<p>Following the Supreme Court's criticism of the municipal poll officer for "defacing" the ballot paper in the Chandigarh Mayor polls, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) presented CCTV footage on Monday, claiming that the BJP Presiding officer openly destroyed and invalidated votes.</p>

<p>Sharing the CCTV footage as 'proof' of the ballot paper tampering by the civic poll officer, the Aam Aadmi Party, in a post on X, wrote, "Now accept it, BJP. What can be a greater proof than this? See how the Presiding Officer of BJP openly destroyed the flag of democracy by cancelling the votes himself. This is a living proof of BJP's dictatorship."</p>

<p>The Supreme Court had slammed the poll officer who held the Chandigarh Mayor elections and said that it is obvious that the returning officer has "defaced" the ballot papers.</p>

<p>"Is this the way he conducts the elections? This is a mockery of democracy. This is a murder of democracy. We are appalled. This man should be prosecuted. Is this the behaviour of the Returning Officer?," Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said.</p>

<p>The apex court further ordered the preservation of an entire record of the election process including ballot papers, videography and other material through the Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court.</p>

<p>Earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other party leaders on February 2 staged a protest in Delhi against the BJP over the Chandigarh mayoral elections.</p>

<p>During the protest, Kejriwal said, "BJP messes up in elections; there were often allegations that BJP wins elections by messing up; BJP steals election votes, tampers with EVMs gets names removed from the voter list, and adds fake names, we heard. We used to hear that fake votes were cast but never found any proof. There is a verse written in the Gita, 'Yada Yada hi Dharmasya Glanirbhavati Bharata';&nbsp;whenever too much sin is committed on this earth, then the God above will come to the earth."</p>

<p>"This election in Chandigarh shows that they are the pot of sin. How did it get filled? When the pot of sin gets filled too much, then nature moves its broom, and God moves its broom and corrects things. The Chandigarh election was a small one. The world's biggest party was caught stealing votes in the Chandigarh elections; it was caught red-handed," he added.&nbsp;</p>


Following the Supreme Court's criticism of the municipal poll officer for "defacing" the ballot paper in the Chandigarh Mayor polls, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) presented CCTV footage on Monday, claiming that the BJP Presiding officer openly destroyed and invalidated votes.

Following the Supreme Court's criticism of the municipal poll officer for "defacing" the ballot paper in the Chandigarh Mayor polls, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) presented CCTV footage on Monday, claiming that the BJP Presiding officer openly destroyed and invalidated votes. Sharing the CCTV footage as 'proof' of the ballot paper tampering by the civic poll officer, the Aam Aadmi Party, in a post on X, wrote, "Now accept it, BJP. What can be a greater proof than this? See how the Presiding Officer of BJP openly destroyed the flag of democracy by cancelling the votes himself. This is a living proof of BJP's dictatorship." The Supreme Court had slammed the poll officer who held the Chandigarh Mayor elections and said that it is obvious that the returning officer has "defaced" the ballot papers. "Is this the way he conducts the elections? This is a mockery of democracy. This is a murder of democracy. We are appalled. This man should be prosecuted. Is this the behaviour of the Returning Officer?," Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said. The apex court further ordered the preservation of an entire record of the election process including ballot papers, videography and other material through the Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court. Earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other party leaders on February 2 staged a protest in Delhi against the BJP over the Chandigarh mayoral elections. During the protest, Kejriwal said, "BJP messes up in elections; there were often allegations that BJP wins elections by messing up; BJP steals election votes, tampers with EVMs gets names removed from the voter list, and adds fake names, we heard. We used to hear that fake votes were cast but never found any proof. There is a verse written in the Gita, 'Yada Yada hi Dharmasya Glanirbhavati Bharata'; whenever too much sin is committed on this earth, then the God above will come to the earth." "This election in Chandigarh shows that they are the pot of sin. How did it get filled? When the pot of sin gets filled too much, then nature moves its broom, and God moves its broom and corrects things. The Chandigarh election was a small one. The world's biggest party was caught stealing votes in the Chandigarh elections; it was caught red-handed," he added.

India: AAP presents 'proof' of ballot paper tampering by BJP in Chandigarh mayor elections

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections. India’s major opposition parties have formed the bloc in an attempt to challenge incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking a third time in office.</p>

<h2><strong>Gandhi’s big promise</strong></h2>

<p>Gandhi made the promise while addressing a rally in Jharkhand's Ranchi. He said Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were made “bonded labourers” and they were not fairly represented in major corporations, big companies, schools and hospitals.</p>

<p>"This is the biggest question before India. Our first step would be to get a caste census in the country,” Gandhi said. He added that the current regime doesn’t allow the total reservation to go beyond the 50 per cent mark, before going on to make the radical promise to remove the cap altogether.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Congress' Rahul Gandhi to begin from Manipur</strong></p>

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<p>“If INDIA bloc comes to power, it will throw away the 50 per cent cap on reservation, ensure Dalits, tribals, OBCs get their rights,” the ex-Congress chief said.</p>

<p>He added: "There will be no reduction in reservation of Dalits and Adivasis. I am giving you a guarantee that the backward sections of society will get their rights. This is the biggest issue - social and economic injustice"</p>

<h2><strong>Gandhi takes on PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Rahul Gandhi also accused the Indian PM of opposing the idea of a caste census. He added that Modi used to say he was an OBC leader but now says there are only two castes- the rich and the poor.</p>

<p>"When the time came to give rights to OBCs, Dalits, tribals, Modi ji says there are no castes and when it is time to get votes, he says he is an OBC," Gandhi claimed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0H742oWhctIUJnXpHuo8VI" data-ved="2ahUKEwjx2MXY55SEAxUm3TgGHWVEADEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-inauguration-modis-function-congress-leader-rahul-gandhi-takes-a-dig-at-indian-pm-680512" jsname="YKoRaf">Ram Mandir inauguration ‘Modi’s function’: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM</a></strong></p>

<p>He also blamed PM Modi for “killing” the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and handing them over to big industrialists.</p>

<p>“Narendra Modi and his government are slowly killing the PSUs…The central government wants the HEC (Heavy Engineering Corporation) to not function, and in the coming days, they will replace the name HEC with an Adani nameplate. They want to privatise it,” Gandhi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections.

Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections. India’s major opposition parties have formed the bloc in an attempt to challenge incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking a third time in office. Gandhi’s big promise Gandhi made the promise while addressing a rally in Jharkhand's Ranchi. He said Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were made “bonded labourers” and they were not fairly represented in major corporations, big companies, schools and hospitals. "This is the biggest question before India. Our first step would be to get a caste census in the country,” Gandhi said. He added that the current regime doesn’t allow the total reservation to go beyond the 50 per cent mark, before going on to make the radical promise to remove the cap altogether. Watch: India: 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Congress' Rahul Gandhi to begin from Manipur × “If INDIA bloc comes to power, it will throw away the 50 per cent cap on reservation, ensure Dalits, tribals, OBCs get their rights,” the ex-Congress chief said. He added: "There will be no reduction in reservation of Dalits and Adivasis. I am giving you a guarantee that the backward sections of society will get their rights. This is the biggest issue - social and economic injustice" Gandhi takes on PM Modi Rahul Gandhi also accused the Indian PM of opposing the idea of a caste census. He added that Modi used to say he was an OBC leader but now says there are only two castes- the rich and the poor. "When the time came to give rights to OBCs, Dalits, tribals, Modi ji says there are no castes and when it is time to get votes, he says he is an OBC," Gandhi claimed. Also read: Ram Mandir inauguration ‘Modi’s function’: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM He also blamed PM Modi for “killing” the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and handing them over to big industrialists. “Narendra Modi and his government are slowly killing the PSUs…The central government wants the HEC (Heavy Engineering Corporation) to not function, and in the coming days, they will replace the name HEC with an Adani nameplate. They want to privatise it,” Gandhi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls

<p>In a fresh attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the chief minister of northeast&nbsp;Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, claimed the leader was seen sharing dog biscuit with his supporter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief minister shared a video, weeks after the two leaders traded barbs during Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra's (United India Justice March) Assam leg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video which was captured during Gandhi's march in Jharkhand, the leader was seen petting a puppy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congresss-rahul-gandhi-promises-to-remove-50-reservation-cap-if-india-bloc-wins-polls-687295">&nbsp;India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls</a></p>

<p>The Congress leader was then seen asking for a pack of biscuits for the dog from his aides and then feeding the puppy as well as interacting with the supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the puppy turned away, Gandhi was seen handing the biscuit in the hand of a supporter who was speaking to him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pallavi ji, not only Rahul Gandhi but the entire family could not make me eat that biscuit. I am a proud Assamese and Indian . I refused to eat and resign from the Congress. <a href="https://t.co/ywumO3iuBr">https://t.co/ywumO3iuBr</a></p>
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) <a href="https://twitter.com/himantabiswa/status/1754566715428438452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, a video of Gandhi petting the puppy was shared by the official Bharat Jodo Yatra handle, however, the clip did not include the biscuit episode.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The "biscuit" video has now gone viral, with many accusing the Congress leader of mistreating his supporters and party workers.</p>

<p>Some users have, however, claimed that the puppy belonged to the supporter Gandhi was speaking to and that the Congress leader had given him the biscuits to feed the puppy later.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A brief pause for a paw-some furry friend. 🐾<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatJodoNyayYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatJodoNyayYatra</a> <a href="https://t.co/ccysNDVIHr">pic.twitter.com/ccysNDVIHr</a></p>
— Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (@bharatjodo) <a href="https://twitter.com/bharatjodo/status/1754051231985856715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, a lot of people tagged the Assam chief minister and asked for his views on the matter. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting over the dog controversy at a press conference, Gandhi said, “I called the dog and the owner. The dog was nervous, shivering and when I tried to feed it, the dog got scared. So I gave biscuits to the dog's owner and the dog ate them from his hand. I don't understand what's the issue with it."</p>

<p>Further dismissing the allegations, he said, "No, where was he a Congress worker? I don't understand BJP's obsession with dogs."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sarma's dog incident&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In various interviews, Sarma, who was earlier with Congress, has often claimed that when he had visited Gandhi for a meeting along with other senior Congress leaders, they were offered biscuits from the same plate on which his pet dog ate biscuits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Congress green signals Predator drone sale to India</strong></p>

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<p>After the video went viral, the Assam chief minister further slammed the Congress leader.</p>

<p>In reply to a user who had tagged him, Sarma said. "Not only Rahul Gandhi but the entire family could not make me eat that biscuit. I am a proud Assamese and Indian. I refused to eat and resign from the Congress."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other BJP leaders also slammed Gandhi over the viral video.</p>

<p>BJP leader Amit Malviya said, "It is natural for a party to become extinct when its prince...treats party workers like dogs".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a fresh attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the chief minister of northeast Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, claimed the leader was seen sharing dog biscuit with his supporter.

In a fresh attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the chief minister of northeast Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, claimed the leader was seen sharing dog biscuit with his supporter. The chief minister shared a video, weeks after the two leaders traded barbs during Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra's (United India Justice March) Assam leg. In the video which was captured during Gandhi's march in Jharkhand, the leader was seen petting a puppy. Also read: India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls The Congress leader was then seen asking for a pack of biscuits for the dog from his aides and then feeding the puppy as well as interacting with the supporters. After the puppy turned away, Gandhi was seen handing the biscuit in the hand of a supporter who was speaking to him. Pallavi ji, not only Rahul Gandhi but the entire family could not make me eat that biscuit. I am a proud Assamese and Indian . I refused to eat and resign from the Congress. https://t.co/ywumO3iuBr — Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) February 5, 2024 × Earlier, a video of Gandhi petting the puppy was shared by the official Bharat Jodo Yatra handle, however, the clip did not include the biscuit episode. The "biscuit" video has now gone viral, with many accusing the Congress leader of mistreating his supporters and party workers. Some users have, however, claimed that the puppy belonged to the supporter Gandhi was speaking to and that the Congress leader had given him the biscuits to feed the puppy later. A brief pause for a paw-some furry friend. 🐾#BharatJodoNyayYatra pic.twitter.com/ccysNDVIHr — Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (@bharatjodo) February 4, 2024 × Earlier, a lot of people tagged the Assam chief minister and asked for his views on the matter. Reacting over the dog controversy at a press conference, Gandhi said, “I called the dog and the owner. The dog was nervous, shivering and when I tried to feed it, the dog got scared. So I gave biscuits to the dog's owner and the dog ate them from his hand. I don't understand what's the issue with it." Further dismissing the allegations, he said, "No, where was he a Congress worker? I don't understand BJP's obsession with dogs." Sarma's dog incident In various interviews, Sarma, who was earlier with Congress, has often claimed that when he had visited Gandhi for a meeting along with other senior Congress leaders, they were offered biscuits from the same plate on which his pet dog ate biscuits. Watch: US Congress green signals Predator drone sale to India After the video went viral, the Assam chief minister further slammed the Congress leader. In reply to a user who had tagged him, Sarma said. "Not only Rahul Gandhi but the entire family could not make me eat that biscuit. I am a proud Assamese and Indian. I refused to eat and resign from the Congress." Other BJP leaders also slammed Gandhi over the viral video. BJP leader Amit Malviya said, "It is natural for a party to become extinct when its prince...treats party workers like dogs". (With inputs from agencies)

Did Rahul Gandhi offer dog's biscuit to supporter? BJP claims so with viral video

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna. The announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. Advani has been a key leading figure in the BJP for decades and has served as home minister of India. Watch to know more!

India: BJP veteran leader LK Advani to get Bharat Ratna

India's highest civilian honour for BJP veteran leader LK Advani

<p>Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday (Feb 2) alleged that some of its top leaders and MLAs were illegally detained and placed under house arrest ahead of the party’s planned protest against the national ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi Speaker Ram Niwas Goel and Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohd Iqbal have been placed under house arrest, alleged top AAP leader Gopal Rai. He&nbsp;added that some of their councillors and MLAs were also detained as they planned to stage a protest outside BJP headquarter in New Delhi in the wake of alleged fraud in Chandigarh mayor elections that BJP won.</p>

<h2><strong>Heavy police presence across Central Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a heavy police presence was observed on Friday across central Delhi as both BJP and AAP planned protests against each other. BJP said it was protesting against ‘corruption’ by the AAP party.</p>

<p>Citing police deployment, AAP leader Gopal Rai said BJP was scared of AAP’s protest.</p>

<p>“Currently, many of our MLAs have been put under house arrest including Delhi Vidhan Sabha Speaker Ram Niwas Goel and Delhi’s Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohmmad Iqbal,” said Rai.</p>

<p>He demanded immediate release of all detained leaders.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that their right to hold peaceful protests against the BJP was being curtailed by the authorities.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | “We all saw how ballot papers were stolen during the Chandigarh Mayoral election. So, we are holding a peaceful protest against it. Barricades have been put up at various locations, and police have reached every AAP leader's residence. So what is it? Dictatorship?,” says… <a href="https://t.co/1SzboL6d29">pic.twitter.com/1SzboL6d29</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1753283312054153614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a post on X, Kejriwal said, "First votes were stolen in the Chandigarh mayoral elections. Now, people coming to protest peacefully against this are being stopped at various places across Delhi."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US approves sale of armed drones to India for nearly $4 billion</strong></p>

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<p>Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi said, "Heavy barricading all across Delhi. Buses full of AAP volunteers being detained. Hundreds of para-military forces outside the AAP office." "Why is the BJP so scared of a protest on the Chandigarh mayoral elections?".</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy over Chandigarh mayor elections</strong></h2>

<p>The mayor election in Chandigarh took place on Tuesday (Jan 30), which was won by BJP as its candidate secured 16 votes while the AAP party candidates could manage only&nbsp;12.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw3HDS5BwKO4QNCrKleR-Q9m" data-ved="2ahUKEwi7ypLXyoyEAxXJTWcHHd_pBQMQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-tense-as-aap-plans-protest-against-alleged-chandigarh-mayoral-polls-rigging-security-heightened-686277" jsname="YKoRaf">Delhi tense as AAP plans protest against alleged Chandigarh mayoral poll rigging</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the ruckus erupted after eight of the opposition votes were declared invalid. Opposition councillors alleged ballot tampering after invalidation of eight votes. The BJP has rejected the allegations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday (Feb 2) alleged that some of its top leaders and MLAs were illegally detained and placed under house arrest ahead of the party’s planned protest against the national ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday (Feb 2) alleged that some of its top leaders and MLAs were illegally detained and placed under house arrest ahead of the party’s planned protest against the national ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Delhi Speaker Ram Niwas Goel and Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohd Iqbal have been placed under house arrest, alleged top AAP leader Gopal Rai. He added that some of their councillors and MLAs were also detained as they planned to stage a protest outside BJP headquarter in New Delhi in the wake of alleged fraud in Chandigarh mayor elections that BJP won. Heavy police presence across Central Delhi Meanwhile, a heavy police presence was observed on Friday across central Delhi as both BJP and AAP planned protests against each other. BJP said it was protesting against ‘corruption’ by the AAP party. Citing police deployment, AAP leader Gopal Rai said BJP was scared of AAP’s protest. “Currently, many of our MLAs have been put under house arrest including Delhi Vidhan Sabha Speaker Ram Niwas Goel and Delhi’s Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohmmad Iqbal,” said Rai. He demanded immediate release of all detained leaders. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that their right to hold peaceful protests against the BJP was being curtailed by the authorities. VIDEO | “We all saw how ballot papers were stolen during the Chandigarh Mayoral election. So, we are holding a peaceful protest against it. Barricades have been put up at various locations, and police have reached every AAP leader's residence. So what is it? Dictatorship?,” says… pic.twitter.com/1SzboL6d29 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 2, 2024 × In a post on X, Kejriwal said, "First votes were stolen in the Chandigarh mayoral elections. Now, people coming to protest peacefully against this are being stopped at various places across Delhi." Watch: US approves sale of armed drones to India for nearly $4 billion × Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi said, "Heavy barricading all across Delhi. Buses full of AAP volunteers being detained. Hundreds of para-military forces outside the AAP office." "Why is the BJP so scared of a protest on the Chandigarh mayoral elections?". Controversy over Chandigarh mayor elections The mayor election in Chandigarh took place on Tuesday (Jan 30), which was won by BJP as its candidate secured 16 votes while the AAP party candidates could manage only 12. Also read: Delhi tense as AAP plans protest against alleged Chandigarh mayoral poll rigging However, the ruckus erupted after eight of the opposition votes were declared invalid. Opposition councillors alleged ballot tampering after invalidation of eight votes. The BJP has rejected the allegations. (With inputs from agencies)

AAP alleges leaders detained, placed under house arrest ahead of planned protest against BJP

<p>A controversy erupted after the recent removal of a saffron flag bearing Lord Hanuman's image by the authorities in Keragodu Village of Karnataka — a state in southwest India. The police and administration had hoisted the Tricolour replacing the "Hanuman Dhwaja" for the Republic Day function on January 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The "Hanuman Dhwaja" was hoisted on a 108-ft tall flag post and the villagers and activists continued their protest and demanded that it be reinstated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tensions intensified as the Karnataka unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (Jan 29) launched a protest in all district headquarters condemning the incident in Mandya district, but the situation remained under control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karnataka Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) unit said on Monday that it will launch a campaign in the state and they will hoist flags of Lord Hanuman on every road and house of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-nitish-kumars-betrayal-spells-doom-for-india-bloc-684812">How Nitish Kumar’s betrayal spells doom for INDIA bloc?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Sharan Pumpwell, an official of VHP said to the media, "In Keragodu of Mandya, all Ram bhakts had hoisted the Hanuman flag. But, for Muslim votes, the Karnataka government has removed the flag. It needs to be hoisted again just like it was brought down."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will show our devotion towards Lord Hanuman in this manner to the government," Sharan said, further adding that Hindus, devotees of Ram and Hanuman are pained by the news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not against hoisting of the Tricolour. But there is a set of guidelines to hoist the national flag. They have insulted the national flag as well. The people who insulted the national flag should be charged with sedition," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-valley-receives-fresh-snowfall-breaks-over-two-month-long-dry-spell-684834">Kashmir Valley receives fresh snowfall, breaks over two month long dry spell</a>&nbsp;</strong></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> | Karnataka: BJP and JDS workers hold protest in Keragodu village, Mandya over the Hanuman flag hoisted by the Gram Panchayat Board of Mandya district, which was brought down by the district administration, yesterday.<br />
<br />
Heavy force has been deployed in the area. <a href="https://t.co/3RvOUyPfat">pic.twitter.com/3RvOUyPfat</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1751818228723257762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Chief minister reacts&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded to the incident, stating that BJP is creating trouble unnecessarily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "There is no opposition to hoisting the Hanuman flag. The people had got the permission to hoist the Tricolour. I am also a Hindu. I love people of all religions. We have faith in the secularism enshrined in the Constitution which means tolerance and coexistence."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said, "They want to establish a political foothold in Mandya. They are just creating confusion in the minds of the public. Nothing will happen. The people of Mandya are very tolerant and secular... This is pure politics. And they wanted to destabilise the peace of the state. We want peace, let us maintain peace...''&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | "My point is: why are they (BJP and Janata Dal-Secular) instigating people? For what? Let me know. What for they are instigating?" says Karnataka CM <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@siddaramaiah</a>, reacting to Mandya protest over removal of Lord Hanuman's flag. <a href="https://t.co/IGfH6XSdDB">pic.twitter.com/IGfH6XSdDB</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1751853568993186032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A controversy erupted after the recent removal of a saffron flag bearing Lord Hanuman's image by the authorities in Keragodu Village of Karnataka — a state in southwest India.

A controversy erupted after the recent removal of a saffron flag bearing Lord Hanuman's image by the authorities in Keragodu Village of Karnataka — a state in southwest India. The police and administration had hoisted the Tricolour replacing the "Hanuman Dhwaja" for the Republic Day function on January 26. The "Hanuman Dhwaja" was hoisted on a 108-ft tall flag post and the villagers and activists continued their protest and demanded that it be reinstated. The tensions intensified as the Karnataka unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (Jan 29) launched a protest in all district headquarters condemning the incident in Mandya district, but the situation remained under control. Karnataka Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) unit said on Monday that it will launch a campaign in the state and they will hoist flags of Lord Hanuman on every road and house of the state. Also read: How Nitish Kumar’s betrayal spells doom for INDIA bloc? Sharan Pumpwell, an official of VHP said to the media, "In Keragodu of Mandya, all Ram bhakts had hoisted the Hanuman flag. But, for Muslim votes, the Karnataka government has removed the flag. It needs to be hoisted again just like it was brought down." "We will show our devotion towards Lord Hanuman in this manner to the government," Sharan said, further adding that Hindus, devotees of Ram and Hanuman are pained by the news. "We are not against hoisting of the Tricolour. But there is a set of guidelines to hoist the national flag. They have insulted the national flag as well. The people who insulted the national flag should be charged with sedition," he said. Also read: Kashmir Valley receives fresh snowfall, breaks over two month long dry spell #WATCH | Karnataka: BJP and JDS workers hold protest in Keragodu village, Mandya over the Hanuman flag hoisted by the Gram Panchayat Board of Mandya district, which was brought down by the district administration, yesterday. Heavy force has been deployed in the area. pic.twitter.com/3RvOUyPfat — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2024 × Chief minister reacts Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded to the incident, stating that BJP is creating trouble unnecessarily. He said, "There is no opposition to hoisting the Hanuman flag. The people had got the permission to hoist the Tricolour. I am also a Hindu. I love people of all religions. We have faith in the secularism enshrined in the Constitution which means tolerance and coexistence." Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said, "They want to establish a political foothold in Mandya. They are just creating confusion in the minds of the public. Nothing will happen. The people of Mandya are very tolerant and secular... This is pure politics. And they wanted to destabilise the peace of the state. We want peace, let us maintain peace...'' VIDEO | "My point is: why are they (BJP and Janata Dal-Secular) instigating people? For what? Let me know. What for they are instigating?" says Karnataka CM @siddaramaiah, reacting to Mandya protest over removal of Lord Hanuman's flag. pic.twitter.com/IGfH6XSdDB — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 29, 2024 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. (With inputs from agencies)

Controversy erupts in Karnataka over removal of Lord Hanuman flag, BJP launches protests

<p>In a closely contested mayoral election in the Indian city of Chandigarh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Manoj Sonkar secured victory with 16 votes. He managed to defeat the Congress-AAP alliance candidate Kuldeep Tita, who managed 12 votes. The 39-year-old Sonkar holds education till seventh standard and reportedly runs a liquor business.</p>

<p>However, the Opposition raised allegations of foul play as eight votes were declared invalid.</p>

<p>The illness of the presiding officer for the mayoral election Anil Masih, who reportedly holds allegiance with the BJP, led to the delay in polls which were earlier scheduled for January 18.</p>

<p>AAP has expressed apprehensions regarding the integrity of the election process, citing footage that allegedly depicted Masih making marks on certain ballots. The validity of the ballots may be contested on various grounds. It could include the presence of identifying marks that could potentially unveil the voters' identities, jeopardising the confidentiality of the ballot.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-satnam-singh-sandhu-founder-chancellor-of-chandigarh-university-nominated-as-rajya-sabha-mp-685125">Who is Satnam Singh Sandhu? Founder, chancellor of Chandigarh University nominated as Rajya Sabha MP</a></p>

<p>The opposition on Tuesday (Jan 30) held protests against Masih and marshals were called in to restore order. The newly elected mayor will now oversee the elections for the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor.</p>

<p>Ahead of the upcoming general elections where INDIA alliance is vying to throw the ruling BJP out of power, the polls were an important test for the Opposition bloc. It was also the first-ever alliance between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Allegations of rigged polls&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Congress leader Pawan Bansal accused the rejection of eight ballot papers as "premeditated", stating, "Congress and AAP agents were not given access to the ballot paper."</p>

<p>Basal alleged, "The presiding officer, who I would say is a shallow person, had been given one clear specification that he has to come out only after declaring the BJP candidate as the winner.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shilpa-shetty-vivek-oberoi-on-indian-police-force-and-more-685164">Shilpa Shetty, Vivek Oberoi on Indian Police Force and more</a></strong></p>

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<p>“We were watching the live (feed). If you notice, the presiding officer immediately vacated the chair and the BJP’s candidate was standing beside him immediately. The BJP members rushed in, took and tore the ballot papers before anyone could even go there and see,” Bansal added.</p>

<p>Chandigarh Congress chief H S Lucky accused the BJP of intentionally choosing a biased presiding officer, stating, "While signing, he marked on eight votes to declare them invalid. This is injustice… Death of democracy. How can they manipulate the elections?"</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a closely contested mayoral election in the Indian city of Chandigarh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Manoj Sonkar secured victory with 16 votes. He managed to defeat the Congress-AAP alliance candidate Kuldeep Tita, who managed 12 votes.

In a closely contested mayoral election in the Indian city of Chandigarh, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Manoj Sonkar secured victory with 16 votes. He managed to defeat the Congress-AAP alliance candidate Kuldeep Tita, who managed 12 votes. The 39-year-old Sonkar holds education till seventh standard and reportedly runs a liquor business. However, the Opposition raised allegations of foul play as eight votes were declared invalid. The illness of the presiding officer for the mayoral election Anil Masih, who reportedly holds allegiance with the BJP, led to the delay in polls which were earlier scheduled for January 18. AAP has expressed apprehensions regarding the integrity of the election process, citing footage that allegedly depicted Masih making marks on certain ballots. The validity of the ballots may be contested on various grounds. It could include the presence of identifying marks that could potentially unveil the voters' identities, jeopardising the confidentiality of the ballot. Also Read | Who is Satnam Singh Sandhu? Founder, chancellor of Chandigarh University nominated as Rajya Sabha MP The opposition on Tuesday (Jan 30) held protests against Masih and marshals were called in to restore order. The newly elected mayor will now oversee the elections for the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor. Ahead of the upcoming general elections where INDIA alliance is vying to throw the ruling BJP out of power, the polls were an important test for the Opposition bloc. It was also the first-ever alliance between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress. Allegations of rigged polls Congress leader Pawan Bansal accused the rejection of eight ballot papers as "premeditated", stating, "Congress and AAP agents were not given access to the ballot paper." Basal alleged, "The presiding officer, who I would say is a shallow person, had been given one clear specification that he has to come out only after declaring the BJP candidate as the winner.” Watch | Shilpa Shetty, Vivek Oberoi on Indian Police Force and more × “We were watching the live (feed). If you notice, the presiding officer immediately vacated the chair and the BJP’s candidate was standing beside him immediately. The BJP members rushed in, took and tore the ballot papers before anyone could even go there and see,” Bansal added. Chandigarh Congress chief H S Lucky accused the BJP of intentionally choosing a biased presiding officer, stating, "While signing, he marked on eight votes to declare them invalid. This is injustice… Death of democracy. How can they manipulate the elections?" (With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Mayor elections: BJP’s Manoj Sonkar wins, oppn demands action against presiding officer

<p>A court in the Indian state of Kerala, on Tuesday (Jan 30) sentenced to death 15 people associated with the now-banned Islamist outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) days after they were convicted of their role in the murder of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the sentence</strong></h2>

<p>The death sentence was given by Mavelikkara Additional District Judge VG Sreedevi to 15 people who were found guilty of the murder of 45-year-old BJP Other Backward Class (OBC) wing leader, Ranjith Sreenivasan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All 15 are associated with the now-banned PFI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-modi-comes-to-power-there-will-be-dictatorship-says-congress-chief-kharge-685004">If Modi comes to power 'there will be dictatorship,' says Congress chief Kharge</a></strong></p>

<p>Sreenivasan was said to have been brutally attacked and killed in his home in Kerala’s Alappuzha district in December 2021. The sentence comes after the prosecution&nbsp;sought a maximum sentence for the convicts, saying that they were a “trained killer squad”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sentence on Tuesday (Jan 30) came 10 days after the court found eight out of the 15 people accused in the case directly involved in the murder, while others were said to be guilty of criminal conspiracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 15 convicted are Naisam, Ajmal, Anoop, Mohammed Aslam, Abdul Kalam alias Salam, Saffaruddin, Manshad, Jaseeb Raja, Navas, Sameer, Nazir, Abdul Kalam, Zakir Hussain, Shaji and Shernas Ashraf.</p>

<h2><strong>Local BJP leader’s ‘brutal’ murder</strong></h2>

<p>Sreenivasan was reportedly hacked to death in front of his wife, mother and minor daughter on December 19, 2021. In line with the cruel manner in which the victim was killed, the prosecution argued that it brings the case within the scope of the “rarest of the rarest” of crimes.</p>

<p>On January 20, the Kerala court found all 15 accused in the case guilty, with eight directly involved and four others, who showed up with deadly weapons at the scene of the crime, guilty of murder.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/section-144-imposed-within-100-metre-radius-of-jharkhand-cm-sorens-residence-685029">Section 144 imposed within 100 metre radius of Jharkhand CM Soren's residence</a></strong></p>

<p>It was also their job to prevent the victim from leaving the house or letting anyone who heard the screams enter. Additionally, the court also found three others who hatched the conspiracy to kill Sreenivasan&nbsp;guilty of murder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fatal attack on Sreenivasan is regarded as an act of retaliation that took place hours after the PFI’s political wing, Social Democratic Party of India’s (SDPI) leader KS Shan was killed by a gang on December 18, 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trial for the Shan murder case will commence on February 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A court in the Indian state of Kerala, on Tuesday (Jan 30) sentenced to death 15 people associated with the now-banned Islamist outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) days after they were convicted of their role in the murder of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, reported news agency PTI.

A court in the Indian state of Kerala, on Tuesday (Jan 30) sentenced to death 15 people associated with the now-banned Islamist outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) days after they were convicted of their role in the murder of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, reported news agency PTI. About the sentence The death sentence was given by Mavelikkara Additional District Judge VG Sreedevi to 15 people who were found guilty of the murder of 45-year-old BJP Other Backward Class (OBC) wing leader, Ranjith Sreenivasan. All 15 are associated with the now-banned PFI. ALSO READ | If Modi comes to power 'there will be dictatorship,' says Congress chief Kharge Sreenivasan was said to have been brutally attacked and killed in his home in Kerala’s Alappuzha district in December 2021. The sentence comes after the prosecution sought a maximum sentence for the convicts, saying that they were a “trained killer squad”. The sentence on Tuesday (Jan 30) came 10 days after the court found eight out of the 15 people accused in the case directly involved in the murder, while others were said to be guilty of criminal conspiracy. The 15 convicted are Naisam, Ajmal, Anoop, Mohammed Aslam, Abdul Kalam alias Salam, Saffaruddin, Manshad, Jaseeb Raja, Navas, Sameer, Nazir, Abdul Kalam, Zakir Hussain, Shaji and Shernas Ashraf. Local BJP leader’s ‘brutal’ murder Sreenivasan was reportedly hacked to death in front of his wife, mother and minor daughter on December 19, 2021. In line with the cruel manner in which the victim was killed, the prosecution argued that it brings the case within the scope of the “rarest of the rarest” of crimes. On January 20, the Kerala court found all 15 accused in the case guilty, with eight directly involved and four others, who showed up with deadly weapons at the scene of the crime, guilty of murder. ALSO READ | Section 144 imposed within 100 metre radius of Jharkhand CM Soren's residence It was also their job to prevent the victim from leaving the house or letting anyone who heard the screams enter. Additionally, the court also found three others who hatched the conspiracy to kill Sreenivasan guilty of murder. The fatal attack on Sreenivasan is regarded as an act of retaliation that took place hours after the PFI’s political wing, Social Democratic Party of India’s (SDPI) leader KS Shan was killed by a gang on December 18, 2021. The trial for the Shan murder case will commence on February 2. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 15 men linked to banned group PFI sentenced to death by Kerala court for killing of local BJP leader

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May.<br />
BJP chief JP Nadda on Saturday appointed election in-charges and co-incharges for various states on Saturday.</p>

<p>According to a BJP release, former Tripura Chief Biplab Kumar Deb has been appointed election in-charge for Haryana. Surendra Singh Nagar will be co-in-charge of the state.</p>

<p>In Bihar, Deepak Prakash will assist Vinod Tawde as co-incharge.</p>

<p>Party leader Shrikant Sharma will be in charge of Himachal Pradesh and Sanjay Tandon will be the co-in-charge of the state.</p>

<p>Tarun Chugh and Laxmikant Bajpai have been made election in-charges of Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand respectively.</p>

<p>Radha Mohan Das Agarwal will be poll in-charge Karnataka and Sudhakar Reddy is the co-in-charge of Karnataka</p>

<p>Mangal Pandey has been appointed as election in-charge of West Bengal while Amit Malviya and Asha Lakra have been appointed as co-in-charges for the state.</p>

<p>The responsibility of the poll in charge for Lakshadweep and Tamil Nadu has been given to Arvind Menon, and Mahendra Singh will be the poll in charge for Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>Satish Upadhyay will be co-incharge of Madhya Pradesh.</p>

<p>Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been named election in-charge of the union territory of Chandigarh as also Punjab. Narinder Singh is the co-in-charge of Punjab.</p>

<p>Satya Kumar Y will be the election in charge of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and for Daman and Diu it is Purnesh Modi. Dushyant Patel is the co-in-charge of Daman and Diu.</p>

<p>Ashish Sood has been appointed poll in-charge for Goa and Tarun Chugh for Ladakh.</p>

<p>Vijaypal Singh Tomar has been appointed as the election in-charge for Odisha and Nirmal Kumar Surana for Puducherry. Lata Usendi is co-in-charge of Odisha.</p>

<p>Dilip Kumar Jaiswal has been appointed election in-charge for Sikkim and Dushyant Kumar Gautam for Uttarakhand.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May.

Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Baijayant Jay Panda has been appointed election-in charge of Uttar Pradesh, party general secretary Vinod Tawde of Bihar and former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar of Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May. BJP chief JP Nadda on Saturday appointed election in-charges and co-incharges for various states on Saturday. According to a BJP release, former Tripura Chief Biplab Kumar Deb has been appointed election in-charge for Haryana. Surendra Singh Nagar will be co-in-charge of the state. In Bihar, Deepak Prakash will assist Vinod Tawde as co-incharge. Party leader Shrikant Sharma will be in charge of Himachal Pradesh and Sanjay Tandon will be the co-in-charge of the state. Tarun Chugh and Laxmikant Bajpai have been made election in-charges of Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand respectively. Radha Mohan Das Agarwal will be poll in-charge Karnataka and Sudhakar Reddy is the co-in-charge of Karnataka Mangal Pandey has been appointed as election in-charge of West Bengal while Amit Malviya and Asha Lakra have been appointed as co-in-charges for the state. The responsibility of the poll in charge for Lakshadweep and Tamil Nadu has been given to Arvind Menon, and Mahendra Singh will be the poll in charge for Madhya Pradesh. Satish Upadhyay will be co-incharge of Madhya Pradesh. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been named election in-charge of the union territory of Chandigarh as also Punjab. Narinder Singh is the co-in-charge of Punjab. Satya Kumar Y will be the election in charge of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and for Daman and Diu it is Purnesh Modi. Dushyant Patel is the co-in-charge of Daman and Diu. Ashish Sood has been appointed poll in-charge for Goa and Tarun Chugh for Ladakh. Vijaypal Singh Tomar has been appointed as the election in-charge for Odisha and Nirmal Kumar Surana for Puducherry. Lata Usendi is co-in-charge of Odisha. Dilip Kumar Jaiswal has been appointed election in-charge for Sikkim and Dushyant Kumar Gautam for Uttarakhand.

BJP appoints state election in-charges for Lok Sabha polls

A Kerala court has awarded death sentence to 14 PFI affiliated men convicted of killing BJP leader Ranjith Sreenivasan. The BJP’s OBC Morcha Secretary, was killed at his home on 19 December of 2021 right in front of his family.

India: Kerala court sentences 14 persons related to PFI to death for BJP leader's murder

<p>Janata Dal-United&nbsp;leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.</p>

<p>Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers.</p>

<p>After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support.</p>

<h2><strong>‘We will stay together,’&nbsp;says Kumar in his first response after taking oath</strong></h2>

<p>The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now."</p>

<p>"I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday.</p>

<p>On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-politics-who-are-samrat-choudhary-and-vijay-sinha-the-two-deputy-chief-ministers-in-new-government-684594">Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government</a></p>

<p>"We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else,"&nbsp;he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav</strong></h2>

<p>In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.</p>

<p>RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months."</p>

<p>He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.</p>

<p>Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."</p>

<p>"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.</p>

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

<p>"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.</p>

<p>Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers. After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD. Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. ‘We will stay together,’ says Kumar in his first response after taking oath The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now." "I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday. On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state. Also read: Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government "We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else," he added. Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months." He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar politics: Nitish Kumar takes oath as chief minister, with 2 deputy CMs from BJP

A BJP leader has stirred controversy by saying that the highly-debated CAA can be implemented in one week.

Controversy over India's Citizenship Amendment Act

Nitish Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar today. The resignation comes after days of speculation over the leader eyeing another political switch to return to an alliance with the BJP.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar resigns, will he form a new alliance with BJP?

Nitish Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday. The resignation comes after days of speculation over the leader eyeing another political switch to return to an alliance with the BJP.

Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD & Congress to join BJP

After days of speculation, Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar has resigned as the Bihar chief minister after severing ties with the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ to break away from the ruling government as “not everything was alright".

Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP

Bihar: Opposition I.N.D.I.A alliance falls apart as Nitish Kumar switches over

Breaking News | Bihar CM Nitish Kumar resigns, calls for the dissolution of his government

Amidst tensions within India, Bihar's ruling alliance between the Janata Dal United (JDU) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), sources informed India Today that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may once again align with the BJP to establish a new government in the eastern state. A decision on this matter is expected within the next two to three days, as per the sources.

India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP?

The state of Bihar is going through a sudden political upheaval. Media reports suggest that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is planning to join hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party yet again it is now being reported that Kumar will likely be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time with support from the BJP.

Nitish Kumar's guessing game, Bihar's JD(U) to join hands with BJP

Bihar: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to dissolve legislature, says reports

In just a few months, India goes to vote. Prime Minister Modi's party - the BJP- has already started its election campaign. The party's focus is on expanding its footprint in the South. It looks like the plan is already on. It's because some of the greatest icons from the south have received extraordinary honours.

Gravitas: India alliance's election dream over? BJP woos South India for 2024

Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of the India's eastern state, Bihar, was instrumental in initiating unity talks among the opposition I.N.D.I.A constituent is now poised to make a stunning u-turn and join hands with prime minister Modi's party, the BJP.

The saga of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's many U-turns

<p lang="en-US">The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle<br />
<br />
“Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ahead-of-republic-day-pm-modi-and-french-president-macron-hold-roadshow-in-jaipur-683610">India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The&nbsp;song narrates how&nbsp;the situation in the country was deplorable, after which the nation voted for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Campaign song video shows Modi prostrating in front of Ram Lalla&nbsp;idol</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The song added that the Indian prime minister kept his promise and the country's dream of development. The lyrics further says&nbsp;that Narendra Modi has chosen the right paths and turned everyone's dreams into reality, which is why everyone chooses him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">सपने नहीं हकीकत बुनते हैं,<br />
तभी तो सब मोदी को चुनते हैं...<br />
<br />
Today, BJP National President Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> launched BJP's official campaign for the 2024 general elections in the virtual presence of Honourable Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/cqpcekKWEV">pic.twitter.com/cqpcekKWEV</a></p>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1750409275716055144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The campaign song video ends&nbsp;with the prime minister prostrating in front of the Ram Lalla idol after the Pran Pratistha (ceremony) in Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22.<br />
<br />
"He considers Bharat his mother and the countrymen as God. He chooses work before name (fame). That's why everyone (every country) listens to him. Indian women emerged as leaders while corrupt people are scared...he remained close to the grounds but reached the sky (a reference to Chandrayaan)", said the theme song.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-emmanuel-macron-reaches-india-as-chief-guest-for-75th-republic-day-683464/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
The campaign song further talked about projects introduced by the prime minister for different sections of the society&nbsp;and the success achieved by the government's foreign policy.<br />
<br />
The political party had launched a different version of the same song ‘Tabhi toh sab Modi ko chunte’ before the state elections in 2023.<br />
<br />
Another campaign song-video, which asserted 'Phir aayega Modi' (Modi will come again), was launched by BJP in December 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle “Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song.

The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle “Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song. Also read: India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur The song narrates how the situation in the country was deplorable, after which the nation voted for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Campaign song video shows Modi prostrating in front of Ram Lalla idol The song added that the Indian prime minister kept his promise and the country's dream of development. The lyrics further says that Narendra Modi has chosen the right paths and turned everyone's dreams into reality, which is why everyone chooses him. सपने नहीं हकीकत बुनते हैं, तभी तो सब मोदी को चुनते हैं... Today, BJP National President Shri @JPNadda launched BJP's official campaign for the 2024 general elections in the virtual presence of Honourable Prime Minister @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/cqpcekKWEV — BJP (@BJP4India) January 25, 2024 × The campaign song video ends with the prime minister prostrating in front of the Ram Lalla idol after the Pran Pratistha (ceremony) in Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22. "He considers Bharat his mother and the countrymen as God. He chooses work before name (fame). That's why everyone (every country) listens to him. Indian women emerged as leaders while corrupt people are scared...he remained close to the grounds but reached the sky (a reference to Chandrayaan)", said the theme song. Watch: French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day The campaign song further talked about projects introduced by the prime minister for different sections of the society and the success achieved by the government's foreign policy. The political party had launched a different version of the same song ‘Tabhi toh sab Modi ko chunte’ before the state elections in 2023. Another campaign song-video, which asserted 'Phir aayega Modi' (Modi will come again), was launched by BJP in December 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity. Watch

Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sounded the poll bugle for his party BJP. In Bulandshahr, a small city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, India's opposition is in a state of disarray. It begs the question: Is India's general election over before it has even begun?

Gravitas: PM Modi sounds poll bugle from Bulandshahr as Opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A falls apart

Three days after his auspicious inauguration of the Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off his ruling Bharatiya Janata Party campaign for the upcoming General Elections in 2024 . Prime Minister Modi held a rally today. In the Bulandshahr district of Uttar Pradesh, where he launched a slew of developmental projects and also his connection with lakhs of voters in the region.

PM Modi's bid to reach voters in Western Uttar Pradesh

<p>The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal.&nbsp;Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.</p>

<p>This decision comes as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee&nbsp;unleashed her verbal attack on Congress and showed her determination to chart the TMC's own course in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP."</p>

<p>Speaking over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing yatra, the TMC leader said,&nbsp;"They are coming to my state... but did not have the courtesy to inform me, even though I am part of the INDIA bloc. So there is no relation with me, as far as Bengal is concerned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-recounts-anecdotes-illustrating-simplicity-of-karpoori-thakur-on-his-birth-centenary-683146">Indian PM recounts anecdotes illustrating simplicity of Karpoori Thakur on his birth centenary</a></p>

<p>Amid the charged-up electoral atmosphere, Congress has also reacted to the West Bengal CM's remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress General Secretary in-charge&nbsp;Communications, Jairam Ramesh said, "TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied..."</p>

<p>INDIA bloc members joined their hands to oust the prime minister-led BJP government from the Centre. However, the TMC leader while speaking about West Bengal's regional politics said,&nbsp;"INDIA will be present in India (but) in Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight. In Bengal, it is only Trinamool that can teach the BJP a lesson. It can show the country the path to victory..."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budgeting-for-growth-indias-resilient-economy-set-to-shine-in-2024-683136">Budgeting for growth: India's resilient economy set to shine in 2024</a></p>

<p>The drama between TMC and the INDIA bloc started on Tuesday (Jan 23), when Banerjee rebuked Congress' demand for 10-12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, her bastion. Reportedly, she had only offered two seats to Congress because of its poor track record in the state.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-mandir-ayodhya-massive-crowd-breaks-cordon-police-urge-devotees-to-delay-visit-683118">Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Massive crowd breaks cordon, police urge devotees to delay visit</a></strong></p>

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<p>A top TMC leader reportedly said, "Our party supremo clearly said that we don't need to think about seat-sharing talks with the Congress. She said that the party had offered two seats to them. But the Congress at times is demanding 10-12 seats."&nbsp;</p>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal. Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.

The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal. Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections. This decision comes as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unleashed her verbal attack on Congress and showed her determination to chart the TMC's own course in the state. "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP." Speaking over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing yatra, the TMC leader said, "They are coming to my state... but did not have the courtesy to inform me, even though I am part of the INDIA bloc. So there is no relation with me, as far as Bengal is concerned." Also Read | Indian PM recounts anecdotes illustrating simplicity of Karpoori Thakur on his birth centenary Amid the charged-up electoral atmosphere, Congress has also reacted to the West Bengal CM's remarks. Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh said, "TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied..." INDIA bloc members joined their hands to oust the prime minister-led BJP government from the Centre. However, the TMC leader while speaking about West Bengal's regional politics said, "INDIA will be present in India (but) in Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight. In Bengal, it is only Trinamool that can teach the BJP a lesson. It can show the country the path to victory..." Also Read | Budgeting for growth: India's resilient economy set to shine in 2024 The drama between TMC and the INDIA bloc started on Tuesday (Jan 23), when Banerjee rebuked Congress' demand for 10-12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, her bastion. Reportedly, she had only offered two seats to Congress because of its poor track record in the state. Watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Massive crowd breaks cordon, police urge devotees to delay visit × A top TMC leader reportedly said, "Our party supremo clearly said that we don't need to think about seat-sharing talks with the Congress. She said that the party had offered two seats to them. But the Congress at times is demanding 10-12 seats." (With inputs from agencies)

Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone'

<p>Political tensions have erupted ahead of the consecration of the Ram Mandir in the north Indian temple city of Ayodhya and the upcoming general elections in the country.&nbsp;Congress party, alleging a series of attacks on its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (Unite India Justice March) in the northeastern state of Assam, is planning to hold nationwide protests. The party's leader Rahul Gandhi said he was prevented from entering a temple in the state.</p>

<p>Congress, reacting strongly to the "planned attacks" on its rally, said it will hold demonstrations across Assam and at district headquarters, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The yatra led by Rahul Gandhi was traveling through Biswanth district to Nagaon in Assam when Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's car was attacked in in Sonitpur district allegedly by members of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<p>Ramesh said, "We live in a democratic country. But here, even the local MP Gaurav Gogoi is being stopped. This is injustice."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-inauguration-full-schedule-of-ayodhya-temple-consecration-ceremony-today-682253">Ram Mandir inauguration: Full schedule of Ayodhya temple consecration ceremony today</a></p>

<p>Taking stock of the allegations, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma instructed the Assam Director General of Police to register a case and probe the matter.</p>

<p>According to All India Congress Committee (AICC) communications coordinator Mahima Singh, the alleged attackers created an intimidating situation and attempted to put a BJP flag on Ramesh's vehicle.</p>

<p>Singh said, "The camera, badge, and other apparatus of a vlogger who has been covering the yatra were snatched. Members of the social media team of the party were also manhandled."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/indian-govt-warns-devotees-against-ram-mandir-vip-entry-scam-using-hera-pheri-meme-post-goes-viral-682251">Indian govt warns devotees against Ram Mandir VIP entry scam using Hera Pheri meme; post goes viral</a></p>

<p>"The car of Ramesh ji and some others were moving to join the main yatra entourage near Jamugurighat when it came under attack," she added. In response to these developments, the Congress announced plans to hold protests across Assam.</p>

<p>In a separate development on Saturday (Jan 20), vehicles of the Yatra was attacked in&nbsp;North Lakhimpur.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-inauguration-private-jet-parking-lots-at-airports-near-ayodhya-are-full-682227">Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: Private jet parking lots at airports near Ayodhya are full</a></strong></p>

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<p>Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Congress Party will not be cowed down by this tactic of attack and intimidation employed by the BJP Government in Assam, which is responsible for this."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that Assam authorities barred him from going to the Batadrava Satra Temple in Nagaon district. "We want to visit the temple. What crime have I committed that I cannot visit the temple?" Gandhi asked adding, "We don't want to create any problems, we simply want to pray at the temple."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Assam leg of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, spanning 17 districts, began on January 18 and is scheduled to continue till January 25.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Political tensions have erupted ahead of the consecration of the Ram Mandir in the north Indian temple city of Ayodhya and the upcoming general elections in the country.

Political tensions have erupted ahead of the consecration of the Ram Mandir in the north Indian temple city of Ayodhya and the upcoming general elections in the country. Congress party, alleging a series of attacks on its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (Unite India Justice March) in the northeastern state of Assam, is planning to hold nationwide protests. The party's leader Rahul Gandhi said he was prevented from entering a temple in the state. Congress, reacting strongly to the "planned attacks" on its rally, said it will hold demonstrations across Assam and at district headquarters, media reports said. The yatra led by Rahul Gandhi was traveling through Biswanth district to Nagaon in Assam when Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's car was attacked in in Sonitpur district allegedly by members of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Ramesh said, "We live in a democratic country. But here, even the local MP Gaurav Gogoi is being stopped. This is injustice." Also Read | Ram Mandir inauguration: Full schedule of Ayodhya temple consecration ceremony today Taking stock of the allegations, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma instructed the Assam Director General of Police to register a case and probe the matter. According to All India Congress Committee (AICC) communications coordinator Mahima Singh, the alleged attackers created an intimidating situation and attempted to put a BJP flag on Ramesh's vehicle. Singh said, "The camera, badge, and other apparatus of a vlogger who has been covering the yatra were snatched. Members of the social media team of the party were also manhandled." Also Read | Indian govt warns devotees against Ram Mandir VIP entry scam using Hera Pheri meme; post goes viral "The car of Ramesh ji and some others were moving to join the main yatra entourage near Jamugurighat when it came under attack," she added. In response to these developments, the Congress announced plans to hold protests across Assam. In a separate development on Saturday (Jan 20), vehicles of the Yatra was attacked in North Lakhimpur. Watch | Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: Private jet parking lots at airports near Ayodhya are full × Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Congress Party will not be cowed down by this tactic of attack and intimidation employed by the BJP Government in Assam, which is responsible for this." Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that Assam authorities barred him from going to the Batadrava Satra Temple in Nagaon district. "We want to visit the temple. What crime have I committed that I cannot visit the temple?" Gandhi asked adding, "We don't want to create any problems, we simply want to pray at the temple." The Assam leg of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, spanning 17 districts, began on January 18 and is scheduled to continue till January 25. (With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra: Rahul Gandhi claims denied entry in Batadrava Satra Temple in Assam, Congress protests

<p>Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”. He also said that the notices were a part of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) vendetta against him ahead of the upcoming general elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Summons ignored for fourth time</strong></h2>

<p>This is the fourth time that the Delhi CM has skipped the ED&nbsp;summon&nbsp;over the past few&nbsp;months after he was asked to appear before the agency for questioning on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These four notices are illegal and invalid. Whenever such notices are sent by ED, they are quashed by the court,” said Kejriwal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “These notices are nothing but just political vendetta. An investigation was being done in this case for 2 years but they did not recover anything.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>WATCH |&nbsp;Probe agency ED refutes AAP leaders' claim of Kejriwal's likely arrest</p>

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<p>The statement comes amid reports of&nbsp;Delhi CM&nbsp;flying to Goa for a scheduled program between January 18 and 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ED had issued a third summon&nbsp;to CM Kejriwal on December 22 last year, in connection with the case, asking him to appear before the agency on January 3. That time too, the AAP leader had called the notice&nbsp;“illegal.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-summons-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-for-fourth-time-in-excise-policy-case-679607">ED summons Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal for fourth time in excise policy case</a></strong></p>

<p>After skipping the third summon&nbsp;of the agency, Kejriwal in his reply expressed his readiness to cooperate with the investigation but declined to appear on the summoned date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kejriwal earlier skipped the ED summons on January 3, citing Rajya Sabha polls and Republic Day preparations in the Indian capital city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Politically motivated’</strong></h2>

<p>AAP leaders have&nbsp;repeatedly claimed the BJP wants the Delhi CM to be arrested so that he cannot campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-excise-policy-scam-cases-sc-rejects-bail-pleas-of-ex-deputy-cm-manish-sisodia-652919">Delhi excise policy scam cases: India SC rejects bail pleas of ex-deputy CM Manish Sisodia</a></strong></p>

<p>“Why have I been called 2 months before the Lok Sabha elections? ED is being run by BJP...Their only intention is to arrest me so that I cannot campaign for the elections,” said Kejriwal, on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Delhi CM was issued the first summon&nbsp;by the ED in October last year when he was asked to appear by the central agency for questioning on November 2. The second was sent on December 18, asking him to appear before the central agency for questioning on December 21.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”.

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”. He also said that the notices were a part of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) vendetta against him ahead of the upcoming general elections. Summons ignored for fourth time This is the fourth time that the Delhi CM has skipped the ED summon over the past few months after he was asked to appear before the agency for questioning on Thursday. “These four notices are illegal and invalid. Whenever such notices are sent by ED, they are quashed by the court,” said Kejriwal. He added, “These notices are nothing but just political vendetta. An investigation was being done in this case for 2 years but they did not recover anything.” WATCH | Probe agency ED refutes AAP leaders' claim of Kejriwal's likely arrest The statement comes amid reports of Delhi CM flying to Goa for a scheduled program between January 18 and 20. The ED had issued a third summon to CM Kejriwal on December 22 last year, in connection with the case, asking him to appear before the agency on January 3. That time too, the AAP leader had called the notice “illegal.” ALSO READ | ED summons Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal for fourth time in excise policy case After skipping the third summon of the agency, Kejriwal in his reply expressed his readiness to cooperate with the investigation but declined to appear on the summoned date. Kejriwal earlier skipped the ED summons on January 3, citing Rajya Sabha polls and Republic Day preparations in the Indian capital city. ‘Politically motivated’ AAP leaders have repeatedly claimed the BJP wants the Delhi CM to be arrested so that he cannot campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. ALSO READ | Delhi excise policy scam cases: India SC rejects bail pleas of ex-deputy CM Manish Sisodia “Why have I been called 2 months before the Lok Sabha elections? ED is being run by BJP...Their only intention is to arrest me so that I cannot campaign for the elections,” said Kejriwal, on Thursday. The Delhi CM was issued the first summon by the ED in October last year when he was asked to appear by the central agency for questioning on November 2. The second was sent on December 18, asking him to appear before the central agency for questioning on December 21. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi excise policy scam: Arvind Kejriwal ignores another ED summon, calls it 'political vendetta'

Former Odisha Chief Minister and nine-time MP Giridhar Gamang, 80, returned to the Congress fold on Wednesday, nine years after he resigned from the party. A popular tribal leader, Gamang joined the BJP in May 2015.

Former Odisha CM and 9 term MP Giridhar Gamang joins Congress | Race To Power

<p>Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge along with Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi flagged off the outreach programme,&nbsp;Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, on Sunday (Jan 14) from violence-hit Manipur's Thoubal district near Imphal.</p>

<p>The yatra, which is set to cover over 6,700 kilometres over 67 days, traversing through 110 districts, will culminate in Mumbai on March 20 or 21.</p>

<p>Besides Manipur, the yatra will also cover four northeastern states which are Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="qme">🇮🇳❤️ <a href="https://t.co/nomGaId9Kr">pic.twitter.com/nomGaId9Kr</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1746497764463374845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will then move on to West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-celebrates-pongal-2024-says-festival-depicts-emotion-of-unity-679879">Prime Minister Modi celebrates Pongal 2024, says festival depicts ‘emotion of unity’</a></p>

<p>The starting point of the yatra was chosen as Manipur against the backdrop of the ongoing violence in the state which has so far killed nearly 180 since the month of May.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatJodoNyayYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatJodoNyayYatra</a> begins, embarking on a journey to address critical issues &amp; champion justice.<br />
<br />
Join us in this collective effort for positive change! 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
𝐍𝐲𝐚𝐲 𝐊𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐪 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐤 <a href="https://t.co/SPz8QmFP1l">pic.twitter.com/SPz8QmFP1l</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1746494242271404426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'We are going through period of injustice,' says Rahul Gandhi</strong></h2>

<p>While addressing people after kickstarting the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Rahul Gandhi assured that his party would bring peace and harmony to the state after claiming that the people in the country were facing a period of "great injustice".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Congress launches Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Manipur</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The questions arose- why the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. It is because we are going through a period of great injustice in India. It is of all kinds - social, political and economical," he said after launching his yatra from Manipur's Thoubal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We understand the pain that the people of Manipur have been through.<br />
<br />
Manipur has lost what it valued the most because of the politics of the BJP-RSS and the hatred they instill.<br />
<br />
We will bring back the harmony, peace and affection that the state has always been known for.<br />
<br />
:… <a href="https://t.co/7ArwVuDkcR">pic.twitter.com/7ArwVuDkcR</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1746494331517833400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress leader also took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not planning a visit to the conflict-torn state.</p>

<p>"I've been in politics since 2004 and for the first time, I visited a place in India where the entire infrastructure of governance has collapsed. After 29th June (his visit to state), Manipur wasn't Manipur anymore, it got divided and hatred was spread everywhere, lakhs of people suffered loss. People lost their loved ones in front of their eyes. And till now, the Indian PM has not come here to wipe your tears and hold your hand. It is a shameful thing," Rahul said.</p>

<p>He then accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of stealing the essence of the state and affirmed that his party would bring back the harmony and peace that Manipur was known for.</p>

<p>"We are here to listen to you, share your pain, and present a new vision of India that is one of harmony and equity. We understand your loss and grief and will bring back the harmony and peace for which Manipur was known," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge along with Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi flagged off the outreach programme, Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, on Sunday (Jan 14) from violence-hit Manipur's Thoubal district near Imphal.

Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge along with Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi flagged off the outreach programme, Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, on Sunday (Jan 14) from violence-hit Manipur's Thoubal district near Imphal. The yatra, which is set to cover over 6,700 kilometres over 67 days, traversing through 110 districts, will culminate in Mumbai on March 20 or 21. Besides Manipur, the yatra will also cover four northeastern states which are Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam. 🇮🇳❤️ pic.twitter.com/nomGaId9Kr — Congress (@INCIndia) January 14, 2024 × It will then move on to West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Also read: Prime Minister Modi celebrates Pongal 2024, says festival depicts ‘emotion of unity’ The starting point of the yatra was chosen as Manipur against the backdrop of the ongoing violence in the state which has so far killed nearly 180 since the month of May. The #BharatJodoNyayYatra begins, embarking on a journey to address critical issues & champion justice. Join us in this collective effort for positive change! 🇮🇳 𝐍𝐲𝐚𝐲 𝐊𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐪 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐧𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐤 pic.twitter.com/SPz8QmFP1l — Congress (@INCIndia) January 14, 2024 × 'We are going through period of injustice,' says Rahul Gandhi While addressing people after kickstarting the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Rahul Gandhi assured that his party would bring peace and harmony to the state after claiming that the people in the country were facing a period of "great injustice". WATCH | Congress launches Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Manipur × "The questions arose- why the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. It is because we are going through a period of great injustice in India. It is of all kinds - social, political and economical," he said after launching his yatra from Manipur's Thoubal. We understand the pain that the people of Manipur have been through. Manipur has lost what it valued the most because of the politics of the BJP-RSS and the hatred they instill. We will bring back the harmony, peace and affection that the state has always been known for. :… pic.twitter.com/7ArwVuDkcR — Congress (@INCIndia) January 14, 2024 × The Congress leader also took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not planning a visit to the conflict-torn state. "I've been in politics since 2004 and for the first time, I visited a place in India where the entire infrastructure of governance has collapsed. After 29th June (his visit to state), Manipur wasn't Manipur anymore, it got divided and hatred was spread everywhere, lakhs of people suffered loss. People lost their loved ones in front of their eyes. And till now, the Indian PM has not come here to wipe your tears and hold your hand. It is a shameful thing," Rahul said. He then accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of stealing the essence of the state and affirmed that his party would bring back the harmony and peace that Manipur was known for. "We are here to listen to you, share your pain, and present a new vision of India that is one of harmony and equity. We understand your loss and grief and will bring back the harmony and peace for which Manipur was known," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress kickstarts Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from violence-hit Manipur's Thoubal

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