The second phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 is underway. Here are the details from Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur seat. Watch video to know more

LS Polls 2019: Congress vs BJP in Udhampur seat

Union Minister and BJP leader Maneka Gandhi on Thursday filed her nomination from the Sultanpur parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Before filing her nomination from the constituency,&nbsp;Maneka&nbsp;undertook a five-km-long roadshow.

Gandhi had earlier been a member of Parliament from Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit constituency, while her son Varun Gandhi had fought the elections from Sultanpur.

The BJP has swapped their seats this time.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Maneka had said, "The development works in Sultanpur, if I am elected, will continue in the same way they did in my previous constituency."

She also asserted that the work initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will "trump" the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

"I am sure that BJP will win the election and form government," she added.

Gandhi had earlier been issued a show-cause notice by the Election Commission for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur.

While addressing a rally in Sultanpur, Maneka had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power.

Following this, the EC had also banned Gandhi for campaigning for 48 hours.

The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11.&nbsp;

Sultanpur will vote on May 12.

The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minister and BJP leader Maneka Gandhi on Thursday filed her nomination from the Sultanpur parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Before filing her nomination from the constituency, Maneka undertook a five-km-long roadshow.

Union Minister and BJP leader Maneka Gandhi on Thursday filed her nomination from the Sultanpur parliamentary constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Before filing her nomination from the constituency, Maneka undertook a five-km-long roadshow. Gandhi had earlier been a member of Parliament from Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit constituency, while her son Varun Gandhi had fought the elections from Sultanpur. The BJP has swapped their seats this time. Speaking to news agency ANI, Maneka had said, "The development works in Sultanpur, if I am elected, will continue in the same way they did in my previous constituency." She also asserted that the work initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will "trump" the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh. "I am sure that BJP will win the election and form government," she added. Gandhi had earlier been issued a show-cause notice by the Election Commission for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur. While addressing a rally in Sultanpur, Maneka had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power. Following this, the EC had also banned Gandhi for campaigning for 48 hours. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11. Sultanpur will vote on May 12. The counting of votes will be held on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Union Minister Maneka Gandhi files nomination from Sultanpur

WION in conversation with Senior Journalist RK Upadhaya. BJP seeks re-entry in South India? BJP remains organisationally weak in Tamil Nadu. Decoding BJP's plan for Lok Sabha election 2019.

WION's exclusive conversation with Senior Journalist RK Upadhaya over BJP's South plan

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 17th April 2019.

India Election Watch; 17th April 2019

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday.

Polling will be held in Nagina (SC), Amroha, Bulandshahr (SC), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-aligarh-bjp-candidate-facing-strong-anti-incumbency-residents-say-unhappy-over-amu-row-211129">Aligarh</a>, Hathras (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Mathura and Agra (SC).

Fatehpur Sikri will see a triangular battle between Babbar, BJP's Rajkumar Chahar and BSP's Shreebhagwan Sharma, who is a two-time MLA from Debai assembly constituency of Bulandshahr.

While in the temple-town constituency of Mathura, Bollywood "dream girl" of yesteryears, Hema Malini, is seeking re-election after winning the seat in the 2014 general elections.

The other candidates in the fray are Kunwar Narendra Singh of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and Mahesh Pathak of the Congress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-phase-polls-bjp-mahagathbandhan-set-to-lock-horns-in-uttar-pradeshs-amroha-210709">In Amroha, sitting BJP MP Kanwar Singh Tanwar</a> will lock horns with Bahujan Samaj Party's Kunwar Danish Ali, who recently joined the party after quitting as the general secretary of the Janata Dal-Secular.

The eight Lok Sabha seats were bagged by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. This time it faces a tough fight from the SP-BSP-RLD alliance.

In this phase, the BSP has fielded candidates for six of the eight constituencies -- Nagina, Amroha, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The SP and the RLD have fielded one candidate each from Hathras and Mathura respectively.

Apart from Hema Malini and Tanwar, the BJP has retained three other MPs - Yashwant Singh (Nagina), Bhola Singh (Bulandshahr) and Satish Gautam (Aligarh).

The Election Commission has set up 16,162 polling booths in 8,751 polling centres for this phase in the state.

In Agra, UP animal husbandry, minor irrigation and fisheries minister S P Singh Baghel (BJP) will take on Preeta Harit of the Congress and Manoj Kumar Soni of the BSP.

In Aligarh, the fight is between Gautam (BJP), Ajeet Baliyan (BSP) and Bijendra Singh (Congress) while in Hathras, Rajvir Diler of the BJP will take on Ramji Lal Suman of the Samajwadi Party and Triloki Ram of the Congress.&nbsp;

In Bulandshahr, the contest figures Bhola Singh (BJP), Yogesh Verma (BSP) and Banshi Singh (Congress).

The Nagina constituency will see Singh defending his turf against Omvati Devi of the Congress and Girish Chandra of the BSP.

While Singh is a former SP leader, Devi has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday.

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday. Polling will be held in Nagina (SC), Amroha, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Hathras (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Mathura and Agra (SC). Fatehpur Sikri will see a triangular battle between Babbar, BJP's Rajkumar Chahar and BSP's Shreebhagwan Sharma, who is a two-time MLA from Debai assembly constituency of Bulandshahr. While in the temple-town constituency of Mathura, Bollywood "dream girl" of yesteryears, Hema Malini, is seeking re-election after winning the seat in the 2014 general elections. The other candidates in the fray are Kunwar Narendra Singh of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and Mahesh Pathak of the Congress. In Amroha, sitting BJP MP Kanwar Singh Tanwar will lock horns with Bahujan Samaj Party's Kunwar Danish Ali, who recently joined the party after quitting as the general secretary of the Janata Dal-Secular. The eight Lok Sabha seats were bagged by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. This time it faces a tough fight from the SP-BSP-RLD alliance. In this phase, the BSP has fielded candidates for six of the eight constituencies -- Nagina, Amroha, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The SP and the RLD have fielded one candidate each from Hathras and Mathura respectively. Apart from Hema Malini and Tanwar, the BJP has retained three other MPs - Yashwant Singh (Nagina), Bhola Singh (Bulandshahr) and Satish Gautam (Aligarh). The Election Commission has set up 16,162 polling booths in 8,751 polling centres for this phase in the state. In Agra, UP animal husbandry, minor irrigation and fisheries minister S P Singh Baghel (BJP) will take on Preeta Harit of the Congress and Manoj Kumar Soni of the BSP. In Aligarh, the fight is between Gautam (BJP), Ajeet Baliyan (BSP) and Bijendra Singh (Congress) while in Hathras, Rajvir Diler of the BJP will take on Ramji Lal Suman of the Samajwadi Party and Triloki Ram of the Congress. In Bulandshahr, the contest figures Bhola Singh (BJP), Yogesh Verma (BSP) and Banshi Singh (Congress). The Nagina constituency will see Singh defending his turf against Omvati Devi of the Congress and Girish Chandra of the BSP. While Singh is a former SP leader, Devi has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career.

Second phase polls in Uttar Pradesh to decide fate of Raj Babbar, Hema Malini

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves".

Addressing a poll rally, PM Modi also accused the Congress of insulting Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel and said the situation in India would have been different had the latter been the country's first prime minister.

The Prime Minister also attacked the Congress for labelling the middle class as "selfish" and alleged it brought price rise whenever it was in power.

"Division of communities is the only vision of the Congress," Modi told the public meeting.

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PM in Anand, Gujarat: Congress has said in its manifesto that it wants to remove the sedition law, so that stone pelting in J&amp;K &amp; Naxalism in rest of the places in the country can be strengthened, 'tukde tukde gang desh ke tukde karne ki apni shararatein khule aam kar paayein' <a href="https://t.co/Xqd1Ktqn9g">pic.twitter.com/Xqd1Ktqn9g</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1118511505001992192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The Congress' naamdar (dynast) termed the entire backward class as thieves. The insult inflicted on the honest in their (Congress) vendetta against Narendra Modi will not be tolerated," he said.

The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Patel "at every step to further the cause of the (Nehru-Gandhi) family".

He said Patel spent his life in uniting India but the Congress was busy embracing separatists.

He also hit out at the Congress for promising to abolish sedition law and reviewing of the AFSPA if it came to power.

"It wants to strengthen stone-pelters and ensure that the "tukde tukde gang" can easily chalk out a conspiracy to disintegrate the country," Modi said.

He said when the dynastic rule becomes the "sole vision", then they (Congress) resort to hurling abuses.

Modi said the Congress insulted attires of people from the north-eastern states and linked majority Hindus to terror.

Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra recently, Gandhi had said, "I have a question. Why all the thieves have Modi in their names whether be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Narendra Modi? We don't know how many more such Modis will come out."&nbsp;

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves".

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves". Addressing a poll rally, PM Modi also accused the Congress of insulting Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel and said the situation in India would have been different had the latter been the country's first prime minister. The Prime Minister also attacked the Congress for labelling the middle class as "selfish" and alleged it brought price rise whenever it was in power. "Division of communities is the only vision of the Congress," Modi told the public meeting. PM in Anand, Gujarat: Congress has said in its manifesto that it wants to remove the sedition law, so that stone pelting in J&K & Naxalism in rest of the places in the country can be strengthened, 'tukde tukde gang desh ke tukde karne ki apni shararatein khule aam kar paayein' pic.twitter.com/Xqd1Ktqn9g — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2019 × "The Congress' naamdar (dynast) termed the entire backward class as thieves. The insult inflicted on the honest in their (Congress) vendetta against Narendra Modi will not be tolerated," he said. The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Patel "at every step to further the cause of the (Nehru-Gandhi) family". He said Patel spent his life in uniting India but the Congress was busy embracing separatists. He also hit out at the Congress for promising to abolish sedition law and reviewing of the AFSPA if it came to power. "It wants to strengthen stone-pelters and ensure that the "tukde tukde gang" can easily chalk out a conspiracy to disintegrate the country," Modi said. He said when the dynastic rule becomes the "sole vision", then they (Congress) resort to hurling abuses. Modi said the Congress insulted attires of people from the north-eastern states and linked majority Hindus to terror. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra recently, Gandhi had said, "I have a question. Why all the thieves have Modi in their names whether be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Narendra Modi? We don't know how many more such Modis will come out."

Division of communities only vision of Congress: PM Modi

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malegaon-blast-case-sadhvi-pragya-and-lt-col-purohit-will-be-tried-under-uaps-act-along-with-other-accused-27869">facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case</a>, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat.

"I will contest the election from Bhopal and win. Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is with me," Thakur said, speaking after emerging out of the BJP office.

Thakur had recently said she was ready for a "Dharm Yudh".

"I am ready to take on Digvijay Singh if the sanghatan (organisation, apparently referring to the BJP) asks me to do so," Thakur had told PTI last month.

Born in Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh, Thakur has had a long association with the Sangh parivar.

A post-graduate in history, she worked with the RSS' student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Durga Vahini, women's wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.

Arrested in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, she was given a clean chit by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), but the trial court refused to discharge her from the case.

The court dropped the charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against her, and she is now being tried under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

She was granted bail by the Bombay High Court in 2017.

Six people were killed and over 100 injured when a bomb went off near a mosque in Malegaon in north Maharashtra, on September 29, 2008. According to the prosecution, it was the handiwork of a Hindu extremist group.

The BJP has been holding Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, where about 4.5 lakh of the 18 lakh voters are Muslim, since 1989.

According to sources, BJP leaders went into a huddle after Digvijay Singh's candidature was announced.

In the 2018 Assembly elections, the Congress won three out of the eight assembly segments in the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, and in the remaining segments the BJP's victory margin decreased.&nbsp;

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat.

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, who is facing trial in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, joined the BJP on Wednesday. Later in the day her name emerged in the party's list of candidates - Thakur has been fielded from Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal Lok Sabha seat. "I will contest the election from Bhopal and win. Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is with me," Thakur said, speaking after emerging out of the BJP office. Thakur had recently said she was ready for a "Dharm Yudh". "I am ready to take on Digvijay Singh if the sanghatan (organisation, apparently referring to the BJP) asks me to do so," Thakur had told PTI last month. Born in Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh, Thakur has had a long association with the Sangh parivar. A post-graduate in history, she worked with the RSS' student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Durga Vahini, women's wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. Arrested in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, she was given a clean chit by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), but the trial court refused to discharge her from the case. The court dropped the charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against her, and she is now being tried under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. She was granted bail by the Bombay High Court in 2017. Six people were killed and over 100 injured when a bomb went off near a mosque in Malegaon in north Maharashtra, on September 29, 2008. According to the prosecution, it was the handiwork of a Hindu extremist group. The BJP has been holding Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, where about 4.5 lakh of the 18 lakh voters are Muslim, since 1989. According to sources, BJP leaders went into a huddle after Digvijay Singh's candidature was announced. In the 2018 Assembly elections, the Congress won three out of the eight assembly segments in the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency, and in the remaining segments the BJP's victory margin decreased.

Pragya Singh joins BJP, set to take on Congress' Digvijaya Singh from Bhopal

Once a taboo, party hopping is now considered a virtue in western Uttar Pradesh with people looking at candidates who switch sides as "political heavyweights".

Old-timers, however, lament the "decline in moral standards" of the people and the candidates over the years.

"In the 1960s and 1970s if a candidate crossed over to the other party, he/she would have to face the wrath of the people and would be ostracised by his/her political supporters for doing it," says Prashant Goel, an advocate from Bijnor.

"I have seen my elders completely sever ties with those who would switch sides. But now it is not an issue, it is not about ideologies any more. The number of parties a candidate has changed adds to his/her CV and he/she is considered a political heavyweight," he said.

Earlier it was difficult to find candidates who have switched allegiance, but now one cannot find a constituency where candidates have not switched sides, Goel said. 
His argument holds true as the western UP Lok Sabha seats are full of such candidates who have been part of multiple parties in the past.

In Nagina, the incumbent MP, BJP's Yashwant Singh, had been with SP, while the Congress candidate, Omwati Devi, has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career.

Devi has an interesting track record when it comes to switching allegiance.

She started her political career in 1985 with the Congress, moved to SP in the 1990s, and then in 2007 joined BSP. Just before Lok Sabha polls in 2014, she left BSP and joined BJP.

However, she was not fielded by the BJP in the parliamentary election.

She fought the 2017 assembly polls on a BJP ticket, but lost the election.

Just ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, she and her husband R K Singh, a former IAS officer, returned to Congress.

"My original home was Congress, but due to certain circumstances, we strayed elsewhere and have now made a ghar wapsi," she said.

"I have gone to people and myself accepted that I made a mistake by going into BJP. But the public has not questioned me about it," she said.

The situation is no different in the Lok Sabha seats nearby.

In Bijnor, Naseemuddin Siddiqui, once considered Mayawati's close aide and one of the most powerful ministers in her cabinet, is the Congress candidate this time.

Not long ago, Danish Ali was the go-to man in H D Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular), but just ahead of the polls he joined the BSP and entered the poll fray from Amroha. He, however, had the blessings of Deve Gowda to make the switch.

In Rampur, Jaya Prada switched to BJP ahead of the polls and entered the fray on the saffron party's ticket after spending years in SP.

Shamim Ahmed, a 70-year-old owner of a sweets shop here, said: "There was a time when people used to get outraged by party hoppers and call them 'dal badlu', but now if there are four brothers in a family, all four of them will be in different parties and would have no qualms about switching allegiances, and neither would the people mind it."

Nadeem Khan, a pakoda seller, said: "We don't care if someone has switched sides, on the contrary it shows the leader is in demand. It shows the leader is a political heavyweight."

"We just want that work should be done and the leader should be willing to help us in times of trouble. This switching of parties does not matter, it is irrelevant," he said.

Rakesh Mishra, who has been a keen observer of politics of the region, said it is sad that party hopping is considered a virtue now, but reality needs to be accepted.

"Earlier there were not many options and political battles were fought on ideology. So, irrespective of the treatment in the party, you could not think of quitting it as the ideology of other parties did not match with yours. But now it is about winning, about power, so switching of allegiance has become a non-issue," he said.

Narrating an interesting anecdote, an old Congress worker said a leader who had spent his entire lifetime in Congress was asked to move to SP or BSP by his supporters to stay relevant politically in the 1990s.

"The leader gave a wry smile and recited a couplet in Urdu: 'Zindagi kat gayi ishq-e-butan mein Momin, aakhri waqt kya khaak Musalman honge? (Have spent my life worshipping idols, what is the point of turning Muslim in my last moments)," the teary-eyed party worker said, reminiscing the dedication leaders of the yore had for the organisation they spent their life in.

Once a taboo, party hopping is now considered a virtue in western Uttar Pradesh with people looking at candidates who switch sides as "political heavyweights". Old-timers, however, lament the "decline in moral standards" of the people and the candidates over the years.

Once a taboo, party hopping is now considered a virtue in western Uttar Pradesh with people looking at candidates who switch sides as "political heavyweights". Old-timers, however, lament the "decline in moral standards" of the people and the candidates over the years. "In the 1960s and 1970s if a candidate crossed over to the other party, he/she would have to face the wrath of the people and would be ostracised by his/her political supporters for doing it," says Prashant Goel, an advocate from Bijnor. "I have seen my elders completely sever ties with those who would switch sides. But now it is not an issue, it is not about ideologies any more. The number of parties a candidate has changed adds to his/her CV and he/she is considered a political heavyweight," he said. Earlier it was difficult to find candidates who have switched allegiance, but now one cannot find a constituency where candidates have not switched sides, Goel said. His argument holds true as the western UP Lok Sabha seats are full of such candidates who have been part of multiple parties in the past. In Nagina, the incumbent MP, BJP's Yashwant Singh, had been with SP, while the Congress candidate, Omwati Devi, has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career. Devi has an interesting track record when it comes to switching allegiance. She started her political career in 1985 with the Congress, moved to SP in the 1990s, and then in 2007 joined BSP. Just before Lok Sabha polls in 2014, she left BSP and joined BJP. However, she was not fielded by the BJP in the parliamentary election. She fought the 2017 assembly polls on a BJP ticket, but lost the election. Just ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election, she and her husband R K Singh, a former IAS officer, returned to Congress. "My original home was Congress, but due to certain circumstances, we strayed elsewhere and have now made a ghar wapsi," she said. "I have gone to people and myself accepted that I made a mistake by going into BJP. But the public has not questioned me about it," she said. The situation is no different in the Lok Sabha seats nearby. In Bijnor, Naseemuddin Siddiqui, once considered Mayawati's close aide and one of the most powerful ministers in her cabinet, is the Congress candidate this time. Not long ago, Danish Ali was the go-to man in H D Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular), but just ahead of the polls he joined the BSP and entered the poll fray from Amroha. He, however, had the blessings of Deve Gowda to make the switch. In Rampur, Jaya Prada switched to BJP ahead of the polls and entered the fray on the saffron party's ticket after spending years in SP. Shamim Ahmed, a 70-year-old owner of a sweets shop here, said: "There was a time when people used to get outraged by party hoppers and call them 'dal badlu', but now if there are four brothers in a family, all four of them will be in different parties and would have no qualms about switching allegiances, and neither would the people mind it." Nadeem Khan, a pakoda seller, said: "We don't care if someone has switched sides, on the contrary it shows the leader is in demand. It shows the leader is a political heavyweight." "We just want that work should be done and the leader should be willing to help us in times of trouble. This switching of parties does not matter, it is irrelevant," he said. Rakesh Mishra, who has been a keen observer of politics of the region, said it is sad that party hopping is considered a virtue now, but reality needs to be accepted. "Earlier there were not many options and political battles were fought on ideology. So, irrespective of the treatment in the party, you could not think of quitting it as the ideology of other parties did not match with yours. But now it is about winning, about power, so switching of allegiance has become a non-issue," he said. Narrating an interesting anecdote, an old Congress worker said a leader who had spent his entire lifetime in Congress was asked to move to SP or BSP by his supporters to stay relevant politically in the 1990s. "The leader gave a wry smile and recited a couplet in Urdu: 'Zindagi kat gayi ishq-e-butan mein Momin, aakhri waqt kya khaak Musalman honge? (Have spent my life worshipping idols, what is the point of turning Muslim in my last moments)," the teary-eyed party worker said, reminiscing the dedication leaders of the yore had for the organisation they spent their life in.

Party hopping - once a taboo, now a virtue in western UP

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest.

Satish Gautam of Bharatiya Janata Party is fighting "mahagathbandhan" candidate Ajeet Baliyan of Bahujan Samaj Party and Bijendra Singh of Congress in the election to be held on Thursday.

The BJP candidate appears to be banking on a division of the Muslim vote while the two opposition candidates are hoping for its consolidation in favour of one of them.

Sameer Mishra, a businessman, said he does not like the hard-line Gautam takes.

"People, like me, chose him to bring pro-people policies and not instigate controversies like the one he did in Aligarh Muslim University," Mishra said.

In May 2018, Gautam demanded the portrait of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, be removed from AMU student union office where it had been for decades. Violent protests ensued.

"This aggressive and communal attitude has shown him in bad light. We would have supported another BJP candidate but not him again," Mishra added.

But other residents of the city admitted that Gautam has a strong Brahmin voter base, about five lakh in the constituency.

Brahmins, Vaishya and Chatriya together make up about seven lakh of the total 18.73 lakh voters in Aligarh, a lock-making hub in western Uttar Pradesh.

There are 3.50 lakh Muslims voters while Jat, Yadav and Lodi account for four lakh. Around 3.50 lakh voters belong to SC/ST communities.

In 2014, Gautam won the seat by beating BSP's Arvind Kumar Singh by over two lakh votes. "But that time Gautam was riding on Modi wave. Things have changed since," said a BJP member, who did not wished to be named.

"There is strong opposition for Gautam by veteran leader Kalyan Singh who did not support his candidature and was vocal about it too within party cadres," the BJP member added.

"Another factor which might act against him is the anger brewing among lock industrialists who are extremely angry with him over demonetisation and high GST rate," said Tribhuvan Sarmisht, a tea seller on Shahjamal Road, a hub of small lock industries in the area.

Prakash Sharma, the owner of Rajput locks, agrees with him.

"Most of the industries on this road closed post demonetisation and GST implementation. Even my business is running in loss, it would definitely reflect in the result of the polls," Sharma said.

"I know Gautam wasn't directly responsible for demonetisation and GST but even our demands and situation was put forward by him which is his responsibility as an elected member," he said.

This anti-incumbency may benefit both Congress and mahagathbandhan who have promised to focus on education and improve the city's infrastructure, many residents feel.

A split in Muslim votes between Congress and mahagathbandhan may prove a challenge, the residents say, and added the mahagathbandhan candidate, Baliyan, a newcomer and Jat leader, has a better chance due to his strong support base also among SC/ST voters.

"It is high time that Muslims do tactical voting as that could play a very important role in the turnout in the election," said Ali Nadeem Rezavi, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University.

Nusrat Jahan, a primary school teacher, said the Congress candidate, Singh, has fought the election 12 times so she is thinking of giving the mahagathbandhan candidate a chance.

"It is yet to be seen how other voters think but for now, I think, Baliyan has a better chance as he would have the combined support of BSP-SP-RLD voters," she said.

Aligarh goes to poll in the second phase of elections on April 18. Khair, Baroli, Atroli, Kol and Aligarh city are assembly segments in the constituency.&nbsp;

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest.

The sitting BJP MP in Aligarh, which was at the centre of a raging controversy last year over Muhammad Ali Jinnah's portrait at the distinguished Aligarh Muslim University, is facing strong anti-incumbency and anger from traders, making the Lok Sabha election a three-cornered contest. Satish Gautam of Bharatiya Janata Party is fighting "mahagathbandhan" candidate Ajeet Baliyan of Bahujan Samaj Party and Bijendra Singh of Congress in the election to be held on Thursday. The BJP candidate appears to be banking on a division of the Muslim vote while the two opposition candidates are hoping for its consolidation in favour of one of them. Sameer Mishra, a businessman, said he does not like the hard-line Gautam takes. "People, like me, chose him to bring pro-people policies and not instigate controversies like the one he did in Aligarh Muslim University," Mishra said. In May 2018, Gautam demanded the portrait of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, be removed from AMU student union office where it had been for decades. Violent protests ensued. "This aggressive and communal attitude has shown him in bad light. We would have supported another BJP candidate but not him again," Mishra added. But other residents of the city admitted that Gautam has a strong Brahmin voter base, about five lakh in the constituency. Brahmins, Vaishya and Chatriya together make up about seven lakh of the total 18.73 lakh voters in Aligarh, a lock-making hub in western Uttar Pradesh. There are 3.50 lakh Muslims voters while Jat, Yadav and Lodi account for four lakh. Around 3.50 lakh voters belong to SC/ST communities. In 2014, Gautam won the seat by beating BSP's Arvind Kumar Singh by over two lakh votes. "But that time Gautam was riding on Modi wave. Things have changed since," said a BJP member, who did not wished to be named. "There is strong opposition for Gautam by veteran leader Kalyan Singh who did not support his candidature and was vocal about it too within party cadres," the BJP member added. "Another factor which might act against him is the anger brewing among lock industrialists who are extremely angry with him over demonetisation and high GST rate," said Tribhuvan Sarmisht, a tea seller on Shahjamal Road, a hub of small lock industries in the area. Prakash Sharma, the owner of Rajput locks, agrees with him. "Most of the industries on this road closed post demonetisation and GST implementation. Even my business is running in loss, it would definitely reflect in the result of the polls," Sharma said. "I know Gautam wasn't directly responsible for demonetisation and GST but even our demands and situation was put forward by him which is his responsibility as an elected member," he said. This anti-incumbency may benefit both Congress and mahagathbandhan who have promised to focus on education and improve the city's infrastructure, many residents feel. A split in Muslim votes between Congress and mahagathbandhan may prove a challenge, the residents say, and added the mahagathbandhan candidate, Baliyan, a newcomer and Jat leader, has a better chance due to his strong support base also among SC/ST voters. "It is high time that Muslims do tactical voting as that could play a very important role in the turnout in the election," said Ali Nadeem Rezavi, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University. Nusrat Jahan, a primary school teacher, said the Congress candidate, Singh, has fought the election 12 times so she is thinking of giving the mahagathbandhan candidate a chance. "It is yet to be seen how other voters think but for now, I think, Baliyan has a better chance as he would have the combined support of BSP-SP-RLD voters," she said. Aligarh goes to poll in the second phase of elections on April 18. Khair, Baroli, Atroli, Kol and Aligarh city are assembly segments in the constituency.

In Aligarh, BJP candidate facing strong anti-incumbency; residents say unhappy over AMU row

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory.

Addressing an election rally in Maharashtra's Sangli, Shah said, "The credit to bring development in Maharashtra goes to the BJP government as it lagged behind in every area under the rule of Congress and NCP. It was the BJP and Shiv Sena government who worked very hard to restore Maharashtra's lost glory."

"Rahul Baba is sympathising with the poor now. Sharad Pawar ruled for so many years... the Gandhi family ruled the country for five generations... But they did nothing for the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of the society," he said.

Comparing the funds allocated for the state under BJP and Congress government, Shah said, "Under the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government gave only Rs 1.15 billion for the development of Maharashtra. But, when you made Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of this country, Maharashtra received Rs 4 lakh 38 thousand 760 crores under the 14th Finance Commission."

The BJP president also lambasted the Congress for raising questions over the country's security. He said, "For ten years, there was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in the country; they put the security of the country at stake for vote bank. They did nothing even when our soldiers were beheaded by terrorists."

"There were only two countries in the world, which used to take revenge for the blood of their soldiers -- one America and the other is Israel. Now, the third is India under the Narendra Modi government. As this is a land of Shivaji Maharaj, our country's defence, security and culture are important for all of us. I can guarantee you that only Narendra Modi can secure them," Shah added.

Slamming the Congress for not adopting a tough approach on terror, Shah said that the most important task accomplished by the BJP government is providing security to the country. "Kashmir is an integral part of India and no one can separate it. Congress can't keep our country secure and safe. Only Prime Minister Modi is capable of doing this and we will adopt 'zero-tolerance'&nbsp;policy against terrorism."

"In Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah put a demand of having two prime ministers in the country, I want to ask Rahul Gandhi, what is his response to those who want to divide the country," he asked.

Claiming that Congress party, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati are supporting illegal migrants in the name of human rights, Shah said, "Why you are favouring them? Are they (illegal migrants) your 'chachere bhai'&nbsp;(cousins)? What about the bomb blasts orchestrated by them? They are like termites on the internal security of our country and our soldiers'&nbsp;rights."

Shah asserted that the BJP's Sankalp Patra (manifesto) is in the favour of the country and the party will ensure development in every sector. "We will ensure development in every sector as we are committed to 'sabka sath sabka vikas'. We have provided reservation to Savarn Samaj (community) and I have asked Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to give benefits to farmers through retrospective effect," he said.

The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Wednesday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar claiming that under their government Maharashtra lagged behind in every area and it was BJP and Shiv Sena which have restored the state's lost glory. Addressing an election rally in Maharashtra's Sangli, Shah said, "The credit to bring development in Maharashtra goes to the BJP government as it lagged behind in every area under the rule of Congress and NCP. It was the BJP and Shiv Sena government who worked very hard to restore Maharashtra's lost glory." "Rahul Baba is sympathising with the poor now. Sharad Pawar ruled for so many years... the Gandhi family ruled the country for five generations... But they did nothing for the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of the society," he said. Comparing the funds allocated for the state under BJP and Congress government, Shah said, "Under the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government gave only Rs 1.15 billion for the development of Maharashtra. But, when you made Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of this country, Maharashtra received Rs 4 lakh 38 thousand 760 crores under the 14th Finance Commission." The BJP president also lambasted the Congress for raising questions over the country's security. He said, "For ten years, there was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in the country; they put the security of the country at stake for vote bank. They did nothing even when our soldiers were beheaded by terrorists." "There were only two countries in the world, which used to take revenge for the blood of their soldiers -- one America and the other is Israel. Now, the third is India under the Narendra Modi government. As this is a land of Shivaji Maharaj, our country's defence, security and culture are important for all of us. I can guarantee you that only Narendra Modi can secure them," Shah added. Slamming the Congress for not adopting a tough approach on terror, Shah said that the most important task accomplished by the BJP government is providing security to the country. "Kashmir is an integral part of India and no one can separate it. Congress can't keep our country secure and safe. Only Prime Minister Modi is capable of doing this and we will adopt 'zero-tolerance' policy against terrorism." "In Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah put a demand of having two prime ministers in the country, I want to ask Rahul Gandhi, what is his response to those who want to divide the country," he asked. Claiming that Congress party, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati are supporting illegal migrants in the name of human rights, Shah said, "Why you are favouring them? Are they (illegal migrants) your 'chachere bhai' (cousins)? What about the bomb blasts orchestrated by them? They are like termites on the internal security of our country and our soldiers' rights." Shah asserted that the BJP's Sankalp Patra (manifesto) is in the favour of the country and the party will ensure development in every sector. "We will ensure development in every sector as we are committed to 'sabka sath sabka vikas'. We have provided reservation to Savarn Samaj (community) and I have asked Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to give benefits to farmers through retrospective effect," he said. The Lok Sabha polls for 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra began on April 11. It has been staggered in four phases till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.

BJP, Shiv Sena government restore Maharashtra's lost glory: Amit Shah

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 16th April 2019.

India Election Watch; 16th April 2019

In this edition of WION's Know Your Candidate, we feature National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah. Know more about her by watching this video.

India Election Watch: Know Your Candidate, who is Farooq Abdullah?

Lashing out at Congress chief over his comment “all thieves have Modi in their surnames”, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi Tuesday announced that he'll file a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Sushil Modi to file defamation case against Rahul Gandhi

In the interview Prakash Javadekar said, ''We are going to do very well in Rajasthan'' Watch complete video to know more.

Watch exclusive interview of HRD Minister & MP Prakash Javadekar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ravindra Jadeja for his selection in India's World Cup squad that was announced on Monday.&nbsp;

Jadeja, who is an all-rounder, got the ticket for England seeing his recent performance in the ODIs and 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL).

The wishes came after Jadeja had tagged Narendra Modi on Twitter, extending his support to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at a time when Lok Sabha elections are underway.&nbsp;

 
The Chennai cricketer has a strong bond with the ruling part of the nation as his wife Rivaba had joined the party last month in Jamnagar in the presence of the eminent BJP leaders from the state.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a>! 
 
And, congratulations on being selected for the Indian cricket team for the 2019 World Cup. My best wishes. <a href="https://t.co/wLbssqSoTB">https://t.co/wLbssqSoTB</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1117991838319771652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In fact, she is fighting for a seat from the Jamnagar constituency in the ongoing elections.

However, there were questions raised on Jadeja’s loyalty to BJP when two of his own family members surprisingly pledged their allegiance to BJP’s biggest opposition party Congress.&nbsp;

For the uninitiated, the ICC WOrld Cup will start from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ravindra Jadeja for his selection in India's World Cup squad that was announced on Monday. Jadeja, who is an all-rounder, got the ticket for England seeing his recent performance in the ODIs and 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ravindra Jadeja for his selection in India's World Cup squad that was announced on Monday. Jadeja, who is an all-rounder, got the ticket for England seeing his recent performance in the ODIs and 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL). The wishes came after Jadeja had tagged Narendra Modi on Twitter, extending his support to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at a time when Lok Sabha elections are underway. The Chennai cricketer has a strong bond with the ruling part of the nation as his wife Rivaba had joined the party last month in Jamnagar in the presence of the eminent BJP leaders from the state. Thank you @imjadeja! And, congratulations on being selected for the Indian cricket team for the 2019 World Cup. My best wishes. https://t.co/wLbssqSoTB — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 16, 2019 × In fact, she is fighting for a seat from the Jamnagar constituency in the ongoing elections. However, there were questions raised on Jadeja’s loyalty to BJP when two of his own family members surprisingly pledged their allegiance to BJP’s biggest opposition party Congress. For the uninitiated, the ICC WOrld Cup will start from May 30 to July 14.

PM Narendra Modi congratulates Ravindra Jadeja for being selected in India's World Cup squad

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-raids-continue-at-various-locations-in-madhya-pradesh-security-heightened-208681&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi0_Yr7itThAhUM6XMBHSm7AzYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3oa_gTVL_qZZMX3hh6t4Mz"> raids</a> at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership.

The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel.

JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta."

On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began.

The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC.

Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore.

The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets."

"The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks.

These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said.

The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.&nbsp;

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections. Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership. The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel. JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta." On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began. The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC. Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore. The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets." "The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks. These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said. The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.

IT raids at premises of people linked to JDS in Mandya, Hassan

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 15th April, 2019.

India Election Watch; 15th April 2019

Bhartiya Janata Party leader Maneka Gandhi censured for violating poll code. Watch video to know more

Maneka Gandhi censured for violating poll code

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide.&nbsp;

Modi instantly ensured that affected farmers got a higher compensation and that all the grain they produced was procured at the minimum support price (MSP).&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi was flustered by the criticism that he personally did not visit the affected families, but Modi was clear in his thoughts: He was the PM and his job was to take decisions and get the machinery to act. Modi knew perception matters first, but actions last forever.

The NDA – despite the Congress blitzkrieg – has done plenty to alleviate the plight of farmers. It has prepared soil health cards for 170 million individual farm holdings to improve productivity, provided water through completing irrigation projects, ensured power for pumps and neem-coated fertilisers to prevent adulteration.&nbsp;

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, an insurance scheme, now compensates the farmers for crops lost to natural calamities. He raised the MSP for grains and pulses.&nbsp;

Modinomics at work was at its best. Remember, when he had taken the oath, he had inherited an economy derisively scorned by both domestic and global investors.&nbsp;

India was a part of the ‘fragile five’ and there was the sword of Damocles of a credit rating downgrade to ‘Junk’ status. It was a precariously perched economy, akin to a poisoned chalice. But Modinomics has triggered a sturdy ballast to help India emerge as the world’s fifth largest (in GDP terms) and fastest growing economy.&nbsp;

So what has helped Modinomics’ work even as rivals stepped up their hate campaign? It was all about the nation and its economic growth. The most important trigger of Modinomics was the goods and services tax (GST) - the biggest indirect tax reform since Independence - which is now demolishing trade barriers, fuelling aggregate demand, compelling tax compliance, reworking logistics and manufacturing architecture.&nbsp;

It has done away with sub-scale operational outposts. What is in place is efficient, scalable and closer-to-consumer operational hubs, which are harmonising rates across states by demolishing trade barriers.&nbsp;

So who’s in trouble? Tax evading entities and unorganised brokers. The GST, in short, is giving a leg-up to aggregate demand by IBC regime for creating a transparent and legally-sound mechanism for resurrecting financially-distressed entities into viable, productive entities.&nbsp;

The World Bank says resolutions in &nbsp;Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) era is now taking 270 days, as compared to the pre-IBC era and its five-year period. In short, Modinomics is working.&nbsp;

Demonetisation - loudly criticised by the opposition - has been a brilliant force multiplier for the economy’s financialisation. It was like an assault on tax cheats, terror financiers and illicit carpetbaggers.&nbsp;

It helped the billion-plus nation to emerge out of its excessive reliance on a cash ecosystem that for generations, fuelled a dirty, dark, parallel economy, depriving India of legitimate taxes and posing tough challenges to law enforcement and security agencies.&nbsp;

It was Modinomics’ bold assault on tax cheats and cash hoarders, asking Indians to follow the rule of the law and not avoid taxes.&nbsp;

Indians realised increased tax means increased government expenditure on its people. The move also helped the mutual fund and insurance market, because a large chunk of cash in bank deposits moved through these intermediaries into the equity market.

Modinomics also did wonders when the government signed the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the maximum tolerable consumer inflation rate that RBI should target to achieve price stability.&nbsp;

In one shot, Prime Minister Modi made the RBI responsible through the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) for containing consumer inflation at 4 per cent -- with a standard deviation of 2 per cent -- in the medium term.&nbsp;

Hence, Modinomics tackled the issue of high inflation impacting the poor and - at the same time - encouraged long-term capital investments by businesses.&nbsp;

Realising that the previous government messed up natural resources, getting embroiled in big buck corruption scams like the Coal and 2G scandal, Modi turned auctioning of natural resources into a crystal clear, competitive and price optimising allotment of natural resources like coal, minerals, spectrum and land.

This is growth and power for a billion-plus nation.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-modinomics-has-played-big-role-in-india-s-growth-narrative-2739620">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide.

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide. Modi instantly ensured that affected farmers got a higher compensation and that all the grain they produced was procured at the minimum support price (MSP). Prime Minister Modi was flustered by the criticism that he personally did not visit the affected families, but Modi was clear in his thoughts: He was the PM and his job was to take decisions and get the machinery to act. Modi knew perception matters first, but actions last forever. The NDA – despite the Congress blitzkrieg – has done plenty to alleviate the plight of farmers. It has prepared soil health cards for 170 million individual farm holdings to improve productivity, provided water through completing irrigation projects, ensured power for pumps and neem-coated fertilisers to prevent adulteration. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, an insurance scheme, now compensates the farmers for crops lost to natural calamities. He raised the MSP for grains and pulses. Modinomics at work was at its best. Remember, when he had taken the oath, he had inherited an economy derisively scorned by both domestic and global investors. India was a part of the ‘fragile five’ and there was the sword of Damocles of a credit rating downgrade to ‘Junk’ status. It was a precariously perched economy, akin to a poisoned chalice. But Modinomics has triggered a sturdy ballast to help India emerge as the world’s fifth largest (in GDP terms) and fastest growing economy. So what has helped Modinomics’ work even as rivals stepped up their hate campaign? It was all about the nation and its economic growth. The most important trigger of Modinomics was the goods and services tax (GST) - the biggest indirect tax reform since Independence - which is now demolishing trade barriers, fuelling aggregate demand, compelling tax compliance, reworking logistics and manufacturing architecture. It has done away with sub-scale operational outposts. What is in place is efficient, scalable and closer-to-consumer operational hubs, which are harmonising rates across states by demolishing trade barriers. So who’s in trouble? Tax evading entities and unorganised brokers. The GST, in short, is giving a leg-up to aggregate demand by IBC regime for creating a transparent and legally-sound mechanism for resurrecting financially-distressed entities into viable, productive entities. The World Bank says resolutions in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) era is now taking 270 days, as compared to the pre-IBC era and its five-year period. In short, Modinomics is working. Demonetisation - loudly criticised by the opposition - has been a brilliant force multiplier for the economy’s financialisation. It was like an assault on tax cheats, terror financiers and illicit carpetbaggers. It helped the billion-plus nation to emerge out of its excessive reliance on a cash ecosystem that for generations, fuelled a dirty, dark, parallel economy, depriving India of legitimate taxes and posing tough challenges to law enforcement and security agencies. It was Modinomics’ bold assault on tax cheats and cash hoarders, asking Indians to follow the rule of the law and not avoid taxes. Indians realised increased tax means increased government expenditure on its people. The move also helped the mutual fund and insurance market, because a large chunk of cash in bank deposits moved through these intermediaries into the equity market. Modinomics also did wonders when the government signed the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the maximum tolerable consumer inflation rate that RBI should target to achieve price stability. In one shot, Prime Minister Modi made the RBI responsible through the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) for containing consumer inflation at 4 per cent -- with a standard deviation of 2 per cent -- in the medium term. Hence, Modinomics tackled the issue of high inflation impacting the poor and - at the same time - encouraged long-term capital investments by businesses. Realising that the previous government messed up natural resources, getting embroiled in big buck corruption scams like the Coal and 2G scandal, Modi turned auctioning of natural resources into a crystal clear, competitive and price optimising allotment of natural resources like coal, minerals, spectrum and land. This is growth and power for a billion-plus nation. (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.)

Modinomics has played big role in India’s growth narrative

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha.&nbsp;

What makes the contest in Amroha interesting is the fact that the result&nbsp;here, time and again, defies any set pattern. While the seat currently rests with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 2009 Rashtriya Lok Dal's Devendra Nagpal had registered a victory here.&nbsp;

In 2004, the constituency went to an independent candidate, whereas Mayawati's BSP swept the polls in 1999.&nbsp;

Caste factor

The caste factor turns around the tables almost every time in Amroha, making it nearly impossible to predict the verdict here. The region, although dominated by Muslims, also sees considerable numbers of Jats - a double-edged sword, strong enough to swing results. Dalits also enjoy a sizeable presence, especially in the rural areas.

BJP versus Mahagathbandhan?

This time around, there seems to be a direct contest between the BJP and the Mahagathbandhan. BJP's incumbent MP Kanwar Singh is set to lock horns with Danish Ali, Janata Dal (S) ex-general secretary who is fighting on a BSP ticket. Congress had earlier given a ticket to BSP-turncoat Rashid Alvi but later decided to field Sachin Chaudhary.&nbsp;

Congress'&nbsp;weak report card&nbsp;

Interestingly, the seat has never fallen into Congress' kitty after 1984 when Ram Pal Singh won from the constituency. Since then, the electoral battle here has been largely alternating.

What's at stake?

Of late, the saffron party has been facing a negative sentiment from the region with the local Gujjar community expressing dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Kanwar Singh. Dalit Muslim polarization may negatively affect BJP's prospects.&nbsp;

BSP may suffer because of its former MP Rashid Alvi switching camps and walking over to the Congress' side. However, the party's hopes run high with the Dalits, especially the Muslim-Dalit population, of the region.&nbsp;

Although an INC candidate, traditionally, has been the weakest in the electoral fight in Amroha, it won't be a surprise if Sachin Chaudhary manages to snatch the constituency away for Congress this general election. He is the lone Dalit candidate and has age on his side, however, it must not be overlooked that he is set for a battle against much more experienced and established opponents.

Under the SP-BSP alliance, Mayawati's party will be contesting in 38 Lok Sabha seats of the total 80 seats while Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party will fight in 37 seats with three seats going to Chaudhary Ajit Singh's Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). The alliance has decided not to fight for Congress strongholds in Raebareli and Amethi.&nbsp;

Amroha will go polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 18. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha.

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha. What makes the contest in Amroha interesting is the fact that the result here, time and again, defies any set pattern. While the seat currently rests with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 2009 Rashtriya Lok Dal's Devendra Nagpal had registered a victory here. In 2004, the constituency went to an independent candidate, whereas Mayawati's BSP swept the polls in 1999. Caste factor The caste factor turns around the tables almost every time in Amroha, making it nearly impossible to predict the verdict here. The region, although dominated by Muslims, also sees considerable numbers of Jats - a double-edged sword, strong enough to swing results. Dalits also enjoy a sizeable presence, especially in the rural areas. BJP versus Mahagathbandhan? This time around, there seems to be a direct contest between the BJP and the Mahagathbandhan. BJP's incumbent MP Kanwar Singh is set to lock horns with Danish Ali, Janata Dal (S) ex-general secretary who is fighting on a BSP ticket. Congress had earlier given a ticket to BSP-turncoat Rashid Alvi but later decided to field Sachin Chaudhary. Congress' weak report card Interestingly, the seat has never fallen into Congress' kitty after 1984 when Ram Pal Singh won from the constituency. Since then, the electoral battle here has been largely alternating. What's at stake? Of late, the saffron party has been facing a negative sentiment from the region with the local Gujjar community expressing dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Kanwar Singh. Dalit Muslim polarization may negatively affect BJP's prospects. BSP may suffer because of its former MP Rashid Alvi switching camps and walking over to the Congress' side. However, the party's hopes run high with the Dalits, especially the Muslim-Dalit population, of the region. Although an INC candidate, traditionally, has been the weakest in the electoral fight in Amroha, it won't be a surprise if Sachin Chaudhary manages to snatch the constituency away for Congress this general election. He is the lone Dalit candidate and has age on his side, however, it must not be overlooked that he is set for a battle against much more experienced and established opponents. Under the SP-BSP alliance, Mayawati's party will be contesting in 38 Lok Sabha seats of the total 80 seats while Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party will fight in 37 seats with three seats going to Chaudhary Ajit Singh's Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). The alliance has decided not to fight for Congress strongholds in Raebareli and Amethi. Amroha will go polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 18. The results will be declared on May 23.

Second phase polls: BJP, Mahagathbandhan set to lock horns in Uttar Pradesh's Amroha

India's IT capital, Bangalore (North) parliamentary constituency which is part of four constituencies -&nbsp;Bangalore Rural, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South - would be going to the polls in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-phase-polls-bjp-tmc-eye-darjeeling-in-west-bengal-battle-209751">the second phase of elections</a> on April 18th.

The constituency was late Congress leader C.K.Jaffer Sharieff's bastion. The former Congress railway minister won consequentively from here in 1977 to 1991. He again won the seat in 1998 and 1999.

The BJP finally beat Sharieff in 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha polls when HT Sangliana and DB Chandra Gowda got the better of the Congress leader.&nbsp;

In a historic twist in&nbsp;1984 Lok Sabha polls, late defence minister George Fernandes had stood from here against Sharieff who beat him. In 2014, the constituency had recorded a relatively low 56 per voter turnout, however, it was higher than in 2009 when 47 per cent people opted to vote.

This time voter turnout would play a huge role for the BJP as the anti-incumbency factor could work against it with the JD(S)-Congress coalition eager to exploit any&nbsp;BJP weakness.

Interestingly, Bangalore has a history of recording low voter turnout with the urban voters mostly staying away from polls, the BJP and JD(S)-Congress would be hoping it is different this time.&nbsp;

Former Karnataka chief minister and Union minister Sadananda Gowda, 66, who is the sitting MP will be fighting again from here. Sadananda Gowda will take on Congress's Krishna Byre Gowda, 46, who is the state's rural development, law and parliamentary affairs minister in CM Kumaraswamy's cabinet.

Sadananda Gowda got over 7 lakh votes in 2014 beating his Congress rival C. Narayaswamy who garnered over 4.8 lakh votes. Sadananda finally won with a thumping 229,764 votes over his rival.&nbsp;

The BJP had swept <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-high-octane-faceoff-between-two-powerful-daughters-thoothukudi-209778">all four Lok Sabha constituencies</a>&nbsp;in Bangalore in 2014.

Congress is also banking on the "Gowda factor" with Krishna Byre Gowda set to take on his BJP rival. He is the face of the JD(S)-Congress coalition. JD(S) is hoping&nbsp;Krishna Byre Gowda pulls&nbsp;the vital upper caste Vokkaliga votes, which has been BJP's prime vote bank in the last two elections.

The effect of the Gowda factor is such that several JD(S) party workers wanted party supremo H D Deve Gowda to contest from here, however, in the end, the ruling party in the state decided to go with its seat-sharing agreement with the Congress.

Congress candidate Krishna hails from a political family, his father, C. Byre Gowda, was a JD(U) leader. He had earlier lost the elections in 2009. The American University graduate is also an agriculturalist.

A crucial factor which could work in BJP's favour is the BSP which is also fighting from here with Syed Hydri Babloo representing the party. Mayawati's party to keen to pick up lower caste votes, which could work against the JD(S)-Congress coalition. It could well be the joker in the pack.

The results to be declared on May 23rd is too close to call with the second phase election in the crucial Bangalore constituency&nbsp;set to be a cliffhanger.

India's IT capital, Bangalore (North) parliamentary constituency which is part of four constituencies - Bangalore Rural, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South - would be going to the polls in the second phase of elections on April 18th.

India's IT capital, Bangalore (North) parliamentary constituency which is part of four constituencies - Bangalore Rural, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South - would be going to the polls in the second phase of elections on April 18th. The constituency was late Congress leader C.K.Jaffer Sharieff's bastion. The former Congress railway minister won consequentively from here in 1977 to 1991. He again won the seat in 1998 and 1999. The BJP finally beat Sharieff in 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha polls when HT Sangliana and DB Chandra Gowda got the better of the Congress leader. In a historic twist in 1984 Lok Sabha polls, late defence minister George Fernandes had stood from here against Sharieff who beat him. In 2014, the constituency had recorded a relatively low 56 per voter turnout, however, it was higher than in 2009 when 47 per cent people opted to vote. This time voter turnout would play a huge role for the BJP as the anti-incumbency factor could work against it with the JD(S)-Congress coalition eager to exploit any BJP weakness. Interestingly, Bangalore has a history of recording low voter turnout with the urban voters mostly staying away from polls, the BJP and JD(S)-Congress would be hoping it is different this time. Former Karnataka chief minister and Union minister Sadananda Gowda, 66, who is the sitting MP will be fighting again from here. Sadananda Gowda will take on Congress's Krishna Byre Gowda, 46, who is the state's rural development, law and parliamentary affairs minister in CM Kumaraswamy's cabinet. Sadananda Gowda got over 7 lakh votes in 2014 beating his Congress rival C. Narayaswamy who garnered over 4.8 lakh votes. Sadananda finally won with a thumping 229,764 votes over his rival. The BJP had swept all four Lok Sabha constituencies in Bangalore in 2014. Congress is also banking on the "Gowda factor" with Krishna Byre Gowda set to take on his BJP rival. He is the face of the JD(S)-Congress coalition. JD(S) is hoping Krishna Byre Gowda pulls the vital upper caste Vokkaliga votes, which has been BJP's prime vote bank in the last two elections. The effect of the Gowda factor is such that several JD(S) party workers wanted party supremo H D Deve Gowda to contest from here, however, in the end, the ruling party in the state decided to go with its seat-sharing agreement with the Congress. Congress candidate Krishna hails from a political family, his father, C. Byre Gowda, was a JD(U) leader. He had earlier lost the elections in 2009. The American University graduate is also an agriculturalist. A crucial factor which could work in BJP's favour is the BSP which is also fighting from here with Syed Hydri Babloo representing the party. Mayawati's party to keen to pick up lower caste votes, which could work against the JD(S)-Congress coalition. It could well be the joker in the pack. The results to be declared on May 23rd is too close to call with the second phase election in the crucial Bangalore constituency set to be a cliffhanger.

Second phase polls: It is Gowda vs Gowda in Bangalore North

A whopping 99.8 per cent of donations received by political parties was through <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-electoral-bonds-209818">electoral bonds</a> of the highest denominations -- Rs 10 lakh and Rs one crore -- between March 2018 and January 24, 2019, revealed data obtained under the RTI Act.

Donors purchased bonds worth Rs 1,407.09 crore of which Rs 1,403.90 crore were in the highest denominations of Rs ten lakh and Rs one crore during the period.

Social worker Chandrashekhar Goud shared the data received from State Bank of India (SBI) through an RTI query.

The donors bought 1,459 electoral bonds of a denomination of Rs ten lakh and 1,258 bonds of Rs one crore denomination. They purchased 318 bonds of Rs one lakh, 12 bonds of Rs 10,000 and 24 bonds of Rs 1000 denomination, according to the RTI reply.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/political-parties-must-submit-details-of-funding-through-electoral-bonds-says-supreme-court-209753">Electoral bonds</a> worth Rs 1,395.89 crore were redeemed by the parties.&nbsp;

Gaud had also asked the bank how many parties redeemed the bonds and worth how much money, but the SBI did not disclose it, saying it was in fiduciary capacity disclosure which is exempted under Section 8 (1) (e) and (j) of the RTI Act.

Electoral bonds were sold by the State Bank of India (SBI) in seven tranches. They were sold in five denominations of Rs 1,000, Rs 10,000, Rs 1 lakh, Rs 10 lakh, and Rs 1 crore.&nbsp;

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a voluntary organisation, working for political reforms, had approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the sale of electoral bonds.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Supreme Court refused to suspend the political funding through electoral bonds but, did introduce conditions to bring transparency in the process.&nbsp;

A whopping 99.8 per cent of donations received by political parties was through electoral bonds of the highest denominations -- Rs 10 lakh and Rs one crore -- between March 2018 and January 24, 2019, revealed data obtained under the RTI Act.

A whopping 99.8 per cent of donations received by political parties was through electoral bonds of the highest denominations -- Rs 10 lakh and Rs one crore -- between March 2018 and January 24, 2019, revealed data obtained under the RTI Act. Donors purchased bonds worth Rs 1,407.09 crore of which Rs 1,403.90 crore were in the highest denominations of Rs ten lakh and Rs one crore during the period. Social worker Chandrashekhar Goud shared the data received from State Bank of India (SBI) through an RTI query. The donors bought 1,459 electoral bonds of a denomination of Rs ten lakh and 1,258 bonds of Rs one crore denomination. They purchased 318 bonds of Rs one lakh, 12 bonds of Rs 10,000 and 24 bonds of Rs 1000 denomination, according to the RTI reply. Electoral bonds worth Rs 1,395.89 crore were redeemed by the parties. Gaud had also asked the bank how many parties redeemed the bonds and worth how much money, but the SBI did not disclose it, saying it was in fiduciary capacity disclosure which is exempted under Section 8 (1) (e) and (j) of the RTI Act. Electoral bonds were sold by the State Bank of India (SBI) in seven tranches. They were sold in five denominations of Rs 1,000, Rs 10,000, Rs 1 lakh, Rs 10 lakh, and Rs 1 crore. The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a voluntary organisation, working for political reforms, had approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the sale of electoral bonds. On Friday, the Supreme Court refused to suspend the political funding through electoral bonds but, did introduce conditions to bring transparency in the process.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Parties got 99.8% donations through electoral bonds, says RTI

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/both-ali-and-bajrang-bali-ours-says-bsp-chief-mayawati-210164">Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati</a> from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively. As per reports, the ban will come into effect from Tuesday 6 am.&nbsp;

The leaders are facing the ban for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2ahnGm9Yyt8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The Election Commission on Monday "strongly condemned" Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati for their communal remarks and barred them from campaigning for different periods.

The two have also been "censured".

The development comes after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-takes-note-of-alleged-hate-speeches-made-by-mayawati-adityanath-210525">Supreme Court, earlier in the day, took note of the alleged hate speeches</a> made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering, news agency PTI reported. &nbsp;

"The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during the poll campaign.

"Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections.&nbsp;

Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found.&nbsp;

Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut.

He compared the Lok Sabha elections to a contest between 'Ali', a revered figure in Islam, and Bajrang Bali, the Hindu god Hanuman.

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Election Commission bans UP CM Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 hours &amp; 48 hours respectively, starting from 6 am tomorrow, for violating Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/j1cYzMY8Mr">pic.twitter.com/j1cYzMY8Mr</a>
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On Saturday, giving her own twist to Yogi Adityanath's recent comment, BSP chief Mayawati said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali - particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP.

"In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively.

The Election Commission of India on Monday banned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 and 48 hours respectively. As per reports, the ban will come into effect from Tuesday 6 am. The leaders are facing the ban for violating the Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches, news agency ANI reported. The Election Commission on Monday "strongly condemned" Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati for their communal remarks and barred them from campaigning for different periods. The two have also been "censured". The development comes after the Supreme Court, earlier in the day, took note of the alleged hate speeches made by BSP supremo Mayawati and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during poll campaign and sought to know from the Election Commission the action initiated against them so far. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi summoned a representative of the EC for Tuesday while agreeing to examine the poll panel's contention that it has the limited legal power to deal with hate speeches of politicians during electioneering, news agency PTI reported. "The EC says they are toothless. They say that they first issue a notice, then advisory and then complain," the bench said, adding it would examine the aspect relating to poll panel's power to deal with hate speeches during the poll campaign. "Tell us what actions you have taken against Mayawati and Yogi Adityanath," the bench asked and fixed the matter for tomorrow. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by an NRI Yoga teacher based in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a direction to the EC to take "strict action" against political parties if their spokespersons make remarks based on caste and religion in the media in the run-up to general elections. Mayawati was issued the notice for her speech in Deoband appealing to Muslims to not vote for a particular party. The BSP chief had prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the poll panel found. Adityanath was served the notice for his "Ali" and "Bajrang Bali" remarks while addressing a rally in Meerut. He compared the Lok Sabha elections to a contest between 'Ali', a revered figure in Islam, and Bajrang Bali, the Hindu god Hanuman. Election Commission bans UP CM Yogi Adityanath and BSP chief Mayawati from election campaigning for 72 hours & 48 hours respectively, starting from 6 am tomorrow, for violating Model Code of Conduct by making objectionable statements in their speeches. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/j1cYzMY8Mr — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 15, 2019 × On Saturday, giving her own twist to Yogi Adityanath's recent comment, BSP chief Mayawati said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali - particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste". Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP. "In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Election Commission bars Yogi Adityanath from campaigning for 3 days, Mayawati for 2 days

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday.

Ahmed participated in a roadshow, accompanied by Bengali Tollywood actors Ankush and Payal from Karandighi to Islampur through the Bengal-to-Bengal road.

After road show, Ahmed took the stage for Trinamool Congress’ election campaign and said, “All should vote for the Trinamool Congress. All should vote for didi.”

Meanwhile, the Bhartiya Janta Party has moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed.

“This is illegal. This is a violation of the MCC. This proves Trinamool Congress’ love for Bangladeshis. They want to consolidate minority votes in this constituency by inviting Bangladeshi actors to campaign for them. We have moved Election Commission demanding action against the Trinamool Congress,” said BJP leader Pratap Banerjee.

On the other hand, the Election Commission communicated to this correspondent that they have received a complaint and are looking into it.

However, Trinamool Congress has maintained that there was nothing wrong in roping in the Bangladeshi actor for the campaign.&nbsp;

“Our contribution for Bangladesh in the 1971 Liberation War has been immense. And I do not feel that we have done anything wrong by inviting Ferdous to campaign for us here. We will not do anything that is anti-national, illegal or violates the Model Code of Conduct. If the commission takes action against us, they must also take action against BJP candidates and leaders flashing arms and swords on Ramnavami during the election period,” said former Trinamool Congress minister Madan Mitra.

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday.

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday. Ahmed participated in a roadshow, accompanied by Bengali Tollywood actors Ankush and Payal from Karandighi to Islampur through the Bengal-to-Bengal road. After road show, Ahmed took the stage for Trinamool Congress’ election campaign and said, “All should vote for the Trinamool Congress. All should vote for didi.” Meanwhile, the Bhartiya Janta Party has moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed. “This is illegal. This is a violation of the MCC. This proves Trinamool Congress’ love for Bangladeshis. They want to consolidate minority votes in this constituency by inviting Bangladeshi actors to campaign for them. We have moved Election Commission demanding action against the Trinamool Congress,” said BJP leader Pratap Banerjee. On the other hand, the Election Commission communicated to this correspondent that they have received a complaint and are looking into it. However, Trinamool Congress has maintained that there was nothing wrong in roping in the Bangladeshi actor for the campaign. “Our contribution for Bangladesh in the 1971 Liberation War has been immense. And I do not feel that we have done anything wrong by inviting Ferdous to campaign for us here. We will not do anything that is anti-national, illegal or violates the Model Code of Conduct. If the commission takes action against us, they must also take action against BJP candidates and leaders flashing arms and swords on Ramnavami during the election period,” said former Trinamool Congress minister Madan Mitra.

Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed campaigns for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal; BJP alleges code violation

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar.&nbsp;

On Sunday. the BJP released its 20th list of Lok Sabha candidates, naming six nominees from Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

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Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Bharatiya Janata Party announces list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh ; Ravi Kishan (in file pic) to contest from Gorakhpur and Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar (Sharad Tripathi is the sitting MP from Sant Kabir Nagar) <a href="https://t.co/myUwtpOF50">pic.twitter.com/myUwtpOF50</a>
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Among the six candidates, Union Minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh will be contesting from Hisar parliamentary constituency in Haryana.

The other candidates that the party fielded are - Arvind Sharma from Rohtak (Haryana), Jaskaur Meena from Dausa (Rajasthan), Bishnu Dutt Sharma from Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), GS Damor from Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) and Chattar Singh Darbar from Dhar (Madhya Pradesh).

The party also named Pratush Kumar Mondal as its nominee for the by-election to Uluberia Purba Assembly seat in West Bengal.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced a list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh. Actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan has been fielded from BJP-stronghold Gorakhpur, Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar. On Sunday. the BJP released its 20th list of Lok Sabha candidates, naming six nominees from Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Bharatiya Janata Party announces list of seven candidates for Uttar Pradesh ; Ravi Kishan (in file pic) to contest from Gorakhpur and Praveen Nishad to contest from Sant Kabir Nagar (Sharad Tripathi is the sitting MP from Sant Kabir Nagar) pic.twitter.com/myUwtpOF50 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 15, 2019 × Among the six candidates, Union Minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh will be contesting from Hisar parliamentary constituency in Haryana. The other candidates that the party fielded are - Arvind Sharma from Rohtak (Haryana), Jaskaur Meena from Dausa (Rajasthan), Bishnu Dutt Sharma from Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), GS Damor from Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) and Chattar Singh Darbar from Dhar (Madhya Pradesh). The party also named Pratush Kumar Mondal as its nominee for the by-election to Uluberia Purba Assembly seat in West Bengal. (With inputs from ANI)

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 7 candidates for UP, fields Ravi Kishan from Gorakhpur

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.

"By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here.

"For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked.

The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

"On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said.

Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side. "By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here. "For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked. The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi. "On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said. Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Not fighting on all seats in UP sign of Congress accepting defeat: Smriti Irani

The BJP is popular among the upper castes and in northern India. With the largest number of membership, the BJP today is one of the largest parties in the world.

Tracing the history of Bharatiya Janata Party

Priyanka Gandhi addresses rally along with Rahul Gandhi in Fatehpur Sikri of UP. Watch the complete video to know more.

Priyanka Gandhi addresses rally in Fatehpur Sikri in UP along with Rahul Gandhi

Three months after the surprise political debut of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/attempt-being-made-to-destroy-the-constitution-priyanka-gandhi-210337">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a>, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters?

She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-govt-lamented-after-terror-attacks-we-killed-terrorists-in-their-home-pm-modi-210390">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> from his home constituency, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-decision-yet-on-priyanka-gandhi-contesting-from-varanasi-rajeev-shukla-208559">Varanasi</a>, this Lok Sabha polls.

In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday.

As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet.

Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature.&nbsp;

Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh

Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-constituency-to-watch-out-for-this-election-207981">Varanasi goes to polls on May 19</a>.&nbsp;

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls.

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls. In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday. As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet. Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature. Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. Varanasi goes to polls on May 19.

Lok Sabha polls: With Congress tight-lipped about Varanasi candidate, speculations pit Priyanka Gandhi against PM Modi in his home constituency

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’

“Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event.

“As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman.

The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks.

“Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.”

“No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said.

“That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman.

Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

“The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said.

Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots.

“Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.”

“His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said.

Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport.

“Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.”

Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country.

“Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.&nbsp;

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’ “Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event. “As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks. “Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.” “No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said. “That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman. Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. “The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said. Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots. “Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.” “His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said. Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport. “Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.” Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country. “Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.

Political will was lacking to retaliate 2008 Mumbai terror attack: Nirmala Sitharaman

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls.

The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-to-approach-supreme-court-again-to-demand-verification-of-50-votes-by-paper-trails-210298">so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi</a> is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said.

Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail.

The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said.

The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said.

The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra.

Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family".

"Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged.

Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004.

Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP.

"Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said.

He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes.

"People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said.

Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress."

Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said.

Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.&nbsp;

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said. "The so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said. Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail. The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said. The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said. The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra. Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family". "Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged. Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004. Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP. "Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said. He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes. "People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said. Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress." Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said. Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.

Party meeting is confession of defeat by so-called Mahagathbandhan: BJP

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