<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-jan-sena-candidate-madhusudan-gupta-smashes-evm-in-polling-booth-in-andhra-pradesh-209509">Jana Sena</a> Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-bjp-jana-sena-announce-coalition-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-274687">Pawan Kalyan</a> on Thursday met BJP national president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagat-prakash-nadda-seeks-opposition-support-to-run-rajya-sabha-smoothly-230009">Jagat Prakash Nadda</a> at the latter's residence here.

The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-bjp-jana-sena-announce-coalition-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-274687">Andhra Pradesh: BJP, Jana Sena announce coalition to emerge as ‘third alternative’</a>

BJP Andhra Pradesh in-charge Sunil Deodhar and Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha Rao were also present at the meeting.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bjp-plans-campaign-blitzkrieg-for-delhi-polls-shah-and-nadda-to-hold-padyatra-meetings-in-every-constituency-275873">BJP plans campaign blitzkrieg for Delhi polls; Shah and Nadda to hold padyatra, meetings in every constituency</a>

They&nbsp;have come together to defeat their common enemy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-launches-ysr-vahana-mitra-scheme-253802">YSR Congress</a>&nbsp;in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Andhra%20Pradesh:%20Farmers%20seek%20state%20BJP%20chief's%20support%20to%20oppose%20plan%20of%20three%20capitals">outside</a>&nbsp;Amaravati.

The two parties have also decided to organise a joint massive parade in Vijayawada on February 2.

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan on Thursday met BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda at the latter's residence here. The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance.

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan on Thursday met BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda at the latter's residence here. The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance. Also read: Andhra Pradesh: BJP, Jana Sena announce coalition to emerge as ‘third alternative’ BJP Andhra Pradesh in-charge Sunil Deodhar and Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha Rao were also present at the meeting. Also read: BJP plans campaign blitzkrieg for Delhi polls; Shah and Nadda to hold padyatra, meetings in every constituency They have come together to defeat their common enemy YSR Congress in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital outside Amaravati. The two parties have also decided to organise a joint massive parade in Vijayawada on February 2.

Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan meets JP Nadda in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday remembered Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary and said that India will always remain grateful to him for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism.

"On 23rd January 1897, Janakinath Bose wrote in his diary, 'A son was born at midday.' This son became a valorous freedom fighter and thinker who devoted his life towards one great cause - India's freedom. I refer to Netaji Bose, who we proudly remember on his Jayanti today," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

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India will always remain grateful to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism. He stood up for the progress and well-being of his fellow Indians. <a href="https://t.co/otUlFanULs">pic.twitter.com/otUlFanULs</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1220177665203888128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"India will always remain grateful to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism. He stood up for the progress and well-being of his fellow Indians," he added.

Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju also paid tribute to Netaji on his birth anniversary.

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Heartfelt tributes to the great patriot, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti. 
 
An exceptional freedom fighter &amp; leader, his patriotic zeal and valour continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us. <a href="https://t.co/hPes3sD3rh">pic.twitter.com/hPes3sD3rh</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1220156191998906369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Heartfelt tributes to the great patriot, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti. An exceptional freedom fighter and leader, his patriotic zeal and valour continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us," Goyal tweeted.

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My deepest respect and salute to the great son of India, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary. A rich tribute to the hero of India's Independence movement🙏 <a href="https://t.co/BAvJW2ywhF">pic.twitter.com/BAvJW2ywhF</a>
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1220178287344771073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rijiju also took to the micro-blogging site and wrote, "My deepest respect and salute to the great son of India, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary. A rich tribute to the hero of India's Independence movement."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday remembered Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary and said that India will always remain grateful to him for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday remembered Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary and said that India will always remain grateful to him for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism. "On 23rd January 1897, Janakinath Bose wrote in his diary, 'A son was born at midday.' This son became a valorous freedom fighter and thinker who devoted his life towards one great cause - India's freedom. I refer to Netaji Bose, who we proudly remember on his Jayanti today," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. India will always remain grateful to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism. He stood up for the progress and well-being of his fellow Indians. pic.twitter.com/otUlFanULs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2020 × "India will always remain grateful to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for his bravery and indelible contribution to resisting colonialism. He stood up for the progress and well-being of his fellow Indians," he added. Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju also paid tribute to Netaji on his birth anniversary. Heartfelt tributes to the great patriot, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti. An exceptional freedom fighter & leader, his patriotic zeal and valour continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us. pic.twitter.com/hPes3sD3rh — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) January 23, 2020 × "Heartfelt tributes to the great patriot, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his Jayanti. An exceptional freedom fighter and leader, his patriotic zeal and valour continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us," Goyal tweeted. My deepest respect and salute to the great son of India, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary. A rich tribute to the hero of India's Independence movement🙏 pic.twitter.com/BAvJW2ywhF — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) January 23, 2020 × Rijiju also took to the micro-blogging site and wrote, "My deepest respect and salute to the great son of India, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary. A rich tribute to the hero of India's Independence movement."

'India will always remain grateful to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose': PM Narendra Modi

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-win-lok-sabha-polls-opposition-can-keep-dreaming-pm-modi-to-wion-217331">planned a campaign</a> for the Delhi Assembly polls with party national president Jagat Prakash Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah leading from the front.

Shah and Nadda will either hold a padyatra or address group meetings in every constituency, sources said. The candidates will also be asked to hold padyatras in their constituencies every day.

On Monday night, Shah along with Nadda, national general secretary BL Santhosh along with three general secretaries (organisation) from the states of Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, MPs including Manoj Tiwari, Vijay Goel, Pravesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri, Meenakshi Lekhi, Harshavardhan, Gautam Gambhir and Hansraj Hans, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Prakash Javadekar and Hardeep Singh Puri brainstormed on the campaign strategy in Delhi polls.

According to their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-proves-sceptics-wrong-with-stunning-performance-in-hindi-heartland-221136">campaign strategy</a>, 70 ministers, the majority of them from the Centre, would hold one public meeting and one padyatra each for two days.

"The campaign would begin from January 23 and a total of 280 group meetings and padyatras have been planned over two days," stated a senior party leader. "On January 23 and January 24, a total of 70 minister-rank leaders would address one group meeting and hold one padyatra in the constituency allotted to them. This would go on for two days," stated a source in BJP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/in-victory-or-defeat-bjp-responds-to-electoral-outcomes-more-maturely-202513">In victory or defeat, BJP responds to electoral outcomes more maturely</a>

<img alt="BJP Supporters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="534bc359-1e19-4bbb-8d79-9d04376c21fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2844%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ BJP Supporters (Courtesy: ANI) ]

The strategy for carpet bombing was planned last night to destabilise the hold of AAP in Delhi and Shah asked senior leaders present in the meeting to organise meetings for him even if these were small gatherings.

These meetings could take place at the residence of the candidates to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/heres-what-helped-bjp-return-to-power-with-a-full-majority-on-its-own-223034">strengthen their stature</a> further or in slums or colonies which were authorised by the government recently.

Other programmes planned by the party are youth 'sammelan' which will be organised between January 24 to January 26 and women 'sammelan' that will be held between January 27 to January 29, while meet-up of other segments, profession-specific could take place between January 30-31.

From January 31 to February 2, BJP leaders will highlight the schemes of the Central government. The leaders have been asked to communicate to the candidates that from January 25 onwards every day there should be a bike rally, a group of 20 people who would tour the constituency with flags and banners of the BJP candidate.

"With bike rallies, literature will also be distributed outside metro stations. Every car or other vehicle that is in support of BJP should have the candidate's sticker," added the source.

Polling on 70 Assembly seats in the national capital will be held on February 8 and the counting of votes will take place on February 11.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has planned a campaign for the Delhi Assembly polls with party national president Jagat Prakash Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah leading from the front.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has planned a campaign for the Delhi Assembly polls with party national president Jagat Prakash Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah leading from the front. Shah and Nadda will either hold a padyatra or address group meetings in every constituency, sources said. The candidates will also be asked to hold padyatras in their constituencies every day. On Monday night, Shah along with Nadda, national general secretary BL Santhosh along with three general secretaries (organisation) from the states of Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, MPs including Manoj Tiwari, Vijay Goel, Pravesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri, Meenakshi Lekhi, Harshavardhan, Gautam Gambhir and Hansraj Hans, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Prakash Javadekar and Hardeep Singh Puri brainstormed on the campaign strategy in Delhi polls. According to their campaign strategy, 70 ministers, the majority of them from the Centre, would hold one public meeting and one padyatra each for two days. "The campaign would begin from January 23 and a total of 280 group meetings and padyatras have been planned over two days," stated a senior party leader. "On January 23 and January 24, a total of 70 minister-rank leaders would address one group meeting and hold one padyatra in the constituency allotted to them. This would go on for two days," stated a source in BJP. Also Read: In victory or defeat, BJP responds to electoral outcomes more maturely [ BJP Supporters (Courtesy: ANI) ] The strategy for carpet bombing was planned last night to destabilise the hold of AAP in Delhi and Shah asked senior leaders present in the meeting to organise meetings for him even if these were small gatherings. These meetings could take place at the residence of the candidates to strengthen their stature further or in slums or colonies which were authorised by the government recently. Other programmes planned by the party are youth 'sammelan' which will be organised between January 24 to January 26 and women 'sammelan' that will be held between January 27 to January 29, while meet-up of other segments, profession-specific could take place between January 30-31. From January 31 to February 2, BJP leaders will highlight the schemes of the Central government. The leaders have been asked to communicate to the candidates that from January 25 onwards every day there should be a bike rally, a group of 20 people who would tour the constituency with flags and banners of the BJP candidate. "With bike rallies, literature will also be distributed outside metro stations. Every car or other vehicle that is in support of BJP should have the candidate's sticker," added the source. Polling on 70 Assembly seats in the national capital will be held on February 8 and the counting of votes will take place on February 11.

BJP plans campaign blitzkrieg for Delhi polls; Shah and Nadda to hold padyatra, meetings in every constituency

BJP leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-likens-kadam-to-alauddin-khilji-over-his-anti-women-remarks-164254">Ram Kadam has said</a> that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena.

"All BJP MPs, MLAs and councillors met on Tuesday. After Municipality polls in February 2022, the mayor will be from BJP. We have only 3-4 councillors less than Shiv Sena. We never stake a claim for Opposition but now we will sit in Opposition and will work as an aggressive force in the BMC," Ram Kadam said. "We will dig out scams of Shiv Sena in the BMC," he said.

<img alt="BBJP leader Ram Kadam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3535acd0-7426-481f-88b1-6c49c26fe5ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ BJP leader Ram Kadam (Courtesy: DNA) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-kadam-has-apologised-for-his-remarks-row-should-end-maharashtra-minister-164229">Ram Kadam has apologised for his remarks, row should end: Maharashtra minister</a>

In 2017 BMC polls, BJP had won 82 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 86 seats out of the total 227 seats. Currently, Sena corporator Kishori Pednekar is the Mayor of Mumbai.&nbsp;

This came after BJP broke its ties with Shiv Sena when the latter decided to go with the Nationalist Congress Party and Congress to form the government in the state after Assembly polls in October last year.

BJP leader Ram Kadam has said that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena.

BJP leader Ram Kadam has said that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena. "All BJP MPs, MLAs and councillors met on Tuesday. After Municipality polls in February 2022, the mayor will be from BJP. We have only 3-4 councillors less than Shiv Sena. We never stake a claim for Opposition but now we will sit in Opposition and will work as an aggressive force in the BMC," Ram Kadam said. "We will dig out scams of Shiv Sena in the BMC," he said. [ BJP leader Ram Kadam (Courtesy: DNA) ] Also Read: Ram Kadam has apologised for his remarks, row should end: Maharashtra minister In 2017 BMC polls, BJP had won 82 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 86 seats out of the total 227 seats. Currently, Sena corporator Kishori Pednekar is the Mayor of Mumbai. This came after BJP broke its ties with Shiv Sena when the latter decided to go with the Nationalist Congress Party and Congress to form the government in the state after Assembly polls in October last year.

Will expose Sena's scams in BMC, mayor will be of BJP after 2022 polls: Ram Kadam

In a major departure from the past, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s decision not to name its chief ministerial candidate ahead of Delhi elections betrays its nervousness. Since the BJP came to power in 2014 and bettered its performance in 2019 general elections, the party had always taunted its political rivals, particularly the Congress party, of going to the electoral battlefield without a commander. The BJP, which has always claimed to be a 'party with a difference' by naming its chief ministerial candidate known to the voters before the elections, has been forced to revisit its strategy this time.

Having lost five of the six states which went to the polls last year, not to speak of the near-about rout in Haryana where it somehow strolled to power by joining hands with its rival - the Jannayak Janata Party of Dushyant Chautala – the confidence level of the BJP has certainly taken a knock. With no credible face to take on the incumbent chief minister Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the BJP has once again decided to cash on the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. But, has it not been the strategy of the BJP since 2014 when it has repeatedly reaped political benefits in the states by piggy-backing on the aura of Modi?

But the last few state elections are proof that while Modi remains indispensable at the national level, his magic is weaning in states where people are more concerned about bread and butter. BJP’s opponents have triumphed by harping on the people-centric issues as opposed to the BJP’s nationalist agenda, be it the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir which provided special status to the former princely state, or the Supreme Court verdict on the decades-old contentious Babri Masjid verdict in Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Unlike in the past, the BJP has been way behind in declaring its candidates for Delhi polls. In fact, it waited for the AAP and the Congress before declaring its candidates. The party also suffered a setback as one of its oldest allies, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), chose to stay away from the polls reportedly on its reservations to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act. Though SAD failed to make a cut in the last assembly elections in the Sikh-dominated constituencies, its decision not to field candidates is also being read as a warning signal to the BJP.

Other than the regularisation of 1,728 unauthorised colonies, on which both the AAP and the BJP claim ownership, the latter does not have much to flaunt about. All the three municipal corporations run by the BJP are in a shambles with repeatedly getting flak from the apex court for turning Delhi into a garbage city. The municipal corporations of the national capital have been disdainfully pathetic to Prime Minister Narendra Modi government’s ambitious Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. While smaller cities have taken a steady march on the cleanliness drive, Delhi is nowhere near the race. In a Swachh Survekshan League 2020 released by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for two-quarters April 1 to June 30, and July 2 to September 30 in January this year, the three municipal corporations ranked almost at the bottom of 49 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across India.

Delhi Police, which comes under the Union home ministry, has been at the receiving end for its high-handedness as well as inept handling of the anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) protests on the campuses of the Jamia Millia Islamia and the Jawaharlal Nehru University respectively. Its seemingly preordained inquiry following the violence between two student groups in JNU is much left to be desired.

On the other hand, the AAP’s stocks are high as several of its welfare measures have added many newcomers, who have been largely benefited from the party’s largesse to its fold besides its committed cadre. Starting its inning as a rookie party, it has done well on its promises on education, healthcare, water, power etc, despite its failing on pollution and poor transport system.

Facing heat over CAA, price rise, job losses, rural distress and falling economy, the BJP has decided to convert the fight between two main political parties to a battle between Modi and Kejriwal. It remains to be seen who Delhi votes for on February 8 – a popular Modi or a charismatic Kejriwal.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a major departure from the past, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s decision not to name its chief ministerial candidate ahead of Delhi elections betrays its nervousness.

In a major departure from the past, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s decision not to name its chief ministerial candidate ahead of Delhi elections betrays its nervousness. Since the BJP came to power in 2014 and bettered its performance in 2019 general elections, the party had always taunted its political rivals, particularly the Congress party, of going to the electoral battlefield without a commander. The BJP, which has always claimed to be a 'party with a difference' by naming its chief ministerial candidate known to the voters before the elections, has been forced to revisit its strategy this time. Having lost five of the six states which went to the polls last year, not to speak of the near-about rout in Haryana where it somehow strolled to power by joining hands with its rival - the Jannayak Janata Party of Dushyant Chautala – the confidence level of the BJP has certainly taken a knock. With no credible face to take on the incumbent chief minister Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the BJP has once again decided to cash on the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. But, has it not been the strategy of the BJP since 2014 when it has repeatedly reaped political benefits in the states by piggy-backing on the aura of Modi? But the last few state elections are proof that while Modi remains indispensable at the national level, his magic is weaning in states where people are more concerned about bread and butter. BJP’s opponents have triumphed by harping on the people-centric issues as opposed to the BJP’s nationalist agenda, be it the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir which provided special status to the former princely state, or the Supreme Court verdict on the decades-old contentious Babri Masjid verdict in Ayodhya. Unlike in the past, the BJP has been way behind in declaring its candidates for Delhi polls. In fact, it waited for the AAP and the Congress before declaring its candidates. The party also suffered a setback as one of its oldest allies, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), chose to stay away from the polls reportedly on its reservations to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act. Though SAD failed to make a cut in the last assembly elections in the Sikh-dominated constituencies, its decision not to field candidates is also being read as a warning signal to the BJP. Other than the regularisation of 1,728 unauthorised colonies, on which both the AAP and the BJP claim ownership, the latter does not have much to flaunt about. All the three municipal corporations run by the BJP are in a shambles with repeatedly getting flak from the apex court for turning Delhi into a garbage city. The municipal corporations of the national capital have been disdainfully pathetic to Prime Minister Narendra Modi government’s ambitious Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. While smaller cities have taken a steady march on the cleanliness drive, Delhi is nowhere near the race. In a Swachh Survekshan League 2020 released by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for two-quarters April 1 to June 30, and July 2 to September 30 in January this year, the three municipal corporations ranked almost at the bottom of 49 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across India. Delhi Police, which comes under the Union home ministry, has been at the receiving end for its high-handedness as well as inept handling of the anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) protests on the campuses of the Jamia Millia Islamia and the Jawaharlal Nehru University respectively. Its seemingly preordained inquiry following the violence between two student groups in JNU is much left to be desired. On the other hand, the AAP’s stocks are high as several of its welfare measures have added many newcomers, who have been largely benefited from the party’s largesse to its fold besides its committed cadre. Starting its inning as a rookie party, it has done well on its promises on education, healthcare, water, power etc, despite its failing on pollution and poor transport system. Facing heat over CAA, price rise, job losses, rural distress and falling economy, the BJP has decided to convert the fight between two main political parties to a battle between Modi and Kejriwal. It remains to be seen who Delhi votes for on February 8 – a popular Modi or a charismatic Kejriwal. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Delhi Assembly elections: BJP must declare chief ministerial candidate

Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-the-bjp-lost-ground-in-jharkhand-271651">BJP</a> candidate from Hari Nagar constituency on Tuesday said that his party will win more than 50 seats in the Delhi Assembly polls.

"BJP will win more than 50 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections, Kejriwal ji is afraid of this. That is why documents were burnt at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-dtc-buses-torched-as-protests-against-citizenship-act-turn-violent-268397">Delhi Transport Corporation</a> (DTC) office, 15 days before the polls," Bagga told ANI.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday released the second list of 10 candidates for Delhi polls.

Bagga is in the fray against Aam Aadmi Party's Princess Dhillon and Congress' Surender Sethi.

Voting for the 70-member Delhi assembly will be held on February 8.

The counting of votes will take place on February 11.

The BJP faces a tough battle in Delhi where it has been out of power for over two decades. The party could win only three seats in the last assembly polls with the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-govt-constructed-20k-new-classrooms-in-5-years-says-arvind-kejriwal-273224">AAP</a> scoring a landslide victory with 67 seats.

Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga, BJP candidate from Hari Nagar constituency on Tuesday said that his party will win more than 50 seats in the Delhi Assembly polls. "BJP will win more than 50 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections, Kejriwal ji is afraid of this.

Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga, BJP candidate from Hari Nagar constituency on Tuesday said that his party will win more than 50 seats in the Delhi Assembly polls. "BJP will win more than 50 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections, Kejriwal ji is afraid of this. That is why documents were burnt at Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) office, 15 days before the polls," Bagga told ANI. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday released the second list of 10 candidates for Delhi polls. Bagga is in the fray against Aam Aadmi Party's Princess Dhillon and Congress' Surender Sethi. Voting for the 70-member Delhi assembly will be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11. The BJP faces a tough battle in Delhi where it has been out of power for over two decades. The party could win only three seats in the last assembly polls with the ruling AAP scoring a landslide victory with 67 seats.

BJP will win more than 50 seats in Delhi polls: Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga

BJP's newly-elected president JP Nadda on Monday said it is only possible in BJP that a worker like him, coming from a village in Himachal Pradesh, is given the responsibility of party chief.

In his speech at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters here after taking over as party chief, Nadda expressed gratitude to party's senior leaders for reposing faith in him.

"A simple worker like me, who did not have a political background, who hails from a remote place in Himachal Pradesh - if someone like me is being given this responsibility then it is the speciality of BJP and it is possible only in BJP," Nadda said.

"I thank the state units for electing me unopposed. I thank all the state units for giving me this opportunity. I will move forward with strength as I have received the full support of the party's central leadership," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister and outgoing BJP president Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari were among the party leaders present.

Nadda said the party will expand its base in states where it has not come to power so far.

"I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showing faith in me. Today, we are the world`s largest party that is in power in India. We have the highest number of MPs and MLAs in the country. We are not going to stop at this. There are some states left and we will make sure we reach to them as well," he said.

Nadda was unanimously elected national president of the party at the culmination of party`s organisational poll process.

BJP's newly-elected president JP Nadda on Monday said it is only possible in BJP that a worker like him, coming from a village in Himachal Pradesh, is given the responsibility of party chief.

BJP's newly-elected president JP Nadda on Monday said it is only possible in BJP that a worker like him, coming from a village in Himachal Pradesh, is given the responsibility of party chief. In his speech at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters here after taking over as party chief, Nadda expressed gratitude to party's senior leaders for reposing faith in him. "A simple worker like me, who did not have a political background, who hails from a remote place in Himachal Pradesh - if someone like me is being given this responsibility then it is the speciality of BJP and it is possible only in BJP," Nadda said. "I thank the state units for electing me unopposed. I thank all the state units for giving me this opportunity. I will move forward with strength as I have received the full support of the party's central leadership," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister and outgoing BJP president Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari were among the party leaders present. Nadda said the party will expand its base in states where it has not come to power so far. "I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showing faith in me. Today, we are the world`s largest party that is in power in India. We have the highest number of MPs and MLAs in the country. We are not going to stop at this. There are some states left and we will make sure we reach to them as well," he said. Nadda was unanimously elected national president of the party at the culmination of party`s organisational poll process.

Worker becoming president is speciality of BJP, says JP Nadda

Ahead of the nomination process for the election of BJP national president, senior leaders including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-one-bullet-fired-situation-in-kashmir-normal-amit-shah-267372">Amit Shah</a>, Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari on Monday reached the party headquarters here at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg.

Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states, including Uttar Pradesh CM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/niti-aayog-praises-yogi-government-for-kumbh-mela-arrangements-265276">Yogi Adityanath</a> and Goa CM Pramod Sawant, leaders, state chiefs and general secretaries are also present there.

As per the party sources, BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda is set to be the party chief and would be elected unopposed. Nadda will also file his nomination today.

A former Himachal Pradesh minister, Nadda has the organisational experience and became party's working president in June 2019 after the ruling party swept the Lok Sabha elections.

Nadda will replace Shah who is currently serving as Union Home Minister in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pariksha-pe-charcha-30-will-take-place-today-at-talkatora-stadium-new-delhi-275365">Narendra Modi</a> cabinet and had been serving as party chief till now.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will felicitate the newly elected BJP president later today at the party headquarters.

Speaking about the election process, BJP leader Dushyant Gautam said: "If there will be a single nomination then the name of the new BJP national president will be announced today itself. But in case, there will be two nominations, then the election process will be conducted tomorrow."

Ahead of the nomination process for the election of BJP national president, senior leaders including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari on Monday reached the party headquarters here at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg.

Ahead of the nomination process for the election of BJP national president, senior leaders including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari on Monday reached the party headquarters here at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg. Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states, including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Goa CM Pramod Sawant, leaders, state chiefs and general secretaries are also present there. As per the party sources, BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda is set to be the party chief and would be elected unopposed. Nadda will also file his nomination today. A former Himachal Pradesh minister, Nadda has the organisational experience and became party's working president in June 2019 after the ruling party swept the Lok Sabha elections. Nadda will replace Shah who is currently serving as Union Home Minister in the Narendra Modi cabinet and had been serving as party chief till now. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will felicitate the newly elected BJP president later today at the party headquarters. Speaking about the election process, BJP leader Dushyant Gautam said: "If there will be a single nomination then the name of the new BJP national president will be announced today itself. But in case, there will be two nominations, then the election process will be conducted tomorrow."

BJP top leadership reaches party headquarters in Delhi ahead of nomination process for national president

Marathon meetings are being held at BJP headquarters&nbsp;on Sunday, a day ahead of the election of the party working president JP Nadda as party chief.

Senior party leaders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Thawar Chand Gehlot, and other national and national level functionaries of BJP are part of these meetings.

After his election to the post of party chief, Nadda is slated to hold a meeting with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states.

According to party sources, he will file nomination for the top post in the morning following which he will be unanimously declared as elected unopposed at 3 pm.

Thereafter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address the party workers.

The election of party chief is taking place as the culmination of the organisational election process.

According to the schedule, the nomination will be made between 10 am and 12.30 am and the scrutiny will take place on the same day.

Nadda would take over the reins of the party from Amit Shah under whose leadership BJP has won emphatic electoral victories.

Shah is also union Home Minister and had been serving party chief till now.

A former Himachal Pradesh minister, Nadda has the organisational experience and became party's working president in June 2019 after the ruling party swept the Lok Sabha election.

BJP state chiefs, general secretaries and senior leaders would be present at the party headquarters on January 20.

Marathon meetings are being held at BJP headquarters on Sunday, a day ahead of the election of the party working president JP Nadda as party chief. Senior party leaders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Thawar Chand Gehlot, and other national and national level functionaries of BJP are part of these meetings.

Marathon meetings are being held at BJP headquarters on Sunday, a day ahead of the election of the party working president JP Nadda as party chief. Senior party leaders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Thawar Chand Gehlot, and other national and national level functionaries of BJP are part of these meetings. After his election to the post of party chief, Nadda is slated to hold a meeting with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states. According to party sources, he will file nomination for the top post in the morning following which he will be unanimously declared as elected unopposed at 3 pm. Thereafter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address the party workers. The election of party chief is taking place as the culmination of the organisational election process. According to the schedule, the nomination will be made between 10 am and 12.30 am and the scrutiny will take place on the same day. Nadda would take over the reins of the party from Amit Shah under whose leadership BJP has won emphatic electoral victories. Shah is also union Home Minister and had been serving party chief till now. A former Himachal Pradesh minister, Nadda has the organisational experience and became party's working president in June 2019 after the ruling party swept the Lok Sabha election. BJP state chiefs, general secretaries and senior leaders would be present at the party headquarters on January 20.

Marathon meetings at BJP headquarters ahead of Nadda's election to top post

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections.

Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini.

Rekha Gupta and Suman Kumar Gupta have been fielded from Shalimar Bagh and Chandni Chowk seats respectively.

The voting in Delhi will be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.

The AAP under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is aiming to retain power in the national capital.

In the 2015 Assembly polls, AAP secured the absolute majority by garnering 67 seats. The BJP managed only three, while the Congress drew a blank.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections. Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday declared the names of 57 candidates out of 70 for the next month's Delhi Assembly elections. Former AAP leader Kapil Mishra, who joined BJP last year, will contest from Model Town in north Delhi while the sitting legislator Vijender Gupta will fight from Rohini. Rekha Gupta and Suman Kumar Gupta have been fielded from Shalimar Bagh and Chandni Chowk seats respectively. The voting in Delhi will be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11. The AAP under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is aiming to retain power in the national capital. In the 2015 Assembly polls, AAP secured the absolute majority by garnering 67 seats. The BJP managed only three, while the Congress drew a blank.

Delhi Assembly polls: BJP announces 57 candidates, Kapil Mishra fielded from Model Town

On her 64th birthday on Wednesday, BSP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-mayawati-she-must-visit-rajasthan-to-meet-kota-victimss-families-272134">Mayawati</a> slammed both the BJP and the Congress and said that both have ignored people's welfare during their governments.

"The BJP-led Central government is also following the path of Congress party. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">BJP</a> like Congress has kept aside issues of people welfare and national interest," Mayawati said at a press conference here.

"It is misusing its powers for political gains. Wrong policies of government have led to disturbance of law and order situation across the country, which is a matter of national concern. Poverty, unemployment, anarchy, violence have gone beyond what was there during Congress rule," she said.

The BSP chief said that the nation's economy has taken a hit due to Centre's policies.

Mayawati said that BSP workers will celebrate her birthday as "people's welfare day" to follow the movement of Jyotirao Phule, Chatrapati Shahuji Maharaj, Narayana Guru, Baba saheb BR Ambedkar and Kashiram.

She also released a book today about her struggle and BSP's journey in the last year.

Emphasising that her party is against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-avoidable-controversy-267862">Citizenship (Amendment) Act</a>, 2019, Mayawati urged the Centre to withdraw the Act as it is unconstitutional said it is not right to exclude Muslims.

The former chief minister said that the recently implemented police commissionerate system in Noida and Lucknow is good but the state government doesn't have the will power to take action criminal elements.

"There is no law and order in Uttar Pradesh, there is 'jungle raj'. BJP has criminals at the party but the government does not take action. I acted against BSP MLAs during my government," she said.

On her 64th birthday on Wednesday, BSP chief Mayawati slammed both the BJP and the Congress and said that both have ignored people's welfare during their governments.

On her 64th birthday on Wednesday, BSP chief Mayawati slammed both the BJP and the Congress and said that both have ignored people's welfare during their governments. "The BJP-led Central government is also following the path of Congress party. BJP like Congress has kept aside issues of people welfare and national interest," Mayawati said at a press conference here. "It is misusing its powers for political gains. Wrong policies of government have led to disturbance of law and order situation across the country, which is a matter of national concern. Poverty, unemployment, anarchy, violence have gone beyond what was there during Congress rule," she said. The BSP chief said that the nation's economy has taken a hit due to Centre's policies. Mayawati said that BSP workers will celebrate her birthday as "people's welfare day" to follow the movement of Jyotirao Phule, Chatrapati Shahuji Maharaj, Narayana Guru, Baba saheb BR Ambedkar and Kashiram. She also released a book today about her struggle and BSP's journey in the last year. Emphasising that her party is against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, Mayawati urged the Centre to withdraw the Act as it is unconstitutional said it is not right to exclude Muslims. The former chief minister said that the recently implemented police commissionerate system in Noida and Lucknow is good but the state government doesn't have the will power to take action criminal elements. "There is no law and order in Uttar Pradesh, there is 'jungle raj'. BJP has criminals at the party but the government does not take action. I acted against BSP MLAs during my government," she said.

BJP following path of Congress: Mayawati

New Delhi's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/students-protest-across-country-after-jnu-attack-272583">Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)</a> witnessed violence yesterday which left many students and faculty members injured. In the aftermath of these events, a fact-finding committee has been ordered under the Joint Commissioner of Police.

According to the Jawaharlal Nehru Students' Union, the police did not provide any assistance even after being called for two hours.

On the other hand, the police say that they responded to the calls that they had received and conducted a flag march to control the situation.

Additionally, around 700 police personnel have been deployed outside the gates of JNU.

Watch:&nbsp;Over 34 students, 12 teachers injured in JNU violence

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-over-34-students-12-teachers-injured-in-jnu-violence-272569/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

JNU Students' Union President Aishe Ghosh has referred to the violence as an 'organised attack'. Ghosh, who is also a member of the All India Students' Association (AISA) has demanded JNU Vice Chancellor's resignation amid the chaos.

Ghosh accused professors affiliated to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sundays-attack-was-orchestrated-by-rss-affiliated-professors-and-abvp-jnusu-president-272561">Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh</a> (RSS) of inciting violence, especially to break the anti-fee hike movement which has plagued the campus for weeks now.

She added that regardless, JNU shall continue to uphold its democratic culture. Ghosh was one of the victims of masked vandals who had stormed the campus bearing rods, knives, and stones.

A viral video on social media showed Ghosh covered in blood after the attack.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/students-protest-across-country-after-jnu-attack-272583">Students protest across country following yesterday's JNU attack</a>

The teachers federation of JNU has demanded the administration and law enforcement agencies for swift action against the perpetrators. In an official statement, the teachers said that the mob marched from hostel to hostel, attacked students, teachers and wardens alike, and also caused a lot of damage to public property.

On Sunday evening, around fifty people, with their faces covered launched <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-violence-most-clinching-we-are-moving-towards-anarchy-p-chidambaram-272576">an attack</a> on the students and the faculty members who were on campus.

According to reports, police officers were stationed at all major entrances since the afternoon.

The mayhem began at Sabarmati Hostel, where the mob vandalised the structures, broke into the hostel rooms, and thrashed the students.

The Delhi police have garnered criticism for not taking any action while the events unfolded in the university.

Additionally, the Delhi Commission for Women has taken suo-moto cognizance of the brutal attack on female students and faculty members inside the campus.

New Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) witnessed violence yesterday which left many students and faculty members injured. In the aftermath of these events, a fact-finding committee has been ordered under the Joint Commissioner of Police.

New Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) witnessed violence yesterday which left many students and faculty members injured. In the aftermath of these events, a fact-finding committee has been ordered under the Joint Commissioner of Police. According to the Jawaharlal Nehru Students' Union, the police did not provide any assistance even after being called for two hours. On the other hand, the police say that they responded to the calls that they had received and conducted a flag march to control the situation. Additionally, around 700 police personnel have been deployed outside the gates of JNU. Watch: Over 34 students, 12 teachers injured in JNU violence JNU Students' Union President Aishe Ghosh has referred to the violence as an 'organised attack'. Ghosh, who is also a member of the All India Students' Association (AISA) has demanded JNU Vice Chancellor's resignation amid the chaos. Ghosh accused professors affiliated to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of inciting violence, especially to break the anti-fee hike movement which has plagued the campus for weeks now. She added that regardless, JNU shall continue to uphold its democratic culture. Ghosh was one of the victims of masked vandals who had stormed the campus bearing rods, knives, and stones. A viral video on social media showed Ghosh covered in blood after the attack. Also read: Students protest across country following yesterday's JNU attack The teachers federation of JNU has demanded the administration and law enforcement agencies for swift action against the perpetrators. In an official statement, the teachers said that the mob marched from hostel to hostel, attacked students, teachers and wardens alike, and also caused a lot of damage to public property. On Sunday evening, around fifty people, with their faces covered launched an attack on the students and the faculty members who were on campus. According to reports, police officers were stationed at all major entrances since the afternoon. The mayhem began at Sabarmati Hostel, where the mob vandalised the structures, broke into the hostel rooms, and thrashed the students. The Delhi police have garnered criticism for not taking any action while the events unfolded in the university. Additionally, the Delhi Commission for Women has taken suo-moto cognizance of the brutal attack on female students and faculty members inside the campus.

Jawaharlal Nehru University row: Fact-finding committee ordered to assess mob attack

Dozens of masked men armed with sticks and stones stormed Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday evening and went about attacking teachers, students and vandalizing hostels, leaving many wounded.

Masked mob enters JNU campus, brutally beats students and teachers

In a bid to dispel rumors against the newly enacted Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a campaign on Sunday to generate awareness among the people regarding the citizenship law.

Starting from today, the campaign will conclude on January 15.

The party's top leadership will reach out to masses to end the confusion over the CAA spread by the Opposition.

In Uttar Pradesh, BJP working president JP Nadda will inaugurate a public relations campaign in Vaishali sector of Ghaziabad and also at Hindi Bhawan situated in Lohia Nagar.

While sharing more details of the same, State General Minister Vidyasagar Sonkar and State Minister Prakash Pal said that the Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will be in Lucknow and will begin the campaign in LDA Colony.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will also participate in the campaign and will visit Samvad Bhavan Gorakhpur later in the day.

As part of its programme, the BJP has launched a toll-free number 8866288662 for people to give missed calls to register their endorsement of the law.

The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

&nbsp;

In a bid to dispel rumors against the newly enacted Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a campaign on Sunday to generate awareness among the people regarding the citizenship law.

In a bid to dispel rumors against the newly enacted Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a campaign on Sunday to generate awareness among the people regarding the citizenship law. Starting from today, the campaign will conclude on January 15. The party's top leadership will reach out to masses to end the confusion over the CAA spread by the Opposition. In Uttar Pradesh, BJP working president JP Nadda will inaugurate a public relations campaign in Vaishali sector of Ghaziabad and also at Hindi Bhawan situated in Lohia Nagar. While sharing more details of the same, State General Minister Vidyasagar Sonkar and State Minister Prakash Pal said that the Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will be in Lucknow and will begin the campaign in LDA Colony. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will also participate in the campaign and will visit Samvad Bhavan Gorakhpur later in the day. As part of its programme, the BJP has launched a toll-free number 8866288662 for people to give missed calls to register their endorsement of the law. The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

BJP's public campaign on Citizenship Amendment Act to begin from today

BSP supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/mayawati-holds-the-key-to-2019-194234">Mayawati</a> on Wednesday extended greetings on New Year and said that peace and harmony should be maintained in the country.

"Some parties who are playing politics for their personal gains should not forget that India is a secular country and we should respect all religions. Peace and harmony should be maintained in the country," Mayawati said.

Mayawati further stated that 2019 was mostly divisive and one that weakened the principles of the Constitution because of BJP`s and its government`s "communal and narrow-minded thinking", She said that we should respect all religions.

BSP supremo Mayawati on Wednesday extended greetings on New Year and said that peace and harmony should be maintained in the country. "Some parties who are playing politics for their personal gains should not forget that India is a secular country and we should respect all religions.

BSP supremo Mayawati on Wednesday extended greetings on New Year and said that peace and harmony should be maintained in the country. "Some parties who are playing politics for their personal gains should not forget that India is a secular country and we should respect all religions. Peace and harmony should be maintained in the country," Mayawati said. Mayawati further stated that 2019 was mostly divisive and one that weakened the principles of the Constitution because of BJP`s and its government`s "communal and narrow-minded thinking", She said that we should respect all religions.

Respect all religions: Mayawati extends New Year greeting

This was a year which saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi's star rise to invincible heights - a landslide electoral win, an opposition in shambles and successive diplomatic victories.

After a series of diplomatic successes, India's image has taken a beating after the anti-citizenship law protests. The impatience to get things done could be the problem. There is a risk of crossing the thin line between decisive and dictatorial.&nbsp;

We have had protests before. People with all kinds of motivations, including political ones, have slammed the government in the past too.

But when apolitical people take extreme positions on issues that don't even affect them directly. Then you know that something is amiss.

Public protest and unrest have been the theme of this year. From Hong Kong to Chile to Lebanon and France, the might of the state has been challenged by the people.

But governments do not comment on domestic agitations elsewhere. But when they do, then the so-called internal issues become international ones.

India successfully took the world along on Balakot, Article 370, even on Ayodhya. There was sensitisation of the strategic partners who either backed India or remained quiet. However, the same support could not have been achieved for the Citizenship Act.

Now the CAA is India's law of course, an internal matter, and yet foreign players are stakeholders.&nbsp;

India cannot dismiss critics by calling it an internal issue when three of India's neighbours are directly affected. Bangladesh's foreign and home ministers cancelled a scheduled visit to India and a summit with the Japanese PM had to be postponed.

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) called the law discriminatory and followed now the OIC is reviving the Kashmir issue.

The BJP was once hailed as the master of messaging, today it is losing the narrative war. Because taking on a terror state is one thing, but taking on your own people is another.

The government will have to take international partners along. A question mark on India's secular credentials is something that the government can ill-afford. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

This was a year which saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi's star rise to invincible heights - a landslide electoral win, an opposition in shambles and successive diplomatic victories.

This was a year which saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi's star rise to invincible heights - a landslide electoral win, an opposition in shambles and successive diplomatic victories. After a series of diplomatic successes, India's image has taken a beating after the anti-citizenship law protests. The impatience to get things done could be the problem. There is a risk of crossing the thin line between decisive and dictatorial. We have had protests before. People with all kinds of motivations, including political ones, have slammed the government in the past too. But when apolitical people take extreme positions on issues that don't even affect them directly. Then you know that something is amiss. Public protest and unrest have been the theme of this year. From Hong Kong to Chile to Lebanon and France, the might of the state has been challenged by the people. But governments do not comment on domestic agitations elsewhere. But when they do, then the so-called internal issues become international ones. India successfully took the world along on Balakot, Article 370, even on Ayodhya. There was sensitisation of the strategic partners who either backed India or remained quiet. However, the same support could not have been achieved for the Citizenship Act. Now the CAA is India's law of course, an internal matter, and yet foreign players are stakeholders. India cannot dismiss critics by calling it an internal issue when three of India's neighbours are directly affected. Bangladesh's foreign and home ministers cancelled a scheduled visit to India and a summit with the Japanese PM had to be postponed. The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) called the law discriminatory and followed now the OIC is reviving the Kashmir issue. The BJP was once hailed as the master of messaging, today it is losing the narrative war. Because taking on a terror state is one thing, but taking on your own people is another. The government will have to take international partners along. A question mark on India's secular credentials is something that the government can ill-afford. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is the BJP government losing the narrative war?

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Singh Yadav on Sunday said that the BJP cannot decide on anyone`s citizenship and added that he will not fill National Population Register (NPR) form.

"Samajwadis want to save the Constitution. On the other hand, BJP wants to abolish the Constitution. Much of this pretence is done to divert attention. Do young people want employment or NPR?" Yadav said while addressing a gathering of party`s student wing leaders.

"No one from BJP can decide whether we are citizens or not. If the need arises, I will be the first one who will not fill any form, but the question is you will support or not. We will not fill the NPR form. What will you do? NRC and NPR are against poor and minority," he said.

NPR snowballed into conspiracy after Opposition parties alleged that NPR is the first step towards the creation of the National Register Citizens (NRIC).

However, Union Home Minister Amit Shah denied any link between the two exercises.

Yadav claimed that more than 300 BJP MLAs are angry with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

"Samajwadis are not afraid of FIR. When the Chief Minister himself withdraws the cases filed against him, then the cases filed against you will also be withdrawn if the Samajwadi government is formed," he added.

The Samajwadi Party president said that BJP is responsible for the current economic crisis.

"Demonetisation caused problems for small businesses. Further, the businesses are closing down due to the imposition of GST. The economy has reached the ICU. For all this, BJP is responsible," he said.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Singh Yadav on Sunday said that the BJP cannot decide on anyone`s citizenship and added that he will not fill National Population Register (NPR) form.

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Singh Yadav on Sunday said that the BJP cannot decide on anyone`s citizenship and added that he will not fill National Population Register (NPR) form. "Samajwadis want to save the Constitution. On the other hand, BJP wants to abolish the Constitution. Much of this pretence is done to divert attention. Do young people want employment or NPR?" Yadav said while addressing a gathering of party`s student wing leaders. "No one from BJP can decide whether we are citizens or not. If the need arises, I will be the first one who will not fill any form, but the question is you will support or not. We will not fill the NPR form. What will you do? NRC and NPR are against poor and minority," he said. NPR snowballed into conspiracy after Opposition parties alleged that NPR is the first step towards the creation of the National Register Citizens (NRIC). However, Union Home Minister Amit Shah denied any link between the two exercises. Yadav claimed that more than 300 BJP MLAs are angry with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. "Samajwadis are not afraid of FIR. When the Chief Minister himself withdraws the cases filed against him, then the cases filed against you will also be withdrawn if the Samajwadi government is formed," he added. The Samajwadi Party president said that BJP is responsible for the current economic crisis. "Demonetisation caused problems for small businesses. Further, the businesses are closing down due to the imposition of GST. The economy has reached the ICU. For all this, BJP is responsible," he said.

BJP can't decide on our citizenship, will not fill NPR form: Akhilesh Yadav

Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-we-say-the-sun-rises-from-east-then-owaisi-saab-would-say-it-rises-from-west-amit-shah-270056">Amit Shah</a> on Tuesday said that the National Population Register (NPR) will not affect the nationality status of any citizen of the country. 
 
"NPR will not affect anyone's nationality. Even if somebody's name is missing from NPR, then too, his citizenship will not be threatened," Shah said in an exclusive interview with ANI's Editor Smita Prakash. 
 
Shah asserted that NPR was a continuation of a move started by the former UPA government. 
 
"It is a constitutional provision and is the same exercise which was conducted by the Congress-led government earlier. It is neither a part of our manifesto nor our promise. It was a good move started by the Congress which is simply being followed," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/state-governments-should-not-politicise-population-register-npr-and-nrc-are-different-amit-shah-270055">Shah's remarks</a> came on a day the Union Cabinet approved the proposal for conducting Census of India 2021 and updating the&nbsp;National Population Register. 
 
He assured that no person should have any reason to be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-chairs-high-level-meet-to-discuss-jammu-and-kashmir-issues-270008">concerned about the exercise</a> and data collected under NPR exercise is helpful for the government to formulate schemes for people. 
 
"The data collected under NPR will be used to formulate plans for the betterment of the public through central government schemes. It is not an exercise to decide citizenship of any person," Shah said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the National Population Register (NPR) will not affect the nationality status of any citizen of the country. "NPR will not affect anyone's nationality.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the National Population Register (NPR) will not affect the nationality status of any citizen of the country. "NPR will not affect anyone's nationality. Even if somebody's name is missing from NPR, then too, his citizenship will not be threatened," Shah said in an exclusive interview with ANI's Editor Smita Prakash. Shah asserted that NPR was a continuation of a move started by the former UPA government. "It is a constitutional provision and is the same exercise which was conducted by the Congress-led government earlier. It is neither a part of our manifesto nor our promise. It was a good move started by the Congress which is simply being followed," he said. Shah's remarks came on a day the Union Cabinet approved the proposal for conducting Census of India 2021 and updating the National Population Register. He assured that no person should have any reason to be concerned about the exercise and data collected under NPR exercise is helpful for the government to formulate schemes for people. "The data collected under NPR will be used to formulate plans for the betterment of the public through central government schemes. It is not an exercise to decide citizenship of any person," Shah said.

NPR not a threat to anybody's citizenship: Home Minister Amit Shah

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/devendra-fadnavis-enjoys-unbridled-popularity-and-excellent-mass-connect-256436">Devendra Fadnavis </a>on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country.

"Politics is being done over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and people are being provoked. There is an attempt to create instability in the country by a few parties," Fadnavis told media persons in West Bengal.

He asserted that the law is "not against anyone but is for the people who were religiously persecuted."

Launching a tirade against West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-has-taken-unconstitutional-route-by-seeking-outside-intervention-on-caa-wb-guv-269261">Mamata Banerjee</a>, Fadnavis said that her stand on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/caa-and-nrc-protests-addressing-concerns-of-protesters-a-must-for-government-268749">CAA</a> is "against people who were persecuted".

Protests have been going on across the country to oppose the Act which grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country. "Politics is being done over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and people are being provoked. There is an attempt to create instability in the country by a few parties," Fadnavis told media persons in West Bengal. He asserted that the law is "not against anyone but is for the people who were religiously persecuted." Launching a tirade against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Fadnavis said that her stand on CAA is "against people who were persecuted". Protests have been going on across the country to oppose the Act which grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

Politics being done over CAA: Former Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis

In a bid to change the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-caa-protests-a-ticking-ignorance-bomb-and-a-sheer-vandalism-with-truth-269453">public opinion</a> regarding the Citizen Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday launched an event in favour of the new law.

The seminar titled 'Jana Jagratha Sadas' was held in Thiruvananthapuram, which was inaugurated by Rajashekaran.

Former Calicut University vice-chancellor M Abdul Salam was one of the speakers of the seminar.

Speaking to ANI, senior BJP leader Kummanam Rajashekaran said that the party will launch seminars, discussion forums, and solidarity marches in support of CAA and against the campaign by Congress and CPI(M) over the same issue.

Also Watch: Congress holds protest at Rajghat against CAA

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"In Kerala, the CPI(M) and Congress have joined hands to oppose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-citizenship-amendment-act-protests-stalin-leads-dmk-allies-in-the-rally-against-caa-eps-says-beware-of-false-propaganda-269712">CAA</a> launching a false campaign. We will be opposing this propaganda by making people aware of the CAA," he said.

The former Mizoram Governor said the BJP central leadership has asked to launch the campaign in Kerala as part of the party's efforts to create a formidable opposition to the "false campaign by Congress, CPI (M)" and other parties against the Centre.

In a bid to change the public opinion regarding the Citizen Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday launched an event in favour of the new law. The seminar titled 'Jana Jagratha Sadas' was held in Thiruvananthapuram, which was inaugurated by Rajashekaran.

In a bid to change the public opinion regarding the Citizen Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday launched an event in favour of the new law. The seminar titled 'Jana Jagratha Sadas' was held in Thiruvananthapuram, which was inaugurated by Rajashekaran. Former Calicut University vice-chancellor M Abdul Salam was one of the speakers of the seminar. Speaking to ANI, senior BJP leader Kummanam Rajashekaran said that the party will launch seminars, discussion forums, and solidarity marches in support of CAA and against the campaign by Congress and CPI(M) over the same issue. Also Watch: Congress holds protest at Rajghat against CAA × "In Kerala, the CPI(M) and Congress have joined hands to oppose CAA launching a false campaign. We will be opposing this propaganda by making people aware of the CAA," he said. The former Mizoram Governor said the BJP central leadership has asked to launch the campaign in Kerala as part of the party's efforts to create a formidable opposition to the "false campaign by Congress, CPI (M)" and other parties against the Centre.

Kerala: BJP holds first event to change public opinion on CAA

JMM-Congress Coalition Unseats BJP From Power In Jharkhand. #Gravitas #JMM #Congress #WION

Gravitas: Jharkhand: Another State Slips Out Of BJP's Hold

The election victory in Jharkhand by JMM, Congress and RJD is a classic example of an organic alliance defeating a much powerful adversary. Though BJP’s incumbency is also to blame for their defeat, few things done by the JMM-Congress alliance helped turn the tide.

Congress leaders camped in Ranchi

For the first time, Congress General Secretary and Chief Election Coordinator stayed put in the state for straight 40 days. RPN Singh, the General Secretary in-charge and Chief Election Coordinator Ajay Sharma stayed put through the campaign and work was not outsourced to the PCC office. None of them left Ranchi barring an odd and quick visit to Delhi to sort political issues with the leadership. Such intense engagement at the level of the General Secretary has taken place after 19 years in Jharkhand politics.

JMM-Congress fought elections on local issues and prevented ideological polarisation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah wanted to polarise the election around the Citizenship Amendment Act, the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Article 370 but all three parties did not allow it. All three parties focused on local issues like land redistribution to the tribal community to new MSP prices for the paddy. The focus remained on immediate issues rather than slogans given by the leaders who came from Delhi. The alliance ensured that the election doesn’t get polarised on ideological issues. In the last phase in the Santhals, BJP’s gain remained incremental. They only gained two seats.

Alliance did not allow controversial leaders to campaign

Congress did not allow controversial leaders to campaign in the state. Congress did not create any controversy on ideological issues. Rahul Gandhi campaigned in five places, Priyanka in one, Jyotiraditya Scindhia in two, and Sachin Pilot also in two places. Rest of the leaders were state leaders. Even leaders like Chidambaram and Manish Tewari kept to the local issues after addressing the economy in the press conference. The Jharkhand team denied requests of many such controversial leaders to campaign in the state.

All rebels were accommodated reducing rebel candidates to zero

Alliance management was taken very seriously by the Congress. Despite being a junior partner, Congress organised joint meetings with two other partners at the workers level. It accommodated all the demands of Hemant Soren when it came to seat distribution. In fact, Congress did not give a candidate when its own senior leader Sarfaraz Ahmad got a ticket from JMM. Congress ensured that rebel candidates become a thing of past and most of the candidates denied tickets were accommodated during rallies on the stage with the top leadership. &nbsp;Alliance ensured that share of rebels kept at a minimum.

Ahmad Patel in charge

Senior Congress leader Ahmad Patel enjoyed a free hand. In fact, this election was an out and out AP’s election. He gave a free hand to his team and intervened only when serious issues had to be sorted out with RJD and JMM leadership. He was the only senior person from Delhi directly involved with the state elections. It created a clean chain of command without creating confusion in the rank and file of the party. There was minimum interference from the office of Rahul Gandhi.

Block Presidents given due importance

RPN’s team did not allow any difference of opinion to emerge in this case. In fact, all district heads and bloc presidents were given space on the dais, when Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders campaigned in the state. His rallies were not allowed to become conclaves for the Youth Congress. The local unit in one case even overruled Rahul Gandhi’s personal secretary who wanted to seat a couple of Youth Congress members on the dais. The person-in-charge categorically denied the request and told him that space above is reserved for bloc presidents who play an important role during the elections.

Chhattisgarh Model

Bhupesh Baghel, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh also played an active role in this election. The forest minister of Madhya Pradesh Umang Singhar also camped in Jharkhand. Lot of state leaders went for a low-key campaign which focused on immediate issues like education, schools, and public safety. All remained low-key. Social media was used judiciously. Jharkhand elections witnessed the absence of any controversy thanks to social media.

Targeted BJP for corruption and bad governance

Jharkhand is perhaps one state where the grand alliance was able to nullify BJP’s most potent electoral weapon. In fact, it used corruption as an issue against BJP. Governance and corruption are two issues which BJP has effectively used against the central leadership of the Congress in the past six years but in Jharkhand, the Congress was able to use these two issues against the BJP.

The election victory in Jharkhand by JMM, Congress and RJD is a classic example of an organic alliance defeating a much powerful adversary. Though BJP’s incumbency is also to blame for their defeat, few things done by the JMM-Congress alliance helped turn the tide.

The election victory in Jharkhand by JMM, Congress and RJD is a classic example of an organic alliance defeating a much powerful adversary. Though BJP’s incumbency is also to blame for their defeat, few things done by the JMM-Congress alliance helped turn the tide. Congress leaders camped in Ranchi For the first time, Congress General Secretary and Chief Election Coordinator stayed put in the state for straight 40 days. RPN Singh, the General Secretary in-charge and Chief Election Coordinator Ajay Sharma stayed put through the campaign and work was not outsourced to the PCC office. None of them left Ranchi barring an odd and quick visit to Delhi to sort political issues with the leadership. Such intense engagement at the level of the General Secretary has taken place after 19 years in Jharkhand politics. JMM-Congress fought elections on local issues and prevented ideological polarisation Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah wanted to polarise the election around the Citizenship Amendment Act, the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Article 370 but all three parties did not allow it. All three parties focused on local issues like land redistribution to the tribal community to new MSP prices for the paddy. The focus remained on immediate issues rather than slogans given by the leaders who came from Delhi. The alliance ensured that the election doesn’t get polarised on ideological issues. In the last phase in the Santhals, BJP’s gain remained incremental. They only gained two seats. Alliance did not allow controversial leaders to campaign Congress did not allow controversial leaders to campaign in the state. Congress did not create any controversy on ideological issues. Rahul Gandhi campaigned in five places, Priyanka in one, Jyotiraditya Scindhia in two, and Sachin Pilot also in two places. Rest of the leaders were state leaders. Even leaders like Chidambaram and Manish Tewari kept to the local issues after addressing the economy in the press conference. The Jharkhand team denied requests of many such controversial leaders to campaign in the state. All rebels were accommodated reducing rebel candidates to zero Alliance management was taken very seriously by the Congress. Despite being a junior partner, Congress organised joint meetings with two other partners at the workers level. It accommodated all the demands of Hemant Soren when it came to seat distribution. In fact, Congress did not give a candidate when its own senior leader Sarfaraz Ahmad got a ticket from JMM. Congress ensured that rebel candidates become a thing of past and most of the candidates denied tickets were accommodated during rallies on the stage with the top leadership. Alliance ensured that share of rebels kept at a minimum. Ahmad Patel in charge Senior Congress leader Ahmad Patel enjoyed a free hand. In fact, this election was an out and out AP’s election. He gave a free hand to his team and intervened only when serious issues had to be sorted out with RJD and JMM leadership. He was the only senior person from Delhi directly involved with the state elections. It created a clean chain of command without creating confusion in the rank and file of the party. There was minimum interference from the office of Rahul Gandhi. Block Presidents given due importance RPN’s team did not allow any difference of opinion to emerge in this case. In fact, all district heads and bloc presidents were given space on the dais, when Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders campaigned in the state. His rallies were not allowed to become conclaves for the Youth Congress. The local unit in one case even overruled Rahul Gandhi’s personal secretary who wanted to seat a couple of Youth Congress members on the dais. The person-in-charge categorically denied the request and told him that space above is reserved for bloc presidents who play an important role during the elections. Chhattisgarh Model Bhupesh Baghel, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh also played an active role in this election. The forest minister of Madhya Pradesh Umang Singhar also camped in Jharkhand. Lot of state leaders went for a low-key campaign which focused on immediate issues like education, schools, and public safety. All remained low-key. Social media was used judiciously. Jharkhand elections witnessed the absence of any controversy thanks to social media. Targeted BJP for corruption and bad governance Jharkhand is perhaps one state where the grand alliance was able to nullify BJP’s most potent electoral weapon. In fact, it used corruption as an issue against BJP. Governance and corruption are two issues which BJP has effectively used against the central leadership of the Congress in the past six years but in Jharkhand, the Congress was able to use these two issues against the BJP.

Eight things JMM-RJD-Congress alliance did to defeat BJP

........Eight things JMM-RJD-Congress alliance did to defeat BJP

While addressing the people of Delhi at Ramleela Maidan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lashes out at the opposition for provoking violent protests against CAA & NRC all over the nation. He also washes out several doubts over CAA and NRC. #WION #PMModi #Delhi #India #CAA #NRC

Unity in diversity is India’s speciality, says PM Modi at Delhi rally

The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-citizenship-amendment-act-when-actors-turned-activists-269216">protests</a> over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

"We are seeing the active political debate, the discussions in Parliament, the protests by people who are espousing their views on that law. We are also fully aware that there is a judicial process that`s underway," the official said.

"And we respect India`s democratic institutions and India`s democratic practices, and we will continue to observe it on an ongoing basis,` the official added.

The senior State Department official said that Washington would talk to New Delhi "about the fact that as democracies, issues around minority rights, religious freedom, human rights are important pillars of democratic societies", and encourage India and the other democracies alike to adhere to those principles.

The official also said that the US recognises India as a vibrant democracy and holds regular conversations with the country "about a full range of issues".

Similar remarks were made by US Secretary of State Michael <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-on-the-call-says-pompeo-on-trump-call-to-ukraine-leader-253318">Pompeo</a> yesterday, when he said that his country cares deeply about protecting minorities and religious rights everywhere but honours "Indian democracy as they have a robust debate" on the issue of CAA.

"We care deeply and always will about protecting minorities, protecting religious rights everywhere. We honour Indian democracy and they have a robust debate in India on the issue. The US will be consistent in its response to these issues, not only in India but all across the world," Pompeo said during the joint presser with US Defence Secretary Mark Esper, India`s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-commence-22-ministerial-dialogue-in-washington-dc-269125">2+2</a> India-US ministerial dialogue.

His remarks came after being asked whether he thinks "it is appropriate for a democracy to use faith as a determining criterion for citizenship."Last week, the Indian Parliament had passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and it became an Act after receiving assent from President Ram Nath Kovind.

The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Commenting on the Kashmir issue, the senior State Department official said that Washington has spoken publicly of concerns about prolonged detentions in the region after the Indian government`s decision to revoke <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/article-370-abrogation-foreign-medias-india-bias-249191">Article 370</a> of the Constitution on August 5.&nbsp;

The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the protests over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the protests over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. "We are seeing the active political debate, the discussions in Parliament, the protests by people who are espousing their views on that law. We are also fully aware that there is a judicial process that`s underway," the official said. "And we respect India`s democratic institutions and India`s democratic practices, and we will continue to observe it on an ongoing basis,` the official added. The senior State Department official said that Washington would talk to New Delhi "about the fact that as democracies, issues around minority rights, religious freedom, human rights are important pillars of democratic societies", and encourage India and the other democracies alike to adhere to those principles. The official also said that the US recognises India as a vibrant democracy and holds regular conversations with the country "about a full range of issues". Similar remarks were made by US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo yesterday, when he said that his country cares deeply about protecting minorities and religious rights everywhere but honours "Indian democracy as they have a robust debate" on the issue of CAA. "We care deeply and always will about protecting minorities, protecting religious rights everywhere. We honour Indian democracy and they have a robust debate in India on the issue. The US will be consistent in its response to these issues, not only in India but all across the world," Pompeo said during the joint presser with US Defence Secretary Mark Esper, India`s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh after the 2+2 India-US ministerial dialogue. His remarks came after being asked whether he thinks "it is appropriate for a democracy to use faith as a determining criterion for citizenship."Last week, the Indian Parliament had passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and it became an Act after receiving assent from President Ram Nath Kovind. The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. Commenting on the Kashmir issue, the senior State Department official said that Washington has spoken publicly of concerns about prolonged detentions in the region after the Indian government`s decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5.

Respect India's democratic institutions; will continue to observe parliamentary discussions: US State Dept official on CAA

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility.

The ruling party was called the master of communication, they aced social media, they were on top of the curve when it came to digital messaging.

And now their government is failing to quell a protest that is spreading through social media. So what do they do? Shut the Internet?

Section 144 of the criminal procedure code is being imposed and implemented in various cities where protests are being held against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The government has a mandate to enact and pass laws - even controversial ones - but, if government agencies stifle peaceful protests, then it betrays their lack of confidence.

On WION Edit, we discuss why this isn't just about a bill anymore. There is a much bigger issue to be addressed.

It's important to address the issue of illegal migrants in India. But the absolute majority should not allow a government to force a law, whose constitutional validity is now sub-judice and suppress any opposition to the law.

If people protest a controversial law in a peaceful manner, what is the problem? Why should civil disobedience warrant the arrest of scholars? Should the government stifle the voices of protesters or listen to them?&nbsp;

The government is losing control on the narrative. Even its traditional supporters in the civil society are calling this move the proverbial last straw.

So what should the government do? After all, it got the Bill cleared in Parliament with the due procedure. It should wait for the Supreme Court hearing, allow peaceful protests, prevent violence, and most importantly, address the concerns of the people.

It will help in two ways:

&nbsp;1. Shed the perception that the government is partial and muscular.

2. Send out a strong message on the health of our democracy to the people of India and the rest of the world.

It should be reiterated that the levers of Indian democracy are thriving and well oiled and the judiciary will decide on constitutional matters.

The government's brazen and aggressive posturing on CAA&nbsp;has attracted criticism even external players are exploiting the situation to peddle lies about India.

The government can solve this by allowing, ensuring and facilitating peaceful protests.&nbsp;

The absolute majority may allow governments to pass laws, but implementation can only be achieved with public participation.

The people of India voted the BJP back to power in May 2019 with overwhelming numbers. However, a big mandate does not mean absolute power - if anything - it means more responsibility.

If some citizens want to register dissent, then a responsible government should allow such protests. Dissent is good for democracy, to gag these voices sets us on a dangerous path. This country was founded upon and has been built on civil disobedience.

And remember, Section 144 of the CRPC is not a tool of suppression of dissent. It is meant to be used when there is an emergency situation. Let there be calm, let there be peaceful protests.

There's a thin line between being decisive and being dictatorial. The government must ensure it's not crossing that line. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility.

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility. The ruling party was called the master of communication, they aced social media, they were on top of the curve when it came to digital messaging. And now their government is failing to quell a protest that is spreading through social media. So what do they do? Shut the Internet? Section 144 of the criminal procedure code is being imposed and implemented in various cities where protests are being held against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The government has a mandate to enact and pass laws - even controversial ones - but, if government agencies stifle peaceful protests, then it betrays their lack of confidence. On WION Edit, we discuss why this isn't just about a bill anymore. There is a much bigger issue to be addressed. It's important to address the issue of illegal migrants in India. But the absolute majority should not allow a government to force a law, whose constitutional validity is now sub-judice and suppress any opposition to the law. If people protest a controversial law in a peaceful manner, what is the problem? Why should civil disobedience warrant the arrest of scholars? Should the government stifle the voices of protesters or listen to them? The government is losing control on the narrative. Even its traditional supporters in the civil society are calling this move the proverbial last straw. So what should the government do? After all, it got the Bill cleared in Parliament with the due procedure. It should wait for the Supreme Court hearing, allow peaceful protests, prevent violence, and most importantly, address the concerns of the people. It will help in two ways: 1. Shed the perception that the government is partial and muscular. 2. Send out a strong message on the health of our democracy to the people of India and the rest of the world. It should be reiterated that the levers of Indian democracy are thriving and well oiled and the judiciary will decide on constitutional matters. The government's brazen and aggressive posturing on CAA has attracted criticism even external players are exploiting the situation to peddle lies about India. The government can solve this by allowing, ensuring and facilitating peaceful protests. The absolute majority may allow governments to pass laws, but implementation can only be achieved with public participation. The people of India voted the BJP back to power in May 2019 with overwhelming numbers. However, a big mandate does not mean absolute power - if anything - it means more responsibility. If some citizens want to register dissent, then a responsible government should allow such protests. Dissent is good for democracy, to gag these voices sets us on a dangerous path. This country was founded upon and has been built on civil disobedience. And remember, Section 144 of the CRPC is not a tool of suppression of dissent. It is meant to be used when there is an emergency situation. Let there be calm, let there be peaceful protests. There's a thin line between being decisive and being dictatorial. The government must ensure it's not crossing that line. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Citizenship Amendment Act - absolute power comes with responsibility

In India resentment over the amended Citizenship law among certain quarters has culminated into a series of protests. Atleast 20 petitions have been fired in the Supreme Court of India till now. A three-judge bench headed by Justice SA Bobde will hear the petition today.

Supreme Court 3 judge bench to hear CAA petition today

The world is watching the violence that has erupted after the passing of Citizenship Act in Indian Parliament. The reactions received from all over the world are not favourable. A UN agency has termed the new law 'fundamentally discriminatory'. #CAAProtest #CAB #CitizenshipLaw

India's new citizenship law sparks protest, gets global responses

The much-anticipated and pending organisational overhaul of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to take place post-Makar Sankranti which is considered as an auspicious period according to the Hindu calendar.

Sources said that among likely changes, would be relinquishing of the post of BJP president by Amit Shah and the induction of national working president JP Nadda to the top job.

The changes are likely to take place in the middle of January after Makar Sankranti ( January 14), the period considered to be particularly auspicious to embark on new assignments and projects, sources told ANI.

The organisational changes were delayed as the party wanted to consolidate itself in the Lok Sabha polls and also the assembly elections in various states.

"Decisions like the abrogation of Article 370, criminalisation of triple talaq and Citizenship Amendment Act had also delayed the organisational overhaul. The senior leadership did not want to make any hasty announcements or decisions, which could affect the party and its morale," sources said.

Since the tough decisions have been taken and implemented conclusively, the party`s central leadership would now concentrate at revamping and strengthening the party unit further, said sources.

They said the core team of the BJP is also expected to undergo changes as many leaders would either be replaced or given different roles in the new set up.

A senior party leader said that Nadda is expected to bring in his confidantes into the organisational setup, with the blessings of outgoing party chief Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This will give him a free hand in managing party affairs in his own way ahead of Assembly polls in the national capital and Bihar.

"The change of the guard on many fronts would be the first step towards making organisation ready for the next round of assembly elections," said sources.

The party is also expected to see major changes in states many state heads are likely to be replaced along with various chiefs of different wings.

Apart from Lok Sabha elections earlier this year, the party has been busy with assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand.&nbsp;

The much-anticipated and pending organisational overhaul of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to take place post-Makar Sankranti which is considered as an auspicious period according to the Hindu calendar.

The much-anticipated and pending organisational overhaul of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to take place post-Makar Sankranti which is considered as an auspicious period according to the Hindu calendar. Sources said that among likely changes, would be relinquishing of the post of BJP president by Amit Shah and the induction of national working president JP Nadda to the top job. The changes are likely to take place in the middle of January after Makar Sankranti ( January 14), the period considered to be particularly auspicious to embark on new assignments and projects, sources told ANI. The organisational changes were delayed as the party wanted to consolidate itself in the Lok Sabha polls and also the assembly elections in various states. "Decisions like the abrogation of Article 370, criminalisation of triple talaq and Citizenship Amendment Act had also delayed the organisational overhaul. The senior leadership did not want to make any hasty announcements or decisions, which could affect the party and its morale," sources said. Since the tough decisions have been taken and implemented conclusively, the party`s central leadership would now concentrate at revamping and strengthening the party unit further, said sources. They said the core team of the BJP is also expected to undergo changes as many leaders would either be replaced or given different roles in the new set up. A senior party leader said that Nadda is expected to bring in his confidantes into the organisational setup, with the blessings of outgoing party chief Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This will give him a free hand in managing party affairs in his own way ahead of Assembly polls in the national capital and Bihar. "The change of the guard on many fronts would be the first step towards making organisation ready for the next round of assembly elections," said sources. The party is also expected to see major changes in states many state heads are likely to be replaced along with various chiefs of different wings. Apart from Lok Sabha elections earlier this year, the party has been busy with assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand.

BJP likely to go for organisational overhaul after Makar Sankranti

Anti-Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 protests: 10 things you need to know

Former Maharashtra chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said that all the decisions in the previous government were taken in consultation with the Shiv Sena but now the party is opposing those very decisions.

"Earlier, Shiv Sena was with us and all the decisions were taken together. Now, the same Shiv Sena is opposing all those decisions and stopping work," Fadnavis said in a press conference.

He said that the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra has held several cabinet meetings but still has not taken any decision for granting relief to farmers.

"This government is also stopping all the work and taking reviews. No investment will come under this government. This government is starting something and later pulling away from it. How will any work get done under this government?" he said.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has stopped several government projects in Maharashtra and put several others under the lens for review after assuming power in the state.

Fadnavis also slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his 'Savarkar'&nbsp;remark and demanded an apology.

"Rahul Gandhi has given a statement on Veer Savarkar. Rahul Gandhi does not know anything about Veer Savarkar. Rahul Gandhi must apologise for his statement. Shiv Sena leaders love Veer Savarkar but what are they doing now," he said.

The comment comes after Rahul Gandhi, refusing to apologise for his 'rape in India'&nbsp;remark, said that he is 'not Rahul Savarkar'.&nbsp;

 
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Former Maharashtra chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said that all the decisions in the previous government were taken in consultation with the Shiv Sena but now the party is opposing those very decisions.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said that all the decisions in the previous government were taken in consultation with the Shiv Sena but now the party is opposing those very decisions. "Earlier, Shiv Sena was with us and all the decisions were taken together. Now, the same Shiv Sena is opposing all those decisions and stopping work," Fadnavis said in a press conference. He said that the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra has held several cabinet meetings but still has not taken any decision for granting relief to farmers. "This government is also stopping all the work and taking reviews. No investment will come under this government. This government is starting something and later pulling away from it. How will any work get done under this government?" he said. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has stopped several government projects in Maharashtra and put several others under the lens for review after assuming power in the state. Fadnavis also slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his 'Savarkar' remark and demanded an apology. "Rahul Gandhi has given a statement on Veer Savarkar. Rahul Gandhi does not know anything about Veer Savarkar. Rahul Gandhi must apologise for his statement. Shiv Sena leaders love Veer Savarkar but what are they doing now," he said. The comment comes after Rahul Gandhi, refusing to apologise for his 'rape in India' remark, said that he is 'not Rahul Savarkar'.

Shiv Sena opposing projects they agreed upon when with us: Devendra Fadnavis

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