Five states in the World's biggest democracy are expecting in poll results. Counting is still underway in five Indian states of Uttar Pradesh , Punjab, Manipur, Uttarakhand and Goa for 690 seats.

BJP breaches halfway mark in UP | Assembly poll in 5 states | India Election Results | Latest News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party is all set to return to power in Goa after comfortably beating&nbsp;all the other parties.

Out of 40 assembly seats, BJP easily crossed the halfway mark by winning 20 seats, according to the Election Commission portal.

Three Independent candidates have also vouched their support to the saffron party.

The principal rival party, Rahul Gandhi-led the Indian National Congress, has managed to pocket only 10 seats and is leading in one more constituency.

<img alt="(Credit: Election Commission of India) Party-wise result in Goa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4cd5528-ed8f-442e-be2e-6729676bb23b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EC_0.jpg" />

The results come as a massive jolt to the Gandhi scion, whose party has been desperately trying hard to stay relevant in the changing political landscape in India.

Incumbent Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who is expected to helm the affairs again, thanked the people for showing support.

He also acknowledged that his victory was a tight contest and could have gone either way with low margins.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parkash-singh-badal-charanjit-channi-navjot-sidhu-amarinder-singh-and-majithia-lose-election-460903">Also read | Parkash Singh Badal, Charanjit Channi, Navjot Sidhu, Amarinder Singh and Majithia lose election</a>

“It was very challenging for me as I was campaigning state-wise but couldn't reach my own constituency. My workers campaigned for me. I've won with low margins, but we (BJP) have won with a majority. It's a big deal. 20 seats confirmed, 3 confirmed their support,” Sawant told ANI news agency.

Goa witnessed a multi-cornered contest with parties including the BJP, Congress, Trinamool Congress, and AAP in the fray.

In 2017, the Congress had emerged as the single largest party in the state, winning 17 seats, but it wasn’t able to form the government.

The BJP, which won 13 seats, managed to form the government with the support of the Goa Forward Party and the MGP which had won three seats each, and two independents.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party is all set to return to power in Goa after comfortably beating all the other parties. Out of 40 assembly seats, BJP easily crossed the halfway mark by winning 20 seats, according to the Election Commission portal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party is all set to return to power in Goa after comfortably beating all the other parties. Out of 40 assembly seats, BJP easily crossed the halfway mark by winning 20 seats, according to the Election Commission portal. Three Independent candidates have also vouched their support to the saffron party. The principal rival party, Rahul Gandhi-led the Indian National Congress, has managed to pocket only 10 seats and is leading in one more constituency. The results come as a massive jolt to the Gandhi scion, whose party has been desperately trying hard to stay relevant in the changing political landscape in India. Incumbent Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who is expected to helm the affairs again, thanked the people for showing support. He also acknowledged that his victory was a tight contest and could have gone either way with low margins. Also read | Parkash Singh Badal, Charanjit Channi, Navjot Sidhu, Amarinder Singh and Majithia lose election “It was very challenging for me as I was campaigning state-wise but couldn't reach my own constituency. My workers campaigned for me. I've won with low margins, but we (BJP) have won with a majority. It's a big deal. 20 seats confirmed, 3 confirmed their support,” Sawant told ANI news agency. Goa witnessed a multi-cornered contest with parties including the BJP, Congress, Trinamool Congress, and AAP in the fray. In 2017, the Congress had emerged as the single largest party in the state, winning 17 seats, but it wasn’t able to form the government. The BJP, which won 13 seats, managed to form the government with the support of the Goa Forward Party and the MGP which had won three seats each, and two independents. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi’s BJP sweeps Goa assembly elections, all set to form government

Zee News, which is one of the country’s largest media houses, on Monday broadcast the results of the biggest exit polls for the hard-fought assembly elections 2022 in five major states – UP, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur.

Zee News had conducted the exit polls to check the mood of the voters in five states which went to the polls recently. The intensity of the campaign can be gauged by the fact that Prime Minister Modi had to come on the road to campaign in roadshows.

Seat projection(403)

403 seats of Uttar Pradesh went to the polls in seven phases— February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27, March 3 and 7. According to the projections for Uttar Pradesh, the ruling BJP is likely to emerge as a big winner by winning between 223- 248 seats.&nbsp;

Though the ruling party is projected to win much fewer seats this time as compared to the 2017 polls, the Zee News exit poll predicting a thumping victory for BJP in Uttar Pradesh also points to voters' continued trust in Yogi Adityanath's government and PM Narendra Modi's decisive leadership.&nbsp;

Driven by the Modi wave, the BJP had stormed to power in UP after 14 years, securing a three-fourths majority and demolishing rivals Samajwadi Party-Congress coalition and Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in 2017 polls.

Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party-led alliance is expected to win between 138-157 seats this time. Despite hectic campaigning by Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka, the Congress party is only expected to win between 4-9 seats. While Mayawati’s BSP will disappoint again as it is projected to win just 5 to 11 seats, Others are like to bag between 3-5 seats.

 
Vote share

Among other projections, the ruling BJP+ is likely to secure around 39 per cent of the total votes polled, SP+ 34 per cent, BSP 13 per cent, Congress 6 per cent and Others 8 per cent.

Phase-wise seat projection 
1st phase - &nbsp;58 seats

 
In Phase 1, BJP is projected to get 34-38 off 58 seats, SP+ may get 19-21 seats, BSP 01-02.

(BJP+ 34- 38; SP+ 19- 21; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0)

 
Phase 2 - 55 seats&nbsp;

In Phase 2, BJP+ is predicted to get 21-23 seats of the total 55, SP+ 29-33, BSP 01-02, Congress And Others 00.

(BJP+ &nbsp; 21- 23; SP+ 29- 33; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0)

 
Phase 3 - 59 &nbsp;seats

In Phase 3, BJP+ might win 38-42 seats of the total 59, SP+ 17-19, Congress 01-02, BSP – 00

(BJP+ &nbsp;38- 42; SP+ 17- 19; BSP 0; CONG 1-2; OTH 0)

 
Phase 4 - 59 seats

In Phase 4, BJP+ expected to get 41-45 seats, SP+ 14-16, BSP- 01-02.

(BJP+ 41-45; SP+ &nbsp; 14-16; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0)

 
Phase 5 - 61 seats

In Phase 5, BJP+ might win 36-40 seats, SP+ 18-20, BSP 00, Cong 01-03, Others 01-03.

(BJP+ 36-40; SP+ 18-20; BSP 0; CONG 1-3; OTH 1-3)

&nbsp;

Phase 6 - seats 57

In Phase 6, BJP+ might win BJP+ 30-34 seats; SP+ 19-22; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-3; OTH 0.

(BJP+ 30-34; SP+ 19-22; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-3; OTH 0)

 
Phase 7- &nbsp;sets 54

In Phase 7, the ruling BJP+ is expected to win 23-27 seats; SP+ 22-26; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-2; OTH 1-3.

BJP+ 23-27; SP+ 22-26; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-2; OTH 1-3.

Interestingly ahead of Zee exit polls results, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had claimed that his party will win over 300 seats and the BJP will be wiped out from UP. “After the seventh and final phase of polling, the BJP will be wiped off from the state. The SP alliance is forming a majority government after March 10 with over 300 seats,” Akhilesh exuded confidence.

As per the Election Commission of India directives, the exit poll findings can be released only after the conclusion of voting in all the states that go to the polls simultaneously. The embargo on exit polls was lifted after the conclusion of the seventh phase of assembly polls in UP, around 6.30pm.

Zee News, which is one of the country’s largest media houses, on Monday broadcast the results of the biggest exit polls for the hard-fought assembly elections 2022 in five major states – UP, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur.

Zee News, which is one of the country’s largest media houses, on Monday broadcast the results of the biggest exit polls for the hard-fought assembly elections 2022 in five major states – UP, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur. Zee News had conducted the exit polls to check the mood of the voters in five states which went to the polls recently. The intensity of the campaign can be gauged by the fact that Prime Minister Modi had to come on the road to campaign in roadshows. Seat projection(403) 403 seats of Uttar Pradesh went to the polls in seven phases— February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27, March 3 and 7. According to the projections for Uttar Pradesh, the ruling BJP is likely to emerge as a big winner by winning between 223- 248 seats. Though the ruling party is projected to win much fewer seats this time as compared to the 2017 polls, the Zee News exit poll predicting a thumping victory for BJP in Uttar Pradesh also points to voters' continued trust in Yogi Adityanath's government and PM Narendra Modi's decisive leadership. Driven by the Modi wave, the BJP had stormed to power in UP after 14 years, securing a three-fourths majority and demolishing rivals Samajwadi Party-Congress coalition and Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in 2017 polls. Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party-led alliance is expected to win between 138-157 seats this time. Despite hectic campaigning by Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka, the Congress party is only expected to win between 4-9 seats. While Mayawati’s BSP will disappoint again as it is projected to win just 5 to 11 seats, Others are like to bag between 3-5 seats. Vote share Among other projections, the ruling BJP+ is likely to secure around 39 per cent of the total votes polled, SP+ 34 per cent, BSP 13 per cent, Congress 6 per cent and Others 8 per cent. Phase-wise seat projection 1st phase - 58 seats In Phase 1, BJP is projected to get 34-38 off 58 seats, SP+ may get 19-21 seats, BSP 01-02. (BJP+ 34- 38; SP+ 19- 21; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0) Phase 2 - 55 seats In Phase 2, BJP+ is predicted to get 21-23 seats of the total 55, SP+ 29-33, BSP 01-02, Congress And Others 00. (BJP+ 21- 23; SP+ 29- 33; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0) Phase 3 - 59 seats In Phase 3, BJP+ might win 38-42 seats of the total 59, SP+ 17-19, Congress 01-02, BSP – 00 (BJP+ 38- 42; SP+ 17- 19; BSP 0; CONG 1-2; OTH 0) Phase 4 - 59 seats In Phase 4, BJP+ expected to get 41-45 seats, SP+ 14-16, BSP- 01-02. (BJP+ 41-45; SP+ 14-16; BSP 1-2; CONG 0; OTH 0) Phase 5 - 61 seats In Phase 5, BJP+ might win 36-40 seats, SP+ 18-20, BSP 00, Cong 01-03, Others 01-03. (BJP+ 36-40; SP+ 18-20; BSP 0; CONG 1-3; OTH 1-3) Phase 6 - seats 57 In Phase 6, BJP+ might win BJP+ 30-34 seats; SP+ 19-22; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-3; OTH 0. (BJP+ 30-34; SP+ 19-22; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-3; OTH 0) Phase 7- sets 54 In Phase 7, the ruling BJP+ is expected to win 23-27 seats; SP+ 22-26; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-2; OTH 1-3. BJP+ 23-27; SP+ 22-26; BSP 1-3; CONG 1-2; OTH 1-3. Interestingly ahead of Zee exit polls results, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had claimed that his party will win over 300 seats and the BJP will be wiped out from UP. “After the seventh and final phase of polling, the BJP will be wiped off from the state. The SP alliance is forming a majority government after March 10 with over 300 seats,” Akhilesh exuded confidence. As per the Election Commission of India directives, the exit poll findings can be released only after the conclusion of voting in all the states that go to the polls simultaneously. The embargo on exit polls was lifted after the conclusion of the seventh phase of assembly polls in UP, around 6.30pm.

India Assembly elections 2022: Exit poll - BJP likely to retain power in Uttar Pradesh

Indian wrestler Dalip Singh Rana, 'the Great Khali', on Thursday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;

Khali has joined the BJP in presence of Union Minister Jitendra Singh and party national general secretary Arun Singh and Member of Parliament Sunita Duggal at party national headquarters.&nbsp;

Welcoming the WWE wrestler, Jitendra Singh said that like his strong physique and thoughts, Khali will work towards strengthening the party.&nbsp;

"The Great Khali will remain a source of inspiration for the youth in the country. I am thankful to him for joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi's journey to take the country forward. People from all sections of the society are joining the BJP," the Union Minister said.&nbsp;

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BJP national general secretary Arun Singh said, "BJP is the world's largest party and the great Khali, who defeated many famous wrestlers of the world, is joining the party. Son of a farmer, who also served as an officer in Punjab Police, Khali has made the country proud and I am happy that he is joining the BJP."&nbsp;

"I have joined the BJP as I am inspired and influenced by the BJP's policy for the nation. The BJP's policy is aimed at the country's progress. I admire the work being done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the country. So, I thought why not be a part of his journey for the nation's development. I will do whatever responsibility is given to me," Khali said after joining the BJP.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Professional wrestler Dalip Singh Rana, also known as The Great Khali, joins BJP in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/BmB7WbpZzx">pic.twitter.com/BmB7WbpZzx</a>
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Professional WWE wrestler Khali also acted in some movies and participated in reality show Big Boss.&nbsp;

Born in Himachal Pradesh, Khali served in Punjab Police in the 1990s before becoming a professional wrestler.&nbsp;

Indian wrestler Dalip Singh Rana, 'the Great Khali', on Thursday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Khali has joined the BJP in presence of Union Minister Jitendra Singh and party national general secretary Arun Singh and Member of Parliament Sunita Duggal at party national headquarters.

Indian wrestler Dalip Singh Rana, 'the Great Khali', on Thursday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Khali has joined the BJP in presence of Union Minister Jitendra Singh and party national general secretary Arun Singh and Member of Parliament Sunita Duggal at party national headquarters. Welcoming the WWE wrestler, Jitendra Singh said that like his strong physique and thoughts, Khali will work towards strengthening the party. "The Great Khali will remain a source of inspiration for the youth in the country. I am thankful to him for joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi's journey to take the country forward. People from all sections of the society are joining the BJP," the Union Minister said. ALSO READ | EAM Jaishankar to visit Munich, Paris; India, Australia, France FMs trilateral on anvil BJP national general secretary Arun Singh said, "BJP is the world's largest party and the great Khali, who defeated many famous wrestlers of the world, is joining the party. Son of a farmer, who also served as an officer in Punjab Police, Khali has made the country proud and I am happy that he is joining the BJP." "I have joined the BJP as I am inspired and influenced by the BJP's policy for the nation. The BJP's policy is aimed at the country's progress. I admire the work being done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the country. So, I thought why not be a part of his journey for the nation's development. I will do whatever responsibility is given to me," Khali said after joining the BJP. #WATCH Professional wrestler Dalip Singh Rana, also known as The Great Khali, joins BJP in Delhi pic.twitter.com/BmB7WbpZzx — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2022 × Professional WWE wrestler Khali also acted in some movies and participated in reality show Big Boss. Born in Himachal Pradesh, Khali served in Punjab Police in the 1990s before becoming a professional wrestler.

WWE wrestler 'The Great Khali' joins Bharatiya Janata Party

"BJP began winning after losing again and again. When we win, we try to connect to grassroots and leave no stone unturned in winning hearts," says Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an big interview before assembly elections in 5 states of the country.

Big Interview: BJP tries to leave no stone unturned in winning hearts, says Indian PM Narendra Modi

Ahead of the Assembly elections in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, former chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav joined the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party(BJP) on Wednesday.

Several ministers have quit the chief minister Yogi Adityanath's cabinet in the last few days including influential leader Swami Prasad Maurya.

Other leaders including &nbsp;Dharam Singh Saini, Dara Singh Chouhan also submitted their resignations. MLA Mukesh Verma had earlier resigned from the BJP. Reports say at least nine state lawmakers have left the BJP in a matter of days including Avtar Singh Bhadana and Roshan Lal Varma.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-crucial-states-of-india-including-punjab-uttar-pradesh-gear-up-for-bellwether-local-polls-438801">Also Read:&nbsp;Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls</a>

Swami Prasad Maurya had joined the BJP in 2017 ahead of the state elections. He had fought the last three state elections on a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) ticket. The BSP had won the state elections in 2007 under former chief minister Mayawati.&nbsp;

State opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) leader&nbsp;Akhilesh Yadav had welcomed Maurya's move saying "warm welcome and greetings".&nbsp;

Aparna Yadav's inclusion is the most high profile entry into the BJP. The Samajwadi Party was in power in 2017 but was trounced by Yogi Adityanath's BJP in the elections held five years ago.

Aparna Yadav while joining the BJP said: "The nation always comes first for me. I admire PM Modi's work."

The BJP had won 320 seats in the 403-seat Uttar Pradesh assembly in 2017.

The state will go to the polls from February 10 till March 7 in a seven-phase election. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Ahead of the Assembly elections in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, former chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav joined the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party(BJP) on Wednesday.

Ahead of the Assembly elections in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, former chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav joined the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party(BJP) on Wednesday. Several ministers have quit the chief minister Yogi Adityanath's cabinet in the last few days including influential leader Swami Prasad Maurya. Other leaders including Dharam Singh Saini, Dara Singh Chouhan also submitted their resignations. MLA Mukesh Verma had earlier resigned from the BJP. Reports say at least nine state lawmakers have left the BJP in a matter of days including Avtar Singh Bhadana and Roshan Lal Varma. Also Read: Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls Swami Prasad Maurya had joined the BJP in 2017 ahead of the state elections. He had fought the last three state elections on a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) ticket. The BSP had won the state elections in 2007 under former chief minister Mayawati. State opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav had welcomed Maurya's move saying "warm welcome and greetings". Aparna Yadav's inclusion is the most high profile entry into the BJP. The Samajwadi Party was in power in 2017 but was trounced by Yogi Adityanath's BJP in the elections held five years ago. Aparna Yadav while joining the BJP said: "The nation always comes first for me. I admire PM Modi's work." The BJP had won 320 seats in the 403-seat Uttar Pradesh assembly in 2017. The state will go to the polls from February 10 till March 7 in a seven-phase election. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (With inputs from Agencies)

Uttar Pradesh elections: Ex-chief minister's daughter-in-law Aparna Yadav joins BJP

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. &nbsp;

The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-interacts-with-startups-calls-for-innovating-for-india-from-india-444939" hreflang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' &nbsp;</a>

Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. &nbsp;

The elections in the state will begin from February 10. &nbsp;

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Joint press conference by Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dpradhanbjp</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/ArunSinghbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArunSinghbjp</a> at BJP HQ in New Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT">https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1482250983984234497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/general-bipin-rawat-copter-crash-what-is-controlled-flight-into-terrain-444914" hreflang="en">General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain?</a>

CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state.

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. The elections in the state will begin from February 10. Joint press conference by Shri @dpradhanbjp and Shri @ArunSinghbjp at BJP HQ in New Delhi. https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT — BJP (@BJP4India) January 15, 2022 × During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. Also Read: General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain? CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. "The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP announces list of names of 107 candidates for polls in India’s UP state

The BJP parliamentary board will finalise the lists of candidates for the upcoming Goa assembly elections, according to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.

"Parliamentary Board meeting is scheduled on January 16 in Delhi. I will be going to Delhi along with the state president on January 15. By January 16 evening the names will be declared," Sawant told reporters here.

The names of potential candidates are currently being shortlisted by the ruling party's state unit, according to the Chief Minister.

On February 14, elections for 40 seats in the state legislative assembly will be conducted.&nbsp;

The BJP is heading into the polls on its own and its leaders have stated that the party would win 22 plus seats in 2022.

Also on January 8, in response to an increase in COVID-19 cases in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that public meetings in the poll-bound coastal state would be limited to 100 people in outdoor venues and 50% of the seating capacity or maximum 100 in indoor venues.

The limitations were put in place to prevent big crowds from forming in marketplaces, public gatherings, political events, and beaches, among other areas. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The BJP parliamentary board will finalise the lists of candidates for the upcoming Goa assembly elections, according to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. "Parliamentary Board meeting is scheduled on January 16 in Delhi.

The BJP parliamentary board will finalise the lists of candidates for the upcoming Goa assembly elections, according to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. "Parliamentary Board meeting is scheduled on January 16 in Delhi. I will be going to Delhi along with the state president on January 15. By January 16 evening the names will be declared," Sawant told reporters here. The names of potential candidates are currently being shortlisted by the ruling party's state unit, according to the Chief Minister. On February 14, elections for 40 seats in the state legislative assembly will be conducted. The BJP is heading into the polls on its own and its leaders have stated that the party would win 22 plus seats in 2022. Also on January 8, in response to an increase in COVID-19 cases in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that public meetings in the poll-bound coastal state would be limited to 100 people in outdoor venues and 50% of the seating capacity or maximum 100 in indoor venues. The limitations were put in place to prevent big crowds from forming in marketplaces, public gatherings, political events, and beaches, among other areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Assembly elections 2022: BJP candidates for Goa to be finalised by Jan 16, says CM Pramod Sawant

The BJP on Wednesday hailed the central government's decision to reduce petrol and diesel prices as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Diwali gift.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president J P Nadda said the decision will boost consumption and keep the inflation low.

"I thank @narendramodi Ji's Gov for reducing Excise Duty on Petrol &amp; Diesel on the eve of Diwali by Rs 5 and Rs 10 respectively from tomorrow. The reduction in excise duty on Petrol &amp; Diesel will also boost consumption and keep inflation low, thus helping poor &amp; middle classes," Nadda said in a tweet.

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I thank <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji’s Gov for reducing Excise Duty on Petrol &amp; Diesel on the eve of Diwali 
by Rs. 5 and Rs. 10 respectively from tomorrow. 
The reduction in excise duty on Petrol &amp; Diesel will also boost consumption and keep inflation low, thus helping poor &amp; middle classes.
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1455918537961209857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni said Modi has given a glorious gift on Diwali.

The government on Wednesday cut the excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 5 and Rs 10 respectively to bring down retail rates from record highs.

The decision is likely to be greeted as a long expected succour to consumers, who have been reeling under steep price rises in both fuels almost the entire year.

The price of petrol in the national capital stood at Rs 110.08 on Wednesday, having risen by Rs 20 in last six months alone.

The year has seen a steep rise in prices of petrol and diesel throughout, with as many as 17 and 20 incidents of price rise for both fuels till September.

The BJP on Wednesday hailed the central government's decision to reduce petrol and diesel prices as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Diwali gift. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president J P Nadda said the decision will boost consumption and keep the inflation low.

The BJP on Wednesday hailed the central government's decision to reduce petrol and diesel prices as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Diwali gift. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president J P Nadda said the decision will boost consumption and keep the inflation low. "I thank @narendramodi Ji's Gov for reducing Excise Duty on Petrol & Diesel on the eve of Diwali by Rs 5 and Rs 10 respectively from tomorrow. The reduction in excise duty on Petrol & Diesel will also boost consumption and keep inflation low, thus helping poor & middle classes," Nadda said in a tweet. I thank @narendramodi Ji’s Gov for reducing Excise Duty on Petrol & Diesel on the eve of Diwali by Rs. 5 and Rs. 10 respectively from tomorrow. The reduction in excise duty on Petrol & Diesel will also boost consumption and keep inflation low, thus helping poor & middle classes. — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) November 3, 2021 × BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni said Modi has given a glorious gift on Diwali. The government on Wednesday cut the excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 5 and Rs 10 respectively to bring down retail rates from record highs. The decision is likely to be greeted as a long expected succour to consumers, who have been reeling under steep price rises in both fuels almost the entire year. The price of petrol in the national capital stood at Rs 110.08 on Wednesday, having risen by Rs 20 in last six months alone. The year has seen a steep rise in prices of petrol and diesel throughout, with as many as 17 and 20 incidents of price rise for both fuels till September.

BJP lauds cut in petrol, diesel prices

A month after his unceremonious resignation from the Congress party, ex-Chief of Punjab Captain Amarinder Singh announced his intention to launch his own political organisation, according to media reports.

In an interview with The Print, the former Congress leader, who resigned due to "continuous humiliation," claimed his party is likely to establish a pre-poll coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Aside from that, he is trying to form an alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) splinter groups, particularly the Dhindsa and Brahmpura factions, before the Punjab elections early next year.&nbsp;

Captain Amarinder Singh, a well regarded and popular leader, single-handedly revived the Congress in Punjab after 10 years, defeating the SAD-BJP coalition as well as the AAP with a landslide win of 77 seats in the 117-member Assembly.

Meanwhile, with 20 seats, the Aam Aadmi Party emerged as the biggest opposition.&nbsp;

Captain Amarinder Singh, without a question, deserves credit for the Congress' resurgence in Punjab, not just in the 2017 elections, but well beyond.

Already responsible for Operation Blue Star in 1984, the Congress regime was linked to enforced disappearances and encounter murders of Sikhs in the 1990s.

The party needed a face that wasn't tarnished by its history, which is where Captain Amarinder Singh stepped in.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A month after his unceremonious resignation from the Congress party, ex-Chief of Punjab Captain Amarinder Singh announced his intention to launch his own political organisation, according to media reports.

A month after his unceremonious resignation from the Congress party, ex-Chief of Punjab Captain Amarinder Singh announced his intention to launch his own political organisation, according to media reports. In an interview with The Print, the former Congress leader, who resigned due to "continuous humiliation," claimed his party is likely to establish a pre-poll coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Aside from that, he is trying to form an alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) splinter groups, particularly the Dhindsa and Brahmpura factions, before the Punjab elections early next year. Captain Amarinder Singh, a well regarded and popular leader, single-handedly revived the Congress in Punjab after 10 years, defeating the SAD-BJP coalition as well as the AAP with a landslide win of 77 seats in the 117-member Assembly. Meanwhile, with 20 seats, the Aam Aadmi Party emerged as the biggest opposition. Captain Amarinder Singh, without a question, deserves credit for the Congress' resurgence in Punjab, not just in the 2017 elections, but well beyond. Already responsible for Operation Blue Star in 1984, the Congress regime was linked to enforced disappearances and encounter murders of Sikhs in the 1990s. The party needed a face that wasn't tarnished by its history, which is where Captain Amarinder Singh stepped in. (With inputs from agencies)

Amarinder Singh to launch his own party before Punjab polls, may ally with BJP: Report

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab&nbsp;state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

According to reports, Singh visited Shah to discuss the prevailing security scenario in the border state of Punjab and the ongoing farmers’ agitation.&nbsp;This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Amarinder resigned from the chief minister's post.&nbsp;

Amarinder had reached Delhi on Tuesday, saying that he was on a personal visit.

“I am here to vacate Kapurthala House (the official residence of Punjab Chief Minister in Delhi). I am not going to meet any politician here,” he told reporters.

His media advisor Raveen Thukral had said that “too much being read into Captain Amarinder’s visit to Delhi”.

Earlier this month, Amarinder stepped down from as the Punjab Chief Minister a year ahead of elections, after a long and bitter feud with detractors, including cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was elevated by the Gandhis to the post of the party chief.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-punjab-minister-quits-after-navjot-sidhu-resigns-as-state-congress-chief-416667">India's Punjab minister quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief</a>

While stepping down as chief minister, Amarinder had slammed the party leadership saying he had been let down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-day-after-bitter-power-tussle-indias-northern-punjab-state-gets-new-cm-414241">A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM</a>

The former chief minister further said he felt “humiliated”, adding that he had been summoned thrice by the central leadership in the past two months.

However, it was Amarinder who had the last laugh after Sidhu resigned as the Congress’ Punjab unit president.

“I told you so...he is not a stable man and not fit for the border state of Punjab,” Amarinder had said in a tweet.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Amarinder Singh, who recently resigned from the post of India's Punjab state chief minister, met the country’s home minister Amit Shah at his residence in the national capital Delhi on Wednesday, triggering speculations of him ditching the Congress party and joining the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to reports, Singh visited Shah to discuss the prevailing security scenario in the border state of Punjab and the ongoing farmers’ agitation. This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Amarinder resigned from the chief minister's post. Amarinder had reached Delhi on Tuesday, saying that he was on a personal visit. “I am here to vacate Kapurthala House (the official residence of Punjab Chief Minister in Delhi). I am not going to meet any politician here,” he told reporters. His media advisor Raveen Thukral had said that “too much being read into Captain Amarinder’s visit to Delhi”. Earlier this month, Amarinder stepped down from as the Punjab Chief Minister a year ahead of elections, after a long and bitter feud with detractors, including cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was elevated by the Gandhis to the post of the party chief. Also read | India's Punjab minister quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief While stepping down as chief minister, Amarinder had slammed the party leadership saying he had been let down. Also read | A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM The former chief minister further said he felt “humiliated”, adding that he had been summoned thrice by the central leadership in the past two months. However, it was Amarinder who had the last laugh after Sidhu resigned as the Congress’ Punjab unit president. “I told you so...he is not a stable man and not fit for the border state of Punjab,” Amarinder had said in a tweet. (With inputs from agencies)

Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister & BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term.

The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP.

"Today Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa`s second year in the fourth term has completed. He has done good work. He will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. Yediyurappa ji is our senior leader. There are various reports in the news. What is the truth what is a lie, I really do not know. What is going to happen, only time shall decide. I cannot speak much on this issue," CT Ravi was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

ANI quoted sources to say that replacing four-time chief minister BS Yediyurappa, a Lingayat strongman, from somebody from another community would not be favourable for BJP.

Meanwhile, BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Sunday also ruled out any crisis in the party`s state unit and said Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has done a good job."It is your thinking, we do not think this way," said Nadda on being asked whether there is a political crisis in Karnataka.

Addressing a press conference held in Goa, the BJP chief, who is on a two-day visit to Goa ahead of Assembly elections next year, said Yediyurappa is running Karnataka well.

"He has done good work. He is running Karnataka well. Yediyurappa is handling things on his own," said Nadda on being asked about Yediyurappa`s leadership.

For the past several weeks, speculations are doing rounds about Yediyurappa`s exit and the change of guard in the state.

On Thursday, Yediyurappa had expressed to abide by the party`s high command decision and asserted that he will follow the directions of the BJP chief. Yediyurappa strongly denied having tendered his resignation amid speculations about leadership change in Karnataka earlier.

Last month, some BJP MLAs had demanded that Yediyurappa must step down as chief minister.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term. The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yediyurappa resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka on Monday. he had completed two years in his current term. The BJP appeared to give out conciliatory signals as party general secretary CT Ravi said that Yediyurappa will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. "Today Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa`s second year in the fourth term has completed. He has done good work. He will continue to guide Karnataka and BJP. Yediyurappa ji is our senior leader. There are various reports in the news. What is the truth what is a lie, I really do not know. What is going to happen, only time shall decide. I cannot speak much on this issue," CT Ravi was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. ANI quoted sources to say that replacing four-time chief minister BS Yediyurappa, a Lingayat strongman, from somebody from another community would not be favourable for BJP. Meanwhile, BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Sunday also ruled out any crisis in the party`s state unit and said Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has done a good job."It is your thinking, we do not think this way," said Nadda on being asked whether there is a political crisis in Karnataka. Addressing a press conference held in Goa, the BJP chief, who is on a two-day visit to Goa ahead of Assembly elections next year, said Yediyurappa is running Karnataka well. "He has done good work. He is running Karnataka well. Yediyurappa is handling things on his own," said Nadda on being asked about Yediyurappa`s leadership. For the past several weeks, speculations are doing rounds about Yediyurappa`s exit and the change of guard in the state. On Thursday, Yediyurappa had expressed to abide by the party`s high command decision and asserted that he will follow the directions of the BJP chief. Yediyurappa strongly denied having tendered his resignation amid speculations about leadership change in Karnataka earlier. Last month, some BJP MLAs had demanded that Yediyurappa must step down as chief minister. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP strongman Yediyurappa resigns as CM of southern Indian state Karnataka

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) foreign affairs department in-charge Vijay Chauthaliwale said on Sunday that India views Nepal as a sovereign nation and Nepal will not find a better friend than PM Modi.&nbsp;

“The people of Nepal will not find better friend and well-wisher than PM Modi. Despite miscommunication at some level, relations with Nepal remains strong," said Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale at NIICE Global Conclave’s session “India-Nepal relation”.&nbsp;

He said that India has signed several agreements and accords with the intention of a very strong partnership with Nepal.&nbsp;

He believes the political parties and leaders in both countries need to strengthen and initiate proper dialogue.&nbsp;

“In the recent past, the structured dialogues between both the countries have not been functional. The BJP is keen to initiate this dialogue. The exchange of dialogues with Nepali political leaders will be effective,” Chauthaiwale added.&nbsp;

Outlining the long-standing relation between both the countries, he said, ”India and Nepal have equitable partnership and share mutual respect. India would like to work with Nepal on three levels: government to government, people to people and cultural relations”

Attacking the Indian opposition party, Chauthaiwale said, “Prime Minister Modi was the first Prime Minister to visit Nepal in a gap of two decades. Nepal was not given due attention during United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime even when Nepal was going through critical times. For, PM Modi, Nepal is a top priority and required steps will be taken to further strengthen the relation.”

"I simply wish that anti-India rhetoric by Nepal politicians do not hurt the relationship between two countries. India would like to continue partnering with Nepal by contributing on major projects,” he said while concluding his address.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, five former prime ministers of Nepal from different parties cautioned against alleged external influence of India in internal matters of Nepal.

Opposition parties have been consistently saying that India is backing PM KP Sharma Oli since he dissolved the House of Representatives on December 20 last year.&nbsp;

However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs called it an internal matter, adding that it should be dealt by Nepal under its own domestic framework and democratic processes. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) foreign affairs department in-charge Vijay Chauthaliwale said on Sunday that India views Nepal as a sovereign nation and Nepal will not find a better friend than PM Modi.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) foreign affairs department in-charge Vijay Chauthaliwale said on Sunday that India views Nepal as a sovereign nation and Nepal will not find a better friend than PM Modi. “The people of Nepal will not find better friend and well-wisher than PM Modi. Despite miscommunication at some level, relations with Nepal remains strong," said Dr. Vijay Chauthaiwale at NIICE Global Conclave’s session “India-Nepal relation”. He said that India has signed several agreements and accords with the intention of a very strong partnership with Nepal. He believes the political parties and leaders in both countries need to strengthen and initiate proper dialogue. “In the recent past, the structured dialogues between both the countries have not been functional. The BJP is keen to initiate this dialogue. The exchange of dialogues with Nepali political leaders will be effective,” Chauthaiwale added. Outlining the long-standing relation between both the countries, he said, ”India and Nepal have equitable partnership and share mutual respect. India would like to work with Nepal on three levels: government to government, people to people and cultural relations” Attacking the Indian opposition party, Chauthaiwale said, “Prime Minister Modi was the first Prime Minister to visit Nepal in a gap of two decades. Nepal was not given due attention during United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime even when Nepal was going through critical times. For, PM Modi, Nepal is a top priority and required steps will be taken to further strengthen the relation.” "I simply wish that anti-India rhetoric by Nepal politicians do not hurt the relationship between two countries. India would like to continue partnering with Nepal by contributing on major projects,” he said while concluding his address. Earlier this month, five former prime ministers of Nepal from different parties cautioned against alleged external influence of India in internal matters of Nepal. Opposition parties have been consistently saying that India is backing PM KP Sharma Oli since he dissolved the House of Representatives on December 20 last year. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs called it an internal matter, adding that it should be dealt by Nepal under its own domestic framework and democratic processes.

No better friend than PM Modi for Nepal, says BJP's Chauthaiwale

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK&nbsp;Stalin. 
 
In a series of tweets, Modi thanked the voters for supporting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). 
 
"Congratulations to Mamata Didi for Trinamool Congress`s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal government to fulfil people`s aspirations and to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic," Modi tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Congratulations to Mamata Didi for <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AITCofficial</a>'s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal Government to fulfil people’s aspirations and also to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388855746448695299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet, the Prime Minister said, "I would like to thank my sisters and brothers of West Bengal who have blessed our party. From a negligible presence earlier, BJP`s presence has significantly increased. BJP will keep serving the people. I applaud each and every Karyakarta (party worker) for their spirited effort in the polls."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-ec-asks-chief-secretaries-of-statesuts-to-prohibit-victory-celebrations-382330">COVID-19: EC asks Chief Secretaries of states/UTs to prohibit victory celebrations</a>

Congratulating Pinarayi Vijayan, Modi tweeted,"I would like to congratulate Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the Covid-19 global pandemic."

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I would like to congratulate Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayanpinarayi</a> and the LDF for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the COVID-19 global pandemic.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388856468040945670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thanking the people of Kerala, Modi said, "Gratitude to the people of Kerala who supported our party during these elections. I appreciate the efforts of our industrious party karyakartas, who will continue serving the people of the state and strengthen the party at the grassroots level." 
 
Congratulating Stalin for the DMK`s victory in Tamil Nadu, Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to M K Stalin and the DMK for the victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. We will work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Congratulations to Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mkstalin</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/arivalayam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arivalayam</a> for the victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. We shall work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388856729434132482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thanking the people of Tamil Nadu, Modi said, "I would like to thank the people of Tamil Nadu who supported the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). I assure the people of Tamil Nadu that we will keep working towards the state`s welfare and to further popularise the glorious Tamil culture. I applaud our karyakartas for their hard work."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK Stalin.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK Stalin. In a series of tweets, Modi thanked the voters for supporting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "Congratulations to Mamata Didi for Trinamool Congress`s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal government to fulfil people`s aspirations and to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic," Modi tweeted. Congratulations to Mamata Didi for @AITCofficial's win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal Government to fulfil people’s aspirations and also to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. @MamataOfficial — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × In another tweet, the Prime Minister said, "I would like to thank my sisters and brothers of West Bengal who have blessed our party. From a negligible presence earlier, BJP`s presence has significantly increased. BJP will keep serving the people. I applaud each and every Karyakarta (party worker) for their spirited effort in the polls." Also read | COVID-19: EC asks Chief Secretaries of states/UTs to prohibit victory celebrations Congratulating Pinarayi Vijayan, Modi tweeted,"I would like to congratulate Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the Covid-19 global pandemic." I would like to congratulate Shri @vijayanpinarayi and the LDF for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the COVID-19 global pandemic. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × Thanking the people of Kerala, Modi said, "Gratitude to the people of Kerala who supported our party during these elections. I appreciate the efforts of our industrious party karyakartas, who will continue serving the people of the state and strengthen the party at the grassroots level." Congratulating Stalin for the DMK`s victory in Tamil Nadu, Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to M K Stalin and the DMK for the victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. We will work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic." Congratulations to Thiru @mkstalin and @arivalayam for the victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. We shall work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × Thanking the people of Tamil Nadu, Modi said, "I would like to thank the people of Tamil Nadu who supported the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). I assure the people of Tamil Nadu that we will keep working towards the state`s welfare and to further popularise the glorious Tamil culture. I applaud our karyakartas for their hard work."

PM Modi congratulates Mamata, Vijayan, Stalin; extends Centre's support

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP".

"I am quitting this space," he told India Today TV channel after trends showed a landslide victory for the TMC, the party whose election strategy he helped craft for the assembly elections.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-assembly-election-result-strict-covid-19-precautions-followed-at-counting-centre-382201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I have never seen a more partial Election Commission, it did everything to help BJP....From allowing use of religion to scheduling poll and bending rules, EC did everything to help the BJP," he said, calling the poll panel an "extension" of the saffron party.

Talking to NDTV, Kishor stuck to his stand that the BJP was a formidable force in West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-bjp-shares-audio-chat-of-prashant-kishor-praising-pm-modi-376620">West Bengal: BJP shares audio chat of Prashant Kishor praising PM Modi</a>

He said he was confident about the TMC's victory despite the BJP's attempt to "build a massive propaganda" that it was winning.

"The result may look like one-sided but it was a tough fight. BJP is a formidable force and will be," he said.

"..., in reality BJP will struggle to cross double digits in #WestBengal," he had tweeted as early as December last year and his words proved prophetic.

"If BJP does any better, I must quit this space!", he had said.

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP".

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP". "I am quitting this space," he told India Today TV channel after trends showed a landslide victory for the TMC, the party whose election strategy he helped craft for the assembly elections. "I have never seen a more partial Election Commission, it did everything to help BJP....From allowing use of religion to scheduling poll and bending rules, EC did everything to help the BJP," he said, calling the poll panel an "extension" of the saffron party. Talking to NDTV, Kishor stuck to his stand that the BJP was a formidable force in West Bengal. Also read | West Bengal: BJP shares audio chat of Prashant Kishor praising PM Modi He said he was confident about the TMC's victory despite the BJP's attempt to "build a massive propaganda" that it was winning. "The result may look like one-sided but it was a tough fight. BJP is a formidable force and will be," he said. "..., in reality BJP will struggle to cross double digits in #WestBengal," he had tweeted as early as December last year and his words proved prophetic. "If BJP does any better, I must quit this space!", he had said.

'Quitting this space', declares Kishor, calls EC 'extension of BJP'

Elated over the initial trends&nbsp;of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state.&nbsp;

The ruling BJP-led NDA is surging ahead of the Grand Alliance spearheaded by the Congress in Assam, leading in 77 of the 119 seats, trends available on the Election Commission website at 12.15 pm showed.&nbsp;

"People have blessed us. We can say for sure that the BJP will form government in Assam. We are coming back to power with our partners AGP and UPPL," Sonowal told reporters.&nbsp;

Asked if the ruling coalition will be able to bag 100 seats, as claimed by the saffron camp ahead of the polls, he said, "The trends are completely in&nbsp;favour&nbsp;of the BJP. The party will achieve its target. However, we will have to wait for the final results."&nbsp;

Sonowal is maintaining a comfortable lead in&nbsp;Majuli&nbsp;constituency.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Elated over the initial trends of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state.

Elated over the initial trends of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state. The ruling BJP-led NDA is surging ahead of the Grand Alliance spearheaded by the Congress in Assam, leading in 77 of the 119 seats, trends available on the Election Commission website at 12.15 pm showed. "People have blessed us. We can say for sure that the BJP will form government in Assam. We are coming back to power with our partners AGP and UPPL," Sonowal told reporters. Asked if the ruling coalition will be able to bag 100 seats, as claimed by the saffron camp ahead of the polls, he said, "The trends are completely in favour of the BJP. The party will achieve its target. However, we will have to wait for the final results." Sonowal is maintaining a comfortable lead in Majuli constituency. (With inputs from agencies)

People blessed us, BJP to retain power in Assam: Sonowal 

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.

Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-election-body-bans-all-victory-processions-after-poll-results-380799/amp">COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results</a>

However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats.

The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25.

The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday. Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly. Also read | COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats. The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25. The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.

Hat-trick for Mamata in Bengal, indicate all exit polls save two

Bollywood actress and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher is reportedly suffering from a type of blood cancer and undergoing treatment for the same, according to her colleagues in Bhartiya Janata Party.&nbsp; 
 
On Wednesday, the Chandigarh BJP president Arun Sood addressed a press conference and said that the 68-year-old MP was on a recovery path. She had begun treatment for the disease last year. 
 
“She had suffered a broken left arm at her Chandigarh house on November 11 last year. After her medical tests at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The disease had spread to her left arm and right shoulder. For treatment she had to go to Mumbai on December 4,” said Sood. 
 
The actress was reportedly being treated in Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital and the disease had receded from her arm and shoulder after months of treatment.&nbsp; 
 
“Even though she is recovering after her four-month treatment and no longer admitted at Kokilaben Hospital, Mumbai, she has to visit the hospital regularly for treatment," Sood added.&nbsp;

The news was confirmed by her husband, actor Anupam Kher on Twitter on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Kher was elected to the Lok Sabha in 2014 and then re-elected in 2019.&nbsp; 
 
The revelation about her illness comes after she and her party were criticised by the opposition Congress for her prolonged absence from Chandigarh during the Covid-19 outbreak. Kher was accussed of ignoring her constituency during the pandemic.&nbsp; 
 
Kher had released a video in April last year, countering the allegations.&nbsp; 
 
On Wednesday, Sood stated that the actress-turned-politician was in Chandigarh till December. "She was in the city till December last year. She is a senior citizen and diabetic. She was advised against venturing outside the house during the lockdown. Only to get treatment for the disease she had left the city. Despite her illness, Kher has been in regular touch with me discussing various city-related issues,” Sood added. 
 
A National Award-winning actress, Kirron Kher has appeared in several prominent films including 'Devdas', 'Khamosh Paani' and 'Khoobsurat' to name a few.&nbsp;

Bollywood actress and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher is reportedly suffering from a type of blood cancer and undergoing treatment for the same, according to her colleagues in Bhartiya Janata Party.

Bollywood actress and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher is reportedly suffering from a type of blood cancer and undergoing treatment for the same, according to her colleagues in Bhartiya Janata Party. On Wednesday, the Chandigarh BJP president Arun Sood addressed a press conference and said that the 68-year-old MP was on a recovery path. She had begun treatment for the disease last year. “She had suffered a broken left arm at her Chandigarh house on November 11 last year. After her medical tests at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The disease had spread to her left arm and right shoulder. For treatment she had to go to Mumbai on December 4,” said Sood. The actress was reportedly being treated in Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital and the disease had receded from her arm and shoulder after months of treatment. “Even though she is recovering after her four-month treatment and no longer admitted at Kokilaben Hospital, Mumbai, she has to visit the hospital regularly for treatment," Sood added. The news was confirmed by her husband, actor Anupam Kher on Twitter on Thursday. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/3C0dcWwch4 — Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) April 1, 2021 × Kher was elected to the Lok Sabha in 2014 and then re-elected in 2019. The revelation about her illness comes after she and her party were criticised by the opposition Congress for her prolonged absence from Chandigarh during the Covid-19 outbreak. Kher was accussed of ignoring her constituency during the pandemic. Kher had released a video in April last year, countering the allegations. On Wednesday, Sood stated that the actress-turned-politician was in Chandigarh till December. "She was in the city till December last year. She is a senior citizen and diabetic. She was advised against venturing outside the house during the lockdown. Only to get treatment for the disease she had left the city. Despite her illness, Kher has been in regular touch with me discussing various city-related issues,” Sood added. A National Award-winning actress, Kirron Kher has appeared in several prominent films including 'Devdas', 'Khamosh Paani' and 'Khoobsurat' to name a few.

Actress-MP Kirron Kher suffering from blood cancer, says BJP

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan.&nbsp;

The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies.

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Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community.&nbsp;

The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena.&nbsp;

Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS.&nbsp;

Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message.&nbsp;

In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression.&nbsp;

Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course.&nbsp;

Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it.&nbsp;

“Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement.&nbsp;

However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement.&nbsp;

BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.&nbsp;

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6.

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan. The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies. Also read | Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccine Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community. The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena. Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS. Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message. In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression. Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course. Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it. “Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement. However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement. BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.

Sasikala quits politics; nephew TTV expresses shock, BJP welcomes move

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors.

Insisting that the Centre has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity, he said farmers across the country were innovating and that it was the duty of his government to ensure their produce got a good market.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-plans-to-privatise-psus-in-all-sectors-barring-4-strategic-ones-pm-modi-365966">Centre plans to privatise PSUs in all sectors barring 4 strategic ones: PM Modi</a>

"Good roads do exactly that," he said while laying the foundation stone for the four-laning of NH 45 A Sattanathapuram-Nagappattinam stretch covering Karaikal district. 
The four-laning activity will certainly lead to better connectivity while economic activity will pick up pace, he said.

At the same time it will improve access to the holy Shaneeswaran temple at Tirunallar and provide easy interstate connectivity to The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and the Nagore Dargah, both located in nearby Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, he noted.

"The four laning will also draw industry and ensure job opportunities for local youth," Modi said, while assuring all possible help for the development of this union territory.

"The government of India has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity. The agriculture sector will gain from this (four laning). Across India our farmers are innovating. It is our duty to ensure their produce get good market," he added.

The Prime Minister inaugurated a Blood Centre at state-run JIPMER, a Sports Authority of India (SAI) girls hostel at Lawspet and a reconstructed Heritage Mairie Building. The heritage building will add to the beauty of the beach promenade.

He laid the foundation stone for the Medical College Building at Karaikal New Campus of JIPMER-Phase I and the development of Minor Port at Puducherry under Sagarmala scheme.

Modi also laid the foundation stone of Synthetic Athletic Track at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in the Union Territory.

The starting of various development works will improve people's life in Puducherry and the works cover diverse sectors, he said.

Observing that prosperity was closely linked to good health, Modi stated that India in the last seven years has made many efforts to improve fitness and wellness.

The SAI hostel is "one more attempt to improve" sporting facilities in India, he said, adding, the 100-bed building will accommodate sportswoman from volleyball, hockey, weightlifting and kabaddi among others.

On healthcare, he said it was one sector that would play a key role in the coming years and noted that "nations that invest in health care will shine."

The inauguration of the Blood Centre in JIPMER at Rs 28 crore was "in line with our objective to provide quality healthcare to all," he said.

Yet again quoting from the Tamil treatise Tirukkural, penned by saint-poet Tiruvalluvar, he said "learning and education are the true wealth while all other things are not stable."

Stressing the need for quality health professionals to promote healthcare, he said, "Phase I of medical college building at (JIPMER) Karaikal new campus is a step in that direction. This new environment-friendly complex will have all modern teaching facilities required."

On the minor ports initiative, the PM said once completed it will help our fishermen. It will provide much-required sea connectivity to Chennai...Will facilitate the cargo movement for Puducherry and ease load of Chennai port. It will open up possibilities of passenger traffic among coastal cities."

Modi said Puducherry has got rich human resources due to various educational institutions, both in government and private sectors.

It has a tourism and industrial potential that will provide a lot of employment opportunities, he added.

Praising the people of Puducherry, Modi called them 'talented.'

"The land is beautiful. I am here to personally assure all possible support from my government for the development of the UT," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors. Insisting that the Centre has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity, he said farmers across the country were innovating and that it was the duty of his government to ensure their produce got a good market. Also read | Centre plans to privatise PSUs in all sectors barring 4 strategic ones: PM Modi "Good roads do exactly that," he said while laying the foundation stone for the four-laning of NH 45 A Sattanathapuram-Nagappattinam stretch covering Karaikal district. The four-laning activity will certainly lead to better connectivity while economic activity will pick up pace, he said. At the same time it will improve access to the holy Shaneeswaran temple at Tirunallar and provide easy interstate connectivity to The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and the Nagore Dargah, both located in nearby Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, he noted. "The four laning will also draw industry and ensure job opportunities for local youth," Modi said, while assuring all possible help for the development of this union territory. "The government of India has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity. The agriculture sector will gain from this (four laning). Across India our farmers are innovating. It is our duty to ensure their produce get good market," he added. The Prime Minister inaugurated a Blood Centre at state-run JIPMER, a Sports Authority of India (SAI) girls hostel at Lawspet and a reconstructed Heritage Mairie Building. The heritage building will add to the beauty of the beach promenade. He laid the foundation stone for the Medical College Building at Karaikal New Campus of JIPMER-Phase I and the development of Minor Port at Puducherry under Sagarmala scheme. Modi also laid the foundation stone of Synthetic Athletic Track at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in the Union Territory. The starting of various development works will improve people's life in Puducherry and the works cover diverse sectors, he said. Observing that prosperity was closely linked to good health, Modi stated that India in the last seven years has made many efforts to improve fitness and wellness. The SAI hostel is "one more attempt to improve" sporting facilities in India, he said, adding, the 100-bed building will accommodate sportswoman from volleyball, hockey, weightlifting and kabaddi among others. On healthcare, he said it was one sector that would play a key role in the coming years and noted that "nations that invest in health care will shine." The inauguration of the Blood Centre in JIPMER at Rs 28 crore was "in line with our objective to provide quality healthcare to all," he said. Yet again quoting from the Tamil treatise Tirukkural, penned by saint-poet Tiruvalluvar, he said "learning and education are the true wealth while all other things are not stable." Stressing the need for quality health professionals to promote healthcare, he said, "Phase I of medical college building at (JIPMER) Karaikal new campus is a step in that direction. This new environment-friendly complex will have all modern teaching facilities required." On the minor ports initiative, the PM said once completed it will help our fishermen. It will provide much-required sea connectivity to Chennai...Will facilitate the cargo movement for Puducherry and ease load of Chennai port. It will open up possibilities of passenger traffic among coastal cities." Modi said Puducherry has got rich human resources due to various educational institutions, both in government and private sectors. It has a tourism and industrial potential that will provide a lot of employment opportunities, he added. Praising the people of Puducherry, Modi called them 'talented.' "The land is beautiful. I am here to personally assure all possible support from my government for the development of the UT," he added.

PM launches various projects in Puducherry; assures Centre's support for UT's development 

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership.

Known as 'Metroman' as well as for the efficiency in completing big infrastructure projects, Sreedharan said that It has become a fashion to oppose whatever the Modi government is doing.

He strongly supported the new farm laws and asserted that there is no “intolerance” in the country.

He also said any attempt to malign the government before a foreign dispensation or medium can’t be called “freedom of expression” as that would tantamount to “war against the establishment” and this constitutional right has to be controlled if it is misused against our own country.

He also said there is no intolerance in the country. “Where is intolerance? It is all just talk. We have got a very strong judiciary and intolerance cannot function, it is just talking. If their view is not accepted by govt, they say it is intolerance. There is absolutely no intolerance according to me?”

Hailing from Kerala, the 88-year-old technocrat said that he wants to do things for the benefit of the state and those can be done by entering politics. He said his main aim is to help the BJP come to power in Kerala where the assembly polls are due in April-May this year. Sreedharan said that he has known Prime Minister Narendra Modi for several years. When Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he had worked on various projects in the state.

“I know him (Modi) from very close quarters. He is very upright, corruption-free, committed, very passionate about the country’s interests, very hardworking and very forward-looking,” he added.

In an interview to PTI, he said the debate on nationalism that is happening is unfortunate and that there are “so many petty parties” that are all against the BJP and a combined attack is going on against it for no reason.

“That is why all these things are happening. The government is so forward-looking and dynamic…if they join (support) the (central) government, things will be so different for India and the world. Unfortunately, some of our friends in opposite parties are working against the interests of the country,” he said.

On the ongoing farmer protests against the Centre’s new farm laws, Sreedharan opined that farmers might not have really understood the benefits of these legislations.

When asked whether the protests could be seen as a kind of situation where it is about industry versus farmers, he replied in the negative and said, “It has nothing to do with the industry unless we are dragging industry into it.”

“It is that either farmers have not understood or they don’t want to understand for political reasons. It has become a fashion in this country that whatever the (central) government does, oppose it…. Anything that the government wants to do, there is an opposition, unfortunately,” said Sreedharan, who is better known as the ‘Metroman’ and has been instrumental in developing the Delhi Metro Rail project apart from various other infrastructure projects.

Ruling out the possibility of him acting as a mediator between the central government and the protesting farmers, Sreedharan said the issues have to be sorted out by the government.

“They have to educate the farmers and tell them that it is in their own interest. If this is not done, what is going to happen to them? They (protesting farmers) don’t realise what will happen five years down the line,” he noted.

To a query on whether he is optimistic about a constructive solution to the ongoing protests which have been going on for a few months now, he said the protests are not being dragged on by farmers really but “dragged on by elements opposed to the central government”.

When asked about his views on the debate on freedom of expression, Sreedharan said it is a right in the Constitution but if the freedom of expression is misused against the country, then certainly that has to be controlled.

“If you go to a foreign government or medium and complain about all sorts of things about the government and convince them that the government is wrong, then that is a wrong thing. This is not freedom of expression. This is sort of a war against the establishment, the government. This is how Hitler also started…giving false opinion that this is freedom of expression and misled people,” he said.

(With inputs from PTI)

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership.

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan E Sreedharan on Friday said his main aim of joining Bharatiya Janata Party is to help the party come to power in Kerala and that he will be open to chief ministership. Known as 'Metroman' as well as for the efficiency in completing big infrastructure projects, Sreedharan said that It has become a fashion to oppose whatever the Modi government is doing. He strongly supported the new farm laws and asserted that there is no “intolerance” in the country. He also said any attempt to malign the government before a foreign dispensation or medium can’t be called “freedom of expression” as that would tantamount to “war against the establishment” and this constitutional right has to be controlled if it is misused against our own country. He also said there is no intolerance in the country. “Where is intolerance? It is all just talk. We have got a very strong judiciary and intolerance cannot function, it is just talking. If their view is not accepted by govt, they say it is intolerance. There is absolutely no intolerance according to me?” Hailing from Kerala, the 88-year-old technocrat said that he wants to do things for the benefit of the state and those can be done by entering politics. He said his main aim is to help the BJP come to power in Kerala where the assembly polls are due in April-May this year. Sreedharan said that he has known Prime Minister Narendra Modi for several years. When Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he had worked on various projects in the state. “I know him (Modi) from very close quarters. He is very upright, corruption-free, committed, very passionate about the country’s interests, very hardworking and very forward-looking,” he added. In an interview to PTI, he said the debate on nationalism that is happening is unfortunate and that there are “so many petty parties” that are all against the BJP and a combined attack is going on against it for no reason. “That is why all these things are happening. The government is so forward-looking and dynamic…if they join (support) the (central) government, things will be so different for India and the world. Unfortunately, some of our friends in opposite parties are working against the interests of the country,” he said. On the ongoing farmer protests against the Centre’s new farm laws, Sreedharan opined that farmers might not have really understood the benefits of these legislations. When asked whether the protests could be seen as a kind of situation where it is about industry versus farmers, he replied in the negative and said, “It has nothing to do with the industry unless we are dragging industry into it.” “It is that either farmers have not understood or they don’t want to understand for political reasons. It has become a fashion in this country that whatever the (central) government does, oppose it…. Anything that the government wants to do, there is an opposition, unfortunately,” said Sreedharan, who is better known as the ‘Metroman’ and has been instrumental in developing the Delhi Metro Rail project apart from various other infrastructure projects. Ruling out the possibility of him acting as a mediator between the central government and the protesting farmers, Sreedharan said the issues have to be sorted out by the government. “They have to educate the farmers and tell them that it is in their own interest. If this is not done, what is going to happen to them? They (protesting farmers) don’t realise what will happen five years down the line,” he noted. To a query on whether he is optimistic about a constructive solution to the ongoing protests which have been going on for a few months now, he said the protests are not being dragged on by farmers really but “dragged on by elements opposed to the central government”. When asked about his views on the debate on freedom of expression, Sreedharan said it is a right in the Constitution but if the freedom of expression is misused against the country, then certainly that has to be controlled. “If you go to a foreign government or medium and complain about all sorts of things about the government and convince them that the government is wrong, then that is a wrong thing. This is not freedom of expression. This is sort of a war against the establishment, the government. This is how Hitler also started…giving false opinion that this is freedom of expression and misled people,” he said. (With inputs from PTI)

There is no intolerance in the country; fashionable to oppose whatever Modi govt does: E Sreedharan

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan is going to join the BJP soon, just weeks ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections.

BJP Kerala state president K Surendran said Sreedharan, who is credited with changing the face of the public transport system in the country, will join the BJP during the party 'Vijay Yatra' commencing on February 21 from Kasaragod.

He has expressed his willingness to work with the BJP, Surendran told reporters here. There was no immediate reaction from Sreedharan.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan is going to join the BJP soon, just weeks ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections. BJP Kerala state president K Surendran said Sreedharan, who is credited with changing the face of the public transport system in the country, will join the BJP during the party 'Vijay Yatra' commencing on February 21 from Kasaragod.

India's Metroman’ Elattuvalapil Sreedharan is going to join the BJP soon, just weeks ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections. BJP Kerala state president K Surendran said Sreedharan, who is credited with changing the face of the public transport system in the country, will join the BJP during the party 'Vijay Yatra' commencing on February 21 from Kasaragod. He has expressed his willingness to work with the BJP, Surendran told reporters here. There was no immediate reaction from Sreedharan. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Metroman E Sreedharan to join BJP says party's Kerala unit chief

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.

This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state.

"By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference.

BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies.

"Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said.

BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system.

"The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday. This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state. "By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference. BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies. "Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said. BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system. "The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.

BJP lodges complaint against Kerala CM for announcing free Covid-19 vaccine amid local polls

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.

"Mukul Roy and Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured in the attack today. It is a shame on democracy," Nadda said.

"There isn`t a car in our convoy which was not attacked. I am safe because I was travelling in a bulletproof car. This state of lawlessness and intolerance in West Bengal has to end," Nadda said while speaking at a public meeting at South 24 Paraganas in WestBengal.

BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was on his way to South 24 Paraganas and alleged that Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers pelted stones at his vehicle at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.The incident took place while he was on his way to South 24 Paraganas.&nbsp;

Protestors also attempted to block the road from where BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was passing.

"Bengal Police has already got the information about BJP National President JP Nadda ji program. But once again the Bengal police failed. In front of the police near Siracol bus stand, TMC goons hit our workers and pelted stones at my car," Vijayvargiya tweeted.

BJP leader Sambit Patra also alleged that he along with some other leaders were attacked while they were travelling in a car.

"Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes were broken. Shri Shivprakash ji, Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji and myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!! Mamata Banerjee, is this democracy??" Patra tweeted.

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Our cars attacked in Bengal!! 
Window panes broken 
Shri Shivprakash ji,Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji &amp; myself were travelling in this car. 
One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! 
God save our lives!!<a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> is this democracy?? <a href="https://t.co/Jt71XyDZzc">pic.twitter.com/Jt71XyDZzc</a>
— Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/sambitswaraj/status/1336933865877889024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he is concerned at alarming reports of anarchy and lawlessness.

"Mamata Banerjee indicating ruling party harmads on rampage at BJP president convoy &amp; political police WB Police in support...I share my shame with you as it`s on account of your acts of omission &amp; commission," Governor tweeted.

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour. "Mukul Roy and Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured in the attack today. It is a shame on democracy," Nadda said. "There isn`t a car in our convoy which was not attacked. I am safe because I was travelling in a bulletproof car. This state of lawlessness and intolerance in West Bengal has to end," Nadda said while speaking at a public meeting at South 24 Paraganas in WestBengal. BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was on his way to South 24 Paraganas and alleged that Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers pelted stones at his vehicle at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.The incident took place while he was on his way to South 24 Paraganas. Protestors also attempted to block the road from where BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was passing. "Bengal Police has already got the information about BJP National President JP Nadda ji program. But once again the Bengal police failed. In front of the police near Siracol bus stand, TMC goons hit our workers and pelted stones at my car," Vijayvargiya tweeted. BJP leader Sambit Patra also alleged that he along with some other leaders were attacked while they were travelling in a car. "Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes were broken. Shri Shivprakash ji, Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji and myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!! Mamata Banerjee, is this democracy??" Patra tweeted. Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes broken Shri Shivprakash ji,Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji & myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!!@MamataOfficial is this democracy?? pic.twitter.com/Jt71XyDZzc — Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) December 10, 2020 × West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he is concerned at alarming reports of anarchy and lawlessness. "Mamata Banerjee indicating ruling party harmads on rampage at BJP president convoy & political police WB Police in support...I share my shame with you as it`s on account of your acts of omission & commission," Governor tweeted.

BJP chief JP Nadda's convoy attacked in West Bengal

The BJP on Saturday slammed Canada's stand on farmers' protests in India as "nothing but hypocrisy", saying it is a strident critic of minimum support price and other agricultural policies at the WTO, and often questions India's domestic agricultural measures, including food and livelihood security.

"It (Canada) also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India's agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers," BJP's foreign affairs department in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale tweeted.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji has given topmost priority to enhance farmers' income by increasing MSP, giving better access to technology and providing adequate insurance cover for agri products against natural calamities. Unfortunately, Canada has refused to acknowledge it.
— Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijai63/status/1335067588880044034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India’s agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers.
— Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijai63/status/1335067586485047296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India’s agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers.
— Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijai63/status/1335067586485047296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had recently backed the agitating farmers in India, saying his country will always be there to defend the rights of peaceful protests. He had expressed concern over the situation.

Reacting strongly, India on Friday summoned Canadian High Commissioner Nadir Patel and told him that the comments made by Trudeau and others in his cabinet on the protests were an "unacceptable interference" in the country's internal affairs and these actions, if continued, will have a "seriously damaging" impact on bilateral ties.

In a series of tweets tagging Trudeau and Patel, Chauthaiwale said, "Canada's criticism of India on farmer's issues is nothing but hypocrisy. Canada is strident critic of MSP and other agriculture policies at the WTO, and often questions India's domestic agriculture measures including food and livelihood security."

Noting that Canada is a member of the Cairns Group of agri exporters, he said the body's objective in WTO negotiations is to seek increased market access in countries like India.

It also seeks reduction in the agri subsidies provided to domestic producers, even if such subsidies are subsistence-level, he said.

"It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India's agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers," the BJP leader said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given topmost priority to enhance farmers' income by increasing minimum support price, giving better access to technology and providing adequate insurance cover for agri products against natural calamities, he said, adding that "Unfortunately, Canada has refused to acknowledge it".&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The BJP on Saturday slammed Canada's stand on farmers' protests in India as "nothing but hypocrisy", saying it is a strident critic of minimum support price and other agricultural policies at the WTO, and often questions India's domestic agricultural measures, including food and livelihood security.

The BJP on Saturday slammed Canada's stand on farmers' protests in India as "nothing but hypocrisy", saying it is a strident critic of minimum support price and other agricultural policies at the WTO, and often questions India's domestic agricultural measures, including food and livelihood security. "It (Canada) also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India's agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers," BJP's foreign affairs department in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale tweeted. PM @narendramodi ji has given topmost priority to enhance farmers' income by increasing MSP, giving better access to technology and providing adequate insurance cover for agri products against natural calamities. Unfortunately, Canada has refused to acknowledge it. — Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) December 5, 2020 × It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India’s agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers. — Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) December 5, 2020 × It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India’s agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers. — Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale (@vijai63) December 5, 2020 × Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had recently backed the agitating farmers in India, saying his country will always be there to defend the rights of peaceful protests. He had expressed concern over the situation. Reacting strongly, India on Friday summoned Canadian High Commissioner Nadir Patel and told him that the comments made by Trudeau and others in his cabinet on the protests were an "unacceptable interference" in the country's internal affairs and these actions, if continued, will have a "seriously damaging" impact on bilateral ties. In a series of tweets tagging Trudeau and Patel, Chauthaiwale said, "Canada's criticism of India on farmer's issues is nothing but hypocrisy. Canada is strident critic of MSP and other agriculture policies at the WTO, and often questions India's domestic agriculture measures including food and livelihood security." Noting that Canada is a member of the Cairns Group of agri exporters, he said the body's objective in WTO negotiations is to seek increased market access in countries like India. It also seeks reduction in the agri subsidies provided to domestic producers, even if such subsidies are subsistence-level, he said. "It also opposes import restrictions to protect India's farmers. The questions posed by Canada to India regarding India's agri policies in WTO are evidence of the fact that Canada has scarce interest in the genuine well-being of Indian farmers and agriculture producers," the BJP leader said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given topmost priority to enhance farmers' income by increasing minimum support price, giving better access to technology and providing adequate insurance cover for agri products against natural calamities, he said, adding that "Unfortunately, Canada has refused to acknowledge it".

Canada opposes MSP, has scarce interest in well-being of Indian farmers: BJP

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday sprang a surprise here when he virtually broke protocol to get out of his vehicle and walk on the busy GST Road outside the airport to greet supporters, minutes after he landed here for a two-day visit of the city.

Shah, who thanked the metropolis for its love, said it was "great" to be in Tamil Nadu.

Shah is slated to attend a Tamil Nadu government event later in the day, where he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 67,000 crore, including phase II of Chennai Metro Rail.

Soon after his arrival from Delhi, Shah was received by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam, senior cabinet members and BJP State President L Murugan among others, before proceeding to the city hotel where he will be put up.

However, after exiting the airport, Shah's car suddenly stopped and the BJP veteran got out, before walking a short distance, waving at scores of BJP and AIADMK workers who had gathered to receive him with their respective party flags.

Accompanied by BJP National General Secretary and party in-charge of poll-bound Tamil Nadu, CT Ravi, and Murugan, with his security detail in tow, the Home Minister warmly waved at the overjoyed supporters who had thronged the airport since the morning.

A heavy security cover has been provided in the city following Shah's visit, during which he will meet state BJP functionaries and possibly discuss Tamil Nadu elections, due next April-May, before leaving on Sunday morning. 
Meanwhile, Shah took to Twitter to thank the city for its love and support.

"It is always great to be in Tamil Nadu. Thank you Chennai for this love and support," he said in a tweet accompanying a video clip of his walk on GST Road.

Shad had earlier been here in August 2019 to release a book on Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu's two years in office then.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday sprang a surprise here when he virtually broke protocol to get out of his vehicle and walk on the busy GST Road outside the airport to greet supporters, minutes after he landed here for a two-day visit of the city.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday sprang a surprise here when he virtually broke protocol to get out of his vehicle and walk on the busy GST Road outside the airport to greet supporters, minutes after he landed here for a two-day visit of the city. Shah, who thanked the metropolis for its love, said it was "great" to be in Tamil Nadu. Shah is slated to attend a Tamil Nadu government event later in the day, where he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 67,000 crore, including phase II of Chennai Metro Rail. Soon after his arrival from Delhi, Shah was received by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam, senior cabinet members and BJP State President L Murugan among others, before proceeding to the city hotel where he will be put up. However, after exiting the airport, Shah's car suddenly stopped and the BJP veteran got out, before walking a short distance, waving at scores of BJP and AIADMK workers who had gathered to receive him with their respective party flags. Accompanied by BJP National General Secretary and party in-charge of poll-bound Tamil Nadu, CT Ravi, and Murugan, with his security detail in tow, the Home Minister warmly waved at the overjoyed supporters who had thronged the airport since the morning. A heavy security cover has been provided in the city following Shah's visit, during which he will meet state BJP functionaries and possibly discuss Tamil Nadu elections, due next April-May, before leaving on Sunday morning. Meanwhile, Shah took to Twitter to thank the city for its love and support. "It is always great to be in Tamil Nadu. Thank you Chennai for this love and support," he said in a tweet accompanying a video clip of his walk on GST Road. Shad had earlier been here in August 2019 to release a book on Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu's two years in office then.

Amit Shah springs a surprise, walks on Chennai road to greet supporters 

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan".

He said that the Union territory has been moving forward on the path of inclusive development by demolishing the "web of dynasty".

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi led-government has ended the 'corruption of clan' from the corridors of power of Delhi and now it will make Jammu and Kashmir free from 'corruption of clan'," Naqvi, who is the union minister for minority affairs, said at an election meeting in Balahama area of the city here.

He said that secularism is not a "definition of vote politics" for the BJP.

"It is determination for inclusive development. The Modi era is an era of 'Iqbal' (authority), 'Insaaf' (justice) and 'Imaan' (integrity) where inclusive development, security and prosperity of the country are of the utmost priority," he said.

"After several decades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have become an equal partner in transparent democratic and development processes," he claimed.

Naqvi alleged that the "dynastic politics" had deliberately deprived the people of Jammu and Kashmir of mainstream development process and their constitutional rights.

"Now, the BJP is committed to take the Union Territory forward on the path of prosperity," he added.

Naqvi reiterated his party's allegation that the "Gupkar Alliance" is a conspiracy against the country.

"The alliance is trying to create confusion among the people of Jammu and Kashmir but they will not succeed in their attempt. The people will never accept any such alliance which wants to throw Kashmir back into the quagmire of separatism and terrorism," he said.

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan".

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan". He said that the Union territory has been moving forward on the path of inclusive development by demolishing the "web of dynasty". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi led-government has ended the 'corruption of clan' from the corridors of power of Delhi and now it will make Jammu and Kashmir free from 'corruption of clan'," Naqvi, who is the union minister for minority affairs, said at an election meeting in Balahama area of the city here. He said that secularism is not a "definition of vote politics" for the BJP. "It is determination for inclusive development. The Modi era is an era of 'Iqbal' (authority), 'Insaaf' (justice) and 'Imaan' (integrity) where inclusive development, security and prosperity of the country are of the utmost priority," he said. "After several decades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have become an equal partner in transparent democratic and development processes," he claimed. Naqvi alleged that the "dynastic politics" had deliberately deprived the people of Jammu and Kashmir of mainstream development process and their constitutional rights. "Now, the BJP is committed to take the Union Territory forward on the path of prosperity," he added. Naqvi reiterated his party's allegation that the "Gupkar Alliance" is a conspiracy against the country. "The alliance is trying to create confusion among the people of Jammu and Kashmir but they will not succeed in their attempt. The people will never accept any such alliance which wants to throw Kashmir back into the quagmire of separatism and terrorism," he said.

Modi-led govt will rid Jammu and Kashmir of 'corruption of clan': Naqvi

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades.

At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nitish-kumar-to-be-bihar-chief-minister-for-4th-term-in-a-row-343271">Nitish Kumar to be Bihar Chief Minister for 4th term in a row</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kumar, who heads the JD(U), was administered the oath of office at Raj Bhavan in Patna by Governor Phagu Chauhan.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-tejashwi-yadav-leader-of-single-largest-party-rjd-demands-recount-342683">Bihar Elections: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount</a>

BJP's Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi, who will most likely become deputy chief ministers of the state, also took the oath.&nbsp;

In the tightly-fought election of the eastern Indian state, NDA won 125 seats in the 243-member house. However, Kumar's JD(U) was able to manage just 43 seats, but its ally BJP managed to win a lion's share, 74 seats.&nbsp;

The main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) boycotted the event, saying the election was rigged and the mandate was against the NDA.&nbsp;

"The RJD boycotts swearing-in ceremony. The mandate for change is against the NDA. The mandate has been changed on the state's directions. Ask the unemployed, farmers, contract workers and employed teachers of Bihar what is going on with them. The public is agitated by the fraud of the NDA," RJD wrote in a tweet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades. At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present.

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades. At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present. Also read | Nitish Kumar to be Bihar Chief Minister for 4th term in a row Kumar, who heads the JD(U), was administered the oath of office at Raj Bhavan in Patna by Governor Phagu Chauhan. Also read | Bihar Elections: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount BJP's Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi, who will most likely become deputy chief ministers of the state, also took the oath. In the tightly-fought election of the eastern Indian state, NDA won 125 seats in the 243-member house. However, Kumar's JD(U) was able to manage just 43 seats, but its ally BJP managed to win a lion's share, 74 seats. The main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) boycotted the event, saying the election was rigged and the mandate was against the NDA. "The RJD boycotts swearing-in ceremony. The mandate for change is against the NDA. The mandate has been changed on the state's directions. Ask the unemployed, farmers, contract workers and employed teachers of Bihar what is going on with them. The public is agitated by the fraud of the NDA," RJD wrote in a tweet.

Nitish Kumar sworn in as CM of Bihar for seventh time

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote."

BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election.

He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. &nbsp;&nbsp;

SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while.

The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes.

BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes.

Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes.

In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur.

BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19.

The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha.

The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;

With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. &nbsp; &nbsp;

But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions.

Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible).

Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017.

"The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections.

“The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote." BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election. He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while. The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes. BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes. Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes. In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur. BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19. The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha. The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions. Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible). Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017. "The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections. “The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls. (With inputs from agencies)

CM Yogi's midas touch: BJP retains 6 UP seats in bypolls

The Tamil Nadu Government has decided to reject permission for the month-long Vetri Vel Yatra that the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party had planned across the state, invoking Lord Murugan. The Yatra, the BJP’s first ahead of the Assembly elections in 2021 was to begin on November 6th and conclude on December 6th, covering all six abodes of Lord Murugan by traversing from Tiruttani to Tiruchendur. However, after the setback, it is understood that the party is discussing on the way ahead for the Yatra and awaiting word from their leadership in Delhi.&nbsp;

Advocate General Vijay Narayan has informed the Madras High Court that the rejection order would be served on the BJP State unit office bearers on Thursday. Among the reasons cited for the rejection were the threat of Covid-19 and the overtones related to the Yatra.&nbsp;

Referring to a Government Order dated 31st October, the Advocate General told the Court that religious, social and political gatherings would be permitted with not more than 100 people, only after November 15th.&nbsp;

Representing the BJP state unit, Advocate Raghavachari questioned the government’s decision to reject permission, by countering that the Central Government had not prohibited religious congregations due to Covid-19 and that it had only insisted that physical distancing be maintained.

Chief Justice AP Sahi and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy said that the BJP could not take such a stand without challenging the GO that prevented gatherings, which was issued by the State government on October 31st.

The advocate representing the BJP said that they would have challenged the GO, if the State had rejected their request for permission citing the Government Order. He also added that the concerned authorities hadn’t passed any orders on the same.

The Bench said that it was open to the Tamil Nadu government to pass appropriate orders on the representation seeking permission for the rally, and also added that if any of the parties are aggrieved by the order, they could challenge the order in Court.

In this context, it must be noted that the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and spiritual leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar was celebrated in a grand manner amid the pandemic and had major state leaders in attendance, barely a week ago.

In August too, allies BJP and AIADMK were on collision course over the celebrations of Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Chaturthi across the state amid the pandemic, thus leaving it for the Madras High Court to decide.&nbsp;

Back then, the Court had permitted only individuals and families to install Ganesha idols and immerse them in nearby water bodies. Immersion in large public spaces such as Marina beach was prohibited.&nbsp;

The Court also emphasized that the Tamil Nadu’s government’s ban on public celebrations, processions, installation of idols in public will be in force. The Court also clarified that no organization would be able to carry out celebration activities and processions. The bench also recorded the undertaking made by the outfit Hindu Munnani, which stated that they would not undertake any processions and would cooperate with the state authorities.&nbsp;

The state government’s decision to permit opening of liquor shops in Chennai city(from Aug 18th), while not permitting installing of Ganesha idols, taking them on processions, immersion rituals had irked the BJP state leadership. BJP leaders had questioned the Tamil Nadu government, asking them to take a cue from the neighbouring Karnataka government that has permitted the festival to be celebrated amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Tamil Nadu Government has decided to reject permission for the month-long Vetri Vel Yatra that the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party had planned across the state, invoking Lord Murugan.

The Tamil Nadu Government has decided to reject permission for the month-long Vetri Vel Yatra that the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party had planned across the state, invoking Lord Murugan. The Yatra, the BJP’s first ahead of the Assembly elections in 2021 was to begin on November 6th and conclude on December 6th, covering all six abodes of Lord Murugan by traversing from Tiruttani to Tiruchendur. However, after the setback, it is understood that the party is discussing on the way ahead for the Yatra and awaiting word from their leadership in Delhi. Advocate General Vijay Narayan has informed the Madras High Court that the rejection order would be served on the BJP State unit office bearers on Thursday. Among the reasons cited for the rejection were the threat of Covid-19 and the overtones related to the Yatra. Referring to a Government Order dated 31st October, the Advocate General told the Court that religious, social and political gatherings would be permitted with not more than 100 people, only after November 15th. Representing the BJP state unit, Advocate Raghavachari questioned the government’s decision to reject permission, by countering that the Central Government had not prohibited religious congregations due to Covid-19 and that it had only insisted that physical distancing be maintained. Chief Justice AP Sahi and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy said that the BJP could not take such a stand without challenging the GO that prevented gatherings, which was issued by the State government on October 31st. The advocate representing the BJP said that they would have challenged the GO, if the State had rejected their request for permission citing the Government Order. He also added that the concerned authorities hadn’t passed any orders on the same. The Bench said that it was open to the Tamil Nadu government to pass appropriate orders on the representation seeking permission for the rally, and also added that if any of the parties are aggrieved by the order, they could challenge the order in Court. In this context, it must be noted that the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and spiritual leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar was celebrated in a grand manner amid the pandemic and had major state leaders in attendance, barely a week ago. In August too, allies BJP and AIADMK were on collision course over the celebrations of Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Chaturthi across the state amid the pandemic, thus leaving it for the Madras High Court to decide. Back then, the Court had permitted only individuals and families to install Ganesha idols and immerse them in nearby water bodies. Immersion in large public spaces such as Marina beach was prohibited. The Court also emphasized that the Tamil Nadu’s government’s ban on public celebrations, processions, installation of idols in public will be in force. The Court also clarified that no organization would be able to carry out celebration activities and processions. The bench also recorded the undertaking made by the outfit Hindu Munnani, which stated that they would not undertake any processions and would cooperate with the state authorities. The state government’s decision to permit opening of liquor shops in Chennai city(from Aug 18th), while not permitting installing of Ganesha idols, taking them on processions, immersion rituals had irked the BJP state leadership. BJP leaders had questioned the Tamil Nadu government, asking them to take a cue from the neighbouring Karnataka government that has permitted the festival to be celebrated amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tamil Nadu government denies permission for BJP’s Vel Yatra; BJP awaits word from Delhi

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided.&nbsp;

The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2020-first-phase-voter-turnout-over-54-amid-peaceful-polling-338643">Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-election-2020-technical-snag-glitches-in-75-evms-hassle-voters-in-phase-1-polling-338531">Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus.&nbsp;

"Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar

"A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted.&nbsp;

Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others.&nbsp;

The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic.&nbsp;

The results of the election will be announced on November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms. Also read | Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7. Also read | Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus. "Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted. Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar "A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted. Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others. The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic. The results of the election will be announced on November 10.

Bihar Assembly election 2020: Voting for second phase begins

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