Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-nana-patole-elected-as-maharashtra-assembly-speaker-unopposed-265530">Assembly</a>.

"I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened,"&nbsp;the chief minister said. It should be noted that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-uddhav-thackeray-led-government-passes-floor-test-in-state-assembly-265422">NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress formed an alliance </a>after long-time allies Sena and BJP had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I have learnt a lot of things from Fadnavis and I will always be befriended to him," Uddhav said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva' and won't ever leave it. In past 5 years, I've never betrayed the govt. <a href="https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR">https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR</a> <a href="https://t.co/3K5qJKEPAU">pic.twitter.com/3K5qJKEPAU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201048965279449090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thackeray also said that he is a "lucky" CM as those who opposed him are now in alliance with his party and his former friends are now sitting in Opposition. "I am here with my luck and blessings of people," the CM said.

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came. <a href="https://t.co/fobggtTIFj">pic.twitter.com/fobggtTIFj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201048330454781952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Maharashtra Assembly elected Congress's Nana Patole unopposed as Speaker of the House after BJP withdrew its candidate to maintain the tradition of Assembly. The BJP had nominated Kishan Rathore for the Speaker post.

On Sunday, Fadnavis was also elected as the Leader of Opposition of the Assembly.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the Assembly.

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday that he has learnt a lot of things from former CM Devendra Fadnavis and will always be befriended to him, in an address to the Assembly. "I won't call you (Devendra Fadnavis) an 'Opposition leader', but I will call you a 'responsible leader'. If you would have been good to us then, all this (BJP-Shiv Sena split) would have not happened," the chief minister said. It should be noted that the NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress formed an alliance after long-time allies Sena and BJP had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. "I have learnt a lot of things from Fadnavis and I will always be befriended to him," Uddhav said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadvanis and I will always be friends with him. I am still with the ideology of 'Hindutva' and won't ever leave it. In past 5 years, I've never betrayed the govt. https://t.co/RucxPRvsfR pic.twitter.com/3K5qJKEPAU — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2019 × Thackeray also said that he is a "lucky" CM as those who opposed him are now in alliance with his party and his former friends are now sitting in Opposition. "I am here with my luck and blessings of people," the CM said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray: I am a lucky CM because those who opposed me are now with me and those who I was with are now on the opposite side. I am here with my luck and blessings of people. I have never told anyone that I will be coming here but I came. pic.twitter.com/fobggtTIFj — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2019 × Earlier, the Maharashtra Assembly elected Congress's Nana Patole unopposed as Speaker of the House after BJP withdrew its candidate to maintain the tradition of Assembly. The BJP had nominated Kishan Rathore for the Speaker post. On Sunday, Fadnavis was also elected as the Leader of Opposition of the Assembly. (with inputs from ANI)

I have learnt a lot of things from Devendra Fadnavis: Uddhav Thackeray

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-confident-of-winning-all-15-seats-in-karnataka-bypolls-deputy-cm-ashwath-narayan-263908">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) </a>is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-congress-declares-names-of-six-candidates-contesting-assembly-by-polls-262661">Karnataka bypolls</a>.

"BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here.

"It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results."

Kharge further said that all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">disqualified MLAs </a>will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections.

"BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said.

Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns.

"The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said.

"In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added.

Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away."

The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.&nbsp;

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls. "BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here. "It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results." Kharge further said that all disqualified MLAs will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections. "BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said. Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns. "The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said. "In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added. Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away." The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.

BJP misusing Constitution, will be taught lesson in Karnataka bypolls: Mallikarjun Kharge

After the Maha Vikas Aghadi comfortably won the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly on Saturday, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that the tri-party alliance has passed the first test and was confident of clearing the second test regarding the election of the Speaker.

"We have passed the first exam of floor test and the second test is for the speaker's post and we are confident of clearing it too," he said while speaking to reporters.

NCP's Nawab Malik slammed the BJP for walking out of the state Assembly ahead of the floor test saying that the party was only trying to save face.

"Oath taking ceremony was conducted, Vidhan Sabha session held and Pro tem speaker appointed with the consent of the Governor and floor test was held as per the orders of the Supreme Court. BJP is only trying to save face," he said.

Following weeks of political twists and turns, Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance, Maha Vikas Aghadi, on Saturday comfortably won the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly with 169 votes in its favour.

Before the floor test proceeding started, opposition MLAs staged a walkout from the Assembly alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the Maha Vikas Aghadi comfortably won the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly on Saturday, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that the tri-party alliance has passed the first test and was confident of clearing the second test regarding the election of the Speaker.

After the Maha Vikas Aghadi comfortably won the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly on Saturday, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that the tri-party alliance has passed the first test and was confident of clearing the second test regarding the election of the Speaker. "We have passed the first exam of floor test and the second test is for the speaker's post and we are confident of clearing it too," he said while speaking to reporters. NCP's Nawab Malik slammed the BJP for walking out of the state Assembly ahead of the floor test saying that the party was only trying to save face. "Oath taking ceremony was conducted, Vidhan Sabha session held and Pro tem speaker appointed with the consent of the Governor and floor test was held as per the orders of the Supreme Court. BJP is only trying to save face," he said. Following weeks of political twists and turns, Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance, Maha Vikas Aghadi, on Saturday comfortably won the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly with 169 votes in its favour. Before the floor test proceeding started, opposition MLAs staged a walkout from the Assembly alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules.

We have passed first exam: Ajit Pawar on floor test

BJP working president JP Nadda on Saturday laid the foundation stone of party offices for 16 districts and called upon the workers to work towards uplifting people`s lives.

The 16 districts which will get new office buildings are -- Thiruvallore, Dharmapuri, Kanyakumari, Krishnagiri, Nagapattinam, Namakkal, Pudhukotai, Ramanathapuram, Thuthukudi, Thiruvanamalai, Thankore, Virudhunahar, Vizhupuram, Vellore, Theni and Thirunelveli.

Speaking on the occasion, Nadda said, "We, the people of BJP, should work to positively change the standard of living of people."

Asserting that BJP is a cadre-based party, Nadda said that BJP operates from its office, not from its leaders'&nbsp;houses.

"Our party does not work from leaders house but from the office," he said.

Nadda said that the BJP believes in 5 Ks i.e. Karyakarta (worker), Karyakarni (executive), Karyakaram (programme), Karyalay (office), and Kosh (treasury).

"I am happy to share with you that all 16 offices will have the most modern techniques will be installed so that they can work in an easy manner," he told the party workers.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP working president JP Nadda on Saturday laid the foundation stone of party offices for 16 districts and called upon the workers to work towards uplifting people`s lives.

BJP working president JP Nadda on Saturday laid the foundation stone of party offices for 16 districts and called upon the workers to work towards uplifting people`s lives. The 16 districts which will get new office buildings are -- Thiruvallore, Dharmapuri, Kanyakumari, Krishnagiri, Nagapattinam, Namakkal, Pudhukotai, Ramanathapuram, Thuthukudi, Thiruvanamalai, Thankore, Virudhunahar, Vizhupuram, Vellore, Theni and Thirunelveli. Speaking on the occasion, Nadda said, "We, the people of BJP, should work to positively change the standard of living of people." Asserting that BJP is a cadre-based party, Nadda said that BJP operates from its office, not from its leaders' houses. "Our party does not work from leaders house but from the office," he said. Nadda said that the BJP believes in 5 Ks i.e. Karyakarta (worker), Karyakarni (executive), Karyakaram (programme), Karyalay (office), and Kosh (treasury). "I am happy to share with you that all 16 offices will have the most modern techniques will be installed so that they can work in an easy manner," he told the party workers.

Nadda lays foundation stone for BJP offices in 16 Tamil Nadu districts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas'&nbsp;and continues to work towards developing India.

Taking to Twitter to mark the six-month completion of the second term of NDA government, PM Modi wrote, "Inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas'&nbsp;and with the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the NDA Government has continued working towards developing India and empowering the lives of 130 crore Indians with renewed vigour".

He also outlined the achievements of the last six months and added, "During the last six months, we have taken numerous decisions that have furthered development, accelerated social empowerment and enhanced India's unity. We aspire to do even more in the times to come, so that we create a prosperous and progressive New India".

Prime Minister Modi started his second tenure after his swearing-in as the 16th Prime Minister of India on May 30.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and continues to work towards developing India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and continues to work towards developing India. Taking to Twitter to mark the six-month completion of the second term of NDA government, PM Modi wrote, "Inspired by the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and with the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the NDA Government has continued working towards developing India and empowering the lives of 130 crore Indians with renewed vigour". He also outlined the achievements of the last six months and added, "During the last six months, we have taken numerous decisions that have furthered development, accelerated social empowerment and enhanced India's unity. We aspire to do even more in the times to come, so that we create a prosperous and progressive New India". Prime Minister Modi started his second tenure after his swearing-in as the 16th Prime Minister of India on May 30.

NDA working towards developing India, empowering lives of 130 crore Indians: PM Modi

In Maharashtra, Uddhav govt proves majority after backed by 169 MLAs in the floor test. Watch this video to know more.

Maharashtra: Uddhav govt proves majority after backed by 169 MLAs in floor test

In a brazen show of might, a Congress candidate KN Tripathi has brandished a pistol after a scuffle broke out between BJP and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-elections-4683-per-cent-voter-turnout-till-1-pm-265414">Congress supporters in Palamu</a> area on Saturday during the first phase of polling for the assembly elections in the state.

According to information, it all started when supporters of BJP candidate Alok Chaurasia allegedly stopped Tripathi from going to a polling booth in the area.

Some supporters also allegedly resorted to stone-pelting after which Tripathi took out the firearm and waved it purportedly in his bid to deter opponents and create fear. He can be seen accompanied by his security guards in the video.

After which few persons raised slogans to shoo him away from the spot.

"KN Tripathi Murdabad ! Bandook nikalta hai!," said one of the protesters.

In the first phase of polling in the state today, 13 constituencies spread over six districts Chatra, Palamu, Gumla, Garhwa, Latehar and Lohardagga are voting to elect their representatives.

The majority of the constituencies where polling is being held are in Naxal infested areas.

Over 37 lakh electorate, who are eligible to exercise their franchise, will decide the electoral fortune of 189 candidates, including 15 women candidates in the first phase of Assembly elections.

Security has been beefed up in these constituencies and adequate arrangements have been made at all polling booths.

Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

In a brazen show of might, a Congress candidate KN Tripathi has brandished a pistol after a scuffle broke out between BJP and Congress supporters in Palamu area on Saturday during the first phase of polling for the assembly elections in the state.

In a brazen show of might, a Congress candidate KN Tripathi has brandished a pistol after a scuffle broke out between BJP and Congress supporters in Palamu area on Saturday during the first phase of polling for the assembly elections in the state. According to information, it all started when supporters of BJP candidate Alok Chaurasia allegedly stopped Tripathi from going to a polling booth in the area. Some supporters also allegedly resorted to stone-pelting after which Tripathi took out the firearm and waved it purportedly in his bid to deter opponents and create fear. He can be seen accompanied by his security guards in the video. After which few persons raised slogans to shoo him away from the spot. "KN Tripathi Murdabad ! Bandook nikalta hai!," said one of the protesters. In the first phase of polling in the state today, 13 constituencies spread over six districts Chatra, Palamu, Gumla, Garhwa, Latehar and Lohardagga are voting to elect their representatives. The majority of the constituencies where polling is being held are in Naxal infested areas. Over 37 lakh electorate, who are eligible to exercise their franchise, will decide the electoral fortune of 189 candidates, including 15 women candidates in the first phase of Assembly elections. Security has been beefed up in these constituencies and adequate arrangements have been made at all polling booths. Further details are awaited.

Jharkhand polls: Congress candidate brandishes pistol to deter opponents after scuffle

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-congress-shiv-sena-alliance-in-maharashtra-will-prove-its-majority-during-floor-test-today-ajit-pawar-265380">floor test</a> on Saturday in the state assembly.&nbsp;

The alliance won a total of 169 votes&nbsp;amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties.

The proceedings for the floor test started with Congress leader Ashok Chavan moving the motion for the trust vote.

NCP leader Nawab Malik and Shiv Sena's Sunil Prabhu seconded the proposal. Before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-maha-vikas-aghadi-government-to-face-trust-vote-today-sanjay-raut-claims-support-of-170-mlas-265349">floor test</a> proceeding started, opposition MLAs also staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules.

The NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance comfortably managed to pass the floor test today.

Alliance leader and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray took the oath as Maharashtra's 18th chief minister on Thursday, three days after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar stepped down as chief minister and deputy chief minister as they could not prove majority in a Supreme Court-ordered floor test.&nbsp;

Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs.

"Today is the day to prove majority... 170 +++++..." he tweeted.

On Sunday, a permanent Speaker will be elected and the name of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) will be also announced.

As per the assembly results, the Shiv Sena has 56 MLAs, NCP has 54 and Congress has 44 in the 288-member state assembly.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the floor test on Saturday in the state assembly. The alliance won a total of 169 votes amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the floor test on Saturday in the state assembly. The alliance won a total of 169 votes amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties. The proceedings for the floor test started with Congress leader Ashok Chavan moving the motion for the trust vote. NCP leader Nawab Malik and Shiv Sena's Sunil Prabhu seconded the proposal. Before the floor test proceeding started, opposition MLAs also staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules. The NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance comfortably managed to pass the floor test today. Alliance leader and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray took the oath as Maharashtra's 18th chief minister on Thursday, three days after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar stepped down as chief minister and deputy chief minister as they could not prove majority in a Supreme Court-ordered floor test. Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs. "Today is the day to prove majority... 170 +++++..." he tweeted. On Sunday, a permanent Speaker will be elected and the name of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) will be also announced. As per the assembly results, the Shiv Sena has 56 MLAs, NCP has 54 and Congress has 44 in the 288-member state assembly.

Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray-led government passes floor test in state assembly 

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks.

Pragya, who is known for making controversial remarks, apologised for the second time in Lower House after the opposition members expressed dissatisfaction with her statement made earlier in the day.

"On November 27 during the discussion on SPG bill, I did not call Nathuram Godse 'deshbhakt', did not take his name. Even then if someone has been hurt, I express regret and seek an apology," she said earlier in the day.

However, Thakur had to be checked by Speaker amid interruptions by opposition members after she started speaking.

"I have tolerated many atrocities given by enemies..." she said in the beginning.

The second apology from Thakur came after the meeting of leaders in the House. In her apology in the House earlier, Pragya also raked up of being called terrorist by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Gandhi had on November 27 tweeted, "Terrorist Pragya calls terrorist Godse, a patriot. A sad day, in the history of India`s Parliament."

"If any of my remarks in the House have hurt anyone, I express regret for that and apologise. But I also want to say that my words in the House have been twisted and presented wrongly. My remarks had different context which were wrongly presented. The way my words have been twisted, it is condemnable," she said.

"I respect the service done by Mahatma Gandhi for the country. I want to tell the House that a member has publicly called me a terrorist. Despite the conspiracies of the then government against me, no charge has been proved against me. Without charge having been proved, calling me a terrorist is against the law. Calling me terrorist without charges having been proved in an attempt to insult me as a woman, as a "sanyasi", as an MP, is an attack on my dignity," she said.

She alleged the then government had hatched conspiracy to torture her mentally.

The remarks had led to a ruckus in the House with opposition members strongly protesting her remarks. Thakur had made the remarks, which were now expunged when DMK member was speaking on SPG amendment bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks.

BJP MP from Bhopal, Pragya Singh Thakur on Friday reiterated in Lok Sabha that she had not called Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a "deshbhakt" and expressed apology if someone had been hurt by her remarks. Pragya, who is known for making controversial remarks, apologised for the second time in Lower House after the opposition members expressed dissatisfaction with her statement made earlier in the day. "On November 27 during the discussion on SPG bill, I did not call Nathuram Godse 'deshbhakt', did not take his name. Even then if someone has been hurt, I express regret and seek an apology," she said earlier in the day. However, Thakur had to be checked by Speaker amid interruptions by opposition members after she started speaking. "I have tolerated many atrocities given by enemies..." she said in the beginning. The second apology from Thakur came after the meeting of leaders in the House. In her apology in the House earlier, Pragya also raked up of being called terrorist by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi had on November 27 tweeted, "Terrorist Pragya calls terrorist Godse, a patriot. A sad day, in the history of India`s Parliament." "If any of my remarks in the House have hurt anyone, I express regret for that and apologise. But I also want to say that my words in the House have been twisted and presented wrongly. My remarks had different context which were wrongly presented. The way my words have been twisted, it is condemnable," she said. "I respect the service done by Mahatma Gandhi for the country. I want to tell the House that a member has publicly called me a terrorist. Despite the conspiracies of the then government against me, no charge has been proved against me. Without charge having been proved, calling me a terrorist is against the law. Calling me terrorist without charges having been proved in an attempt to insult me as a woman, as a "sanyasi", as an MP, is an attack on my dignity," she said. She alleged the then government had hatched conspiracy to torture her mentally. The remarks had led to a ruckus in the House with opposition members strongly protesting her remarks. Thakur had made the remarks, which were now expunged when DMK member was speaking on SPG amendment bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

Pragya Thakur apologies second time in Lok Sabha, reiterates didn't call Godse 'deshbhakt'

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">Uddhav Thackeray </a>was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too.&nbsp;

On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra. Sardesai's statements came after Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut earlier claimed that Sardesai along with three other MLAs has agreed to form an alliance with Shiv Sena.

"A new political front is taking shape in Goa, as it was formed in Maharashtra. Soon, you will see some magic in Goa," Raut said.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president &amp; ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. <a href="https://t.co/IBQKsmKmbU">pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1200281560466915329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After Raut's comments, Sardesai said: "What happened in Maharashtra, should be done in Goa too. The Opposition should come together. We met Sanjay Raut. The 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' which was formed in Maharashtra, should extend to Goa too."&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president &amp; ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. <a href="https://t.co/IBQKsmKmbU">pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1200281560466915329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVP) is the name given to the alliance between NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Raut also said that the party intends to form a non-BJP political front in the country. "It will happen across the country. After Maharashtra, it is Goa, then we will go to other states. We want to make a non-BJP political front in this country," Raut added.

It should be noted that Congress won the maximum number of seats in Goa in the Assembly elections in February 2017. But BJP came to power as it was supported by three MLAs each of Goa Forward Party, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and an independent MLA.&nbsp;

Congress had originally claimed 17 seats, while BJP ended up with 13 seats in the Assembly elections. However, 12 Congress MLAs later joined BJP, including 10 that joined in July this year led by Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar.&nbsp;

After 12 Congress detractors joined BJP, Goa Forward Party decided to take back its support from the government as three party leaders were stripped from the cabinet including Sardesai from the post of deputy CM.

Earlier on Thursday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav took oath as Maharashtra CM as the party stitched an alliance with foe-turned-friends NCP and Congress. Uddhav Thackeray's oath came after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis resigned as CM three days after swearing as his party failed to get majority 
support in order to form government in the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

A day after Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too. On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra.

A day after Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too. On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra. Sardesai's statements came after Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut earlier claimed that Sardesai along with three other MLAs has agreed to form an alliance with Shiv Sena. "A new political front is taking shape in Goa, as it was formed in Maharashtra. Soon, you will see some magic in Goa," Raut said. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president & ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2019 × After Raut's comments, Sardesai said: "What happened in Maharashtra, should be done in Goa too. The Opposition should come together. We met Sanjay Raut. The 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' which was formed in Maharashtra, should extend to Goa too." Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president & ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2019 × Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVP) is the name given to the alliance between NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. Raut also said that the party intends to form a non-BJP political front in the country. "It will happen across the country. After Maharashtra, it is Goa, then we will go to other states. We want to make a non-BJP political front in this country," Raut added. It should be noted that Congress won the maximum number of seats in Goa in the Assembly elections in February 2017. But BJP came to power as it was supported by three MLAs each of Goa Forward Party, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and an independent MLA. Congress had originally claimed 17 seats, while BJP ended up with 13 seats in the Assembly elections. However, 12 Congress MLAs later joined BJP, including 10 that joined in July this year led by Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar. After 12 Congress detractors joined BJP, Goa Forward Party decided to take back its support from the government as three party leaders were stripped from the cabinet including Sardesai from the post of deputy CM. Earlier on Thursday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav took oath as Maharashtra CM as the party stitched an alliance with foe-turned-friends NCP and Congress. Uddhav Thackeray's oath came after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis resigned as CM three days after swearing as his party failed to get majority support in order to form government in the state. (with inputs from agencies)

'Maha Vikas Aghadi' in Goa? BJP ally asks Opposition to come together

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-will-be-brought-before-implementation-of-nrc-in-west-bengal-says-amit-shah-253082">Citizenship Amendment Bill </a>and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

"The reason behind the protest is the Citizenship Amendment bill that the union government is proposing to table in the parliament. That bill would definitely violate the Assam accord 1971," former chief minister Tarun Gogoi told reporters here.

"The bill`s motive is against the spirit of the constitution. It is against the right to equality and secularism which are enshrined in the constitution. We have seen mass agitations across the state on this issue but Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is silent on this matter. He has no moral right to continue as the Chief Minister. The BJP government has sacrificed the culture of the state for the sake of power," he added.

Both Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) demanded the cancellation of the question hour and to hold a discussion on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and NRC.

Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami said that Question Hour session could not be called off despite the noisy scene. The Speaker did not cancel the Question Hour and subsequently, the Congress and AIUDF party staged a walkout.

There have been protests in Assam against the proposed Citizenship Amendment Bill as the Centre is going to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">table the bill</a> in the parliament.

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on Citizenship Amendment Bill and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

MLAs of opposition parties staged a walkout from on Thursday, on the first day of the winter session of the Assam Legislative Assembly that began here Thursday and staged a protest demanding cancellation of the question hour and holding a discussion on Citizenship Amendment Bill and National Register of Citizens (NRC). "The reason behind the protest is the Citizenship Amendment bill that the union government is proposing to table in the parliament. That bill would definitely violate the Assam accord 1971," former chief minister Tarun Gogoi told reporters here. "The bill`s motive is against the spirit of the constitution. It is against the right to equality and secularism which are enshrined in the constitution. We have seen mass agitations across the state on this issue but Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is silent on this matter. He has no moral right to continue as the Chief Minister. The BJP government has sacrificed the culture of the state for the sake of power," he added. Both Congress and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) demanded the cancellation of the question hour and to hold a discussion on the Citizenship Amendment Bill and NRC. Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami said that Question Hour session could not be called off despite the noisy scene. The Speaker did not cancel the Question Hour and subsequently, the Congress and AIUDF party staged a walkout. There have been protests in Assam against the proposed Citizenship Amendment Bill as the Centre is going to table the bill in the parliament.

Opposition MLAs stage walkout from Assembly over Citizenship Amendment Bill

Congress interim president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-attacks-bjp-over-shameless-efforts-to-form-the-government-in-maharashtra-264991">Sonia Gandhi</a> is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-invites-pm-modi-for-oath-taking-ceremony-264970">Uddhav Thackeray</a> in Mumbai on Thursday.

On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided."

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday met Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonai-gandhi-manmohan-singh-pay-tribute-to-indira-gandhi-on-birth-anniversary-263061">Manmohan Singh</a> and invited them for the swearing-in ceremony.

"We met Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh as their guidance and blessings are necessary. Now we are returning to Mumbai," Aaditya told media here.

Uddhav Thackeray, Sena chief and the leader of `Maha Vikas Aghadi` led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-ncp-to-get-deputy-cm-portfolio-assembly-speaker-to-be-from-congress-264935">Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress</a> will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm.

Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony.

On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance.

The political development came after BJP leader Devendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Fadnavis submitted his resignation</a> as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on Thursday. On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on Thursday. On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided." Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday met Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh and invited them for the swearing-in ceremony. "We met Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh as their guidance and blessings are necessary. Now we are returning to Mumbai," Aaditya told media here. Uddhav Thackeray, Sena chief and the leader of `Maha Vikas Aghadi` led by Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm. Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony. On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance. The political development came after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Sonia Gandhi unlikely to attend Uddhav Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra.

Congress-NCP-Sena alliance has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Uddhav Thackeray takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/pKaAjqYvWM">pic.twitter.com/pKaAjqYvWM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1200041848582090753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his oath-taking ceremony.

Shiv Sena party sources confirmed the news and said that Thackeray spoke to the Prime Minister over the phone and invited him.

Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony, the ANI report added.&nbsp;

Both Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Sonia Gandhi did not attend the swearing-in ceremony. Other non-BJP regional satraps like MK Stalin and Mamta Banerjee are also absent from the swearing-in ceremony which stands in stark contrast to the way opposition leaders came to see Kumaraswamy's swearing ceremony in Bengaluru in 2017.

The three-party alliance has agreed on a common minimum programme and have agreed to insert the word secular in its preamble.

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra. Congress-NCP-Sena alliance has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi. #WATCH Uddhav Thackeray takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/pKaAjqYvWM — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2019 × The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his oath-taking ceremony. Shiv Sena party sources confirmed the news and said that Thackeray spoke to the Prime Minister over the phone and invited him. Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony, the ANI report added. Both Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Sonia Gandhi did not attend the swearing-in ceremony. Other non-BJP regional satraps like MK Stalin and Mamta Banerjee are also absent from the swearing-in ceremony which stands in stark contrast to the way opposition leaders came to see Kumaraswamy's swearing ceremony in Bengaluru in 2017. The three-party alliance has agreed on a common minimum programme and have agreed to insert the word secular in its preamble.

Uddhav Thackeray sworn in as the chief minister of Maharashtra

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah said here on Thursday that BJP government has "buried Naxalism in Jharkhand 20-foot beneath the ground" and promised to uproot Naxalism completely if returned to power.

"Today Jharkhand is on the path of development. In Palamu people were ravaged by Naxalism which was the biggest hurdle on the path of development. But under the aegis of BJP led government under Chief Minister Raghubar Das, the Naxalism has been buried 20-foot beneath the ground," said Shah while addressing a public rally here on Thursday.

"Recently, 4 police personnel have been martyred in Latehar. I want to say that when BJP government will come back in the state, we will completely uproot the Naxalism from here," he said.

"Where there are disturbance and trouble there can be no development. Development doesn`t come from the bullet but from the ballot," he urged voters to vote for his party.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20. The votes will be counted on December 23.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah said here on Thursday that BJP government has "buried Naxalism in Jharkhand 20-foot beneath the ground" and promised to uproot Naxalism completely if returned to power.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah said here on Thursday that BJP government has "buried Naxalism in Jharkhand 20-foot beneath the ground" and promised to uproot Naxalism completely if returned to power. "Today Jharkhand is on the path of development. In Palamu people were ravaged by Naxalism which was the biggest hurdle on the path of development. But under the aegis of BJP led government under Chief Minister Raghubar Das, the Naxalism has been buried 20-foot beneath the ground," said Shah while addressing a public rally here on Thursday. "Recently, 4 police personnel have been martyred in Latehar. I want to say that when BJP government will come back in the state, we will completely uproot the Naxalism from here," he said. "Where there are disturbance and trouble there can be no development. Development doesn`t come from the bullet but from the ballot," he urged voters to vote for his party. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20. The votes will be counted on December 23.

BJP will completely uproot Naxalism in Jharkhand: Amit Shah

After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-tmc-mla-sabyasachi-dutta-joins-bjp-in-presence-of-amit-shah-253073">Trinamool Congress</a> (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-condemns-pragya-singh-thakurs-reported-reference-to-nathuram-godse-drops-her-from-defence-committee-264994">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> (BJP).

The All India Trinamool Congress party took to its twitter handle and shared a picture featuring Banerjee with mention of her reaction on the poll results.

"West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on TMC winning 1 and currently leading on rest of the 2 seats in the by-elections: This is a victory of people. This is a victory of development. Politics of arrogance will not work. People have rejected the BJP," All India Trinamool Congress tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengalWithDidi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengalWithDidi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> reacts on big 3-0 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengalBypolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengalBypolls</a> win <a href="https://t.co/X0wGSkkYA5">pic.twitter.com/X0wGSkkYA5</a>
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial/status/1199944045465747456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This is the first time we are winning in Kharagpur and Kaliaganj. Minorities, Adivasis, Rajbanshi--everyone has voted for us. Courtesy is the culture of Bengal," All India Trinamool Congress added.

TMC candidate Tapan Deb Singha on Thursday registered a win from Kaliaganj assembly by-election with a margin of over 2,000 votes.

TMC candidates are also leading in Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar seats as per official Election Commission (EC) trends.

Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and Kaliaganj (SC), Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar in West Bengal went to by-elections on November 25.

The Gazette Notification for these polls was issued on October 30 and the last date for filing nominations was November 6.

In West Bengal, these are the first polls after the 2019 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-bill-to-amend-spg-act-264946">Lok Sabha</a> elections in which BJP had won 18 out of the 42 seats.&nbsp;

After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The All India Trinamool Congress party took to its twitter handle and shared a picture featuring Banerjee with mention of her reaction on the poll results. "West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on TMC winning 1 and currently leading on rest of the 2 seats in the by-elections: This is a victory of people. This is a victory of development. Politics of arrogance will not work. People have rejected the BJP," All India Trinamool Congress tweeted. #BengalWithDidi @MamataOfficial reacts on big 3-0 #BengalBypolls win pic.twitter.com/X0wGSkkYA5 — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) November 28, 2019 × "This is the first time we are winning in Kharagpur and Kaliaganj. Minorities, Adivasis, Rajbanshi--everyone has voted for us. Courtesy is the culture of Bengal," All India Trinamool Congress added. TMC candidate Tapan Deb Singha on Thursday registered a win from Kaliaganj assembly by-election with a margin of over 2,000 votes. TMC candidates are also leading in Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar seats as per official Election Commission (EC) trends. Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and Kaliaganj (SC), Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar in West Bengal went to by-elections on November 25. The Gazette Notification for these polls was issued on October 30 and the last date for filing nominations was November 6. In West Bengal, these are the first polls after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in which BJP had won 18 out of the 42 seats.

Politics of arrogance won't work, people have rejected BJP: Mamata on bypoll trends

NCP leader Praful Patel on Wednesday confirmed that the only Deputy Chief Minister in the new Maharashtra government will be from his party while the post of Assembly Speaker will go to the Congress.

"There will be only one Deputy Chief Minister and that will be from the NCP," he said while speaking to reporters after a meeting of Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena MLAs.

"How many ministers take the oath will be decided tonight. One or two MLAs from each party will take oath as ministers. The Speaker has been decided by all three parties. The Speaker will be from the Congress and Deputy Speaker from the NCP," added Patel.

The NCP leader, however, also clarified that "it is not decided yet how many ministers will take the oath with the Chief Minister tomorrow."

Uddhav Thackeray is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on November 28 and form a government led by the Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress in the state.

"As requested today orally, the oath of office and secrecy would be administered to you (Uddhav Thackeray) on Thursday, November 28, 2019, at 18:40 hrs at Shivaji Park, Dadar, Mumbai," the Governor said in a letter on Tuesday.

MLAs of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena had met the Governor and submitted a letter declaring Shiv Sena Chief Udhhav Thackeray as their leader late on Tuesday, following which, Koshyari issued the directives.

On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance. This comes after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".&nbsp;

NCP leader Praful Patel on Wednesday confirmed that the only Deputy Chief Minister in the new Maharashtra government will be from his party while the post of Assembly Speaker will go to the Congress.

NCP leader Praful Patel on Wednesday confirmed that the only Deputy Chief Minister in the new Maharashtra government will be from his party while the post of Assembly Speaker will go to the Congress. "There will be only one Deputy Chief Minister and that will be from the NCP," he said while speaking to reporters after a meeting of Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena MLAs. "How many ministers take the oath will be decided tonight. One or two MLAs from each party will take oath as ministers. The Speaker has been decided by all three parties. The Speaker will be from the Congress and Deputy Speaker from the NCP," added Patel. The NCP leader, however, also clarified that "it is not decided yet how many ministers will take the oath with the Chief Minister tomorrow." Uddhav Thackeray is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on November 28 and form a government led by the Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress in the state. "As requested today orally, the oath of office and secrecy would be administered to you (Uddhav Thackeray) on Thursday, November 28, 2019, at 18:40 hrs at Shivaji Park, Dadar, Mumbai," the Governor said in a letter on Tuesday. MLAs of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena had met the Governor and submitted a letter declaring Shiv Sena Chief Udhhav Thackeray as their leader late on Tuesday, following which, Koshyari issued the directives. On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance. This comes after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Deputy CM to be from NCP, Congress to have Assembly Speaker: Praful Patel

Maharashtra Congress President Balasaheb Thorat said here on Wednesday that no decision has been taken on who will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. 
 
"No decision has been taken on who will be Deputy Chief Minister," said Thorat. 
 
The oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected MLAs began in Maharashtra Assembly in a special session on Wednesday after days of political uncertainty in the state. 
 
The oath is being administered by newly appointed pro-tem speaker Kalidas Kolambkar here at the Raj Bhavan. 
 
Today's session comes a day after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis resigned as Maharashtra Chief Minister merely three days after he took oath in a controversial turn of events. 
 
Yesterday evening, the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress combine met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and staked claim to form the government, following which the Governor announced that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will take oath as the Chief Minister of the state.

Maharashtra Congress President Balasaheb Thorat said here on Wednesday that no decision has been taken on who will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. "No decision has been taken on who will be Deputy Chief Minister," said Thorat.

Maharashtra Congress President Balasaheb Thorat said here on Wednesday that no decision has been taken on who will be the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. "No decision has been taken on who will be Deputy Chief Minister," said Thorat. The oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected MLAs began in Maharashtra Assembly in a special session on Wednesday after days of political uncertainty in the state. The oath is being administered by newly appointed pro-tem speaker Kalidas Kolambkar here at the Raj Bhavan. Today's session comes a day after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis resigned as Maharashtra Chief Minister merely three days after he took oath in a controversial turn of events. Yesterday evening, the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress combine met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and staked claim to form the government, following which the Governor announced that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will take oath as the Chief Minister of the state.

No decision taken on deputy chief minister: Maharashtra Congress leader Thorat

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised to provide compulsory skill education to all students in the state from Class VI onwards.

The BJP, which on Wednesday released its manifesto for the coming Jharkhand Assembly polls, also promised a job for at least one member of every below-poverty-line (BPL) family in the state.

To boost higher literacy in the state, scholarships to support higher education were also promised in the manifesto.

The BJP has also promised to create a digital platform called `Ek Jharkhand` where all civil services related work will be done.

More and more public services will be made available on this platform. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Raghubar Das said, "We have tried to fulfil all the promises we made in 2014. We have strengthened the vigilance department and opened various anti-corruption units in the state to check corruption."

He said the BJP will always stand with the farmers and their issues will be resolved on priority.Union Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Arjun Munda were also present on the occasion.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20. The votes will be counted on December 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised to provide compulsory skill education to all students in the state from Class VI onwards. The BJP, which on Wednesday released its manifesto for the coming Jharkhand Assembly polls, also promised a job for at least one member of every below-poverty-line (BPL) family in the state.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised to provide compulsory skill education to all students in the state from Class VI onwards. The BJP, which on Wednesday released its manifesto for the coming Jharkhand Assembly polls, also promised a job for at least one member of every below-poverty-line (BPL) family in the state. To boost higher literacy in the state, scholarships to support higher education were also promised in the manifesto. The BJP has also promised to create a digital platform called `Ek Jharkhand` where all civil services related work will be done. More and more public services will be made available on this platform. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Raghubar Das said, "We have tried to fulfil all the promises we made in 2014. We have strengthened the vigilance department and opened various anti-corruption units in the state to check corruption." He said the BJP will always stand with the farmers and their issues will be resolved on priority.Union Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Arjun Munda were also present on the occasion. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20. The votes will be counted on December 23.

BJP's Jharkhand manifesto lays emphasis on skill education

Top Court orders floor test in Maharashtra assembly tomorrow to prove majority support. Watch video to know more.

Top Court orders floor test in Maharashtra assembly tomorrow to prove majority support

Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered floor test in the Maharashtra assembly to be held on November 27(Wednesday) before 5 pm.

The proceedings shall be telecast live.&nbsp;

The top court ordered a Pro-tem Speaker to be appointed to conduct the floor test which it said should be&nbsp;completed before 5 pm tomorrow.

"A floor test should be held on November 27 before 5 pm," Justice NV Ramana said while pronouncing the order on the Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP plea against the BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra.

Supreme Court's three-judge bench, headed by Justice NV Ramana and comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Ashok Bhushan, read out the pronouncement of the judgement.

The petitions were filed after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as chief minister for the second consecutive term, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy chief minister on Saturday morning.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance in the Supreme Court asked the apex court to restrain the BJP-led government headed by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis from taking important policy decisions.

On Monday, Kapil Sibal&nbsp;had told the Supreme Court:&nbsp;"What was the national emergency that President rule was revoked at 5.17 am and swearing-in was at 8 am? President Rule was revoked at 5.17 am which means everything happened before 5.17."

He had further said that a floor test must be conducted within 24 hours with videography and a single ballot.

On Monday, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others had visited Raj Bhawan and had given a letter showing the strength of 162 MLAs to the officials at Raj Bhavan.

Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered floor test in the Maharashtra assembly to be held on November 27(Wednesday) before 5 pm. The proceedings shall be telecast live.

Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered floor test in the Maharashtra assembly to be held on November 27(Wednesday) before 5 pm. The proceedings shall be telecast live. The top court ordered a Pro-tem Speaker to be appointed to conduct the floor test which it said should be completed before 5 pm tomorrow. "A floor test should be held on November 27 before 5 pm," Justice NV Ramana said while pronouncing the order on the Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP plea against the BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. Supreme Court's three-judge bench, headed by Justice NV Ramana and comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Ashok Bhushan, read out the pronouncement of the judgement. The petitions were filed after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as chief minister for the second consecutive term, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy chief minister on Saturday morning. On Tuesday, senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance in the Supreme Court asked the apex court to restrain the BJP-led government headed by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis from taking important policy decisions. On Monday, Kapil Sibal had told the Supreme Court: "What was the national emergency that President rule was revoked at 5.17 am and swearing-in was at 8 am? President Rule was revoked at 5.17 am which means everything happened before 5.17." He had further said that a floor test must be conducted within 24 hours with videography and a single ballot. On Monday, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others had visited Raj Bhawan and had given a letter showing the strength of 162 MLAs to the officials at Raj Bhavan.

Supreme Court orders floor test in Maharashtra assembly to be held tomorrow

Maharashtra political turmoil: Top court to pass orders at 10:30 AM today. Watch video to know more.

Maharashtra political turmoil: Top court to pass orders at 10:30 AM today

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">state</a>.

"We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest.

Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision.

Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us".

In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.&nbsp;

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state.

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state. "We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest. Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision. Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us". In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.

Maharashtra: Congress-Sena-NCP will meet governor tomorrow to form government in the state, says Prithviraj Chavan

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-meeting-of-mlas-from-ncp-shiv-sena-congress-called-today-to-elect-leader-264633">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing&nbsp;agreement.&nbsp;

"Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI.

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Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP <a href="https://t.co/n4LPqqlaOo">pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo</a>
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He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-has-given-consent-to-become-maharashtra-chief-minister-sanjay-raut-263954">Uddhav Thackeray </a>to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed.&nbsp;

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Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this <a href="https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI">https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199300514371915776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said.&nbsp;

Earlier today, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Devendra Fadnavis </a>resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly.

In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Maharashtra CM </a>after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra.

The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing agreement. "Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI. Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked Uddhav Thackeray to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed. Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said. Earlier today, Devendra Fadnavis resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly. In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra. The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics: Senior NCP leader

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-be-campaigning-in-jharkhand-looking-forward-to-be-among-people-of-great-state-tweets-pm-modi-264288">prime minister </a>on Monday slammed Congress for its inability to resolve the issue of Ayodhya and Jammu and Kashmir to protect its vote bank in his rally for the upcoming polls in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-polls-prime-minister-modi-likely-to-address-5-to-8-rallies-262619">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>was addressing his first rally in the state in Daltonganj for the upcoming elections in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

"The Congress follows the policy of procrastination so that it can keep collecting votes. The party kept the issue of article 370 pending. We had promised a resolution and we fulfilled it. The Ram Janmabhoomi dispute in Ayodhya had lingered for decades. The Congress could have resolved it, if it so wanted, but it chose to hurt the society, the country to protect its vote bank. See, today the dispute stands resolved," the prime minister said.

The prime minister, in his speech, also spoke on the connection between Lord Rama with tribals (Adivasis). It should be noted that the state of Jharkhand has a significant tribal population.&nbsp;

"The Adivasis had shown the direction to even Lord Rama. When Lord Rama was in Ayodhya, he was called a Prince. When he left Ayodhya for 'Vanvaas' (exile) and returned back after 14 years he was called 'Maryada Purushottam'. This showed that the transformation in Lord Rama took place because, during his exile, he spent time with Adivasis.&nbsp;

The prime minister also asserted to tribals that the BJP is committed to protect their rights: 'Jal, Jungle, Jameen' (water, forest and land)." He also said that under the administration of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a separate ministry was established for the welfare of tribals.

PM Modi also praised the Jharkhand government led by Raghubar Das for tackling the issue of Naxalism in the state. He said that when he first visited Jharkhand in 2014, the state was badly affected by Naxalism and violence because of which the state lagged behind other states on developmental&nbsp;issues.

"But the BJP government changed this. We have been able to eliminate Naxalism because our intent is clear and we are working with honesty," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also accused Congress of using Naxals for political gains, adding that in the past five years, the government is able to eliminate this issue by bringing the disgruntled youth into the mainstream.&nbsp;

Calling the election as a contest between those who 'serve' and those who 'loot', the PM added: The Congress has problems, we have the solutions. They have accusations, we have the report of the work we have done. They have empty promises, we have the proof of development".&nbsp;

PM Modi also said that the party was committed to the five principles of social justice, stability, good governance, prosperity, respect for all and security.&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at former governments of the state, the prime minister said that earlier governments were formed through back door. Alliances were formed in the state by those who were driven by the lust for power and who exploited the resources of the state.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that the Das government worked day and night to end corruption, bring transparency and set up institutional mechanisms.&nbsp;

He also added that the "double-engine" growth in Jharkhand was only possible because, in the Centre and state, BJP government was in power.&nbsp;

"The benefits of double-engine growth are many. There is continuity of development....no political games are played," PM said.

The elections of Jharkhand will be held in five phases beginning from November 30.&nbsp;Daltonganj will vote in the phase.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

The prime minister on Monday slammed Congress for its inability to resolve the issue of Ayodhya and Jammu and Kashmir to protect its vote bank in his rally for the upcoming polls in Jharkhand.

The prime minister on Monday slammed Congress for its inability to resolve the issue of Ayodhya and Jammu and Kashmir to protect its vote bank in his rally for the upcoming polls in Jharkhand. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi was addressing his first rally in the state in Daltonganj for the upcoming elections in Jharkhand. "The Congress follows the policy of procrastination so that it can keep collecting votes. The party kept the issue of article 370 pending. We had promised a resolution and we fulfilled it. The Ram Janmabhoomi dispute in Ayodhya had lingered for decades. The Congress could have resolved it, if it so wanted, but it chose to hurt the society, the country to protect its vote bank. See, today the dispute stands resolved," the prime minister said. The prime minister, in his speech, also spoke on the connection between Lord Rama with tribals (Adivasis). It should be noted that the state of Jharkhand has a significant tribal population. "The Adivasis had shown the direction to even Lord Rama. When Lord Rama was in Ayodhya, he was called a Prince. When he left Ayodhya for 'Vanvaas' (exile) and returned back after 14 years he was called 'Maryada Purushottam'. This showed that the transformation in Lord Rama took place because, during his exile, he spent time with Adivasis. The prime minister also asserted to tribals that the BJP is committed to protect their rights: 'Jal, Jungle, Jameen' (water, forest and land)." He also said that under the administration of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a separate ministry was established for the welfare of tribals. PM Modi also praised the Jharkhand government led by Raghubar Das for tackling the issue of Naxalism in the state. He said that when he first visited Jharkhand in 2014, the state was badly affected by Naxalism and violence because of which the state lagged behind other states on developmental issues. "But the BJP government changed this. We have been able to eliminate Naxalism because our intent is clear and we are working with honesty," Modi said. He also accused Congress of using Naxals for political gains, adding that in the past five years, the government is able to eliminate this issue by bringing the disgruntled youth into the mainstream. Calling the election as a contest between those who 'serve' and those who 'loot', the PM added: The Congress has problems, we have the solutions. They have accusations, we have the report of the work we have done. They have empty promises, we have the proof of development". PM Modi also said that the party was committed to the five principles of social justice, stability, good governance, prosperity, respect for all and security. Taking a jibe at former governments of the state, the prime minister said that earlier governments were formed through back door. Alliances were formed in the state by those who were driven by the lust for power and who exploited the resources of the state. The prime minister said that the Das government worked day and night to end corruption, bring transparency and set up institutional mechanisms. He also added that the "double-engine" growth in Jharkhand was only possible because, in the Centre and state, BJP government was in power. "The benefits of double-engine growth are many. There is continuity of development....no political games are played," PM said. The elections of Jharkhand will be held in five phases beginning from November 30. Daltonganj will vote in the phase. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi slams Congress over Ayodhya, Article 370 issue

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday sanctioned Rs 5,380 crore from the state contingency fund to give relief to farmers affected by unseasonal rain.

"CM @Dev_Fadnavis sanctions another Rs 5380 crores from Maharashtra Contingency Fund to give relief to unseasonal rain-affected farmers," tweeted Chief Ministers Office (CMO) Maharashtra.

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CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> sanctions another ₹5380 crore from Maharashtra Contingency Fund to give relief to unseasonal rain affected farmers. <a href="https://t.co/qLmtN2x2f1">https://t.co/qLmtN2x2f1</a>
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1198940880062697472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Fadnavis also chaired a meeting to discuss the proposed 'Climate Resilience Improvement and flood &amp; drought Management Program'&nbsp;with representatives from the World Bank.

"All technical modalities got discussed in this meeting and CM @Dev_Fadnavis directed to place this proposal for cabinet approval. @WorldBank will spend Rs3500 crores on this project out of which Rs350 crore is for technical assistance," tweeted CMO.

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All technical modalities got discussed in this meeting and CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> directed to place this proposal for cabinet approval.<a href="https://twitter.com/WorldBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WorldBank</a> will spend ₹3500 crore on this project out of which ₹350 crore is for technical assistance.
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1198948764917960704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This program includes diversion of floodwater to drought-prone area maintaining the environmental balance. The discussion also took place on #SmartVillage project for 20 lakh farmers in 10,000 villages for better market opportunities to farmers by connecting to corporate," informed CMO in a subsequent tweet.

At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as the Maharashtra Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy chief minister of the state.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday sanctioned Rs 5,380 crore from the state contingency fund to give relief to farmers affected by unseasonal rain.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday sanctioned Rs 5,380 crore from the state contingency fund to give relief to farmers affected by unseasonal rain. "CM @Dev_Fadnavis sanctions another Rs 5380 crores from Maharashtra Contingency Fund to give relief to unseasonal rain-affected farmers," tweeted Chief Ministers Office (CMO) Maharashtra. CM @Dev_Fadnavis sanctions another ₹5380 crore from Maharashtra Contingency Fund to give relief to unseasonal rain affected farmers. https://t.co/qLmtN2x2f1 — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) November 25, 2019 × Fadnavis also chaired a meeting to discuss the proposed 'Climate Resilience Improvement and flood & drought Management Program' with representatives from the World Bank. "All technical modalities got discussed in this meeting and CM @Dev_Fadnavis directed to place this proposal for cabinet approval. @WorldBank will spend Rs3500 crores on this project out of which Rs350 crore is for technical assistance," tweeted CMO. All technical modalities got discussed in this meeting and CM @Dev_Fadnavis directed to place this proposal for cabinet approval.@WorldBank will spend ₹3500 crore on this project out of which ₹350 crore is for technical assistance. — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) November 25, 2019 × "This program includes diversion of floodwater to drought-prone area maintaining the environmental balance. The discussion also took place on #SmartVillage project for 20 lakh farmers in 10,000 villages for better market opportunities to farmers by connecting to corporate," informed CMO in a subsequent tweet. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as the Maharashtra Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy chief minister of the state.

Devendra Fadnavis sanctions Rs 5,380 crores for rain-affected farmers

The MLAs of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-leads-party-protest-in-parliament-premises-over-maharashtra-government-formation-264311">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel.

"I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray and Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP", said the MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP, at Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, where they are 
lodged to a avoid horse-trading.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Mumbai: Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress MLAs assembled at Hotel Hyatt take a pledge, "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray &amp; Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP". <a href="https://t.co/CV8VhOmKl1">pic.twitter.com/CV8VhOmKl1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198977528477736960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior leaders of three parties were also present at the hotel including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, his son Aaditya Thackeray, Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others submitted a letter to the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari which mentioned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weve-given-letter-citing-support-of-162-mlas-to-maharashtra-governor-eknath-shinde-264362">support of 162 MLAs</a>. Senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties. Senior Shiv Sena Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties at the hotel.

A majority of 145 MLAs are required to form government in Maharashtra.

The Supreme Court, on Monday, reserved its order, on the joint petition filed by Sena, Congress and NCP against the formation of BJP government in Maharashtra. &nbsp;

In a surprising development, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Devendra Fadnavis </a>took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar on wee hours on Saturday. Ajit was sworn in as deputy CM. Before the oath-swearing ceremony, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were on the verge of finalising 
their power-sharing deal in order to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

NCP chief has denied any deal with BJP as the party stripped Ajit from the post of party's legislative leader. However, Ajit has reiterated that he will not leave NCP. NCP has repeatedly said that it will form the government with Sena and Congress.

The BJP-Shiv Sena fought the Assembly election together but the long-time allies had a fallout over the post of chief ministership after which Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena started working on forming an alliance.&nbsp;

In the Assembly elections results announced on Oct 24, BJP had won the maximum number of seats (105). Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

The MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel.

The MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel. "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray and Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP", said the MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP, at Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, where they are lodged to a avoid horse-trading. #WATCH Mumbai: Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress MLAs assembled at Hotel Hyatt take a pledge, "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray & Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP". pic.twitter.com/CV8VhOmKl1 — ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2019 × Senior leaders of three parties were also present at the hotel including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, his son Aaditya Thackeray, Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar. Earlier in the day, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others submitted a letter to the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari which mentioned the support of 162 MLAs. Senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties. Senior Shiv Sena Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties at the hotel. A majority of 145 MLAs are required to form government in Maharashtra. The Supreme Court, on Monday, reserved its order, on the joint petition filed by Sena, Congress and NCP against the formation of BJP government in Maharashtra. In a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar on wee hours on Saturday. Ajit was sworn in as deputy CM. Before the oath-swearing ceremony, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were on the verge of finalising their power-sharing deal in order to form government in Maharashtra. NCP chief has denied any deal with BJP as the party stripped Ajit from the post of party's legislative leader. However, Ajit has reiterated that he will not leave NCP. NCP has repeatedly said that it will form the government with Sena and Congress. The BJP-Shiv Sena fought the Assembly election together but the long-time allies had a fallout over the post of chief ministership after which Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena started working on forming an alliance. In the Assembly elections results announced on Oct 24, BJP had won the maximum number of seats (105). Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

'We will not do anything to benefit BJP,' MLAs pledge to be honest to Sena-NCP-Congress alliance

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

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Maharashtra Floor Test: Apex Court to pass order today at 10.30 AM

If there is one politician in India who is a living testimony to what erstwhile "Iron Lady" and former Prime Minister of UK, Thatcher said, it has to be Home Minister and BJP's National President, Amit Shah, who has given invincibility and will power a whole new dimension.

Shah has earned the enviable epithet of being named the new-age Chanakya, after the prolific scholar, statesman, strategist, philosopher, economist and advisor to the Mauryan Empire in 4th Century B.C., who has, till date, remained an enigmatically inspirational character.

Shah’s stellar and well-earned rise to national prominence as the Union Home Minister in 2019, is likewise, a story of sheer grit, determination, excruciating hard-work, an acutely keen understanding of India’s socio-political landscape, and an in-depth understanding of the regional equations at play, across the length and breadth of India.

The National Register of Citizens (NRC), which aims to identify illegal immigrants, primarily from Bangladesh, who entered Assam and settled there after March 25th 1971, and have them deported back to their native country, is yet another masterstroke from Amit Shah,who has said in Parliament that people whose names are missing from the NRC can approach tribunals formed at the tehsil level.

The Assam government will provide financial help to those who don't have the money to file pleas, Shah added, deftly putting to rest contentious issues pertaining to the NRC exercise. Explaining the nuances between NRC and the Citizenship Amendment Bill like only he can and, stating that NRC which will be a pan-India exercise, is primarily about stopping the malaise of infiltrators and illegal immigrants, on the floor of the Parliament, is part of Shah's broader vision of rehabilitating persecuted Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Christian, Parsi and Sikh minorities, among other things and, rightfully so.

Among the possible changes in the new Citizenship Amendment Bill which lapsed after the dissolution of the last Lok Sabha, include a clear categorisation of those who are "illegal immigrants" and those who took shelter in India after facing gross religious persecution in the neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Due to recently found violations of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card by a British-born Hinduphobic writer, Aatish Ali Taseer, there is a possibility of incorporation of certain provisions in the new draft, so that such rampant abuse and misuse could be detected and action taken, right from the word go.

Going a little back in time, success in Uttar Pradesh in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections apart, under Amit Shah’s indomitable leadership, the BJP continued its streak of successes in legislative assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Jharkhand and Assam in 2016, including a landslide victory in state elections in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, not to forget storming to power in Gujarat for the sixth time in a row, amidst huge anti-incumbency.

A strong debut in Manipur for the BJP and the spectacular victory in Tripura in 2018, where the BJP dislodged an utterly incompetent Leftist (CPI-M) government which had ruled Tripura for over two decades and still done virtually nothing to uplift people from the morass of poverty, are ringing testimonies of how Amit Shah ensured BJP's ascent in the North-East, completely annihilating the Congress, which incidentally, by December 2018, had been electorally wiped out of the eight beautiful North-Eastern states, in totality.

Chanakya’s work ethic has always been about getting his hands “soiled on the shop floor”, as management gurus would put it, rather than arm-chair steering. It is this passionate, personal involvement, right up to the booth and panna-pramukh levels that has catapulted Amit Shah into being amongst India’s finest master political strategists, where the zeal to win is based on the strengths of the BJP, and not on the weaknesses of the opposition, which has, in any case, fumbled and faltered, sans any cohesive development agenda or grassroots organisational structure, besides the added ignominy of being embattled with a blinkered vision, marred by an unhealthy Modi-phobia.

Shah’s "Chanakya-Niti" is about putting into practice what Chanakya preached. Chanakya ended the concept of King as demi-god and preached that an effective ruler is only one who follows the constitution or the legal hand-book. Having risen up the ranks by the dint of his patience, intellect and political acumen, it has not come as a surprise, therefore, that Amit Shah has always had strong reservations about the “Parivarwad” culture or dynastic politics, abetted and nurtured by the Congress establishment.

Chanakya was of the view that if the king has only one child, who is not mature enough to rule, the reins of the state should then be passed on to someone from outside, to someone who is capable of it. Shah, by reinforcing what Chanakya said, brilliantly shifted the political narrative to dynastic politics, something which a left-leaning media had always shied to take note of in its unabashed and misplaced loyalty towards the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty.

Narendra Modi came and re-wrote India’s political narrative with his no-nonsense style, and the irrepressible Amit Shah, in turn, ensured the invincibility of the BJP in election after election, with a persistence that is rare.To the Modi-Shah duo, goes the credit of correcting a historical Nehruvian blunder, by revoking Article 370.Amit Shah realised that the horrific Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan on 14th February 2019, is one more reason why Article 35-A needed to be abrogated unconditionally. Terrorism, promoted and abetted by Pakistan in the Kashmir valley, is no longer about separatism or secessionism, but about the Islamic theology of “Ummah”, which is synonymous with Ummat-al-Islam. In simpler terms, it basically means, the problem of terrorism in Kashmir is part of a larger game-plan by radical Islamists to establish an Islamic Caliphate in J&amp;K, &nbsp;under the guise of “Jihad”.

“Ummah” is the desire by radicalised terror elements to establish a supranational community of Islamists in the Kashmir valley, under the garb of uniting people with common ancestry, history or geography.

Amit Shah, the modern-day Sardar Patel, whose political genius has never been in doubt, has shown once again, why courage of conviction, is what it takes to ensure, justice, social, economic and political, is delivered to those who need it most, at a time when it matters most! "Is Desh Mein Do Vidhan, Do Pradhan aur Do Nishan, nahin challenge," said Syama Prasad Mukherjee.

66 years after his death in 1953, Syama Prasad must be finally smiling from wherever he is, as his long-cherished dream of "One Nation, One Union, One Constitution, One Prime Minister and One Flag," finally came true, in its truest sense, on 5th August 2019, thanks to Amit Shah.

In what is likely to be a new beginning for India's fight against terrorism, if there is one more measure which makes Amit Shah, India's new age "Loh Purush" it is the passage in the parliament, of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment (UAPA) Bill, in the recently concluded monsoon session.

The bill is a cornerstone of the Modi government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. The objective of the new amendments is to facilitate speedy investigation and prosecution in terror-related offences. The most important part is, allowing an individual to be designated as a terrorist, a measure that is in line with the global practices.

Under the law, personal/financial information of an individual designated as terrorist, can be shared with various Western agencies. It also gives power to officers of the rank of Inspector of NIA, to investigate the offences under chapter IV and Chapter VI. The bill also seeks to empower NIA to conduct raids anywhere without the relevant state government's prior permission.

Besides designating an individual as a terrorist, the bill empowers the NIA to grant approval to seize/attach property when the case is being probed.

To allay fears about misuse of the law, the home ministry has said that an individual designated as terrorist can appeal to the Home Secretary, who will have to dispose of the appeal within 45 days.The Centre will constitute a review committee under the act. An implicated individual can appeal against the inclusion of his/her name and seek a hearing before the committee.

If not satisfied with the Home Secretary&amp;#39;s decision, the individual in question can move the committee headed by a sitting/retired judge of a high court and comprising at least two retired secretaries of the central government.

Home Minister, Amit Shah, India's new age "Loh Purush" has clarified that the new law would be used "sparsely" — for example only in such cases as dreaded militants like Yasin Bhatkal and Masood Azhar, to name a few.

According to Home Ministry data, in India, in the last 15 years, only one outfit, "Deendar Anjuman" appealed against the government's decision to ban it. To put things in perspective, as many as 42 organisations that had been declared illegal during the period under consideration, did not appeal. The law will also prevent terror masterminds from setting up a new group after their previous outfit is outlawed.

The provisions of the law are similar to a UN policy used by the Security Council to apply pressure on a state or entity to comply with the objectives set by the UN without resorting to the use of force. Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 mastermind, and JeM chief Masood Azhar could be among the first individuals to be designated as terrorists under the law.

Both of them have already been designated "global terrorists" by the US, the UN and the EU. These type of anti-terror laws are already there in such countries as US, China, Israel and the EU. It, therefore, goes entirely to Amit Shah's iron will, that he could bring in the UAPA, which will go down as a watershed bill in curbing terror on Indian soil. Sardar Patel integrated more than 550 princely States into the Indian Union.

Amit Shah, as Home Minister, has ensured, that the integration exercise which was embarked upon, over 70 years back, has no room for any ambiguity whatsoever. That India will not cede an inch of its territory or sovereignty, is a message that has gone out loud and clear, by India's new age "Loh Purush". 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/report-amit-shah-india-s-new-age-loh-purush-2803194">original article</a>) 
&nbsp; 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

If there is one politician in India who is a living testimony to what erstwhile "Iron Lady" and former Prime Minister of UK, Thatcher said, it has to be Home Minister and BJP's National President, Amit Shah, who has given invincibility and will power a whole new dimension.

If there is one politician in India who is a living testimony to what erstwhile "Iron Lady" and former Prime Minister of UK, Thatcher said, it has to be Home Minister and BJP's National President, Amit Shah, who has given invincibility and will power a whole new dimension. Shah has earned the enviable epithet of being named the new-age Chanakya, after the prolific scholar, statesman, strategist, philosopher, economist and advisor to the Mauryan Empire in 4th Century B.C., who has, till date, remained an enigmatically inspirational character. Shah’s stellar and well-earned rise to national prominence as the Union Home Minister in 2019, is likewise, a story of sheer grit, determination, excruciating hard-work, an acutely keen understanding of India’s socio-political landscape, and an in-depth understanding of the regional equations at play, across the length and breadth of India. The National Register of Citizens (NRC), which aims to identify illegal immigrants, primarily from Bangladesh, who entered Assam and settled there after March 25th 1971, and have them deported back to their native country, is yet another masterstroke from Amit Shah,who has said in Parliament that people whose names are missing from the NRC can approach tribunals formed at the tehsil level. The Assam government will provide financial help to those who don't have the money to file pleas, Shah added, deftly putting to rest contentious issues pertaining to the NRC exercise. Explaining the nuances between NRC and the Citizenship Amendment Bill like only he can and, stating that NRC which will be a pan-India exercise, is primarily about stopping the malaise of infiltrators and illegal immigrants, on the floor of the Parliament, is part of Shah's broader vision of rehabilitating persecuted Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Christian, Parsi and Sikh minorities, among other things and, rightfully so. Among the possible changes in the new Citizenship Amendment Bill which lapsed after the dissolution of the last Lok Sabha, include a clear categorisation of those who are "illegal immigrants" and those who took shelter in India after facing gross religious persecution in the neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Due to recently found violations of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card by a British-born Hinduphobic writer, Aatish Ali Taseer, there is a possibility of incorporation of certain provisions in the new draft, so that such rampant abuse and misuse could be detected and action taken, right from the word go. Going a little back in time, success in Uttar Pradesh in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections apart, under Amit Shah’s indomitable leadership, the BJP continued its streak of successes in legislative assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand and Assam in 2016, including a landslide victory in state elections in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, not to forget storming to power in Gujarat for the sixth time in a row, amidst huge anti-incumbency. A strong debut in Manipur for the BJP and the spectacular victory in Tripura in 2018, where the BJP dislodged an utterly incompetent Leftist (CPI-M) government which had ruled Tripura for over two decades and still done virtually nothing to uplift people from the morass of poverty, are ringing testimonies of how Amit Shah ensured BJP's ascent in the North-East, completely annihilating the Congress, which incidentally, by December 2018, had been electorally wiped out of the eight beautiful North-Eastern states, in totality. Chanakya’s work ethic has always been about getting his hands “soiled on the shop floor”, as management gurus would put it, rather than arm-chair steering. It is this passionate, personal involvement, right up to the booth and panna-pramukh levels that has catapulted Amit Shah into being amongst India’s finest master political strategists, where the zeal to win is based on the strengths of the BJP, and not on the weaknesses of the opposition, which has, in any case, fumbled and faltered, sans any cohesive development agenda or grassroots organisational structure, besides the added ignominy of being embattled with a blinkered vision, marred by an unhealthy Modi-phobia. Shah’s "Chanakya-Niti" is about putting into practice what Chanakya preached. Chanakya ended the concept of King as demi-god and preached that an effective ruler is only one who follows the constitution or the legal hand-book. Having risen up the ranks by the dint of his patience, intellect and political acumen, it has not come as a surprise, therefore, that Amit Shah has always had strong reservations about the “Parivarwad” culture or dynastic politics, abetted and nurtured by the Congress establishment. Chanakya was of the view that if the king has only one child, who is not mature enough to rule, the reins of the state should then be passed on to someone from outside, to someone who is capable of it. Shah, by reinforcing what Chanakya said, brilliantly shifted the political narrative to dynastic politics, something which a left-leaning media had always shied to take note of in its unabashed and misplaced loyalty towards the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty. Narendra Modi came and re-wrote India’s political narrative with his no-nonsense style, and the irrepressible Amit Shah, in turn, ensured the invincibility of the BJP in election after election, with a persistence that is rare.To the Modi-Shah duo, goes the credit of correcting a historical Nehruvian blunder, by revoking Article 370.Amit Shah realised that the horrific Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan on 14th February 2019, is one more reason why Article 35-A needed to be abrogated unconditionally. Terrorism, promoted and abetted by Pakistan in the Kashmir valley, is no longer about separatism or secessionism, but about the Islamic theology of “Ummah”, which is synonymous with Ummat-al-Islam. In simpler terms, it basically means, the problem of terrorism in Kashmir is part of a larger game-plan by radical Islamists to establish an Islamic Caliphate in J&K, under the guise of “Jihad”. “Ummah” is the desire by radicalised terror elements to establish a supranational community of Islamists in the Kashmir valley, under the garb of uniting people with common ancestry, history or geography. Amit Shah, the modern-day Sardar Patel, whose political genius has never been in doubt, has shown once again, why courage of conviction, is what it takes to ensure, justice, social, economic and political, is delivered to those who need it most, at a time when it matters most! "Is Desh Mein Do Vidhan, Do Pradhan aur Do Nishan, nahin challenge," said Syama Prasad Mukherjee. 66 years after his death in 1953, Syama Prasad must be finally smiling from wherever he is, as his long-cherished dream of "One Nation, One Union, One Constitution, One Prime Minister and One Flag," finally came true, in its truest sense, on 5th August 2019, thanks to Amit Shah. In what is likely to be a new beginning for India's fight against terrorism, if there is one more measure which makes Amit Shah, India's new age "Loh Purush" it is the passage in the parliament, of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment (UAPA) Bill, in the recently concluded monsoon session. The bill is a cornerstone of the Modi government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. The objective of the new amendments is to facilitate speedy investigation and prosecution in terror-related offences. The most important part is, allowing an individual to be designated as a terrorist, a measure that is in line with the global practices. Under the law, personal/financial information of an individual designated as terrorist, can be shared with various Western agencies. It also gives power to officers of the rank of Inspector of NIA, to investigate the offences under chapter IV and Chapter VI. The bill also seeks to empower NIA to conduct raids anywhere without the relevant state government's prior permission. Besides designating an individual as a terrorist, the bill empowers the NIA to grant approval to seize/attach property when the case is being probed. To allay fears about misuse of the law, the home ministry has said that an individual designated as terrorist can appeal to the Home Secretary, who will have to dispose of the appeal within 45 days.The Centre will constitute a review committee under the act. An implicated individual can appeal against the inclusion of his/her name and seek a hearing before the committee. If not satisfied with the Home Secretary&#39;s decision, the individual in question can move the committee headed by a sitting/retired judge of a high court and comprising at least two retired secretaries of the central government. Home Minister, Amit Shah, India's new age "Loh Purush" has clarified that the new law would be used "sparsely" — for example only in such cases as dreaded militants like Yasin Bhatkal and Masood Azhar, to name a few. According to Home Ministry data, in India, in the last 15 years, only one outfit, "Deendar Anjuman" appealed against the government's decision to ban it. To put things in perspective, as many as 42 organisations that had been declared illegal during the period under consideration, did not appeal. The law will also prevent terror masterminds from setting up a new group after their previous outfit is outlawed. The provisions of the law are similar to a UN policy used by the Security Council to apply pressure on a state or entity to comply with the objectives set by the UN without resorting to the use of force. Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 mastermind, and JeM chief Masood Azhar could be among the first individuals to be designated as terrorists under the law. Both of them have already been designated "global terrorists" by the US, the UN and the EU. These type of anti-terror laws are already there in such countries as US, China, Israel and the EU. It, therefore, goes entirely to Amit Shah's iron will, that he could bring in the UAPA, which will go down as a watershed bill in curbing terror on Indian soil. Sardar Patel integrated more than 550 princely States into the Indian Union. Amit Shah, as Home Minister, has ensured, that the integration exercise which was embarked upon, over 70 years back, has no room for any ambiguity whatsoever. That India will not cede an inch of its territory or sovereignty, is a message that has gone out loud and clear, by India's new age "Loh Purush". (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Amit Shah — India's new age 'Loh Purush'

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra.

The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-accuses-bjp-of-murdering-democracy-in-maharashtra-264335">Congress</a>, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies.

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Youth Congress leaders protest against BJP's govt formation in Maharashtra

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