<p>Rajasthan Agriculture Minister and senior BJP leader Dr Kirodi Lal Meena has resigned from the cabinet.</p>

<p>"I had announced to resign if we lose Dausa and other Lok Sabha seats assigned to me, so I cannot back out," he added.</p>

<p>Meena said that he was in Delhi for two days. The party's national general secretary had called him for talks, but could not meet him.</p>

<p>Meena said that he has no resentment against the organisation or the chief minister.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-to-take-oath-as-jharkhand-cm-today-737788">Hemant Soren to take oath as Jharkhand CM today</a></strong></p>

<p>The BJP leader had said during the Lok Sabha elections that if he loses the seats for which he has been given responsibility, he will resign.</p>

<p>After the results, there was pressure on Meena to resign. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra had also said that Meena should not back out and should resign.</p>

<p>Meena and Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar had a face-off recently over the transfer of engineers from the Agriculture Department, which was resented by the former.</p>

<p>Even before the results of the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Meena had hinted at resignation while posting on social media as trends had shown BJP losing 11 seats.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stampede-6-satsang-organisers-arrested-in-stampede-mishap-says-police-737796">India stampede: 6 ‘satsang organisers’ arrested in stampede mishap, says police</a></strong></p>

<p>He even quoted Ramcharit Manas and said, "Raghukul reet sada chali aayi, pran jaaye par vachan na jaaye."</p>

<p>After resigning, Kirodi Lal Meena participated in a religious programme.</p>

<p>He said, "Reservation of those who convert religion due to greed and government's negligence should be abolished. The government should take strict action against those who split Hinduism. Rohingyas have entered Bengal and Assam. Rohingyas should be strictly stopped. They are very dangerous for the country. Religion should have control over politics."</p>


Rajasthan Agriculture Minister and senior BJP leader Dr Kirodi Lal Meena has resigned from the cabinet. "I had announced to resign if we lose Dausa and other Lok Sabha seats assigned to me, so I cannot back out," he added.

Rajasthan Agriculture Minister and senior BJP leader Dr Kirodi Lal Meena has resigned from the cabinet. "I had announced to resign if we lose Dausa and other Lok Sabha seats assigned to me, so I cannot back out," he added. Meena said that he was in Delhi for two days. The party's national general secretary had called him for talks, but could not meet him. Meena said that he has no resentment against the organisation or the chief minister. Also read | Hemant Soren to take oath as Jharkhand CM today The BJP leader had said during the Lok Sabha elections that if he loses the seats for which he has been given responsibility, he will resign. After the results, there was pressure on Meena to resign. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra had also said that Meena should not back out and should resign. Meena and Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar had a face-off recently over the transfer of engineers from the Agriculture Department, which was resented by the former. Even before the results of the Lok Sabha elections were announced, Meena had hinted at resignation while posting on social media as trends had shown BJP losing 11 seats. Also read | India stampede: 6 ‘satsang organisers’ arrested in stampede mishap, says police He even quoted Ramcharit Manas and said, "Raghukul reet sada chali aayi, pran jaaye par vachan na jaaye." After resigning, Kirodi Lal Meena participated in a religious programme. He said, "Reservation of those who convert religion due to greed and government's negligence should be abolished. The government should take strict action against those who split Hinduism. Rohingyas have entered Bengal and Assam. Rohingyas should be strictly stopped. They are very dangerous for the country. Religion should have control over politics."

BJP's Kirodi Lal Meena resigns from Rajasthan cabinet

<p>Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee's video, in which he is mocking the poll slogan of Bharatiya Janata Party ‘abki baar 400 paar’ while speaking in the&nbsp;Lok Sabha, went viral on Tuesday (July 2).</p>

<p>“They played the game with ‘abki Paar 400 paar.’ There are many games, and chu-kit-kit is one of them,” Kalyan Banerjee said.</p>

<p>While speaking about the game, an MP from West Bengal’s Srerampur constituency said that their slogan ‘400’ had resonance with ‘chu’ and it came to end with ‘kit-kit’.</p>

<p>“You only won 240 seats and still lost that game,” he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">This is the clip from the speech of ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/Trinamool?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Trinamool</a>⁩ ‘s MP Kalyan Banerjee<br />
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ये कौन से खेल के बारे में बात कर रहे हैं ? <a href="https://t.co/NTqi3PZt92">pic.twitter.com/NTqi3PZt92</a></p>
— Saurabh shukla (@Saurabh_Unmute) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saurabh_Unmute/status/1808039572451864855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Chu-kit-kit?</strong></h2>

<p>Chu-kit-kit is a popular game which is played by children in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is seen as the modified version of Hopscotch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-narendra-modi-in-parliament-says-youre-not-a-hindu-736723">Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says ‘you’re not a Hindu’</a></p>

<p>In the game, nine squares are drawn inside a large triangle and the players must strike a stone while trying to avoid the other leg from touching the ground.</p>

<p>At the start of the game, the players loudly say ‘chu', and they pronounce ‘kit-kit’ in a slower tone.</p>

<p>TMC MP's comments receive laughter-filled responses from parliamentarians&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments made by TMC MP Banerjee were followed by laughter from his party MPs, which included first-time MP Saayoni Ghosh and MP Mahua Moitra</p>

<p>While speaking in&nbsp;the House, Kalyan Banerjee was also looking at other parliamentarians after which Speaker Om Birla intervened and asked him to shift his attention towards him.</p>

<p>Replying to this, Kalyan Banerjee said, “Sir, I am looking at you only… There is no one smarter in this House than you. There is no gentleman like you… Everyone looks at you only.”</p>

<h2><strong>Kalyan Banerjee mimicked&nbsp;Jagdeep Dhankhar</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first when Kalyan Banerjee&nbsp;has joked about something on the Parliament premises.</p>

<p>He had mimicked Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on December 19, 2023, amid the protest by the Opposition on the stairs of Parliament against the suspension of MPs, which was strongly condemned by the ruling BJP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NEET row in parliament: Indian PM Modi to reply to the Motion of Thanks</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/neet-row-in-parliament-indian-pm-modi-to-reply-to-the-motion-of-thanks-736942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Speaking in the House, Dhankhar said that he will not tolerate any disrespect to Parliament or the vice president's constitutional post.</p>

<p>Reacting to the statement of Banerjee in the House, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonwala said on X, “Yesterday “Hindu Hinsak Hai”; jibes at Chair by Rahul Gandhi. Now the most atrocious and disgusting comments aimed at Speaker’s Chair by Kalyan Banerjee who even mocked posture of VP Jagdeep Dhankar.”</p>

<p>“I agree Congress, TMC got few more seats than expected. So does that mean mock Hindus - mock Constitutional positions - make Parliament a platform for comedy? Not a word by TMC on Talibani Tajmul who was defended by TMC MLA by saying that the victim was characterless and this flogging is ok in Muslim Rashtra! Mahua Moitra laughs and claps - how many words for the victim of Tajmul? For Sandeshkhali ??” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee's video, in which he is mocking the poll slogan of Bharatiya Janata Party ‘abki baar 400 paar’ while speaking in the Lok Sabha, went viral on Tuesday (July 2).

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee's video, in which he is mocking the poll slogan of Bharatiya Janata Party ‘abki baar 400 paar’ while speaking in the Lok Sabha, went viral on Tuesday (July 2). “They played the game with ‘abki Paar 400 paar.’ There are many games, and chu-kit-kit is one of them,” Kalyan Banerjee said. While speaking about the game, an MP from West Bengal’s Srerampur constituency said that their slogan ‘400’ had resonance with ‘chu’ and it came to end with ‘kit-kit’. “You only won 240 seats and still lost that game,” he said. This is the clip from the speech of ⁦@Trinamool⁩ ‘s MP Kalyan Banerjee ये कौन से खेल के बारे में बात कर रहे हैं ? pic.twitter.com/NTqi3PZt92 — Saurabh shukla (@Saurabh_Unmute) July 2, 2024 × What is Chu-kit-kit? Chu-kit-kit is a popular game which is played by children in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is seen as the modified version of Hopscotch. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says ‘you’re not a Hindu’ In the game, nine squares are drawn inside a large triangle and the players must strike a stone while trying to avoid the other leg from touching the ground. At the start of the game, the players loudly say ‘chu', and they pronounce ‘kit-kit’ in a slower tone. TMC MP's comments receive laughter-filled responses from parliamentarians The comments made by TMC MP Banerjee were followed by laughter from his party MPs, which included first-time MP Saayoni Ghosh and MP Mahua Moitra While speaking in the House, Kalyan Banerjee was also looking at other parliamentarians after which Speaker Om Birla intervened and asked him to shift his attention towards him. Replying to this, Kalyan Banerjee said, “Sir, I am looking at you only… There is no one smarter in this House than you. There is no gentleman like you… Everyone looks at you only.” Kalyan Banerjee mimicked Jagdeep Dhankhar This is not the first when Kalyan Banerjee has joked about something on the Parliament premises. He had mimicked Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on December 19, 2023, amid the protest by the Opposition on the stairs of Parliament against the suspension of MPs, which was strongly condemned by the ruling BJP. Watch: NEET row in parliament: Indian PM Modi to reply to the Motion of Thanks Speaking in the House, Dhankhar said that he will not tolerate any disrespect to Parliament or the vice president's constitutional post. Reacting to the statement of Banerjee in the House, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonwala said on X, “Yesterday “Hindu Hinsak Hai”; jibes at Chair by Rahul Gandhi. Now the most atrocious and disgusting comments aimed at Speaker’s Chair by Kalyan Banerjee who even mocked posture of VP Jagdeep Dhankar.” “I agree Congress, TMC got few more seats than expected. So does that mean mock Hindus - mock Constitutional positions - make Parliament a platform for comedy? Not a word by TMC on Talibani Tajmul who was defended by TMC MLA by saying that the victim was characterless and this flogging is ok in Muslim Rashtra! Mahua Moitra laughs and claps - how many words for the victim of Tajmul? For Sandeshkhali ??” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

TMC MP says BJP's ‘400 paar’ slogan started with ‘chu’, ended with ‘kit-kit’ at 240; video goes viral

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Monday (July 1) that the new criminal laws, which came into effect from July 1, have ended the era of British laws in India, transforming the criminal justice system into one that is 'completely Swadeshi'.</p>

<p>The Union Minister emphasised that these laws align with the spirit of the Constitution and, once fully implemented, will represent the most modern set of laws.</p>

<p>"I congratulate the people of India that about 77 years after independence, our criminal justice system is becoming completely 'Swadeshi'. This will function on Indian philosophy. After 75 years, these laws were considered upon and when these laws are in effect from today (July 1), colonial laws have been scrapped and laws made in the Indian Parliament are being brought into practice," he said.</p>

<p>The Union Minister further mentioned that many groups will benefit from the new criminal laws, which prioritise women and children.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-explosive-maiden-speech-as-leader-of-opposition-slamming-modi-expunged-partly-india-736953">Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged</a></p>

<p>"Instead of punishment, it is now justice. Instead of delay, there will be immediate trials and speedy justice. Earlier, only the rights of the police were protected, but now, victims' and complainants' rights will be protected too," Shah said during a press conference.</p>

<p>“Now, instead of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), there will be Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), instead of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), there will be Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), instead of the Indian Evidence Act, there will be Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA),” said the Home Minister.</p>

<p>"We have prioritised sections and chapters in accordance with the spirit of our Constitution, with the first priority given to crimes against women and children. I believe this should have been done much earlier," Shah remarked.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-narendra-modi-in-government-says-youre-not-a-hindu-736723">Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says ‘you’re not a Hindu’</a></p>

<p>Rejecting the accusations of passing laws without adequate discussion in Parliament, Amit Shah stated, "No other law in the history of the country has been discussed in such detail in Parliament."</p>

<p>“The first case under the new criminal law was registered in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. It involved a theft; someone's motorcycle was stolen. The case was registered at 12:10 am," said the Union Minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Monday (July 1) that the new criminal laws, which came into effect from July 1, have ended the era of British laws in India, transforming the criminal justice system into one that is 'completely Swadeshi'.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Monday (July 1) that the new criminal laws, which came into effect from July 1, have ended the era of British laws in India, transforming the criminal justice system into one that is 'completely Swadeshi'. The Union Minister emphasised that these laws align with the spirit of the Constitution and, once fully implemented, will represent the most modern set of laws. "I congratulate the people of India that about 77 years after independence, our criminal justice system is becoming completely 'Swadeshi'. This will function on Indian philosophy. After 75 years, these laws were considered upon and when these laws are in effect from today (July 1), colonial laws have been scrapped and laws made in the Indian Parliament are being brought into practice," he said. The Union Minister further mentioned that many groups will benefit from the new criminal laws, which prioritise women and children. Also read: Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged "Instead of punishment, it is now justice. Instead of delay, there will be immediate trials and speedy justice. Earlier, only the rights of the police were protected, but now, victims' and complainants' rights will be protected too," Shah said during a press conference. “Now, instead of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), there will be Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), instead of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), there will be Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), instead of the Indian Evidence Act, there will be Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA),” said the Home Minister. "We have prioritised sections and chapters in accordance with the spirit of our Constitution, with the first priority given to crimes against women and children. I believe this should have been done much earlier," Shah remarked. Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Narendra Modi in parliament, says ‘you’re not a Hindu’ Rejecting the accusations of passing laws without adequate discussion in Parliament, Amit Shah stated, "No other law in the history of the country has been discussed in such detail in Parliament." “The first case under the new criminal law was registered in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. It involved a theft; someone's motorcycle was stolen. The case was registered at 12:10 am," said the Union Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

New criminal laws to prioritise justice over punishment, says Home Minister Amit Shah

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office.</p>

<p>During the meeting, the Prime Minister advised all NDA MPs “not to act like Leader of Opposition(LoP) Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-session-live-pm-modi-likely-to-respond-to-rahul-gandhis-explosive-speech-736977">Parliament Session LIVE: BJP misusing name of Hindutva, says Shashi Tharoor</a></p>

<p>Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, while speaking to reporters after the meeting said, "Prime Minister gave us an important mantra during the meet. He emphasised that every MP has been elected to the House to serve the nation. Regardless of the party they belong to, our first responsibility is to serve the nation."</p>

<p>"Every NDA MP has to work by prioritising the country, this is what the PM urged. Secondly, the PM guided us well regarding the conduct of MPs. He said that every MP should present the matters of their constituency in the House very well as per rules. He also told us to develop expertise in other major issues of interest - be it water, environment, social area. So, PM told us to develop expertise in those areas," Rijiju said.</p>

<p>"The Prime Minister further requested that every MP, along with their family, should visit the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya. At Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the journey from Pt Jawaharlal Nehru to PM Narendra Modi has been displayed in a beautiful manner. There is no political agenda...This is the first such effort that the entire country should get to know of the contribution of each PM, appreciate it, learn from it and pay tribute to them," the Union Minister said.</p>

<p>Rijiju further said, "The manner in which LoP Rahul Gandhi behaved yesterday, turned his back towards the Speaker, spoke out of rules and insulted the Speaker is something that people of our party, the NDA should not do..."</p>

<p>Earlier on Monday (July 1), the Lok Sabha was adjourned until 11 am on Tuesday (July 2).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhis-explosive-maiden-speech-as-leader-of-opposition-slamming-modi-expunged-partly-india-736953">Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged</a></p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy with his remarks on Hinduism.</p>

<p>Gandhi slammed PM Modi, who was present in the parliament, without directly naming him. Gandhi&nbsp;remarked, "Those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not a Hindu)."</p>

<p>PM Modi then condemned him for calling the entire Hindu community violent&nbsp;during his speech&nbsp;and said, "Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter."</p>

<p>Later, Home Minister Amit Shah also demanded an apology from LoP Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday (July 2). This was PM's first address to the MPs during the first session of Parliament since beginning his third term in office. During the meeting, the Prime Minister advised all NDA MPs “not to act like Leader of Opposition(LoP) Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha.” ALSO READ: Parliament Session LIVE: BJP misusing name of Hindutva, says Shashi Tharoor Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, while speaking to reporters after the meeting said, "Prime Minister gave us an important mantra during the meet. He emphasised that every MP has been elected to the House to serve the nation. Regardless of the party they belong to, our first responsibility is to serve the nation." "Every NDA MP has to work by prioritising the country, this is what the PM urged. Secondly, the PM guided us well regarding the conduct of MPs. He said that every MP should present the matters of their constituency in the House very well as per rules. He also told us to develop expertise in other major issues of interest - be it water, environment, social area. So, PM told us to develop expertise in those areas," Rijiju said. "The Prime Minister further requested that every MP, along with their family, should visit the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya. At Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the journey from Pt Jawaharlal Nehru to PM Narendra Modi has been displayed in a beautiful manner. There is no political agenda...This is the first such effort that the entire country should get to know of the contribution of each PM, appreciate it, learn from it and pay tribute to them," the Union Minister said. Rijiju further said, "The manner in which LoP Rahul Gandhi behaved yesterday, turned his back towards the Speaker, spoke out of rules and insulted the Speaker is something that people of our party, the NDA should not do..." Earlier on Monday (July 1), the Lok Sabha was adjourned until 11 am on Tuesday (July 2). ALSO READ: Parts of Rahul Gandhi's explosive maiden speech as LoP slamming PM Narendra Modi expunged Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy with his remarks on Hinduism. Gandhi slammed PM Modi, who was present in the parliament, without directly naming him. Gandhi remarked, "Those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not a Hindu)." PM Modi then condemned him for calling the entire Hindu community violent during his speech and said, "Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter." Later, Home Minister Amit Shah also demanded an apology from LoP Rahul Gandhi. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Don’t behave like Rahul Gandhi did in Lok Sabha’: PM Modi tells MPs at NDA parliamentary meet

<p>Opposition INDIA bloc MPs staged a protest in the Parliament premises in New Delhi on Monday&nbsp;(Jul&nbsp;1) against the alleged misuse of probe agencies by the government to "target" them.</p>

<p>Lok Sabha&nbsp;Leader of Opposition&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi alongside&nbsp;several leaders of the INDIA bloc, including those from the TMC and AAP, participated in the protest on the steps leading to the Makar Dwar in Parliament.</p>

<p>As power reports, they carried placards which read "Stop misusing agencies to silence opposition" and "BJP mein jao bhrashtachar ka licence pao (Join the BJP and get a licence for corruption)".&nbsp;Some AAP leaders also displayed posters of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal standing behind bars.</p>

<p>This comes as three new criminal laws replacing British-era laws come into effect in India on Monday. These new laws, as per reports, take into account some current social realities and modern-day crimes.</p>

<p>With the opposition slamming the ruling government over what they say is NDA's "bulldozer justice," the second week of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha is expected to see a fiery, chaotic start.</p>

<h2><strong>India's new criminal laws</strong></h2>

<p>Named the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), these laws have replaced the British-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-ready-to-implement-new-criminal-laws-which-come-into-effect-on-july-1-736585">Delhi Police ready to implement new criminal laws which come into effect on July 1</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Opposition slams NDA-BJP</strong></h2>

<p>The opposition has slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led NDA Alliance and said that it was another case of "bulldozing" existing laws and that "90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job".</p>

<p>In a post on X, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said that "90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job. A task that could have been completed with a few amendments to the existing three laws has been turned into a wasteful exercise."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The three criminal laws to replace the IPC, CrPC and Indian Evidence Act come into force today<br />
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90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job. A task that could have been completed with a few amendments to the existing three laws has been turned into a…</p>
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1807599839326466354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Yes, there are a few improvements in the new laws and we have welcomed them. They could have been introduced as amendments. On the other hand, there are several retrograde provisions. Some changes are prima facie unconstitutional."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-arrests-hizb-ut-tahrir-members-seizes-extremist-materials-in-tamil-nadu-raid-736573">NIA arrests Hizb-ut-Tahrir members, seizes extremist materials in Tamil Nadu raids</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is another case of bulldozing three existing laws and replacing them with three new bills without adequate discussion and debate," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, in a statement, claimed that the three new criminal laws were passed "forcibly" after suspending 146 MPs in the last Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>He asserted that the opposition INDIA bloc will not let the NDA's "bulldozer justice" prevail in the country's parliamentary system.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Opposition INDIA bloc MPs staged a protest in the Parliament premises in New Delhi on Monday (Jul 1) against the alleged misuse of probe agencies by the government to "target" them.

Opposition INDIA bloc MPs staged a protest in the Parliament premises in New Delhi on Monday (Jul 1) against the alleged misuse of probe agencies by the government to "target" them. Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi alongside several leaders of the INDIA bloc, including those from the TMC and AAP, participated in the protest on the steps leading to the Makar Dwar in Parliament. As power reports, they carried placards which read "Stop misusing agencies to silence opposition" and "BJP mein jao bhrashtachar ka licence pao (Join the BJP and get a licence for corruption)". Some AAP leaders also displayed posters of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal standing behind bars. This comes as three new criminal laws replacing British-era laws come into effect in India on Monday. These new laws, as per reports, take into account some current social realities and modern-day crimes. With the opposition slamming the ruling government over what they say is NDA's "bulldozer justice," the second week of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha is expected to see a fiery, chaotic start. India's new criminal laws Named the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), these laws have replaced the British-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively. Also read | Delhi Police ready to implement new criminal laws which come into effect on July 1 Opposition slams NDA-BJP The opposition has slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led NDA Alliance and said that it was another case of "bulldozing" existing laws and that "90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job". In a post on X, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said that "90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job. A task that could have been completed with a few amendments to the existing three laws has been turned into a wasteful exercise." The three criminal laws to replace the IPC, CrPC and Indian Evidence Act come into force today 90-99 per cent of the so-called new laws are a cut, copy and paste job. A task that could have been completed with a few amendments to the existing three laws has been turned into a… — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) July 1, 2024 × "Yes, there are a few improvements in the new laws and we have welcomed them. They could have been introduced as amendments. On the other hand, there are several retrograde provisions. Some changes are prima facie unconstitutional." Also read | NIA arrests Hizb-ut-Tahrir members, seizes extremist materials in Tamil Nadu raids "It is another case of bulldozing three existing laws and replacing them with three new bills without adequate discussion and debate," he added. Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, in a statement, claimed that the three new criminal laws were passed "forcibly" after suspending 146 MPs in the last Lok Sabha. He asserted that the opposition INDIA bloc will not let the NDA's "bulldozer justice" prevail in the country's parliamentary system. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition MPs stage protest outside Parliament, accuse BJP-led NDA of 'misusing' probe agencies

<p>In his debut appearance as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha, Congress MP from Raebareli Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (June 26) congratulated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Om Birla for being re-elected as the Speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament for his second term.</p>

<p>Clad in a white kurta pyjama, Gandhi delivered a sharp message saying that the Lok Sabha Speaker is the final arbiter of the voice of the people, and the Opposition this time represents that voice significantly more than the 17th Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>"I would like to congratulate you for your successful election that you have been elected for the second time. I would like to congratulate you on behalf of the entire Opposition and the INDIA alliance," Gandhi said.</p>

<p>"This House represents the voice of India's people and you are the final arbiter of that voice. The government has political power but the opposition also represents the voice of India's people and this time, the opposition represents significantly more voice of the Indian people than it did last time," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I would like to congratulate the Speaker on behalf of the INDIA Alliance.<br />
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This house represents the voice of India’s people and you are the final arbitrator of the voice.<br />
<br />
Of course, the government has political power but the Opposition also represents the voice of India’s youth… <a href="https://t.co/RXSdjikLXB">pic.twitter.com/RXSdjikLXB</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1805849165949272386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-be-the-leader-of-opposition-in-lok-sabha-735089">Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi to be the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha</a></p>

<p>He further stated that the opposition wants the House to "function well" adding that the cooperation was embedded in trust.</p>

<p>"The opposition would like to assist you in doing your work. We would like the House to function often and well. It is very important that cooperation happens based on trust. It is very important that the voice of the Opposition is allowed to be represented in this House," said Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>"We are confident that by allowing the Opposition to speak, by allowing us to represent the people of India, you will do your duty of defending the Constitution of India. I'd like to once again congratulate you and also all the members of the House who have won their election said the MP from Raebareli," Rahul further said.</p>

<p>Congress on Tuesday (June 25) declared Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, filling a post that was empty for almost a decade.</p>

<p>The development came after a meeting of the floor leaders of the INDIA bloc at Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence.</p>

<p>“Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson (Sonia Gandhi) wrote to Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab, informing him of the decision to appoint Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha,” senior party leader KC Venugopal told reporters after the meeting in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In his debut appearance as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha, Congress MP from Raebareli Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (June 26) congratulated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Om Birla for being re-elected as the Speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament for his second term.

In his debut appearance as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the 18th Lok Sabha, Congress MP from Raebareli Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (June 26) congratulated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Om Birla for being re-elected as the Speaker of the lower house of the Indian Parliament for his second term. Clad in a white kurta pyjama, Gandhi delivered a sharp message saying that the Lok Sabha Speaker is the final arbiter of the voice of the people, and the Opposition this time represents that voice significantly more than the 17th Lok Sabha. "I would like to congratulate you for your successful election that you have been elected for the second time. I would like to congratulate you on behalf of the entire Opposition and the INDIA alliance," Gandhi said. "This House represents the voice of India's people and you are the final arbiter of that voice. The government has political power but the opposition also represents the voice of India's people and this time, the opposition represents significantly more voice of the Indian people than it did last time," he said. I would like to congratulate the Speaker on behalf of the INDIA Alliance. This house represents the voice of India’s people and you are the final arbitrator of the voice. Of course, the government has political power but the Opposition also represents the voice of India’s youth… pic.twitter.com/RXSdjikLXB — Congress (@INCIndia) June 26, 2024 × Also read: Rahul Gandhi to be the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha He further stated that the opposition wants the House to "function well" adding that the cooperation was embedded in trust. "The opposition would like to assist you in doing your work. We would like the House to function often and well. It is very important that cooperation happens based on trust. It is very important that the voice of the Opposition is allowed to be represented in this House," said Rahul Gandhi. "We are confident that by allowing the Opposition to speak, by allowing us to represent the people of India, you will do your duty of defending the Constitution of India. I'd like to once again congratulate you and also all the members of the House who have won their election said the MP from Raebareli," Rahul further said. Congress on Tuesday (June 25) declared Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, filling a post that was empty for almost a decade. The development came after a meeting of the floor leaders of the INDIA bloc at Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence. “Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson (Sonia Gandhi) wrote to Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab, informing him of the decision to appoint Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha,” senior party leader KC Venugopal told reporters after the meeting in New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi's sharp message to Om Birla in debut appearance as LoP; 'Confident you'll defend Constitution'

<p>Recently, purported videos of individuals in disastrously inebriated state have taken the internet by storm, raising concerns on the drug menace in northern India's Punjab.</p>

<p>Taking a swipe at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa alleged that the youth of the state was suffering due to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s greed.</p>

<p>He accused AAP MLAs and MPs of direct involvement in making the drug mafia stronger in Punjab.</p>

<p>Sharing one of the viral videos on his official X account, he came down heavily on the AAP government and Mann.</p>

<p>"This late-night video of Amritsar of a young girl high on drugs shows the failure of the AAP Punjab Government! What have you done to Punjab, CM Bhagwant Mann Ji?" Sirsa questioned.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This late night video of Amritsar of a young girl high under Drugs shows the failure of <a href="https://twitter.com/AAPPunjab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AAPPunjab</a> Govt! What have you done to Punjab, CM <a href="https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhagwantmann</a> Ji?<br />
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You came to power promising elimination of drugs in 3 months but now your own party people are involved in this!<br />
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Drug… <a href="https://t.co/QdIADuRsZS">pic.twitter.com/QdIADuRsZS</a></p>
— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/mssirsa/status/1805177004444258505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You came to power promising elimination of drugs in 3 months but now your own party people are involved in this! Drug Mafia has become stronger with direct involvement of AAP MLAs and MPs… Punjab’s youth is dying due to Bhagwant Mann’s greed," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjabs-aap-minister-sparks-row-after-objectionable-video-of-him-flashing-genitals-to-job-seeker-surfaces-726080">Also read: Punjab minister lands AAP in fresh row after his video of flashing genitals at job seeker surfaces</a></p>

<p>AAP has found itself in hot waters in the recent months after Delhi CM and party supremo Arvind Kejriwal was arrested in connection with the money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam.</p>

<p>Last month, the Enforcement Directorate filed an official dossier with the Union Home Ministry (MHA) where it alleged that AAP received over Rs 7 crore (8,38,994.80 USD) as foreign funding, in violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).</p>

<p>The ED shared the inputs with MHA after it retrieved several emails and documents from the time when a money laundering probe related to drugs was launched against former Punjab AAP MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira along with other political figures.</p>

<p>Notably, the investigation was initiated in 2021 and Khaira was arrested in the case by ED that year. He left AAP and is at present with the Congress party.</p>

<p>The federal probe agency, as per news agency PTI's reports, found out that till now, AAP has received about Rs 7.08 crore as overseas donations.</p>

<p>The ED also alleged that the party has "mis-declared and manipulated" details like the identities and nationalities of the foreign donors.</p>

<p>AAP however refuted the accusations calling them baseless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These are baseless allegations. It is an old case where it has already been proved that no illegal donation has been taken," senior AAP leader Atishi stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Recently, purported videos of individuals in disastrously inebriated state have taken the internet by storm, raising concerns on the drug menace in northern India's Punjab.

Recently, purported videos of individuals in disastrously inebriated state have taken the internet by storm, raising concerns on the drug menace in northern India's Punjab. Taking a swipe at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa alleged that the youth of the state was suffering due to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s greed. He accused AAP MLAs and MPs of direct involvement in making the drug mafia stronger in Punjab. Sharing one of the viral videos on his official X account, he came down heavily on the AAP government and Mann. "This late-night video of Amritsar of a young girl high on drugs shows the failure of the AAP Punjab Government! What have you done to Punjab, CM Bhagwant Mann Ji?" Sirsa questioned. This late night video of Amritsar of a young girl high under Drugs shows the failure of @AAPPunjab Govt! What have you done to Punjab, CM @bhagwantmann Ji? You came to power promising elimination of drugs in 3 months but now your own party people are involved in this! Drug… pic.twitter.com/QdIADuRsZS — Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) June 24, 2024 × "You came to power promising elimination of drugs in 3 months but now your own party people are involved in this! Drug Mafia has become stronger with direct involvement of AAP MLAs and MPs… Punjab’s youth is dying due to Bhagwant Mann’s greed," he added. Also read: Punjab minister lands AAP in fresh row after his video of flashing genitals at job seeker surfaces AAP has found itself in hot waters in the recent months after Delhi CM and party supremo Arvind Kejriwal was arrested in connection with the money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam. Last month, the Enforcement Directorate filed an official dossier with the Union Home Ministry (MHA) where it alleged that AAP received over Rs 7 crore (8,38,994.80 USD) as foreign funding, in violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The ED shared the inputs with MHA after it retrieved several emails and documents from the time when a money laundering probe related to drugs was launched against former Punjab AAP MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira along with other political figures. Notably, the investigation was initiated in 2021 and Khaira was arrested in the case by ED that year. He left AAP and is at present with the Congress party. The federal probe agency, as per news agency PTI's reports, found out that till now, AAP has received about Rs 7.08 crore as overseas donations. The ED also alleged that the party has "mis-declared and manipulated" details like the identities and nationalities of the foreign donors. AAP however refuted the accusations calling them baseless. "These are baseless allegations. It is an old case where it has already been proved that no illegal donation has been taken," senior AAP leader Atishi stated. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP slams Punjab's AAP government as videos showing people under influence of drugs go viral on social media

<p>Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor invited sharp criticism over his social media post where he took a jibe at the north-Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (UP) amid the NEET paper leak controversy.</p>

<p>Tharoor on Saturday night (June 22) shared a viral post depicting a Q&amp;A referring to UP.</p>

<p>The question read, "Uttar Pradesh kise kehte hain? (Define Uttar Pradesh)."</p>

<p>"A state where uttar (referring to answers) are known before the exam," read the answer.</p>

<p>The Congress leader captioned the post as, "shandaar" (Fabulous) and added the hashtag "Pariksha pe charcha" (Discussion on examination), taking a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative to interact with students during exams.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">शानदार! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B7%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#परीक्षापेचार्चा</a> <a href="https://t.co/xXK8q54FWl">pic.twitter.com/xXK8q54FWl</a></p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1804606384371310653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-fir-in-connection-with-alleged-irregularities-in-neet-ug-exam-734341">CBI files FIR in connection with alleged irregularities in NEET-UG exam</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tharoor's post draws flak from BJP</strong></h2>

<p>Soon after Tharoor made the comment, the BJP leaders slammed Tharoor for stereotyping the state and insulting the people of UP.</p>

<p>Union minister Jitin Prasada, responding to the post said, "I don't see the humour in running down my state and its people by stereotyping them with such condemnable remarks. Such an insult to UP is deplorable and must be condemned in strongest words."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I don’t see the humour in running down my state and its people by stereotyping them with such condemnable remarks. Such an insult to UP is deplorable and must be condemned in strongest words.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/uttarpradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uttarpradesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/68tYuLFUFQ">https://t.co/68tYuLFUFQ</a></p>
— Jitin Prasada जितिन प्रसाद (@JitinPrasada) <a href="https://twitter.com/JitinPrasada/status/1804796238510031242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who lost the Thiruvananthapuram constituency to Tharoor in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls 2024, said, "Shameless crass politics of shaming other fellow Indians - that's the Congress way, ably demonstrated by this self-titled Global citizen. It was just a few months ago, another of Cong 'global citizens' Pitroda described Indians as Africans, Chinese, Middle Eastern, etc., Runs deep in the Cong DNA, this type of superiority complex."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shameless crass politics of shaming other fellow Indians - thats the Congress way, ably demonstrated by this self-titled Global citizen.🤬🤮<br />
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It was just a few months ago, another of Cong "global citizens" Pitroda described Indians as Africans, Chinese, Middle eastern etc<br />
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Runs… <a href="https://t.co/YLsZ5U1zb5">https://t.co/YLsZ5U1zb5</a></p>
— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@RajeevRC_X) <a href="https://twitter.com/RajeevRC_X/status/1804815952456077315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calling Tharoor a "repeat offender", BJP's national spokesperson CR Kesavan said, "Earlier, Shashi Tharoor gravely insulted our North East brothers and sisters by ridiculing their traditional attire as outlandish. To belittle a serious issue, implying that the state of UP is a state of cheaters is indefensible and unpardonable. Splattering fancy English words does not necessarily make one civil and dignified."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shashi Tharoor is a repeat offender who had earlier gravely insulted our North East brothers and sisters by ridiculing their traditional attire as outlandish. To belittle a serious issue, implying that the state of UP is a state of cheaters is indefensible and unpardonable.… <a href="https://t.co/4Odbeuml0P">https://t.co/4Odbeuml0P</a></p>
— C.R.Kesavan (@crkesavan) <a href="https://twitter.com/crkesavan/status/1804808960329060830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said, "Shashi, you having to resort to frivolity!! And in doing so condemning people of an entire state? You don't see UP as yours, since you are deriding it. How I see Kerala is it's my state, it's my people. Bright, young, dynamic Keralites have served with me in the Army and rubbed shoulders with me in Team India."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shashi, you having to resort to frivolity!! And in doing so condemning people of an entire state? You don’t see UP as yours, since you are deriding it.<br />
How I see Kerala is it’s my state, it’s my people. Bright, young, dynamic Keralites have served with me in the Army and rubbed… <a href="https://t.co/i7AxfPz7cb">https://t.co/i7AxfPz7cb</a></p>
— Col Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ra_THORe/status/1804801158327972344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded to his post by saying, "This gentleman frequently indulges in satirising various cultures (first Northeast and now UP) with remarkably caustic words. He has succumbed to the beguiling whispers of lunacy, his mind adrift in the ethereal mists of derangement."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This gentleman frequently indulges in satirizing various cultures (first Northeast and now UP) with remarkably caustic words.<br />
<br />
He has succumbed to the beguiling whispers of lunacy, his mind adrift in the ethereal mists of derangement. <a href="https://t.co/aGuUU61bAy">https://t.co/aGuUU61bAy</a></p>
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) <a href="https://twitter.com/himantabiswa/status/1804829676579299761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor invited sharp criticism over his social media post where he took a jibe at the north-Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (UP) amid the NEET paper leak controversy.

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor invited sharp criticism over his social media post where he took a jibe at the north-Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (UP) amid the NEET paper leak controversy. Tharoor on Saturday night (June 22) shared a viral post depicting a Q&A referring to UP. The question read, "Uttar Pradesh kise kehte hain? (Define Uttar Pradesh)." "A state where uttar (referring to answers) are known before the exam," read the answer. The Congress leader captioned the post as, "shandaar" (Fabulous) and added the hashtag "Pariksha pe charcha" (Discussion on examination), taking a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative to interact with students during exams. शानदार! #परीक्षापेचार्चा pic.twitter.com/xXK8q54FWl — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) June 22, 2024 × Also read: CBI files FIR in connection with alleged irregularities in NEET-UG exam Tharoor's post draws flak from BJP Soon after Tharoor made the comment, the BJP leaders slammed Tharoor for stereotyping the state and insulting the people of UP. Union minister Jitin Prasada, responding to the post said, "I don't see the humour in running down my state and its people by stereotyping them with such condemnable remarks. Such an insult to UP is deplorable and must be condemned in strongest words." I don’t see the humour in running down my state and its people by stereotyping them with such condemnable remarks. Such an insult to UP is deplorable and must be condemned in strongest words.#uttarpradesh https://t.co/68tYuLFUFQ — Jitin Prasada जितिन प्रसाद (@JitinPrasada) June 23, 2024 × Former Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who lost the Thiruvananthapuram constituency to Tharoor in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls 2024, said, "Shameless crass politics of shaming other fellow Indians - that's the Congress way, ably demonstrated by this self-titled Global citizen. It was just a few months ago, another of Cong 'global citizens' Pitroda described Indians as Africans, Chinese, Middle Eastern, etc., Runs deep in the Cong DNA, this type of superiority complex." Shameless crass politics of shaming other fellow Indians - thats the Congress way, ably demonstrated by this self-titled Global citizen.🤬🤮 It was just a few months ago, another of Cong "global citizens" Pitroda described Indians as Africans, Chinese, Middle eastern etc Runs… https://t.co/YLsZ5U1zb5 — Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@RajeevRC_X) June 23, 2024 × Calling Tharoor a "repeat offender", BJP's national spokesperson CR Kesavan said, "Earlier, Shashi Tharoor gravely insulted our North East brothers and sisters by ridiculing their traditional attire as outlandish. To belittle a serious issue, implying that the state of UP is a state of cheaters is indefensible and unpardonable. Splattering fancy English words does not necessarily make one civil and dignified." Shashi Tharoor is a repeat offender who had earlier gravely insulted our North East brothers and sisters by ridiculing their traditional attire as outlandish. To belittle a serious issue, implying that the state of UP is a state of cheaters is indefensible and unpardonable.… https://t.co/4Odbeuml0P — C.R.Kesavan (@crkesavan) June 23, 2024 × Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said, "Shashi, you having to resort to frivolity!! And in doing so condemning people of an entire state? You don't see UP as yours, since you are deriding it. How I see Kerala is it's my state, it's my people. Bright, young, dynamic Keralites have served with me in the Army and rubbed shoulders with me in Team India." Shashi, you having to resort to frivolity!! And in doing so condemning people of an entire state? You don’t see UP as yours, since you are deriding it. How I see Kerala is it’s my state, it’s my people. Bright, young, dynamic Keralites have served with me in the Army and rubbed… https://t.co/i7AxfPz7cb — Col Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) June 23, 2024 × Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded to his post by saying, "This gentleman frequently indulges in satirising various cultures (first Northeast and now UP) with remarkably caustic words. He has succumbed to the beguiling whispers of lunacy, his mind adrift in the ethereal mists of derangement." This gentleman frequently indulges in satirizing various cultures (first Northeast and now UP) with remarkably caustic words. He has succumbed to the beguiling whispers of lunacy, his mind adrift in the ethereal mists of derangement. https://t.co/aGuUU61bAy — Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 23, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

India: Shashi Tharoor's viral post on UP amid NEET controversy draws flak from BJP

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor Uma Anandan, in a dramatic turn of events, stormed out of a Chennai Corporation council meeting after strongly objecting to a report by Justice K Chandru.</p>

<p>Anandan, who is known for her vocal support for Hindus&nbsp;publicly, tore apart the report, which was labeled by former Tamil Nadu BJP president H Raja as “anti-Hindu”.</p>

<p>The incident occurred on June 24, 2024, during the first council meeting held after the recent Indian general elections.</p>

<p>Anandan, the lone BJP representative on the 200-member Chennai Corporation, took issue with the contents of the report presented by Justice Chandru, stood up and began tearing pages from the report.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-president-kharge-hits-back-at-pm-modi-over-his-emergency-black-spot-on-democracy-remark-734678">Congress president Kharge hits back at PM Modi over his 'Emergency black spot on democracy' remark</a></p>

<p>She then walked out of the meeting, making a bold statement against what she perceived as an unfair and biased assessment.</p>

<p>“Why do we need to talk about this at this time? At this time, why are you singing praises to Udhayanidhi Stalin? Chief Minister is ok, but why should you sing praises to Udhayanidhi?”</p>

<p>She added, "Justice Chandru should have spoken about this. A biased statement, a biased judge has issued a statement. The &nbsp;Chennai City Council should condemn Justice Chandru’s statement. They did not condemn. Thus I tore up the judge’s report.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-srinagar-recognised-as-world-craft-city-for-its-rich-artisan-heritage-734683">India: Srinagar recognised as 'World Craft City' for its rich artisan heritage</a></p>

<p>This confrontation is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Anandan, who has a history of making&nbsp;remarks on sensitive issues. In the past, she has faced criticism for endorsing Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi and for supporting the caste system.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/parliament-session-begins-pm-modi-other-mps-to-take-oath-whats-on-agenda-734672">Parliament Session begins: PM Modi, other MPs to take oath; what's on agenda?</a></strong></p>

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<p>Justice Chandru's report recommended prohibiting students from wearing caste identifiers like coloured wristbands, rings or forehead marks and from riding bicycles painted with caste references.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report came in the wake of a caste-based attack on Dalit students and Justice K Chandru submitted it to Chief Minister MK Stalin while presenting a comprehensive set of recommendations to address the persistent issue of caste-based discrimination and violence in Tamil Nadu's schools.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor Uma Anandan, in a dramatic turn of events, stormed out of a Chennai Corporation council meeting after strongly objecting to a report by Justice K Chandru.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor Uma Anandan, in a dramatic turn of events, stormed out of a Chennai Corporation council meeting after strongly objecting to a report by Justice K Chandru. Anandan, who is known for her vocal support for Hindus publicly, tore apart the report, which was labeled by former Tamil Nadu BJP president H Raja as “anti-Hindu”. The incident occurred on June 24, 2024, during the first council meeting held after the recent Indian general elections. Anandan, the lone BJP representative on the 200-member Chennai Corporation, took issue with the contents of the report presented by Justice Chandru, stood up and began tearing pages from the report. Also Read | Congress president Kharge hits back at PM Modi over his 'Emergency black spot on democracy' remark She then walked out of the meeting, making a bold statement against what she perceived as an unfair and biased assessment. “Why do we need to talk about this at this time? At this time, why are you singing praises to Udhayanidhi Stalin? Chief Minister is ok, but why should you sing praises to Udhayanidhi?” She added, "Justice Chandru should have spoken about this. A biased statement, a biased judge has issued a statement. The Chennai City Council should condemn Justice Chandru’s statement. They did not condemn. Thus I tore up the judge’s report.” Also Read | India: Srinagar recognised as 'World Craft City' for its rich artisan heritage This confrontation is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Anandan, who has a history of making remarks on sensitive issues. In the past, she has faced criticism for endorsing Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi and for supporting the caste system. Watch | Parliament Session begins: PM Modi, other MPs to take oath; what's on agenda? × Justice Chandru's report recommended prohibiting students from wearing caste identifiers like coloured wristbands, rings or forehead marks and from riding bicycles painted with caste references. The report came in the wake of a caste-based attack on Dalit students and Justice K Chandru submitted it to Chief Minister MK Stalin while presenting a comprehensive set of recommendations to address the persistent issue of caste-based discrimination and violence in Tamil Nadu's schools. (With inputs from agencies)

Chennai BJP Councillor Uma Anandan storms out of meeting over 'anti-Hindu' report by Justice Chandru

<p>Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday (June 24) hit out at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not speaking on issues like protests surrounding NEET, Manipur violence and the West Bengal train accident during his pre-Parliament address.</p>

<p>He sharply criticised the centre for talking about the Emergency that was brought over five decades ago questioning the government's intent on the number of times they wish to bring this up further.</p>

<p>"PM Modi will repeat this 100 times. Without declaring an emergency, you are acting this way. How long do you plan to rule by bringing this up?" Kharge said.</p>

<p>He said that PM Modi had used "customary words" more than what was necessary, rather than speaking on issues that were relevant.</p>

<p>Kharge also took to his X account to write, "He will show some sympathy towards youth regarding the paper leak in NEET and other entrance exams, but he will not take any responsibility for the rigging and corruption of his government."</p>

<p>"Modi ji also remained silent about the recent train accident in West Bengal. Manipur has been in the grip of violence for the last 13 months, but Modiji neither went there nor did he express any concern about the recent violence in his speech today," his post further read.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi made a longer than usual customary address today. Clearly, even after moral and political defeat, the arrogance remains !<br />
<br />
The nation was hoping that Modi ji would say something on many important issues.<br />
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🔹He will show some sympathy towards the youth regarding the paper… <a href="https://t.co/GvdLOGCXCy">pic.twitter.com/GvdLOGCXCy</a></p>
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1805129064216219913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the post, he also made a mention of the situation of floods in Assam.</p>

<p>"There are floods in Assam and the North-East, backbreaking inflation, falling rupee, Exit Poll-Stock Market scam; The Modi government has kept the next census pending for a long time; Modi ji was completely silent on the caste census as well," Kharge highlighted.</p>

<p>Further lashing out at the Indian prime minister, Kharge said that PM Modi was reminding people of the 50-year-old Emergency but forgot the "last 10 years of Undeclared Emergency" which he said was ended by the people of the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-calls-for-consensus-ahead-of-inaugural-session-of-18th-lok-sabha-734625">PM Modi calls for 'consensus' ahead of inaugural session of 18th Lok Sabha</a></p>

<p>"You are reminding us of the 50-year-old Emergency, but have forgotten the last 10 years of Undeclared Emergency, which was ended by the people," the Congress president said.</p>

<p>"People have given their mandate against Modi ji. Despite this, if he has become the Prime Minister, then he should work," he added.</p>

<p>"The opposition and INDIA Janbandhan want Consensus in Parliament, we will keep raising the voice of the people in the House, on the streets and before everyone," Kharge further said in his social media post.</p>

<p>The Congress president's remarks came after PM Modi took an indirect jibe at the grand old party stating, "Tomorrow is 25th June. 25th June marks 50 years of the blot that was put on the democracy of India. The new generation of India will never forget that the Constitution of India was completely rejected, every part of the Constitution was torn to pieces, the country was turned into a prison, democracy was completely suppressed."</p>

<p>"While protecting our Constitution, while protecting the democracy of India, the democratic traditions, the countrymen will take a resolution that no one will dare to do such a thing in India again which was done 50 years ago. We will take a resolution of a vibrant democracy. We will take a resolution to fulfil the dreams of the common people as per the directions of the Constitution of India," PM Modi&nbsp;added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday (June 24) hit out at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not speaking on issues like protests surrounding NEET, Manipur violence and the West Bengal train accident during his pre-Parliament address.

Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday (June 24) hit out at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not speaking on issues like protests surrounding NEET, Manipur violence and the West Bengal train accident during his pre-Parliament address. He sharply criticised the centre for talking about the Emergency that was brought over five decades ago questioning the government's intent on the number of times they wish to bring this up further. "PM Modi will repeat this 100 times. Without declaring an emergency, you are acting this way. How long do you plan to rule by bringing this up?" Kharge said. He said that PM Modi had used "customary words" more than what was necessary, rather than speaking on issues that were relevant. Kharge also took to his X account to write, "He will show some sympathy towards youth regarding the paper leak in NEET and other entrance exams, but he will not take any responsibility for the rigging and corruption of his government." "Modi ji also remained silent about the recent train accident in West Bengal. Manipur has been in the grip of violence for the last 13 months, but Modiji neither went there nor did he express any concern about the recent violence in his speech today," his post further read. PM Modi made a longer than usual customary address today. Clearly, even after moral and political defeat, the arrogance remains ! The nation was hoping that Modi ji would say something on many important issues. 🔹He will show some sympathy towards the youth regarding the paper… pic.twitter.com/GvdLOGCXCy — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) June 24, 2024 × In the post, he also made a mention of the situation of floods in Assam. "There are floods in Assam and the North-East, backbreaking inflation, falling rupee, Exit Poll-Stock Market scam; The Modi government has kept the next census pending for a long time; Modi ji was completely silent on the caste census as well," Kharge highlighted. Further lashing out at the Indian prime minister, Kharge said that PM Modi was reminding people of the 50-year-old Emergency but forgot the "last 10 years of Undeclared Emergency" which he said was ended by the people of the country. Also read: PM Modi calls for 'consensus' ahead of inaugural session of 18th Lok Sabha "You are reminding us of the 50-year-old Emergency, but have forgotten the last 10 years of Undeclared Emergency, which was ended by the people," the Congress president said. "People have given their mandate against Modi ji. Despite this, if he has become the Prime Minister, then he should work," he added. "The opposition and INDIA Janbandhan want Consensus in Parliament, we will keep raising the voice of the people in the House, on the streets and before everyone," Kharge further said in his social media post. The Congress president's remarks came after PM Modi took an indirect jibe at the grand old party stating, "Tomorrow is 25th June. 25th June marks 50 years of the blot that was put on the democracy of India. The new generation of India will never forget that the Constitution of India was completely rejected, every part of the Constitution was torn to pieces, the country was turned into a prison, democracy was completely suppressed." "While protecting our Constitution, while protecting the democracy of India, the democratic traditions, the countrymen will take a resolution that no one will dare to do such a thing in India again which was done 50 years ago. We will take a resolution of a vibrant democracy. We will take a resolution to fulfil the dreams of the common people as per the directions of the Constitution of India," PM Modi added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress president Kharge hits back at PM Modi over his 'Emergency black spot on democracy' remark

<p>Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Virendra Sachdeva on Wednesday (June 19) hit out at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for "stealing and looting people," alleging that the government's free water scheme had proved to be a "sham".</p>

<p>He then said that at the time the party got the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), it was in profit of Rs 600 crores but now it is in loss of Rs 73,000 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ministers, MLAs, DJB are all under the AAP-led government. They have been stealing and looting the people of Delhi for the last 10 years. When they got DJB, it was a profit of Rs 600 crore and now it is in a loss of Rs 73,000 crore. Atishi must answer this," Sachdeva told news agency PTI.</p>

<p>“People are craving for every drop of water. Women spent nights waiting for water tankers while children in many areas are not able to take a bath for days due to scarcity,” he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Delhi water crisis: "Ministers, MLAs, DJB are all under the AAP-led government. They have been stealing and looting people of Delhi from the last 10 years. When they got DJB, it was in profit of Rs 600 crore and now it is in loss of Rs 73,000 crore. Atishi must answer… <a href="https://t.co/aFiAZbwl8T">pic.twitter.com/aFiAZbwl8T</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1803342989613314096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>His remarks came as BJP leaders took to the streets of the national capital to protest against the ongoing water crisis.</p>

<p>Sachdeva took part in the protest at Andrews Ganj, where New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj accompanied him.</p>

<p>Several other BJP MPs, MLAs and office-bearers led the protest marches in multiple municipal wards across the country.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> दिल्ली भाजपा अध्यक्ष वीरेंद्र सचदेवा ने कहा, "हमारा प्रदर्शन पानी को लेकर है। दिल्ली की जनता एक-एक बूंद के लिए तरस रही है और AAP के विधायक-मंत्री पानी बेचने का काम कर रहे हैं... अगर ये चोरी और कालाबाजारी बंद हो जाए तो दिल्ली को पानी मिल सकता है..." <a href="https://t.co/BwJM03ZBLj">https://t.co/BwJM03ZBLj</a> <a href="https://t.co/4NuabyYpbA">pic.twitter.com/4NuabyYpbA</a></p>
— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) <a href="https://twitter.com/AHindinews/status/1803330298203009201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-tells-sc-it-doesnt-have-surplus-water-court-asks-delhi-govt-to-approach-yamuna-board-731462">Also read: Delhi water crisis: Himachal Pradesh takes U-turn, tells SC it doesn't have surplus water for national capital</a></p>

<h2><strong>'If Delhi does not get its water share by June 21, will go on Satyagraha,' says Atishi</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, AAP Minister Atishi on Wednesday issued a warning stating that if Delhi does not get its water share by Friday (June 21), she will be forced to do a 'Satyagraha'.</p>

<p>"Today I have written a letter to the Prime Minister saying that 28 lakh people in Delhi are not getting water. I have requested that he should help provide water as soon as possible...If the people of Delhi do not get their rightful share of water by the 21st, then I will be forced to do a Satyagraha," Atishi said in a press conference.</p>

<p>"Due to the scorching heat, the water problem in Delhi has also increased. Today, Delhiites need more water. The total supply of water in Delhi is 1050 MGD, out of which 613 MGD water comes from Haryana but Haryana is not giving the full share of water to Delhi," she alleged further.</p>

<p>The AAP leader further alleged that because Haryana gave only 513 MGD of water to Delhi on Tuesday (June 18), nearly 2.8 million people were getting less water in the national capital.</p>

<p>"Haryana gave only 513 MGD of water to Delhi yesterday. Due to this, Delhi is short of 100 MGD of water today. Due to this, about 28 lakh people are getting less water. The people of Delhi are troubled. We have made all efforts to solve this problem. We have spoken to the Chief Minister of Haryana, but the BJP government of Haryana is not giving Delhi its share of water," Atishi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Virendra Sachdeva on Wednesday (June 19) hit out at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for "stealing and looting people," alleging that the government's free water scheme had proved to be a "sham".

Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Virendra Sachdeva on Wednesday (June 19) hit out at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for "stealing and looting people," alleging that the government's free water scheme had proved to be a "sham". He then said that at the time the party got the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), it was in profit of Rs 600 crores but now it is in loss of Rs 73,000 crore. "Ministers, MLAs, DJB are all under the AAP-led government. They have been stealing and looting the people of Delhi for the last 10 years. When they got DJB, it was a profit of Rs 600 crore and now it is in a loss of Rs 73,000 crore. Atishi must answer this," Sachdeva told news agency PTI. “People are craving for every drop of water. Women spent nights waiting for water tankers while children in many areas are not able to take a bath for days due to scarcity,” he added. VIDEO | Delhi water crisis: "Ministers, MLAs, DJB are all under the AAP-led government. They have been stealing and looting people of Delhi from the last 10 years. When they got DJB, it was in profit of Rs 600 crore and now it is in loss of Rs 73,000 crore. Atishi must answer… pic.twitter.com/aFiAZbwl8T — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2024 × His remarks came as BJP leaders took to the streets of the national capital to protest against the ongoing water crisis. Sachdeva took part in the protest at Andrews Ganj, where New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj accompanied him. Several other BJP MPs, MLAs and office-bearers led the protest marches in multiple municipal wards across the country. #WATCH दिल्ली भाजपा अध्यक्ष वीरेंद्र सचदेवा ने कहा, "हमारा प्रदर्शन पानी को लेकर है। दिल्ली की जनता एक-एक बूंद के लिए तरस रही है और AAP के विधायक-मंत्री पानी बेचने का काम कर रहे हैं... अगर ये चोरी और कालाबाजारी बंद हो जाए तो दिल्ली को पानी मिल सकता है..." https://t.co/BwJM03ZBLj pic.twitter.com/4NuabyYpbA — ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) June 19, 2024 × Also read: Delhi water crisis: Himachal Pradesh takes U-turn, tells SC it doesn't have surplus water for national capital 'If Delhi does not get its water share by June 21, will go on Satyagraha,' says Atishi Meanwhile, AAP Minister Atishi on Wednesday issued a warning stating that if Delhi does not get its water share by Friday (June 21), she will be forced to do a 'Satyagraha'. "Today I have written a letter to the Prime Minister saying that 28 lakh people in Delhi are not getting water. I have requested that he should help provide water as soon as possible...If the people of Delhi do not get their rightful share of water by the 21st, then I will be forced to do a Satyagraha," Atishi said in a press conference. "Due to the scorching heat, the water problem in Delhi has also increased. Today, Delhiites need more water. The total supply of water in Delhi is 1050 MGD, out of which 613 MGD water comes from Haryana but Haryana is not giving the full share of water to Delhi," she alleged further. The AAP leader further alleged that because Haryana gave only 513 MGD of water to Delhi on Tuesday (June 18), nearly 2.8 million people were getting less water in the national capital. "Haryana gave only 513 MGD of water to Delhi yesterday. Due to this, Delhi is short of 100 MGD of water today. Due to this, about 28 lakh people are getting less water. The people of Delhi are troubled. We have made all efforts to solve this problem. We have spoken to the Chief Minister of Haryana, but the BJP government of Haryana is not giving Delhi its share of water," Atishi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi water crisis: BJP leaders stage protest, accuse AAP govt of 'stealing and looting people'

The nascent alliance between HD Kumaraswamy's JD(S) and the BJP is showing signs of strain early on, primarily over economic policies and subsidy allocation.

Coalition friction? : JD (S) in focus

Narendra Modi is back as Prime Minister of India but this time his victory is vastly different from his last two terms. Heavily dependent on the BJP's allies for policy formation, this time BJP coalition government will also face a strong opposition.

Will allies constrain modi govt 3.0?

From Sheikh Hasina to Mohd Muizzu, 5 south Asian leaders attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new govt, reaffirming India's SAGAR policy But as coalition partners take centre stage, will the BJP's own agenda take a back seat, amid coalition compulsions? And just after the new govt takes shape, J&K is struck by a string of deadly terror attacks, we detail the govt's counter move... All this and a lot more on ISA

Modi 3.0 begins with 'neighbourhood first' in focus | J&K struck by terror

<p>The Congress on Friday (June&nbsp;14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests. The statue of Gandhi was often the backdrop for several opposition protests in the past.</p>

<p>Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared on X a circular issued by the Lok Sabha secretariat stating that a ceremony will take place on Sunday at 6:30 PM in the Parliament House Estate to inaugurate the newly-created ‘Prerna Sthal’.</p>

<p>In the statement, the Lok Sabha Secretariat had said last week that due to the location of statues at different places in the Parliament premises, visitors were not able to view them conveniently.</p>

<p>“For this reason, all these statues are being respectfully installed in a grand ‘Prerna Sthal’ in Parliament House premises," it said.</p>

<p>This ‘Prerna Sthal’ is being developed in such a way that those coming to visit the Parliament complex view the statues of these great persons conveniently and get inspired by their life experiences, the statement said.</p>

<p>In his post tagging the circular, Ramesh said on Friday, “The whole idea of this relocation and giving it a grandiose name is to ensure that the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Ambedkar are not in a prominent place right in front of Parliament House where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests as and when required – and with the Modi regime they are required very frequently, almost on a daily basis.”</p>

<p>The Congress had last week also alleged that the statues have been relocated within Parliament premises to ensure that Opposition parties cannot hold democratic protests, and said such “stunts” cannot save Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “unstable government” from falling.</p>


The Congress on Friday (June 14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests.

The Congress on Friday (June 14) claimed that the idea behind relocating statues of Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar and Chhatrapati Shivaji among others within Parliament premises is to ensure that they are not in a prominent place where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests. The statue of Gandhi was often the backdrop for several opposition protests in the past. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared on X a circular issued by the Lok Sabha secretariat stating that a ceremony will take place on Sunday at 6:30 PM in the Parliament House Estate to inaugurate the newly-created ‘Prerna Sthal’. In the statement, the Lok Sabha Secretariat had said last week that due to the location of statues at different places in the Parliament premises, visitors were not able to view them conveniently. “For this reason, all these statues are being respectfully installed in a grand ‘Prerna Sthal’ in Parliament House premises," it said. This ‘Prerna Sthal’ is being developed in such a way that those coming to visit the Parliament complex view the statues of these great persons conveniently and get inspired by their life experiences, the statement said. In his post tagging the circular, Ramesh said on Friday, “The whole idea of this relocation and giving it a grandiose name is to ensure that the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Ambedkar are not in a prominent place right in front of Parliament House where MPs could conduct peaceful and democratic protests as and when required – and with the Modi regime they are required very frequently, almost on a daily basis.” The Congress had last week also alleged that the statues have been relocated within Parliament premises to ensure that Opposition parties cannot hold democratic protests, and said such “stunts” cannot save Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “unstable government” from falling.

Parliament statues relocated to ensure they are not in prominent place for MPs to protest: Congress

<p>‘I’ am a tax payer, my tax is for country's development, not for free distribution’. This response is once again trending on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before elections, most political parties&nbsp;promise&nbsp;some freebees or services in their manifestos. And when any party comes to power, it has to spend billions of rupees on these free schemes to fulfill its election promises.</p>

<p>Do you know that this money comes from taxpayers, and not from the funds of any political party? Since NDA returned to power for a third consecutive term, taxpayers have been&nbsp;expressing&nbsp;displeasure on social media over&nbsp;the promises of several free schemes made by the NDA government&nbsp;which will be paid through the tax-payers money.</p>

<p>Notably, two major allies of the NDA are the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United). Before the elections, these parties also released their manifestos promising several free schemes, which will cost millions of rupees annually to implement.</p>

<p>However this year before the elections, the NDA issued a joint manifesto, announcing several free schemes.</p>

<p>BJP announced that it would continue the free ration scheme for the next five years, which was initiated in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with expanding the coverage of free treatment up to ₹5 lakhs under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, they also promised to provide medicines at an 80% discount at Jan Aushadhi centers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, every senior citizen above the age of 70, whether poor, middle-class, or upper-middle-class, will be entitled to free treatment up to ₹5 lakhs.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s Free in NDA’s Manifesto in Andhra Pradesh?</strong></h2>

<p>The TDP, Jana Sena, and BJP alliance promised a monthly financial assistance of ₹3,000 to unemployed youth. NDA named its manifesto 'Praja Galam.'</p>

<p>TDP's announcement includes promises such as free bus travel for women, three free cooking gas cylinders per year for every household, and ₹15,000 annually for every school-going child.</p>

<h2><strong>What Do Experts Say About Free Schemes?</strong></h2>

<p>Manish Khemka, Chairman of the Global Taxpayers Trust, says, “like every time, this Lok Sabha election also made it clear that freebies are now becoming a national disease or even a pandemic. This is the biggest corruption in democracy that needs to be stopped immediately. Over time, political parties have also changed the way they announce freebies. Earlier, candidates would try to win elections by distributing money and liquor from their pockets. Nowadays, political parties attempt to gain power by using hardworking taxpayers' money.</p>

<p>Parties formally announce various freebies in their manifestos to lure voters.”</p>

<p>“If government expenditure aligns with resources and boosts productivity by supporting the poor, it is acceptable; otherwise, freebies should be strictly prohibited,” he added.</p>

<p>Former Finance Secretary of India, Subhash Chandra Garg, says, “Broadly, 50% of the central government’s budget is funded by taxpayers, and the remaining 50% comes from non-tax revenue. It is incorrect to say that taxpayers bear all the expenses. We need to understand the system of public finance.”</p>

<p>“Taxpayers also have the misconception that most of their money goes towards freebies. Taxpayers fund only 50% of the Government of India's budget. Therefore, the budget for free schemes does not exceed 15-20%. Public finance never categorises it this way. Hence, such campaigns are not correct,” said Garg.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


‘I’ am a tax payer, my tax is for country's development, not for free distribution’. This response is once again trending on social media. Before elections, most political parties promise some freebees or services in their manifestos.

‘I’ am a tax payer, my tax is for country's development, not for free distribution’. This response is once again trending on social media. Before elections, most political parties promise some freebees or services in their manifestos. And when any party comes to power, it has to spend billions of rupees on these free schemes to fulfill its election promises. Do you know that this money comes from taxpayers, and not from the funds of any political party? Since NDA returned to power for a third consecutive term, taxpayers have been expressing displeasure on social media over the promises of several free schemes made by the NDA government which will be paid through the tax-payers money. Notably, two major allies of the NDA are the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United). Before the elections, these parties also released their manifestos promising several free schemes, which will cost millions of rupees annually to implement. However this year before the elections, the NDA issued a joint manifesto, announcing several free schemes. BJP announced that it would continue the free ration scheme for the next five years, which was initiated in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with expanding the coverage of free treatment up to ₹5 lakhs under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, they also promised to provide medicines at an 80% discount at Jan Aushadhi centers. Additionally, every senior citizen above the age of 70, whether poor, middle-class, or upper-middle-class, will be entitled to free treatment up to ₹5 lakhs. What’s Free in NDA’s Manifesto in Andhra Pradesh? The TDP, Jana Sena, and BJP alliance promised a monthly financial assistance of ₹3,000 to unemployed youth. NDA named its manifesto 'Praja Galam.' TDP's announcement includes promises such as free bus travel for women, three free cooking gas cylinders per year for every household, and ₹15,000 annually for every school-going child. What Do Experts Say About Free Schemes? Manish Khemka, Chairman of the Global Taxpayers Trust, says, “like every time, this Lok Sabha election also made it clear that freebies are now becoming a national disease or even a pandemic. This is the biggest corruption in democracy that needs to be stopped immediately. Over time, political parties have also changed the way they announce freebies. Earlier, candidates would try to win elections by distributing money and liquor from their pockets. Nowadays, political parties attempt to gain power by using hardworking taxpayers' money. Parties formally announce various freebies in their manifestos to lure voters.” “If government expenditure aligns with resources and boosts productivity by supporting the poor, it is acceptable; otherwise, freebies should be strictly prohibited,” he added. Former Finance Secretary of India, Subhash Chandra Garg, says, “Broadly, 50% of the central government’s budget is funded by taxpayers, and the remaining 50% comes from non-tax revenue. It is incorrect to say that taxpayers bear all the expenses. We need to understand the system of public finance.” “Taxpayers also have the misconception that most of their money goes towards freebies. Taxpayers fund only 50% of the Government of India's budget. Therefore, the budget for free schemes does not exceed 15-20%. Public finance never categorises it this way. Hence, such campaigns are not correct,” said Garg. (With inputs from agencies)

'My tax is for country's development, not for free distribution': Why is this trending on social media?

Mohan Charan Majhi was sworn in as the Odisha's new Chief Minister yesterday. He chaired his first Cabinet meeting and approved a proposal to re-open all four gates of Shree Jagannath Temple. Watch this video for all details.

New BJP government in Odisha opens all four gates of Puri Jagannath temple

Mohan Charan Manjhi was sworn in as the Odisha's new Chief Minister yesterday. He chaired his first Cabinet meeting and approved a proposal to re-open all four gates of Shree Jagannath Temple. Watch this video for all details.

BJP government in Odisha opens all 4 gates of Puri Jagannath temple

After taking office as leader of a coalition administration yesterday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting his first cabinet meeting at his Delhi home.

Modi 3.0: Eye on Indian budget after cabinet berth allocated

Days after the Lok Sabha elections concluded, leaders across political parties have subsequently begun travelling to their respective constituencies to thank the voters and Party workers.

From Rahul, Priyanka in Rae Bareli to Modi in Varanasi

<p>BJP's Amit Malviya has filed a Rs 10 crore (100 million)&nbsp;defamation suit as retaliation for&nbsp;RSS activist Shantanu Sinha's allegations of Malviya's alleged involvement in sexual exploitation of women.</p>

<p>“[T]he nature of allegations are extremely offensive in as much as, they falsely allege sexual misconduct purportedly committed by my client. The same is fatally injurious to the dignity and reputation of my client who, by virtue of his professional profile, is a public figure. Such malevolently malicious statements have been deliberately made to tarnish his reputation,” the legal&nbsp;notice sent by Malviya reads.</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Congress has called for Malviya's "immediate removal" from the position and an "independent probe"&nbsp;into the matter.</p>

<p>It further accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of providing "political patronage to the perpetrators of crime."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congresswoman Supriya Shrinate revealed during a news conference that Malviya was accused by some RSS members of engaging in "nefarious activities",&nbsp;including "sexual exploitation of women not only in 5-star hotels but also in BJP offices in Bengal."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/suresh-gopi-dismisses-reports-of-wanting-to-quit-ministerial-post-for-films-730487">Suresh Gopi dismisses reports of wanting to quit ministerial post for films</a></strong></p>

<p>"It has come to light by members of the RSS who are on record -- a gentleman by the name of Shantanu Sinha related to Rahul Sinha, an office bearer of the BJP in Bengal has alleged that Amit Malviya, the head of BJP IT Cell has indulged in nefarious activities, he has indulged in sexual exploitation of women not only in 5-star hotels but also in BJP offices in Bengal," Shrinate said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shrinate added, "If you remember the IIT-BHU gangrape and the three people involved --- Saksham Patel, Kunal Pander, and Anand Chauhan --- are all extremely close to the senior leaders of the BJP, including PM Modi."</p>

<p>"It is a position of power and there can be no independent probe or justice unless or until he is removed from the position," said Shrinate, calling for Malviya's "immediate removal."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shrinate urged the NCW to intervene, saying, "We hope that the new Minister of Women and Child Development is not going to be a mute bystander to women’s plight. We hope that NCW will find their voice, conscience, and morality and take suo-moto cognisance of this matter."</p>

<p>Taking to Facebook on Tuesday (June 11), Sinha clarified that the "post was not aimed to malign Malviya but as a caution not to get entangled in a honey trap".</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RSS member Shantanu Sinha in a social media post says, "It is a great chagrin to me that the nastiest and most corrupted political party of the country, the Indian National Congress is spreading hate campaign against Amit Malaviya and BJP...I want to give a clear message that the… <a href="https://t.co/oEjOb6Oic8">https://t.co/oEjOb6Oic8</a> <a href="https://t.co/nfLrww4Uqf">pic.twitter.com/nfLrww4Uqf</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1800395252651733195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


BJP's Amit Malviya has filed a Rs 10 crore (100 million) defamation suit as retaliation for RSS activist Shantanu Sinha's allegations of Malviya's alleged involvement in sexual exploitation of women.

BJP's Amit Malviya has filed a Rs 10 crore (100 million) defamation suit as retaliation for RSS activist Shantanu Sinha's allegations of Malviya's alleged involvement in sexual exploitation of women. “[T]he nature of allegations are extremely offensive in as much as, they falsely allege sexual misconduct purportedly committed by my client. The same is fatally injurious to the dignity and reputation of my client who, by virtue of his professional profile, is a public figure. Such malevolently malicious statements have been deliberately made to tarnish his reputation,” the legal notice sent by Malviya reads. Meanwhile, Congress has called for Malviya's "immediate removal" from the position and an "independent probe" into the matter. It further accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of providing "political patronage to the perpetrators of crime." Congresswoman Supriya Shrinate revealed during a news conference that Malviya was accused by some RSS members of engaging in "nefarious activities", including "sexual exploitation of women not only in 5-star hotels but also in BJP offices in Bengal." Also read: Suresh Gopi dismisses reports of wanting to quit ministerial post for films "It has come to light by members of the RSS who are on record -- a gentleman by the name of Shantanu Sinha related to Rahul Sinha, an office bearer of the BJP in Bengal has alleged that Amit Malviya, the head of BJP IT Cell has indulged in nefarious activities, he has indulged in sexual exploitation of women not only in 5-star hotels but also in BJP offices in Bengal," Shrinate said. Shrinate added, "If you remember the IIT-BHU gangrape and the three people involved --- Saksham Patel, Kunal Pander, and Anand Chauhan --- are all extremely close to the senior leaders of the BJP, including PM Modi." "It is a position of power and there can be no independent probe or justice unless or until he is removed from the position," said Shrinate, calling for Malviya's "immediate removal." Shrinate urged the NCW to intervene, saying, "We hope that the new Minister of Women and Child Development is not going to be a mute bystander to women’s plight. We hope that NCW will find their voice, conscience, and morality and take suo-moto cognisance of this matter." Taking to Facebook on Tuesday (June 11), Sinha clarified that the "post was not aimed to malign Malviya but as a caution not to get entangled in a honey trap". RSS member Shantanu Sinha in a social media post says, "It is a great chagrin to me that the nastiest and most corrupted political party of the country, the Indian National Congress is spreading hate campaign against Amit Malaviya and BJP...I want to give a clear message that the… https://t.co/oEjOb6Oic8 pic.twitter.com/nfLrww4Uqf — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

BJP leader Amit Malviya sues RSS activist over sexual misconduct row

<p>The first meeting of Narendra Modi's third cabinet was held at the Indian Prime Minister's Lok Kalyan Marg home on Monday (June 9). The Cabinet resolved to help&nbsp;build 300 million more rural and urban houses to satisfy the housing needs of the growing number of eligible families.</p>

<p>Since 2015–16, the Indian government has been carrying out the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which aims to help eligible rural and urban people build homes with the most basic facilities. Over the course of the previous 10 years, 4.21 crore residences under PMAY have been constructed for eligible impoverished households.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Through convergence with other central and state government projects, all PMAY-built homes are equipped with additional essential utilities such as functional household tap connections, LPG and electricity connections, and household toilets.</p>

<p>In his first address to the officials of PMO, after assuming office of the Prime Minister for the third time, PM Modi said, "What new can be done in the team which gave me so much in 10 years, how we can do ever better, how we can do ever quicker, how we can do it on a better scale - if we go ahead together with all of these, I am confident that the 140 crore people of the country have put their stamp of approval on their efforts."</p>

<p>"These elections are not a stamp on the speeches of Modi, these elections are a stamp on the efforts of every government employee in 10 years. So, if someone is entitled to this victory, it is you. Every employee of the Government of India is truly entitled to this victory - who left no stone unturned to give themselves in for a vision...I want to go ahead with a new energy, a new courage. I was not born to stop," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-assumes-office-for-third-term-after-a-grand-oath-ceremony-730424">PM Modi assumes office for third term after a grand oath ceremony</a></strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;leaders who took oath as Cabinet Ministers at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday include Raj Nath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Jagat Prakash Nadda, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Manohar Lal, HD Kumaraswamy, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Jitan Ram Manjhi, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Sarbananda Sonowal, Virendra Kumar, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Pralhad Joshi, Jual Oram, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Bhupender Yadav, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Annpurna Devi, Kiren Rijiju, Hardeep Singh Puri, Mansukh Mandaviya, G Kishan Reddy, Chirag Paswan and C R Patil.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The first meeting of Narendra Modi's third cabinet was held at the Indian Prime Minister's Lok Kalyan Marg home on Monday (June 9). The Cabinet resolved to help build 300 million more rural and urban houses to satisfy the housing needs of the growing number of eligible families.

The first meeting of Narendra Modi's third cabinet was held at the Indian Prime Minister's Lok Kalyan Marg home on Monday (June 9). The Cabinet resolved to help build 300 million more rural and urban houses to satisfy the housing needs of the growing number of eligible families. Since 2015–16, the Indian government has been carrying out the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which aims to help eligible rural and urban people build homes with the most basic facilities. Over the course of the previous 10 years, 4.21 crore residences under PMAY have been constructed for eligible impoverished households. Through convergence with other central and state government projects, all PMAY-built homes are equipped with additional essential utilities such as functional household tap connections, LPG and electricity connections, and household toilets. In his first address to the officials of PMO, after assuming office of the Prime Minister for the third time, PM Modi said, "What new can be done in the team which gave me so much in 10 years, how we can do ever better, how we can do ever quicker, how we can do it on a better scale - if we go ahead together with all of these, I am confident that the 140 crore people of the country have put their stamp of approval on their efforts." "These elections are not a stamp on the speeches of Modi, these elections are a stamp on the efforts of every government employee in 10 years. So, if someone is entitled to this victory, it is you. Every employee of the Government of India is truly entitled to this victory - who left no stone unturned to give themselves in for a vision...I want to go ahead with a new energy, a new courage. I was not born to stop," he added. Also read: PM Modi assumes office for third term after a grand oath ceremony The leaders who took oath as Cabinet Ministers at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday include Raj Nath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Jagat Prakash Nadda, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Manohar Lal, HD Kumaraswamy, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Jitan Ram Manjhi, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Sarbananda Sonowal, Virendra Kumar, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Pralhad Joshi, Jual Oram, Giriraj Singh, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Bhupender Yadav, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Annpurna Devi, Kiren Rijiju, Hardeep Singh Puri, Mansukh Mandaviya, G Kishan Reddy, Chirag Paswan and C R Patil. (With inputs from agencies)

First Modi 3.0 cabinet meet ends, govt to help 300mn people build houses

<p>Rajnath Singh, a prominent BJP leader and the&nbsp;defence minister in the last Narendra Modi government, took oath on Sunday (June 9) as part of the cabinet in the historic third consecutive term of the Indian prime minister.</p>

<p>Singh has had a long political career spanning several decades, a journey that began in the early 1970s when he became associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).</p>

<p>His strong ideological foundation within the RSS set the stage for his subsequent political career.</p>

<h2><strong>Early life and education</strong></h2>

<p>Rajnath Singh was born on 10 July 1951 in Bhabhaura, Chandauli district of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh. Singh earned a master’s degree in physics from Gorakhpur University.</p>

<p>His association with Hindu right-wing organisations started during his student days. Singh joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) when he was 13 years old. Between 1969 and 1971 he was the organisational secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP, the student wing of the RSS) in Gorakhpur. He became the general secretary of the RSS’s Mirzapur branch in 1972.</p>

<h2><strong>Political career&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Rajnath Singh entered active politics two years later, joining the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (Indian People’s Association), which was the political wing of the RSS and the precursor to the BJP.</p>

<p>Singh was arrested in 1975 during the state of emergency declared by then prime minister Indira Gandhi and was held in detention until 1977.</p>

<p>Following his release from jail that year, Singh was elected to the lower chamber of the Uttar Pradesh state legislature in his first run for public office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP was established in 1980, and three years later Singh was appointed secretary of the party in Uttar Pradesh. In 1984 he became the state president of the BJP’s youth wing, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM; Indian People’s Youth Movement) and in 1988 he was named as the national president.</p>

<p>After BJP's majority win in the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in 1992, Singh was made the education minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Ministerial roles</strong></h2>

<p>Singh became a member of the Rajya Sabha (upper chamber of the Indian parliament) in 1994. In 1997 he was appointed president of the Uttar Pradesh branch of the BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 1999 Singh was elected as the minister of Surface Transport under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his brief tenure with the ministry, an ambitious program was launched to expand the national highway network, aiming to better connect India's major urban centers.</p>

<p>In 2000 Singh became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. His term in office lasted less than a year and a half, as he was forced to step down in early 2002 after the BJP lost in state assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2013, Singh was again elected as the president of the BJP, succeeding Nitin Gadkari, who had replaced him in 2009.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Singh retained a seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections—part of a landslide BJP victory— and joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet as Minister of Home Affairs. He served in that role until 2019, when he was appointed Minister of Defense.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rajnath Singh, a prominent BJP leader and the defence minister in the last Narendra Modi government, took oath on Sunday (June 9) as part of the cabinet in the historic third consecutive term of the Indian prime minister.

Rajnath Singh, a prominent BJP leader and the defence minister in the last Narendra Modi government, took oath on Sunday (June 9) as part of the cabinet in the historic third consecutive term of the Indian prime minister. Singh has had a long political career spanning several decades, a journey that began in the early 1970s when he became associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). His strong ideological foundation within the RSS set the stage for his subsequent political career. Early life and education Rajnath Singh was born on 10 July 1951 in Bhabhaura, Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh. Singh earned a master’s degree in physics from Gorakhpur University. His association with Hindu right-wing organisations started during his student days. Singh joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) when he was 13 years old. Between 1969 and 1971 he was the organisational secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP, the student wing of the RSS) in Gorakhpur. He became the general secretary of the RSS’s Mirzapur branch in 1972. Political career Rajnath Singh entered active politics two years later, joining the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (Indian People’s Association), which was the political wing of the RSS and the precursor to the BJP. Singh was arrested in 1975 during the state of emergency declared by then prime minister Indira Gandhi and was held in detention until 1977. Following his release from jail that year, Singh was elected to the lower chamber of the Uttar Pradesh state legislature in his first run for public office. The BJP was established in 1980, and three years later Singh was appointed secretary of the party in Uttar Pradesh. In 1984 he became the state president of the BJP’s youth wing, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM; Indian People’s Youth Movement) and in 1988 he was named as the national president. After BJP's majority win in the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in 1992, Singh was made the education minister. Ministerial roles Singh became a member of the Rajya Sabha (upper chamber of the Indian parliament) in 1994. In 1997 he was appointed president of the Uttar Pradesh branch of the BJP. In 1999 Singh was elected as the minister of Surface Transport under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. During his brief tenure with the ministry, an ambitious program was launched to expand the national highway network, aiming to better connect India's major urban centers. In 2000 Singh became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. His term in office lasted less than a year and a half, as he was forced to step down in early 2002 after the BJP lost in state assembly elections. In 2013, Singh was again elected as the president of the BJP, succeeding Nitin Gadkari, who had replaced him in 2009. Later, Singh retained a seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections—part of a landslide BJP victory— and joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet as Minister of Home Affairs. He served in that role until 2019, when he was appointed Minister of Defense. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Rajnath Singh? The former defence minister of India takes oath as minister in Modi 3.0

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah registered a stunning victory in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat of Gujarat by a huge margin of more than 744,000 votes. He defeated his nearest Congress rival, Sonal Patel to retain the constituency. Shah on Sunday (Jun 9) took oath as a minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet.</p>

<p>Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat has remained a BJP bastion since 1989 with Shankersinh Vaghela's win. BJP veterans like Lal Krishna Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee have also won from this seat. Advani has won it since 1998 and remained the most popular face there. Carrying the legacy forward, Shah emerged victorious in 2019 and in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections 2024.</p>

<p>Shah, a stalwart of the party, is regarded as the right-hand man of Narendra Modi and one of the most important cogs in the BJP machine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-shivraj-singh-chouhan-ex-mp-cm-takes-oath-as-minister-in-modi-30-cabinet-730262">Who is Shivraj Singh Chouhan? Ex-MP CM takes oath as minister in Modi 3.0 cabinet</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After winning in 2019, Shah was given the tough task of managing the home ministry. He also became the first minister of cooperation in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shah is the chief strategist of the BJP and became the apparent second-most powerful man in India, second only to Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 59-year-old held several posts as a member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly from Sarkhej from 1997 to 2012 and Naranpura from 2012 to 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jitan-ram-manjhi-who-once-acted-as-nitishs-backup-cm-in-bihar-finds-his-place-in-modi-30-730228">Jitan Ram Manjhi, who once acted as Nitish's backup CM in Bihar, finds his place in Modi 3.0</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>When he was 18 years old, he joined the BJP after securing a position in the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), which is a student union affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since 1987, Shah has been a dedicated BJP member and has taken charge of crucial elections at the Centre and states.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Important decision as the home minister</strong></h2>

<p>Amit Shah has made several crucial and historic decisions. He moved a resolution to scrap Article 370 on August 5, 2019, just a few months after taking oath as home minister. The move was aimed at tackling political instability and insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir and the abrogation divided the state into two union territories - J&amp;K and Ladakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2019, Shah also declared in the Rajya Sabha that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would be implemented.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah registered a stunning victory in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat of Gujarat by a huge margin of more than 744,000 votes.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah registered a stunning victory in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat of Gujarat by a huge margin of more than 744,000 votes. He defeated his nearest Congress rival, Sonal Patel to retain the constituency. Shah on Sunday (Jun 9) took oath as a minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet. Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat has remained a BJP bastion since 1989 with Shankersinh Vaghela's win. BJP veterans like Lal Krishna Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee have also won from this seat. Advani has won it since 1998 and remained the most popular face there. Carrying the legacy forward, Shah emerged victorious in 2019 and in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections 2024. Shah, a stalwart of the party, is regarded as the right-hand man of Narendra Modi and one of the most important cogs in the BJP machine. Also read: Who is Shivraj Singh Chouhan? Ex-MP CM takes oath as minister in Modi 3.0 cabinet After winning in 2019, Shah was given the tough task of managing the home ministry. He also became the first minister of cooperation in 2021. Shah is the chief strategist of the BJP and became the apparent second-most powerful man in India, second only to Modi. The 59-year-old held several posts as a member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly from Sarkhej from 1997 to 2012 and Naranpura from 2012 to 2017. Also read: Jitan Ram Manjhi, who once acted as Nitish's backup CM in Bihar, finds his place in Modi 3.0 When he was 18 years old, he joined the BJP after securing a position in the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), which is a student union affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Since 1987, Shah has been a dedicated BJP member and has taken charge of crucial elections at the Centre and states. Important decision as the home minister Amit Shah has made several crucial and historic decisions. He moved a resolution to scrap Article 370 on August 5, 2019, just a few months after taking oath as home minister. The move was aimed at tackling political instability and insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir and the abrogation divided the state into two union territories - J&K and Ladakh. In 2019, Shah also declared in the Rajya Sabha that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would be implemented. (With inputs from agencies)

Amit Shah: Stalwart and vital cog in BJP machine takes oath as minister in Modi 3.0 cabinet

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is set to attend PM-designate Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Sunday (June 9) evening at Rashtrapati Bhawan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kharge was extended the event invite, which he has accepted following a meeting with his allies and the party, reported news agency ANI citing sources.</p>

<p>The invite to Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha was extended by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Prahlad Joshi on Saturday (June 8).</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress leader and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari said that he was yet to receive the invite for the ceremony.</p>

<p>"I am the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha. I haven't received any invitation for the swearing-in ceremony of PM-designate Narendra Modi nor have the INDIA alliance partners. To turn the ceremony into an international event, Narendra Modi is more interested in inviting foreign guests," Tiwari said.</p>

<p>This comes after Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh had alleged that only the international leaders were invited to the ceremony and that the INDIA bloc will think about attending the event if and when the invitation is received.</p>

<p>"Only international leaders have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony. Our leaders have not received the invitation yet. When our INDIA alliance leaders receive the invitation, we will think about it," Jairam Ramesh said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Have neither received invitation nor will I go,': Mamata Banerjee</strong></h2>

<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is also an ally of the INDIA bloc said that she would not attend PM-designate Modi's swearing-in ceremony irrespective of the invite.</p>

<p>"I have neither received (the invitation) nor will I go. I have already said that I wish well for the people in the country for not voting for him (PM Modi)," Banerjee said when asked by reporters if she would attend the swearing-in ceremony of PM-designate Narendra Modi on Sunday.</p>

<p>"I am sorry, but I cannot wish well to an unconstitutional, illegal party for forming the government. My best wishes will be for the country," the chief minister added.</p>

<p>BJP leader Narendra Modi is set to take the oath as India's prime minister for the historic third time, equalling Jawaharlal Nehru's record after completing two full terms.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is set to attend PM-designate Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Sunday (June 9) evening at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Kharge was extended the event invite, which he has accepted following a meeting with his allies and the party, reported news agency ANI citing sources.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is set to attend PM-designate Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Sunday (June 9) evening at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Kharge was extended the event invite, which he has accepted following a meeting with his allies and the party, reported news agency ANI citing sources. The invite to Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha was extended by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Prahlad Joshi on Saturday (June 8). Meanwhile, Congress leader and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari said that he was yet to receive the invite for the ceremony. "I am the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha. I haven't received any invitation for the swearing-in ceremony of PM-designate Narendra Modi nor have the INDIA alliance partners. To turn the ceremony into an international event, Narendra Modi is more interested in inviting foreign guests," Tiwari said. This comes after Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh had alleged that only the international leaders were invited to the ceremony and that the INDIA bloc will think about attending the event if and when the invitation is received. "Only international leaders have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony. Our leaders have not received the invitation yet. When our INDIA alliance leaders receive the invitation, we will think about it," Jairam Ramesh said. 'Have neither received invitation nor will I go,': Mamata Banerjee West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is also an ally of the INDIA bloc said that she would not attend PM-designate Modi's swearing-in ceremony irrespective of the invite. "I have neither received (the invitation) nor will I go. I have already said that I wish well for the people in the country for not voting for him (PM Modi)," Banerjee said when asked by reporters if she would attend the swearing-in ceremony of PM-designate Narendra Modi on Sunday. "I am sorry, but I cannot wish well to an unconstitutional, illegal party for forming the government. My best wishes will be for the country," the chief minister added. BJP leader Narendra Modi is set to take the oath as India's prime minister for the historic third time, equalling Jawaharlal Nehru's record after completing two full terms. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge to attend PM-designate Modi's swearing-in ceremony

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked PM-designate Narendra Modi amid the ongoing NEET-UG medical entrance controversy stating that the alleged discrepancies in the examination had "devastated more than 24 lakh students and their families".</p>

<p>The grand old party's MP-elect then assured that he would become their voice in the parliament, further vowing to strongly raise concerns related to the betterment of their future.</p>

<p>"Narendra Modi has not even taken oath yet and the scam in NEET exam has devastated more than 24 lakh students and their families. 6 students from the same exam centre top the exam with maximum marks, many get such marks which are technically not possible, but the government is continuously denying the possibility of paper leak," Gandhi said in a post on X.</p>

<p>Further reiterating the poll promise to formulate a law that would deal with the paper leak issues, Gandhi said that the grand old party has come up with a "robust plan".</p>

<p>"Congress had made a robust plan to deal with this 'paper leak industry' which is being run in collusion with the education mafia and the government machinery. In our manifesto, we had pledged to free the students from paper leak by making a law," he said.</p>

<p>"Today, I assure all the students of the country that I will become your voice in Parliament and strongly raise the issues related to your future. The youth have expressed confidence in INDIA - INDIA will not allow their voice to be suppressed," Gandhi added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">नरेंद्र मोदी ने अभी शपथ भी नहीं ली है और NEET परीक्षा में हुई धांधली ने 24 लाख से अधिक स्टूडेंट्स और उनके परिवारों को तोड़ दिया है।<br />
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एक ही एग्जाम सेंटर से 6 छात्र मैक्सिमम मार्क्स के साथ टॉप कर जाते हैं, कितनों को ऐसे मार्क्स मिलते हैं जो टेक्निकली संभव ही नहीं है, लेकिन सरकार…</p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1799679113478934556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'BJP govt has destroyed future of medial aspirants,' says KC Venugopal&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Congress general secretary (organisations) KC Venugopal had hit out at the BJP government over "destroying the future of medical aspirants" and&nbsp;urged&nbsp;the Ministry of Education to conduct a proper investigation into the matter.</p>

<p>In a post on X, KC Venugopal said, "The BJP government has totally botched the NEET examinations and destroyed the future of our medical aspirants."</p>

<p>"First, it persisted with the exam despite huge opposition from many states, especially Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Now, it is clearly unable to administer it effectively and we are now seeing the paper leak at the national level. This, coupled with multiple irregularities raises alarm about how the exam is being conducted," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-aspirants-allege-inflation-of-marks-nta-denies-discrepancies-729765">Also read:&nbsp;India's NEET test-takers allege discrepancy in results, testing agency rejects claims</a></p>

<h2><strong>India's NEET test-takers allege discrepancy in results</strong></h2>

<p>One of India's most sought-after exams, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) which is the gateway for admission to medical colleges, found itself surrounded by controversy this week after several aspirants complained about inflation of marks.</p>

<p>The declaration of NEET results on Wednesday (Jun 5) witnessed an unprecedented 67 candidates bagging the top rank, out of which six were from the same exam centre in the northern state of Haryana.</p>

<p>The National Testing Agency (NTA), however, dismissed the claims regarding discrepancies and irregularities in the result.</p>

<p>It cited changes made to the NCERT textbooks and 'grace marks' given to students for losing time at the examination centres as the reasons behind students scoring higher marks.</p>

<p>"Such cases and representations were considered by NTA and the normalisation formula, which has been devised and adopted by Supreme Court, vide its Judgment dated 13.06.2018, was implemented to address the loss of time faced by the candidates of NEET (UG) 2024," it said in a statement.<br />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
"The loss of examination time was ascertained and such candidates were compensated with grace marks. So, there marks can be 718 or 719 also," the statement further read.</p>

<p>However, on Saturday, the NTA set up a committee to review the grace marks awarded to NEET UG 2024 candidates.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked PM-designate Narendra Modi amid the ongoing NEET-UG medical entrance controversy stating that the alleged discrepancies in the examination had "devastated more than 24 lakh students and their families".

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked PM-designate Narendra Modi amid the ongoing NEET-UG medical entrance controversy stating that the alleged discrepancies in the examination had "devastated more than 24 lakh students and their families". The grand old party's MP-elect then assured that he would become their voice in the parliament, further vowing to strongly raise concerns related to the betterment of their future. "Narendra Modi has not even taken oath yet and the scam in NEET exam has devastated more than 24 lakh students and their families. 6 students from the same exam centre top the exam with maximum marks, many get such marks which are technically not possible, but the government is continuously denying the possibility of paper leak," Gandhi said in a post on X. Further reiterating the poll promise to formulate a law that would deal with the paper leak issues, Gandhi said that the grand old party has come up with a "robust plan". "Congress had made a robust plan to deal with this 'paper leak industry' which is being run in collusion with the education mafia and the government machinery. In our manifesto, we had pledged to free the students from paper leak by making a law," he said. "Today, I assure all the students of the country that I will become your voice in Parliament and strongly raise the issues related to your future. The youth have expressed confidence in INDIA - INDIA will not allow their voice to be suppressed," Gandhi added. नरेंद्र मोदी ने अभी शपथ भी नहीं ली है और NEET परीक्षा में हुई धांधली ने 24 लाख से अधिक स्टूडेंट्स और उनके परिवारों को तोड़ दिया है। एक ही एग्जाम सेंटर से 6 छात्र मैक्सिमम मार्क्स के साथ टॉप कर जाते हैं, कितनों को ऐसे मार्क्स मिलते हैं जो टेक्निकली संभव ही नहीं है, लेकिन सरकार… — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 9, 2024 × 'BJP govt has destroyed future of medial aspirants,' says KC Venugopal Earlier, Congress general secretary (organisations) KC Venugopal had hit out at the BJP government over "destroying the future of medical aspirants" and urged the Ministry of Education to conduct a proper investigation into the matter. In a post on X, KC Venugopal said, "The BJP government has totally botched the NEET examinations and destroyed the future of our medical aspirants." "First, it persisted with the exam despite huge opposition from many states, especially Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Now, it is clearly unable to administer it effectively and we are now seeing the paper leak at the national level. This, coupled with multiple irregularities raises alarm about how the exam is being conducted," he added. Also read: India's NEET test-takers allege discrepancy in results, testing agency rejects claims India's NEET test-takers allege discrepancy in results One of India's most sought-after exams, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) which is the gateway for admission to medical colleges, found itself surrounded by controversy this week after several aspirants complained about inflation of marks. The declaration of NEET results on Wednesday (Jun 5) witnessed an unprecedented 67 candidates bagging the top rank, out of which six were from the same exam centre in the northern state of Haryana. The National Testing Agency (NTA), however, dismissed the claims regarding discrepancies and irregularities in the result. It cited changes made to the NCERT textbooks and 'grace marks' given to students for losing time at the examination centres as the reasons behind students scoring higher marks. "Such cases and representations were considered by NTA and the normalisation formula, which has been devised and adopted by Supreme Court, vide its Judgment dated 13.06.2018, was implemented to address the loss of time faced by the candidates of NEET (UG) 2024," it said in a statement. "The loss of examination time was ascertained and such candidates were compensated with grace marks. So, there marks can be 718 or 719 also," the statement further read. However, on Saturday, the NTA set up a committee to review the grace marks awarded to NEET UG 2024 candidates. (With inputs from agencies)

NEET-UG exam row: Rahul Gandhi hits out at Modi government for 'destroying future of students'

<p>From 'Achchhey Din Aane Waley Hain' (good days are going to come), to 'Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar' (once again Modi government) to 'Ab Ki Baar 400 Paar' (this time, more than 400 seats).</p>

<p>A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with conviction won over the masses in 2014, continued the victory streak in 2019, but saw a fall in 2024.</p>

<p>Not too long ago, the party tried to woo the voters, promising them the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The party did fulfill its promise in the beginning of this year, but it appears the people of Uttar Pradesh were not fully satisfied, as a result the party fared differently in the state.</p>

<p>The results for the Lok Sabha polls 2024 were contrary to what the exit polls had predicted and what the party had anticipated.</p>

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA alliance, which was expected to hand the opposition INDIA bloc a crushing defeat, failed to even win a full majority.</p>

<p>Seeking to cross 400 seats, BJP won 240 this time, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. A tally much lower than what the party registered in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>In 2019, BJP won 303 seats, whereas in 2014, the party won 282 seats.</p>

<p>Which states did BJP fare badly in 2024 Lok Sabha polls?</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-a-success-rate-of-25-bjp-lost-20-seats-out-of-27-in-bengal-where-modi-campaigned-729748">BJP lost 20 seats out of 27 in Bengal where Modi campaigned, success rate 25%</a></p>

<h2><strong>Uttar Pradesh</strong></h2>

<p>Uttar Pradesh came as the biggest shock for the saffron party as it saw a massive downfall from 62 seats out of 80 in Lok Sabha polls 2019 to 33 in 2024.</p>

<p>On January 22, the consecration ceremony for the Ram temple took place but that didn't certainly translate to a guarantee of votes in the north Indian state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party (SP) took the country by surprise by leading the electoral contest in UP and bagging 37 seats in the general elections.</p>

<h2><strong>West Bengal</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s extensive campaigning in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress bagged 29 Lok Sabha seats.</p>

<p>BJP only secured 12 in the east Indian state.</p>

<p>The saffron party had attacked TMC over Sandeshkhali violence, corruption the state and indulging in appeasement politics but it fell flat.</p>

<h2><strong>Maharashtra</strong></h2>

<p>In Maharashtra, the BJP bagged only nine seats out of 48, witnessing a sharp decline from 23 seats in the year 2019.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


From 'Achchhey Din Aane Waley Hain' (good days are going to come), to 'Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar' (once again Modi government) to 'Ab Ki Baar 400 Paar' (this time, more than 400 seats).

From 'Achchhey Din Aane Waley Hain' (good days are going to come), to 'Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar' (once again Modi government) to 'Ab Ki Baar 400 Paar' (this time, more than 400 seats). A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with conviction won over the masses in 2014, continued the victory streak in 2019, but saw a fall in 2024. Not too long ago, the party tried to woo the voters, promising them the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The party did fulfill its promise in the beginning of this year, but it appears the people of Uttar Pradesh were not fully satisfied, as a result the party fared differently in the state. The results for the Lok Sabha polls 2024 were contrary to what the exit polls had predicted and what the party had anticipated. Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA alliance, which was expected to hand the opposition INDIA bloc a crushing defeat, failed to even win a full majority. Seeking to cross 400 seats, BJP won 240 this time, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. A tally much lower than what the party registered in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In 2019, BJP won 303 seats, whereas in 2014, the party won 282 seats. Which states did BJP fare badly in 2024 Lok Sabha polls? Also read: BJP lost 20 seats out of 27 in Bengal where Modi campaigned, success rate 25% Uttar Pradesh Uttar Pradesh came as the biggest shock for the saffron party as it saw a massive downfall from 62 seats out of 80 in Lok Sabha polls 2019 to 33 in 2024. On January 22, the consecration ceremony for the Ram temple took place but that didn't certainly translate to a guarantee of votes in the north Indian state. Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party (SP) took the country by surprise by leading the electoral contest in UP and bagging 37 seats in the general elections. West Bengal Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s extensive campaigning in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress bagged 29 Lok Sabha seats. BJP only secured 12 in the east Indian state. The saffron party had attacked TMC over Sandeshkhali violence, corruption the state and indulging in appeasement politics but it fell flat. Maharashtra In Maharashtra, the BJP bagged only nine seats out of 48, witnessing a sharp decline from 23 seats in the year 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Polls 2019 vs 2024: What are the factors that did not help BJP?

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), held a meeting of its newly elected MPs at the Central Hall of Parliament today.

NDA government meeting: BJP-led NDA leaders meet to pave the way for the alliance

<p>India's Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi,&nbsp;announced victory in the Lok Sabha elections, late Tuesday (Jun 4). At the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi,&nbsp;Modi told party members,&nbsp;"Today is a very auspicious day and the NDA is going to form the government for the third consecutive time. We are all thankful to the public for this. People of nation have reposed their faith in the BJP and the NDA, and our victory is win of the world's biggest democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even before all votes were counted, congratulatory messages for PM Modi and his National Democratic Alliance (NDA)&nbsp;poured&nbsp;in from various international leaders.</p>

<p>With all votes counted as of Wednesday (Jun 5) morning, BJP-led NDA has secured a majority with 292 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Elon Musk</strong></h2>

<p>The US billionaire on Friday (June 7) congratulated Modi on his X social media platform. "Congratulations Narendra Modi on your victory in the world’s largest democratic elections! Looking forward to my companies doing exciting work in India," Musk wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on your victory in the world’s largest democratic elections! Looking forward to my companies doing exciting work in India.</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1799119259177488540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>EU</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to the people of India! And congratulations&nbsp;@narendramodi. As the EU moves into its own elections, we celebrate the voice of the people in our democracies, the two biggest in the world. I look forward to a continued fruitful partnership between the EU and India," EU president&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>United States</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the National Democratic Alliance on their victory, and the nearly 650 million voters in this historic election. The friendship between our nations is only growing as we unlock a shared future of unlimited potential," US President Joe Biden wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party for winning the Indian legislative elections during their phone conversation. Both parties committed to maintaining a friendly relationship and expressed pleasure with the degree of strategic collaboration between Russia and India.</p>

<p>"Thank President Putin for his call to convey his warm wishes and felicitations to the people of India for record participation in general elections and the NDA’s success. We underlined our shared commitment to further strengthen India-Russia Special &amp; Privileged Strategic Partnership," PM Modi wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>United Kingdom</strong></h2>

<p>"Today I spoke to&nbsp;@narendramodi&nbsp;to congratulate him on his election victory. The UK and India share the closest of friendships, and together that friendship will continue to thrive. ब्रिटेन और भारत के बीच करीबी मित्रता है, और साथ मिलकर यह मित्रता आगे बढ़ती रहेगी।" Rishi Sunak wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Mauritius</strong></h2>

<p>“Congratulations Prime Minister Modi Ji @narendramodi on your laudable victory for a historic third term. Under your helm, the largest democracy will continue to achieve remarkable progress. Long live the Mauritius-India special relationship,” Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Bhutan</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to my friend PM @narendramodi ji and NDA for the historic 3rd consecutive win in the world’s biggest elections. As he continues to lead Bharat to great heights, I look forward to working closely with him to further strengthen the relations between our 2 countries," Bhutan&nbsp;PM Tshering Tobgay wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Nepal</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to PM @narendramodi on the electoral success of BJP and NDA in the Loksabha elections for the third consecutive term. We are happy to note the successful completion of the world’s largest democratic exercise with enthusiastic participation of the people of India,"&nbsp;Nepal PM Prachanda wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p>"I extend my warmest felicitations to the&nbsp;@BJP4India&nbsp;led NDA on its victory, demonstrating the confidence of the Indian people in the progress and prosperity under the leadership of PM&nbsp;@narendramodi. As the closest neighbour Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthening the partnership with India,"&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe wrote on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-blow-to-modi-how-world-media-reacted-to-bjps-disappointing-performance-in-india-general-elections-728742">‘Big blow to Modi,’ how world media reacted to BJP’s below par performance in India general election</a></strong></p>

<p>"Congratulations to PM&nbsp;@narendramodi&nbsp;ji and NDA on a historic win. We look forward to being inspired by a new chapter of big decisions for India and another chapter of India’s “Neighborhood First Policy,” leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka,&nbsp;Sajith Premadasa posted on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Bangladesh</strong></h2>

<p>Bangladesh's PM Hasina&nbsp;sent a congratulatory letter to PM Modi over election win.</p>

<h2><strong>Maldives</strong></h2>

<p>Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, while congratulating PM Modi, wrote on X, "Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP and BJP-led NDA, on the success in the 2024 Indian General Election, for the third consecutive term. &nbsp;I look forward to working together to advance our shared interests in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability for our two countries."</p>

<p>"Congratulations to Prime Minister Shri&nbsp;@narendramodi&nbsp;on being re-elected for a historic third term. Under your leadership, #India has significantly improved its relationship with #Maldives and the region. I am confident you will build on these successes towards greater cooperation. I also commend the people and institutions of India for their resilience and commitment to democracy, as the world’s largest democratic exercise draws to a close,"&nbsp;Maldives leader of opposition, President of MDP and Former FM&nbsp;Abdulla Shahid wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Italy</strong></h2>

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni&nbsp;extended her best wishes to PM Modi on his victory.</p>

<p>"Congratulations to @narendramodi on the new electoral victory and my warmest wishes for good work. Certain that we will continue to work together to strengthen the friendship that unites Italy and India and consolidate cooperation on the various issues that bind us, for the well-being of our Nations and our peoples," said Italian PM Meloni, in a post on X.</p>

<h2>Antonio Guterres</h2>

<p>"Can't comment before all the counting is done, but congratulations to the people of India for "massive exercise of democracy", said&nbsp;United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spokesperson&nbsp;on PM Modi's&nbsp;win.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky took to X and&nbsp;congratulated PM Modi and the BJP-led alliance NDA on its&nbsp;third consecutive victory and said that he looks forward to seeing New Delhi at the&nbsp;Ukraine peace summit, later this month,&nbsp;in Switzerland.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I welcome the successful holding of the world’s largest democratic elections in India. Congratulations to Prime Minister&nbsp;@NarendraModi, the BJP, and BJP-led NDA on the third consecutive victory in India's parliamentary elections."</p>

<p>He added, "I wish the people of India peace and prosperity, and I hope for continued cooperation between our countries. India and Ukraine share common values and a rich history. May our partnership continue to thrive, bringing progress and mutual understanding for our nations."</p>

<p>"Everyone in the world recognizes the significance and weight of India's role in global affairs. It is critical that we all work together to ensure a just peace for all nations. In this regard, we also look forward to seeing India attend the Peace Summit," said Zelensky, on X.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"I extend my warmest congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on being reelected for a third consecutive term.<br />
May the friendship between India and Israel continue to surge towards new heights. Badhaai Ho !" said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Japan</strong></h2>

<p>After the outcome of the general election in India, on June 5, Japan's&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Fumio Kishida&nbsp;congratulated his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, said the Japanese foreign ministry in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, PM Kishida "expressed his wish that Prime Minister Modi would exercise leadership for India’s further development and stated that he would like to closely work with Prime Minister Modi toward realizing a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>"China is ready to work with India to promote the healthy and stable development of relations between the two countries, in the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, with an eye to the big picture and a view to the future,"&nbsp;said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Taiwan</strong></h2>

<p>"My sincere congratulations to Prime Minister&nbsp;@narendramodi on his election victory. We look forward to enhancing the fast-growing #Taiwan-#India partnership, expanding our collaboration on trade, technology &amp; other sectors to contribute to peace &amp; prosperity in the #IndoPacific," said Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Iran</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to PM&nbsp;@narendramodi on his recent victory in Indian elections.&nbsp;Under your leadership, India has become a major partner of I.R. Iran.&nbsp;Let's hope for the best relations between two friendly nations: Iran &amp; India," said Iran's interim President Mohammad Mokhber.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Jamaica</strong></h2>

<p>"Congratulations to Prime Minister&nbsp;@narendramodi as he prepares to embark on a historic third term as India’s head of government," said PM&nbsp;Andrew Holness, on X.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Barbados</strong></h2>

<p>Congratulations to Prime Minister&nbsp;@narendramodi on his victory in India's elections, which has seen him secure an unprecedented third term.&nbsp;Under his leadership, India has become a global leader and ally to Barbados and the Caribbean region. Let's continue to build together!" said PM&nbsp;Mia Amor Mottley.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced victory in the Lok Sabha elections, late Tuesday (Jun 4). At the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, Modi told party members, "Today is a very auspicious day and the NDA is going to form the government for the third consecutive time.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced victory in the Lok Sabha elections, late Tuesday (Jun 4). At the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, Modi told party members, "Today is a very auspicious day and the NDA is going to form the government for the third consecutive time. We are all thankful to the public for this. People of nation have reposed their faith in the BJP and the NDA, and our victory is win of the world's biggest democracy." Even before all votes were counted, congratulatory messages for PM Modi and his National Democratic Alliance (NDA) poured in from various international leaders. With all votes counted as of Wednesday (Jun 5) morning, BJP-led NDA has secured a majority with 292 seats. Elon Musk The US billionaire on Friday (June 7) congratulated Modi on his X social media platform. "Congratulations Narendra Modi on your victory in the world’s largest democratic elections! Looking forward to my companies doing exciting work in India," Musk wrote. Congratulations @narendramodi on your victory in the world’s largest democratic elections! Looking forward to my companies doing exciting work in India. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 7, 2024 × EU "Congratulations to the people of India! And congratulations @narendramodi. As the EU moves into its own elections, we celebrate the voice of the people in our democracies, the two biggest in the world. I look forward to a continued fruitful partnership between the EU and India," EU president Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X. United States "Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the National Democratic Alliance on their victory, and the nearly 650 million voters in this historic election. The friendship between our nations is only growing as we unlock a shared future of unlimited potential," US President Joe Biden wrote on X. Russia According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party for winning the Indian legislative elections during their phone conversation. Both parties committed to maintaining a friendly relationship and expressed pleasure with the degree of strategic collaboration between Russia and India. "Thank President Putin for his call to convey his warm wishes and felicitations to the people of India for record participation in general elections and the NDA’s success. We underlined our shared commitment to further strengthen India-Russia Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership," PM Modi wrote on X. United Kingdom "Today I spoke to @narendramodi to congratulate him on his election victory. The UK and India share the closest of friendships, and together that friendship will continue to thrive. ब्रिटेन और भारत के बीच करीबी मित्रता है, और साथ मिलकर यह मित्रता आगे बढ़ती रहेगी।" Rishi Sunak wrote on X. Mauritius “Congratulations Prime Minister Modi Ji @narendramodi on your laudable victory for a historic third term. Under your helm, the largest democracy will continue to achieve remarkable progress. Long live the Mauritius-India special relationship,” Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth wrote on X. Bhutan "Congratulations to my friend PM @narendramodi ji and NDA for the historic 3rd consecutive win in the world’s biggest elections. As he continues to lead Bharat to great heights, I look forward to working closely with him to further strengthen the relations between our 2 countries," Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay wrote on X. Nepal "Congratulations to PM @narendramodi on the electoral success of BJP and NDA in the Loksabha elections for the third consecutive term. We are happy to note the successful completion of the world’s largest democratic exercise with enthusiastic participation of the people of India," Nepal PM Prachanda wrote on X. Sri Lanka "I extend my warmest felicitations to the @BJP4India led NDA on its victory, demonstrating the confidence of the Indian people in the progress and prosperity under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. As the closest neighbour Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthening the partnership with India," Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe wrote on X. Also read: ‘Big blow to Modi,’ how world media reacted to BJP’s below par performance in India general election "Congratulations to PM @narendramodi ji and NDA on a historic win. We look forward to being inspired by a new chapter of big decisions for India and another chapter of India’s “Neighborhood First Policy,” leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka, Sajith Premadasa posted on X. Bangladesh Bangladesh's PM Hasina sent a congratulatory letter to PM Modi over election win. Maldives Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, while congratulating PM Modi, wrote on X, "Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP and BJP-led NDA, on the success in the 2024 Indian General Election, for the third consecutive term. I look forward to working together to advance our shared interests in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability for our two countries." "Congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi on being re-elected for a historic third term. Under your leadership, #India has significantly improved its relationship with #Maldives and the region. I am confident you will build on these successes towards greater cooperation. I also commend the people and institutions of India for their resilience and commitment to democracy, as the world’s largest democratic exercise draws to a close," Maldives leader of opposition, President of MDP and Former FM Abdulla Shahid wrote on X. Italy Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended her best wishes to PM Modi on his victory. "Congratulations to @narendramodi on the new electoral victory and my warmest wishes for good work. Certain that we will continue to work together to strengthen the friendship that unites Italy and India and consolidate cooperation on the various issues that bind us, for the well-being of our Nations and our peoples," said Italian PM Meloni, in a post on X. Antonio Guterres "Can't comment before all the counting is done, but congratulations to the people of India for "massive exercise of democracy", said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spokesperson on PM Modi's win. Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X and congratulated PM Modi and the BJP-led alliance NDA on its third consecutive victory and said that he looks forward to seeing New Delhi at the Ukraine peace summit, later this month, in Switzerland. "I welcome the successful holding of the world’s largest democratic elections in India. Congratulations to Prime Minister @NarendraModi, the BJP, and BJP-led NDA on the third consecutive victory in India's parliamentary elections." He added, "I wish the people of India peace and prosperity, and I hope for continued cooperation between our countries. India and Ukraine share common values and a rich history. May our partnership continue to thrive, bringing progress and mutual understanding for our nations." "Everyone in the world recognizes the significance and weight of India's role in global affairs. It is critical that we all work together to ensure a just peace for all nations. In this regard, we also look forward to seeing India attend the Peace Summit," said Zelensky, on X. Israel "I extend my warmest congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on being reelected for a third consecutive term. May the friendship between India and Israel continue to surge towards new heights. Badhaai Ho !" said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Japan After the outcome of the general election in India, on June 5, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida congratulated his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, said the Japanese foreign ministry in a statement. It added, PM Kishida "expressed his wish that Prime Minister Modi would exercise leadership for India’s further development and stated that he would like to closely work with Prime Minister Modi toward realizing a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'". China "China is ready to work with India to promote the healthy and stable development of relations between the two countries, in the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, with an eye to the big picture and a view to the future," said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning. Taiwan "My sincere congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his election victory. We look forward to enhancing the fast-growing #Taiwan-#India partnership, expanding our collaboration on trade, technology & other sectors to contribute to peace & prosperity in the #IndoPacific," said Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. Iran "Congratulations to PM @narendramodi on his recent victory in Indian elections. Under your leadership, India has become a major partner of I.R. Iran. Let's hope for the best relations between two friendly nations: Iran & India," said Iran's interim President Mohammad Mokhber. Jamaica "Congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi as he prepares to embark on a historic third term as India’s head of government," said PM Andrew Holness, on X. Barbados Congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his victory in India's elections, which has seen him secure an unprecedented third term. Under his leadership, India has become a global leader and ally to Barbados and the Caribbean region. Let's continue to build together!" said PM Mia Amor Mottley. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, world leaders congratulate PM Modi for victory in the world’s largest elections

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jun 7) met veteran leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi at their residences before staking claim to form the government at the Centre for his third consecutive term.</p>

<p>PM Modi visited Advani after he was elected as leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) parliamentary party, leader of the BJP parliamentary party and leader of the BJP in the Lok Sabha.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Watch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Watch</a> | Indian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> meets veteran leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKAdvani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKAdvani</a> at the latter's residence in New Delhi.<br />
<br />
PM Modi won a third-term in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElectionsOnWION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElectionsOnWION</a><br />
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(Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/DF43LTiQHD">pic.twitter.com/DF43LTiQHD</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1799012453516562731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following his meeting with Advani, PM Modi met former BJP president Joshi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Called on Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi Ji. I have learnt so much from him when I was working in the Party organisation. He is greatly respected across India for his wisdom and knowledge. <a href="https://t.co/qzvymoG0YB">pic.twitter.com/qzvymoG0YB</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1799043476660826579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Went to Advani ji's residence and sought his blessings. Every @BJP4India karyakarta is inspired by Advani ji's monumental efforts to strengthen the party," Modi later wrote in on his official X account.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Went to Advani Ji’s residence and sought his blessings. Every <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> Karyakarta is inspired by Advani Ji’s monumental efforts to strengthen the Party. <a href="https://t.co/GJVwh6W4OL">pic.twitter.com/GJVwh6W4OL</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1799043054336389426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi also met former President Ram Nath Kovind in Delhi.</p>

<p>"Met former President Ram Nath Kovind ji. I greatly cherish interacting with him, especially thanks to his unique perspectives of matters of policy and empowering the poor," the prime minister said on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Met former President <a href="https://twitter.com/ramnathkovind?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ramnathkovind</a> Ji. I greatly cherish interacting with him, especially thanks to his unique perspectives of matters of policy and empowering the poor. <a href="https://t.co/1zVK6BWJ8b">pic.twitter.com/1zVK6BWJ8b</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1799044100588757212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-meets-president-murmu-stakes-claim-to-form-government-in-centre-729688">PM-designate Modi meets President Murmu, stakes claim to form government</a></p>

<h2><strong>NDA 'most successful' ruling alliance, says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier today, PM Modi while addressing the NDA parliamentary party meeting asserted that it was the "most successful" ruling alliance.</p>

<p>"I assure the people of the country that the majority they gave us to run the government, it will be our effort that we will strive towards consensus and leave no stone unturned towards taking the country forward...NDA has completed around 3 decades, it is no ordinary thing...I can say that this is the most successful alliance,"&nbsp;said the PM.</p>

<p>He further attacked the INDIA bloc stating that the opposition alliance were incapable of defeating them in both 2019 as well as 2024 Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>"They (Opposition) tried to keep us in the shade of defeat. But this never works. All citizens know that 'na hum hare the, na hare hai' (We were neither defeated nor are we defeated). But our behaviour after the June 4th shows our identity that we know how to digest victory. Our values are such that we do not get over excited in the lap of victory and neither do we have the values of mocking the defeated. We protect the victorious and we do not have the intention of mocking the defeated. These are our values," he added.</p>

<p>The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls 2024 took place on June 4.</p>

<p>NDA emerged victorious in 293 constituencies, while BJP won 240 seats on its own.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jun 7) met veteran leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi at their residences before staking claim to form the government at the Centre for his third consecutive term.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jun 7) met veteran leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi at their residences before staking claim to form the government at the Centre for his third consecutive term. PM Modi visited Advani after he was elected as leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) parliamentary party, leader of the BJP parliamentary party and leader of the BJP in the Lok Sabha. #Watch | Indian #PMModi meets veteran leader #LKAdvani at the latter's residence in New Delhi. PM Modi won a third-term in the #LokSabhaElections2024 #ElectionsOnWION (Source: ANI) pic.twitter.com/DF43LTiQHD — WION (@WIONews) June 7, 2024 × Following his meeting with Advani, PM Modi met former BJP president Joshi. Called on Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi Ji. I have learnt so much from him when I was working in the Party organisation. He is greatly respected across India for his wisdom and knowledge. pic.twitter.com/qzvymoG0YB — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2024 × "Went to Advani ji's residence and sought his blessings. Every @BJP4India karyakarta is inspired by Advani ji's monumental efforts to strengthen the party," Modi later wrote in on his official X account. Went to Advani Ji’s residence and sought his blessings. Every @BJP4India Karyakarta is inspired by Advani Ji’s monumental efforts to strengthen the Party. pic.twitter.com/GJVwh6W4OL — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2024 × PM Modi also met former President Ram Nath Kovind in Delhi. "Met former President Ram Nath Kovind ji. I greatly cherish interacting with him, especially thanks to his unique perspectives of matters of policy and empowering the poor," the prime minister said on X. Met former President @ramnathkovind Ji. I greatly cherish interacting with him, especially thanks to his unique perspectives of matters of policy and empowering the poor. pic.twitter.com/1zVK6BWJ8b — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2024 × Also read: PM-designate Modi meets President Murmu, stakes claim to form government NDA 'most successful' ruling alliance, says PM Modi Earlier today, PM Modi while addressing the NDA parliamentary party meeting asserted that it was the "most successful" ruling alliance. "I assure the people of the country that the majority they gave us to run the government, it will be our effort that we will strive towards consensus and leave no stone unturned towards taking the country forward...NDA has completed around 3 decades, it is no ordinary thing...I can say that this is the most successful alliance," said the PM. He further attacked the INDIA bloc stating that the opposition alliance were incapable of defeating them in both 2019 as well as 2024 Lok Sabha polls. "They (Opposition) tried to keep us in the shade of defeat. But this never works. All citizens know that 'na hum hare the, na hare hai' (We were neither defeated nor are we defeated). But our behaviour after the June 4th shows our identity that we know how to digest victory. Our values are such that we do not get over excited in the lap of victory and neither do we have the values of mocking the defeated. We protect the victorious and we do not have the intention of mocking the defeated. These are our values," he added. The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls 2024 took place on June 4. NDA emerged victorious in 293 constituencies, while BJP won 240 seats on its own. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi meets Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi before staking claim as PM for third time

Despite setbacks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to take oath for a third consecutive term, but the biggest takeaway from the 2024 mandate is a more competitive political environment. This is the first time in a decade that PM Modi will not hold a brute majority in parliament. The next government will be buoyed by the BJP’s allies, who have now turned kingmakers. If history is to trust, a coalition government is never without its challenges. How will this impact the next five years? Will coalition politics weaken Modi 3.0?

India Election: What went wrong for BJP? Will coalition politics weaken Modi 3.0?

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