in (state) Assembly and received 1.50 crore votes. We need two crore votes to attain power on our own. The number of people who have benefited from the state government's policies is more than that."

Shah had reportedly told party MPs from Maharashtra at a meeting in Delhi last Thursday that they should be ready to contest the coming elections without an alliance, though efforts to forge a pre-poll tie-up with the Sena were on.

The Sena and BJP had contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in alliance but split up at the time of Assembly elections. The Sena joined the state government later.

Late Sunday evening, the Shiv Sena hit back at the BJP, saying its plan to win 40 seats meant it would rely on manipulation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

"The Sena is ready to take on opposition. Those who attack us, we will surely defeat them," said an aide of Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray.

"The BJP's boast of winning 40 seats is evidence that it is going to form alliance with EVMs. The BJP has been unnerved by the results of assembly elections," he said.

"Amit Shah's arrogant and boastful statements have exposed that party....Shiv Sena talked about Hindutva and Ram temple but it seems our stand did not go down well with the BJP," the leader said.

"The BJP does not want anybody who talks of Hindutva," the Sena leader said.

In a veiled warning to the Shiv Sena, BJP president Amit Shah said Sunday that if an alliance happened, the party will ensure victory for its allies, but if it did not, the party will thrash its former allies in the coming Lok Sabha polls.

In a veiled warning to the Shiv Sena, BJP president Amit Shah said Sunday that if an alliance happened, the party will ensure victory for its allies, but if it did not, the party will thrash its former allies in the coming Lok Sabha polls. Shah's statement came immediately after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis set the BJP workers a target of winning 40 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Reacting to the statements, the Shiv Sena said it was ready to take on whoever challenges it. Shah and Fadnavis addressed BJP workers from Latur, Osmanabad, Hingoli and Nanded districts in Latur city Sunday. "Party workers should get rid of confusion about (prospects of) alliance (with the Shiv Sena). If the allies join us, we will ensure their win, or else will defeat them too ("patak denge"). Party workers should start preparations at every booth," Shah said. He compared the coming elections to the third battle of Panipat, in which Maratha forces were defeated by the army of Afghan ruler Ahmed Shah Durrani (Abdali). The BJP chief said after this battle, the country was "enslaved" for 200 years. "If we win this election, our ideology will continue to rule for next 50 years. We should put in extra efforts to win this election," Shah said. "In 2014, the BJP won 73 seats (in Uttar Pradesh). This time even if SP and BSP join hands, we will win 74 seats," he said. Echoing Fadnavis, Shah said, "We should aim to win at least 40 out of 48 seats (in Maharashtra)." This is for the first time the BJP has taken an assertive stand in the matter of alliance with the Shiv Sena. The Sena has been regularly hitting out at the BJP despite being part of the government in the state and the Centre. Its leaders have often said they would contest the next polls on their own. Speaking before Shah, Fadnavis said, "The party president will decide what to do with the Shiv Sena and the proposed alliance. But the BJP should aim to win 40 out of 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state." "The victory of 2019 will be bigger than 2014. Last time we won 122 seats in (state) Assembly and received 1.50 crore votes. We need two crore votes to attain power on our own. The number of people who have benefited from the state government's policies is more than that." Shah had reportedly told party MPs from Maharashtra at a meeting in Delhi last Thursday that they should be ready to contest the coming elections without an alliance, though efforts to forge a pre-poll tie-up with the Sena were on. The Sena and BJP had contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in alliance but split up at the time of Assembly elections. The Sena joined the state government later. Late Sunday evening, the Shiv Sena hit back at the BJP, saying its plan to win 40 seats meant it would rely on manipulation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). "The Sena is ready to take on opposition. Those who attack us, we will surely defeat them," said an aide of Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. "The BJP's boast of winning 40 seats is evidence that it is going to form alliance with EVMs. The BJP has been unnerved by the results of assembly elections," he said. "Amit Shah's arrogant and boastful statements have exposed that party....Shiv Sena talked about Hindutva and Ram temple but it seems our stand did not go down well with the BJP," the leader said. "The BJP does not want anybody who talks of Hindutva," the Sena leader said.

If there is no tie-up, BJP will defeat ex-allies: Amit Shah in Maharashtra 

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order".

He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility."&nbsp;

Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone."

He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with&nbsp;strongly."

A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday.

The demonstrators today blocked roads,&nbsp;vandalised vehicles and burned&nbsp;tyres in the morning.

BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala.

Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media.

"Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women,"&nbsp;Vijayan said.

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Kerala CM on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. <a href="https://t.co/W5CaVQsnu7">pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1080704292338757632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported.

On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, 'Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order'.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state. Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order". He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility." Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone." He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with strongly." A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday. The demonstrators today blocked roads, vandalised vehicles and burned tyres in the morning. BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala. Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media. "Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women," Vijayan said. Kerala CM on #SabarimalaTemple issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7 — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported. On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

We have fulfilled our responsibility, others are trying to make Sabarimala a clash zone: Kerala CM

"No there is no chance. I am happy where I am right now", said Minister for Road Transport and Highways<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mallyaji-is-one-time-defaulter-unfair-to-call-him-a-chor-nitin-gadkari-183892"> Nitin Gadkari</a> while responding to a question on a probability of him becoming the Prime Ministerial candidate face in the 2019 elections, replacing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/farmers-pm-narendra-modis-2019-challenge-185494">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

According to media reports, the head of a government organisation in Maharashtra has written to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), demanding Gadkari be allowed to lead the Bharatiya Janata Party if it wants to win the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-statements-have-been-taken-out-of-context-nitin-gadkari-over-remark-on-mallya-184055">My statements have been taken out of context: Nitin Gadkari over remark on Mallya</a>

In an exclusive interview to ANI Gadkari said, "No there is no chance. I am happy where I am right now. I have to complete Ganga work first, building of Express Highway Access Control in 13-14 countries and I also want to make roads for Chaar Dhams and other works. I am happy doing these works and want to complete it."

Meanwhile, talking about the development projects in the Northeast, the senior BJP leader, who was coming from Arunachal Pradesh after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for national highways projects worth Rs 9,533 crore in the state, accused the previous government of ignoring the northeast in terms of development.

He said, "A project of Rs 4000 crore for constructing 400 km road is underway. Arunachal is a large area but it has less population even international border is attached to it. Due to the lack of road, there is poverty and unemployment. But once the roads are constructed, it will bring jobs here."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-mahagathbandhan-an-illusion-bjp-will-win-in-2019-amit-shah-185264">Opposition '</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-mahagathbandhan-an-illusion-bjp-will-win-in-2019-amit-shah-185264">mahagathbandhan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-mahagathbandhan-an-illusion-bjp-will-win-in-2019-amit-shah-185264">' an illusion; BJP will win in 2019, says Amit Shah</a>

"The forest-based industry could come here if roads were made. I believe in Northeast the previous governments have not worked well. But when the Modi government came into power, we decided to give northeast the first priority," he added.

He further told ANI that the upcoming development projects in the northeast will completely change the image of the Northeastern region.

"Road, Railway and Aviation sectors have been improved in the northeast since last 4.5 years. The development work worth Rs 2.50 lakh crore is presently underway in the northeast. The upcoming development in the northeast will completely change the image of the region. Our dream is to make northeast a prosperous and enriched part of our country," he said.

The Union Minister further highlighted his Ministry's plan of developing the waterways.

He said, "We are building six bridges on Brahmaputra River. We are also focusing on developing the waterways like making five-star and seven-star cruise."

He also expressed his concern over the road safety in the country.

"We are making an express highway from Mumbai to Delhi at cost of Rs one lakh crore. I believe when it comes to the road sector, the image of our country in the last five years has changed. In coming days, our priority will be road safety," he added.

Yesterday, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several national highway projects at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Minister also inaugurated two bridges over the Lohit and Dibang River.

"No there is no chance. I am happy where I am right now", said Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari while responding to a question on a probability of him becoming the Prime Ministerial candidate face in the 2019 elections, replacing Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"No there is no chance. I am happy where I am right now", said Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari while responding to a question on a probability of him becoming the Prime Ministerial candidate face in the 2019 elections, replacing Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to media reports, the head of a government organisation in Maharashtra has written to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), demanding Gadkari be allowed to lead the Bharatiya Janata Party if it wants to win the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Also read: My statements have been taken out of context: Nitin Gadkari over remark on Mallya In an exclusive interview to ANI Gadkari said, "No there is no chance. I am happy where I am right now. I have to complete Ganga work first, building of Express Highway Access Control in 13-14 countries and I also want to make roads for Chaar Dhams and other works. I am happy doing these works and want to complete it." Meanwhile, talking about the development projects in the Northeast, the senior BJP leader, who was coming from Arunachal Pradesh after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for national highways projects worth Rs 9,533 crore in the state, accused the previous government of ignoring the northeast in terms of development. He said, "A project of Rs 4000 crore for constructing 400 km road is underway. Arunachal is a large area but it has less population even international border is attached to it. Due to the lack of road, there is poverty and unemployment. But once the roads are constructed, it will bring jobs here." Also read: Opposition 'mahagathbandhan' an illusion; BJP will win in 2019, says Amit Shah "The forest-based industry could come here if roads were made. I believe in Northeast the previous governments have not worked well. But when the Modi government came into power, we decided to give northeast the first priority," he added. He further told ANI that the upcoming development projects in the northeast will completely change the image of the Northeastern region. "Road, Railway and Aviation sectors have been improved in the northeast since last 4.5 years. The development work worth Rs 2.50 lakh crore is presently underway in the northeast. The upcoming development in the northeast will completely change the image of the region. Our dream is to make northeast a prosperous and enriched part of our country," he said. The Union Minister further highlighted his Ministry's plan of developing the waterways. He said, "We are building six bridges on Brahmaputra River. We are also focusing on developing the waterways like making five-star and seven-star cruise." He also expressed his concern over the road safety in the country. "We are making an express highway from Mumbai to Delhi at cost of Rs one lakh crore. I believe when it comes to the road sector, the image of our country in the last five years has changed. In coming days, our priority will be road safety," he added. Yesterday, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several national highway projects at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh. The Minister also inaugurated two bridges over the Lohit and Dibang River.

No interest in being 2019 Prime Minister face: Nitin Gadkari

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

"During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh.

The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers.

Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added.

The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said.

Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?"

The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal.

Upping his ante against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with regards to the controversial Rafale fighter jets deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that even though Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-made aircraft were used effectively by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop bombs during the 1999 Kargil War, the government did not find it competent enough to be part of the Rafale deal. "During the Kargil War, HAL aircraft dropped bombs on the Pakistan Army. HAL knows how to make aircraft. The talks were confirmed. HAL discussed with France`s Dassault to buy one aircraft for Rs 526 crore. After that, `Chowkidar` became the Prime Minister. Soon after that, Prime Minister Modi visited France along with Anil Ambani. What happens next is that the Rs 526 crore aircraft now gets sold for Rs 1,600 crore. HAL is sidelined and Anil Ambani is made the offset partner. Anil Ambani never made an aircraft. HAL has been making aircraft for the last 70 years," Rahul said while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. The IAF had used MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, Jaguar and Mirage-2000 aircraft during the Kargil War. The aircraft were assembled by HAL under license production from the manufacturers. Elaborating on the need for HAL to weigh in to manufacture aircraft, the Gandhi scion said: "The IAF came to UPA government and said that they want 126 fighter jets. The UPA government asked them to look around the world and buy the aircraft they find the best and buy them at the cheapest price. But we told them that the aircraft will be built in India as the youth want jobs and it will be made by HAL. Air Force people said that it`s totally correct."Rahul further said that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was unaware of all this. "He stood up and said, `I didn`t do this job. I don`t know what happened.` Prime Minister himself changed the contract. The French media asked them what has happened. How come Rs 526 crore became Rs 1,600 crore? Who is this Anil Ambani? How come he got this contract? Our press is a bit hesitant (in asking such questions)," he added. The Congress chief then went on to say that people of Madhya Pradesh have "made up their minds" to dethrone Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government. "And in few months 56-inch chowkidar`s government will also be removed. A woman told one of our workers that just like a tava gets bad in 10 years, similarly, Shivraj Singh Chouhan`s government has become like that tava. Now we have to pick up the tava and throw it out. Every Chief Minister in a BJP ruled state is involved in scams, where public money is stolen," he said. Citing the controversy involving Chouhan`s son Kartikey, he asked: "Shivraj Singh Chouhan immediately filed a defamation case against me when I mistakenly used his son`s name in Panama Papers. But why didn`t he file a defamation case when I took his name in the Vyapam scam, the dumper scandal, and e-tendering?" The assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh will be held for 230 seats on November 28, and the result will be declared on December 11.

HAL-made planes dropped bombs in Kargil, yet govt sidelined it: Rahul Gandhi

The Uttar Pradesh BJP will soon be appointing about 100 women as 'teen talaq pramukhs' across the state to ensure rehabilitation of the victims and their children, a party leader said Sunday.

Nazia Alam, secretary of UP Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) minority wing, who will be the overall in-charge, said triple talaq pramukhs will be appointed for each of the 93 'organisational districts' and six regional units of the saffron party in the state.

"Educated women who have sound knowledge of Shariat and law and who can bring a social change in the lives of the victims of triple talaq will be appointed as pramukhs," Alam told PTI.

"Each of the 93 organisational districts and six regional units will have a triple talaq pramukh and some of the victims are already working with us to eradicate this social evil," she added.

Alam said the candidates will likely be finalised after Diwali followed by a survey in December to ascertain the total number of triple talaq victims in the state.

"We will carry out a survey, by the end of December, to know the exact number of victims of triple talaq in every district. Our work is likely to begin after Deepawali," she said. 
She further said that efforts will also be made to assist the integration of talaq victims with Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) in a bid to make them self-dependent.

The PMKVY is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship with the objective to enable a large number of Indian youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will help them in securing a better livelihood.

"We will also seek information from the victims as to what do they actually need, be it education and health-related needs for their children or employment-related things for themselves," she said.&nbsp;

Nazia further said that the minority wing of the BJP will also launch awareness campaigns to dispel the wrong notions surrounding the holy Quran and Shariat.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh BJP will soon be appointing about 100 women as 'teen talaq pramukhs' across the state to ensure rehabilitation of the victims and their children, a party leader said Sunday.

The Uttar Pradesh BJP will soon be appointing about 100 women as 'teen talaq pramukhs' across the state to ensure rehabilitation of the victims and their children, a party leader said Sunday. Nazia Alam, secretary of UP Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) minority wing, who will be the overall in-charge, said triple talaq pramukhs will be appointed for each of the 93 'organisational districts' and six regional units of the saffron party in the state. "Educated women who have sound knowledge of Shariat and law and who can bring a social change in the lives of the victims of triple talaq will be appointed as pramukhs," Alam told PTI. "Each of the 93 organisational districts and six regional units will have a triple talaq pramukh and some of the victims are already working with us to eradicate this social evil," she added. Alam said the candidates will likely be finalised after Diwali followed by a survey in December to ascertain the total number of triple talaq victims in the state. "We will carry out a survey, by the end of December, to know the exact number of victims of triple talaq in every district. Our work is likely to begin after Deepawali," she said. She further said that efforts will also be made to assist the integration of talaq victims with Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) in a bid to make them self-dependent. The PMKVY is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship with the objective to enable a large number of Indian youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will help them in securing a better livelihood. "We will also seek information from the victims as to what do they actually need, be it education and health-related needs for their children or employment-related things for themselves," she said. Nazia further said that the minority wing of the BJP will also launch awareness campaigns to dispel the wrong notions surrounding the holy Quran and Shariat.

BJP to appoint 100 women as 'tripe talaq pramukhs' in UP

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

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

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

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

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement.

"The leadership of Narendra Modi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of Swachh Bharat," Gates tweeted.

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The leadership of <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of <a href="https://twitter.com/swachhbharat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@swachhbharat</a>. <a href="https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x">https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x</a>
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This is not the first time when Gates has praised Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government for the efforts made towards improving sanitation process in India.

Earlier, Gates who co-chairs the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, had congratulated the Indian government for the efforts made in reducing malnutrition and sanitation-related woes in India.

The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched in October 2014 by Prime Minister Modi. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, over eight crore toilets have been built across India and over five lakh villages have been made open defecation free.

Under the mission, the Prime Minister launched the `Swachhata Hi Seva` movement on September 15 with an aim to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi`s dream of a Clean India.

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement.

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement. "The leadership of Narendra Modi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of Swachh Bharat," Gates tweeted. The leadership of @narendramodi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of @swachhbharat. https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x — Bill Gates (@BillGates) October 9, 2018 × This is not the first time when Gates has praised Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government for the efforts made towards improving sanitation process in India. Earlier, Gates who co-chairs the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, had congratulated the Indian government for the efforts made in reducing malnutrition and sanitation-related woes in India. The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched in October 2014 by Prime Minister Modi. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, over eight crore toilets have been built across India and over five lakh villages have been made open defecation free. Under the mission, the Prime Minister launched the `Swachhata Hi Seva` movement on September 15 with an aim to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi`s dream of a Clean India.

Now is the time to build on Swachh Bharat's success: Bill Gates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been nominated for Noble Peace Prize 2019 by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tamil Nadu president Dr&nbsp;Tamilisai Soundarajan.

Soundarajan has nominated Prime Minister Modi for launching the world's largest healthcare scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana - ''Ayushman Bharat''&nbsp;and also appealed to people to join her in nominating the Prime Minister.

The BJP Tamil Nadu president's husband, Professor Dr&nbsp;P Soundarajan, Head of Department and Senior Consultant in Nephrology at a private university in the state, has also nominated the Prime Minister for the honour.

Soundarajan said in a release, "This path-breaking initiative of visionary Prime Minister Modi will transform the lives of millions of people especially the underprivileged and vulnerable."

She added that the leading cause of poverty in India is healthcare expenditure for tertiary and secondary care.

Soundarajan further urged the healthcare institutions and medical practitioners to fully utilize the scheme, which will eventually revolutionize the health care delivery system in India.

Soundarajan also appealed to all healthcare providers in India and abroad to join her in nominating Prime Minister Modi for Nobel Peace Prize 2019.

"The last date for nomination for Noble Peace Prize 2019 is January 31, 2019. The nomination processes start in September each year. University Professors and Members of Parliament among others can also nominate our Prime Minister Modi," release from the state BJP chief's office said.

On September 23, Prime Minister Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) -Ayushman Bharat, and had termed it a "game-changer initiative to serve the poor".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been nominated for Noble Peace Prize 2019 by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tamil Nadu president Dr Tamilisai Soundarajan. Soundarajan has nominated Prime Minister Modi for launching the world's largest healthcare scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana - ''Ayushman Bharat'' and also appealed to people to join her in nominating the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been nominated for Noble Peace Prize 2019 by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tamil Nadu president Dr Tamilisai Soundarajan. Soundarajan has nominated Prime Minister Modi for launching the world's largest healthcare scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana - ''Ayushman Bharat'' and also appealed to people to join her in nominating the Prime Minister. The BJP Tamil Nadu president's husband, Professor Dr P Soundarajan, Head of Department and Senior Consultant in Nephrology at a private university in the state, has also nominated the Prime Minister for the honour. Soundarajan said in a release, "This path-breaking initiative of visionary Prime Minister Modi will transform the lives of millions of people especially the underprivileged and vulnerable." She added that the leading cause of poverty in India is healthcare expenditure for tertiary and secondary care. Soundarajan further urged the healthcare institutions and medical practitioners to fully utilize the scheme, which will eventually revolutionize the health care delivery system in India. Soundarajan also appealed to all healthcare providers in India and abroad to join her in nominating Prime Minister Modi for Nobel Peace Prize 2019. "The last date for nomination for Noble Peace Prize 2019 is January 31, 2019. The nomination processes start in September each year. University Professors and Members of Parliament among others can also nominate our Prime Minister Modi," release from the state BJP chief's office said. On September 23, Prime Minister Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) -Ayushman Bharat, and had termed it a "game-changer initiative to serve the poor".

Tamil Nadu BJP chief nominates PM Modi for Noble Peace Prize

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday questioned former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, why he damaged the walls of the official bungalow allotted to him when he was in power.

Briefing media here, state health minister Siddharth Nath Singh said, "I would like to tell Akhilesh that you're a respected leader and former chief minister, but besides that, you're also well-educated. When you demolish the walls of the house where you yourself lived, what was hidden behind the wall that you had to break it down?"

He added that the Income Tax Department could ask Akhilesh to furnish proof of his income, even though the SP chief said that he did renovate the government bungalow under his own expenses.

Calling Akhilesh as "the guilty chief scolding the police officer", Singh further said, "He said he renovated bungalow with his own money. Income Tax Department should see if the calculations are fine, even better if he himself submits how did he use money and where did he get money from."

Further, he lambasted Akhilesh's repeated claims that the BJP was taking credit for the development projects initiated by the previous SP government in the state, saying they "only cut ribbons" and did not spend "single money".

Earlier in the day, Akhilesh denied charges of damaging the government bungalow he was staying in and accused the BJP-led state government of putting "false allegations" on him.

While addressing the media here, Akhilesh said the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government is unable to digest the Gorakhpur and Phulpur bypoll defeat and thus is getting antsy out of "frustration".

Yadav claimed he removed no furnishings from the government bungalow, where he was staying since demitting the CM's office last year.

"Wooden flooring along with many things in the bungalow are intact. One damaged corner of the house was photographed in a way to make it look like the house was left in a bad state. I gave laptops to children, but Yogi Adityanath government is insulting me over taps," he clarified.

Further slamming the BJP, Akhilesh said the government "didn't acknowledge the Metro work done by my government".

"My government built world-class infrastructure in the state," he added.

On June 2, Akhilesh vacated his official residence and shifted at the Ansal API Township on Sultanpur road in Lucknow.

According to reports, he has allegedly taken away imported tiles, ceiling, AC, garden lights and bathroom fittings among others from the bungalow.

However, SP leader Sunil Yadav refuted the allegation and said Adityanath was the one who had ordered the removal of various things from the property after Akhilesh vacated the property. 
Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Tuesday wrote to Adityanath over the issue of damages found at the government bungalow.

Terming it a serious matter, Naik noted that such buildings are maintained using taxpayers' money and hence appropriate action must be taken against those at fault.

Earlier this week, the state government ordered a probe into the damages done after the bungalow was vacated.

The apex court on May 7 passed an order to abolish a law that allowed former chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh to stay in government bungalows throughout their lives

Earlier in the day, Akhilesh denied charges of damaging the government bungalow he was staying in and accused the BJP-led state government of putting 'false allegations' on him

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday questioned former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, why he damaged the walls of the official bungalow allotted to him when he was in power. Briefing media here, state health minister Siddharth Nath Singh said, "I would like to tell Akhilesh that you're a respected leader and former chief minister, but besides that, you're also well-educated. When you demolish the walls of the house where you yourself lived, what was hidden behind the wall that you had to break it down?" He added that the Income Tax Department could ask Akhilesh to furnish proof of his income, even though the SP chief said that he did renovate the government bungalow under his own expenses. Calling Akhilesh as "the guilty chief scolding the police officer", Singh further said, "He said he renovated bungalow with his own money. Income Tax Department should see if the calculations are fine, even better if he himself submits how did he use money and where did he get money from." Further, he lambasted Akhilesh's repeated claims that the BJP was taking credit for the development projects initiated by the previous SP government in the state, saying they "only cut ribbons" and did not spend "single money". Earlier in the day, Akhilesh denied charges of damaging the government bungalow he was staying in and accused the BJP-led state government of putting "false allegations" on him. While addressing the media here, Akhilesh said the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government is unable to digest the Gorakhpur and Phulpur bypoll defeat and thus is getting antsy out of "frustration". Yadav claimed he removed no furnishings from the government bungalow, where he was staying since demitting the CM's office last year. "Wooden flooring along with many things in the bungalow are intact. One damaged corner of the house was photographed in a way to make it look like the house was left in a bad state. I gave laptops to children, but Yogi Adityanath government is insulting me over taps," he clarified. Further slamming the BJP, Akhilesh said the government "didn't acknowledge the Metro work done by my government". "My government built world-class infrastructure in the state," he added. On June 2, Akhilesh vacated his official residence and shifted at the Ansal API Township on Sultanpur road in Lucknow. According to reports, he has allegedly taken away imported tiles, ceiling, AC, garden lights and bathroom fittings among others from the bungalow. However, SP leader Sunil Yadav refuted the allegation and said Adityanath was the one who had ordered the removal of various things from the property after Akhilesh vacated the property. Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Tuesday wrote to Adityanath over the issue of damages found at the government bungalow. Terming it a serious matter, Naik noted that such buildings are maintained using taxpayers' money and hence appropriate action must be taken against those at fault. Earlier this week, the state government ordered a probe into the damages done after the bungalow was vacated. The apex court on May 7 passed an order to abolish a law that allowed former chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh to stay in government bungalows throughout their lives

Akhilesh-bungalow row: What was hidden behind the walls you broke, asks BJP

As part of his 'Sampark for Samarthan' (Contact for Support) campaign, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah is scheduled to meet Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence on Wednesday.

Launched in May this year, the Sampark for Samarthan initiative was devised to generate awareness about the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's achievements in the last four years.

In the recent past, differences have cropped up in the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra.

In this regard, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that although there was no plan to dissolve the alliance, mutual efforts were essential to sustain ties.

Minister of State for Home, Hansraj Ahir had also quashed the possibility of a breakup of the alliance, as the BJP and Shiv Sena were two separate parties, but followed the same ideology.

In the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Shah will reach out to 50 people personally with details of initiatives and achievements of the government, whereas each BJP worker is expected to contact at least 10 people.

There will also be a special session of 'Sampark for Samarthan' on the NaMo App.

On Monday, Shah met with Yoga guru Ramdev and sought his support for the party.

"Meeting Baba Ramdev means we are meeting millions of people (who are his followers). He has assured us full support for next year's elections," Shah said.

Ramdev, on his part, lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the achievements so far and said no Prime Minister had managed to garner respect from powerful world leaders to this extent.

In the recent past, differences have cropped up in the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra

As part of his 'Sampark for Samarthan' (Contact for Support) campaign, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah is scheduled to meet Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence on Wednesday. Launched in May this year, the Sampark for Samarthan initiative was devised to generate awareness about the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's achievements in the last four years. In the recent past, differences have cropped up in the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra. In this regard, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that although there was no plan to dissolve the alliance, mutual efforts were essential to sustain ties. Minister of State for Home, Hansraj Ahir had also quashed the possibility of a breakup of the alliance, as the BJP and Shiv Sena were two separate parties, but followed the same ideology. In the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Shah will reach out to 50 people personally with details of initiatives and achievements of the government, whereas each BJP worker is expected to contact at least 10 people. There will also be a special session of 'Sampark for Samarthan' on the NaMo App. On Monday, Shah met with Yoga guru Ramdev and sought his support for the party. "Meeting Baba Ramdev means we are meeting millions of people (who are his followers). He has assured us full support for next year's elections," Shah said. Ramdev, on his part, lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the achievements so far and said no Prime Minister had managed to garner respect from powerful world leaders to this extent.

Amit Shah to meet Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday

Union Minister Arun Jaitley today said aspirational India will reject the "anarchist" formation of "disparate political parties" which are promising to come together to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the next general elections.

He said the political agenda for the debate this year appropriately will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus an "anarchist combination" of such parties.

"A group of disparate political parties are promising to come together. Some of their leaders are temperamental, the others occasionally change ideological positions. With many of them, such as TMC, DMK, TDP, BSP and the JD(S), the BJP has had an opportunity to share power. They frequently change political positions," Jaitley wrote in a Facebook post.

Aspirational societies with vibrant democracies do not invite anarchy, the minister said, adding that a strong nation and the requirements of good governance abhor anarchy.

Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Prime Minister Modi has given 'scam-free' government and his fifth year will focus on consolidation of policies and programmes, he wrote.

Jaitley, who had a renal transplant earlier this month and has yesterday been shifted out of ICU, said the country's mood has transformed from despair to hope and aspirations in last four years.

"Good governance and good economics have been blended with good politics. The result of this has been that the BJP is more confident, its geographical base has become much bigger, its social base has expanded and its winnability has hugely increased," he said.

Attacking Congress, Jaitley said the party "is in desperation without the perks of office".

"From the dominant party of Indian politics, it is moving towards the 'fringe', its political positions are not of a mainstream party but one usually adopted by 'fringe' organisations. Fringe organisations can never hope to come in power," the minister's Facebook post noted.

"Its best hope lies in becoming a supporter of regional political parties. State level regional political parties have realised that the marginalised Congress can at best be either a junior partner or a marginal supporter," he said.

 
&nbsp;

Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley today said aspirational India will reject the "anarchist" formation of "disparate political parties" which are promising to come together to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the next general elections. He said the political agenda for the debate this year appropriately will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus an "anarchist combination" of such parties. "A group of disparate political parties are promising to come together. Some of their leaders are temperamental, the others occasionally change ideological positions. With many of them, such as TMC, DMK, TDP, BSP and the JD(S), the BJP has had an opportunity to share power. They frequently change political positions," Jaitley wrote in a Facebook post. Aspirational societies with vibrant democracies do not invite anarchy, the minister said, adding that a strong nation and the requirements of good governance abhor anarchy. Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Modi has given 'scam-free' government and his fifth year will focus on consolidation of policies and programmes, he wrote. Jaitley, who had a renal transplant earlier this month and has yesterday been shifted out of ICU, said the country's mood has transformed from despair to hope and aspirations in last four years. "Good governance and good economics have been blended with good politics. The result of this has been that the BJP is more confident, its geographical base has become much bigger, its social base has expanded and its winnability has hugely increased," he said. Attacking Congress, Jaitley said the party "is in desperation without the perks of office". "From the dominant party of Indian politics, it is moving towards the 'fringe', its political positions are not of a mainstream party but one usually adopted by 'fringe' organisations. Fringe organisations can never hope to come in power," the minister's Facebook post noted. "Its best hope lies in becoming a supporter of regional political parties. State level regional political parties have realised that the marginalised Congress can at best be either a junior partner or a marginal supporter," he said.

Political debate to focus on Modi versus 'anarchist combination': Jaitley

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Sunday hailed the turn of events in the Karnataka assembly, terming them a "win for democracy".

He also criticised the 15-day time given to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to prove majority on the floor of the house as "mockery of democracy."

Addressing reporters after meeting the women’s wing of his Rajini Makkal Mandram, the actor termed the subsequent developments in Karnataka, wherein BS Yeddyurappa resigned as CM without a floor test, as a “win for democracy”. BJP asking for some more time and Governor giving 15 days time was a mockery of democracy. I would like to thank Supreme Court for its order, which upheld the democracy," Rajinikanth said.&nbsp;

Further, on contesting elections in 2019, the Tamil superstar said the decision will be taken after the elections are announced.

"The decision for contesting elections in 2019 will be taken at the time when the elections are announced. The party is not yet launched, but we are ready for anything. Also, it is too early to talk about any kind of alliance," he added.

Yesterday, the Karnataka government led by BS&nbsp;Yeddyurappa resigned before going in for the floor test in the Vidhan Soudha.

The floor test was to be conducted on the instructions of the Vala after the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) alliance also claimed the right to form the government in the state on the basis of the 117 seats it had as compared to the 104 seats that the BJP had.

On Friday, while hearing a petition of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, the Supreme Court reduced the 15-day original time given by Governor Vala to the BJP to prove its majority in the house and asked the party to hold the trust vote on Saturday at 4 p.m.

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உணர்வுப்பூர்வமான சந்திப்பு .... A very productive discussion with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WomensWing?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WomensWing</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajiniMakkalMandram?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajiniMakkalMandram</a> today ?? <a href="https://t.co/ylYTDoAAxJ">pic.twitter.com/ylYTDoAAxJ</a>
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth/status/998096096810315776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On contesting elections in 2019, the Tamil superstar said the decision will be taken after the elections are announced.

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Sunday hailed the turn of events in the Karnataka assembly, terming them a "win for democracy". He also criticised the 15-day time given to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to prove majority on the floor of the house as "mockery of democracy." Addressing reporters after meeting the women’s wing of his Rajini Makkal Mandram, the actor termed the subsequent developments in Karnataka, wherein BS Yeddyurappa resigned as CM without a floor test, as a “win for democracy”. BJP asking for some more time and Governor giving 15 days time was a mockery of democracy. I would like to thank Supreme Court for its order, which upheld the democracy," Rajinikanth said. Further, on contesting elections in 2019, the Tamil superstar said the decision will be taken after the elections are announced. "The decision for contesting elections in 2019 will be taken at the time when the elections are announced. The party is not yet launched, but we are ready for anything. Also, it is too early to talk about any kind of alliance," he added. Yesterday, the Karnataka government led by BS Yeddyurappa resigned before going in for the floor test in the Vidhan Soudha. The floor test was to be conducted on the instructions of the Vala after the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) alliance also claimed the right to form the government in the state on the basis of the 117 seats it had as compared to the 104 seats that the BJP had. On Friday, while hearing a petition of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, the Supreme Court reduced the 15-day original time given by Governor Vala to the BJP to prove its majority in the house and asked the party to hold the trust vote on Saturday at 4 p.m. உணர்வுப்பூர்வமான சந்திப்பு .... A very productive discussion with the #WomensWing of #RajiniMakkalMandram today ?? pic.twitter.com/ylYTDoAAxJ — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 20, 2018 ×

Giving 15 days to BJP to prove majority was 'mockery of democracy': Rajnikanth on Karnataka imbroglio

Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) spokesman and former MLA Saheb Singh joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday, according to reports.

Several others from the RLD from western Uttar Pradesh also joined the BJP in presence of state BJP chief Mahendra Nath Pandey, the report added.

The move is seen as an attempt by the ruling BJP to strengthen the party's position ahead of Kairana Lok Sabha by-election of May 28.

The seat fell vacant after the death of incumbent BJP MP Hukum Singh. His daughter has been fielded by the BJP.

RLD`s lone legislator Mahendra Singh has already joined the BJP.

&nbsp

RLD`s lone legislator Mahendra Singh has already joined the BJP.

Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) spokesman and former MLA Saheb Singh joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday, according to reports. Several others from the RLD from western Uttar Pradesh also joined the BJP in presence of state BJP chief Mahendra Nath Pandey, the report added. The move is seen as an attempt by the ruling BJP to strengthen the party's position ahead of Kairana Lok Sabha by-election of May 28. The seat fell vacant after the death of incumbent BJP MP Hukum Singh. His daughter has been fielded by the BJP. RLD`s lone legislator Mahendra Singh has already joined the BJP.

RLD spokesman Saheb Singh joins BJP

Senior Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader KS Eshwarappa on Wednesday said that their party is in touch with some Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs as they hope to stitch together a majority to form the government in the state.

"Many JD (S) and Congress MLAs are angry with Congress and JD(S) going together to form a government, they will come with BJP. We have the support of some Congress and JD(S) MLAs," Eshwarappa told reporters here.

He also asserted that BJP will form the government in the state.

Talking to ANI, Eshwarappa said, "There is no doubt we will form govt, 100 percent we'll do that. Wait and watch. Results came out only yesterday. It has been only a day. See what can happen in Karnataka in a day."

Eshwarappa bagged the Shivamogga seat with a tremendous margin in the Karnataka Assembly elections.

He secured 1,04,027 votes, defeating Congress' K.B. Prasanna Kumar by a margin of 46,107.

Meanwhile, BJP's Basavaraj Bommai said that the party wasn't approaching any individuals as of now, but added that politics is the art of possibility.

"Political scenario will unfold in next 2-3 days. It depends on development in political parties. As of now, we aren't approaching any individuals but politics is an art of possibility," Bommai told reporters.

The BJP, which managed to gain a hold on 104 seats, has emerged as the single largest party but has failed to cross the half-way mark of 112 in the 224-member assembly.

On the other hand, Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S), with 78 and 38 seats respectively, are staking claim to form a government in the state.

On Tuesday, outgoing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah even said JD (S) leader HD Kumaraswamy, son of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, will be the next chief minister.

Further, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa said he is going to meet the state's governor to request him to allow his party to form the government.

All eyes are now set on Karnataka's Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.&nbsp;

As per the constitutional provision, the single-largest party is invited to form the government in the case of a fractured mandate.&nbsp;

KS Eshwarappa bagged the Shivamogga seat with a tremendous margin in the Karnataka Assembly elections

Senior Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader KS Eshwarappa on Wednesday said that their party is in touch with some Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs as they hope to stitch together a majority to form the government in the state. "Many JD (S) and Congress MLAs are angry with Congress and JD(S) going together to form a government, they will come with BJP. We have the support of some Congress and JD(S) MLAs," Eshwarappa told reporters here. He also asserted that BJP will form the government in the state. Talking to ANI, Eshwarappa said, "There is no doubt we will form govt, 100 percent we'll do that. Wait and watch. Results came out only yesterday. It has been only a day. See what can happen in Karnataka in a day." Eshwarappa bagged the Shivamogga seat with a tremendous margin in the Karnataka Assembly elections. He secured 1,04,027 votes, defeating Congress' K.B. Prasanna Kumar by a margin of 46,107. Meanwhile, BJP's Basavaraj Bommai said that the party wasn't approaching any individuals as of now, but added that politics is the art of possibility. "Political scenario will unfold in next 2-3 days. It depends on development in political parties. As of now, we aren't approaching any individuals but politics is an art of possibility," Bommai told reporters. The BJP, which managed to gain a hold on 104 seats, has emerged as the single largest party but has failed to cross the half-way mark of 112 in the 224-member assembly. On the other hand, Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S), with 78 and 38 seats respectively, are staking claim to form a government in the state. On Tuesday, outgoing Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah even said JD (S) leader HD Kumaraswamy, son of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, will be the next chief minister. Further, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief ministerial candidate BS Yeddyurappa said he is going to meet the state's governor to request him to allow his party to form the government. All eyes are now set on Karnataka's Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala. As per the constitutional provision, the single-largest party is invited to form the government in the case of a fractured mandate.

BJP's KS Eshwarappa: We have support of some Congress and JD(S) MLAs

Congress leader Amaregouda Linganagouda Patil Bayyapur revealed on Wednesday that he had received lucrative offers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to switch his allegiance for the latter.

However, despite offers of a seat in the State Ministry, Bayyapur said that his fidelity would continue to lie with the Congress.

"I got a call from the BJP leaders. They said come to us and we will give a ministry to you. We'll make you a minister. But, I'm going to stay here. HD Kumaraswamy is our Chief Minister," said Bayyapur.

Earlier in the day, the outgoing Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah had also claimed that the Janata Dal (Secular) leader, HD&nbsp;Kumaraswamy would be the next CM of the Congress supported JD(S) Government in the state.

Siddaramaiah has also quashed rumours that a section of the MLAs of his party were unhappy over him joining hands with the JD(S), terming them as 'baseless rumours'.

In the elections, the BJP claimed 104 seats, emerging as the single largest party, while the Congress, with 78 seats, was in the second position.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister HD&nbsp;Deve Gowda-led JD(S) party was in third in those terms with 37 seats.

Apart from this, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Karnataka Pragnyavantha Janatha Party both won one seat each.&nbsp;

Remaining one seat went to an Independent candidate.

Elections in Karnataka were held at 222 out of 224 seats, on May 12.&nbsp;

Elections in two assembly constituencies had been deferred.

A party or an alliance needs 112 seats to form the government in Karnataka.

As the results of the poll in the state have left the assembly in hung, the final decision will be taken by the Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.&nbsp;

"I got a call from the BJP leaders. They said come to us and we will give a ministry to you. We'll make you a minister. But, I'm going to stay here. H. D. Kumaraswamy is our Chief Minister," said Bayyapur

Congress leader Amaregouda Linganagouda Patil Bayyapur revealed on Wednesday that he had received lucrative offers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to switch his allegiance for the latter. However, despite offers of a seat in the State Ministry, Bayyapur said that his fidelity would continue to lie with the Congress. "I got a call from the BJP leaders. They said come to us and we will give a ministry to you. We'll make you a minister. But, I'm going to stay here. HD Kumaraswamy is our Chief Minister," said Bayyapur. Earlier in the day, the outgoing Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah had also claimed that the Janata Dal (Secular) leader, HD Kumaraswamy would be the next CM of the Congress supported JD(S) Government in the state. Siddaramaiah has also quashed rumours that a section of the MLAs of his party were unhappy over him joining hands with the JD(S), terming them as 'baseless rumours'. In the elections, the BJP claimed 104 seats, emerging as the single largest party, while the Congress, with 78 seats, was in the second position. Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda-led JD(S) party was in third in those terms with 37 seats. Apart from this, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Karnataka Pragnyavantha Janatha Party both won one seat each. Remaining one seat went to an Independent candidate. Elections in Karnataka were held at 222 out of 224 seats, on May 12. Elections in two assembly constituencies had been deferred. A party or an alliance needs 112 seats to form the government in Karnataka. As the results of the poll in the state have left the assembly in hung, the final decision will be taken by the Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.

Congress' Amaregouda Bayyapur: BJP leaders offered me ministry