Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) founder Sharad Pawar on Thursday extended an invitation to Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde, and the two deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar for lunch at his Baramati residence on Saturday when the state leadership will visit the constituency to inaugurate several developmental projects.

BJP 2nd round of talks on seat sharing in Maharashtra; Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar meets Amit Shah

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda announced on Saturday (Mar 9) that the BJP, Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and actor Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) would contest ensuing Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections together in Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency ANI, a joint statement from the three political parties said, "Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has been working tirelessly for the development and progress of the nation for the last 10 years and coming together with TDP and JSP will help in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Andhra Pradesh."</p>

<p>The statement added, "The BJP and TDP have a very old relationship together. TDP joined the NDA in 1996 and has worked together successfully in Atal Ji's and Narendra Modi Ji's governments. In 2014, the TDP and the BJP fought the Lok Sabha election and assembly election together. The JSP had supported the 2014 general and assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh."</p>

<p>The statement further said that seat-sharing agreements would be finalised soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The developments came as TDP President and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu held meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in recent days, as the two parties worked to seal their alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wholeheartedly welcome the decision of Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/ncbn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ncbn</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/PawanKalyan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PawanKalyan</a> to join the NDA family. Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, BJP, TDP, and JSP are committed to the progress of the country and the upliftment of the state and…</p>
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (Modi Ka Parivar) (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1766444326823813561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a post on X, Nadda said, "I wholeheartedly welcome the decision of Shri Chandrababu Naidu and Shri Pawan Kalyan to join the NDA family. Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, BJP, TDP, and JSP are committed to the progress of the country and the upliftment of the state and people of Andhra Pradesh."</p>

<p>The BJP is eyeing a third term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has set a target for winning 370 seats on its own and 400 along with allies. The TDP had been a part of the NDA till 2018. However, Naidu's party left the alliance ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</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> | Hyderabad: On TDP joining NDA, TDP National Spokesperson Prem Kumar Jain says, "This is a very happy moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh that today NDA and TDP alliance has been finalised. Seeing the development program of Chandrababu Naidu, we can see our vision… <a href="https://t.co/Fl6VLzkqiE">pic.twitter.com/Fl6VLzkqiE</a></p>
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<p>Speaking to ANI, TDP national spokesperson Prem Kumar Jain said, "This is a very happy moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh that today NDA and TDP alliance has been finalised."</p>

<p>"Seeing the development programme of Chandrababu Naidu, we can see our vision come to life with double the speed after joining hands with the NDA... The last five years of Jagan Mohan Reddy's government have troubled the people of the state with the rise of land mafia, sand mafia, and all kinds of mafia..," Jain added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda announced on Saturday (Mar 9) that the BJP, Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and actor Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) would contest ensuing Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections together in Andhra Pradesh.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda announced on Saturday (Mar 9) that the BJP, Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and actor Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) would contest ensuing Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections together in Andhra Pradesh. According to a report by the news agency ANI, a joint statement from the three political parties said, "Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has been working tirelessly for the development and progress of the nation for the last 10 years and coming together with TDP and JSP will help in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Andhra Pradesh." The statement added, "The BJP and TDP have a very old relationship together. TDP joined the NDA in 1996 and has worked together successfully in Atal Ji's and Narendra Modi Ji's governments. In 2014, the TDP and the BJP fought the Lok Sabha election and assembly election together. The JSP had supported the 2014 general and assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh." The statement further said that seat-sharing agreements would be finalised soon. The developments came as TDP President and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu held meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in recent days, as the two parties worked to seal their alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. I wholeheartedly welcome the decision of Shri @ncbn and Shri @PawanKalyan to join the NDA family. Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji, BJP, TDP, and JSP are committed to the progress of the country and the upliftment of the state and… — Jagat Prakash Nadda (Modi Ka Parivar) (@JPNadda) March 9, 2024 × In a post on X, Nadda said, "I wholeheartedly welcome the decision of Shri Chandrababu Naidu and Shri Pawan Kalyan to join the NDA family. Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, BJP, TDP, and JSP are committed to the progress of the country and the upliftment of the state and people of Andhra Pradesh." The BJP is eyeing a third term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has set a target for winning 370 seats on its own and 400 along with allies. The TDP had been a part of the NDA till 2018. However, Naidu's party left the alliance ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. #WATCH | Hyderabad: On TDP joining NDA, TDP National Spokesperson Prem Kumar Jain says, "This is a very happy moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh that today NDA and TDP alliance has been finalised. Seeing the development program of Chandrababu Naidu, we can see our vision… pic.twitter.com/Fl6VLzkqiE — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2024 × Speaking to ANI, TDP national spokesperson Prem Kumar Jain said, "This is a very happy moment for the people of Andhra Pradesh that today NDA and TDP alliance has been finalised." "Seeing the development programme of Chandrababu Naidu, we can see our vision come to life with double the speed after joining hands with the NDA... The last five years of Jagan Mohan Reddy's government have troubled the people of the state with the rise of land mafia, sand mafia, and all kinds of mafia..," Jain added. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections: BJP, Chandrababu’s TDP and Pawan Kalyan’s JSP to contest Lok Sabha, Andhra polls together

<p>The negotiations between the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the ruling party of Odisha state, for a pre-poll alliance collapsed after disagreements emerged over seat sharing.</p>

<p>The stand-off erupted after both parties failed to resolve differences over two seats—Bhubaneswar and Puri.</p>

<p>The BJP said it will focus on contesting the polls in the state alone. BJP State President Manmohan Samal said, "We had gone to Delhi to hold discussions with the central leaders on our preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state. No talks on alliance or seat-sharing with any party were held during the meeting. The BJP will contest the twin polls on its own strength."</p>

<h2><strong>Disagreement over seat sharing</strong></h2>

<p>Both BJP and BJP agreed to the idea of securing a pre-poll alliance but they failed to reach an agreement over seat-sharing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJD wanted to contest over 100 seats in the 147-member Odisha Assembly, an offer that the BJP rejected vehemently. On the other hand, the BJP sought 14 out of the 21 Lok Sabha seats in Odisha, a proposition that the BJD rejected. In the 2019 general elections, the BJD had secured 12 seats, while the BJP won eight out of the total 21.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian elections 2024: Congress releases first list of candidates</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that the BJD was a part of the BJP-backed National Democratic Alliance (NDA) before it parted ways in 2009 following failed seat-sharing talks.</p>

<h2><strong>Big jolt to Congress in MP</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, India’s biggest opposition party Congress suffered a major blow in Madhya Pradesh state on Saturday (Mar 9) as former union minister and Congress leader Suresh Pachouri and former MP Gajendra Singh Rajukhedi joined the BJP.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiv95-f2-aEAxVm9jgGHUegC2wQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-what-akhilesh-is-doing-to-make-a-yadav-win-in-samajwadi-partys-strongholds-697587" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-what-akhilesh-is-doing-to-make-a-yadav-win-in-samajwadi-partys-strongholds-697587&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiv95-f2-aEAxVm9jgGHUegC2wQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Battle of the Bastions: What Akhilesh is doing to make a Yadav win in Samajwadi Party strongholds</a></strong></p>

<p>Several other leaders who were expected to join BJP are former MLAs Sanjay Shukla, Vishal Patel, former MLA from Piparia Arjun Palia, and former state NSUI president Atul Sharma.</p>

<p>The exodus from Congress comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in which more than 950 million people would vote to fill the lower house of the Indian Parliament.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The negotiations between the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the ruling party of Odisha state, for a pre-poll alliance collapsed after disagreements emerged over seat sharing.

The negotiations between the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the ruling party of Odisha state, for a pre-poll alliance collapsed after disagreements emerged over seat sharing. The stand-off erupted after both parties failed to resolve differences over two seats—Bhubaneswar and Puri. The BJP said it will focus on contesting the polls in the state alone. BJP State President Manmohan Samal said, "We had gone to Delhi to hold discussions with the central leaders on our preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state. No talks on alliance or seat-sharing with any party were held during the meeting. The BJP will contest the twin polls on its own strength." Disagreement over seat sharing Both BJP and BJP agreed to the idea of securing a pre-poll alliance but they failed to reach an agreement over seat-sharing. The BJD wanted to contest over 100 seats in the 147-member Odisha Assembly, an offer that the BJP rejected vehemently. On the other hand, the BJP sought 14 out of the 21 Lok Sabha seats in Odisha, a proposition that the BJD rejected. In the 2019 general elections, the BJD had secured 12 seats, while the BJP won eight out of the total 21. Watch: Indian elections 2024: Congress releases first list of candidates × It must be noted that the BJD was a part of the BJP-backed National Democratic Alliance (NDA) before it parted ways in 2009 following failed seat-sharing talks. Big jolt to Congress in MP Meanwhile, India’s biggest opposition party Congress suffered a major blow in Madhya Pradesh state on Saturday (Mar 9) as former union minister and Congress leader Suresh Pachouri and former MP Gajendra Singh Rajukhedi joined the BJP. Also read: Battle of the Bastions: What Akhilesh is doing to make a Yadav win in Samajwadi Party strongholds Several other leaders who were expected to join BJP are former MLAs Sanjay Shukla, Vishal Patel, former MLA from Piparia Arjun Palia, and former state NSUI president Atul Sharma. The exodus from Congress comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in which more than 950 million people would vote to fill the lower house of the Indian Parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Pre-poll alliance talks between BJP and BJD collapse

<p>Congress on Friday (March 8) released its first list of candidates for 39 Lok Sabha constituencies, a week after the Bharatiya Janta party came out with its list.</p>

<p>The announcement by the grand old party has been made for the Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshwadeep, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Telangana and Tripura.</p>

<p>Out of the total 39 candidates announced, 16 are from Kerala, seven from Karnataka,&nbsp;six from Chhattisgarh, and four from Telangana. Two from Meghalaya and one each from Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim and Lakshwadeep.</p>

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will again contest from the Wayanad constituency.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">कांग्रेस अध्यक्ष श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kharge</a> की अध्यक्षता में आयोजित 'केंद्रीय चुनाव समिति' की बैठक में लोकसभा चुनाव, 2024 के लिए 39 लोकसभा सीटों पर कांग्रेस उम्मीदवारों के नाम घोषित किए गए। <a href="https://t.co/jOQk3rycwG">pic.twitter.com/jOQk3rycwG</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1766102445833220289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is where he won the elections in the year 2019.</p>

<p>The list was announced after the party held its Central Election Committee meeting on Thursday (March 7).</p>

<p>Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said, "The central election committee of Congress has selected 39 list of candidates today. In which Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi's name is there, and Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's name is there."</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> | Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal says, "Central election committee of Congress has selected 39 list of candidates today. In which Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi's name is there, and Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's name is there..." <a href="https://t.co/lbk4ybxSep">pic.twitter.com/lbk4ybxSep</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1766100593704067232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-itat-dismisses-congress-plea-to-stay-i-t-recovery-freezing-of-bank-accounts-698068">India: Income Tax Tribunal dismisses Congress' plea to stay I-T recovery, freezing of bank accounts</a></p>

<h2><strong>Top points</strong></h2>

<p>- A total of six seats were announced from the state of Chhattisgarh</p>

<p>-Shivkumar Dahariya will contest from Jangir-Champa</p>

<p>- Jyotsana Mahant from Korba</p>

<p>- Bhupesh Baghel from Rajnandgaon</p>

<p>- Rajendra Sahu from Durg</p>

<p>- Vikas Upadhay from Raipur</p>

<p>- Tamradhwaj Sahu from Mahasamund</p>

<p>- Names for seven seats in Karnataka were also announced including DK Suresh contesting from Bengaluru Rural</p>

<p>- Anandaswamy Gaddadevara Mat will contest from Haveri in Karnataka</p>

<p>- Geetha Shivarajkumar has been fielded from Shimoga</p>

<p>- Shreyal Patel from Hassan</p>

<p>- SP Muddahanumegowda from Tumkur and Vekanataramegowda (Star Chandru) from Mandya&nbsp;</p>

<p>- 16 candidates have been announced from Kerala</p>

<p>- Shashi Tharoor will contest from Thiruvananthapuram</p>

<p>- KC Venugopal said," Out of these 39 candidates, 15 are from the General category and 24 are from SC, ST, OBC, and minorities."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress on Friday (March 8) released its first list of candidates for 39 Lok Sabha constituencies, a week after the Bharatiya Janta party came out with its list.

Congress on Friday (March 8) released its first list of candidates for 39 Lok Sabha constituencies, a week after the Bharatiya Janta party came out with its list. The announcement by the grand old party has been made for the Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshwadeep, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Telangana and Tripura. Out of the total 39 candidates announced, 16 are from Kerala, seven from Karnataka, six from Chhattisgarh, and four from Telangana. Two from Meghalaya and one each from Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim and Lakshwadeep. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will again contest from the Wayanad constituency. कांग्रेस अध्यक्ष श्री @kharge की अध्यक्षता में आयोजित 'केंद्रीय चुनाव समिति' की बैठक में लोकसभा चुनाव, 2024 के लिए 39 लोकसभा सीटों पर कांग्रेस उम्मीदवारों के नाम घोषित किए गए। pic.twitter.com/jOQk3rycwG — Congress (@INCIndia) March 8, 2024 × This is where he won the elections in the year 2019. The list was announced after the party held its Central Election Committee meeting on Thursday (March 7). Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said, "The central election committee of Congress has selected 39 list of candidates today. In which Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi's name is there, and Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's name is there." #WATCH | Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal says, "Central election committee of Congress has selected 39 list of candidates today. In which Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi's name is there, and Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's name is there..." pic.twitter.com/lbk4ybxSep — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2024 × Also read: India: Income Tax Tribunal dismisses Congress' plea to stay I-T recovery, freezing of bank accounts Top points - A total of six seats were announced from the state of Chhattisgarh -Shivkumar Dahariya will contest from Jangir-Champa - Jyotsana Mahant from Korba - Bhupesh Baghel from Rajnandgaon - Rajendra Sahu from Durg - Vikas Upadhay from Raipur - Tamradhwaj Sahu from Mahasamund - Names for seven seats in Karnataka were also announced including DK Suresh contesting from Bengaluru Rural - Anandaswamy Gaddadevara Mat will contest from Haveri in Karnataka - Geetha Shivarajkumar has been fielded from Shimoga - Shreyal Patel from Hassan - SP Muddahanumegowda from Tumkur and Vekanataramegowda (Star Chandru) from Mandya - 16 candidates have been announced from Kerala - Shashi Tharoor will contest from Thiruvananthapuram - KC Venugopal said," Out of these 39 candidates, 15 are from the General category and 24 are from SC, ST, OBC, and minorities." (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates, Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad

Allies old and new are gravitating towards the Bharatiya Janata Party boosting the ruling party's bid to meet its target in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls a new National Democratic Alliance is taking shape.

Indian elections 2024: Allies, old and new gravitate towards BJP

<p>In the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) potential reunion after 15 years, the BJP is poised to secure a larger portion of seats in the upcoming general elections of 2024, while the BJD is set to receive a major share in the assembly polls, media reports said. People familiar with the discussions pointed out that agreement&nbsp;between the two parties suggested that the BJP may contest 14 Lok Sabha seats, with the BJD contesting seven, while in the 147-member assembly, the BJD could contest 100 seats and the BJP 47.</p>

<p>This comes after reports indicated that the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre, is all set to join hands with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), a political party in India and active in the state of Odisha. It was founded in 1997 by Naveen Patnaik, the son of former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik, after he split from the Janata Dal. The party is named after Biju Patnaik, who was a prominent leader in Odisha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJD, led by CM Naveen Patnaik, has apparently concluded discussions on seat-sharing. Media reports citing people familiar with the matter suggested that the formal announcement of this alliance is expected on Saturday (Mar 9).</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/womens-day-these-daring-women-defied-odds-societal-pressures-to-serve-indian-army-697990">Women's Day - These daring women defied odds, societal pressures to serve Indian Army</a></p>

<p>This will be followed by the revelation of the seat-sharing arrangement in the upcoming week.&nbsp;BJD holds significant sway in the state, which contributes 21 members to the Lower House of Parliament.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beekeeper-nazim-nazeers-dream-selfie-with-pm-modi-goes-viral-he-credits-govt-schemes-for-business-success-697925">Nazim Nazeer's dream selfie with PM Modi goes viral, beekeeper credits govt schemes for business success</a></p>

<p>In the 2019 assembly elections, the BJD secured 112 assembly seats to form the government in Odisha. On the other hand, BJP won 23 seats, a notable increase from its 2014 tally. In the Lok Sabha elections, the BJD won 12 seats, the BJP secured eight, and the Congress clinched one.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-narendra-modi-announces-reduction-in-lpg-cylinder-price-on-the-occasion-of-womens-day-697975">PM Narendra Modi announces reduction in LPG cylinder price on the occasion of women's day</a></strong></p>

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<p>The alliance is seen as a strategic move by the BJD to consolidate its position and thwart any potential challenge to Naveen Patnaik's bid for a sixth term as Chief Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With 21 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Odisha, the BJP views this alliance as crucial in its pursuit of achieving over 400 seats for the NDA in the upcoming polls.</p>

<p>Efforts to formalise the alliance reportedly involved key figures from both parties, including PM Modi's principal secretary PK Mishra and BJD's VK Pandian, with discussions and backchannel negotiations taking place in Delhi and Odisha.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) potential reunion after 15 years, the BJP is poised to secure a larger portion of seats in the upcoming general elections of 2024, while the BJD is set to receive a major share in the assembly polls, media reports said.

In the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) potential reunion after 15 years, the BJP is poised to secure a larger portion of seats in the upcoming general elections of 2024, while the BJD is set to receive a major share in the assembly polls, media reports said. People familiar with the discussions pointed out that agreement between the two parties suggested that the BJP may contest 14 Lok Sabha seats, with the BJD contesting seven, while in the 147-member assembly, the BJD could contest 100 seats and the BJP 47. This comes after reports indicated that the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre, is all set to join hands with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), a political party in India and active in the state of Odisha. It was founded in 1997 by Naveen Patnaik, the son of former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik, after he split from the Janata Dal. The party is named after Biju Patnaik, who was a prominent leader in Odisha. The BJD, led by CM Naveen Patnaik, has apparently concluded discussions on seat-sharing. Media reports citing people familiar with the matter suggested that the formal announcement of this alliance is expected on Saturday (Mar 9). Also Read | Women's Day - These daring women defied odds, societal pressures to serve Indian Army This will be followed by the revelation of the seat-sharing arrangement in the upcoming week. BJD holds significant sway in the state, which contributes 21 members to the Lower House of Parliament. Also Read | Nazim Nazeer's dream selfie with PM Modi goes viral, beekeeper credits govt schemes for business success In the 2019 assembly elections, the BJD secured 112 assembly seats to form the government in Odisha. On the other hand, BJP won 23 seats, a notable increase from its 2014 tally. In the Lok Sabha elections, the BJD won 12 seats, the BJP secured eight, and the Congress clinched one. Watch | PM Narendra Modi announces reduction in LPG cylinder price on the occasion of women's day × The alliance is seen as a strategic move by the BJD to consolidate its position and thwart any potential challenge to Naveen Patnaik's bid for a sixth term as Chief Minister. With 21 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Odisha, the BJP views this alliance as crucial in its pursuit of achieving over 400 seats for the NDA in the upcoming polls. Efforts to formalise the alliance reportedly involved key figures from both parties, including PM Modi's principal secretary PK Mishra and BJD's VK Pandian, with discussions and backchannel negotiations taking place in Delhi and Odisha. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP, BJD strike seat-sharing deal for Lok Sabha elections: Reports

<p>India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two elections are slated to be held simultaneously in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.</p>

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<p>The TDP was earlier a part of the National Democratic Alliance, headed by the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party. However, it exited in 2018 when Naidu was the chief minister of the state.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-contest-lok-sabha-polls-from-amethi-up-congress-leader-confirms-697201">Lok Sabha polls: Rahul Gandhi to contest from Amethi and Wayanad, Priyanka to debut from Rae Bareli</a></p>

<p>BJP President JP Nadda also participated in the deliberations, as per some media reports which further hinted that the two parties are open to an alliance. However, the final decision depends on whether they are able to successfully finalise an agreeable seat-sharing arrangement.</p>

<p>However, the scope of an alliance has increased in the wake of a second meeting between the two leaders.</p>

<h2><strong>TDP leaders push for alliance with BJP&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>TDP leaders said that any further delay in the formation of an alliance would not be beneficial as the elections are just months away, and any kind of ambiguity will only confuse party workers and supporters.</p>

<p>Another Jana Sena Party, led by actor Pawan Kalyan, is a member of the NDA and has joined hands with the TDP already. The party is now appealing BJP to follow similar steps.</p>

<p>Kalyan also participated in the meeting with Amit Shah. Naidu earlier held talks with leaders, which included MPs of the TDP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-war-of-words-from-modi-to-mamata-on-sandeshkhali-697750/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The talks of the alliance are taking place amid reports that the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal, which is in power in the Indian state of Odisha, are in the final stage of entering an alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports emerged as the senior leaders of the two parties held separate meetings on Wednesday (Mar 6) and gave hints of such a possibility.</p>

<p>In February, Naidu held talks with Shah and BJP President JP Nadda which ignited speculations regarding them entering an alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the reports, the parties have been differing over the number of seats on which the BJP will fight in the state.</p>

<p>There are 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state and the BJP is willing to contest eight to 10 parliamentary constituencies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The two elections are slated to be held simultaneously in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Telugu Desam Party President N Chandrababu Naidu met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda in Delhi (07/03) pic.twitter.com/C3LWe3sNjo — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2024 × The TDP was earlier a part of the National Democratic Alliance, headed by the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party. However, it exited in 2018 when Naidu was the chief minister of the state. Also Read: Lok Sabha polls: Rahul Gandhi to contest from Amethi and Wayanad, Priyanka to debut from Rae Bareli BJP President JP Nadda also participated in the deliberations, as per some media reports which further hinted that the two parties are open to an alliance. However, the final decision depends on whether they are able to successfully finalise an agreeable seat-sharing arrangement. However, the scope of an alliance has increased in the wake of a second meeting between the two leaders. TDP leaders push for alliance with BJP TDP leaders said that any further delay in the formation of an alliance would not be beneficial as the elections are just months away, and any kind of ambiguity will only confuse party workers and supporters. Another Jana Sena Party, led by actor Pawan Kalyan, is a member of the NDA and has joined hands with the TDP already. The party is now appealing BJP to follow similar steps. Kalyan also participated in the meeting with Amit Shah. Naidu earlier held talks with leaders, which included MPs of the TDP. Watch: India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali The talks of the alliance are taking place amid reports that the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal, which is in power in the Indian state of Odisha, are in the final stage of entering an alliance. The reports emerged as the senior leaders of the two parties held separate meetings on Wednesday (Mar 6) and gave hints of such a possibility. In February, Naidu held talks with Shah and BJP President JP Nadda which ignited speculations regarding them entering an alliance. According to the reports, the parties have been differing over the number of seats on which the BJP will fight in the state. There are 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state and the BJP is willing to contest eight to 10 parliamentary constituencies. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections: BJP's Amit Shah meets TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, discuss possibility of alliance

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a significant rally in Srinagar on March 7, marking his first visit since the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

India: PM Modi to unveil infrastructure projects, address rally ahead of elections

Wednesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi fired bobs at the Trinamool Congress over the raging Sandeshkhali issue. He warns that the storm of Sandeshkhali will reach every part of West Bengal. A day later Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hit back as she led a rally of women supporters in Kolkata today.

India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy criticised the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and BJP, accusing them of scheming to topple his government. Reddy warned that those who attempt to dislodge his government would not be spared as it is a democratically-elected administration working for the people's welfare.

India Elections 2024: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy dares opposition to pull down his government

Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has hinted at rekindling ties with the BJP for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls and the assembly elections, 15 years after quitting the NDA.

India Elections 2024: 'Popular' Patnaik to return to NDA fold?

<p>The Karnataka state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (March 6) posted the pictures of Mohammad Shafi Nasipudi, one of the arrested individuals in the pro-Pakistan slogan case, alongside prominent Congress leaders on social media, criticising the party for alleged association&nbsp;with anti-national elements.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-pak-sloganeering-at-karnataka-assembly-bengaluru-police-arrest-three-in-connection-with-incident-696532" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-pak-sloganeering-at-karnataka-assembly-bengaluru-police-arrest-three-in-connection-with-incident-696532&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijjqWp1t-EAxVvyjgGHfwsCFgQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3G2akOvGRniQ2XsBVesl0O" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pro-pak-sloganeering-at-karnataka-assembly-bengaluru-police-arrest-three-in-connection-with-incident-696532" target="_blank">Bengaluru police arrest three in connection with pro-Pak sloganeering in Karnataka assembly</a></p>

<p>Accusing the Congress of forming a committee comprising individuals who raised pro-Pakistan slogans, the BJP asserted, "The arrested accused Mohammad Shafi Nasipudi has connections with Rahul Gandhi and Rajya Sabha member Syed Naseer Hussain.&nbsp;He also holds the capacity to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at will."</p>

<p>The BJP expressed concerns on social media about Congress leaders' inability to protect Nasipudi, a purported member of the alleged anti-national committee, and accompanied the statement with published photographs featuring Nasipudi alongside CM Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM Shivakumar, AICC Media and PR in-charge Pavan Khera, KPCC Working President and MLC Saleem Ahmad, and Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi.</p>

<p>In response to the BJP's assertions, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking in Sirsi town of Uttara Kannada district, stated, "The government will not endorse the FSL test report by a private entity. The police department's report regarding the pro-Pakistan slogan case is final. BJP has publicised a private FSL report, misleading the public."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-alleges-congress-mps-raised-pro-pakistan-slogans-after-rajya-sabha-victory-694551" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-alleges-congress-mps-raised-pro-pakistan-slogans-after-rajya-sabha-victory-694551&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijjqWp1t-EAxVvyjgGHfwsCFgQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1v6GcGsbMrs29TUW1TNeui" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-alleges-congress-mps-raised-pro-pakistan-slogans-after-rajya-sabha-victory-694551" target="_blank">BJP alleges Congress MPs raised&nbsp;<b>pro</b>-<b>Pakistan slogans</b></a></p>

<p>Deputy CM Shivakumar addressed the ongoing attacks by the BJP, asserting, "During our government, the investigation was initiated. However, the BJP did not investigate the incident of pro-Pakistan slogan raising during its tenure."</p>

<p>He questioned why the BJP government did not arrest its workers when they raised pro-Pakistan slogans, emphasising that the matter is now under investigation following a police complaint filed by a local MLA.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, BJP Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka released a photograph of another accused, Mohammad Iltaz, arrested in the pro-Pakistan slogan case, alongside Rahul Gandhi.</p>

<p>On Monday (March 4), Union Minister Anurag Thakur criticised the Congress, questioning why the party defended individuals who raised pro-Pakistan slogans at the Karnataka assembly premises following Syed Naseer Hussain's election to the Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-rajya-sabha-coup-bjp-gears-for-usurping-power-in-himachal-pradesh-assembly-694597">After Rajya Sabha steal, BJP gears up to vote out Congress govt in Himachal Pradesh</a></p>

<p>Thakur's remarks followed the arrest of three individuals by Karnataka Police for raising such slogans on February 27 within the Vidhan Soudha premises.</p>

<p>He raised concerns about the Congress leadership's role in protecting these individuals, particularly after forensic analysis validated the authenticity of the video footage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Karnataka state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (March 6) posted the pictures of Mohammad Shafi Nasipudi, one of the arrested individuals in the pro-Pakistan slogan case, alongside prominent Congress leaders on social media, criticising the party for alleged association with anti-national elements.

The Karnataka state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (March 6) posted the pictures of Mohammad Shafi Nasipudi, one of the arrested individuals in the pro-Pakistan slogan case, alongside prominent Congress leaders on social media, criticising the party for alleged association with anti-national elements. Also read: Bengaluru police arrest three in connection with pro-Pak sloganeering in Karnataka assembly Accusing the Congress of forming a committee comprising individuals who raised pro-Pakistan slogans, the BJP asserted, "The arrested accused Mohammad Shafi Nasipudi has connections with Rahul Gandhi and Rajya Sabha member Syed Naseer Hussain. He also holds the capacity to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at will." The BJP expressed concerns on social media about Congress leaders' inability to protect Nasipudi, a purported member of the alleged anti-national committee, and accompanied the statement with published photographs featuring Nasipudi alongside CM Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM Shivakumar, AICC Media and PR in-charge Pavan Khera, KPCC Working President and MLC Saleem Ahmad, and Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi. In response to the BJP's assertions, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking in Sirsi town of Uttara Kannada district, stated, "The government will not endorse the FSL test report by a private entity. The police department's report regarding the pro-Pakistan slogan case is final. BJP has publicised a private FSL report, misleading the public." Also read: BJP alleges Congress MPs raised pro-Pakistan slogans Deputy CM Shivakumar addressed the ongoing attacks by the BJP, asserting, "During our government, the investigation was initiated. However, the BJP did not investigate the incident of pro-Pakistan slogan raising during its tenure." He questioned why the BJP government did not arrest its workers when they raised pro-Pakistan slogans, emphasising that the matter is now under investigation following a police complaint filed by a local MLA. Meanwhile, BJP Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka released a photograph of another accused, Mohammad Iltaz, arrested in the pro-Pakistan slogan case, alongside Rahul Gandhi. On Monday (March 4), Union Minister Anurag Thakur criticised the Congress, questioning why the party defended individuals who raised pro-Pakistan slogans at the Karnataka assembly premises following Syed Naseer Hussain's election to the Rajya Sabha. Also read: After Rajya Sabha steal, BJP gears up to vote out Congress govt in Himachal Pradesh Thakur's remarks followed the arrest of three individuals by Karnataka Police for raising such slogans on February 27 within the Vidhan Soudha premises. He raised concerns about the Congress leadership's role in protecting these individuals, particularly after forensic analysis validated the authenticity of the video footage. (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Pak slogan case: BJP releases images of accused alongside key Congress leaders

Modi in Kashmir: Indian PM to address rally, unveil infrastructure projects in Srinagar

<p>Former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay on Thursday (Mar 7) joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Indian general elections. His decision to leave the courtroom was largely slammed by opposition parties, including the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), whom Gangopadhyay is known for having fierce conflicts with.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Overwhelming’</strong></h2>

<p>“Today’s joining is nice. The way they have welcomed me is overwhelming...Everybody knows corruption is to be fought,” Gangopadhyay told news agency ANI after he joined the party and was welcomed by West Bengal BJP Chief Sukanta Majumdar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Indian PM Modi meets with women victims from Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-meets-with-women-victims-from-sandeshkhali-village-in-west-bengal-697210/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Gangopadhyay, who is likely to compete in the upcoming general elections, has had several disputes with the state’s ruling party TMC because of some of his rulings in cases of corruption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>West Bengal’s ruling party after the now-former Calcutta HC judge announced that he would join politics alleged that Gangopadhyay was a “political worker” and his decision laid bare his anti-TMC bias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about the violence in the West Bengal village of Sandeshkhali, Gangopadhyay told ANI, “It is a very bad incident.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The state leaders have gone there. They have been prevented from reaching there. Despite that, they have reached and stood beside the women there and BJP is taking up the cause of oppressed people in Sandeshkhali.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abhijit-gangopadhyay-resigns-as-calcutta-high-court-judge-to-join-bjp-696848">Abhijit Gangopadhyay resigns as Calcutta High Court judge, to join BJP</a></strong></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Mar 6) met the women who have alleged sexual assault by suspended TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan in Sandeshkhali.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sandeshkhali has witnessed unrest for months now after several women accused a local TMC leader who was arrested after being on the run for several weeks, on February 29.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gangopadhyay was formally inducted into BJP on Thursday, by Majumdar and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, in Kolkata.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As a State President of BJP I welcome former Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay to our party, to the family of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” said the West Bengal BJP chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I believe the way he has worked as a Justice for deprived, exploited victims of Bengal, he will carry forward that work with the leadership of the BJP.”</p>

<h2><strong>Why is Gangopadhyay joining politics?</strong></h2>

<p>The former Calcutta HC justice’s decision over the past few days has made headlines recently with both BJP and Congress welcoming him to join their party and TMC criticising him and accusing him of bias.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-shiv-sena-ubt-chief-sanjay-raut-slams-calcutta-high-court-judge-over-aspirations-to-join-politics-696596">&nbsp;India: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics</a></strong></p>

<p>Gangopadhyay said West Bengal state was reeling under extreme corruption and he was not able to use the courtroom to reach out to common people.</p>

<p>“I felt that I had done enough work there (in judiciary), but some work is set to be done for people who cannot go to the court or do not have the resources to go to the court,” Gangopadhyay said after announcing his decision to join BJP, on Tuesday (Mar 5).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “They are very helpless, and I should help them with the little resources I have for them, and that's why I have decided to join politics.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay on Thursday (Mar 7) joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Indian general elections.

Former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay on Thursday (Mar 7) joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Indian general elections. His decision to leave the courtroom was largely slammed by opposition parties, including the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), whom Gangopadhyay is known for having fierce conflicts with. ‘Overwhelming’ “Today’s joining is nice. The way they have welcomed me is overwhelming...Everybody knows corruption is to be fought,” Gangopadhyay told news agency ANI after he joined the party and was welcomed by West Bengal BJP Chief Sukanta Majumdar. WATCH | Indian PM Modi meets with women victims from Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal Gangopadhyay, who is likely to compete in the upcoming general elections, has had several disputes with the state’s ruling party TMC because of some of his rulings in cases of corruption. West Bengal’s ruling party after the now-former Calcutta HC judge announced that he would join politics alleged that Gangopadhyay was a “political worker” and his decision laid bare his anti-TMC bias. When asked about the violence in the West Bengal village of Sandeshkhali, Gangopadhyay told ANI, “It is a very bad incident.” He added, “The state leaders have gone there. They have been prevented from reaching there. Despite that, they have reached and stood beside the women there and BJP is taking up the cause of oppressed people in Sandeshkhali.” Also Read | Abhijit Gangopadhyay resigns as Calcutta High Court judge, to join BJP Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Mar 6) met the women who have alleged sexual assault by suspended TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan in Sandeshkhali. Sandeshkhali has witnessed unrest for months now after several women accused a local TMC leader who was arrested after being on the run for several weeks, on February 29. Gangopadhyay was formally inducted into BJP on Thursday, by Majumdar and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, in Kolkata. “As a State President of BJP I welcome former Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay to our party, to the family of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” said the West Bengal BJP chief. He added, “I believe the way he has worked as a Justice for deprived, exploited victims of Bengal, he will carry forward that work with the leadership of the BJP.” Why is Gangopadhyay joining politics? The former Calcutta HC justice’s decision over the past few days has made headlines recently with both BJP and Congress welcoming him to join their party and TMC criticising him and accusing him of bias. Also Read | India: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics Gangopadhyay said West Bengal state was reeling under extreme corruption and he was not able to use the courtroom to reach out to common people. “I felt that I had done enough work there (in judiciary), but some work is set to be done for people who cannot go to the court or do not have the resources to go to the court,” Gangopadhyay said after announcing his decision to join BJP, on Tuesday (Mar 5). He added, “They are very helpless, and I should help them with the little resources I have for them, and that's why I have decided to join politics.” (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay joins BJP

Modi in Kashmir: PM Modi visits Srinagar, first since Kashmir autonomy removed in 2019

<p>A senior leader A Raja from DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), a prominent political party in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, has ignited a political furore with his comments on Lord Ram. In a speech, the leader reportedly said, “If you say it's this God, this is Jai Sri Ram, this is Bharat Mata ki Jai, then we and Tamil Nadu will never accept Bharat Mata and Jai Shri Ram….Tamil Nadu won’t accept. You go and tell, we’re enemies of Ram."&nbsp;</p>

<p>These remarks have triggered a fresh confrontation of the DMK, which is part of the INDIA alliance, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The party at the Centre accused Raja of advocating the "Balkanisation of India".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The head of BJP's IT cell Amit Malviya shared a translation of A Raja's speech made in Madurai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India is not a nation. Understand this well. India is never a nation. One nation means one language, one tradition and one culture. Then only it is one nation. India is not a nation but a subcontinent. What's the reason? Here, Tamil is one nation and one country. Malayalam is one language, one nation and one country. Oriya is a nation, a language and a country. All these nations make up India," the statement from Raja's speech reportedly read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-navy-swiftly-responds-to-rescue-ship-under-drone-attack-in-gulf-of-aden-saves-13-indians-696974">WATCH: Indian Navy 'swiftly responds' to rescue ship under drone attack in Gulf of Aden, saves 13 Indians</a></p>

<p>"So, India is not a country it is a subcontinent. There are so many traditions and cultures. If you come to Tamil Nadu, there's a culture. In Kerala, there's another culture. In Delhi, there's another culture. In Oriya, there's another culture. Why in Manipur, as RS Bharathi said, they eat dog meat. Yes, it is true, they eat. That's a culture. There's nothing wrong. It's all in our mind," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raja's remarks prompted strong reactions from the Congress camp as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate condemned Raja's statement. She said that Ram belongs to everyone while also urging restraint in public discourse.</p>

<h2><strong>Remarks on&nbsp;Sanatana Dharma</strong></h2>

<p>This is not an isolated incident where the DMK party has found itself in a political crossfire. Earlier, leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's comments on Sanatana Dharma triggered a controversy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-crisis-in-bengaluru-housing-society-implements-fine-for-water-misuse-696963">Water Crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Tamil Nadu's Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports, a prominent figure in the film industry, and the son of Chief Minister M K Stalin,&nbsp;Udhayanidhi Stalin,&nbsp;during a conference in September 2023, expressed his views on Sanatana Dharma.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-saves-ship-udner-missile-attack-in-gulf-of-aden-defence-min-rajnath-singh-lauds-navy-697036">Indian Navy saves ship under missile attack in Gulf of Aden, Defence Min Rajnath Singh lauds Navy</a></strong></p>

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<p>He stated that Sanatana Dharma opposes principles of social justice and equality.&nbsp;“Just like dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or coronavirus need to be eradicated, we have to eradicate Sanatana,” he had said at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A senior leader A Raja from DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), a prominent political party in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, has ignited a political furore with his comments on Lord Ram.

A senior leader A Raja from DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), a prominent political party in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, has ignited a political furore with his comments on Lord Ram. In a speech, the leader reportedly said, “If you say it's this God, this is Jai Sri Ram, this is Bharat Mata ki Jai, then we and Tamil Nadu will never accept Bharat Mata and Jai Shri Ram….Tamil Nadu won’t accept. You go and tell, we’re enemies of Ram." These remarks have triggered a fresh confrontation of the DMK, which is part of the INDIA alliance, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The party at the Centre accused Raja of advocating the "Balkanisation of India". The head of BJP's IT cell Amit Malviya shared a translation of A Raja's speech made in Madurai. "India is not a nation. Understand this well. India is never a nation. One nation means one language, one tradition and one culture. Then only it is one nation. India is not a nation but a subcontinent. What's the reason? Here, Tamil is one nation and one country. Malayalam is one language, one nation and one country. Oriya is a nation, a language and a country. All these nations make up India," the statement from Raja's speech reportedly read. Also Read | WATCH: Indian Navy 'swiftly responds' to rescue ship under drone attack in Gulf of Aden, saves 13 Indians "So, India is not a country it is a subcontinent. There are so many traditions and cultures. If you come to Tamil Nadu, there's a culture. In Kerala, there's another culture. In Delhi, there's another culture. In Oriya, there's another culture. Why in Manipur, as RS Bharathi said, they eat dog meat. Yes, it is true, they eat. That's a culture. There's nothing wrong. It's all in our mind," it added. Raja's remarks prompted strong reactions from the Congress camp as well. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate condemned Raja's statement. She said that Ram belongs to everyone while also urging restraint in public discourse. Remarks on Sanatana Dharma This is not an isolated incident where the DMK party has found itself in a political crossfire. Earlier, leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's comments on Sanatana Dharma triggered a controversy. Also Read | Water Crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse Tamil Nadu's Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports, a prominent figure in the film industry, and the son of Chief Minister M K Stalin, Udhayanidhi Stalin, during a conference in September 2023, expressed his views on Sanatana Dharma. Watch | Indian Navy saves ship under missile attack in Gulf of Aden, Defence Min Rajnath Singh lauds Navy × He stated that Sanatana Dharma opposes principles of social justice and equality. “Just like dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or coronavirus need to be eradicated, we have to eradicate Sanatana,” he had said at the time. (With inputs from agencies)

India: DMK's A Raja says 'we're enemies of Ram' in speech, BJP fires back

The Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign has now entered the battleground of Bengal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his third rally in six days. This rally in West Bengal's Barasat witnessed a sea of women supporters and a flood of attacks on the Trinamool Congress.

Sea of supporters & flood of attacks as PM Modi attempts to woo women voters

Another news an objectionable video of a man in a compromising position with a woman has surfaced on social media while the man in the video appears to have a resemblance to BJP MP Upendra Singh Rawat. Upendra Singh Rawat sitting MP says it's a deep fake created and circulated to tarnish his image.

Deepfake: AI endangering online identity of MPs

The Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign has now entered the battleground of Bengal Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his third rally in six days. This rally in West Bengal's Barasat witnessed a sea of women supporters and a flood of attacks on the Trinamool Congress.

Indian elections 2024: BJP campaign enters the battleground of Bengal

DMK MP A Raja said that India is not a nation but a subcontinent, and claimed that Tamil Nadu will never accept slogans of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Bharat Mata ki jai’. Watch in for more details!

BJP slams DMK MP A Raja for ‘India not a nation’ remarks

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah held meetings on Tuesday with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, and other leaders to discuss seat-sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

BJP finalises Maharashtra seat-sharing deal with allies

<p>India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said&nbsp;his clinic awaits his return.</p>

<p>The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Mar 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>The ruling party dropped four sitting MPs - Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and Meenakshi Lekhi in Delhi, choosing new faces.</p>

<p>In a long farewell message that he shared on his official X handle, Vardhan said that he would go back to his "roots" and continue making efforts "against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and…</p>
— Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/1764196695426974120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and centre I finally bow out to return to my roots," he said.</p>

<p>"Service to mankind was my motto when I joined MBBS in GSVM Medical College, Kanpur fifty years back with a desire to help the poor and needy. A swayamsewak at heart, I have always been an ardent admirer of Deen Dayal Upadhyay ji's Antodaya philosophy of striving to serve the last man in the queue. It was at the insistence of the then RSS leadership that I jumped into the electoral fray. They could convince me only because for me politics meant opportunity to fight our three main enemies - poverty, disease and ignorance," he added.</p>

<p>The former minister's post added: "Without remorse, I must say that it has been a marvelous innings during which my passion to serve the common man was quenched. I served as Delhi Health Minister as well as twice Union Health Minister, a subject close to my heart. I had the rare opportunity bestowed upon me to be able to first work towards creating a Polio free Bharat and then to take care of the health of millions of our countrymen grappling with the dreaded COVID-19 during its first and second phases".</p>

<p>"In the long history of mankind, only a few have been granted the privilege to defend their people in hours of gravest danger! And I can proudly claim that I didn't shirk responsibility, but welcomed it. My gratitude to Ma Bharati, my reverence to my fellow citizens and my obeisance to the values enshrined in our Constitution. And yes, that was the biggest privilege that Bhagwan Shri Ram bestowed upon me, the privilege of being able to save human lives !!,"&nbsp;Harsh Vardhan said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would like to thank all my party karyakartas, my fans and supporters amongst the common citizens as well as my party leaders .. all of whom have contributed to this remarkable journey spanning over three decades," he wrote.</p>

<p>"I must acknowledge that I consider it a great privilege to have worked closely with the most dynamic Prime Minister in India's history, Shri Narendra Modi ji. The country wishes him a heroic return to power again."</p>

<p>"I shall continue to pursue my work against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles. A big shout out for all those who stood by me like a rock while I clocked many firsts and led a fulfilled political life," he wrote.</p>

<p>"I move on, I really can't wait. I have promises to keep .. and miles to go before I sleep !! I have a dream .. and I know your blessings shall always remain with me. My ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar too awaits my return," he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2024-bjp-releases-first-list-of-195-candidates-pm-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-695970">Also read:&nbsp;Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi</a><br />
<br />
The announcement soon drew appreciation from a bevy of political leaders and Twitterati who praised the popular leader for gracefully retiring from politics and for his dedication to serving humanity.</p>

<h2><strong>Jayant Sinha, Gautam Gambhir request BJP to relieve them from political duties</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, BJP leader Jayant Sinha and former World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir requested the party to relieve them from political duties.</p>

<p>Sinha, stating that he wished to focus on efforts to combat climate change, requested party president JP Nadda to relieve him of "direct electoral duties".</p>

<p>Taking to his official social media handle he wrote, "I have requested Hon'ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance issues. I have had the privilege of serving the people of Bharat and Hazaribagh for the past 10 years."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have requested Hon’ble Party President Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance…</p>
— Jayant Sinha (@jayantsinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/jayantsinha/status/1763854032861327747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir stated that he wanted to focus on his upcoming cricket commitments.</p>

<p>“I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his official X handle. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have requested Hon’ble Party President <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and Hon’ble HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1763785102268772777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some reports say that both the MPs were not very popular in their respective constituencies and the party had made it clear that the MPs who did not perform as per expectations would not be included in the list this time.</p>

<p>Which is why the move seems like a dignified exit for the leaders, the reports added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said his clinic awaits his return.

India's former health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics. A doctor by profession, Vardhan said his clinic awaits his return. The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Mar 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The ruling party dropped four sitting MPs - Harsh Vardhan, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri and Meenakshi Lekhi in Delhi, choosing new faces. In a long farewell message that he shared on his official X handle, Vardhan said that he would go back to his "roots" and continue making efforts "against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles." After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and… — Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) March 3, 2024 × "After over thirty years of a glorious electoral career, during which I won all the five assembly and two parliamentary elections that I fought with exemplary margins, and held a multitude of prestigious positions in the party organisation and the governments at the state and centre I finally bow out to return to my roots," he said. "Service to mankind was my motto when I joined MBBS in GSVM Medical College, Kanpur fifty years back with a desire to help the poor and needy. A swayamsewak at heart, I have always been an ardent admirer of Deen Dayal Upadhyay ji's Antodaya philosophy of striving to serve the last man in the queue. It was at the insistence of the then RSS leadership that I jumped into the electoral fray. They could convince me only because for me politics meant opportunity to fight our three main enemies - poverty, disease and ignorance," he added. The former minister's post added: "Without remorse, I must say that it has been a marvelous innings during which my passion to serve the common man was quenched. I served as Delhi Health Minister as well as twice Union Health Minister, a subject close to my heart. I had the rare opportunity bestowed upon me to be able to first work towards creating a Polio free Bharat and then to take care of the health of millions of our countrymen grappling with the dreaded COVID-19 during its first and second phases". "In the long history of mankind, only a few have been granted the privilege to defend their people in hours of gravest danger! And I can proudly claim that I didn't shirk responsibility, but welcomed it. My gratitude to Ma Bharati, my reverence to my fellow citizens and my obeisance to the values enshrined in our Constitution. And yes, that was the biggest privilege that Bhagwan Shri Ram bestowed upon me, the privilege of being able to save human lives !!," Harsh Vardhan said. Watch: BJP finalises its first 195 candidates from 16 states for Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | BJP Candidate List × "I would like to thank all my party karyakartas, my fans and supporters amongst the common citizens as well as my party leaders .. all of whom have contributed to this remarkable journey spanning over three decades," he wrote. "I must acknowledge that I consider it a great privilege to have worked closely with the most dynamic Prime Minister in India's history, Shri Narendra Modi ji. The country wishes him a heroic return to power again." "I shall continue to pursue my work against tobacco and substance abuse, against climate change and teaching simple and sustainable lifestyles. A big shout out for all those who stood by me like a rock while I clocked many firsts and led a fulfilled political life," he wrote. "I move on, I really can't wait. I have promises to keep .. and miles to go before I sleep !! I have a dream .. and I know your blessings shall always remain with me. My ENT clinic at Krishna Nagar too awaits my return," he said. Also read: Lok Sabha polls 2024: BJP releases first list of 195 candidates, PM Modi to contest from Varanasi The announcement soon drew appreciation from a bevy of political leaders and Twitterati who praised the popular leader for gracefully retiring from politics and for his dedication to serving humanity. Jayant Sinha, Gautam Gambhir request BJP to relieve them from political duties Earlier, BJP leader Jayant Sinha and former World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir requested the party to relieve them from political duties. Sinha, stating that he wished to focus on efforts to combat climate change, requested party president JP Nadda to relieve him of "direct electoral duties". Taking to his official social media handle he wrote, "I have requested Hon'ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance issues. I have had the privilege of serving the people of Bharat and Hazaribagh for the past 10 years." I have requested Hon’ble Party President Shri @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my direct electoral duties so that I can focus my efforts on combating global climate change in Bharat and around the world. Of course, I will continue to work with the party on economic and governance… — Jayant Sinha (@jayantsinha) March 2, 2024 × Gambhir stated that he wanted to focus on his upcoming cricket commitments. “I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his official X handle. I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind! — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 2, 2024 × Some reports say that both the MPs were not very popular in their respective constituencies and the party had made it clear that the MPs who did not perform as per expectations would not be included in the list this time. Which is why the move seems like a dignified exit for the leaders, the reports added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former health minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’

<p>Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Sunday (March 3) came down heavily on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stating that he was never abused by RJD when he previously broke the alliance with them in the year 2017.</p>

<p>He then questioned Kumar's decision to return to the NDA fold asking if he ever feels ashamed about the way he keeps changing sides.</p>

<p>While addressing the party's 'Jan Vishwas Maha Rally' in Patna, Yadav said, "We never abused him when he broke alliance with us. We just called him Paltu-Ram at that time. But we made the same mistake again, and Tejashwi made the same mistake again. We knew something was happening in Raj Bhawan. There was nothing wrong with that government (previous Bihar govt). Does he not feel ashamed?"</p>

<p>He then appealed to the public to make the BJP lose in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls stating that the opinion of Bihar resonates with that of the country.</p>

<p>"Bihar has given lots of great personalities. In the same Gandhi Maidan, leaders of the country have held rallies and meetings. A message went to the whole country from here. Bihar's opinion has so much power that the people of the country imitate what Bihar decides. Tomorrow also, the same is going to happen," he said.</p>

<p>Opposition leaders such as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav were also present at the RJD's 'Jan Vishwas Maha Rally'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-former-health-minister-harsh-vardhan-quits-politics-says-my-clinic-awaits-my-return-696193">Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former Health Minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Who will take guarantee of Nitish Kumar,' says RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav</strong></h2>

<p>RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also slammed the Bihar CM over repeatedly changing sides stating that the state government should get an insurance done because of JD-U chief Kumar's repeated U-turns.</p>

<p>"They (BJP) say 'Modi ki Guarantee', but who will take the guarantee of Nitish Kumar? They accuse us of nepotism&nbsp;but they have Samrat Choudhary, brother of Ram Vilas Paswan, Manjhi ji's son has been made minister, it doesn't look like any nepotism to them," Tejashwi said.</p>

<p>"Due to the U-turn taken by Nitish Kumar, it seems that the state government should get its insurance done. They say Modi ki Guarantee, but who will take the guarantee of Nitish Kumar," he said a day after PM Modi accused Congress-RJD of nepotism.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Sunday (March 3) came down heavily on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stating that he was never abused by RJD when he previously broke the alliance with them in the year 2017.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Sunday (March 3) came down heavily on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stating that he was never abused by RJD when he previously broke the alliance with them in the year 2017. He then questioned Kumar's decision to return to the NDA fold asking if he ever feels ashamed about the way he keeps changing sides. While addressing the party's 'Jan Vishwas Maha Rally' in Patna, Yadav said, "We never abused him when he broke alliance with us. We just called him Paltu-Ram at that time. But we made the same mistake again, and Tejashwi made the same mistake again. We knew something was happening in Raj Bhawan. There was nothing wrong with that government (previous Bihar govt). Does he not feel ashamed?" He then appealed to the public to make the BJP lose in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls stating that the opinion of Bihar resonates with that of the country. "Bihar has given lots of great personalities. In the same Gandhi Maidan, leaders of the country have held rallies and meetings. A message went to the whole country from here. Bihar's opinion has so much power that the people of the country imitate what Bihar decides. Tomorrow also, the same is going to happen," he said. Opposition leaders such as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav were also present at the RJD's 'Jan Vishwas Maha Rally'. Also read: Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former Health Minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’ 'Who will take guarantee of Nitish Kumar,' says RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also slammed the Bihar CM over repeatedly changing sides stating that the state government should get an insurance done because of JD-U chief Kumar's repeated U-turns. "They (BJP) say 'Modi ki Guarantee', but who will take the guarantee of Nitish Kumar? They accuse us of nepotism but they have Samrat Choudhary, brother of Ram Vilas Paswan, Manjhi ji's son has been made minister, it doesn't look like any nepotism to them," Tejashwi said. "Due to the U-turn taken by Nitish Kumar, it seems that the state government should get its insurance done. They say Modi ki Guarantee, but who will take the guarantee of Nitish Kumar," he said a day after PM Modi accused Congress-RJD of nepotism. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Does he not feel ashamed?’ Lalu Prasad Yadav comes down heavily on Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

<p>Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an&nbsp;MP of&nbsp;Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadda has resigned from Himachal Pradesh and he was among 57 Rajya Sabha MPs whose tenure was ending next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This announcement comes days after he was elected to the Upper House from Gujarat unopposed. Jasvantsinh Parmar, Mayank Nayak and diamond baron Govindbhai Dholakia were among other BJP nominees who were also declared winners from Gujarat state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-shiv-sena-ubt-chief-sanjay-raut-slams-calcutta-high-court-judge-over-aspirations-to-join-politics-696596">Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The BJP chief said that his resignation was accepted by the Rajya Sabha chairman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, an elected member of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), representing the State of Himachal Pradesh, resigned his seat in the Rajya Sabha and his resignation has been accepted by the Chairman, Rajya Sabha w.e.f 4th March, 2024," a Rajya Sabha parliamentary bulletin read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have claimed&nbsp;that he might contest the upcoming Indian General Election.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BJP National President JP Nadda resigns from his position as Rajya Sabha MP and his resignation has been accepted by Rajya Sabha Chairman <a href="https://t.co/Nvr8Pg1pFU">pic.twitter.com/Nvr8Pg1pFU</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1764667083231486463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-jp-nadda-resigns-from-upper-house-of-parliament-ahead-of-indian-general-election-696533">BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>BJP's preparation for the Lok Sabha Elections&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>BJP on Saturday released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The list included 47 youth candidates and 28 women candidates. A total of 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) faces, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class nominees have been added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fight the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi, meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi chaired a day-long meeting with his Council of Ministers and told them: "Go, win. I will see you soon".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The key meeting was held to discuss the vision document 'Viksit Bharat 2047' as well as to debate a specific action plan for the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</i></p>


Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an MP of Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an MP of Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Nadda has resigned from Himachal Pradesh and he was among 57 Rajya Sabha MPs whose tenure was ending next month. This announcement comes days after he was elected to the Upper House from Gujarat unopposed. Jasvantsinh Parmar, Mayank Nayak and diamond baron Govindbhai Dholakia were among other BJP nominees who were also declared winners from Gujarat state. Also read: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics The BJP chief said that his resignation was accepted by the Rajya Sabha chairman. "Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, an elected member of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), representing the State of Himachal Pradesh, resigned his seat in the Rajya Sabha and his resignation has been accepted by the Chairman, Rajya Sabha w.e.f 4th March, 2024," a Rajya Sabha parliamentary bulletin read. Reports have claimed that he might contest the upcoming Indian General Election. BJP National President JP Nadda resigns from his position as Rajya Sabha MP and his resignation has been accepted by Rajya Sabha Chairman pic.twitter.com/Nvr8Pg1pFU — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2024 × Also read: BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election BJP's preparation for the Lok Sabha Elections BJP on Saturday released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The list included 47 youth candidates and 28 women candidates. A total of 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) faces, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class nominees have been added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fight the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi, meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar. PM Modi chaired a day-long meeting with his Council of Ministers and told them: "Go, win. I will see you soon". The key meeting was held to discuss the vision document 'Viksit Bharat 2047' as well as to debate a specific action plan for the next five years. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of parliament ahead of Indian general election

<p>Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, on Tuesday (Mar 5) defended his father RJD supremo Lalu Yadav’s dig at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not having a family and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of distracting the public ahead of the upcoming general elections with “Modi ka Parivar (Modi’s family)” rhetoric.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tejashwi defends Lalu’s remarks against PM</strong></h2>

<p>The former chief minister of the Indian state of Bihar, sarcastically said how he is glad that his father’s words have caused such a big impact, adding “But what about issues like poverty and unemployment that he had raised? He spoke of so many things.”</p>

<p>During a rally over the weekend, Lalu had said PM Modi “has no family and is neither a Hindu”. Since then several BJP leaders added ‘Modi ka Parivaar’ as a suffix on their social media account names to show solidarity with the Indian PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nobody-will-be-able-to-touch-even-a-hair-of-pm-smriti-irani-on-lalu-yadavs-parivaar-jibe-696710">'Nobody will be able to touch even a hair of PM': Smriti Irani on Lalu Yadav's 'parivaar' jibe</a></strong></p>

<p>“The PM claims that he treats the entire nation as his family. If that is so, why did his government try to crush, so brutally, the recent farmers’ protests in Delhi?” said Tejashwi, as quoted by news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tejashwi also defended his father’s remarks about Modi not being “a true Hindu” saying that he did not shave his hair and beard after the death of his mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are a devout Hindu family with a temple at our home where 'aarti' is performed every morning and evening. I got my daughter undergo the mundan (tonsure) ceremony. Why the PM chose not to follow the well established tradition, is for him to answer,” said the RJD leader.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi reacts to Lalu’s remarks</strong></h2>

<p>“When I oppose familism and say that it is against democracy and not allowing new talent to emerge, they say ‘Modi has no family’. Do they have the license to steal?,” said the Indian PM as he inaugurated multiple development projects in the Indian state of Telangana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I have seen CMs who have family members on high posts in their respective states. Is this democracy? They say their fight is against Modi’s ideology.”</p>

<p>“They say Modi has no family. Is this an ideological battle? I will tell you what an ideological battle is - they say family first, Modi says nation first,” said the Indian PM.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lalu’s comments sparks outrage</strong></h2>

<p>RJD supremo’s remarks have sparked an outrage among BJP ministers who have slammed Lalu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-deputy-cm-dk-shivakumar-receive-bomb-threat-via-email-696887">Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah &amp; Deputy CM DK Shivakumar receive bomb threat via email</a></strong></p>

<p>India’s Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, speaking at a gathering on Monday (Mar 4) said not only 1.4 billion Indians, but the country’s youth and party workers are “Modi’s parivaar”.</p>

<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Tuesday (Mar 5) also said she did not expect such remarks from a senior leader like Lalu and called them highly condemnable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He (Lalu) has spent decades in politics and was also CM of the state,” said Sitharaman. She added, “People don’t expect such comments from a senior leader like him. It disheartens the people. One has to maintain dignity in politics.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, on Tuesday (Mar 5) defended his father RJD supremo Lalu Yadav’s dig at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not having a family and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of distracting the public ahead of the upcoming general elections with “Modi ka Parivar (Modi’s family)” rhetoric.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, on Tuesday (Mar 5) defended his father RJD supremo Lalu Yadav’s dig at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not having a family and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of distracting the public ahead of the upcoming general elections with “Modi ka Parivar (Modi’s family)” rhetoric. Tejashwi defends Lalu’s remarks against PM The former chief minister of the Indian state of Bihar, sarcastically said how he is glad that his father’s words have caused such a big impact, adding “But what about issues like poverty and unemployment that he had raised? He spoke of so many things.” During a rally over the weekend, Lalu had said PM Modi “has no family and is neither a Hindu”. Since then several BJP leaders added ‘Modi ka Parivaar’ as a suffix on their social media account names to show solidarity with the Indian PM. Also Read | 'Nobody will be able to touch even a hair of PM': Smriti Irani on Lalu Yadav's 'parivaar' jibe “The PM claims that he treats the entire nation as his family. If that is so, why did his government try to crush, so brutally, the recent farmers’ protests in Delhi?” said Tejashwi, as quoted by news agency PTI. Tejashwi also defended his father’s remarks about Modi not being “a true Hindu” saying that he did not shave his hair and beard after the death of his mother. “We are a devout Hindu family with a temple at our home where 'aarti' is performed every morning and evening. I got my daughter undergo the mundan (tonsure) ceremony. Why the PM chose not to follow the well established tradition, is for him to answer,” said the RJD leader. PM Modi reacts to Lalu’s remarks “When I oppose familism and say that it is against democracy and not allowing new talent to emerge, they say ‘Modi has no family’. Do they have the license to steal?,” said the Indian PM as he inaugurated multiple development projects in the Indian state of Telangana. He added, “I have seen CMs who have family members on high posts in their respective states. Is this democracy? They say their fight is against Modi’s ideology.” “They say Modi has no family. Is this an ideological battle? I will tell you what an ideological battle is - they say family first, Modi says nation first,” said the Indian PM. Lalu’s comments sparks outrage RJD supremo’s remarks have sparked an outrage among BJP ministers who have slammed Lalu. Also Read | Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah & Deputy CM DK Shivakumar receive bomb threat via email India’s Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, speaking at a gathering on Monday (Mar 4) said not only 1.4 billion Indians, but the country’s youth and party workers are “Modi’s parivaar”. Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Tuesday (Mar 5) also said she did not expect such remarks from a senior leader like Lalu and called them highly condemnable. “He (Lalu) has spent decades in politics and was also CM of the state,” said Sitharaman. She added, “People don’t expect such comments from a senior leader like him. It disheartens the people. One has to maintain dignity in politics.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav defends dad Lalu’s ‘parivaar’ jibe at PM Modi, says BJP distracting people

Why did the Supreme Court term the Electoral Bonds Scheme as unconstitutional and what are the potential repercussions of this judgment on political parties, particularly in this election year?

Electoral bonds: Opposition corners Modi government

<p>Political party Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and member of the upper house of the Indian parliament (Rajya Sabha) Sanjay Raut, on Monday (Mar 4) slammed Calcutta high court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay for joining politics.</p>

<p>The party leader from the state of Maharashtra suggested that even when the judges “resign” and join politics it means that they were working for a particular party as opposed to delivering justice.</p>

<p>“If sitting judges of the High Court and Supreme Court resign and join a particular political party, it means they were not delivering justice, but working for the party,” Raut told reporters in Mumbai when asked about the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-jp-nadda-resigns-from-upper-house-of-parliament-ahead-of-indian-general-election-696533">BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes a day after West Bengal’s ruling TMC, on Sunday, made similar allegations against Gangopadhyay as Raut did saying that he was a “political worker” and his decision to join politics laid bare his anti-TMC bias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have been saying for long that he is a political party worker. We thank him today for proving us right,” TMC state spokesperson Debangshu Bhattacharya quipped.</p>

<h2><strong>Gangopadhyay to join politics</strong></h2>

<p>Gangopadhyay on Sunday (Mar 3) said he was leaving the judiciary and joining politics, a move welcomed by both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Calcutta HC judge is known for having fierce conflicts with West Bengal’s ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“For the last two or more years I have been dealing with some matters, especially education matters, regarding which a huge corruption has been discovered and unearthed,” Gangopadhyay told news agency ANI.</p>

<p>He added, “A large number of important persons in the education sector of this government (TMC) are now languishing in jail, under trial. Thereafter, now I am taking labour matters.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-abhijit-gangopadhyay-of-calcutta-hc-to-join-politics-bjp-congress-hail-decision-696176">Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay of Calcutta High Court to join politics; BJP, Congress hail decision</a></strong></p>

<p>The Calcutta high court justice went on to talk about how “only the political field can give people who want to take steps in respect of those helpless people a chance to act for them.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Both BJP and Congress welcome&nbsp;Gangopadhyay</strong></h2>

<p>While Gangopadhyay did not say which party he would join, both Congress and BJP have welcomed him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BJP said people like Gangopadhyay should be joining politics to do our country a favour. &nbsp;“People like Abhijit Gangopadhyay joining politics is something that is in the country’s favour. I guess the BJP would be his natural choice,” said state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said, “He is a crusader against corruption. If he wants to join the Congress, we will give him a warm welcome. He is a fighter. If he joins the BJP, then ideologically we can’t support (him).”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Political party Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and member of the upper house of the Indian parliament (Rajya Sabha) Sanjay Raut, on Monday (Mar 4) slammed Calcutta high court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay for joining politics.

Political party Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and member of the upper house of the Indian parliament (Rajya Sabha) Sanjay Raut, on Monday (Mar 4) slammed Calcutta high court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay for joining politics. The party leader from the state of Maharashtra suggested that even when the judges “resign” and join politics it means that they were working for a particular party as opposed to delivering justice. “If sitting judges of the High Court and Supreme Court resign and join a particular political party, it means they were not delivering justice, but working for the party,” Raut told reporters in Mumbai when asked about the decision. Also Read | BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election This comes a day after West Bengal’s ruling TMC, on Sunday, made similar allegations against Gangopadhyay as Raut did saying that he was a “political worker” and his decision to join politics laid bare his anti-TMC bias. “We have been saying for long that he is a political party worker. We thank him today for proving us right,” TMC state spokesperson Debangshu Bhattacharya quipped. Gangopadhyay to join politics Gangopadhyay on Sunday (Mar 3) said he was leaving the judiciary and joining politics, a move welcomed by both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress. The Calcutta HC judge is known for having fierce conflicts with West Bengal’s ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) party. “For the last two or more years I have been dealing with some matters, especially education matters, regarding which a huge corruption has been discovered and unearthed,” Gangopadhyay told news agency ANI. He added, “A large number of important persons in the education sector of this government (TMC) are now languishing in jail, under trial. Thereafter, now I am taking labour matters.” Also Read | Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay of Calcutta High Court to join politics; BJP, Congress hail decision The Calcutta high court justice went on to talk about how “only the political field can give people who want to take steps in respect of those helpless people a chance to act for them.” Both BJP and Congress welcome Gangopadhyay While Gangopadhyay did not say which party he would join, both Congress and BJP have welcomed him. BJP said people like Gangopadhyay should be joining politics to do our country a favour. “People like Abhijit Gangopadhyay joining politics is something that is in the country’s favour. I guess the BJP would be his natural choice,” said state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar. Meanwhile, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said, “He is a crusader against corruption. If he wants to join the Congress, we will give him a warm welcome. He is a fighter. If he joins the BJP, then ideologically we can’t support (him).” (With inputs from agencies)

India: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics

<p>Calcutta High Court Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay has officially resigned and is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Confirming his decision, Justice Gangopadhyay, speaking to reporters on Tuesday (March 5) in Kolkata, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ‘very hardworking man’ and criticised the ruling Trinamool, stating that the party's implosion indicates corruption and that he was inspired to enter politics.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-bets-big-on-bhojpuri-stars-but-pawan-kumar-steps-back-696102" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-bets-big-on-bhojpuri-stars-but-pawan-kumar-steps-back-696102&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC5-KimN2EAxVl-zgGHVR6AfwQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1u_qRomoKRyo2irHEKckG1" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-bets-big-on-bhojpuri-stars-but-pawan-kumar-steps-back-696102" target="_blank">Lok Sabha Elections 2024:&nbsp;<b>BJP</b>&nbsp;bets big on Bhojpuri stars</a></p>

<p>“I felt that I had done enough work there (in judiciary), but some work is set to be done for people who cannot go to the court or do not have the resources to go to the court. They are very helpless, and I should help them with the little resources I have for them, and that's why I have decided to join politics. I will be joining the BJP,” Abhijit Gangopadhyay said after announcing his resignation to join politics.</p>

<p>The former judge plans to join the BJP on March 7, according to a tentative program.</p>

<p>Justice Gangopadhyay, who gained attention last year for discussing a case he was handling in an interview, is widely expected to be a BJP candidate in the upcoming general election.</p>

<p>Speculation suggests he may contest the Tamluk seat, traditionally held by the Trinamool Congress, where the party has maintained control since the 2009 election.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC5-KimN2EAxVl-zgGHVR6AfwQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3d5dtOXcusHT2ZilwguYg4" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077" target="_blank">Lok Sabha Elections 2024:&nbsp;<b>BJP's</b>&nbsp;first list puts focus on continuity</a></p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Justice Gangopadhyay confirmed his resignation and expressed his intention to meet the Chief Justice for a courtesy visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He disclosed that he had sent his resignation to the President of India and planned to hold a press conference, adjusting the venue to his home due to current prohibitory orders against large gatherings.</p>

<p>Justice Gangopadhyay, known for his controversial rulings and statements, received an invitation from Trinamool spokesperson Kunal Ghosh to join politics. Despite previous criticism from Ghosh, Justice Gangopadhyay acknowledged him as a good person.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nirmala Sitharaman and Dr S Jaishankar to contest Lok Sabha elections</strong></p>

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<p>His decision to step into politics comes after a series of headline-making incidents, including an interview discussing a case, accusations against another judge of working for a political party, and an order for the arrest of a lawyer in the courtroom, leading to a bar association boycott.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Calcutta High Court Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay has officially resigned and is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Confirming his decision, Justice Gangopadhyay, speaking to reporters on Tuesday (March 5) in Kolkata, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ‘very hardworking man’ and criticised the ruling Trinamool, stating that the party's implosion indicates corruption and that he was inspired to enter politics.

Calcutta High Court Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay has officially resigned and is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Confirming his decision, Justice Gangopadhyay, speaking to reporters on Tuesday (March 5) in Kolkata, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ‘very hardworking man’ and criticised the ruling Trinamool, stating that the party's implosion indicates corruption and that he was inspired to enter politics. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP bets big on Bhojpuri stars “I felt that I had done enough work there (in judiciary), but some work is set to be done for people who cannot go to the court or do not have the resources to go to the court. They are very helpless, and I should help them with the little resources I have for them, and that's why I have decided to join politics. I will be joining the BJP,” Abhijit Gangopadhyay said after announcing his resignation to join politics. The former judge plans to join the BJP on March 7, according to a tentative program. Justice Gangopadhyay, who gained attention last year for discussing a case he was handling in an interview, is widely expected to be a BJP candidate in the upcoming general election. Speculation suggests he may contest the Tamluk seat, traditionally held by the Trinamool Congress, where the party has maintained control since the 2009 election. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity Earlier in the day, Justice Gangopadhyay confirmed his resignation and expressed his intention to meet the Chief Justice for a courtesy visit. He disclosed that he had sent his resignation to the President of India and planned to hold a press conference, adjusting the venue to his home due to current prohibitory orders against large gatherings. Justice Gangopadhyay, known for his controversial rulings and statements, received an invitation from Trinamool spokesperson Kunal Ghosh to join politics. Despite previous criticism from Ghosh, Justice Gangopadhyay acknowledged him as a good person. Watch: Nirmala Sitharaman and Dr S Jaishankar to contest Lok Sabha elections × His decision to step into politics comes after a series of headline-making incidents, including an interview discussing a case, accusations against another judge of working for a political party, and an order for the arrest of a lawyer in the courtroom, leading to a bar association boycott. (With inputs from agencies)

Abhijit Gangopadhyay resigns as Calcutta High Court judge, to join BJP

A day after the RJD chief took a jibe at PM Modi that he doesn't have a family, the BJP launched 'Modi Ka Parivar' campaign.

India: "Modi ka Parivar" adds ammo to BJP's campaig

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PM Modi responds to RJD's Lalu Yadav's family jibe says "140 crore people my family"

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