Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months.

In the first episode of&nbsp;'Mann ki Baat'&nbsp;in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'. He also said that he missed his family of 130 crore people.

He also reminisced about his Kedarnath visit and rued the politicisation of it.

"I want to tell you that perhaps in that solitary cave, I got an opportunity to fill the vacuum caused due to the long gap of Mann Ki Baat. I undertook Kedarnath journey to meet my inner self, " PM Modi said, adding,&nbsp;"Some people politicised my visit."

PM Modi also said hailed recently held 17th Lok Sabha elections and said, "It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world."

"In the 2019 General elections, India witnessed 61 crore voters exercising their franchise. It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world. In a remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, just for one voter, a booth was set up."&nbsp;

He also&nbsp;thanked voters for the landslide victory and said the entire credit goes to the people who helped him in the reelection.

PM Modi also addressed the water scarcity which has gripped many parts of the country and urged people to raise awareness on water conservation and its methods.

"Water crisis hits many parts of the nation every year. You will be surprised that only 8% of the rainwater in the whole year is harvested in our country," PM Modi said, adding, "With the significance of water in mind, a new&nbsp;Jalashakti ministry has been established in the country. This will allow quicker decision-making on all water issues."

&nbsp;"I have three requests&nbsp;to all, including eminent people from all walks of life to create awareness on water conservation. Share information on traditional methods of water conservation. If you know about any individuals or NGOs working on water, do share about them."

The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year.

Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers.

The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months. In the first episode of 'Mann ki Baat' in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months. In the first episode of 'Mann ki Baat' in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'. He also said that he missed his family of 130 crore people. He also reminisced about his Kedarnath visit and rued the politicisation of it. "I want to tell you that perhaps in that solitary cave, I got an opportunity to fill the vacuum caused due to the long gap of Mann Ki Baat. I undertook Kedarnath journey to meet my inner self, " PM Modi said, adding, "Some people politicised my visit." PM Modi also said hailed recently held 17th Lok Sabha elections and said, "It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world." "In the 2019 General elections, India witnessed 61 crore voters exercising their franchise. It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world. In a remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, just for one voter, a booth was set up." He also thanked voters for the landslide victory and said the entire credit goes to the people who helped him in the reelection. PM Modi also addressed the water scarcity which has gripped many parts of the country and urged people to raise awareness on water conservation and its methods. "Water crisis hits many parts of the nation every year. You will be surprised that only 8% of the rainwater in the whole year is harvested in our country," PM Modi said, adding, "With the significance of water in mind, a new Jalashakti ministry has been established in the country. This will allow quicker decision-making on all water issues." "I have three requests to all, including eminent people from all walks of life to create awareness on water conservation. Share information on traditional methods of water conservation. If you know about any individuals or NGOs working on water, do share about them." The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year. Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers. The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

PM Narendra discusses Kedarnath visit, water scarcity in first Mann Ki Baat in second term

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-parliamentary-party-meet-postponed-due-to-rajasthan-unit-chiefs-death-230166">BJP Parliamentary Party meeting</a> is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2.

A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB).

All BJP Members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are requested to attend the meeting in time."

This meeting is taking place ahead of the Union Budget presentation on July 5.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary meeting was scheduled for June 25. It was postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS.

Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2. A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB).

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2. A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB). All BJP Members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are requested to attend the meeting in time." This meeting is taking place ahead of the Union Budget presentation on July 5. Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary meeting was scheduled for June 25. It was postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini. The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS. Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting to be held on July 2

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

A vacation bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice B R Gavai told the counsel appearing for Sehrawat that the lawmaker can raise his grievances during the proceedings on the disqualification notice before the Assembly Speaker.

After the court said it was not inclined to hear the plea, Sehrawat's counsel withdrew the petition.

Sehrawat, an MLA from Bijwasan Assembly segment, had claimed that he has still not taken the primary membership of the BJP and the disqualification notice issued to him was arbitrary and illegal.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A vacation bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice B R Gavai told the counsel appearing for Sehrawat that the lawmaker can raise his grievances during the proceedings on the disqualification notice before the Assembly Speaker. After the court said it was not inclined to hear the plea, Sehrawat's counsel withdrew the petition. Sehrawat, an MLA from Bijwasan Assembly segment, had claimed that he has still not taken the primary membership of the BJP and the disqualification notice issued to him was arbitrary and illegal.

Supreme Court refuses to entertain AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat's plea challenging disqualification notice

India Watch, 28th June 2019

In this segment of India Watch, know contribution of PV Narasimha Rao on his 98th anniversary. WION is in conversation with NV Subhash, who is grandson of PV Narasimha Rao. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Acknowledging the contribution of PV Narasimha Rao

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Article 370 is only a temporary provision and not a permanent one in the Lok Sabha. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Amit Shah's big message on Article 370

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday moved a statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha to extend President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of six months. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: President's rule to be extended in J&K

Watch India Watch, 26th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 26th June 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the second day in a row, kept the focus snugly on the Congress, berating it over issues ranging from voting machines, Citizens' list in Assam and the passing of bills in Rajya Sabha. Amid the crisis in the Congress over Rahul Gandhi's resignation from the party chief's post, he even mocked it over its handling of victory and defeat.

India Watch: PM Modi addresses Rajya Sabha

Watch India Watch, 25th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 25th June 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first speech in Parliament after his party returned to power with a massive majority, was as much about Congress roasting as showcasing the achievements of his government.

India Watch: PM Modi addresses the lower house

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

The new date for the meeting which would be headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been announced yet.

The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday.

Ruling BJP's first parliamentary party meeting during the ongoing session and after JP Nadda's election as the working president was scheduled to take place here in the morning.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS.

Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

"The passing away of Shri Madanlal Saini Ji is a major loss for the BJP family. He contributed to strengthening the Party in Rajasthan. He was widely respected for his congenial nature and community service efforts. My thoughts are with his family and supporters. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted.

Calling him a "jan sevak", Shah said Saini played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan."I have received the sad news of death of BJP's senior leader and Rajasthan party chief Shri Madan Lal Saini ji. He served the party at different posts. He was a true 'jan sevak'&nbsp;who devoted his life for party and society. He played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan. Saini`s demise is an irreparable loss for BJP family. I offer my condolences and pray for his soul," the Home Minister tweeted.

Nadda and Rajnath Singh also offered condolences to the bereaved family. "I am shocked by the information of the death of BJP Rajasthan chief and my fellow in Rajya Sabha Shri Madan Lal Saini. This is irreparable damage to the Bharatiya Janata Party family. Madan Lal Saini devoted his whole life to serve the society. God bless his virtuous soul," Nadda tweeted.

Taking to Twitter, Rajnath Singh said, "I am shocked at the passing away of Rajasthan BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Madan Lal Sainiji. Madan ji was distinguished as a skilled organiser and a simple person. My condolences to the bereaved family. May God give them the power to endure this suffering."

&nbsp;

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini. The new date for the meeting which would be headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been announced yet. The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday. Ruling BJP's first parliamentary party meeting during the ongoing session and after JP Nadda's election as the working president was scheduled to take place here in the morning. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS. Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death. "The passing away of Shri Madanlal Saini Ji is a major loss for the BJP family. He contributed to strengthening the Party in Rajasthan. He was widely respected for his congenial nature and community service efforts. My thoughts are with his family and supporters. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted. Calling him a "jan sevak", Shah said Saini played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan."I have received the sad news of death of BJP's senior leader and Rajasthan party chief Shri Madan Lal Saini ji. He served the party at different posts. He was a true 'jan sevak' who devoted his life for party and society. He played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan. Saini`s demise is an irreparable loss for BJP family. I offer my condolences and pray for his soul," the Home Minister tweeted. Nadda and Rajnath Singh also offered condolences to the bereaved family. "I am shocked by the information of the death of BJP Rajasthan chief and my fellow in Rajya Sabha Shri Madan Lal Saini. This is irreparable damage to the Bharatiya Janata Party family. Madan Lal Saini devoted his whole life to serve the society. God bless his virtuous soul," Nadda tweeted. Taking to Twitter, Rajnath Singh said, "I am shocked at the passing away of Rajasthan BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Madan Lal Sainiji. Madan ji was distinguished as a skilled organiser and a simple person. My condolences to the bereaved family. May God give them the power to endure this suffering."

BJP parliamentary party meet postponed due to Rajasthan unit chief's death

PM Modi while addressing parliament today says that people of India are satisfied with the work of the NDA government. Moreover, he also credits opposition for conducting healthy debates. 'Our government follows and will follow a path of development' he added.

Parliament live: 'People of India are satisfied with NDA government' says PM Modi

The principle reason why Indian liberalism has turned on its head is because of dynasties which have spawned all across political parties. Dynasties are undemocratic in nature, and hence, the functioning of the political parties remain undemocratic.

Social mobility lies at the core of liberal values. Liberalism was a movement against medieval institutions which stood for the politics of birth and entitlement. The aristocracy wanted to perpetuate the old order which liberal values challenged.

Liberal order fought for mobility in the society which freed labour and mind from traditional structures of social and political hierarchies. Indian democratic politics started with liberal politics at helms of the affair. The conservatives in Indian politics immediately after 1947 were a minority and did not enjoy social and cultural gravitas.

70 years down the line, every party in India claiming itself to be liberal has turned dynastic and conservative. BJP seems to be the only party holding ground to rampant dynasticism which exists in Indian politics.

The irony is that BJP does not call itself liberal but demonstrates the fastest political mobility within the organisation. It is not as if families are absent in RSS-BJP. They do exist, but power transition does not take place within one family. BJP is not hostage to one family. The party firmly rests on the principle of ideology than family loyalty. The vote catching job is not rested on the shoulder of the charism of a clan but on the organisation which has the build in capacity to outlast any individual. It is for this reason that BJP was able to make a transition from Vajpayee to Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The other big reason why parties which claim to be liberal became highly elitist and short on mobility because successive generations became more and more westernised but not the party. It created a social circuit within the all-powerful political spectrum which was distinct and different from the culture and ideology of the organisation.

For example, Rajiv Gandhi in 1980s wanted to change the party with his friends. Rahul Gandhi also fought with the top Congress brass with little help from his friends. Other regional parties have witnessed this development with various degrees. Such social circuits operate in most of the parties and claim to hold liberal values. This circle involves people related to the first family of a party in a personal way where loyalty to the family members is ranked over and above the organisation.

If one looks at BJP-RSS Parivar, the ideology of the parent outfit and health of the organisation is given primacy over the individual. Moreover, frontal organisations of RSS and BJP became a conduit to mainframe which is not the case with many other parties. Many leaders of these two subsets constitute the top rung of BJP now. Today, Congress cannot boost such mobility. The regional parties run by dynasts cannot promise mobility.

Mobility means that every post in a political party should be open to contest. Those parties which band around a family do not have the right to exist in modern societies because they only end up perpetuating a feudal system. Such parties should wither away making space for healthier options to come up. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

The principle reason why Indian liberalism has turned on its head is because of dynasties which have spawned all across political parties. Dynasties are undemocratic in nature, and hence, the functioning of the political parties remain undemocratic.

The principle reason why Indian liberalism has turned on its head is because of dynasties which have spawned all across political parties. Dynasties are undemocratic in nature, and hence, the functioning of the political parties remain undemocratic. Social mobility lies at the core of liberal values. Liberalism was a movement against medieval institutions which stood for the politics of birth and entitlement. The aristocracy wanted to perpetuate the old order which liberal values challenged. Liberal order fought for mobility in the society which freed labour and mind from traditional structures of social and political hierarchies. Indian democratic politics started with liberal politics at helms of the affair. The conservatives in Indian politics immediately after 1947 were a minority and did not enjoy social and cultural gravitas. 70 years down the line, every party in India claiming itself to be liberal has turned dynastic and conservative. BJP seems to be the only party holding ground to rampant dynasticism which exists in Indian politics. The irony is that BJP does not call itself liberal but demonstrates the fastest political mobility within the organisation. It is not as if families are absent in RSS-BJP. They do exist, but power transition does not take place within one family. BJP is not hostage to one family. The party firmly rests on the principle of ideology than family loyalty. The vote catching job is not rested on the shoulder of the charism of a clan but on the organisation which has the build in capacity to outlast any individual. It is for this reason that BJP was able to make a transition from Vajpayee to Narendra Modi. The other big reason why parties which claim to be liberal became highly elitist and short on mobility because successive generations became more and more westernised but not the party. It created a social circuit within the all-powerful political spectrum which was distinct and different from the culture and ideology of the organisation. For example, Rajiv Gandhi in 1980s wanted to change the party with his friends. Rahul Gandhi also fought with the top Congress brass with little help from his friends. Other regional parties have witnessed this development with various degrees. Such social circuits operate in most of the parties and claim to hold liberal values. This circle involves people related to the first family of a party in a personal way where loyalty to the family members is ranked over and above the organisation. If one looks at BJP-RSS Parivar, the ideology of the parent outfit and health of the organisation is given primacy over the individual. Moreover, frontal organisations of RSS and BJP became a conduit to mainframe which is not the case with many other parties. Many leaders of these two subsets constitute the top rung of BJP now. Today, Congress cannot boost such mobility. The regional parties run by dynasts cannot promise mobility. Mobility means that every post in a political party should be open to contest. Those parties which band around a family do not have the right to exist in modern societies because they only end up perpetuating a feudal system. Such parties should wither away making space for healthier options to come up. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Why liberal political parties run by dynasts are a gated community

On the eve of the 2019 Lok Sabha results, the New York Times published an article titled “How Narendra Modi Seduced India with Envy and Hate”. A little before the election, Time magazine featured NaMo on their cover and in bold letters labelled him as the “Divider in Chief”. Kapil Komireddi’s analysis of the Indian political landscape for The Guardian went on to call Indians “intellectually vacant” and the country a “make believe land of fudge and fakery”.&nbsp;

These scathing remarks from the international community crystallised national support for Modi and May 23, 2019 put the debate to rest, telling the world what India really is – an exemplary democracy that does not seek validation from a few writers in Manhattan or London to create the ideological roadmap for our future.&nbsp;

However, it is imperative to discuss a political narrative that goes beyond cow lynchings and hate speech, as some leading Western publications have been trying to propagate. Modi’s victory is unfazed by this empty outrage because it represents what India has always stood for – inclusion, development and progress.

The people of India have faith in their PM not simply because of his superstar appeal, but because of the way he has addressed the needs of different segments of Indian society through various developmental schemes. Some of the key initiatives by Modi such as Jan Dhan Yojna and Swachh Bharat have been praised by global organisations such as the World Bank. The Jan Dhan initiative has been lauded by the Bank as one of the most successful financial inclusion initiatives. Over 344 million bank accounts have been opened and to the critics who thrive on cynicism, only 16.3 per cent of these accounts were inoperative.&nbsp;

According to the World Health Organisation, Swachh Bharat’s cleanliness drive has been estimated to avert hygiene and food conditions-related deaths of over 3,00,000 children by October 2019.&nbsp;

Just before the 2014 electoral upset, only under 40 per cent of Indian households had access to toilets. By 2018, this number increased to 89 per cent under Modi. A rock star appeal doesn’t push the country to set electoral precedents - the provision of basic necessities does.&nbsp;

Making toilets and providing electricity to every village might not be consequential to the average New York Times subscriber, but it is what created the bond of trust between Modi and the woman who is no longer eve-teased as she tries to use the restroom in the morning.&nbsp;

A one-Dimensional analysis of any issue, let alone the Indian economy, is problematic. The 2014 Indian economy that was handed to Modi as a welcome package by the Gandhi family, was in a shambles with double-digit inflation, investors withdrawing funds from India and the country being included on the list of the “fragile five economies”.&nbsp;

The Modi government (despite certain mishaps) has in the past five years taken serious measures to change things around. Beyond focusing on better infrastructure, the transparency brought into the system through structural reforms such as GST, the Bankruptcy &amp; Insolvency Code Bill and FDI in selective sectors, among others, has made India the favourite FDI destination in 2018, ahead of US and China.

Communal violence is unfortunately not new. It is a systemic product of the post-Independence social and religious fragility in India. However, fortunately, there hasn’t been a single case of large-scale communal riots since Modi came to power in 2014. Compare that with the UPA government, which failed to manage communal violence - the 2006 Aligarh riots, 2008 Dhule riots, 2010 Deganga, 2011 Bharatpur, 2012 Assam riots and most famously, 2013 Muzaffarnagar, are just a few examples that come to mind.

Indian voters recognise that the UPA government not just failed to maintain peace on a domestic level, but also on the international level, costing the country over 800 civilians between 2004 and 2014 at the hands of terrorism funded by neighbouring countries. Modi has denied India the chance to become a victim yet again and gave Parliament a culture shock when he pivoted from the meekish approach it has usually adopted in the past.&nbsp;

While it is satisfying for some to demonise Modi in the short run, it is much more difficult to come up with a clear and inclusive roadmap, rally the troops in a country with 100+ languages and six major religions and influence people in a unified manner and inspire meaningful change.&nbsp;

The truth is we don’t have the time or the bandwidth for despair anymore as we grow desperate to see India evolve into a global leader. The road is long and uphill, but empty criticism will not be carried as excess baggage by the citizens who are determined to rise.&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
(Mansi Sharma contributed to this article) 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-empty-outrage-will-not-do-2764306">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On the eve of the 2019 Lok Sabha results, the New York Times published an article titled “How Narendra Modi Seduced India with Envy and Hate”. A little before the election, Time magazine featured NaMo on their cover and in bold letters labelled him as the “Divider in Chief”.

On the eve of the 2019 Lok Sabha results, the New York Times published an article titled “How Narendra Modi Seduced India with Envy and Hate”. A little before the election, Time magazine featured NaMo on their cover and in bold letters labelled him as the “Divider in Chief”. Kapil Komireddi’s analysis of the Indian political landscape for The Guardian went on to call Indians “intellectually vacant” and the country a “make believe land of fudge and fakery”. These scathing remarks from the international community crystallised national support for Modi and May 23, 2019 put the debate to rest, telling the world what India really is – an exemplary democracy that does not seek validation from a few writers in Manhattan or London to create the ideological roadmap for our future. However, it is imperative to discuss a political narrative that goes beyond cow lynchings and hate speech, as some leading Western publications have been trying to propagate. Modi’s victory is unfazed by this empty outrage because it represents what India has always stood for – inclusion, development and progress. The people of India have faith in their PM not simply because of his superstar appeal, but because of the way he has addressed the needs of different segments of Indian society through various developmental schemes. Some of the key initiatives by Modi such as Jan Dhan Yojna and Swachh Bharat have been praised by global organisations such as the World Bank. The Jan Dhan initiative has been lauded by the Bank as one of the most successful financial inclusion initiatives. Over 344 million bank accounts have been opened and to the critics who thrive on cynicism, only 16.3 per cent of these accounts were inoperative. According to the World Health Organisation, Swachh Bharat’s cleanliness drive has been estimated to avert hygiene and food conditions-related deaths of over 3,00,000 children by October 2019. Just before the 2014 electoral upset, only under 40 per cent of Indian households had access to toilets. By 2018, this number increased to 89 per cent under Modi. A rock star appeal doesn’t push the country to set electoral precedents - the provision of basic necessities does. Making toilets and providing electricity to every village might not be consequential to the average New York Times subscriber, but it is what created the bond of trust between Modi and the woman who is no longer eve-teased as she tries to use the restroom in the morning. A one-Dimensional analysis of any issue, let alone the Indian economy, is problematic. The 2014 Indian economy that was handed to Modi as a welcome package by the Gandhi family, was in a shambles with double-digit inflation, investors withdrawing funds from India and the country being included on the list of the “fragile five economies”. The Modi government (despite certain mishaps) has in the past five years taken serious measures to change things around. Beyond focusing on better infrastructure, the transparency brought into the system through structural reforms such as GST, the Bankruptcy & Insolvency Code Bill and FDI in selective sectors, among others, has made India the favourite FDI destination in 2018, ahead of US and China. Communal violence is unfortunately not new. It is a systemic product of the post-Independence social and religious fragility in India. However, fortunately, there hasn’t been a single case of large-scale communal riots since Modi came to power in 2014. Compare that with the UPA government, which failed to manage communal violence - the 2006 Aligarh riots, 2008 Dhule riots, 2010 Deganga, 2011 Bharatpur, 2012 Assam riots and most famously, 2013 Muzaffarnagar, are just a few examples that come to mind. Indian voters recognise that the UPA government not just failed to maintain peace on a domestic level, but also on the international level, costing the country over 800 civilians between 2004 and 2014 at the hands of terrorism funded by neighbouring countries. Modi has denied India the chance to become a victim yet again and gave Parliament a culture shock when he pivoted from the meekish approach it has usually adopted in the past. While it is satisfying for some to demonise Modi in the short run, it is much more difficult to come up with a clear and inclusive roadmap, rally the troops in a country with 100+ languages and six major religions and influence people in a unified manner and inspire meaningful change. The truth is we don’t have the time or the bandwidth for despair anymore as we grow desperate to see India evolve into a global leader. The road is long and uphill, but empty criticism will not be carried as excess baggage by the citizens who are determined to rise. (Mansi Sharma contributed to this article) (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.)

Narendra Modi’s victory is unfazed by empty outrages

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders.

The chief minister is wasting crores of rupees in the name of 'Grama Vastavya', he alleged and claimed that the government spent Rs 1 crore on Kumaraswamy's stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week as part of the programme.

'Grama Vastavya' is aimed at taking the administration to the people.

Internal squabble in the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition has created an atmosphere that the government may collapse any time, Yeddyurappa claimed, asking Kumaraswamy as to when people would get relief from his administration that has lost direction. 
 
"During his stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week- just imagine- he (CM) claims to be a simple man and boasted that state's exchequer will be burdened if he travels by helicopter, Rs 1.22 crore was spent for luxury, food and other things- you (CM) should be ashamed," the BJP leader said

"Preparations are on for the chief minister's Grama Vastavya at Karegudda in Raichur on June 26, here also he will be spending a minimum of Rs 1 crore," Yeddyurappa told reporters, as he hit out at Kumaraswamy for boasting about his simplicity, while "running the administration from a five star hotel."

Kumaraswamy did the first 'Grama Vastavya' at Chandaraki village on Friday, while his stay at Herurvillage in Kalaburagi rural taluk on Saturday was postponed due to heavy rain.

The state BJP on Monday released a book "Grama Vastavya - Zero Performance" that lists out the current status of about 42 villages that Kumaraswamy had visited during his first stint as chief minister in 2006-07.

The leader of the opposition also alleged that 'Grama Vastavya' showed that the chief minister is unable to implement the decisions that are taken in the state capital at the local level.&nbsp;

He has lost control over the bureaucracy and does not have faith in his district in-charge ministers, Yeddyurappa said.

"At the time when science and technology in the country have progressed, why are you playing the 'Grama-Drama' of solving the issues through Grama Vastavya? Isn't this a publicity gimmick? Will you come out with a white paper about your achievements in previous Grama Vastavya," he asked.

Yeddyurappa hit out at Kumaraswamy for allegedly running the administration from a five-star hotel.

"Mr chief minister, when will people get relief from your administration that has lost direction and from the daily street fight of your coalition parties?" he asked.

"Watching and reading about street fighting between Congress-JD(S) leaders, people are cursing. There is loot taking place every day at government departments, still CM is making speeches about developing the state- when is the relief from such illusion?" he said.

To a question, Yeddyurappa said, "Very soon there will be relief (from this government), we will have to wait a bit. Elected representatives have to get that relief. Elected representatives have to respond to concerns of the people, they have to give, who else can give?"

Yeddyurappa after releasing the book, posed questions to the chief minister on a host of issues including farmer suicides, IMA Jewels fraud, government's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land to JSW Steel in Ballari, among others.

"Do you have any answer for 1,500 farmer suicides, when you are running a luxury administration from 5-star hotel? You had promised to waive farmers loan worth Rs 48,000 crore within 24 hours after coming to power, but despite 13 months no loan waiver, also new loans are not available... Do people have to believe in you?" he asked.

Yeddyurappa said while there was a situation of drought in the state and scarcity of water and fodder for animals, the chief minister was indulging in the "drama" of Grama Vastavya.

Claiming that the chief minister ate biriyani with Mohammed Mansoor Khan who was behind the alleged IMA Jewels scam in which thousands of people belonging to the minority community were duped, he questioned Kumaraswamy's silence over the demand by those affected and the opposition for a CBI inquiry.

Yeddyurappa also asked Kumaraswamy as to how much "kick-back" he has received, as he pointed at the state cabinet's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land in Ballari to JSW Steel at the "low price" of Rs 1.22 lakh per acre.&nbsp;

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders.

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders. The chief minister is wasting crores of rupees in the name of 'Grama Vastavya', he alleged and claimed that the government spent Rs 1 crore on Kumaraswamy's stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week as part of the programme. 'Grama Vastavya' is aimed at taking the administration to the people. Internal squabble in the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition has created an atmosphere that the government may collapse any time, Yeddyurappa claimed, asking Kumaraswamy as to when people would get relief from his administration that has lost direction. "During his stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week- just imagine- he (CM) claims to be a simple man and boasted that state's exchequer will be burdened if he travels by helicopter, Rs 1.22 crore was spent for luxury, food and other things- you (CM) should be ashamed," the BJP leader said "Preparations are on for the chief minister's Grama Vastavya at Karegudda in Raichur on June 26, here also he will be spending a minimum of Rs 1 crore," Yeddyurappa told reporters, as he hit out at Kumaraswamy for boasting about his simplicity, while "running the administration from a five star hotel." Kumaraswamy did the first 'Grama Vastavya' at Chandaraki village on Friday, while his stay at Herurvillage in Kalaburagi rural taluk on Saturday was postponed due to heavy rain. The state BJP on Monday released a book "Grama Vastavya - Zero Performance" that lists out the current status of about 42 villages that Kumaraswamy had visited during his first stint as chief minister in 2006-07. The leader of the opposition also alleged that 'Grama Vastavya' showed that the chief minister is unable to implement the decisions that are taken in the state capital at the local level. He has lost control over the bureaucracy and does not have faith in his district in-charge ministers, Yeddyurappa said. "At the time when science and technology in the country have progressed, why are you playing the 'Grama-Drama' of solving the issues through Grama Vastavya? Isn't this a publicity gimmick? Will you come out with a white paper about your achievements in previous Grama Vastavya," he asked. Yeddyurappa hit out at Kumaraswamy for allegedly running the administration from a five-star hotel. "Mr chief minister, when will people get relief from your administration that has lost direction and from the daily street fight of your coalition parties?" he asked. "Watching and reading about street fighting between Congress-JD(S) leaders, people are cursing. There is loot taking place every day at government departments, still CM is making speeches about developing the state- when is the relief from such illusion?" he said. To a question, Yeddyurappa said, "Very soon there will be relief (from this government), we will have to wait a bit. Elected representatives have to get that relief. Elected representatives have to respond to concerns of the people, they have to give, who else can give?" Yeddyurappa after releasing the book, posed questions to the chief minister on a host of issues including farmer suicides, IMA Jewels fraud, government's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land to JSW Steel in Ballari, among others. "Do you have any answer for 1,500 farmer suicides, when you are running a luxury administration from 5-star hotel? You had promised to waive farmers loan worth Rs 48,000 crore within 24 hours after coming to power, but despite 13 months no loan waiver, also new loans are not available... Do people have to believe in you?" he asked. Yeddyurappa said while there was a situation of drought in the state and scarcity of water and fodder for animals, the chief minister was indulging in the "drama" of Grama Vastavya. Claiming that the chief minister ate biriyani with Mohammed Mansoor Khan who was behind the alleged IMA Jewels scam in which thousands of people belonging to the minority community were duped, he questioned Kumaraswamy's silence over the demand by those affected and the opposition for a CBI inquiry. Yeddyurappa also asked Kumaraswamy as to how much "kick-back" he has received, as he pointed at the state cabinet's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land in Ballari to JSW Steel at the "low price" of Rs 1.22 lakh per acre.

Congress-JD(S) leaders engage in 'daily street fight', people need relief: BJP leader Yeddyurappa

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mayawati-gives-brother-and-nephew-key-party-posts-229741">Mayawati</a> hurled the allegation, describing even the BJP landslide victory in the last Lok Sabha election as "doubtful".

The new gimmick of 'one nation, one election' is a BJP's ploy to win the Lok Sabha and assembly elections by a single 'dhandhli' (manipulation) misusing the EVMs," she said.

"It will put the nation in an era of casteism making it free from any opposition," she added, addressing a party meeting convened to discuss the purported "national concern" over the alleged "hijacking" of the democracy via EVMs here.

"If there is no manipulation in the BJP's victory and if it has the majority votes by its side, why is the party shying away from going to the people and avoiding elections through ballots," a BSP statement quoted her as asking.

The meeting was also attended by the BSP's representatives from other states, who alleged that the Election Commission was working on directions of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

"The way the EC bowed before the prime minister also gives rise to the apprehension over the free and fair polls in the country and weakening of the democracy," she alleged and demanded that "constitutional bodies should find a solution to the people's concern".

She said the BJP's victory is "unexpected and against the people's mandate", which is not possible without a "planned manipulation and conspiracy".

The BSP supremo demanded that elections in India be held through ballot papers in future.&nbsp;

"All the main opposition political parties are of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers but the BJP and the EC are against it, which has created uneasiness in the country,"&nbsp;she said.

Mayawati also questioned the BJP's keenness on having simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections.

"If the BJP is so keen on one nation, one poll, why didn't it hold the assembly elections in states like Haryana and Maharashtra with the Lok Sabha polls," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She asked party workers to remain cautious to deal with discrepancies in the functioning of EVMs during upcoming polls and emphasised upon them to stick to the party's "brotherhood formula" successfully tested in the 2007 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls to ensure that the party's base remains intact.

In the meeting, Mayawati also took stock of the party's readiness for the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and Maharashtra. 
&nbsp;

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs.

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs. Mayawati hurled the allegation, describing even the BJP landslide victory in the last Lok Sabha election as "doubtful". The new gimmick of 'one nation, one election' is a BJP's ploy to win the Lok Sabha and assembly elections by a single 'dhandhli' (manipulation) misusing the EVMs," she said. "It will put the nation in an era of casteism making it free from any opposition," she added, addressing a party meeting convened to discuss the purported "national concern" over the alleged "hijacking" of the democracy via EVMs here. "If there is no manipulation in the BJP's victory and if it has the majority votes by its side, why is the party shying away from going to the people and avoiding elections through ballots," a BSP statement quoted her as asking. The meeting was also attended by the BSP's representatives from other states, who alleged that the Election Commission was working on directions of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The way the EC bowed before the prime minister also gives rise to the apprehension over the free and fair polls in the country and weakening of the democracy," she alleged and demanded that "constitutional bodies should find a solution to the people's concern". She said the BJP's victory is "unexpected and against the people's mandate", which is not possible without a "planned manipulation and conspiracy". The BSP supremo demanded that elections in India be held through ballot papers in future. "All the main opposition political parties are of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers but the BJP and the EC are against it, which has created uneasiness in the country," she said. Mayawati also questioned the BJP's keenness on having simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections. "If the BJP is so keen on one nation, one poll, why didn't it hold the assembly elections in states like Haryana and Maharashtra with the Lok Sabha polls," she said. She asked party workers to remain cautious to deal with discrepancies in the functioning of EVMs during upcoming polls and emphasised upon them to stick to the party's "brotherhood formula" successfully tested in the 2007 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls to ensure that the party's base remains intact. In the meeting, Mayawati also took stock of the party's readiness for the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and Maharashtra.

BJP's 'one nation, one poll' a ploy to win all elections by single 'manipulation': Mayawati

Union Minister and BJP MP for Amethi Smriti Irani on Sunday distributed laptops to Lekhpals and asked them to avail digital services made available to them by the government.

"We should aim to set an example for the country by availing digital services in every village so that people don't have to line up outside government offices," Irani said.

Irani was attending an event for the mass baby shower and 'Annaprashana'&nbsp;in Amethi's Gauriganj, where she distributed laptops to 240 Lekhpals.

"I don't believe in long speeches. I want people's issues to be addressed so that they can go home," the union minister said.

Irani appealed the District Magistrate to organise digital training for the Lekhpals.

"You are a part of the government that reaches every village and house. People expect solutions to their problems through you. Get digital training and go to every village in the district. Keep in touch with the police and maintain law and order," the lawmaker appealed the Lekhpals.

"I assure the people of Amethi that the government is devoted to you 24 hours a day," she added.&nbsp;

Union Minister and BJP MP for Amethi Smriti Irani on Sunday distributed laptops to Lekhpals and asked them to avail digital services made available to them by the government.

Union Minister and BJP MP for Amethi Smriti Irani on Sunday distributed laptops to Lekhpals and asked them to avail digital services made available to them by the government. "We should aim to set an example for the country by availing digital services in every village so that people don't have to line up outside government offices," Irani said. Irani was attending an event for the mass baby shower and 'Annaprashana' in Amethi's Gauriganj, where she distributed laptops to 240 Lekhpals. "I don't believe in long speeches. I want people's issues to be addressed so that they can go home," the union minister said. Irani appealed the District Magistrate to organise digital training for the Lekhpals. "You are a part of the government that reaches every village and house. People expect solutions to their problems through you. Get digital training and go to every village in the district. Keep in touch with the police and maintain law and order," the lawmaker appealed the Lekhpals. "I assure the people of Amethi that the government is devoted to you 24 hours a day," she added.

Smriti Irani distributes laptops to Lekhpals, says Amethi should be known for digitisation

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson has slammed the US state department's 2018 International Religious Freedom report that alleged that some senior leaders of the BJP made inflammatory speeches against minority communities.

India rejects US global religious freedom report

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari has received a death threat through an SMS on his personal phone number, in which the sender said he is under "extreme compulsion" to eliminate the leader.

The unidentified person also threatened to eliminate the prime minister "if need be", Tiwari said.

"I have informed the police about the threat," Tiwari told PTI.

The sender of the SMS also said in his Hindi message that he was "sorry" for deciding to eliminate Tiwari under "extreme compulsion".

A formal complaint about the threat will be lodged soon, said Delhi BJP's Media Relations head, Neelkant Bakshi.

The SMS was received on Tiwari's mobile phone at 12.52 pm on Friday which he saw on Saturday evening and immediately informed the police, he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari has received a death threat through an SMS on his personal phone number, in which the sender said he is under "extreme compulsion" to eliminate the leader.

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari has received a death threat through an SMS on his personal phone number, in which the sender said he is under "extreme compulsion" to eliminate the leader. The unidentified person also threatened to eliminate the prime minister "if need be", Tiwari said. "I have informed the police about the threat," Tiwari told PTI. The sender of the SMS also said in his Hindi message that he was "sorry" for deciding to eliminate Tiwari under "extreme compulsion". A formal complaint about the threat will be lodged soon, said Delhi BJP's Media Relations head, Neelkant Bakshi. The SMS was received on Tiwari's mobile phone at 12.52 pm on Friday which he saw on Saturday evening and immediately informed the police, he added.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari gets death threat

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-fresh-clashes-break-out-in-trouble-hit-bhatpara-many-injured-229502">Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district</a> in West Bengal on Saturday.

The fact-finding committee met the family members of the two deceased and also interacted with the locals.&nbsp;

After meeting the family members, the delegation announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the deceased’s family. “We met the family members of the deceased. They showed us the bullets too. They were killed in police firing, but police are just refusing to accept it. We have announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the family members. &nbsp;We also visited the tensed areas and spoke to the locals. This is a complete failure of the administration who have failed to restore peace in the state,” said Ahluwalia.&nbsp;

Tension was reported once again in Bhatpara after the BJP delegation left for Kolkata. Locals assembled to see the delegation violating section 144 CrPC imposed in the area. To disperse locals, police once again had to resort to lathi-charge which injuring two persons. &nbsp;

A day ago, the West Bengal government transferred the Commissioner of Barrackpore Commissionerate and posted IPS Manoj Verma as the new Commissioner. While he visited all the affected area on foot with a huge contingent of force, he also checked police pickets laid across the area.&nbsp;

“The situation is under control. The priority is to restore the law and order situation and we are focusing on that. There are no reports of fresh violence, we are urging all to maintain peace,” said Manoj Verma.&nbsp;

On Thursday, massive clashes erupted at Bhatpara ahead of the inauguration of the Bhatpara police station. Miscreants lobbed crude bombs and pelted stones at the police. The inaugural ceremony was to be attended by the West Bengal Police’s Director General. However, the ceremony was cut short and DGP returned to Kolkata.&nbsp;

Thursday’s clashes left two persons dead and four others seriously injured. The two deceased were identified as Rambabu Shaw and Dharambir Shaw – both said to be locals. The two suffered bullet injuries and were declared dead at the hospital. Four others are undergoing treatment at the local hospital.

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal on Saturday.

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal on Saturday. The fact-finding committee met the family members of the two deceased and also interacted with the locals. After meeting the family members, the delegation announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the deceased’s family. “We met the family members of the deceased. They showed us the bullets too. They were killed in police firing, but police are just refusing to accept it. We have announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the family members. We also visited the tensed areas and spoke to the locals. This is a complete failure of the administration who have failed to restore peace in the state,” said Ahluwalia. Tension was reported once again in Bhatpara after the BJP delegation left for Kolkata. Locals assembled to see the delegation violating section 144 CrPC imposed in the area. To disperse locals, police once again had to resort to lathi-charge which injuring two persons. A day ago, the West Bengal government transferred the Commissioner of Barrackpore Commissionerate and posted IPS Manoj Verma as the new Commissioner. While he visited all the affected area on foot with a huge contingent of force, he also checked police pickets laid across the area. “The situation is under control. The priority is to restore the law and order situation and we are focusing on that. There are no reports of fresh violence, we are urging all to maintain peace,” said Manoj Verma. On Thursday, massive clashes erupted at Bhatpara ahead of the inauguration of the Bhatpara police station. Miscreants lobbed crude bombs and pelted stones at the police. The inaugural ceremony was to be attended by the West Bengal Police’s Director General. However, the ceremony was cut short and DGP returned to Kolkata. Thursday’s clashes left two persons dead and four others seriously injured. The two deceased were identified as Rambabu Shaw and Dharambir Shaw – both said to be locals. The two suffered bullet injuries and were declared dead at the hospital. Four others are undergoing treatment at the local hospital.

West Bengal: BJP central delegation visits tension-marred Bhatpara

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/metro-man-sreedharan-requests-pm-narendra-modi-not-to-agree-to-delhi-governments-free-travel-scheme-for-women-227161">'Metro Man' E Sreedharan</a> for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message.&nbsp;

In a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the former DMRC chief said free travel will "worsen overcrowding" and "lead to mishaps".&nbsp;

He alleged that the Delhi government's proposal of free travel for women is an "election gimmick" and urged the Kejriwal dispensation to "not destroy" the efficient and successful public transport system for electoral gains.

Hitting back, Atishi said the party is surprised that a respected person like him has written a "political letter" and the AAP feels like BJP is using Sreedharan's shoulder for conveying its message.

"Sreedharan ji has said that the move would be a financial burden on DMRC. I want to ask when last year, the Centre proposed to make metro rides free for senior citizens and students, why did not he raise any objection?" she said.

"If you look at the central government's proposal, you will see that it was a model of cross-subsidy, which means all other people would bear the subsidy of students and senior citizens. Why no objection on this?" the 37-year-old Oxford scholar said.

Secondly, in airport metro lines, several financial irregularities surfaced and the Delhi government gave a detailed report on it and a CBI inquiry was proposed, but it was stalled by the government, Atishi alleged.

"When this metro line was being made, Sreedharan ji was in-charge of Delhi metro, and if financial irregularities were taking place, why did not he raise his voice? Is the BJP protecting all the administrators by not conducting a CBI inquiry into the matter? Is this the reason the BJP is able to use Sreedharan ji for putting out their voice?" the AAP leader, who fought the Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi seat, said.

"Third issue - he (Sreedharan) said (Sisodia's) comment that DMRC is using 65 per cent of its capacity is wrong and he is lying on the DPR report... Our question to you is whether the DPR project report on the basis of which the state and Centre decide their share...Is he implying that the figure of riders and the whole funding given on the basis of this report is wrong?" she said.

Quoting several international research studies on women's mobility and access to economic opportunities, Atishi said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has based its proposal on such studies.&nbsp;

"Women are a very small fraction of the country's workforce. Most women work in small and medium-sized enterprises. They do not have the financial independence to travel freely and many times have to ask their families for money to travel. When travel for women becomes free, it significantly increases their access to opportunities, as the World Bank and UNDP reports have suggested," she said.&nbsp;

She said a McKinsey Global report said India's GDP will grow by 16-20 per cent if women participation in the economy will be at par with men.&nbsp;

"The lack of access to public transport is one of the top impediments to the participation of women in the workforce," she added.

Reiterating the party's strong women security pitch, Atishi said, "Women feel much more secure when the presence of women grows in public spaces. We do not need just special coaches, we need 50 per cent occupancy of women in the Metro."

In an appeal to Sreedharan to not allow himself to be used by the BJP for their political agenda, Atishi said, "You are such a well-respected person, why are you allowing the BJP to fire from your shoulder to stall women's empowerment and development? The BJP is a party that wants women to stay at home, not wear jeans, and is opposed to women being independent. Why are you supporting such a regressive mentality?"&nbsp;

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at 'Metro Man' E Sreedharan for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message.

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at 'Metro Man' E Sreedharan for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message. In a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the former DMRC chief said free travel will "worsen overcrowding" and "lead to mishaps". He alleged that the Delhi government's proposal of free travel for women is an "election gimmick" and urged the Kejriwal dispensation to "not destroy" the efficient and successful public transport system for electoral gains. Hitting back, Atishi said the party is surprised that a respected person like him has written a "political letter" and the AAP feels like BJP is using Sreedharan's shoulder for conveying its message. "Sreedharan ji has said that the move would be a financial burden on DMRC. I want to ask when last year, the Centre proposed to make metro rides free for senior citizens and students, why did not he raise any objection?" she said. "If you look at the central government's proposal, you will see that it was a model of cross-subsidy, which means all other people would bear the subsidy of students and senior citizens. Why no objection on this?" the 37-year-old Oxford scholar said. Secondly, in airport metro lines, several financial irregularities surfaced and the Delhi government gave a detailed report on it and a CBI inquiry was proposed, but it was stalled by the government, Atishi alleged. "When this metro line was being made, Sreedharan ji was in-charge of Delhi metro, and if financial irregularities were taking place, why did not he raise his voice? Is the BJP protecting all the administrators by not conducting a CBI inquiry into the matter? Is this the reason the BJP is able to use Sreedharan ji for putting out their voice?" the AAP leader, who fought the Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi seat, said. "Third issue - he (Sreedharan) said (Sisodia's) comment that DMRC is using 65 per cent of its capacity is wrong and he is lying on the DPR report... Our question to you is whether the DPR project report on the basis of which the state and Centre decide their share...Is he implying that the figure of riders and the whole funding given on the basis of this report is wrong?" she said. Quoting several international research studies on women's mobility and access to economic opportunities, Atishi said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has based its proposal on such studies. "Women are a very small fraction of the country's workforce. Most women work in small and medium-sized enterprises. They do not have the financial independence to travel freely and many times have to ask their families for money to travel. When travel for women becomes free, it significantly increases their access to opportunities, as the World Bank and UNDP reports have suggested," she said. She said a McKinsey Global report said India's GDP will grow by 16-20 per cent if women participation in the economy will be at par with men. "The lack of access to public transport is one of the top impediments to the participation of women in the workforce," she added. Reiterating the party's strong women security pitch, Atishi said, "Women feel much more secure when the presence of women grows in public spaces. We do not need just special coaches, we need 50 per cent occupancy of women in the Metro." In an appeal to Sreedharan to not allow himself to be used by the BJP for their political agenda, Atishi said, "You are such a well-respected person, why are you allowing the BJP to fire from your shoulder to stall women's empowerment and development? The BJP is a party that wants women to stay at home, not wear jeans, and is opposed to women being independent. Why are you supporting such a regressive mentality?"

'Metro Man' Sreedharan being used by BJP to convey its message, Atishi hits back

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP.&nbsp;

Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends.&nbsp;

The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation.&nbsp;

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent&nbsp;vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP.&nbsp;

Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent&nbsp;clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends.&nbsp;

The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation.&nbsp; 
 
The BJP checkmated Mamata in her own brand of politics. Bengal has been a hotbed of class politics with not much role in caste politics. Left positioned itself as the champion of poor, downtrodden and minorities, though it was Bhadralok which held majority cabinet positions and power.&nbsp;

In 2009, for the first time, Mamata flirted with caste politics. A strategy was put in place by Mukul Roy (now in BJP) to divide the SC vote (19 per cent of the population) by wooing the influential Matua community. 55-60 per cent of the SC population used to vote for Left Front. Mamata became a lifetime member of Matua Mahasangha in December 2009.&nbsp;

The TMC received 48 per cent of Matua and 46 per cent of other SC votes in 2011 state elections in which Mamata displaced the 34-year rule of Left. Modi-Shah duo also set their eyes on this vote bank. The community’s spiritual family split into two groups, one backing the BJP and other the TMC after the death of its leader. BJP received strong support from SC voters in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Ten years is a good enough time to develop anti-incumbency against any government. Mamata’s constant conflicts with the central government are also impacting state government’s performance. Many voters could be swayed, thinking that same government in the Centre and the state is good for development. Mamata is seen as doing minority appeasement. This has upset even the educated Hindus who do not believe in caste/religion politics.&nbsp;

She has lost her cool on many occasions and pressure is clearly visible on her face. The BJP is enjoying all this tamasha. Recently, a video of Mamata was doing the rounds wherein she stopped her vehicle after hearing ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants and was seen asking officials to take action.&nbsp;

Her handling of the doctors’ strike which has paralysed the health facilities in the state, with 700 doctors resigning at last count, has evoked nation-wide rage among the medical fraternity. Mamata’s statement that ‘outsiders’ had entered medical colleges to create disturbances and the agitation was a conspiracy by the CPM and the BJP has added fuel to the fire. Mamata has accepted all demands of the doctors requesting them to return to the office which they have rejected.

Her statement that if you are in Bengal you have to speak Bangla is an attempt to create a wedge between locals (Bengalis) and outsiders (non-Bengalis) and brand BJP as a party of Hindi speaking North Indians. She is trying to invoke the Bengali pride. As per estimates, 15 per cent&nbsp;of the population of Bengal consists of non-Bengalis which are likely to further consolidate behind the BJP.

The BJP enjoys the support of half of the Hindu population which translates into 35 per cent vote share, its core vote now. Many cadres of Left have switched over to BJP, demoralized by their existential crisis, and have given the much-needed last mile connectivity which it was missing earlier. The deaths of workers (which are highly condemnable) after elections shows that damage has been inflicted on both sides and BJP workers are not taking it lying down like earlier. The organizational structure has been emboldened. &nbsp;

However, challenges remain. PM Modi factor played a big role in the BJP’s performance in Lok Sabha. About one-third of the votes received by BJP were due to PM Modi. In state elections, this factor may not hold to be that strong like it was seen in Delhi and Bihar state elections in 2015. PM Modi held 17 rallies and road-shows in Bengal. He may not be able to campaign with same vigour in state elections due to Prime Ministerial duties.

The elections are increasingly becoming personality oriented and BJP lacks a state level leader who can match Mamata. It needs to project a CM face soon and develop it over the next two years. Voters are also increasingly differentiating between state and national elections as witnessed in Rajasthan, Odisha, MP and Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

In Lok Sabha, people voted to elect a PM, which gave BJP a boost. In Vidhan Sabha people will be voting to elect a CM, thus negating this boost factor. In 2016 state polls, BJP’s vote share declined by 7 per cent in absolute terms and 40 per cent in relative terms which it has to be wary of.&nbsp;

An alliance between Left and Congress could be potentially damaging as this combine could appeal to a section of voters. Mamata has appointed political strategist Prashant Kishore as her campaign manager exhibiting her first sign of weakness. The BJP has to refrain from pressures to invoke President’s Rule in the state which will act as a sympathy factor for Mamata. It needs to keep up the ante, manage defections and wait for Mamata to commit errors under pressure.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-bjp-s-audacious-target-2763265">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections.

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP. Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends. The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation. After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP. Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends. The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation. The BJP checkmated Mamata in her own brand of politics. Bengal has been a hotbed of class politics with not much role in caste politics. Left positioned itself as the champion of poor, downtrodden and minorities, though it was Bhadralok which held majority cabinet positions and power. In 2009, for the first time, Mamata flirted with caste politics. A strategy was put in place by Mukul Roy (now in BJP) to divide the SC vote (19 per cent of the population) by wooing the influential Matua community. 55-60 per cent of the SC population used to vote for Left Front. Mamata became a lifetime member of Matua Mahasangha in December 2009. The TMC received 48 per cent of Matua and 46 per cent of other SC votes in 2011 state elections in which Mamata displaced the 34-year rule of Left. Modi-Shah duo also set their eyes on this vote bank. The community’s spiritual family split into two groups, one backing the BJP and other the TMC after the death of its leader. BJP received strong support from SC voters in Lok Sabha. Ten years is a good enough time to develop anti-incumbency against any government. Mamata’s constant conflicts with the central government are also impacting state government’s performance. Many voters could be swayed, thinking that same government in the Centre and the state is good for development. Mamata is seen as doing minority appeasement. This has upset even the educated Hindus who do not believe in caste/religion politics. She has lost her cool on many occasions and pressure is clearly visible on her face. The BJP is enjoying all this tamasha. Recently, a video of Mamata was doing the rounds wherein she stopped her vehicle after hearing ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants and was seen asking officials to take action. Her handling of the doctors’ strike which has paralysed the health facilities in the state, with 700 doctors resigning at last count, has evoked nation-wide rage among the medical fraternity. Mamata’s statement that ‘outsiders’ had entered medical colleges to create disturbances and the agitation was a conspiracy by the CPM and the BJP has added fuel to the fire. Mamata has accepted all demands of the doctors requesting them to return to the office which they have rejected. Her statement that if you are in Bengal you have to speak Bangla is an attempt to create a wedge between locals (Bengalis) and outsiders (non-Bengalis) and brand BJP as a party of Hindi speaking North Indians. She is trying to invoke the Bengali pride. As per estimates, 15 per cent of the population of Bengal consists of non-Bengalis which are likely to further consolidate behind the BJP. The BJP enjoys the support of half of the Hindu population which translates into 35 per cent vote share, its core vote now. Many cadres of Left have switched over to BJP, demoralized by their existential crisis, and have given the much-needed last mile connectivity which it was missing earlier. The deaths of workers (which are highly condemnable) after elections shows that damage has been inflicted on both sides and BJP workers are not taking it lying down like earlier. The organizational structure has been emboldened. However, challenges remain. PM Modi factor played a big role in the BJP’s performance in Lok Sabha. About one-third of the votes received by BJP were due to PM Modi. In state elections, this factor may not hold to be that strong like it was seen in Delhi and Bihar state elections in 2015. PM Modi held 17 rallies and road-shows in Bengal. He may not be able to campaign with same vigour in state elections due to Prime Ministerial duties. The elections are increasingly becoming personality oriented and BJP lacks a state level leader who can match Mamata. It needs to project a CM face soon and develop it over the next two years. Voters are also increasingly differentiating between state and national elections as witnessed in Rajasthan, Odisha, MP and Chhattisgarh. In Lok Sabha, people voted to elect a PM, which gave BJP a boost. In Vidhan Sabha people will be voting to elect a CM, thus negating this boost factor. In 2016 state polls, BJP’s vote share declined by 7 per cent in absolute terms and 40 per cent in relative terms which it has to be wary of. An alliance between Left and Congress could be potentially damaging as this combine could appeal to a section of voters. Mamata has appointed political strategist Prashant Kishore as her campaign manager exhibiting her first sign of weakness. The BJP has to refrain from pressures to invoke President’s Rule in the state which will act as a sympathy factor for Mamata. It needs to keep up the ante, manage defections and wait for Mamata to commit errors under pressure. (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.)

BJP has set an ambitious goal of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power

Indian President hail Govt's achievements, In this video have a look at key takeaways.

Indian President hail Govt's achievements: Have a look at key takeaways

Gautam Gambhir, the newly elected Member of Parliament, said that for sportsmen, yoga is more beneficial than gymming.

The former batsman performed the spiritual and ascetic discipline on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-mt-everests-base-to-earths-lowest-elevation-at-dead-sea-international-yoga-day-celebrated-across-the-globe-229119">5th International Yoga Day</a> on Friday.

"Yoga is very important as a sports person and sportsmen always do yoga. Both gyming and yoga are important but yoga helps in building concentration power and keeps you calm and peaceful to take better decisions," he added.

The 37-year-old batsman played for more than 15 years for India and scored 4154 runs in 58 Test matches.

In 147 ODIs he had 5238 runs under his name.

"Yoga does not only makes your body fit but also keeps you in mental peace. If your mind is healthy then this country will remain healthy," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-the-best-to-team-india-says-gautam-gambhir-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-221339&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiloZq_nvriAhXF7GEKHeonCfYQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0LUbOVs0sgm_UQZpgR1uBg">Gambhir </a>told to reporters during the Yoga event at Delhi.

Just before the 2019 general elections, he joined the Bhartiya Janata Party and won the election contesting from East Delhi seat.

Gautam Gambhir, the newly elected Member of Parliament, said that for sportsmen, yoga is more beneficial than gymming. The former batsman performed the spiritual and ascetic discipline on the 5th International Yoga Day on Friday.

Gautam Gambhir, the newly elected Member of Parliament, said that for sportsmen, yoga is more beneficial than gymming. The former batsman performed the spiritual and ascetic discipline on the 5th International Yoga Day on Friday. "Yoga is very important as a sports person and sportsmen always do yoga. Both gyming and yoga are important but yoga helps in building concentration power and keeps you calm and peaceful to take better decisions," he added. The 37-year-old batsman played for more than 15 years for India and scored 4154 runs in 58 Test matches. In 147 ODIs he had 5238 runs under his name. "Yoga does not only makes your body fit but also keeps you in mental peace. If your mind is healthy then this country will remain healthy," Gambhir told to reporters during the Yoga event at Delhi. Just before the 2019 general elections, he joined the Bhartiya Janata Party and won the election contesting from East Delhi seat.

Yoga more beneficial than work out, says Gautam Gambhir

In a setback to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu, Rajya Sabha MPs YS Chowdary, TG Venkatesh, CM Ramesh and GM Rao&nbsp;on Thursday resigned from the TDP.&nbsp;

The four TDP MPs submitted their resignations to the vice president and Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu. &nbsp; 
 
They passed a resolution to merge Legislature Party of TDP&nbsp;with the BJP.

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Welcoming the lawmakers in the party, BJP working president JP Nadda said that the party will be strengthened with their inclusion.&nbsp;"I assure them that the BJP believes in politics of positivity and inclusiveness," he said. 
 
Reacting to the development, Naidu said, "Central Ministers for Special Status, condemn attempts of BJP to weaken TDP. Crisis is not new to the party. Leaders &amp; cadre have nothing to be nervous about."

As Naidu suffered a major loss in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, most TDP leaders are keen to join the BJP.

Their decision to back the BJP will give a boost to the saffron party in the Upper House as the ruling National Democratic Alliance does not have a majority there yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a setback to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu, Rajya Sabha MPs YS Chowdary, TG Venkatesh, CM Ramesh and GM Rao on Thursday resigned from the TDP.

In a setback to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu, Rajya Sabha MPs YS Chowdary, TG Venkatesh, CM Ramesh and GM Rao on Thursday resigned from the TDP. The four TDP MPs submitted their resignations to the vice president and Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu. They passed a resolution to merge Legislature Party of TDP with the BJP. TDP MPs of Rajya Sabha- YS Chowdary, CM Ramesh, TG Venkatesh and GM Rao, today passed a resolution to merge Legislature Party of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) with BJP. pic.twitter.com/3ln6qy5l8G — ANI (@ANI) June 20, 2019 × Welcoming the lawmakers in the party, BJP working president JP Nadda said that the party will be strengthened with their inclusion. "I assure them that the BJP believes in politics of positivity and inclusiveness," he said. Reacting to the development, Naidu said, "Central Ministers for Special Status, condemn attempts of BJP to weaken TDP. Crisis is not new to the party. Leaders & cadre have nothing to be nervous about." As Naidu suffered a major loss in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, most TDP leaders are keen to join the BJP. Their decision to back the BJP will give a boost to the saffron party in the Upper House as the ruling National Democratic Alliance does not have a majority there yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Four TDP Rajya Sabha MPs resign, cross over to BJP

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama.

Lashing out at the opportunism of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, Thackeray said that the SP-BSP coalition in Uttar Pradesh ended soon after their debacle in the Lok Sabha elections because they had come together just to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from coming to power.

"Our friendship with BJP is not a drama, I think no other party has this kind of friendship. The drama was what happened in Uttar Pradesh, as soon as the election ended the coalition between Mayawati and Akhilesh too came to an end. On the other hand, whatever differences we had with the BJP were sorted out when Amit Shahji visited Matoshri," Shiv Sena chief&nbsp;said on Wednesday.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other leaders from both the parties were also present at the event. Fadnavis said that there were some differences between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, but now they have been ironed out.

The chief minister claimed that the two parties will score a thumping victory in the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra.

The two parties fought the Lok Sabha election together.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama.

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama. Lashing out at the opportunism of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, Thackeray said that the SP-BSP coalition in Uttar Pradesh ended soon after their debacle in the Lok Sabha elections because they had come together just to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from coming to power. "Our friendship with BJP is not a drama, I think no other party has this kind of friendship. The drama was what happened in Uttar Pradesh, as soon as the election ended the coalition between Mayawati and Akhilesh too came to an end. On the other hand, whatever differences we had with the BJP were sorted out when Amit Shahji visited Matoshri," Shiv Sena chief said on Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other leaders from both the parties were also present at the event. Fadnavis said that there were some differences between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, but now they have been ironed out. The chief minister claimed that the two parties will score a thumping victory in the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra. The two parties fought the Lok Sabha election together. (With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena's friendship with BJP is unbreakable: Uddhav Thackeray

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Das joined the BJP in&nbsp;the presence of senior party leaders Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy in the national capital.

On Monday, TMC MLA Sunil Singh along with 15 party councillors had joined the Saffron party.

Reacting to the crossover of TMC MLAs and councillors to BJP, Mamata on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," she said.

Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister.

In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections.

The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Das joined the BJP in the presence of senior party leaders Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy in the national capital. On Monday, TMC MLA Sunil Singh along with 15 party councillors had joined the Saffron party. Reacting to the crossover of TMC MLAs and councillors to BJP, Mamata on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," she said. Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister. In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

More trouble for Mamata Banerjee as another Trinamool Congress MLA, 12 councillors join BJP

Watch India Watch, 18th June 2019. To know more watch the video

Watch India Watch, 18th June 2019

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the&nbsp;party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved.

If the Chief Minister did not give out the names before levelling such allegations, it would be seen as though he was suspecting his own party MLAs, Yeddyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the Chief Minister was making allegations against the BJP "out of desperation."

"We have said we are not involved in such things...18-20 Congress-JD(S) MLAs are disgruntled, take them into confidence and work unitedly towards the development of the state...

Still, 70 per cent of the state has not received any rains, there is severe drought, let's work together, as opposition we will also cooperate, is what we have said," he added.

"Unnecessarily by saying that someone from BJP offered Rs 10 crore to someone in JD(S), why are you bringing down the respect of your own members. What is the benefit from it?" Yeddyurappa asked.

Addressing a public meeting at a village in Ramanagara on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy had said relentless efforts have been made to pull down the government and he knew who have been behind it.

To back his claim, the chief minister said one of the JD(S) MLAs had received a call from a BJP leader on Monday, who said the government's fall was imminent and if he agreed (to switch sides), he would dispatch Rs 10 crore at his location.

Kumaraswamy, who did not reveal any names, said the BJP leader had also claimed that 10 MLAs from the ruling coalition were with them, and the government was going to fall.

After the rout in the Lok Sabha polls, the ruling coalition fears an onslaught by the BJP to destabilise the government by taking advantage of the simmering discontent.

The BJP and Yeddyurappa had earlier predicted the collapse of the coalition after the LS poll results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take "a decision" anytime.

However, subsequently allaying fears that BJP was trying to weaken the JD(S)-Congress government in Karnataka, Yeddyurappa had said central leaders have asked the state unit not to indulge in any activity to "destabilise" the H D Kumaraswamy ministry.

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved.

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved. If the Chief Minister did not give out the names before levelling such allegations, it would be seen as though he was suspecting his own party MLAs, Yeddyurappa said. Speaking to reporters here, he said the Chief Minister was making allegations against the BJP "out of desperation." "We have said we are not involved in such things...18-20 Congress-JD(S) MLAs are disgruntled, take them into confidence and work unitedly towards the development of the state... Still, 70 per cent of the state has not received any rains, there is severe drought, let's work together, as opposition we will also cooperate, is what we have said," he added. "Unnecessarily by saying that someone from BJP offered Rs 10 crore to someone in JD(S), why are you bringing down the respect of your own members. What is the benefit from it?" Yeddyurappa asked. Addressing a public meeting at a village in Ramanagara on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy had said relentless efforts have been made to pull down the government and he knew who have been behind it. To back his claim, the chief minister said one of the JD(S) MLAs had received a call from a BJP leader on Monday, who said the government's fall was imminent and if he agreed (to switch sides), he would dispatch Rs 10 crore at his location. Kumaraswamy, who did not reveal any names, said the BJP leader had also claimed that 10 MLAs from the ruling coalition were with them, and the government was going to fall. After the rout in the Lok Sabha polls, the ruling coalition fears an onslaught by the BJP to destabilise the government by taking advantage of the simmering discontent. The BJP and Yeddyurappa had earlier predicted the collapse of the coalition after the LS poll results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take "a decision" anytime. However, subsequently allaying fears that BJP was trying to weaken the JD(S)-Congress government in Karnataka, Yeddyurappa had said central leaders have asked the state unit not to indulge in any activity to "destabilise" the H D Kumaraswamy ministry.

Yeddyurappa hits back at Kumaraswamy over toppling bid charge

Political capital is not eternal, and Sonia Gandhi is one such example in Indian politics. Once a saviour, a person who renounced the position of the Prime Minister plainly and simply, today comes across as a dynast who has failed to gauge the change in society and decline of her organisation simultaneously.&nbsp;

A lot of blame has been heaped on Rahul Gandhi who has already conceded defeat but in essence, today's Congress is in shambles&nbsp;because Sonia Gandhi’s model of politics has collapsed with the generational shift in&nbsp;its core leadership.

When Sonia Gandhi, took charge of the Congress, the organisation was demoralised but existed in many states with plenty of leaders. Her work was primarily focused on getting the Congress families together all across India.&nbsp;

She did not overhaul the organisation. She only ensured that state satraps are aligned to the leadership who otherwise were not interested in listening to each other. The politics of regional satraps also worked because of mystique surrounding Sonia Gandhi. Sonia Gandhi had the deep sympathy of people because of the tragic circumstance in which Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated.

This model worked well till Sonia Gandhi was around and actively ensuring that satraps were allowed to perpetuate little dynasties at the regional and local level.

Ironically, the weakness lied at the heart of the 'Satrap system'. Unlike BJP, all of them could chart an independent journey outside the Congress fold, taking workers in lock stock and barrel with them.

Secondly, all the leaders pre-existed who were principally spawned by Indira and Sanjay Gandhi. I would say, primarily Sanjay Gandhi. Lastly, the only glue which kept the satraps together was power and not ideology. It is for this reason, Congress today witnesses exodus of leaders at an alarming level, emptying the party at district levels as workers never belonged to the organisation but to a set of local leaders.&nbsp;

Her lack of work on organisation and focus on individual-family connection politics not only added to the downfall in 2014 but also repeat defeat in 2019. The Congress calculation was again hinged on a number of regional and local dynasts who would be able to retain their seats. In 2019, the only party won and individual candidates barring odd few lost. It is only for the party work and smart alliance, Congress won seats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and for lack of organisation, all-star candidates lost to BJP which enjoys a heady combination of strong organisation married to charismatic leadership.&nbsp;

In a way, 2019 has ended Sonia Gandhi’s model of politics completely. Many would say as to where does Rahul Gandhi stand in all this? I would say that his tinkering with NSUI and Youth Congress acted as a catalyst for the demise of the system which was already rotting from within. Instead of picking and pushing fresh talent, elections made the process expensive, casting out poorer and not so rich aspirants.

He could also not organise the satraps on non-dynastic lines because he himself is a dynast and could not convince anybody of sacrifice their own children for the party’s health. In fact, he added to the dynasty by inducting his sister directly as a General Secretary. With no political equity, no organisation and incoherent ideology, it was a lost cause already.

Today, Sonia Gandhi only comes across as a dynast dressed up Nehruvian socialism which has been resoundingly defeated. 2019 also marks the coming of age for the national middle class which can make or break Indian elections.&nbsp;

There is a piece of advice which Congress can use.&nbsp;“Pehle Vichaar Hota hai, Vichaar Kee Neev Par Sangathan Banta hai Aur Sangathan ki Buniyad par Satta Miltee Hai."

The process seems to be in a reverse mode in Congress. The best example is&nbsp;that of Rahul Gandhi who in 2005 at Hyderabad Plenary said that national flag is his religion. The same man by 2017 became a Janeu Dhari Shiv Bhakta begging the question, which is the real Congress and what does it stands for today. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Political capital is not eternal, and Sonia Gandhi is one such example in Indian politics. Once a saviour, a person who renounced the position of the Prime Minister plainly and simply, today comes across as a dynast who has failed to gauge the change in society and decline of her organisation simultaneously.

Political capital is not eternal, and Sonia Gandhi is one such example in Indian politics. Once a saviour, a person who renounced the position of the Prime Minister plainly and simply, today comes across as a dynast who has failed to gauge the change in society and decline of her organisation simultaneously. A lot of blame has been heaped on Rahul Gandhi who has already conceded defeat but in essence, today's Congress is in shambles because Sonia Gandhi’s model of politics has collapsed with the generational shift in its core leadership. When Sonia Gandhi, took charge of the Congress, the organisation was demoralised but existed in many states with plenty of leaders. Her work was primarily focused on getting the Congress families together all across India. She did not overhaul the organisation. She only ensured that state satraps are aligned to the leadership who otherwise were not interested in listening to each other. The politics of regional satraps also worked because of mystique surrounding Sonia Gandhi. Sonia Gandhi had the deep sympathy of people because of the tragic circumstance in which Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated. This model worked well till Sonia Gandhi was around and actively ensuring that satraps were allowed to perpetuate little dynasties at the regional and local level. Ironically, the weakness lied at the heart of the 'Satrap system'. Unlike BJP, all of them could chart an independent journey outside the Congress fold, taking workers in lock stock and barrel with them. Secondly, all the leaders pre-existed who were principally spawned by Indira and Sanjay Gandhi. I would say, primarily Sanjay Gandhi. Lastly, the only glue which kept the satraps together was power and not ideology. It is for this reason, Congress today witnesses exodus of leaders at an alarming level, emptying the party at district levels as workers never belonged to the organisation but to a set of local leaders. Her lack of work on organisation and focus on individual-family connection politics not only added to the downfall in 2014 but also repeat defeat in 2019. The Congress calculation was again hinged on a number of regional and local dynasts who would be able to retain their seats. In 2019, the only party won and individual candidates barring odd few lost. It is only for the party work and smart alliance, Congress won seats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and for lack of organisation, all-star candidates lost to BJP which enjoys a heady combination of strong organisation married to charismatic leadership. In a way, 2019 has ended Sonia Gandhi’s model of politics completely. Many would say as to where does Rahul Gandhi stand in all this? I would say that his tinkering with NSUI and Youth Congress acted as a catalyst for the demise of the system which was already rotting from within. Instead of picking and pushing fresh talent, elections made the process expensive, casting out poorer and not so rich aspirants. He could also not organise the satraps on non-dynastic lines because he himself is a dynast and could not convince anybody of sacrifice their own children for the party’s health. In fact, he added to the dynasty by inducting his sister directly as a General Secretary. With no political equity, no organisation and incoherent ideology, it was a lost cause already. Today, Sonia Gandhi only comes across as a dynast dressed up Nehruvian socialism which has been resoundingly defeated. 2019 also marks the coming of age for the national middle class which can make or break Indian elections. There is a piece of advice which Congress can use. “Pehle Vichaar Hota hai, Vichaar Kee Neev Par Sangathan Banta hai Aur Sangathan ki Buniyad par Satta Miltee Hai." The process seems to be in a reverse mode in Congress. The best example is that of Rahul Gandhi who in 2005 at Hyderabad Plenary said that national flag is his religion. The same man by 2017 became a Janeu Dhari Shiv Bhakta begging the question, which is the real Congress and what does it stands for today. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Rise and fall of Sonia Gandhi

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