Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday said that it would "wait and watch" amid the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra informing the government. Senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar spoke to reporters after the party's core group meeting on Monday to discuss the political situation.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday said that it would "wait and watch" amid the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra informing the government. Senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar spoke to reporters after the party's core group meeting on Monday to discuss the political situation. "The BJP core team meeting has concluded. The political situation in the state was discussed in the meeting. On its basis, BJP is taking the stand of `wait and watch`," said Mungantiwar in Mumbai on Monday. Meanwhile, senior leaders of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress will go into a huddle exploring the possibility of forming a non-BJP government in the state with the Shiv Sena. "NCP and Congress will have a meeting on November 12 to decide about Shiv Sena, many senior leaders from both the parties will be present in tomorrow`s meeting," said Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar on Monday. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Monday asked Pawar to indicate willingness and ability of NCP to form the government in Maharashtra. This after Shiv Sena, which is keen to have its chief minister in the state, was not granted additional time by the Governor to submit letters of support from the NCP and the Congress. The Governor, instead, called the NCP, which finished third in the assembly polls, and asked it to indicate its willingness to form the government in the state. The Shiv Sena insisted on rotational chief minister post, a demand which was rejected by BJP which said there was no such agreement between the two parties ahead of the polls. Shiv Sena emerged as the second-largest party in the polls and got 56 seats. Both the NCP and the Congress held meetings in the morning over the developments as the Shiv Sena expressed its desire to form a non-BJP government. The NCP made it clear that it will not decide until ally Congress spells out its stance. The NCP has 54 MLAs in the assembly while the Congress has 44. On the other hand, the Congress Working Committee discussed the developments in Maharashtra and decided to have a meeting with its leaders from Maharashtra before taking a decision. However, at the end of deliberations, the party issued a statement which talked of further consultations with the NCP and made no mention of the Shiv Sena. (With inputs from ANI)

BJP to adopt 'wait and watch' policy after withdrawing from race in Maharashtra 

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday addressed the `C40 Climate Change Summit` in Denmark via video conferencing on solutions to tackle air pollution.

"Addressed the Press at the C40 Summit in Copenhagen, with Mayors of Paris, LA, Copenhagen, Barcelona &amp; Portland over video. Delhi also signs C-40 Clean Air Cities Declaration (signed only by 38 cities of the 94 attendings) as its commitment to clean its air," he tweeted.

Addressing a press conference in Delhi, senior AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh said that the central government has insulted people of Delhi after it denied permission to Kejriwal to go to Denmark.&nbsp;

"Delhi BJP chief has said that it was a meeting of mayors that`s why Chief Minister`s trip was cancelled. Now what is the fault of Arvind Kejriwal of if MCD mayor who is among the corrupt corporations was not called for the meeting," he said.

"I want to say to Javadekar that why is he complaining if your mayors are not capable. Why permission was given to Urban Development minister of West Bengal? Is he a mayor?" the AAP leader asked.

The C40 Summit, which connects more than 90 of the world`s leading cities to take bold climate action and build a healthier and more sustainable future, started in Denmark on October 9 and will conclude on October 12.

The Ministry of External Affairs denied permission to an eight-member delegation led by Kejriwal to fly to Copenhagen to be part of the event, saying that clearance from "political angel" has been denied and the conference is meant for Mayors, not for Chief Ministers.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday addressed the `C40 Climate Change Summit` in Denmark via video conferencing on solutions to tackle air pollution. "Addressed the Press at the C40 Summit in Copenhagen, with Mayors of Paris, LA, Copenhagen, Barcelona & Portland over video.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday addressed the `C40 Climate Change Summit` in Denmark via video conferencing on solutions to tackle air pollution. "Addressed the Press at the C40 Summit in Copenhagen, with Mayors of Paris, LA, Copenhagen, Barcelona & Portland over video. Delhi also signs C-40 Clean Air Cities Declaration (signed only by 38 cities of the 94 attendings) as its commitment to clean its air," he tweeted. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, senior AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh said that the central government has insulted people of Delhi after it denied permission to Kejriwal to go to Denmark. "Delhi BJP chief has said that it was a meeting of mayors that`s why Chief Minister`s trip was cancelled. Now what is the fault of Arvind Kejriwal of if MCD mayor who is among the corrupt corporations was not called for the meeting," he said. "I want to say to Javadekar that why is he complaining if your mayors are not capable. Why permission was given to Urban Development minister of West Bengal? Is he a mayor?" the AAP leader asked. The C40 Summit, which connects more than 90 of the world`s leading cities to take bold climate action and build a healthier and more sustainable future, started in Denmark on October 9 and will conclude on October 12. The Ministry of External Affairs denied permission to an eight-member delegation led by Kejriwal to fly to Copenhagen to be part of the event, saying that clearance from "political angel" has been denied and the conference is meant for Mayors, not for Chief Ministers.

Kejriwal addresses C40 summit via video conferencing; AAP hits out at BJP over permission

BJP on Thursday hit out at the Congress after a delegation of the opposition party`s UK representatives met Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and discussed the "human rights situation in Kashmir".

Terming it as "appalling" the BJP said India will give a befitting reply to the Congress for these "shameful shenanigans."

Meanwhile, the Indian Overseas Congress hit back at the "malicious" statement by the BJP, which it said was "another attempt to distract people from their failures."

"Our meeting with @jeremycorbyn was held to condemn the Kashmir resolution passed by his Party &amp; to reiterate that J&amp;K is an internal matter &amp; outside intervention will not be accepted," the Indian Overseas Congress tweeted.

Corbyn put out a tweet about the very "productive meeting" he had with the Congress delegation and called for "de-escalation" and end of "cycle of violence" in the region.

"A very productive meeting with UK representatives from the Indian Congress Party where we discussed the human rights situation in Kashmir. There must be de-escalation and an end to the cycle of violence and fear which has plagued the region for so long," the British politician posted.

Soon after, the BJP hit back at the Congress for raking up the Kashmir issue in the meeting.

"Appalling! @INCIndia owes it to the people of India to explain what its leaders are telling foreign leaders about India. India will give a befitting reply to Congress for these shameful shenanigans!" the party said on its official Twitter handle.

Congress leader Anand Sharma denied the BJP`s allegations and said that any issue pertaining to J&amp;K are purely India`s internal affairs.

"We are shocked by this misrepresentation and any unauthorised statement that has been made on behalf of the Congress party. The delegation of Indian Overseas Congress that met has neither a mandate nor any authorisation to speak on any matter which pertains to policies or India`s domestic issues.

&nbsp;They are supposed to be only confined to the Indian diaspora," said Sharma.

The Congress spokesperson added that: "The INC`s position is firm, consistent and clear as articulated in our working committee resolution of August 6."

"Any issue pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir are purely India`s internal affairs. So what the Congress party has to say is communicated officially here and no other entity, individual or a body has any authority to do so. We disown any such claim in entirety. I am conveying this to the leadership of the Labour Party," he said.

On September 26, Britain`s opposition Labour Party had passed an emergency resolution on Kashmir at the party`s annual conference in Brighton which calls for the entry of international observers into the region.

The motion was a response to the decision by the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdraw the region`s special status under Article 370.

Even at that time, the BJP strongly condemned the move and termed it a blatant interference in India`s internal matter.

The UK government`s official stance on Kashmir is that it remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

Last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had quoted the Congress while launching an attack on New Delhi over the Kashmir issue. He had even mentioned the Congress party during his speech in the UN General Assembly in New York last month.

BJP on Thursday hit out at the Congress after a delegation of the opposition party`s UK representatives met Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and discussed the "human rights situation in Kashmir".

BJP on Thursday hit out at the Congress after a delegation of the opposition party`s UK representatives met Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and discussed the "human rights situation in Kashmir". Terming it as "appalling" the BJP said India will give a befitting reply to the Congress for these "shameful shenanigans." Meanwhile, the Indian Overseas Congress hit back at the "malicious" statement by the BJP, which it said was "another attempt to distract people from their failures." "Our meeting with @jeremycorbyn was held to condemn the Kashmir resolution passed by his Party & to reiterate that J&K is an internal matter & outside intervention will not be accepted," the Indian Overseas Congress tweeted. Corbyn put out a tweet about the very "productive meeting" he had with the Congress delegation and called for "de-escalation" and end of "cycle of violence" in the region. "A very productive meeting with UK representatives from the Indian Congress Party where we discussed the human rights situation in Kashmir. There must be de-escalation and an end to the cycle of violence and fear which has plagued the region for so long," the British politician posted. Soon after, the BJP hit back at the Congress for raking up the Kashmir issue in the meeting. "Appalling! @INCIndia owes it to the people of India to explain what its leaders are telling foreign leaders about India. India will give a befitting reply to Congress for these shameful shenanigans!" the party said on its official Twitter handle. Congress leader Anand Sharma denied the BJP`s allegations and said that any issue pertaining to J&K are purely India`s internal affairs. "We are shocked by this misrepresentation and any unauthorised statement that has been made on behalf of the Congress party. The delegation of Indian Overseas Congress that met has neither a mandate nor any authorisation to speak on any matter which pertains to policies or India`s domestic issues. They are supposed to be only confined to the Indian diaspora," said Sharma. The Congress spokesperson added that: "The INC`s position is firm, consistent and clear as articulated in our working committee resolution of August 6." "Any issue pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir are purely India`s internal affairs. So what the Congress party has to say is communicated officially here and no other entity, individual or a body has any authority to do so. We disown any such claim in entirety. I am conveying this to the leadership of the Labour Party," he said. On September 26, Britain`s opposition Labour Party had passed an emergency resolution on Kashmir at the party`s annual conference in Brighton which calls for the entry of international observers into the region. The motion was a response to the decision by the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdraw the region`s special status under Article 370. Even at that time, the BJP strongly condemned the move and termed it a blatant interference in India`s internal matter. The UK government`s official stance on Kashmir is that it remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. Last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had quoted the Congress while launching an attack on New Delhi over the Kashmir issue. He had even mentioned the Congress party during his speech in the UN General Assembly in New York last month.

Appaling', says BJP after overseas Cong delegation meets UK Labour Party leader on Kashmir

Clad in a bright yellow saree, recording a video of herself to share with her countess social media followers - this is how TikTok star Sonali Phogat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Adampur, set out to file nomination for the assembly polls.

Her celebrity status on the video app catapulted her into an election candidate for the ruling party. Phogat on Friday asserted that she will win, despite being fielded against Congress strongman Kuldeep Bishnoi - third time sitting legislator from the seat and son of three-time Haryana chief minister, late Bhajan Lal.

"My party, BJP, gives me the strength and the backing needed. I do not have to be dependent on anyone else. I have been connected with the party for the past 12 years and that is why I have been given the ticket from Adampur," she told reporters.

Enroute filing nominations, Phogat said that the support of the party leaders and her fans will ensure her win.

"Today I am going to file nomination papers for my candidature from the Adampur seat, our Lok Sabha MP Vijendra Choudhary, UP Minister Choudary Bhupinder Singh and district chief, along with the former candidate from the Adampur Vidhan Sabha seat, the voters from my region and my fans will come in large numbers to support me," Phogat said.

It remains to be seen whether the social media star will be able to reap benefits for the BJP in the Jat-dominated Adampur seat.

Elections for the 90 member Assembly seat of Haryana will be conducted on October 21, along with Maharashtra, and the results will be declared on October 24.

Clad in a bright yellow saree, recording a video of herself to share with her countess social media followers - this is how TikTok star Sonali Phogat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Adampur, set out to file nomination for the assembly polls.

Clad in a bright yellow saree, recording a video of herself to share with her countess social media followers - this is how TikTok star Sonali Phogat, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Adampur, set out to file nomination for the assembly polls. Her celebrity status on the video app catapulted her into an election candidate for the ruling party. Phogat on Friday asserted that she will win, despite being fielded against Congress strongman Kuldeep Bishnoi - third time sitting legislator from the seat and son of three-time Haryana chief minister, late Bhajan Lal. "My party, BJP, gives me the strength and the backing needed. I do not have to be dependent on anyone else. I have been connected with the party for the past 12 years and that is why I have been given the ticket from Adampur," she told reporters. Enroute filing nominations, Phogat said that the support of the party leaders and her fans will ensure her win. "Today I am going to file nomination papers for my candidature from the Adampur seat, our Lok Sabha MP Vijendra Choudhary, UP Minister Choudary Bhupinder Singh and district chief, along with the former candidate from the Adampur Vidhan Sabha seat, the voters from my region and my fans will come in large numbers to support me," Phogat said. It remains to be seen whether the social media star will be able to reap benefits for the BJP in the Jat-dominated Adampur seat. Elections for the 90 member Assembly seat of Haryana will be conducted on October 21, along with Maharashtra, and the results will be declared on October 24.

BJP fields TikTok star Sonali Phogat for upcoming Haryana polls

As the BJP kicked off `Sewa Saptah` on Saturday to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday which falls on September 17, party leaders hailed him as someone who has devoted his entire life to the serve the nation and that it was apt to celebrate his birthday in this manner.

The BJP MPs met patients at the AIIMS hospital and distributed fruits amongst them. 
Singer-turned-politician, Hans Raj Hans while talking about the `Sewa Saptah` said, "The world considers him (Prime Minister Modi) to be a great man (hain India ke, lekin puri duniyan me unko aise hi mana jaa raha hai jaise wo mahapurush hain). He devoted his entire life to serve the country. So, his birthday should be celebrated in this manner only."

BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi said that they were doing this to give a message that the political establishment is here to serve the country.

"We were doing it for a message that as a political establishment we are here to serve the nation and even birthdays will not be celebrated by sycophancy but through work. We are translating the Prime Minister`s message to every individual through our deeds," she said. Lekhi also said that we need to minimise the use of plastic to check pollution and single-use plastic should not be used at all.

Delhi BJP Chief Manoj Tiwari reiterated the message that his party was observing `Sewa Saptah` this week on the occasion of Prime Minister`s birthday. We have distributed fruits to patients and are promoting no use of plastic, he said.

BJP MP from West Delhi, Parvesh Verma said that party workers across the country will be going to hospitals and will undertake cleaning work to observe the `Sewa Saptah`. "Our national president has started this. We are expressing our gesture of service by distributing fruits to people...this will continue through the entire week. All our workers in the country will go to hospitals and will serve by undertaking cleaning work," he said.

Cricketer turned politician, Gautam Gambhir too said that there is nothing better than serving people.

Kicking off "Sewa Saptah" to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and met the patients admitted here and enquired about their health situation. He also distributed fruits to the patients.Amit Shah also swept the floor of the hospital while other leaders followed suit.

"The whole government machinery will throw its weight behind the `Sewa Saptah`. Zila Panchayat, gram panchayat, municipalities, municipal corporations, Taluka panchayat wherever the people have given us power, the crores of BJP workers will be observing it through plantation drive, cleanliness drive and by serving the poor and needy," said Shah.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated his whole life working for the poor and nation," he said.

Accompanying him were BJP working President JP Nadda, Lok Sabha MP Gautam Gambhir, Hans Raj Hans, Meenakshi Lekhi among others.

The BJP will be organising "Sewa Saptah" from September 14 to 20 to celebrate the birthday of the prime minister.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday is on September 17.

The campaign will be held across the country and different programmes related to cleanliness and social service will be organised by the party workers.&nbsp;

As the BJP kicked off `Sewa Saptah` on Saturday to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday which falls on September 17, party leaders hailed him as someone who has devoted his entire life to the serve the nation and that it was apt to celebrate his birthday in this manner.

As the BJP kicked off `Sewa Saptah` on Saturday to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday which falls on September 17, party leaders hailed him as someone who has devoted his entire life to the serve the nation and that it was apt to celebrate his birthday in this manner. The BJP MPs met patients at the AIIMS hospital and distributed fruits amongst them. Singer-turned-politician, Hans Raj Hans while talking about the `Sewa Saptah` said, "The world considers him (Prime Minister Modi) to be a great man (hain India ke, lekin puri duniyan me unko aise hi mana jaa raha hai jaise wo mahapurush hain). He devoted his entire life to serve the country. So, his birthday should be celebrated in this manner only." BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi said that they were doing this to give a message that the political establishment is here to serve the country. "We were doing it for a message that as a political establishment we are here to serve the nation and even birthdays will not be celebrated by sycophancy but through work. We are translating the Prime Minister`s message to every individual through our deeds," she said. Lekhi also said that we need to minimise the use of plastic to check pollution and single-use plastic should not be used at all. Delhi BJP Chief Manoj Tiwari reiterated the message that his party was observing `Sewa Saptah` this week on the occasion of Prime Minister`s birthday. We have distributed fruits to patients and are promoting no use of plastic, he said. BJP MP from West Delhi, Parvesh Verma said that party workers across the country will be going to hospitals and will undertake cleaning work to observe the `Sewa Saptah`. "Our national president has started this. We are expressing our gesture of service by distributing fruits to people...this will continue through the entire week. All our workers in the country will go to hospitals and will serve by undertaking cleaning work," he said. Cricketer turned politician, Gautam Gambhir too said that there is nothing better than serving people. Kicking off "Sewa Saptah" to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and met the patients admitted here and enquired about their health situation. He also distributed fruits to the patients.Amit Shah also swept the floor of the hospital while other leaders followed suit. "The whole government machinery will throw its weight behind the `Sewa Saptah`. Zila Panchayat, gram panchayat, municipalities, municipal corporations, Taluka panchayat wherever the people have given us power, the crores of BJP workers will be observing it through plantation drive, cleanliness drive and by serving the poor and needy," said Shah. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated his whole life working for the poor and nation," he said. Accompanying him were BJP working President JP Nadda, Lok Sabha MP Gautam Gambhir, Hans Raj Hans, Meenakshi Lekhi among others. The BJP will be organising "Sewa Saptah" from September 14 to 20 to celebrate the birthday of the prime minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s birthday is on September 17. The campaign will be held across the country and different programmes related to cleanliness and social service will be organised by the party workers.

He has devoted entire life to serve nation: BJP leaders hail PM Modi as party observes 'Sewa Saptah'

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra.

"We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011. Now, BJP is doing those alternative politics. Wherever you go, you will see that people got benefitted due to schemes started by the BJP," she told ANI.

Richa further said that "AAP has become 'Khaas' (special) party."

Kapil, who was by disqualified by Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel under the anti-defection law, also joined the BJP.

He formally joined the BJP in the presence of BJP MP and Delhi state unit president Manoj Tiwari and party MP Vijay Goel.

"Now, Delhi needs a government which can work with the Central government. I think that the national capital needs a government which can work under the guidance of PM Modi," Kapil told ANI.

On August 2, Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel disqualified rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kapil Mishra, who had campaigned for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Lok Sabha elections, under the anti-defection law on grounds of defection.

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra. "We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011.

In a big blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), party's women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joined the BJP along with disqualified MLA Kapil Mishra. "We had joined the AAP for alternative politics after the Anna movement in 2011. Now, BJP is doing those alternative politics. Wherever you go, you will see that people got benefitted due to schemes started by the BJP," she told ANI. Richa further said that "AAP has become 'Khaas' (special) party." Kapil, who was by disqualified by Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel under the anti-defection law, also joined the BJP. He formally joined the BJP in the presence of BJP MP and Delhi state unit president Manoj Tiwari and party MP Vijay Goel. "Now, Delhi needs a government which can work with the Central government. I think that the national capital needs a government which can work under the guidance of PM Modi," Kapil told ANI. On August 2, Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel disqualified rebel Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kapil Mishra, who had campaigned for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Lok Sabha elections, under the anti-defection law on grounds of defection.

Former Aam Aadmi Party's minister Kapil Mishra, women wing chief Richa Pandey Mishra joins BJP

Former external affairs minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-former-external-affairs-minister-passes-away-at-age-67-241220">Sushma Swaraj who passed away</a> on Tuesday night will be cremated with full state honours, BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda said.

Sushma Swaraj was rushed to All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) late on Tuesday evening after her health deteriorated.

According to ANI sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-glorious-chapter-in-indian-politics-comes-to-an-end-tweets-pm-modi-on-sushma-swarajs-demise-241233/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Sushmaji&nbsp;is no more with us, it is a sad incident for not only for the BJP but the whole country," Jagat Prakash Nadda said, adding, "she inspired us, her last tweet tells us how she was involved in serving the nation in an emotional way."

"Her mortal remains will be kept at her residence for people to pay last respects. Around 12 pm tomorrow, her mortal remains will be brought to the BJP headquarters. At 3 pm, she will be taken to Lodhi road crematorium, where her last rites will be performed with full state honours," the BJP working president informed.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari while expressing his condolences said the former external affairs minister played a key role in the party's expansion.

"Passing away of Sushmaji is a personal loss for me&nbsp;and the country. Since the inception of the party, she played a key role in its expansion. When I was the president of the BJP, she gave me guidance like an elder sister," Gadkari added.

Former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj who passed away on Tuesday night will be cremated with full state honours, BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda said.

Former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj who passed away on Tuesday night will be cremated with full state honours, BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda said. Sushma Swaraj was rushed to All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) late on Tuesday evening after her health deteriorated. According to ANI sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm. Watch Video: "Sushmaji is no more with us, it is a sad incident for not only for the BJP but the whole country," Jagat Prakash Nadda said, adding, "she inspired us, her last tweet tells us how she was involved in serving the nation in an emotional way." "Her mortal remains will be kept at her residence for people to pay last respects. Around 12 pm tomorrow, her mortal remains will be brought to the BJP headquarters. At 3 pm, she will be taken to Lodhi road crematorium, where her last rites will be performed with full state honours," the BJP working president informed. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari while expressing his condolences said the former external affairs minister played a key role in the party's expansion. "Passing away of Sushmaji is a personal loss for me and the country. Since the inception of the party, she played a key role in its expansion. When I was the president of the BJP, she gave me guidance like an elder sister," Gadkari added.

Sushma Swaraj to be cremated with full state honours on Wednesday afternoon: BJP

Karnataka BJP president B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday night expressed satisfaction with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-kumaraswamys-congress-jds-government-loses-floor-test-in-karnataka-assembly-237989">defeat of H D Kumaraswamy</a> led Congress- JD(S) government in the Assembly.

"It is the victory of democracy. People were fed up with the H D Kumaraswamy government. I want to assure the people of Karnataka, that a new era of development will start now onwards," Yeddyurappa said.

Earlier today, the confidence motion moved by Kumaraswamy got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition leading to its defeat.

This brought an end to the 12-day high tension political drama which had been going on in the state with the BJP on one side and the Congress-JD(S) on the other.

Yeddyurappa added that the BJP led government which is about to be formed in the state will focus on the farmers and ensure their happiness.

"Farmers were suffering due to drought and other factors. We assure the farmers, we will give them more importance to ensure they live happily and take appropriate decisions as early as possible," Yeddyurappa added.

The BJP supporters have started celebrating at the party's state office in Bengaluru after HD Kumaraswamy led Congress-JD(S) coalition government lost trust vote in the assembly.

Kumaraswamy has sought an appointment with Governor Vajubhai Vala to tender his resignation.

&nbsp;

Karnataka BJP president B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday night expressed satisfaction with the defeat of H D Kumaraswamy led Congress- JD(S) government in the Assembly.

Karnataka BJP president B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday night expressed satisfaction with the defeat of H D Kumaraswamy led Congress- JD(S) government in the Assembly. "It is the victory of democracy. People were fed up with the H D Kumaraswamy government. I want to assure the people of Karnataka, that a new era of development will start now onwards," Yeddyurappa said. Earlier today, the confidence motion moved by Kumaraswamy got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition leading to its defeat. This brought an end to the 12-day high tension political drama which had been going on in the state with the BJP on one side and the Congress-JD(S) on the other. Yeddyurappa added that the BJP led government which is about to be formed in the state will focus on the farmers and ensure their happiness. "Farmers were suffering due to drought and other factors. We assure the farmers, we will give them more importance to ensure they live happily and take appropriate decisions as early as possible," Yeddyurappa added. The BJP supporters have started celebrating at the party's state office in Bengaluru after HD Kumaraswamy led Congress-JD(S) coalition government lost trust vote in the assembly. Kumaraswamy has sought an appointment with Governor Vajubhai Vala to tender his resignation.

It is the victory of democracy: BS Yeddyurappa on winning trust vote in Karnataka Assembly

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

The information was given by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik in a written reply to Congress MP Mohd Ali Khan in the Upper House of Parliament.&nbsp;

Also, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is entrusted with the construction and improvement of 269.05 km of roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 1,514 crore.

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.

The Central government has approved 1,377 km of border roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 3,853 crore, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday. The information was given by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik in a written reply to Congress MP Mohd Ali Khan in the Upper House of Parliament. Also, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is entrusted with the construction and improvement of 269.05 km of roads along the Indo-Nepal border at an estimated cost of Rs 1,514 crore.

Central government approves 1,377 km of border roads along Indo-Nepal border

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-two-bjp-supporters-arrested-in-connection-with-trinamool-congress-leaders-murder-224708">Trinamool Congress</a> is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-conspiring-to-separate-bengal-from-india-bjp-in-lok-sabha-230301">Dilip Ghosh</a> on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata.

This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh.

"TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said.

While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat."

"If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus". He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata. This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh. "TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said. While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat." "If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

Dilip Ghosh calls Trinamool Congress rally 'Didi's Circus', FIR lodged

Three more FIRs have been registered against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-alleges-harassment-of-azam-khan-through-bogus-cases-forms-delegation-236554">Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan</a> in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh.

The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab.&nbsp;

The police said the complaints against him were verified and found to be genuine.

According to the complaints, the farmers` lands were illegally occupied through unscrupulous means with the help of a former Circle Officer.

The Uttar Pradesh government put the parliamentarian`s name on the government`s anti-land mafia portal earlier this week. "It means the cases will be directly monitored by the government and legal action will be taken," Rampur District Magistrate Aunjaneya Kumar had said.

A government has formed a three-member committee to investigate the case. Rampur SP earlier this week said that the police will make arrests in the case.

Alleging that Khan was unnecessarily being harassed, Samajwadi Party has formed a high-level delegation of its legislative party members to look into the matter on July 17.

Khan, a former state minister, has alleged that he was being harassed as he defeated BJP candidate in the Lok Sabha elections. "Since I won the election against BJP, I am being punished. All allegations are false. They can investigate if they want to. There are enemies all around me," he had said.

Three more FIRs have been registered against Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh. The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab.

Three more FIRs have been registered against Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan in connection with land encroachment cases in Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh. The total number of FIRs, as per the police, against Khan, now stands at 26 in cases relating to land grab. The police said the complaints against him were verified and found to be genuine. According to the complaints, the farmers` lands were illegally occupied through unscrupulous means with the help of a former Circle Officer. The Uttar Pradesh government put the parliamentarian`s name on the government`s anti-land mafia portal earlier this week. "It means the cases will be directly monitored by the government and legal action will be taken," Rampur District Magistrate Aunjaneya Kumar had said. A government has formed a three-member committee to investigate the case. Rampur SP earlier this week said that the police will make arrests in the case. Alleging that Khan was unnecessarily being harassed, Samajwadi Party has formed a high-level delegation of its legislative party members to look into the matter on July 17. Khan, a former state minister, has alleged that he was being harassed as he defeated BJP candidate in the Lok Sabha elections. "Since I won the election against BJP, I am being punished. All allegations are false. They can investigate if they want to. There are enemies all around me," he had said.

Uttar Pradesh: 3 more FIRs registered against Azam Khan for land grab

The BJP on Saturday said that the party is ready to form the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-led-govt-in-karnataka-in-trouble-as-11-ruling-party-lawmakers-resign-233558">government in Karnataka</a> after 11 MLAs resigned from ruling Congress-JD(S) coilation government.

Party leader and Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda told reporters in Bengaluru that MLAs thought it's high time to come out of that party as they felt that continuing as MLAs was not good in the larger interest of their constituency and the state.

When asked whether BJP will form the government, he said Governor is the supreme authority. ''As per the constitutional mandate if he (Governor) calls us, certainly we are ready to form the government. We are the single largest party, we have got 105 people with us,'' he added.

Gowda, however, denied that the BJP had any role in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-congress-in-charge-kc-venugopal-rushes-to-delhi-after-11-mlas-resign-233566">MLAs resignations</a>. ''No BJP leader or MLAs were behind them. They voluntarily went to the Speaker and submitted their resignation. So it shows there is no interference by the BJP at any point as far as resignations are concerned," he said.

Asked about the chief ministerial candidate, he said that BS Yeddyurappa has been declared as the chief ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

"He will be the Chief Minister if a new government is formed," added Gowda.

The BJP on Saturday said that the party is ready to form the government in Karnataka after 11 MLAs resigned from ruling Congress-JD(S) coilation government. Party leader and Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda told reporters in Bengaluru that MLAs thought it's high time to come out of that party as they felt that continuing as MLAs was not good in the larger interest of their constituency and the state.

The BJP on Saturday said that the party is ready to form the government in Karnataka after 11 MLAs resigned from ruling Congress-JD(S) coilation government. Party leader and Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda told reporters in Bengaluru that MLAs thought it's high time to come out of that party as they felt that continuing as MLAs was not good in the larger interest of their constituency and the state. When asked whether BJP will form the government, he said Governor is the supreme authority. ''As per the constitutional mandate if he (Governor) calls us, certainly we are ready to form the government. We are the single largest party, we have got 105 people with us,'' he added. Gowda, however, denied that the BJP had any role in MLAs resignations. ''No BJP leader or MLAs were behind them. They voluntarily went to the Speaker and submitted their resignation. So it shows there is no interference by the BJP at any point as far as resignations are concerned," he said. Asked about the chief ministerial candidate, he said that BS Yeddyurappa has been declared as the chief ministerial candidate. "He will be the Chief Minister if a new government is formed," added Gowda.

Ready to form government in Karnataka, says BJP

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year.

Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000.

"Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress.

"Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power.

"Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said.

The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister.

Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power.

In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government.

Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

"The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. 
 
He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months.

Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said.

"They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked.

To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress. The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year. Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000. "Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress. "Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power. "Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said. The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister. Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power. In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government. Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. "The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months. Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said. "They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked. To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.

Madhya Pradesh farmers got benefits of up to Rs 15,000, not Rs 2 lakh: BJP

India has just been witness to history as the largest ever seven-phase electoral exercise in human history concluded on May 19, with the results being declared on May 23. Some 600 million women and men cast their ballot out of an eligible, incredible 900 million! A very respectable 67 per cent, which is higher than that in many developed countries. The final outcome surprised everyone. The BJP ended up not only as of the single largest party in terms of vote-share but comfortably crossed the half-way mark of 272 to bag 303 seats. This was 21 seats more than their tally of 282 in the 2014 general elections, way beyond anyone’s imagination or expectation.

Belying pollsters and pandits, the BJP even scored in Uttar Pradesh, where it was expected to lose big, in face of the ‘Mahagathbandan’ between BSP and SP. It got 62, just nine less than its tally of 71 seats in 2019. It more than made up for this shortfall in its extraordinary performance in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 seats, just four short of the ruling TMC, which bagged 22. Nothing short of unprecedented, this saffron surge far-surpassed its previous performance in the state. The BJP had sent only two Lok Sabha members in 2014 and only one in 2009 from West Bengal.&nbsp;

In addition, the BJP performed impressively in Gujarat (26/26), Maharashtra (along with the Shiv Sena, 41/48), and Karnataka (26/28 seats). Its almost complete sweep of the Hindi heartland, including Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Chattisgarh, and Jharkhand, had already put it in a commanding position. Hardly any of the earlier polls and predictions had given BJP such a huge victory. They were proven wrong, but a couple of the exit polls were closer to the mark. Most of the latter, however, did predict a victory for BJP-NDA.

After the results came out the next, most awaited event, was the swearing in of the new government on May 30. It was accompanied by all the panoply and ceremony of power at the portals of the majestic Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The day after, on May 31, even as I write this column, the portfolios of the council of ministers have just been announced. Amit Shah, the long-serving and most successful party boss of the BJP, has been inducted as India’s new home minister. Now we truly have our own ‘Loh Purush’ or Iron Man in this very important ministry. We may look to big-ticket interventions of Modi 2.0 in Jammu and Kashmir, besides progress on the Ram Temple at Ayodhya. 
The biggest, boldest surprise was the induction of S Jaishankar, former foreign secretary, as the minister of external affairs. In addition, former defence minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, was promoted to finance. Both these appointments of political outsiders, who have never stood for an election, means a new US-style merit-based Cabinet formation, mixed with the old Indian practice of awarding berths to seniority, region, state, caste, language, community, and political importance.&nbsp; 
We have in place a new way of recognising and rewarding talent, in addition to running the government. Performance rather than patronage seems the deciding factor. ‘Motormouths’ or those who were too press-friendly, including Nitin Gadkari, were put in their place. ‘Giant-killer’ Smriti Irani, too, was not especially compensated for defeating Rahul Gandhi in Amethi. Prakash Javadekar, former MHRD Minister was sent to a ministry he’s best suited to, Information and Broadcasting, with an additional charge of Environment. The new MHRD Minister is writer-poet and former CM of Uttarakhand, Ramesh Pokhriyal.&nbsp;

I was fortunate to follow and comment on these elections closely from the comfortable perch of an armchair analyst on WION (World Is One News). The analysis was actually polite and informative, with carefully chosen panels of experts both domestic and international. No shouting, heckling, butting in, speaking out of turn. What a refreshing change from the pugilistic and uproarious din on other channels, where there is more sound than sense, more smoke than light.&nbsp;

One of my co-panellists on WION made a remark that best sums up this history-in-the-making that we have been privileged to participate in. Narendra Modi would like to be seen as the ‘great transformer’. Mao Zedong, the founder in 1949 of the Republic of China and undisputed leader of the single-party state till his death in 1976, was called ‘the great helmsman’. Modi, in contrast, will go down in history as the great transformer. Modi 2.0 has not only broken the Nehruvian consensus but given us a new conception of India. In his second term, Modi will drive his ministers to accomplish this vision, which includes not only uplifting the lives of ordinary Indians but making India a great power on the world stage.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-great-transformation-bjp-303-narendra-modi-20-2755901">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

India has just been witness to history as the largest ever seven-phase electoral exercise in human history concluded on May 19, with the results being declared on May 23.

India has just been witness to history as the largest ever seven-phase electoral exercise in human history concluded on May 19, with the results being declared on May 23. Some 600 million women and men cast their ballot out of an eligible, incredible 900 million! A very respectable 67 per cent, which is higher than that in many developed countries. The final outcome surprised everyone. The BJP ended up not only as of the single largest party in terms of vote-share but comfortably crossed the half-way mark of 272 to bag 303 seats. This was 21 seats more than their tally of 282 in the 2014 general elections, way beyond anyone’s imagination or expectation. Belying pollsters and pandits, the BJP even scored in Uttar Pradesh, where it was expected to lose big, in face of the ‘Mahagathbandan’ between BSP and SP. It got 62, just nine less than its tally of 71 seats in 2019. It more than made up for this shortfall in its extraordinary performance in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 seats, just four short of the ruling TMC, which bagged 22. Nothing short of unprecedented, this saffron surge far-surpassed its previous performance in the state. The BJP had sent only two Lok Sabha members in 2014 and only one in 2009 from West Bengal. In addition, the BJP performed impressively in Gujarat (26/26), Maharashtra (along with the Shiv Sena, 41/48), and Karnataka (26/28 seats). Its almost complete sweep of the Hindi heartland, including Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Chattisgarh, and Jharkhand, had already put it in a commanding position. Hardly any of the earlier polls and predictions had given BJP such a huge victory. They were proven wrong, but a couple of the exit polls were closer to the mark. Most of the latter, however, did predict a victory for BJP-NDA. After the results came out the next, most awaited event, was the swearing in of the new government on May 30. It was accompanied by all the panoply and ceremony of power at the portals of the majestic Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The day after, on May 31, even as I write this column, the portfolios of the council of ministers have just been announced. Amit Shah, the long-serving and most successful party boss of the BJP, has been inducted as India’s new home minister. Now we truly have our own ‘Loh Purush’ or Iron Man in this very important ministry. We may look to big-ticket interventions of Modi 2.0 in Jammu and Kashmir, besides progress on the Ram Temple at Ayodhya. The biggest, boldest surprise was the induction of S Jaishankar, former foreign secretary, as the minister of external affairs. In addition, former defence minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, was promoted to finance. Both these appointments of political outsiders, who have never stood for an election, means a new US-style merit-based Cabinet formation, mixed with the old Indian practice of awarding berths to seniority, region, state, caste, language, community, and political importance. We have in place a new way of recognising and rewarding talent, in addition to running the government. Performance rather than patronage seems the deciding factor. ‘Motormouths’ or those who were too press-friendly, including Nitin Gadkari, were put in their place. ‘Giant-killer’ Smriti Irani, too, was not especially compensated for defeating Rahul Gandhi in Amethi. Prakash Javadekar, former MHRD Minister was sent to a ministry he’s best suited to, Information and Broadcasting, with an additional charge of Environment. The new MHRD Minister is writer-poet and former CM of Uttarakhand, Ramesh Pokhriyal. I was fortunate to follow and comment on these elections closely from the comfortable perch of an armchair analyst on WION (World Is One News). The analysis was actually polite and informative, with carefully chosen panels of experts both domestic and international. No shouting, heckling, butting in, speaking out of turn. What a refreshing change from the pugilistic and uproarious din on other channels, where there is more sound than sense, more smoke than light. One of my co-panellists on WION made a remark that best sums up this history-in-the-making that we have been privileged to participate in. Narendra Modi would like to be seen as the ‘great transformer’. Mao Zedong, the founder in 1949 of the Republic of China and undisputed leader of the single-party state till his death in 1976, was called ‘the great helmsman’. Modi, in contrast, will go down in history as the great transformer. Modi 2.0 has not only broken the Nehruvian consensus but given us a new conception of India. In his second term, Modi will drive his ministers to accomplish this vision, which includes not only uplifting the lives of ordinary Indians but making India a great power on the world stage. (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.)

Narendra Modi will go down in history as a great transformer

The Special NIA court in Mumbai has directed all accused of Malegaon 2008 blast case to remain present before the court at least once a week.

The court on Friday&nbsp;expressed displeasure over the&nbsp;absence of Sadhvi Pragya and&nbsp;Lt Col Prasad Purohit from the courtroom.

Bharatiya Janata Party's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur is among the seven accused facing trial in the Malegaon blast case, wherein six people were killed and a dozen others were injured. The bomb that was placed on a motorcycle exploded in Maharashtra's Malegaon on September 29, 2008.

Next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for May 20.

Bharatiya Janata Party has been drawing flak from the opposition since they gave the ticket to Sadhvi Pragya for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Sadhvi&nbsp;was fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal constituency against Congress veteran leader Digvijay Singh.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Special NIA court in Mumbai has directed all accused of Malegaon 2008 blast case to remain present before the court at least once a week. The court on Friday expressed displeasure over the absence of Sadhvi Pragya and Lt Col Prasad Purohit from the courtroom.

The Special NIA court in Mumbai has directed all accused of Malegaon 2008 blast case to remain present before the court at least once a week. The court on Friday expressed displeasure over the absence of Sadhvi Pragya and Lt Col Prasad Purohit from the courtroom. Bharatiya Janata Party's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur is among the seven accused facing trial in the Malegaon blast case, wherein six people were killed and a dozen others were injured. The bomb that was placed on a motorcycle exploded in Maharashtra's Malegaon on September 29, 2008. Next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for May 20. Bharatiya Janata Party has been drawing flak from the opposition since they gave the ticket to Sadhvi Pragya for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Sadhvi was fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal constituency against Congress veteran leader Digvijay Singh. (With inputs from agencies)

NIA court expresses displeasure over absence of Sadhvi Pragya, Lt Col Purohit 

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday distanced himself from the controversial comments made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iew-row-over-sadhvi-pragya-thakurs-comments-219226">Pragya Thakur</a>, Ananth Kumar Hegde and Nalin Kateel where the&nbsp;three leaders glorified Nathuram Godse.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Shah said, "Statements of, Pragya Thakur and Nalin Kateel are their personal opinion, BJP has nothing to do with it. They have withdrawn their statements and apologised. BJP has taken their statements seriously and sent these statements to disciplinary committee".

Shah further said, "The disciplinary committee will seek explanation from all the three leaders and will submit the report to the party within 10 days".

BJP's Bhopal Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur had triggered a controversy on Thursday through her comments on Nathuram Godse.

Pragya had called Godse&nbsp;"true patriot". She, however, later tendered an apology for her comments.

Pragya had said, "If someone has been hurt then I apologise for it. What Gandhi ji did for this country cannot be forgotten. I respect him a lot. My statement was misinterpreted and twisted by the media".

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Union Minister Anant Kumar Hegde on Friday came out openly backing Nathuram Godse, notwithstanding BJP's condemnation of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur calling Mahatma Gandhi`s assassin Nathuram Godse a "true patriot".

However, with his remarks attracting attention, he later deleted the tweet. "My Twitter account has been breached twice in the past one week and certain tweets have been posted on my timeline which has been discarded and deleted. Regret the posts attributed to me," he said in a fresh tweet.

In the earlier tweet, Hegde, known to courting controversies, was quoted as saying he felt that these debates give "good scope for the condemned to be heard upon."Am glad that 7 decades later today`s generation debates in a changed perceptional environment and gives good scope for the condemned to be heard upon. #NathuramGodse would have finally felt happy with this debate," the tweet said.

(With inputs from agencies)

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday distanced himself from the controversial comments made by Pragya Thakur, Ananth Kumar Hegde and Nalin Kateel where the three leaders glorified Nathuram Godse.

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday distanced himself from the controversial comments made by Pragya Thakur, Ananth Kumar Hegde and Nalin Kateel where the three leaders glorified Nathuram Godse. Speaking to news agency ANI, Shah said, "Statements of, Pragya Thakur and Nalin Kateel are their personal opinion, BJP has nothing to do with it. They have withdrawn their statements and apologised. BJP has taken their statements seriously and sent these statements to disciplinary committee". Shah further said, "The disciplinary committee will seek explanation from all the three leaders and will submit the report to the party within 10 days". BJP's Bhopal Lok Sabha candidate Pragya Singh Thakur had triggered a controversy on Thursday through her comments on Nathuram Godse. Pragya had called Godse "true patriot". She, however, later tendered an apology for her comments. Pragya had said, "If someone has been hurt then I apologise for it. What Gandhi ji did for this country cannot be forgotten. I respect him a lot. My statement was misinterpreted and twisted by the media". × Union Minister Anant Kumar Hegde on Friday came out openly backing Nathuram Godse, notwithstanding BJP's condemnation of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur calling Mahatma Gandhi`s assassin Nathuram Godse a "true patriot". However, with his remarks attracting attention, he later deleted the tweet. "My Twitter account has been breached twice in the past one week and certain tweets have been posted on my timeline which has been discarded and deleted. Regret the posts attributed to me," he said in a fresh tweet. In the earlier tweet, Hegde, known to courting controversies, was quoted as saying he felt that these debates give "good scope for the condemned to be heard upon."Am glad that 7 decades later today`s generation debates in a changed perceptional environment and gives good scope for the condemned to be heard upon. #NathuramGodse would have finally felt happy with this debate," the tweet said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hegde, Pragya's statements on Godse are their personal opinion, says Amit Shah

BJP national president Amit Shah has rebutted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's charge that he is an "outsider" in West Bengal and said he has come to the state to campaign for his party.

Shah wondered if he is called an outsider for coming to West Bengal, "which is very much a part of India", then why not Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be labelled as an "outsider" when she visits New Delhi?

The BJP leader was addressing a meet of intellectuals in the city on Tuesday.

"I am president of a national party and I am here to campaign for my party. I am being called an outsider for coming to West Bengal. What kind of statement is this? If a person from West Bengal goes to Mumbai or Bengaluru, will he be called an outsider? When Mamata didi goes to Delhi will she be called an outsider?" Shah asked.

Shah's remarks came following Banerjee's repeated allegations about Shah being an "outsider" who comes to the state to "create division" among the people.

"If the BJP wins the assembly polls in West Bengal, a Bengali will be the chief minister. Neither I nor Kailash Vijayvargia will be the CM," Shah said.

Vijayvargiya, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, is the BJP's national general secretary, who is in charge of the saffron party in West Bengal.

Shah also criticized a section of the media for blaming BJP workers for Tuesday's violence during his roadshow in north Kolkata.

"A section of media is presenting it in such a way as if we started the clash. The news should be that TMC goons attacked the convoy. But a section of news organisations are trying to paint it in a different way," Shah said.

BJP and TMC supporters Tuesday fought pitched battles on the streets of Kolkata during a massive roadshow by Shah, who escaped unhurt but was forced to cut short the jamboree and had to be escorted to safety by police.&nbsp;

BJP national president Amit Shah has rebutted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's charge that he is an "outsider" in West Bengal and said he has come to the state to campaign for his party.

BJP national president Amit Shah has rebutted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's charge that he is an "outsider" in West Bengal and said he has come to the state to campaign for his party. Shah wondered if he is called an outsider for coming to West Bengal, "which is very much a part of India", then why not Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be labelled as an "outsider" when she visits New Delhi? The BJP leader was addressing a meet of intellectuals in the city on Tuesday. "I am president of a national party and I am here to campaign for my party. I am being called an outsider for coming to West Bengal. What kind of statement is this? If a person from West Bengal goes to Mumbai or Bengaluru, will he be called an outsider? When Mamata didi goes to Delhi will she be called an outsider?" Shah asked. Shah's remarks came following Banerjee's repeated allegations about Shah being an "outsider" who comes to the state to "create division" among the people. "If the BJP wins the assembly polls in West Bengal, a Bengali will be the chief minister. Neither I nor Kailash Vijayvargia will be the CM," Shah said. Vijayvargiya, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, is the BJP's national general secretary, who is in charge of the saffron party in West Bengal. Shah also criticized a section of the media for blaming BJP workers for Tuesday's violence during his roadshow in north Kolkata. "A section of media is presenting it in such a way as if we started the clash. The news should be that TMC goons attacked the convoy. But a section of news organisations are trying to paint it in a different way," Shah said. BJP and TMC supporters Tuesday fought pitched battles on the streets of Kolkata during a massive roadshow by Shah, who escaped unhurt but was forced to cut short the jamboree and had to be escorted to safety by police.

I am not an outsider; have come here to campaign for BJP: Amit Shah

Exuding confidence that BJP will win more seats than it did in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that thepossibility of a two-third majority cannot be ruled out.

"In comparison to 2004 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP will win with greater majority this time. The possibility of a two-third majority cannot be ruled out. The hopes and desires people had from the prime minister in the 2014 elections have now taken the shape of trust," he told media persons.

Lauding the Modi-led government for its capability on the economic front, he said, "Inflation did not become an issue during the last five years and did not come up during the election campaign as well. This shows the financial capabilities of our government."

Attacking the Mamata Banerjee government over the issue of violence in West Bengal on polling day, he said, "There is no place for political violence in a healthy democracy. It`s unfortunate that more and more incidents of violence are taking place in West Bengal. What can be more unfortunate that the chief minister is unable to stop violence in the state?"

Slamming the Congress party on Hindu terrorism comment, Singh said that such statements weaken BJP`s fight against terrorism.

"Terrorism is terrorism. It does not have a religion. Due to such statements, our fight against terrorism is weakened. Congress party did the similar thing in 2008 when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said that `kewal bharat he nahi pakistan bhi atankwad ka shikar hai` (not only India but Pakistan is also a victim of terrorism). Such repetitive statements weaken the whole system," said Singh.

Continuing his tirade against the opposition party, Singh said, "Congress president Rahul Gandhi always talks about the eradication of poverty but does not do anything about it."&nbsp;

Exuding confidence that BJP will win more seats than it did in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that thepossibility of a two-third majority cannot be ruled out.

Exuding confidence that BJP will win more seats than it did in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that thepossibility of a two-third majority cannot be ruled out. "In comparison to 2004 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP will win with greater majority this time. The possibility of a two-third majority cannot be ruled out. The hopes and desires people had from the prime minister in the 2014 elections have now taken the shape of trust," he told media persons. Lauding the Modi-led government for its capability on the economic front, he said, "Inflation did not become an issue during the last five years and did not come up during the election campaign as well. This shows the financial capabilities of our government." Attacking the Mamata Banerjee government over the issue of violence in West Bengal on polling day, he said, "There is no place for political violence in a healthy democracy. It`s unfortunate that more and more incidents of violence are taking place in West Bengal. What can be more unfortunate that the chief minister is unable to stop violence in the state?" Slamming the Congress party on Hindu terrorism comment, Singh said that such statements weaken BJP`s fight against terrorism. "Terrorism is terrorism. It does not have a religion. Due to such statements, our fight against terrorism is weakened. Congress party did the similar thing in 2008 when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said that `kewal bharat he nahi pakistan bhi atankwad ka shikar hai` (not only India but Pakistan is also a victim of terrorism). Such repetitive statements weaken the whole system," said Singh. Continuing his tirade against the opposition party, Singh said, "Congress president Rahul Gandhi always talks about the eradication of poverty but does not do anything about it."

BJP will win more seats than it got in 2014: Rajnath Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies.

Addressing a rally in Sikar, he suggested that Congress leaders were confusing video games with such strikes.

He said the party first ignored the strikes carried out under his government and then opposed them. Now it's me too, me too,he said using the English term.

He also addressed public meetings in Hindaun and Bikaner, accusing Congress at both places of not acting strongly against terrorism.

Only a mazboot' government can do so, he said.

He expressed the Centre's solidarity with people in cyclone-hit states and said Rs 1,000 crore has already been released for relief work.

Modi's remarks on retaliatory strikes against Pakistan-based terror groups come a day after the Congress claimed that six cross-border strikes were carried out during the UPA government's term as well.

"They initially mocked and rejected the surgical strike but people had faith in me and they stood by me," the prime minister said, slamming the opposition.

Modi said a Congress leader had claimed four months back that three surgical strikes were conducted during that party's term and now another leader is saying there were six.

"The number increased from three to six in four months. By the time the elections are over, this will increase to 600. What does it matter when the strike is on paper? The Congress only tells lies," he said.

He said the Congress leaders seem to play video games, and suggested that they treated surgical strikes in the same manner.

He accused the Congress leaders of calling the Army chief a `goonda' (thug) and the Indian Air Force chief a 'lier', in an apparent reference to alleged remarks by Sandeep Dikshit and Veerappa Moily in past years.

He said the Congress leaders do not trust the valour of the country's jawans and raise doubts on casualties inflicted on terrorists. 
"Do they intend to send 'chadars' to bury terrorists?" he asked, apparently referring to the oppsoition insistance on knowing the number of terrorist killed in the air strike in Pakistan after a terror attack in Kashmir.

In Hindaun, Modi said instead of celebrating the UN decision on designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, the Congress is questioning its timing.

"Should the UN ask the Congress, should it consult 'madam' or 'naamdar' before declaring him a global terrorist?" he said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

After the surgical strike and the (Balakot) air strike, the UN decision to declare Masood Azhar a global terrorist is the third international strike on terrorism," he said.

He accused the Congress of being upset about all developments that are good for India, whether it is the UN decision on Azhar or the awards conferred on him by the United Arab Emirates and Russia.

There is no comparison between the BJP and the Congress on tackling terrorism, he said, recalling the bomb blasts during the UPA government's term.

Only a majboot' (strong) government can take decisions like retaliatory strikes against Pakistan, or deal with issues like the Doklam crisis, he said referring to the 2017 standoff between Indian and Chinese troops.

In Bikaner, he referred to the long-delayed acquisition under his government of property which belonged to people who left for Pakistan during the 1947 Partition.

He also took a dig at Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her interaction with some snake charmers while campaigning in Rae Bareli on Thursday.

The fourth generation of the naamdar family is even now projecting India as a land of snake charmers, while it is mouse charmers now, he charged, referring to the development of the IT sector.

But he did not directly name Priyanka Gandhi.

"IPL matches were played outside the country on two occasions, in 2009 and 2014, because the government did not give permission, citing elections. But now, elections are also happening and so is the IPL," he said.

Modi accused the Congress of cheating people in the name of various schemes.

"In Rajasthan, people are given forms for Rs 100 for getting Rs 72,000. This is how they cheat," he charged.

Polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan will be held in the fifth phase of the election on May 6. Thirteen other seats in the state went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP swept the state, winning all 25 seats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday mocked the me too Congress claim that its government had also conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control and accused the party of telling lies. Addressing a rally in Sikar, he suggested that Congress leaders were confusing video games with such strikes. He said the party first ignored the strikes carried out under his government and then opposed them. Now it's me too, me too,he said using the English term. He also addressed public meetings in Hindaun and Bikaner, accusing Congress at both places of not acting strongly against terrorism. Only a mazboot' government can do so, he said. He expressed the Centre's solidarity with people in cyclone-hit states and said Rs 1,000 crore has already been released for relief work. Modi's remarks on retaliatory strikes against Pakistan-based terror groups come a day after the Congress claimed that six cross-border strikes were carried out during the UPA government's term as well. "They initially mocked and rejected the surgical strike but people had faith in me and they stood by me," the prime minister said, slamming the opposition. Modi said a Congress leader had claimed four months back that three surgical strikes were conducted during that party's term and now another leader is saying there were six. "The number increased from three to six in four months. By the time the elections are over, this will increase to 600. What does it matter when the strike is on paper? The Congress only tells lies," he said. He said the Congress leaders seem to play video games, and suggested that they treated surgical strikes in the same manner. He accused the Congress leaders of calling the Army chief a `goonda' (thug) and the Indian Air Force chief a 'lier', in an apparent reference to alleged remarks by Sandeep Dikshit and Veerappa Moily in past years. He said the Congress leaders do not trust the valour of the country's jawans and raise doubts on casualties inflicted on terrorists. "Do they intend to send 'chadars' to bury terrorists?" he asked, apparently referring to the oppsoition insistance on knowing the number of terrorist killed in the air strike in Pakistan after a terror attack in Kashmir. In Hindaun, Modi said instead of celebrating the UN decision on designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist, the Congress is questioning its timing. "Should the UN ask the Congress, should it consult 'madam' or 'naamdar' before declaring him a global terrorist?" he said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. After the surgical strike and the (Balakot) air strike, the UN decision to declare Masood Azhar a global terrorist is the third international strike on terrorism," he said. He accused the Congress of being upset about all developments that are good for India, whether it is the UN decision on Azhar or the awards conferred on him by the United Arab Emirates and Russia. There is no comparison between the BJP and the Congress on tackling terrorism, he said, recalling the bomb blasts during the UPA government's term. Only a majboot' (strong) government can take decisions like retaliatory strikes against Pakistan, or deal with issues like the Doklam crisis, he said referring to the 2017 standoff between Indian and Chinese troops. In Bikaner, he referred to the long-delayed acquisition under his government of property which belonged to people who left for Pakistan during the 1947 Partition. He also took a dig at Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her interaction with some snake charmers while campaigning in Rae Bareli on Thursday. The fourth generation of the naamdar family is even now projecting India as a land of snake charmers, while it is mouse charmers now, he charged, referring to the development of the IT sector. But he did not directly name Priyanka Gandhi. "IPL matches were played outside the country on two occasions, in 2009 and 2014, because the government did not give permission, citing elections. But now, elections are also happening and so is the IPL," he said. Modi accused the Congress of cheating people in the name of various schemes. "In Rajasthan, people are given forms for Rs 100 for getting Rs 72,000. This is how they cheat," he charged. Polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan will be held in the fifth phase of the election on May 6. Thirteen other seats in the state went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP swept the state, winning all 25 seats.

Congress surgical strikes only on paper, party telling lies: PM Modi

Fielding "undertrial terror accused" <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-bars-pragya-thakur-from-campaigning-for-72-hours-for-karkare-babri-remarks-215135&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjijOub-PzhAhXSX3wKHSdxALcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qPtk1jcPcbYyiKJGMyuum">Pragya Thakur as a candidate for the Lok Sabha</a> polls is BJP's way of consolidating the Hindutva vote bank, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has charged.

He claimed the BJP's fear of being unable to retain 50 per cent of its seats has led it to rouse communal passions to get votes.

In an article in the forthcoming issue of party mouthpiece People's Democracy, Yechury charged that the BJP and Narendra Modi were preoccupied with disrupting the unity of the country and its solidarity through their venomous campaign of communal polarization.

He said the first three phases of the 17th general elections saw the electorate voting in 302 seats out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling BJP has 113 sitting MPs from these constituencies.

In the next four phases ending on May 19, the electorate will vote for the remaining 241 seats. Of these, the BJP currently holds 161 sitting MPs. That is two-thirds of these seats. It is clear that if the BJP is unable to retain these seats, its desire to form the next government simply falls through. This is because, in the first three phases, it is universally admitted that the BJP will not be able to retain at least 50 per cent of its sitting seats.

"It is precisely this realisation that has prompted the BJP leadership to consciously adopt an aggressive campaign led by Narendra Modi to rouse unscrupulous communal passions as the only means left to garner votes," he said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at the Election Commission, Yechury said while the ruling party was resorting to the "worst form of vote bank politics consolidating the Hindu communal vote bank" the poll body was yet to take any action against Modi for the "unbridled" communal passions that he is rousing.&nbsp;

"This is ominous for the health of Indian democracy. As an expression of its efforts to consolidate the Hindutva communal vote bank, the BJP has fielded Pragya Singh Thakur, an under-trial terror accused, currently out on bail on medical reasons, as its candidate from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

Endorsing this choice, Narendra Modi hailed Pragya Singh Thakur as the 'symbol of our civilisational heritage'," he said.&nbsp;

Thakur is BJP's candidate from Bhopal where she will contest against Congress' Digvijaya Singh.&nbsp;

Fielding "undertrial terror accused" Pragya Thakur as a candidate for the Lok Sabha polls is BJP's way of consolidating the Hindutva vote bank, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has charged.

Fielding "undertrial terror accused" Pragya Thakur as a candidate for the Lok Sabha polls is BJP's way of consolidating the Hindutva vote bank, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has charged. He claimed the BJP's fear of being unable to retain 50 per cent of its seats has led it to rouse communal passions to get votes. In an article in the forthcoming issue of party mouthpiece People's Democracy, Yechury charged that the BJP and Narendra Modi were preoccupied with disrupting the unity of the country and its solidarity through their venomous campaign of communal polarization. He said the first three phases of the 17th general elections saw the electorate voting in 302 seats out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling BJP has 113 sitting MPs from these constituencies. In the next four phases ending on May 19, the electorate will vote for the remaining 241 seats. Of these, the BJP currently holds 161 sitting MPs. That is two-thirds of these seats. It is clear that if the BJP is unable to retain these seats, its desire to form the next government simply falls through. This is because, in the first three phases, it is universally admitted that the BJP will not be able to retain at least 50 per cent of its sitting seats. "It is precisely this realisation that has prompted the BJP leadership to consciously adopt an aggressive campaign led by Narendra Modi to rouse unscrupulous communal passions as the only means left to garner votes," he said. Taking a dig at the Election Commission, Yechury said while the ruling party was resorting to the "worst form of vote bank politics consolidating the Hindu communal vote bank" the poll body was yet to take any action against Modi for the "unbridled" communal passions that he is rousing. "This is ominous for the health of Indian democracy. As an expression of its efforts to consolidate the Hindutva communal vote bank, the BJP has fielded Pragya Singh Thakur, an under-trial terror accused, currently out on bail on medical reasons, as its candidate from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Endorsing this choice, Narendra Modi hailed Pragya Singh Thakur as the 'symbol of our civilisational heritage'," he said. Thakur is BJP's candidate from Bhopal where she will contest against Congress' Digvijaya Singh.

Fielding Pragya Thakur BJP's way of consolidating Hindutva votebank: Yechury

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-smriti-irani-visits-amethi-more-than-rahul-gandhi-says-yogi-adityanath-214907&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfjtzOvfzhAhXeknAKHXPzAEIQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1uNmGqubfdtnamPXMxeCEL"> Union Minister Smriti Irani</a>, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab.

"The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose. I am sure of my win. This will be a victory for the people of Amethi," Union Minister Irani told Smita Prakash, ANI in an exclusive interview.

"I am a normal party worker, even though I have been working for the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We gave a chase to the Congress president that he had to run even after the SP and the BSP pledged support on the seat," she said.

"It was the first time that party workers of a political outfit had to ask their chief to look out for another seat, as they felt Amethi was not a secure seat anymore. That tells you how good is the atmosphere for the BJP. This is not a fight against the BJP and the Congress. It is a genuine fight between the people and a 'lapata saansad(Sansad)' (missing parliamentarian). He was absent for five years and even during the campaign. He also did not speak about Amethi in the Parliament," she added.

Irani's statement comes close on the heels of Congress general secretary east UP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's statement on Wednesday in Raebareli where she had said that her party had fielded some candidates in UP with an aim to cut into the BJP's vote share.

"Congress will win on the seats where our candidates are strong. Where our candidates are slightly lightweight, they will cut into the BJP`s vote share," she had told media persons.

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav has also dismissed Priyanka`s statement as an "excuse" since the "people are not with them."&nbsp;

"I cannot believe in these types of statements. I do not believe that the Congress has fielded weak candidates anywhere. No party does it. People are not with them. That is why they are making excuses," Yadav told ANI in an exclusive interview.

In Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab, SP is contesting 37 seats, BSP 38, and their ally - RLD - three seats. They have not fielded candidates from Amethi and Raebareli from where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi are seeking their re-election.

So far 39 Lok Sabha seats have gone to polls in the state, while remaining 41 will go to polls during the remaining three phases of the polling, the last phase of voting on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says Union Minister Smriti Irani, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab.

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says Union Minister Smriti Irani, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab. "The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose. I am sure of my win. This will be a victory for the people of Amethi," Union Minister Irani told Smita Prakash, ANI in an exclusive interview. "I am a normal party worker, even though I have been working for the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We gave a chase to the Congress president that he had to run even after the SP and the BSP pledged support on the seat," she said. "It was the first time that party workers of a political outfit had to ask their chief to look out for another seat, as they felt Amethi was not a secure seat anymore. That tells you how good is the atmosphere for the BJP. This is not a fight against the BJP and the Congress. It is a genuine fight between the people and a 'lapata saansad(Sansad)' (missing parliamentarian). He was absent for five years and even during the campaign. He also did not speak about Amethi in the Parliament," she added. Irani's statement comes close on the heels of Congress general secretary east UP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's statement on Wednesday in Raebareli where she had said that her party had fielded some candidates in UP with an aim to cut into the BJP's vote share. "Congress will win on the seats where our candidates are strong. Where our candidates are slightly lightweight, they will cut into the BJP`s vote share," she had told media persons. Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav has also dismissed Priyanka`s statement as an "excuse" since the "people are not with them." "I cannot believe in these types of statements. I do not believe that the Congress has fielded weak candidates anywhere. No party does it. People are not with them. That is why they are making excuses," Yadav told ANI in an exclusive interview. In Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab, SP is contesting 37 seats, BSP 38, and their ally - RLD - three seats. They have not fielded candidates from Amethi and Raebareli from where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi are seeking their re-election. So far 39 Lok Sabha seats have gone to polls in the state, while remaining 41 will go to polls during the remaining three phases of the polling, the last phase of voting on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress is fighting a battle to lose: Smriti Irani

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist.

While hoardings of the mainstream parties are splashed across the city, about 45 lesser-known parties such as Anjaan Aadmi Party, Aapki Apni Party, Bhartiya Insan Party and Ambedkar National Congress are also in the list of parties vying for Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, raising issues as varied as Dalit empowerment and vegetarianism.

The similarities in some of the names are inescapable, and perhaps not just a coincidence.&nbsp;

But there is also the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch, which is focused on making sure that justice is for all, and has fielded three candidates.&nbsp;

These parties are aware they might not give the bigger political outfits any competition but their representatives said their mission is to ignite a spark and inform people there are other alternatives too.&nbsp;

Dilip Kumar, who runs a laptop repair centre in Nehru Place and is the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch candidate from South Delhi, said everyone should be assured of justice and no one should be above the law.&nbsp;

"The rape cases against (self-styled godmen) Asaram Bapu and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan were investigated thoroughly and they were put behind bars but there is no discussion about the sexual harassment case against the chief justice of India. Law should treat everyone equally," he said.&nbsp;

Kumar said he will also address local issues. The government, he added, has built toilets but there is no water.&nbsp;

"What is the point of building toilets when there is no water?" he asked.&nbsp; 
The Sanatan Sanskriti Manch is also contesting the New Delhi and Chandni Chowk seats.&nbsp;

Also from South Delhi is Navanit of the National Youth Party who believes everyone has the right to contest in a democratic set-up.&nbsp;

"Look at Arvind Kejriwal. He came from nowhere and brought the Congress down in Delhi. Everyone has a right to fight the elections in a democratic set-up and in today's time everyone wants their child to become doctor, an engineer but becoming a politician is a no-no," the independent journalist said.&nbsp;

Kumar claimed he was the one who investigated the Rafale fighter jet deal for the Congress and said the party has 3,000 workers and will be doing door-to-door campaigning.&nbsp;

The party is also contesting from the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

D Durga Prasad of the Challengers Party dreams big. He aspires to first become the chief minister of Delhi and then the prime minister and said he is contesting from two seats - Northeast Delhi and East Delhi.&nbsp;

Prasad, who contested the by-election from Amritsar in 2017, said he chose the Northeast Delhi as it has BJP's "prospective CM candidate Manoj Tiwari" and three-time former chief minister Sheila Dikshit of the Congress in the fray.&nbsp;

He stays in East Delhi and that is the reason he is contesting from the seat against BJP's Gautam Gambhir, Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely and AAP's Atishi.&nbsp;

"We want a complete transformation of Delhi and want to make it a full-fledged city, the national capital, metropolitan city and state which will control four states -- Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Cities which form the NCR (National Capital Region) should be merged into Delhi," Prasad said.&nbsp;

Then there is the Pyramid Party Of India, which is based out of Andhra Pradesh and will be making its electoral debut in Delhi by contesting on five seats - East Delhi, West Delhi, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi and South Delhi.&nbsp;

The party recently held a silent rally at Jantar Mantar to promote the concepts of meditation and vegetarianism.&nbsp;

"We have four goals -- telling people about the power of meditation, vegetarianism and enlightening people about self-knowledge and spiritual knowledge," the party's West Delhi candidate Kulwinder Singh Mehta said.&nbsp;

"We wanted to launch the party in north India and it was felt the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi would be the right platform," Mehta added.&nbsp;

Quizzed about his poll prospects, the real estate agent said he has been meditating for nine years and someone has to take a step to become the change.&nbsp;

Also in the mix is the National Road Map Party of India.

Shakeel Ahmed, national general secretary of the party, said elections are fought in the name of casteism and not development. But his party wants to change all that by ending vote bank politics and ensuring the empowerment of Dalits and economically weaker sections of society.&nbsp;

Lal Ji Singh, a candidate from the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party in New Delhi, said the rules of the Chief Electoral Office in Delhi for gaining permission for rallies and public meetings are quite stringent.&nbsp;

He said the online permission portal faces technical glitches and the manual permission takes 48 hours to come by.&nbsp;

The agenda, he said, is to fix problems faced by cart-sellers, decreasing Metro fares and providing free accommodation for students from outside Delhi.&nbsp;

Other parties in the fray include the Anjaan Aadmi Party, Mazdoor Kirayedar Vikas Party, Parivartan Samaj Party, Voters Party International, Sanjhi Virasat Party and Bhartiya Kisan Party.&nbsp;

Delhi votes on May 12 in the fifth round of the seven-phase polling. The votes will be counted on May 23.

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist.

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist. While hoardings of the mainstream parties are splashed across the city, about 45 lesser-known parties such as Anjaan Aadmi Party, Aapki Apni Party, Bhartiya Insan Party and Ambedkar National Congress are also in the list of parties vying for Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, raising issues as varied as Dalit empowerment and vegetarianism. The similarities in some of the names are inescapable, and perhaps not just a coincidence. But there is also the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch, which is focused on making sure that justice is for all, and has fielded three candidates. These parties are aware they might not give the bigger political outfits any competition but their representatives said their mission is to ignite a spark and inform people there are other alternatives too. Dilip Kumar, who runs a laptop repair centre in Nehru Place and is the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch candidate from South Delhi, said everyone should be assured of justice and no one should be above the law. "The rape cases against (self-styled godmen) Asaram Bapu and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan were investigated thoroughly and they were put behind bars but there is no discussion about the sexual harassment case against the chief justice of India. Law should treat everyone equally," he said. Kumar said he will also address local issues. The government, he added, has built toilets but there is no water. "What is the point of building toilets when there is no water?" he asked. The Sanatan Sanskriti Manch is also contesting the New Delhi and Chandni Chowk seats. Also from South Delhi is Navanit of the National Youth Party who believes everyone has the right to contest in a democratic set-up. "Look at Arvind Kejriwal. He came from nowhere and brought the Congress down in Delhi. Everyone has a right to fight the elections in a democratic set-up and in today's time everyone wants their child to become doctor, an engineer but becoming a politician is a no-no," the independent journalist said. Kumar claimed he was the one who investigated the Rafale fighter jet deal for the Congress and said the party has 3,000 workers and will be doing door-to-door campaigning. The party is also contesting from the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency. D Durga Prasad of the Challengers Party dreams big. He aspires to first become the chief minister of Delhi and then the prime minister and said he is contesting from two seats - Northeast Delhi and East Delhi. Prasad, who contested the by-election from Amritsar in 2017, said he chose the Northeast Delhi as it has BJP's "prospective CM candidate Manoj Tiwari" and three-time former chief minister Sheila Dikshit of the Congress in the fray. He stays in East Delhi and that is the reason he is contesting from the seat against BJP's Gautam Gambhir, Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely and AAP's Atishi. "We want a complete transformation of Delhi and want to make it a full-fledged city, the national capital, metropolitan city and state which will control four states -- Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Cities which form the NCR (National Capital Region) should be merged into Delhi," Prasad said. Then there is the Pyramid Party Of India, which is based out of Andhra Pradesh and will be making its electoral debut in Delhi by contesting on five seats - East Delhi, West Delhi, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi and South Delhi. The party recently held a silent rally at Jantar Mantar to promote the concepts of meditation and vegetarianism. "We have four goals -- telling people about the power of meditation, vegetarianism and enlightening people about self-knowledge and spiritual knowledge," the party's West Delhi candidate Kulwinder Singh Mehta said. "We wanted to launch the party in north India and it was felt the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi would be the right platform," Mehta added. Quizzed about his poll prospects, the real estate agent said he has been meditating for nine years and someone has to take a step to become the change. Also in the mix is the National Road Map Party of India. Shakeel Ahmed, national general secretary of the party, said elections are fought in the name of casteism and not development. But his party wants to change all that by ending vote bank politics and ensuring the empowerment of Dalits and economically weaker sections of society. Lal Ji Singh, a candidate from the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party in New Delhi, said the rules of the Chief Electoral Office in Delhi for gaining permission for rallies and public meetings are quite stringent. He said the online permission portal faces technical glitches and the manual permission takes 48 hours to come by. The agenda, he said, is to fix problems faced by cart-sellers, decreasing Metro fares and providing free accommodation for students from outside Delhi. Other parties in the fray include the Anjaan Aadmi Party, Mazdoor Kirayedar Vikas Party, Parivartan Samaj Party, Voters Party International, Sanjhi Virasat Party and Bhartiya Kisan Party. Delhi votes on May 12 in the fifth round of the seven-phase polling. The votes will be counted on May 23.

Smaller parties in Delhi's election ring, not for victory but to make their points

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/will-sunny-deol-contest-election-from-gurdaspur-on-a-bjp-ticket-212822&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjaqJOqzPThAhURSo8KHXdnAMIQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2SH-U-96b4xQL9IlkipLCc">Actor and BJP candidate Sunny Deol </a>Monday paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar ahead of filing his nomination papers from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat.

Sporting a navy blue turban and wearing a blue shirt, the 62-year-old offered prayers at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple.

He also offered prayers at the Durgiana Temple.&nbsp;

Later, he left for Gurdaspur where he will be filling his nomination papers.

The BJP has fielded Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur constituency. Deol is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat.

After filling his nomination papers, Deol will be addressing a rally at?PDA ground in Gurdaspur. The senior leadership of the BJP and the SAD will also be present in the rally.

After the rally, he will leave for Mumbai for casting his vote.

Currently, the Gurdaspur constituency is represented by Congress MP Sunil Jakhar, who won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year.

The Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat had been represented by late actor Vinod Khanna for four-times--1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

Jakhar had defeated BJP candidate Swaran Salaria by a whopping margin of 1,93,219.

Actor and BJP candidate Sunny Deol Monday paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar ahead of filing his nomination papers from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat.

Actor and BJP candidate Sunny Deol Monday paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar ahead of filing his nomination papers from the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat. Sporting a navy blue turban and wearing a blue shirt, the 62-year-old offered prayers at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple. He also offered prayers at the Durgiana Temple. Later, he left for Gurdaspur where he will be filling his nomination papers. The BJP has fielded Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur constituency. Deol is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat. After filling his nomination papers, Deol will be addressing a rally at?PDA ground in Gurdaspur. The senior leadership of the BJP and the SAD will also be present in the rally. After the rally, he will leave for Mumbai for casting his vote. Currently, the Gurdaspur constituency is represented by Congress MP Sunil Jakhar, who won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year. The Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat had been represented by late actor Vinod Khanna for four-times--1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014. Jakhar had defeated BJP candidate Swaran Salaria by a whopping margin of 1,93,219.

Sunny Deol pays obeisance at Golden Temple ahead of filing nomination papers

Actor Sunny Deol is the latest celebrity to have entered politics. On Tuesday the actor joined Bharatiya Janata Party. On Friday, as Deol's photo with BJP chief Amit Shah started doing the rounds of social media, rumours were abuzz that the actor would be joining the party and contesting from one of the key constituencies of Punjab.&nbsp;

Deol was inducted into the party by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday at an event.&nbsp;

According to media reports, Deol is likely to contest from either Gurdaspur or Chandigarh.&nbsp;The BJP, that has formed an alliance with Shiromani Akali Dal, is fighting three of the 13 parliamentary seats in Punjab: Amritsar, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur.

Deol, 62, is best known for his action films like 'Ghatak', 'Gadar', 'Himmat' and 'Border'.

Deol's father, veteran actor Dharmendra had also had a brief stint in politics some ten years back when he contested the 2004 general elections from Rajasthan's Bikaner on BJP ticket and had won. This year, Dharmendra has been campaigning for his wife, actor and BJP MP Hema Malini in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura.&nbsp;

While addressing the press, Deol said, "I will work for this (BJP) family. I won't say much. I will let my work speak for me."

Actor Sunny Deol is the latest celebrity to have entered politics. On Tuesday the actor joined Bharatiya Janata Party. On Friday, as Deol's photo with BJP chief Amit Shah started doing the rounds of social media, rumours were abuzz that the actor would be joining the party and contesting from one of the key constituencies of Punjab.

Actor Sunny Deol is the latest celebrity to have entered politics. On Tuesday the actor joined Bharatiya Janata Party. On Friday, as Deol's photo with BJP chief Amit Shah started doing the rounds of social media, rumours were abuzz that the actor would be joining the party and contesting from one of the key constituencies of Punjab. Deol was inducted into the party by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday at an event. According to media reports, Deol is likely to contest from either Gurdaspur or Chandigarh. The BJP, that has formed an alliance with Shiromani Akali Dal, is fighting three of the 13 parliamentary seats in Punjab: Amritsar, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur. Deol, 62, is best known for his action films like 'Ghatak', 'Gadar', 'Himmat' and 'Border'. Deol's father, veteran actor Dharmendra had also had a brief stint in politics some ten years back when he contested the 2004 general elections from Rajasthan's Bikaner on BJP ticket and had won. This year, Dharmendra has been campaigning for his wife, actor and BJP MP Hema Malini in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura. While addressing the press, Deol said, "I will work for this (BJP) family. I won't say much. I will let my work speak for me."

Actor Sunny Deol joins BJP, likely to contest election from Gurdaspur

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

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

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

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

The bill will be amended after proper consultation with all sections of the society and ensuring safety of the Assamese community, Modi told a poll rally in Silchar, Assam.

Protection to Assamese language, culture and identity will be ensured while considering the Bill again, he assured.

The Bill had been passed by the Lok Sabha by the Modi government on January 8 but was not introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill is now set to lapse on June 3.

Slamming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-charges-congress-with-tughlaq-road-chunav-ghotala-209560">Congress</a>, he said it did not think about the minorities in Pakistan while dividing the country during Independence.

"The fundamentalists tortured our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Is Congress not a culprit for this? People going to mandirs and gurudwaras in Bangladesh and Pakistan had to come to India. Congress sins made them foreigners in their own land ?" he added.

"Our daughters are being tortured in Pakistan even nowadays," he alleged.

On the triple talaq bill, Modi said his government will "strongly try" to pass the legislation after it comes to power at the Centre.

"Even if the Congress, AIUDF and mahamialvat (other opposition parties) try, they will be able to do nothing (to stop the triple talaq bill). Our daughters will get justice," he added.

Referring to the ongoing first phase of Lok Sabha polls in the country, Modi said "As per information I have received so far a huge wave is seen for us in the polling being held today.

"People have decided and it will be difficult for the opposition to survive ... In Assam, all five seats (where polling is being held in the first phase) will be won by BJP and the NDA."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said the BJP is committed to passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill once the NDA returns to power after the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The bill will be amended after proper consultation with all sections of the society and ensuring safety of the Assamese community, Modi told a poll rally in Silchar, Assam. Protection to Assamese language, culture and identity will be ensured while considering the Bill again, he assured. The Bill had been passed by the Lok Sabha by the Modi government on January 8 but was not introduced in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill is now set to lapse on June 3. Slamming the Congress, he said it did not think about the minorities in Pakistan while dividing the country during Independence. "The fundamentalists tortured our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Is Congress not a culprit for this? People going to mandirs and gurudwaras in Bangladesh and Pakistan had to come to India. Congress sins made them foreigners in their own land ?" he added. "Our daughters are being tortured in Pakistan even nowadays," he alleged. On the triple talaq bill, Modi said his government will "strongly try" to pass the legislation after it comes to power at the Centre. "Even if the Congress, AIUDF and mahamialvat (other opposition parties) try, they will be able to do nothing (to stop the triple talaq bill). Our daughters will get justice," he added. Referring to the ongoing first phase of Lok Sabha polls in the country, Modi said "As per information I have received so far a huge wave is seen for us in the polling being held today. "People have decided and it will be difficult for the opposition to survive ... In Assam, all five seats (where polling is being held in the first phase) will be won by BJP and the NDA."

BJP committed to passing Triple Talaq, Citizenship (Amendment) Bill: PM Modi

The BJP will scrap Article 370 of the Constitution which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and introduce <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-national-register-of-citizens-an-explainer-155549">National Register for Citizens</a> across the country if voted to power again, BJP chief Amit Shah said Thursday, raking up the two hugely disputed issues.

On the campaign trail in West Bengal's Kalimpong in Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat and Raigang seat in North Dinajpur, he also accused TMC supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-mamata-banerjee-takes-a-u-turn-on-national-register-of-citizens-156891">Mamata Banerjee </a>of questioning the air strikes to "appease" her minority vote bank, and demanded that she clarify whether she too favoured a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir like her ally National Conference leader Omar Abdullah.

"We will remove Article 370 from Kashmir after forming the next BJP government at the Centre," Shah told an election rally at Kalimpong in Darjeeling Lok Sabha constituency where the party has fielded industrialist Raju Singh Bisht.

Calling illegal migrants from Bangladesh "termites", Shah said at another rally in Raiganj that his party will throw them out after coming to power at the Centre for a second consecutive term.

Shah alleged that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC) that is currently restricted to Assam, was "misleading" people, and vowed to introduce it in every state after winning the polls.

"It is our commitment to bring in NRC across the country to chuck out each and every infiltrator. Unlike Mamata Banerjee, we don't treat infiltrators as our vote bank. For us national security is supreme. We would ensure that each and every Hindu and Buddhist refugee gets citizenship of this country," he said. 
Banerjee has repeatedly claimed the NRC, which seeks to weed out illegal migrants from Assam, will turn even bonafide Indian citizens into refugees. 
The NRC got mired in a massive controversy after the names of around 40 lakh people, living in Assam for decades, were omitted from the complete draft that was released last year.

He alleged that the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal was only interested in appeasing minorities.

The BJP chief claimed that TMC stood for "Tushtikaran, (appeasement), mafia and chit funds.

"Illegal migrants are like termites. They are eating our foodgrains that should go to the poor, they are taking away our jobs. The T of the TMC stands for 'Tushtikaran, M for mafia and C for chitfund (scams)," Shah said.

He also took on the West Bengal chief minister for "questioning the veracity" of the Indian Air Force's strike in Pakistan's Balakot to avenge the killing of 40 CRPF troopers in Kashmir, saying the IAF's assault was mourned in only two places--Pakistan and Mamata Banerjee's office.

"We came to know that Mamata Banerjee was mourning the air strikes. It is quite obvious that the air strikes will be mourned in Pakistan. But why is Mamata Banerjee mourning? She is mourning in order to appease her minority vote bank. This is a shame," Shah said, attacking the West Bengal leader.

Banerjee and other opposition leaders may be interested in talks with Pakistan but the government beleives in responding to their "bullets with canon balls", he said.

"Apko (Mamata) Pakistan ke saath ilu ilu (I love you) karna hain toh kijiye. Lekin agar Pakistan goli marega toh hum gola marenge (If you are interested in love with Pakistan, you can do that but we would respond to their bullets with canon balls)," Shah said, referring to the popular love song from film Saudagar released in the early 1990s.

Mocking the grand opposition alliance proposed by Banerjee, Shah wondered why the Congress and CPI(M) were criticising the TMC if they were her allies.

"I wonder what kind of grand alliance Banerjee is proposing. She is saying vote for the grand alliance. Why are the Congress and CPI(M) criticising her TMC if they are allies at the Centre. The fact is no one is willing to stand with Banerjee. This alliance neither has a leader nor a policy," he said.

Seeking to reach out to tea garden workers, who constitute a sizeable section of the electorate, the BJP chief said his party's manifesto has promised to provide a pension of Rs 3,000 to them after the age of 60.

In Assam, where the BJP is in power, the government has twice transferred Rs 2,500 directly to their bank accounts, he said, claiming the TMC government in West Bengal neglected tea garden workers.

Shah said the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal were about "restoring democracy" in the TMC-ruled state.

Claiming that the countdown to the "corrupt" TMC government's downfall will begin on May 23, the day the Lok Sabha election results are declared, Shah appealed to the voters to give the BJP another opportunity to serve them. The BJP, he asserted, will win 23 seats in the state.

Under the TMC rule "all three--mother, motherland and people are suffering", he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party.

"Mothers are now bereft of love, infiltrators have taken away our land and people are being brutalised and killed," he said.

Shah referred to the firing incident at Darivit High School in North Dinajpur district in September last year that had left two students dead during a protest against the alleged appointment of an Urdu teacher.

He accused Banerjee of trying to "impose" Urdu on the Bengali-speaking people of the state and urged them to defeat the TMC candidate in Raiganj to avenge the killing.

Only Modi can save Bengal from the TMC and its "reign of terror", the BJP chief claimed.

The BJP is making a determined bid to expand its influence in West Bengal where the support base of the Congress and the Left has shrunk over the years.

Shah has set a somewhat ambitious target of winning 23 of the state's 42 seats. The BJP had won only two seats in the state in 2014.

The BJP will scrap Article 370 of the Constitution which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and introduce National Register for Citizens across the country if voted to power again, BJP chief Amit Shah said Thursday, raking up the two hugely disputed issues.

The BJP will scrap Article 370 of the Constitution which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and introduce National Register for Citizens across the country if voted to power again, BJP chief Amit Shah said Thursday, raking up the two hugely disputed issues. On the campaign trail in West Bengal's Kalimpong in Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat and Raigang seat in North Dinajpur, he also accused TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee of questioning the air strikes to "appease" her minority vote bank, and demanded that she clarify whether she too favoured a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir like her ally National Conference leader Omar Abdullah. "We will remove Article 370 from Kashmir after forming the next BJP government at the Centre," Shah told an election rally at Kalimpong in Darjeeling Lok Sabha constituency where the party has fielded industrialist Raju Singh Bisht. Calling illegal migrants from Bangladesh "termites", Shah said at another rally in Raiganj that his party will throw them out after coming to power at the Centre for a second consecutive term. Shah alleged that Banerjee, who is vehemently opposed to the contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC) that is currently restricted to Assam, was "misleading" people, and vowed to introduce it in every state after winning the polls. "It is our commitment to bring in NRC across the country to chuck out each and every infiltrator. Unlike Mamata Banerjee, we don't treat infiltrators as our vote bank. For us national security is supreme. We would ensure that each and every Hindu and Buddhist refugee gets citizenship of this country," he said. Banerjee has repeatedly claimed the NRC, which seeks to weed out illegal migrants from Assam, will turn even bonafide Indian citizens into refugees. The NRC got mired in a massive controversy after the names of around 40 lakh people, living in Assam for decades, were omitted from the complete draft that was released last year. He alleged that the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal was only interested in appeasing minorities. The BJP chief claimed that TMC stood for "Tushtikaran, (appeasement), mafia and chit funds. "Illegal migrants are like termites. They are eating our foodgrains that should go to the poor, they are taking away our jobs. The T of the TMC stands for 'Tushtikaran, M for mafia and C for chitfund (scams)," Shah said. He also took on the West Bengal chief minister for "questioning the veracity" of the Indian Air Force's strike in Pakistan's Balakot to avenge the killing of 40 CRPF troopers in Kashmir, saying the IAF's assault was mourned in only two places--Pakistan and Mamata Banerjee's office. "We came to know that Mamata Banerjee was mourning the air strikes. It is quite obvious that the air strikes will be mourned in Pakistan. But why is Mamata Banerjee mourning? She is mourning in order to appease her minority vote bank. This is a shame," Shah said, attacking the West Bengal leader. Banerjee and other opposition leaders may be interested in talks with Pakistan but the government beleives in responding to their "bullets with canon balls", he said. "Apko (Mamata) Pakistan ke saath ilu ilu (I love you) karna hain toh kijiye. Lekin agar Pakistan goli marega toh hum gola marenge (If you are interested in love with Pakistan, you can do that but we would respond to their bullets with canon balls)," Shah said, referring to the popular love song from film Saudagar released in the early 1990s. Mocking the grand opposition alliance proposed by Banerjee, Shah wondered why the Congress and CPI(M) were criticising the TMC if they were her allies. "I wonder what kind of grand alliance Banerjee is proposing. She is saying vote for the grand alliance. Why are the Congress and CPI(M) criticising her TMC if they are allies at the Centre. The fact is no one is willing to stand with Banerjee. This alliance neither has a leader nor a policy," he said. Seeking to reach out to tea garden workers, who constitute a sizeable section of the electorate, the BJP chief said his party's manifesto has promised to provide a pension of Rs 3,000 to them after the age of 60. In Assam, where the BJP is in power, the government has twice transferred Rs 2,500 directly to their bank accounts, he said, claiming the TMC government in West Bengal neglected tea garden workers. Shah said the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal were about "restoring democracy" in the TMC-ruled state. Claiming that the countdown to the "corrupt" TMC government's downfall will begin on May 23, the day the Lok Sabha election results are declared, Shah appealed to the voters to give the BJP another opportunity to serve them. The BJP, he asserted, will win 23 seats in the state. Under the TMC rule "all three--mother, motherland and people are suffering", he said, referring to the 'Ma, Maati and Manush' slogan of West Bengal's ruling party. "Mothers are now bereft of love, infiltrators have taken away our land and people are being brutalised and killed," he said. Shah referred to the firing incident at Darivit High School in North Dinajpur district in September last year that had left two students dead during a protest against the alleged appointment of an Urdu teacher. He accused Banerjee of trying to "impose" Urdu on the Bengali-speaking people of the state and urged them to defeat the TMC candidate in Raiganj to avenge the killing. Only Modi can save Bengal from the TMC and its "reign of terror", the BJP chief claimed. The BJP is making a determined bid to expand its influence in West Bengal where the support base of the Congress and the Left has shrunk over the years. Shah has set a somewhat ambitious target of winning 23 of the state's 42 seats. The BJP had won only two seats in the state in 2014.

We will scrap Article 370, introduce NRC across country: Amit Shah

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar".

The artists appealed to the people to cast their vote without any pressure and prejudice.

"It is our firm conviction that the continuance of government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the need of the hour. Besides, when challenges like terrorism are before all of us, we need a 'Majboot Sarkar' not a 'Majboor Sarkar' and hence we need the present government to continue," it said.

Among those who have issued the joint statement are Shankar Mahadevan, Triloki Nath Mishra, Koena Mitra, Anuradha Paudwal and Hans Raj Hans.

The joint statement said that during the last five years, India has seen a government which delivered "corruption-free good governance and development-oriented administration".

The joint statement comes a week after more than 600 theatre personalities, including Amol Palekar, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad and Usha Ganguli, had signed a letter asking people to "vote BJP and its allies" out of power, arguing that the idea of India and its constitution are under threat.&nbsp;

The letter, which was issued Thursday evening in 12 languages on the Artist Unite India website, said the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are the "most critical in the history" of the country.

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar".

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar". The artists appealed to the people to cast their vote without any pressure and prejudice. "It is our firm conviction that the continuance of government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the need of the hour. Besides, when challenges like terrorism are before all of us, we need a 'Majboot Sarkar' not a 'Majboor Sarkar' and hence we need the present government to continue," it said. Among those who have issued the joint statement are Shankar Mahadevan, Triloki Nath Mishra, Koena Mitra, Anuradha Paudwal and Hans Raj Hans. The joint statement said that during the last five years, India has seen a government which delivered "corruption-free good governance and development-oriented administration". The joint statement comes a week after more than 600 theatre personalities, including Amol Palekar, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad and Usha Ganguli, had signed a letter asking people to "vote BJP and its allies" out of power, arguing that the idea of India and its constitution are under threat. The letter, which was issued Thursday evening in 12 languages on the Artist Unite India website, said the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are the "most critical in the history" of the country.

After 600 artists issued statements to vote BJP out of power, over 900 urge people to vote for them

Ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720">first phase of polling on April 11th</a>, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-our-inspiration-good-governance-our-mantra-says-pm-modi-as-bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-208728">PM Narendra Modi</a> and party president Amit Shah. Rajnath Singh who was the key member of the party's manifesto committee presented the BJP's programme.

The vision document 2019&nbsp;emphasised on "zero tolerance" on terrorism and illegal migration.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We will ensure corruption-free Bharat by effective governance and transparent decision making. 
 
To empower citizens and ensure time-bound delivery of public services, we will explore every avenue to implement the Right to Service. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJPSankalpPatr2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJPSankalpPatr2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/4W8GbVqWr0">pic.twitter.com/4W8GbVqWr0</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1115147525533523968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We have our full commitment for uniform civil code,"&nbsp;Rajnath Singh said.

"We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370."&nbsp;

"We are committed to annulling Article 35A of the Constitution of India as the provision is discriminatory against non-permanent residents and women of Jammu and Kashmir," Rajnath Singh added.

"Citizenship Amendment bill will&nbsp;be passed,"&nbsp;Rajanath Singh said while asserting that regional identity will be protected. Our "Sankalp Patra"&nbsp;is a vision document that lists expectations of 130 crore Indians, Rajnath Singh, head of BJP's manifesto committee, said.

"All alternative options will be explored for construction of Ram temple in a most conducive manner," Rajnath Singh said adding, "We will also give pension facility to small and marginal farmers after 60 years of age.

"We will give Rs 6,000 yearly income support to all farmers and pension to small and marginal farmers above 60 years of age&nbsp;under Kisan Samman Nidhi,"&nbsp;he said.

"BJP promises to spend Rs 25 lakh crore on rural development in the next five years," Rajnath Singh informed.&nbsp;

"Seventy-five&nbsp;new medical colleges and postgraduate colleges will be established if BJP is voted to power,"&nbsp;he said.

During his opening speech, Amit Shah reminded party leaders about the 2014 polls when Narendra Modi was presented as the PM candidate. He emphasised on the party's programme in the last five years on the Swachh campaign, housing and farmer policy.

"The nation has achieved new heights under PM Modi," Amit Shah said, adding, "India is the fastest growing economy in the world."

"The country feels safe under PM Modi," he added.

The presentation ceremony was attended by top leaders including external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720"> finance minister Arun Jaitley </a>among others.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls will conclude on May 19th with the results to be announced on May 23rd.

Ahead of the first phase of polling on April 11th, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi. The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah.

Ahead of the first phase of polling on April 11th, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi. The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah. Rajnath Singh who was the key member of the party's manifesto committee presented the BJP's programme. The vision document 2019 emphasised on "zero tolerance" on terrorism and illegal migration. We will ensure corruption-free Bharat by effective governance and transparent decision making. To empower citizens and ensure time-bound delivery of public services, we will explore every avenue to implement the Right to Service. #BJPSankalpPatr2019 pic.twitter.com/4W8GbVqWr0 — BJP (@BJP4India) April 8, 2019 × "We have our full commitment for uniform civil code," Rajnath Singh said. "We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370." "We are committed to annulling Article 35A of the Constitution of India as the provision is discriminatory against non-permanent residents and women of Jammu and Kashmir," Rajnath Singh added. "Citizenship Amendment bill will be passed," Rajanath Singh said while asserting that regional identity will be protected. Our "Sankalp Patra" is a vision document that lists expectations of 130 crore Indians, Rajnath Singh, head of BJP's manifesto committee, said. "All alternative options will be explored for construction of Ram temple in a most conducive manner," Rajnath Singh said adding, "We will also give pension facility to small and marginal farmers after 60 years of age. "We will give Rs 6,000 yearly income support to all farmers and pension to small and marginal farmers above 60 years of age under Kisan Samman Nidhi," he said. "BJP promises to spend Rs 25 lakh crore on rural development in the next five years," Rajnath Singh informed. "Seventy-five new medical colleges and postgraduate colleges will be established if BJP is voted to power," he said. During his opening speech, Amit Shah reminded party leaders about the 2014 polls when Narendra Modi was presented as the PM candidate. He emphasised on the party's programme in the last five years on the Swachh campaign, housing and farmer policy. "The nation has achieved new heights under PM Modi," Amit Shah said, adding, "India is the fastest growing economy in the world." "The country feels safe under PM Modi," he added. The presentation ceremony was attended by top leaders including external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, finance minister Arun Jaitley among others. The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls will conclude on May 19th with the results to be announced on May 23rd.

BJP unveils election manifesto; 'zero tolerance' on terrorism, full commitment towards uniform civil code

India Election Watch: Latest election news

A week before the first phase of elections, ruling BJP has taken a big lead in advertising on Google and its affiliated platforms such as YouTube with an ad spend of Rs 1.21 crore, while its main rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-not-going-to-say-a-word-against-the-cpm-in-my-entire-campaign-rahul-gandhi-207872">Congress</a> has spent only Rs 54,100, the search engine said.

Google, in a report on political advertisement across its platforms — Google, YouTube and partner properties, said Rs 3.76 crore was spent by advertisers since February 19.

"Our goal is to provide greater transparency in political advertising on Google, YouTube, and partner properties. This report includes information about Lok Sabha election ads that feature or are run by a political party, a political candidate, or a current member of the Lok Sabha," it said.

Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP was the biggest ad spender with a total expenditure of Rs 1.48 crore. His ad spend was by two firms — Pramanya Strategy Consulting (Rs 85.25 lakh) and Digitant Consulting (Rs 63.43 lakh).

<img alt="Political ads" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e3108cd-bddc-4fbe-9334-f7c9d504455e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%20Spenders.JPG" />BJP spent Rs 1.21 crore on advertisements during this period.

TDP's rival YSR Congress of Jagan Reddy was a close third with an ad spend of Rs 1.04 crore.

Congress spent Rs 54,100 on Google platforms.

<img alt="Political ads" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ebec6b27-196a-4a09-8ed7-cb5e5b6306df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Political%20ads.JPG" />

The remaining spend was by Ethinos Digital Marketing (RS 1.56 lakh), Pammi Sai Charan Reddy (Rs 26,400), Harshnath Human Services (Rs 6,300), Jaskaran Dhillon (Rs 5,400), Vidooly Media Tech (Rs 1,300) and Akula Satyanarayana (Rs 400).

With Andhra Pradesh going to polls in the first phase on April 11, the state saw the biggest ad spend of Rs 1.73 crore, followed by Bihar (Rs 10.5 lakh), Maharashtra (Rs 17.19 lakh), Uttar Pradesh (18.47 lakh).

Advertisement spend by Andhra parties is likely to dry out after April 11. The state will go to polls in a single phase on that day. Polling for all the 25 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state as well as 175 assembly seats will be held on April 11.&nbsp;

A week before the first phase of elections, ruling BJP has taken a big lead in advertising on Google and its affiliated platforms such as YouTube with an ad spend of Rs 1.

A week before the first phase of elections, ruling BJP has taken a big lead in advertising on Google and its affiliated platforms such as YouTube with an ad spend of Rs 1.21 crore, while its main rival Congress has spent only Rs 54,100, the search engine said. Google, in a report on political advertisement across its platforms — Google, YouTube and partner properties, said Rs 3.76 crore was spent by advertisers since February 19. "Our goal is to provide greater transparency in political advertising on Google, YouTube, and partner properties. This report includes information about Lok Sabha election ads that feature or are run by a political party, a political candidate, or a current member of the Lok Sabha," it said. Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP was the biggest ad spender with a total expenditure of Rs 1.48 crore. His ad spend was by two firms — Pramanya Strategy Consulting (Rs 85.25 lakh) and Digitant Consulting (Rs 63.43 lakh). BJP spent Rs 1.21 crore on advertisements during this period. TDP's rival YSR Congress of Jagan Reddy was a close third with an ad spend of Rs 1.04 crore. Congress spent Rs 54,100 on Google platforms. The remaining spend was by Ethinos Digital Marketing (RS 1.56 lakh), Pammi Sai Charan Reddy (Rs 26,400), Harshnath Human Services (Rs 6,300), Jaskaran Dhillon (Rs 5,400), Vidooly Media Tech (Rs 1,300) and Akula Satyanarayana (Rs 400). With Andhra Pradesh going to polls in the first phase on April 11, the state saw the biggest ad spend of Rs 1.73 crore, followed by Bihar (Rs 10.5 lakh), Maharashtra (Rs 17.19 lakh), Uttar Pradesh (18.47 lakh). Advertisement spend by Andhra parties is likely to dry out after April 11. The state will go to polls in a single phase on that day. Polling for all the 25 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state as well as 175 assembly seats will be held on April 11.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP has spent Rs 1.21 crore on advertising on Google, Congress Rs 54,100

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