Ahead of the Maharashtra by-polls to be held in the Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats on Monday the BJP and its alliance partner in the state and at the Centre Shiv Sena have accused each other of bribing voters.

The Shiv Sena has written to the Election Commission accusing the BJP of trying to influence voters of the Palghar constituency by bribing them.

While the BJP has also claimed that the Shiv Sena employed people to distribute money to voters in the Palghar constituency.

BJP leader Ravindra Chavan said, "The BJP is going to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission that the Sena has brought 1,000 people from (neighbouring) Thane, Mumbai and Kalyan who are staying illegally in Palghar even after the campaigning is over, and they are distributing money (to voters)".

He also added that the people who were found distributing money also included criminals.&nbsp;

The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district

Ahead of the Maharashtra by-polls to be held in the Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats on Monday the BJP and its alliance partner in the state and at the Centre Shiv Sena have accused each other of bribing voters. The Shiv Sena has written to the Election Commission accusing the BJP of trying to influence voters of the Palghar constituency by bribing them. While the BJP has also claimed that the Shiv Sena employed people to distribute money to voters in the Palghar constituency. BJP leader Ravindra Chavan said, "The BJP is going to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission that the Sena has brought 1,000 people from (neighbouring) Thane, Mumbai and Kalyan who are staying illegally in Palghar even after the campaigning is over, and they are distributing money (to voters)". He also added that the people who were found distributing money also included criminals. The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district. (With inputs from PTI)

Ahead of Maharashtra by-polls, Shiv Sena, BJP accuse each other of bribing voters

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in last four years did politics which was in spirit different from his predecessors. He made every state important and ensured that his campaign makes a difference to the fortune of the party. 
&nbsp; 
Modi in a way became a factor in politics where he divided and united the electorate at the same time. The undivided Hindu vote will remain biggest of his legacy. His appeal brought different segments of Dalits, OBCs and upper castes into BJP's fold but at the same time his politics has ended up creating great anxiety in the minority and people with Left liberal ideology. He has united a diverse population under the new rubric of cultural nationalism but sidelined views who believe in constitutional nationalism. This debate has united and divided the country like never before. 
&nbsp; 
Modi's politics ended minority exceptionalism in Indian politics but at the same time allowed crude majoritarianism to dominate political discourse. It allowed people to write and talk about violence perpetrated by minorities too. But it also created viciousness where a small child's rape in Jammu was being seen from the prism of community. Same happened on the nationalism debate. This time BJP turned the table on Congress. Congress, which used to call BJP anti-national for not participating in freedom struggle, was tagged as anti-national by BJP when it lent its support to a protest in JNU. It became part of a larger debate on nationalism. For the first time in history, Congress was being called anti-national. It united and divided India at the same time. It disallowed any intellectual discussion on the issue of patriotism and nationalism in mainstream but allowed coarse majority's view of the world to prevail. 
&nbsp; 
Modi's politics allowed communities more say and share in the political discourse. Whether it was cow protection or conservative stand on films like Padmavat, Modi's politics allowed these individual voices to dominate. Individual voices were labelled as detached from the ethos of the Indian society. This led to violation of the spirit of the Constitution. Indian Constitution acknowledges individual rights. Communities are protected but do not enjoy right over an individual. But in case of Padmavat, community's honour became more important than individual right. BJP on this sided with community pride. It made liberals look undemocratic in world view as if they are not sensitive to the subaltern world view. It again created a divide. 
&nbsp; 
Modi's politics ended Congress arrogance by attacking the principle of dynasty. Modi made dynasty into an issue which he continues to use during every state elections. It divided and united lot of people at the same time. His attack on the Gandhi family was a first of its kind. He broke the political Omerta code. It also unnerved lot of people in his party.

Modi's politics also tried to make up for the bankruptcy of RSS as a major figure during independence. His politics successfully stole couple of Congress icons like Netaji and Sardar Patel. It again created a political divide. BJP was accused of using historical figures to serve contemporary political interest. The case in point is Netaji papers appearing a year before Bengal elections. 
&nbsp; 
The only place perhaps where Modi failed was to bridge the gap between industry and farming community through his personality. For this reason the land acquisition bill continues to languish. Modi had to over commit himself to the farming sector lest suit boot ki sarkar jumla extract its pound of flesh. 
&nbsp; 
Narendra Modi like Indira Gandhi has become a central pole of discussion. His party rules 20 states. He has become undisputed national leader uniting the cadre in his praise. But like Indira Gandhi, from strong he has started to look authoritarian. It has united the whole Opposition which feels that BJP under Modi will derail democracy by making one party hegemonic. 
&nbsp; 
His campaigns like demonetisation and Swachh Bharat have united and divided India at the same time. Both policies became political issues. Demonetisation went a step further an became an electoral issue. Modi, like Indira Gandhi, is loved and hated at the same time. He is a demon and God to many at the same time.

Bottomline is that Modi's strength does not flow from accommodation but by drawing strong political lines. He politically appropriates surgical strike. He criticises domestic Opposition abroad. He remains cold to the Opposition. His supports stems more from social media than mainstream and international media.

There is a reason too. The Lutyen's consensus never accommodated him so he ended up breaking the very consensus. His desire to conquer Delhi is married to his aversion to its durbar politics. For this reason he remains an eternal outsider to Delhi's politics. He continues to divide and unite India and this remains the crux of Modi's four year in Delhi's politics.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The only place perhaps where Modi failed was to bridge the gap between industry and farming community through his personality.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in last four years did politics which was in spirit different from his predecessors. He made every state important and ensured that his campaign makes a difference to the fortune of the party. Modi in a way became a factor in politics where he divided and united the electorate at the same time. The undivided Hindu vote will remain biggest of his legacy. His appeal brought different segments of Dalits, OBCs and upper castes into BJP's fold but at the same time his politics has ended up creating great anxiety in the minority and people with Left liberal ideology. He has united a diverse population under the new rubric of cultural nationalism but sidelined views who believe in constitutional nationalism. This debate has united and divided the country like never before. Modi's politics ended minority exceptionalism in Indian politics but at the same time allowed crude majoritarianism to dominate political discourse. It allowed people to write and talk about violence perpetrated by minorities too. But it also created viciousness where a small child's rape in Jammu was being seen from the prism of community. Same happened on the nationalism debate. This time BJP turned the table on Congress. Congress, which used to call BJP anti-national for not participating in freedom struggle, was tagged as anti-national by BJP when it lent its support to a protest in JNU. It became part of a larger debate on nationalism. For the first time in history, Congress was being called anti-national. It united and divided India at the same time. It disallowed any intellectual discussion on the issue of patriotism and nationalism in mainstream but allowed coarse majority's view of the world to prevail. Modi's politics allowed communities more say and share in the political discourse. Whether it was cow protection or conservative stand on films like Padmavat, Modi's politics allowed these individual voices to dominate. Individual voices were labelled as detached from the ethos of the Indian society. This led to violation of the spirit of the Constitution. Indian Constitution acknowledges individual rights. Communities are protected but do not enjoy right over an individual. But in case of Padmavat, community's honour became more important than individual right. BJP on this sided with community pride. It made liberals look undemocratic in world view as if they are not sensitive to the subaltern world view. It again created a divide. Modi's politics ended Congress arrogance by attacking the principle of dynasty. Modi made dynasty into an issue which he continues to use during every state elections. It divided and united lot of people at the same time. His attack on the Gandhi family was a first of its kind. He broke the political Omerta code. It also unnerved lot of people in his party. Modi's politics also tried to make up for the bankruptcy of RSS as a major figure during independence. His politics successfully stole couple of Congress icons like Netaji and Sardar Patel. It again created a political divide. BJP was accused of using historical figures to serve contemporary political interest. The case in point is Netaji papers appearing a year before Bengal elections. The only place perhaps where Modi failed was to bridge the gap between industry and farming community through his personality. For this reason the land acquisition bill continues to languish. Modi had to over commit himself to the farming sector lest suit boot ki sarkar jumla extract its pound of flesh. Narendra Modi like Indira Gandhi has become a central pole of discussion. His party rules 20 states. He has become undisputed national leader uniting the cadre in his praise. But like Indira Gandhi, from strong he has started to look authoritarian. It has united the whole Opposition which feels that BJP under Modi will derail democracy by making one party hegemonic. His campaigns like demonetisation and Swachh Bharat have united and divided India at the same time. Both policies became political issues. Demonetisation went a step further an became an electoral issue. Modi, like Indira Gandhi, is loved and hated at the same time. He is a demon and God to many at the same time. Bottomline is that Modi's strength does not flow from accommodation but by drawing strong political lines. He politically appropriates surgical strike. He criticises domestic Opposition abroad. He remains cold to the Opposition. His supports stems more from social media than mainstream and international media. There is a reason too. The Lutyen's consensus never accommodated him so he ended up breaking the very consensus. His desire to conquer Delhi is married to his aversion to its durbar politics. For this reason he remains an eternal outsider to Delhi's politics. He continues to divide and unite India and this remains the crux of Modi's four year in Delhi's politics. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Modi, a unifier and divider, rolled into one

Election authorities have registered cases against representatives of the BJP and Shiv Sena for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district.&nbsp

The campaigning for the May 28 Palghar Lok Sabha by-poll, necessitated by the death of BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga, ended today. A release from the district administration said banners and flags were found to have been put up without permission during the Uttar Pradesh chief minister's rally at Nala Sopara on May 24.

A case was registered against local organisers under the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act and the Representation of the People (RP) Act.

Similarly, welcome arches were found to have been put up without permission at Dahanu, where Union minister Smriti Irani addressed a rally on Friday, the official release said.

Also, on May 24, the Shiv Sena hadn't allegedly taken permission for party chief Uddhav Thackeray's rally, and a case was registered against the organisers.

Tulinj police in the district registered a case against BJP activists who allegedly bashed up officials when they were pulling down banners put up without permission on the same day.

Police detained 12 persons who were allegedly distributing money at Ransheth village on Friday. Envelopes containing Rs. 1,500 each were seized from them the total cash seized added up to Rs. 1,48,500.

A release from the district administration said banners and flags were found to have been put up without permission during Yogi rally at Nala Sopara on May 24.

Election authorities have registered cases against representatives of the BJP and Shiv Sena for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district. The campaigning for the May 28 Palghar Lok Sabha by-poll, necessitated by the death of BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga, ended today. A release from the district administration said banners and flags were found to have been put up without permission during the Uttar Pradesh chief minister's rally at Nala Sopara on May 24. A case was registered against local organisers under the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act and the Representation of the People (RP) Act. Similarly, welcome arches were found to have been put up without permission at Dahanu, where Union minister Smriti Irani addressed a rally on Friday, the official release said. Also, on May 24, the Shiv Sena hadn't allegedly taken permission for party chief Uddhav Thackeray's rally, and a case was registered against the organisers. Tulinj police in the district registered a case against BJP activists who allegedly bashed up officials when they were pulling down banners put up without permission on the same day. Police detained 12 persons who were allegedly distributing money at Ransheth village on Friday. Envelopes containing Rs. 1,500 each were seized from them the total cash seized added up to Rs. 1,48,500.

Cases registered against BJP, Shiv Sena leaders for poll code violations during rallies

As the BJP-led government at the Centre completed four years in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said development has become a vibrant mass movement and he will continue to serve the people as it is always "India First" for him.

"On this day in 2014, we began our journey of working towards India`s transformation," said Modi.&nbsp

Modi assumed office on May 26, 2014.&nbsp

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
On this day in 2014, we began our journey of working towards India’s transformation. 
 
Over the last four years, development has become a vibrant mass movement, with every citizen feeling involved in India's growth trajectory. 125 crore Indians are taking India to great heights!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1000194984719466496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Over the last four years, development has become a vibrant mass movement, with every citizen feeling involved in India`s growth trajectory, 125 crore Indians are taking India to great heights!" Modi said in a series of tweets.&nbsp

In another tweet, he thanked the people and said: "I bow to my fellow citizens for their unwavering faith in our government."&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I bow to my fellow citizens for their unwavering faith in our Government. This support and affection is the biggest source of motivation and strength for the entire Government. We will continue to serve the people of India with the same vigour and dedication.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1000195377390211073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"This support and affection is the biggest source of motivation and strength for the entire Government. We will continue to serve the people of India with the same vigour and dedication," the Prime Minister said.

Modi also appreciated his government for taking people-friendly decisions and said, "For us, it is always India First."&nbsp

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For us, it is always India First. 
 
With the best intent and complete integrity, we have taken futuristic and people-friendly decisions that are laying the foundations of a New India. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaafNiyatSahiVikas?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaafNiyatSahiVikas</a> <a href="https://t.co/xyYx6KFIv3">pic.twitter.com/xyYx6KFIv3</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1000196071232946176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"With the best intent and complete integrity, we have taken futuristic and people-friendly decisions that are laying the foundations of a new India. `Saaf Niyat Sahi Vikas` (clean intention, perfect development)," he said, adding the government is gaining the confidence of people.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

"Over the last four years, development has become a vibrant mass movement, with every citizen feeling involved in India`s growth trajectory, 125 crore Indians are taking India to great heights!" Modi said in a series of tweets.

As the BJP-led government at the Centre completed four years in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said development has become a vibrant mass movement and he will continue to serve the people as it is always "India First" for him. "On this day in 2014, we began our journey of working towards India`s transformation," said Modi. Modi assumed office on May 26, 2014. On this day in 2014, we began our journey of working towards India’s transformation. Over the last four years, development has become a vibrant mass movement, with every citizen feeling involved in India's growth trajectory. 125 crore Indians are taking India to great heights! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2018 × "Over the last four years, development has become a vibrant mass movement, with every citizen feeling involved in India`s growth trajectory, 125 crore Indians are taking India to great heights!" Modi said in a series of tweets. In another tweet, he thanked the people and said: "I bow to my fellow citizens for their unwavering faith in our government." I bow to my fellow citizens for their unwavering faith in our Government. This support and affection is the biggest source of motivation and strength for the entire Government. We will continue to serve the people of India with the same vigour and dedication. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2018 × "This support and affection is the biggest source of motivation and strength for the entire Government. We will continue to serve the people of India with the same vigour and dedication," the Prime Minister said. Modi also appreciated his government for taking people-friendly decisions and said, "For us, it is always India First." For us, it is always India First. With the best intent and complete integrity, we have taken futuristic and people-friendly decisions that are laying the foundations of a New India. #SaafNiyatSahiVikas pic.twitter.com/xyYx6KFIv3 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2018 × "With the best intent and complete integrity, we have taken futuristic and people-friendly decisions that are laying the foundations of a new India. `Saaf Niyat Sahi Vikas` (clean intention, perfect development)," he said, adding the government is gaining the confidence of people.

Modi says 'India First' as BJP-led government completes 4 years

After serving as the chief minister of Gujarat for over a decade, Narendra Modi assumed office as the Prime Minister of the country on 26 May, 2014.

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The BJP fought the 2014 Lok Sabha elections under his leadership and came to power with a huge mandate. The “Modi wave” that prevailed during the elections helped BJP to emerge as the first party to have achieved the majority mark singlehandedly since 1984. Several media reports showed that the BJP was able to garner mass support in 2014 only because of Narendra Modi.

Earlier, Modi served as the chief minister of Gujarat from October 7, 2001 to May 22, 2014. 
&nbsp; 
He took over the reigns of the state in 2001, when the then chief minister Keshubhai Patel’s health was deteriorating. Modi was handed over the responsibility of the state at a time when the BJP government in Gujarat was experiencing allegations of abuse of power, corruption and poor administration. The chief minister was also criticised for his handling of the 2001 earthquake. 
&nbsp; 
Modi’s appointment however did not go down well with the party’s veteran leader LK Advani who thought he was not experienced enough for the post.&nbsp;

Modi, on the other hand, refused to accept any other post other than the Chief Minister. He declined the proposal of becoming the Deputy chief minister of Gujarat and demanded that he would either be “fully responsible for the state or not at all”. 
&nbsp; 
He finally replaced chief minister Keshubhai Patel and took over the command of the state on October 7, 2001 and continued till the end of the term. 
&nbsp; 
He was again appointed as the chief minister of the state after winning over the assembly polls next year in 2002. 
&nbsp; 
The party under his leadership continued to win every single assembly election that followed in the state after this. 
&nbsp; 
He served as the chief Minister of the state for four terms, from October 7, 2001 before resigning on May 22, 2014 to take up the charge of the country as the Prime Minister. 
&nbsp; 
The Bhartiya Janata party fielded him as the prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

His nomination was again subject to a lot of criticism by some senior leaders of the party, however the party did not take back his name keeping in mind the growing prominence that was developing for him in and outside the country. 
&nbsp; 
Modi fought the 2014 general elections from two constituencies, Varanasi and Vadodra. He registered victory in both the constituencies. While he retained the Varanasi constituency where he had won against the AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, Modi vacated the Vadodra seat where he beat Madhusudan Mistry of the Congress. 
&nbsp; 
Modi had always shown great leadership and mastery at political developments.

He had joined the RSS as a young boy. During his long stint in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, he played an important role in the 1974 Navnirman anti-corruption agitation. He also fought during the years of emergency when he had to go underground for a brief period of time. 
&nbsp; 
Modi joined the BJP in 1987 and within a year he was promoted to the level of General Secretary of the Gujarat unit. While working in the party he had coordinated two important events - Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra and a march from Kanyakumari to Kashmir.

A person who believes the ‘Gujarat Model’ of development can be applied to the whole country, PM Modi is eyeing another general election victory like 2014 to stamp his mark on India & Bharat.

After serving as the chief minister of Gujarat for over a decade, Narendra Modi assumed office as the Prime Minister of the country on 26 May, 2014

After serving as the chief minister of Gujarat for over a decade, Narendra Modi assumed office as the Prime Minister of the country on 26 May, 2014. × The BJP fought the 2014 Lok Sabha elections under his leadership and came to power with a huge mandate. The “Modi wave” that prevailed during the elections helped BJP to emerge as the first party to have achieved the majority mark singlehandedly since 1984. Several media reports showed that the BJP was able to garner mass support in 2014 only because of Narendra Modi. Earlier, Modi served as the chief minister of Gujarat from October 7, 2001 to May 22, 2014. He took over the reigns of the state in 2001, when the then chief minister Keshubhai Patel’s health was deteriorating. Modi was handed over the responsibility of the state at a time when the BJP government in Gujarat was experiencing allegations of abuse of power, corruption and poor administration. The chief minister was also criticised for his handling of the 2001 earthquake. Modi’s appointment however did not go down well with the party’s veteran leader LK Advani who thought he was not experienced enough for the post. Modi, on the other hand, refused to accept any other post other than the Chief Minister. He declined the proposal of becoming the Deputy chief minister of Gujarat and demanded that he would either be “fully responsible for the state or not at all”. He finally replaced chief minister Keshubhai Patel and took over the command of the state on October 7, 2001 and continued till the end of the term. He was again appointed as the chief minister of the state after winning over the assembly polls next year in 2002. The party under his leadership continued to win every single assembly election that followed in the state after this. He served as the chief Minister of the state for four terms, from October 7, 2001 before resigning on May 22, 2014 to take up the charge of the country as the Prime Minister. The Bhartiya Janata party fielded him as the prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. His nomination was again subject to a lot of criticism by some senior leaders of the party, however the party did not take back his name keeping in mind the growing prominence that was developing for him in and outside the country. Modi fought the 2014 general elections from two constituencies, Varanasi and Vadodra. He registered victory in both the constituencies. While he retained the Varanasi constituency where he had won against the AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, Modi vacated the Vadodra seat where he beat Madhusudan Mistry of the Congress. Modi had always shown great leadership and mastery at political developments. He had joined the RSS as a young boy. During his long stint in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, he played an important role in the 1974 Navnirman anti-corruption agitation. He also fought during the years of emergency when he had to go underground for a brief period of time. Modi joined the BJP in 1987 and within a year he was promoted to the level of General Secretary of the Gujarat unit. While working in the party he had coordinated two important events - Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra and a march from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. A person who believes the ‘Gujarat Model’ of development can be applied to the whole country, PM Modi is eyeing another general election victory like 2014 to stamp his mark on India & Bharat.

Narendra Modi: Journey from CM to PM

The Narendra Modi-led BJP government has completed four years in power. In these four years, the BJP has seen unprecedented ascendancy in its political power as a pan-India political party by wresting back power in Uttar Pradesh and expanding its electoral footprint to the North-East and Jammu & Kashmir.

For long, BJP was branded as a mainland cow-belt party with some influence in Western India, but now, the party is ruling in 21 states of the country.

The Narendra Modi led BJP government came to power with a historic mandate in May 2014, today, BJP is the largest political party in terms of elected representatives.

After its astounding performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP first tasted victory in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand assembly elections in 2014. As the party cemented its positions in other states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura and Nagaland, PM Modi announced his vision of 'Congress-free India'.

In states where the BJP was not able to win an absolute majority, it formed the government in the alliance like Bihar, Goa and Jammu and Kashmir. The party kept expanding its saffron footprints, and the opposition chorus also kept growing. They started accusing the BJP of communal politics and horse-trading.

The Congress and other opposition parties are seen rejoicing at the defeat of the BJP even in an insignificant election. The rise of the saffron party has also resulted in coming together of arch-foes who want to keep halt its victory run. The same was witnessed in Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha bypolls where Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party made a tacit understanding for Gorakhpur, Jaunpur bypolls and Karnataka where Congress agreed to join hands with JD(S) and make Kumaraswamy the chief minister.

The BJP, along with its allies, is now ruling Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Bihar, Nagaland, Jammu and Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim and Meghalaya. The opposition chorus has also now reached a crescendo and has set the stage for 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

The results in most of Assembly Elections are good news for the BJP in the context of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The results not only mark the further shrinking of the Congress footprint across India but also the BJP establishing itself as a pan-India party. With these elections, the BJP entered into some of its non-traditional areas - the North-East and South. It can now hope for additional seats in these areas to compensate for any losses that it might suffer in north India.

From its days as a party on the fringes of India's political spectrum, the Bharatiya Janata Party has now come a long way.

The Narendra Modi led BJP government came to power with a historic mandate in May 2014, today, BJP is the largest political party in terms of elected representatives.

The Narendra Modi-led BJP government has completed four years in power. In these four years, the BJP has seen unprecedented ascendancy in its political power as a pan-India political party by wresting back power in Uttar Pradesh and expanding its electoral footprint to the North-East and Jammu & Kashmir. For long, BJP was branded as a mainland cow-belt party with some influence in Western India, but now, the party is ruling in 21 states of the country. The Narendra Modi led BJP government came to power with a historic mandate in May 2014, today, BJP is the largest political party in terms of elected representatives. After its astounding performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP first tasted victory in Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand assembly elections in 2014. As the party cemented its positions in other states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura and Nagaland, PM Modi announced his vision of 'Congress-free India'. In states where the BJP was not able to win an absolute majority, it formed the government in the alliance like Bihar, Goa and Jammu and Kashmir. The party kept expanding its saffron footprints, and the opposition chorus also kept growing. They started accusing the BJP of communal politics and horse-trading. The Congress and other opposition parties are seen rejoicing at the defeat of the BJP even in an insignificant election. The rise of the saffron party has also resulted in coming together of arch-foes who want to keep halt its victory run. The same was witnessed in Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha bypolls where Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party made a tacit understanding for Gorakhpur, Jaunpur bypolls and Karnataka where Congress agreed to join hands with JD(S) and make Kumaraswamy the chief minister. The BJP, along with its allies, is now ruling Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Bihar, Nagaland, Jammu and Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim and Meghalaya. The opposition chorus has also now reached a crescendo and has set the stage for 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The results in most of Assembly Elections are good news for the BJP in the context of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The results not only mark the further shrinking of the Congress footprint across India but also the BJP establishing itself as a pan-India party. With these elections, the BJP entered into some of its non-traditional areas - the North-East and South. It can now hope for additional seats in these areas to compensate for any losses that it might suffer in north India. From its days as a party on the fringes of India's political spectrum, the Bharatiya Janata Party has now come a long way.

Four years of Modi government: BJP's surge as a pan-India political party

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-shiv-sena-bjp-to-fight-together-in-2019-elections-amit-shah-139934">Want Shiv Sena, BJP to fight together in 2019 elections: Amit Shah</a>

BJP President Amit Shah said on Saturday that members of the party wanted to fight along with the Shiv Sena in the 2019 elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-shiv-sena-bjp-to-fight-together-in-2019-elections-amit-shah-139934">We have worked tirelessly for development: PM Modi in Odisha</a>

Prime minister Narendra Modi spoke about his government completing four years in power on Saturday and reiterated the development for all motto.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-years-of-modi-rahul-gandhis-report-card-139949">Four years of Modi: Rahul Gandhi's report card </a>

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday rated the Narendra Modi-led BJP government on its completion of four years in power.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-met-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-saturday-seoul-139956">South</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-met-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-saturday-seoul-139956"> Korean president met North Korea's Kim Jong-un Saturday: Seoul</a>

South&nbsp;Korean President Moon Jae-in met North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Saturday to discuss Kim's possible upcoming summit with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, the South&nbsp;said in the second inter-Korean summit in as many months.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-syria-of-firm-measures-for-ceasefire-violations-139922">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-syria-of-firm-measures-for-ceasefire-violations-139922"> warns Syria of ‘firm’ measures for ceasefire violations</a>

The United States on Saturday warned Syria that it will take "firm" action ahainst them if the regime of Bashar al-Assad violates a ceasefire deal, after Syrian aircraft dropped leaflets on a southern province ahead of an expected offensive.

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Want Shiv Sena, BJP to fight together in 2019 elections: Amit Shah BJP President Amit Shah said on Saturday that members of the party wanted to fight along with the Shiv Sena in the 2019 elections. We have worked tirelessly for development: PM Modi in Odisha Prime minister Narendra Modi spoke about his government completing four years in power on Saturday and reiterated the development for all motto. Four years of Modi: Rahul Gandhi's report card Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday rated the Narendra Modi-led BJP government on its completion of four years in power. South Korean president met North Korea's Kim Jong-un Saturday: Seoul South Korean President Moon Jae-in met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Saturday to discuss Kim's possible upcoming summit with US President Donald Trump, the South said in the second inter-Korean summit in as many months. US warns Syria of ‘firm’ measures for ceasefire violations The United States on Saturday warned Syria that it will take "firm" action ahainst them if the regime of Bashar al-Assad violates a ceasefire deal, after Syrian aircraft dropped leaflets on a southern province ahead of an expected offensive.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In the run up to the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray released an audio clip, purportedly of Maharashtra chief minister asking BJP workers to use all possible means to win the by-election, even as Devendra Fadnavis Saturday termed it "twisted".

Fadnavis said he was ready to face action if what he said in the clip was found to be inappropriate.

He also released a 14-minute audio clip, claiming that it was the complete version of the "twisted" clip that was released by Thackeray during a rally on Friday.

In the audio clip, Fadnavis is purportedly heard exhorting BJP workers to win the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, slated for May 28, by using all means.

"The Shiv Sena can see it is losing and has, thus, stooped to such levels. The Sena twisted my audio clip and presented it before the people to misguide them.

"The full audio clip is 14 minutes long. I will myself submit this audio clip to the Election Commission," Fadnavis said while addressing a poll rally in suburban Vasai.

The chief minister alleged that the Sena had edited the clip.

"My last sentence in the clip was that we are in power, but we will never misuse it. This line they never released. Had they shown it, their claims would have fallen flat," he said.

"Listen to the whole clip released by the Sena. If there is anything wrong that I have said, I am ready to face action," Fadnavis said.

Speaking at a rally last evening, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had released the audio clip, in which Fadnavis was purportedly heard asking BJP workers to use "saam, daam, dand, bhed" (all possible means) to win the Palghar by-election.

"If somebody is challenging our existence in Palghar and has betrayed our trust, back-stabbed us, while calling itself our ally, then they should be taught a lesson. We should not be sitting quiet now. We should also launch a big attack and show them what the BJP is," Fadnavis is purportedly heard telling BJP workers in the clip.

"If we want to win this election, then an answer has to be given in the same measure... Give an answer by using 'saam, daam, dand, bhed' (negotiation, money, punishment and division).

"Do not tolerate anybody's bullying. On the contrary, bully them... I will stand behind you," the chief minister is heard saying in the clip.

The BJP said it would complain to the Election Commission (EC) about the Sena's alleged "misuse of technology".

After releasing the audio yesterday, Thackeray had demanded that the EC act against Fadnavis.

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said the use of such language against an opponent did not befit a chief minister.

Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Ashok Chavan sought Fadnavis' clarification on the audio clip.

"The CM should issue a clarification about the clip. We demand a probe into it and appropriate action by the Election Commission," Chavan said.

"If the clip is authentic, then the chief minister should immediately resign, but if it is fake, then Fadnavis should take action against Uddhav Thackeray," Chavan tweeted.

NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik demanded a probe by the EC and a complaint against the chief minister under section 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

"If the chief minister is threatening people in such a manner, then it amounts to vitiating the election atmosphere," he said.

"The chief minister and ordinary citizens are all equal before law when it comes to following the election code of conduct. The Shiv Sena should make a written complaint to the EC instead of resorting to such tactics," Malik said.

Responding to the clip and the allegations, BJP spokesperson Madhav Bhandari said, "The Sena is showing an incomplete and edited audio clip because it is shaken foreseeing its imminent defeat."

"We will complain to the Election Commission about the condemnable misuse of technology and also release the full clip," he said.&nbsp

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis also released a 14-minute audio clip, claiming that it was the complete version of the 'twisted' clip that was released by Thackeray during a rally on Friday

In the run up to the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray released an audio clip, purportedly of Maharashtra chief minister asking BJP workers to use all possible means to win the by-election, even as Devendra Fadnavis Saturday termed it "twisted". Fadnavis said he was ready to face action if what he said in the clip was found to be inappropriate. He also released a 14-minute audio clip, claiming that it was the complete version of the "twisted" clip that was released by Thackeray during a rally on Friday. In the audio clip, Fadnavis is purportedly heard exhorting BJP workers to win the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, slated for May 28, by using all means. "The Shiv Sena can see it is losing and has, thus, stooped to such levels. The Sena twisted my audio clip and presented it before the people to misguide them. "The full audio clip is 14 minutes long. I will myself submit this audio clip to the Election Commission," Fadnavis said while addressing a poll rally in suburban Vasai. The chief minister alleged that the Sena had edited the clip. "My last sentence in the clip was that we are in power, but we will never misuse it. This line they never released. Had they shown it, their claims would have fallen flat," he said. "Listen to the whole clip released by the Sena. If there is anything wrong that I have said, I am ready to face action," Fadnavis said. Speaking at a rally last evening, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had released the audio clip, in which Fadnavis was purportedly heard asking BJP workers to use "saam, daam, dand, bhed" (all possible means) to win the Palghar by-election. "If somebody is challenging our existence in Palghar and has betrayed our trust, back-stabbed us, while calling itself our ally, then they should be taught a lesson. We should not be sitting quiet now. We should also launch a big attack and show them what the BJP is," Fadnavis is purportedly heard telling BJP workers in the clip. "If we want to win this election, then an answer has to be given in the same measure... Give an answer by using 'saam, daam, dand, bhed' (negotiation, money, punishment and division). "Do not tolerate anybody's bullying. On the contrary, bully them... I will stand behind you," the chief minister is heard saying in the clip. The BJP said it would complain to the Election Commission (EC) about the Sena's alleged "misuse of technology". After releasing the audio yesterday, Thackeray had demanded that the EC act against Fadnavis. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said the use of such language against an opponent did not befit a chief minister. Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Ashok Chavan sought Fadnavis' clarification on the audio clip. "The CM should issue a clarification about the clip. We demand a probe into it and appropriate action by the Election Commission," Chavan said. "If the clip is authentic, then the chief minister should immediately resign, but if it is fake, then Fadnavis should take action against Uddhav Thackeray," Chavan tweeted. NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik demanded a probe by the EC and a complaint against the chief minister under section 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). "If the chief minister is threatening people in such a manner, then it amounts to vitiating the election atmosphere," he said. "The chief minister and ordinary citizens are all equal before law when it comes to following the election code of conduct. The Shiv Sena should make a written complaint to the EC instead of resorting to such tactics," Malik said. Responding to the clip and the allegations, BJP spokesperson Madhav Bhandari said, "The Sena is showing an incomplete and edited audio clip because it is shaken foreseeing its imminent defeat." "We will complain to the Election Commission about the condemnable misuse of technology and also release the full clip," he said.

Shiv Sena claims Maharashtra CM told workers to use all possible means to win by-elections, releases audio clip

PM Modi is known for his signature shots - grand gestures which have the ‘Modi hallmark’. The day May 26th, 2014 was no different.

The red carpet was laid out on this day 4 years ago – the day of Modi’s coronation as prime minister.

It was also a moment to play diplomacy and engage in the Great Game, after all a party had come to power with one of the biggest majorities in Indian parliamentary history and it was the time to set the agenda.

Modi, still a PM-designate made a diplomatic coup of sorts by inviting Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif to his inauguration which was widely seen as a political masterstroke and hopes of peace once again echoed in the sub-continent.

Modi and Pakistan

As PM Modi took over the reins of power at New Delhi, equations in Islamabad was changing too – as was always the case with the Army playing a key role.

During Manmohan’s Singh’s tenure, India and Pakistan had an off-again and on-again relationship.

In the initial years, Pervez Musharraf had travelled to New Delhi engaging in “cricket diplomacy” however as Musharraf was forced to give up power and a civilian government came to power, India’s equation with Pakistan began to undergo subtle changes.

Then came 26/11 and attacks on Mumbai by Pakistan’s “non-state” actors and things went downhill from there.

India stopped talking with Pakistan and during Manmohan’s second term Pakistan was almost always kept out of the picture.

As a grand foreign policy initiative, PM Modi played “stopover diplomacy” at Lahore in December 2015 to meet PM Nawaz Sharif while on his way back from Kabul.

The move is seen as the first attempt to kick-start India-Pak dialogue stalled since 26/11 created a media frenzy as both prime ministers did some chai pe charcha.

Then just days later came the Pathankot terror attack at India’s Air Force base on January 2nd, 2016 and relations nose-dived once again.

The final nail in the coffin was the Uri terror attack in J&K a few months later in September 2016 and India went ahead and refused to take part in the SAARC summit to be held in Kathmandu that year.

PM Modi’s government has been engaging in a war of words with Pakistan in what seems to be an unending game of one-upmanship in the sub-continental power game with no end in sight.

With just months for his tenure to get over and Pakistan elections near, PM Modi could be looking at another diplomatic coup to bring back Pakistan on the national agenda, although it may look a distant dream right now but for a prime minister who is used to think out of the box another trademark Modi miracle cannot be far away.

As PM Modi took over the reins of power at New Delhi, equations in Islamabad was changing too – as was always the case with the Army playing a key role.

PM Modi is known for his signature shots - grand gestures which have the ‘Modi hallmark’. The day May 26th, 2014 was no different. The red carpet was laid out on this day 4 years ago – the day of Modi’s coronation as prime minister. It was also a moment to play diplomacy and engage in the Great Game, after all a party had come to power with one of the biggest majorities in Indian parliamentary history and it was the time to set the agenda. Modi, still a PM-designate made a diplomatic coup of sorts by inviting Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif to his inauguration which was widely seen as a political masterstroke and hopes of peace once again echoed in the sub-continent. Modi and Pakistan As PM Modi took over the reins of power at New Delhi, equations in Islamabad was changing too – as was always the case with the Army playing a key role. During Manmohan’s Singh’s tenure, India and Pakistan had an off-again and on-again relationship. In the initial years, Pervez Musharraf had travelled to New Delhi engaging in “cricket diplomacy” however as Musharraf was forced to give up power and a civilian government came to power, India’s equation with Pakistan began to undergo subtle changes. Then came 26/11 and attacks on Mumbai by Pakistan’s “non-state” actors and things went downhill from there. India stopped talking with Pakistan and during Manmohan’s second term Pakistan was almost always kept out of the picture. As a grand foreign policy initiative, PM Modi played “stopover diplomacy” at Lahore in December 2015 to meet PM Nawaz Sharif while on his way back from Kabul. The move is seen as the first attempt to kick-start India-Pak dialogue stalled since 26/11 created a media frenzy as both prime ministers did some chai pe charcha. Then just days later came the Pathankot terror attack at India’s Air Force base on January 2nd, 2016 and relations nose-dived once again. The final nail in the coffin was the Uri terror attack in J&K a few months later in September 2016 and India went ahead and refused to take part in the SAARC summit to be held in Kathmandu that year. PM Modi’s government has been engaging in a war of words with Pakistan in what seems to be an unending game of one-upmanship in the sub-continental power game with no end in sight. With just months for his tenure to get over and Pakistan elections near, PM Modi could be looking at another diplomatic coup to bring back Pakistan on the national agenda, although it may look a distant dream right now but for a prime minister who is used to think out of the box another trademark Modi miracle cannot be far away.

PM Modi's ‘Lahore stopover’ and the Pakistan question

The BJP will launch a fortnight-long programme to mark the fourth anniversary of the Modi government, with its president Amit Shah leading an exercise to reach out to one lakh personalities from different walks of life to highlight its achievements.

The programme will start on May 27, in which all ministers -- both from the Centre and BJP-ruled states, MPs, MLAs, mayors and all other office-bearers of the party will reach out to personalities or experts or influential people across the country, BJP general secretary Arun Singh said in a letter.

It will also include a special contact drive in SC and ST localities and also with senior citizens, he said.

"As part of the programme, each BJP leader will interact with at least 25 renowned people from various fields such as retired judges of the Supreme Court and high courts, retired bureaucrats, retired army personnel, sports stars, writers among others and will inform them about the achievements of the Modi government in last four years," Singh said.

Singh further said all party leaders have also been instructed to organise various events such as a conference of beneficiaries of various welfare schemes, get-together of intellectuals, press conference and gram sabhas.

Besides, the leaders have been asked by the party to meet at least 50 polling booth workers of the BJP and brief them about the Modi government's works.

Singh also asked the party leaders to promote the use of Narendra Modi App during their interactions with the people.

The programme will start on May 27, in which all ministers -- both from the Centre and BJP-ruled states, MPs, MLAs, mayors and all other office-bearers of the party will reach out to personalities or experts or influential people across the country

The BJP will launch a fortnight-long programme to mark the fourth anniversary of the Modi government, with its president Amit Shah leading an exercise to reach out to one lakh personalities from different walks of life to highlight its achievements. The programme will start on May 27, in which all ministers -- both from the Centre and BJP-ruled states, MPs, MLAs, mayors and all other office-bearers of the party will reach out to personalities or experts or influential people across the country, BJP general secretary Arun Singh said in a letter. It will also include a special contact drive in SC and ST localities and also with senior citizens, he said. "As part of the programme, each BJP leader will interact with at least 25 renowned people from various fields such as retired judges of the Supreme Court and high courts, retired bureaucrats, retired army personnel, sports stars, writers among others and will inform them about the achievements of the Modi government in last four years," Singh said. Singh further said all party leaders have also been instructed to organise various events such as a conference of beneficiaries of various welfare schemes, get-together of intellectuals, press conference and gram sabhas. Besides, the leaders have been asked by the party to meet at least 50 polling booth workers of the BJP and brief them about the Modi government's works. Singh also asked the party leaders to promote the use of Narendra Modi App during their interactions with the people.

BJP to launch 15-day programme to mark fourth anniversary of Modi government

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-face-floor-test-today-congress-jds-legislators-still-in-hotel--139553">Kumaraswamy to face floor test today Congress-JD(S) legislators still in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-face-floor-test-today-congress-jds-legislators-still-in-hotel--139553">hotel</a>

With a hope of putting an end to the political turmoil prevailing in Karnataka over the government formation, newly sworn-in Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy will face a floor test on Friday to prove his majority.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-is-soaking-up-most-of-the-political-funding-shashi-tharoor-139562">'BJP is soaking up most of political funding': Shashi Tharoor</a>

A day after acknowledging that the Congress party was indeed facing a funding crunch, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-morgan-freeman-apologises-as-multiple-women-accuse-him-of-sexual-harassment-at-work-139548">Morgan Freeman apologises as multiple women accuse him of sexual harassment at work</a>

In a shocking update from the world of entertainment, Hollywood star Morgan Freeman who is known for giving stellar performances in every movie he does -- has been accused of inappropriate behaviour and harassment by multiple women who have worked with him.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-diesel-prices-hit-new-high-in-past-five-days-139554">No relief in sight as petrol, diesel prices hit a new high</a>

Commuters are unlikely to get any relief from soaring oil prices today also as petrol and diesel on Friday morning hit an all-time high in the last five days. Petrol price per litre in Delhi was recorded at Rs 77.83. For Mumbai petrol per litre was registered at Rs 85.65, Rs 80.47 in Kolkata and Rs 80.80 per litre in Chennai.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-votes-in-once-in-a-generation-abortion-referendum-139549">Ireland votes in 'once-in-a-generation' abortion referendum</a>

Ireland votes on Friday in an abortion referendum that could be a milestone on a path of change in a country that, only a few decades ago, was one of Europe's most socially conservative.

&nbsp

Kumaraswamy to face floor test today Congress-JD(S) legislators still in hotel With a hope of putting an end to the political turmoil prevailing in Karnataka over the government formation, newly sworn-in Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy will face a floor test on Friday to prove his majority. 'BJP is soaking up most of political funding': Shashi Tharoor A day after acknowledging that the Congress party was indeed facing a funding crunch, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power. Morgan Freeman apologises as multiple women accuse him of sexual harassment at work In a shocking update from the world of entertainment, Hollywood star Morgan Freeman who is known for giving stellar performances in every movie he does -- has been accused of inappropriate behaviour and harassment by multiple women who have worked with him. No relief in sight as petrol, diesel prices hit a new high Commuters are unlikely to get any relief from soaring oil prices today also as petrol and diesel on Friday morning hit an all-time high in the last five days. Petrol price per litre in Delhi was recorded at Rs 77.83. For Mumbai petrol per litre was registered at Rs 85.65, Rs 80.47 in Kolkata and Rs 80.80 per litre in Chennai. Ireland votes in 'once-in-a-generation' abortion referendum Ireland votes on Friday in an abortion referendum that could be a milestone on a path of change in a country that, only a few decades ago, was one of Europe's most socially conservative.

A day after acknowledging that the Congress party was indeed facing a funding crunch, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power.&nbsp;

&nbsp;''No doubt that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power. As a result, most of the opposition parties are facing a bit of a crisis particularly the Congress which has a nationwide presence,'' Congress leaders &nbsp;Shashi Tharoor said.&nbsp;

Tharoor further said that most of the candidates financed their own campaign in the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly election.&nbsp;

''In Karnataka, while most candidates financed their own campaign, in one case we did crowdfunding effort and it was successful. The same can be repeated in general elections,'' he said and added in Kerala they were able to raise funds locally which, he said, can be repeated nationally.&nbsp;

On Wednesday Tharoor acknowledged that the party was facing cash crunch and asked all concerned citizens to help face the ''moneybags'' of the BJP.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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No doubt that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding,partly because money goes to those who are in power. As a result most of the oppn parties are facing a bit of a crisis particularly the Congress which has a nationwide presence: Shashi Tharoor,Congress <a href="https://t.co/im7MqRDx6x">pic.twitter.com/im7MqRDx6x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999841590305787905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In Karnataka while most candidates financed their own campaign, in one case we did crowdfunding effort and it was successful.Can be repeated in general elections. In Kerala also we did yatras and were able to raise funds locally,this too can be repeated nationally: Shashi Tharoor <a href="https://t.co/B1sFmWmrKv">pic.twitter.com/B1sFmWmrKv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999841594516889600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I don’t think we need to be embarrassed about acknowledging that <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@incIndia</a> is facing a funding crunch: <a href="https://t.co/BnAoXYEw44">https://t.co/BnAoXYEw44</a> We should call on all concerned citizens to help us face the moneybags of the BJP
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/999326082905006080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Most of the candidates financed their own campaign in the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly election, Tharoor said

A day after acknowledging that the Congress party was indeed facing a funding crunch, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power. ''No doubt that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding, partly because the money goes to those who are in power. As a result, most of the opposition parties are facing a bit of a crisis particularly the Congress which has a nationwide presence,'' Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor said. Tharoor further said that most of the candidates financed their own campaign in the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly election. ''In Karnataka, while most candidates financed their own campaign, in one case we did crowdfunding effort and it was successful. The same can be repeated in general elections,'' he said and added in Kerala they were able to raise funds locally which, he said, can be repeated nationally. On Wednesday Tharoor acknowledged that the party was facing cash crunch and asked all concerned citizens to help face the ''moneybags'' of the BJP. No doubt that BJP is soaking up most of the political funding,partly because money goes to those who are in power. As a result most of the oppn parties are facing a bit of a crisis particularly the Congress which has a nationwide presence: Shashi Tharoor,Congress pic.twitter.com/im7MqRDx6x — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2018 × In Karnataka while most candidates financed their own campaign, in one case we did crowdfunding effort and it was successful.Can be repeated in general elections. In Kerala also we did yatras and were able to raise funds locally,this too can be repeated nationally: Shashi Tharoor pic.twitter.com/B1sFmWmrKv — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2018 × I don’t think we need to be embarrassed about acknowledging that @incIndia is facing a funding crunch: https://t.co/BnAoXYEw44 We should call on all concerned citizens to help us face the moneybags of the BJP — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 23, 2018 ×

'BJP is soaking up most of political funding': Shashi Tharoor

Kairana by-election is being called the mother of all battles as Rashtriya Lok Dal ( RLD) candidate is giving a tough fight to BJP. The BJP had won this seat in a wave in 2014. The 2014 elections also witnessed complete rout of RLD, SP and BSP candidates in Uttar Pradesh. After tasting victory in Phoolpur and Gorakhpur, Opposition has once again got together and both SP and BSP are supporting the RLD candidate. RLD’s campaign is being held together by Jayant Chaudhary, former MP and grandson of former Prime Minister late Chaudhary Charan Singh. He says that RLD will defeat BJP candidate.

WION: Is RLD confident of winning election in Kairana?

Jayant Chaudhary: We will win elections in Kairana. The local economy is not doing well and farm crisis has affected every family in this region. We are running an innovative campaign. It is localised in nature and we have picked up issues related to common men. We have been asking people,”Is Ganna important to you or Jinnah.”&nbsp;Our’s is not a high decibel BJP campaign. I have done 145 meetings already and none of them were huge rallies. BJP’s campaign is negative as of now. More so our coalition is working in harmony and cadres of SP-BSP are supporting and cooperating with each other. Our workers are also watching national development very keenly and they feel that BJP can be taught a lesson in this election. For this reason, there is coming together of non-BJP people.

WION: 2013 riots created polarisation which wiped out your party. What is different today that Jat community will vote for you once again?

Jayant Chaudhary: I would say that the social alliance broke after 2013 riots. Hindu Muslim tensions made it difficult for the community to vote together. But we have built bridges. We organized bhaichara sammelans in the area. Lot of water has passed under the bridge since 2013. People want to move on. A lot of cases are being settled outside the courts too. We will beat the polarisation by bringing the people together. We failed to recognise the tension which existed prior to 2013 and could not effectively resolve it. Subsequently, small incidents led to bigger events and an open conflagration.

WION: Is Grand Alliance a good idea?

Jayant Chaudhary: Grand Alliance is in the national context. There is a difference but they can be worked out. But we need to choose sides. RSS says that regional partiers have always failed. Regional parties can take on Modi. All that is required is a coherent strategy.

WION: Big alliances in past have never completed the term ever?

Jayant Chaudhary: We are jumping the gun. Politics always throw up surprises. Life is not linear and history does not always repeat itself.

WION: Can grand alliance in Uttar Pradesh defeat BJP?

Jayant Chaudhary: It is happening. It can happen. At the regional level, votes can be transferred. Real cooperation can take place between regional parties. Cadres are motivated. They see themselves as part of a national story and this feeling is making a big difference on ground.

WION: Can we say that only challenge BJP is receiving from is from regional parties?

Jayant Chaudhary: Regional parties definitely pose a challenge but understand that Congress too will have to play a role. It is the largest national party in the Opposition. Congress will have to play the role of an axle. They are in middle of it too. But regional parties are playing an effective role of an Opposition. There is no problem of coming together but a larger understanding will need to be built for it to sustain itself.

&nbsp;

Kairana by-election is being called the mother of all battles as Rashtriya Lok Dal ( RLD) candidate is giving a tough fight to BJP

Kairana by-election is being called the mother of all battles as Rashtriya Lok Dal ( RLD) candidate is giving a tough fight to BJP. The BJP had won this seat in a wave in 2014. The 2014 elections also witnessed complete rout of RLD, SP and BSP candidates in Uttar Pradesh. After tasting victory in Phoolpur and Gorakhpur, Opposition has once again got together and both SP and BSP are supporting the RLD candidate. RLD’s campaign is being held together by Jayant Chaudhary, former MP and grandson of former Prime Minister late Chaudhary Charan Singh. He says that RLD will defeat BJP candidate. WION: Is RLD confident of winning election in Kairana? Jayant Chaudhary: We will win elections in Kairana. The local economy is not doing well and farm crisis has affected every family in this region. We are running an innovative campaign. It is localised in nature and we have picked up issues related to common men. We have been asking people,”Is Ganna important to you or Jinnah.” Our’s is not a high decibel BJP campaign. I have done 145 meetings already and none of them were huge rallies. BJP’s campaign is negative as of now. More so our coalition is working in harmony and cadres of SP-BSP are supporting and cooperating with each other. Our workers are also watching national development very keenly and they feel that BJP can be taught a lesson in this election. For this reason, there is coming together of non-BJP people. WION: 2013 riots created polarisation which wiped out your party. What is different today that Jat community will vote for you once again? Jayant Chaudhary: I would say that the social alliance broke after 2013 riots. Hindu Muslim tensions made it difficult for the community to vote together. But we have built bridges. We organized bhaichara sammelans in the area. Lot of water has passed under the bridge since 2013. People want to move on. A lot of cases are being settled outside the courts too. We will beat the polarisation by bringing the people together. We failed to recognise the tension which existed prior to 2013 and could not effectively resolve it. Subsequently, small incidents led to bigger events and an open conflagration. WION: Is Grand Alliance a good idea? Jayant Chaudhary: Grand Alliance is in the national context. There is a difference but they can be worked out. But we need to choose sides. RSS says that regional partiers have always failed. Regional parties can take on Modi. All that is required is a coherent strategy. WION: Big alliances in past have never completed the term ever? Jayant Chaudhary: We are jumping the gun. Politics always throw up surprises. Life is not linear and history does not always repeat itself. WION: Can grand alliance in Uttar Pradesh defeat BJP? Jayant Chaudhary: It is happening. It can happen. At the regional level, votes can be transferred. Real cooperation can take place between regional parties. Cadres are motivated. They see themselves as part of a national story and this feeling is making a big difference on ground. WION: Can we say that only challenge BJP is receiving from is from regional parties? Jayant Chaudhary: Regional parties definitely pose a challenge but understand that Congress too will have to play a role. It is the largest national party in the Opposition. Congress will have to play the role of an axle. They are in middle of it too. But regional parties are playing an effective role of an Opposition. There is no problem of coming together but a larger understanding will need to be built for it to sustain itself.

We will defeat BJP in Kairana: RLD leader Jayant Chaudhary to WION

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Wednesday that Goods and Service Tax (GST) and demonetisation were "revolutionary steps" taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards making the nation corruption free.

Praising Prime Minister Modi for introducing various central schemes for the development of the country, the Vice President said, "With the introduction of GST and demonetisation, the Prime Minister took revolutionary steps. The GST revenue in April has crossed Rs 1.4 lakh crore, indicating high hopes for the new tax regime."

Vice President Naidu was speaking at the 11th convocation ceremony of the Tripura University.

In his speech, he also emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity and business in the region and the neighbouring nations.

The 11th convocation of the Tripura University was held after five years. As many as 142 scholars rePhDd PhD&nbsp;degrees and about 400 students from many streams received gold and silver medals.

Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, Education Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Vice-Chancellor Anjan Kumar Ghosh, Registrar Santi Deb Roy and other dignitaries were present in the Maharaja BB auditorium for the convocation.

Naidu emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Wednesday that Goods and Service Tax (GST) and demonetisation were "revolutionary steps" taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards making the nation corruption free. Praising Prime Minister Modi for introducing various central schemes for the development of the country, the Vice President said, "With the introduction of GST and demonetisation, the Prime Minister took revolutionary steps. The GST revenue in April has crossed Rs 1.4 lakh crore, indicating high hopes for the new tax regime." Vice President Naidu was speaking at the 11th convocation ceremony of the Tripura University. In his speech, he also emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity and business in the region and the neighbouring nations. The 11th convocation of the Tripura University was held after five years. As many as 142 scholars rePhDd PhD degrees and about 400 students from many streams received gold and silver medals. Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, Education Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Vice-Chancellor Anjan Kumar Ghosh, Registrar Santi Deb Roy and other dignitaries were present in the Maharaja BB auditorium for the convocation.

GST and demonetisation were revolutionary steps to make India corruption free: Venkaiah Naidu

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today said the JD(S) along with Congress had succeeded in tying Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ashwamedha' horse (victory horse) in Karnataka, fulfilling his aim.

"I had said after the Uttar Pradesh election results came out that my aim is to tie the Ashwamwedha horse of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah (BJP President). Today both Congress and JD(S) together have tied their Ashwamedha horse in Karnataka," Kumaraswamy said.

Calling himself a "child of circumstances," Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the "national interest."

Speaking to reporters after being sworn-in as chief minister, he said "Probably, in the days to come, Amit Shah has to go to Narendra Modi with lifeless Ashwamedha horse, as we have tied their horse."

He said many people were having doubts about whether the coalition government would last and assured them that he would provide a stable government.

"There is doubt whether this government will last long. With my conduct and that of my government, I will ensure that this opinion will change.

I want to make it clear to the people of the state," he said.

Conceding that people had these doubts because the JDS broke away from the Congress in 2006 to form a government with BJP, Kumaraswamy said "...The nature of our (JDS, Congress) relationship thereafter has led to a doubt about our confidence in each other, and can we work together."

"I want to tell people of the state that this government will be a stable one. This coalition government will be more stable than one party government.

We will not give chance for any differences and we will work to solve the problems of the state," he added.

JD(S) that had fought bitterly against the Congress, especially in old Mysuru region, had to join hands to keep BJP out of power in Karnataka, where the May 12 assembly polls threw up a hung assembly.

Pointing out that he had said before the election that if no party gets the majority, he would sit in the opposition and would not reach understanding with any party, Kumaraswamy called himself a "child of circumstances."

"I'm a child of circumstances it was unavoidable for me to keep aside my personal wishes and decisions," he said.

The Chief Minister said, several national leaders after the assembly election results advised him to form the government withCongress, keeping the national interest in mind.

Citing the presence of several political leaders at the swearing-in ceremony, Kumaraswamy said "they all coming together makes me feel, it is a new development.

With their coming together for the ceremony, you may understand why I called myself a child of circumstances," he added.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, N Chandrababu Naidu, and Pinarayi Vijayan, her counterparts in Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala respectively, were present.

Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly, BSP chief Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, who has struck an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, and socialist leader Sharad Yadav were also in attendance.

The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the BJP-led NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year.

Admitting that there were challenges ahead of him, Kumaraswamy said "it will not be easy for me to run this government easily. I will have to take every step with caution, that is the situation."

He said many leaders feel that under his leadership the new government would prove to be a "model government."

"I will try to keep up their trust and that of people in me and I will go ahead," Kumaraswamy said.

Calling himself a 'child of circumstances,' Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the 'national interest'

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today said the JD(S) along with Congress had succeeded in tying Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ashwamedha' horse (victory horse) in Karnataka, fulfilling his aim. "I had said after the Uttar Pradesh election results came out that my aim is to tie the Ashwamwedha horse of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah (BJP President). Today both Congress and JD(S) together have tied their Ashwamedha horse in Karnataka," Kumaraswamy said. Calling himself a "child of circumstances," Kumaraswamy said he decided to join hands with the Congress on the advice of several political leaders in the "national interest." Speaking to reporters after being sworn-in as chief minister, he said "Probably, in the days to come, Amit Shah has to go to Narendra Modi with lifeless Ashwamedha horse, as we have tied their horse." He said many people were having doubts about whether the coalition government would last and assured them that he would provide a stable government. "There is doubt whether this government will last long. With my conduct and that of my government, I will ensure that this opinion will change. I want to make it clear to the people of the state," he said. Conceding that people had these doubts because the JDS broke away from the Congress in 2006 to form a government with BJP, Kumaraswamy said "...The nature of our (JDS, Congress) relationship thereafter has led to a doubt about our confidence in each other, and can we work together." "I want to tell people of the state that this government will be a stable one. This coalition government will be more stable than one party government. We will not give chance for any differences and we will work to solve the problems of the state," he added. JD(S) that had fought bitterly against the Congress, especially in old Mysuru region, had to join hands to keep BJP out of power in Karnataka, where the May 12 assembly polls threw up a hung assembly. Pointing out that he had said before the election that if no party gets the majority, he would sit in the opposition and would not reach understanding with any party, Kumaraswamy called himself a "child of circumstances." "I'm a child of circumstances it was unavoidable for me to keep aside my personal wishes and decisions," he said. The Chief Minister said, several national leaders after the assembly election results advised him to form the government withCongress, keeping the national interest in mind. Citing the presence of several political leaders at the swearing-in ceremony, Kumaraswamy said "they all coming together makes me feel, it is a new development. With their coming together for the ceremony, you may understand why I called myself a child of circumstances," he added. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, N Chandrababu Naidu, and Pinarayi Vijayan, her counterparts in Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala respectively, were present. Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly, BSP chief Mayawati and SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, who has struck an alliance in Uttar Pradesh, NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, and socialist leader Sharad Yadav were also in attendance. The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the BJP-led NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year. Admitting that there were challenges ahead of him, Kumaraswamy said "it will not be easy for me to run this government easily. I will have to take every step with caution, that is the situation." He said many leaders feel that under his leadership the new government would prove to be a "model government." "I will try to keep up their trust and that of people in me and I will go ahead," Kumaraswamy said.

We have tied 'Ashwamedha' horse of Modi: Kumaraswamy

The BJP on Wednesday observed a 'black day' against the Congress-JD(S) government headed by HD Kumaraswamy ahead of its swearing-in, and gave a call to the "sidelined" Congress leaders in the new coalition to join the saffron party.

The BJP warned that it would hold a statewide 'bandh' if the new coalition government fails to fulfill its election promises.

Addressing the party workers who had gathered in large numbers to stage a demonstration near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Anand Rao Circle, BJP state chief B S Yeddyurappa condemned the coalition government as "an opportunistic alliance."

"There is a farm loan of Rs 53,000 crore. You have said you will waive all the loans. Let us see whether you will actually waive all the farm loans. If you fail, we will observe a bandh all over the state," he said.

The state BJP chief said the Congress should immediately distance itself from the JD(S) or else the dream of Congress-free India will be a reality soon.

"Congress has lost its base in the state. With whom will the Congress go tomorrow? Will you go with Kumaraswamy?," said Yeddyurappa.

He also gave a call to Congress leaders, who felt offended for being sidelined in the new scheme of things in the coalition government, to join the BJP.

"Congress leaders must wake up. Those who felt cheated can come to BJP. If there is any party, which has faith in democracy, it is BJP. Let us build Karnataka as a model state. I flay this coalition government," said Yeddyurappa.

Slamming the BJP for observing the "black day", JDS leader Kumaraswamy said, "Having no concern for public is BJP's style of functioning. Their politics revolved around misleading people by organising events like black day, some kind of Yatra and fomenting passions. You cannot expect anything better from them."&nbsp;

Yeddyurappa had stepped down as Karnataka chief minister within three days of assuming office after failing to muster enough numbers, without facing the floor test on May 19.&nbsp;

The BJP had emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats in the assembly elections, with a fractured mandate.&nbsp;

With Yeddyurappa failing to take the floor test, the Congress and JD(S) claiming the support of 117 MLAs was invited to form the government by Governor Vajubhai Vala.

Former deputy chief minister R Ashok, MP Shobha Karandlaje and BJP leader Jaggesh also participated in the protest.&nbsp;

The BJP warned that it would hold a statewide 'bandh' if the new coalition government fails to fulfill its election promises.

The BJP on Wednesday observed a 'black day' against the Congress-JD(S) government headed by HD Kumaraswamy ahead of its swearing-in, and gave a call to the "sidelined" Congress leaders in the new coalition to join the saffron party. The BJP warned that it would hold a statewide 'bandh' if the new coalition government fails to fulfill its election promises. Addressing the party workers who had gathered in large numbers to stage a demonstration near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Anand Rao Circle, BJP state chief B S Yeddyurappa condemned the coalition government as "an opportunistic alliance." "There is a farm loan of Rs 53,000 crore. You have said you will waive all the loans. Let us see whether you will actually waive all the farm loans. If you fail, we will observe a bandh all over the state," he said. The state BJP chief said the Congress should immediately distance itself from the JD(S) or else the dream of Congress-free India will be a reality soon. "Congress has lost its base in the state. With whom will the Congress go tomorrow? Will you go with Kumaraswamy?," said Yeddyurappa. He also gave a call to Congress leaders, who felt offended for being sidelined in the new scheme of things in the coalition government, to join the BJP. "Congress leaders must wake up. Those who felt cheated can come to BJP. If there is any party, which has faith in democracy, it is BJP. Let us build Karnataka as a model state. I flay this coalition government," said Yeddyurappa. Slamming the BJP for observing the "black day", JDS leader Kumaraswamy said, "Having no concern for public is BJP's style of functioning. Their politics revolved around misleading people by organising events like black day, some kind of Yatra and fomenting passions. You cannot expect anything better from them." Yeddyurappa had stepped down as Karnataka chief minister within three days of assuming office after failing to muster enough numbers, without facing the floor test on May 19. The BJP had emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats in the assembly elections, with a fractured mandate. With Yeddyurappa failing to take the floor test, the Congress and JD(S) claiming the support of 117 MLAs was invited to form the government by Governor Vajubhai Vala. Former deputy chief minister R Ashok, MP Shobha Karandlaje and BJP leader Jaggesh also participated in the protest.

BJP observes 'black day' against JD(S)-Congress coalition govt

The Archbishop of Delhi Anil Couto has set off a firestorm with a letter saying the country's secular fabric is under threat.&nbsp;

"We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our constitution and the secular fabric of our nation," Couto says in his letter.

"It is our hallowed practice to pray for our country and its political leaders all the time but all the more so when we approach the general elections. As we look forward towards 2019 when we will have new government let us begin a prayer campaign for our country from May 13," he adds.&nbsp;

The letter has been sent to all of Delhi's churches along with a prayer. The letter says the prayer should be read out at Sunday mass.&nbsp;

Couto has also asked for fasting on Fridays.&nbsp;

The archbishop's secretary said prayer campaigns are conducted before every election. But that this one is being politicised.&nbsp;

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The Archbishop's letter is not political, neither it is against the Govt or against the honourable PM. Misinformation should not be spread. Its just an invitation for prayers, and such letters have been written in the past too: Father Robinson, Secretary to Archbishop of Delhi <a href="https://t.co/YTpCoKq8K0">pic.twitter.com/YTpCoKq8K0</a>
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When a govt has finished its term & in elections a govt is elected, it is a new govt. Letter doesn't say a different govt, it says new govt. So, I don't see anything controversial with the term new govt: Father Nigel Barret, Spokesperson, Bombay Archdiocese. <a href="https://t.co/1teidyKd2u">pic.twitter.com/1teidyKd2u</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998788421886754816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM is working towards inclusive growth without discriminating while breaking barriers of religion & castes.We can only ask them to think with progressive mindset: MA Naqvi, Minority Affairs Min on Archbishop's letter to priests asking to "pray for country" ahead of 2019 elections <a href="https://t.co/vYA58YsFro">pic.twitter.com/vYA58YsFro</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998782389965897728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"May the ethos of true democracy envelop our elections with dignity and the flames of honest patriotism enkindle our political leaders. This is our cry, Heavenly Father, in these troubled times as we see the clouds eclipsing the light of truth, justice and freedom," said the prayer sent out with the archbishop's letter.&nbsp;

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'We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our constitution and the secular fabric of our nation,' Anil Couto says in a letter sent out to all of Delhi's churches

The Archbishop of Delhi Anil Couto has set off a firestorm with a letter saying the country's secular fabric is under threat. "We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our constitution and the secular fabric of our nation," Couto says in his letter. "It is our hallowed practice to pray for our country and its political leaders all the time but all the more so when we approach the general elections. As we look forward towards 2019 when we will have new government let us begin a prayer campaign for our country from May 13," he adds. The letter has been sent to all of Delhi's churches along with a prayer. The letter says the prayer should be read out at Sunday mass. Couto has also asked for fasting on Fridays. The archbishop's secretary said prayer campaigns are conducted before every election. But that this one is being politicised. The Archbishop's letter is not political, neither it is against the Govt or against the honourable PM. Misinformation should not be spread. Its just an invitation for prayers, and such letters have been written in the past too: Father Robinson, Secretary to Archbishop of Delhi pic.twitter.com/YTpCoKq8K0 — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × When a govt has finished its term & in elections a govt is elected, it is a new govt. Letter doesn't say a different govt, it says new govt. So, I don't see anything controversial with the term new govt: Father Nigel Barret, Spokesperson, Bombay Archdiocese. pic.twitter.com/1teidyKd2u — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × PM is working towards inclusive growth without discriminating while breaking barriers of religion & castes.We can only ask them to think with progressive mindset: MA Naqvi, Minority Affairs Min on Archbishop's letter to priests asking to "pray for country" ahead of 2019 elections pic.twitter.com/vYA58YsFro — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × "May the ethos of true democracy envelop our elections with dignity and the flames of honest patriotism enkindle our political leaders. This is our cry, Heavenly Father, in these troubled times as we see the clouds eclipsing the light of truth, justice and freedom," said the prayer sent out with the archbishop's letter.

India's secular fabric under threat: Archbishop of Delhi

Days after voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines were found from a house in Vijaypur district of Karnataka, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state chief BS Yeddyurappa has written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) alleging "grave irregularities" in the recently concluded Karnataka assembly elections.

In the letter, Yeddyurappa wrote, "I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned in a shed near Managuli village in Vijayapur district. It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka."

Yeddyurappa also stated that prior to the Karnataka polls, the BJP had raised the same concern about the reoccurring issue but the officials paid no heed.

"This is not the first time that irregularities in the conduct of elections were brought to the notice of Election Commission and officials holding elections at ground level. Prior to polling, we brought many such irregularities to notice of concerned officials, but in vain," added Yeddyurappa.

On Friday, eight VVPAT's without batteries were seized from a labourer's house in Vijaypura, a week after elections were conducted in the state.

Yeddyurappa, who was sworn in as Chief Minister on April 17, stepped down two days later before the floor test as he did not have the numbers.

'I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned... It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka,' Yeddyurappa wrote in his letter

Days after voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines were found from a house in Vijaypur district of Karnataka, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state chief BS Yeddyurappa has written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) alleging "grave irregularities" in the recently concluded Karnataka assembly elections. In the letter, Yeddyurappa wrote, "I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned in a shed near Managuli village in Vijayapur district. It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka." Yeddyurappa also stated that prior to the Karnataka polls, the BJP had raised the same concern about the reoccurring issue but the officials paid no heed. "This is not the first time that irregularities in the conduct of elections were brought to the notice of Election Commission and officials holding elections at ground level. Prior to polling, we brought many such irregularities to notice of concerned officials, but in vain," added Yeddyurappa. On Friday, eight VVPAT's without batteries were seized from a labourer's house in Vijaypura, a week after elections were conducted in the state. Yeddyurappa, who was sworn in as Chief Minister on April 17, stepped down two days later before the floor test as he did not have the numbers.

Yeddyurappa alleges 'grave irregularities' in Karnataka polls, writes to CEC

BJP leader and party in-charge of Jammu and Kashmir Ram Madhav on Monday attacked Congress, calling them "the most corrupt party" adding that the decision of alliance with JD(S) is an ünethical deal."

Madhav said:&nbsp;"Whole history of Congress is full of corruption. There's not been a single genuine charge against BJP Government in past 4 years. The most corrupt party is Congress and that corruption has reflected in the unethical deal that they have entered into with JD(S) in Karnataka."

In reply to the BJP's move to influence Congress MLA's during floor tests, he said:&nbsp;"It's a democratic practice where the single largest party is given the opportunity. We had the right to seek that opportunity which we sought."

"We have done no mistake. It's a democratic practice where the single largest party is given the opportunity. We had the right to seek that opportunity which we sought. It is a different matter that we weren't able to muster required numbers," he added.&nbsp;

He laid emphasis on the fact that the mandate was against Congress and thus they had hoped that parties "like JD(S) would keep that in mind and act appropriately. But that was not the case. There was a tacit deal between Congress and JD(S) that led to a situation where we had to relinquish."

Meanwhile, Congress MP (Member of Parliament) Mallikarjun Kharge said that "keeping everything in mind" in the Karnataka elections, there should be a "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ought-to-be-give-and-take-equation-with-jds-in-karnataka-congress-mallikarjun-kharge-138359">give and take equation</a>" with the JD(S) while forming the cabinet.&nbsp;

"High command will take a decision. We, being a national party, supported JD(S) - a regional party, to uphold Constitutional principles and democracy. Keeping everything in mind, there ought to be a 'give & take' equation," Mallikarjun Kharge said.

On May 27, Kumaraswamy was invited by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to form the government in the state, after Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) three-day old chief minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/democracy-has-won-against-unholy-politics-of-intimidation-corruption-lies-congress-on-yeddyurappas-resignation-138205">BS Yeddyurappa stepped down</a> ahead of the floor test in the state assembly.

On May 27, Kumaraswamy was invited by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to form the government in the state, after Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) three-day old chief minister BS Yeddyurappa stepped down ahead of the floor test in the state assembly

BJP leader and party in-charge of Jammu and Kashmir Ram Madhav on Monday attacked Congress, calling them "the most corrupt party" adding that the decision of alliance with JD(S) is an ünethical deal." Madhav said: "Whole history of Congress is full of corruption. There's not been a single genuine charge against BJP Government in past 4 years. The most corrupt party is Congress and that corruption has reflected in the unethical deal that they have entered into with JD(S) in Karnataka." In reply to the BJP's move to influence Congress MLA's during floor tests, he said: "It's a democratic practice where the single largest party is given the opportunity. We had the right to seek that opportunity which we sought." "We have done no mistake. It's a democratic practice where the single largest party is given the opportunity. We had the right to seek that opportunity which we sought. It is a different matter that we weren't able to muster required numbers," he added. He laid emphasis on the fact that the mandate was against Congress and thus they had hoped that parties "like JD(S) would keep that in mind and act appropriately. But that was not the case. There was a tacit deal between Congress and JD(S) that led to a situation where we had to relinquish." Meanwhile, Congress MP (Member of Parliament) Mallikarjun Kharge said that "keeping everything in mind" in the Karnataka elections, there should be a "give and take equation" with the JD(S) while forming the cabinet. "High command will take a decision. We, being a national party, supported JD(S) - a regional party, to uphold Constitutional principles and democracy. Keeping everything in mind, there ought to be a 'give & take' equation," Mallikarjun Kharge said. On May 27, Kumaraswamy was invited by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala to form the government in the state, after Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) three-day old chief minister BS Yeddyurappa stepped down ahead of the floor test in the state assembly.

Congress' alliance with JD(S) unethical: BJP's Ram Madhav

Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar has quashed the claims that surfaced after the release&nbsp;of an audio clip showing BJP leader bribing a Congress MLA for votes.&nbsp;

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In a Facebook post on May 19, the MLA denied receiving any bribery call from the BJP. He also confirmed that the voice in the video was not of his&nbsp;wife.

Calling the video clip a fake, he condemned the act and said that the clip was&nbsp;forged for "political reasons".&nbsp;

His post on Facebook read,&nbsp;"It was late in the House that the tape was released by the BJP today that I had conducted with my wife in the news channels. 
It's not the voice of my wife and my wife has never called her phone. It is my disdain for anyone to duplicate false tapes for political reasons. 
This audio tape fake ... I condemn this. 
People in my constituency have allowed me to serve again. Thanks for them. 
My public work will continue".

The video was released by the Congress on the day of the floor test in Karnataka.

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Meanwhile, another Congress MLA BC Patil has said that he was offered Minister post by top BJP leaders such as Yeddyurappa, Sriramulu and Murlidhar Rao.

He said, " They (BJP) offered me Minister&nbsp;post and all, its a fact. I don't know about Hebber&nbsp;(Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar), I can talk about myself."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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They (BJP) offered me Minister post & all, it's a fact. I don't know about Hebbar (Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar who reportedly claimed that Congress lied about bribe tape), I can talk about myself. Yeddyurappa, Sriramulu & Muralidhar Rao spoke to me: BC Patil, Cong MLA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/pJoFIr0d3X">pic.twitter.com/pJoFIr0d3X</a>
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Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar said it was not his wife's voice on the purported audio clip of the BJP offering her a bribe. BC Patil however said the BJP had tried to bribe him

Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar has quashed the claims that surfaced after the release of an audio clip showing BJP leader bribing a Congress MLA for votes. × In a Facebook post on May 19, the MLA denied receiving any bribery call from the BJP. He also confirmed that the voice in the video was not of his wife. Calling the video clip a fake, he condemned the act and said that the clip was forged for "political reasons". His post on Facebook read, "It was late in the House that the tape was released by the BJP today that I had conducted with my wife in the news channels. It's not the voice of my wife and my wife has never called her phone. It is my disdain for anyone to duplicate false tapes for political reasons. This audio tape fake ... I condemn this. People in my constituency have allowed me to serve again. Thanks for them. My public work will continue". The video was released by the Congress on the day of the floor test in Karnataka. × Meanwhile, another Congress MLA BC Patil has said that he was offered Minister post by top BJP leaders such as Yeddyurappa, Sriramulu and Murlidhar Rao. He said, " They (BJP) offered me Minister post and all, its a fact. I don't know about Hebber (Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar), I can talk about myself." They (BJP) offered me Minister post & all, it's a fact. I don't know about Hebbar (Congress MLA Shivaram Hebbar who reportedly claimed that Congress lied about bribe tape), I can talk about myself. Yeddyurappa, Sriramulu & Muralidhar Rao spoke to me: BC Patil, Cong MLA #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/pJoFIr0d3X — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2018 ×

Karnataka Cong MLA says BJP bribe offer 'fake', another says it happened

Senior Congress leader form Karnataka DK Shivakumar said that the Congress party and Janata Dal (Secular) had to sort out their differences to pave way for a secular government in the state.

Admitting that the two parties were in conflict before the assembly elections in Karnataka, he said that they came together "in the interest of the nation and party".

He said,"In politics, I have been fighting against the Gowdas since 1985. In the last parliamentary election and assembly election against them, I won against his son, I won against his daughter-in-law. A lot of politics have been played. Lots of cases were also registered. But in the interests of the nation and party, we need a secular government in Karnataka".

He further said he had to "swallow all the bitterness" to implement Rahul Gandhi's decision of establishing a secular government in the state. &nbsp;

He said, "Rahul Gandhi has taken a decision that there should be a secular government in Karnataka. That is what the entire country needs and that is why we have taken this stand (alliance with JD-S). I had to swallow all this bitterness since this is my duty".

Answering a question on if he was happy on forming an alliance with the JD(S), Shivakumar said, "Sometimes, individuality doesn't count here. Individuality is not important. Whatever collective or major decisions are taken, one man may like or the other man may not like. I also gave consent for the formation of this government."

He also hinted on having a grand alliance against the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

He said, "this was the beginning of the formation of a grand alliance and this was to be achieved by the secular parties coming together".

Talking about the structure of the cabinet he said it will be discussed in the All India Congress Committee.

Asked whether the Congress-JD(S) government would complete five years, he further said, "Time will answer. I don't want to answer it right now. We have various issues, options before us, I can't tell right now."

While JD(S)'s also Kumaraswamy denied on the reports that stated that two parties were undergoing conflict. Calling the reports as "bogus and fake news" he said the claims were not true.

Another Congress leader Ramalina Reddy also said that the reports that surfaced stating a rift between the two parties were not true.

He said, "We are 100% happy, give and take policy is there, even in Bengaluru's Municipal Corporation alliance is functioning smoothly for 3 years. Ofcourse some people in both parties will have to sacrifice, as all cant become ministers".

(With inputs from ANI)

Admitting that the Congress-JD(S) were in conflict before the assembly elections in Karnataka, he said that the two came together 'in the interest of the nation and party'

Senior Congress leader form Karnataka DK Shivakumar said that the Congress party and Janata Dal (Secular) had to sort out their differences to pave way for a secular government in the state. Admitting that the two parties were in conflict before the assembly elections in Karnataka, he said that they came together "in the interest of the nation and party". He said,"In politics, I have been fighting against the Gowdas since 1985. In the last parliamentary election and assembly election against them, I won against his son, I won against his daughter-in-law. A lot of politics have been played. Lots of cases were also registered. But in the interests of the nation and party, we need a secular government in Karnataka". He further said he had to "swallow all the bitterness" to implement Rahul Gandhi's decision of establishing a secular government in the state. He said, "Rahul Gandhi has taken a decision that there should be a secular government in Karnataka. That is what the entire country needs and that is why we have taken this stand (alliance with JD-S). I had to swallow all this bitterness since this is my duty". Answering a question on if he was happy on forming an alliance with the JD(S), Shivakumar said, "Sometimes, individuality doesn't count here. Individuality is not important. Whatever collective or major decisions are taken, one man may like or the other man may not like. I also gave consent for the formation of this government." He also hinted on having a grand alliance against the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He said, "this was the beginning of the formation of a grand alliance and this was to be achieved by the secular parties coming together". Talking about the structure of the cabinet he said it will be discussed in the All India Congress Committee. Asked whether the Congress-JD(S) government would complete five years, he further said, "Time will answer. I don't want to answer it right now. We have various issues, options before us, I can't tell right now." While JD(S)'s also Kumaraswamy denied on the reports that stated that two parties were undergoing conflict. Calling the reports as "bogus and fake news" he said the claims were not true. Another Congress leader Ramalina Reddy also said that the reports that surfaced stating a rift between the two parties were not true. He said, "We are 100% happy, give and take policy is there, even in Bengaluru's Municipal Corporation alliance is functioning smoothly for 3 years. Ofcourse some people in both parties will have to sacrifice, as all cant become ministers". (With inputs from ANI)

Swallowed all bitterness for secular government in Karnataka: Congress MLA DK Shivakumar

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has called BS Yeddyurappa's resignation as Karnataka Chief Minister a "victory of democracy".

Chandrababu Naidu said that as a chief minister and someone who believed in democracy, he welcomed the development and that the whole country would be happy about what had transpired.

"This is a victory of democracy. As a chief minister and as someone who believes in democracy, I am welcoming this. Everyone in the country will be happy about this development," Naidu said.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP National President Amit Shah of trying to "deride the democracy" in Karnataka. He also questioned the message the Prime Minister and the BJP President have given to the nation and the youth.

Chandrababu Naidu further accused the BJP of bribing voters with Rs 10,000 for each vote and of bringing back tainted leader Janardhan Reddy to the forefront.

"Prime Minister told he will be honest, will bring back black money from Swiss Bank and abroad. But, BJP bribed upto Rs10,000 for each vote in the Karnataka elections. BJP brought back Janardhan Reddy who looted the mineral wealth in the country to the forefront and did politics, gave them seats," Naidu added.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister accused the BJP of "misusing the institution of Governor" in Karnataka.

JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy will now take oath as the chief minister of Karnataka on May 23 after he was invited by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai R Vala to form the government in the state.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yeddyurappa stepped down ahead of the floor test in the state assembly on Saturday.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister accused PM Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah of trying to 'deride the democracy' in Karnataka

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has called BS Yeddyurappa's resignation as Karnataka Chief Minister a "victory of democracy". Chandrababu Naidu said that as a chief minister and someone who believed in democracy, he welcomed the development and that the whole country would be happy about what had transpired. "This is a victory of democracy. As a chief minister and as someone who believes in democracy, I am welcoming this. Everyone in the country will be happy about this development," Naidu said. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP National President Amit Shah of trying to "deride the democracy" in Karnataka. He also questioned the message the Prime Minister and the BJP President have given to the nation and the youth. Chandrababu Naidu further accused the BJP of bribing voters with Rs 10,000 for each vote and of bringing back tainted leader Janardhan Reddy to the forefront. "Prime Minister told he will be honest, will bring back black money from Swiss Bank and abroad. But, BJP bribed upto Rs10,000 for each vote in the Karnataka elections. BJP brought back Janardhan Reddy who looted the mineral wealth in the country to the forefront and did politics, gave them seats," Naidu added. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister accused the BJP of "misusing the institution of Governor" in Karnataka. JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy will now take oath as the chief minister of Karnataka on May 23 after he was invited by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai R Vala to form the government in the state. Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) BS Yeddyurappa stepped down ahead of the floor test in the state assembly on Saturday. (With inputs from ANI)

Victory of democracy: Chandrababu Naidu on BJP's Karnataka setback

Following the political drama in Karnataka, the Congress party on Saturday slammed the BJP government, stating that if they had any shame then they should resign from Goa and also from other states from where they had "stolen the majority".

"Just like what happened in Karnataka, if BJP government has any shame then they should forthwith resign from Goa and also from the other states from where they have stolen the majority," Goa Congress spokesperson Yatish Naik said at a press conference in Panaji.

The Congress's statement comes hours after former Member of Indian Parliament (MP) Sanjay Nirupam drew a parallel between Governor Vala and the loyalty of dogs.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told ANI that the party did not support such statements and that unlike PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi and the Congress had regard even for their worst enemies.

"The Karnataka Governor murdered democracy. However, the Congress will not support any such statements. Rahul Gandhi and the Congress have regard even for their worst enemies, unlike Prime Minister Modi. Any statement made on him (Governor Vala) personally won't be accepted," Randeep Surjewala said.

On Saturday, BS Yeddyurappa announced his resignation as chief minister of Karnataka ahead of the floor test that was scheduled for him to prove majority at the state assembly.

Soon after, Sanjay Nirupam said, "Vajubhai Vala ji has established a new record of loyalty in this country. Perhaps, every man in this country will now name their dogs as Vajubhai Vala, because nobody can be more loyal than this."

"Today, democracy has won in the country. The people, who on the basis of their money and their ego, wanted to rule the world have lost today. This day will be remembered as the day when (Prime Minister) Modi and (Amit) Shah lost," he added. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

On Saturday, BS Yeddyurappa announced his resignation as chief minister of Karnataka ahead of the floor test that was scheduled for him to prove majority at the state assembly

Following the political drama in Karnataka, the Congress party on Saturday slammed the BJP government, stating that if they had any shame then they should resign from Goa and also from other states from where they had "stolen the majority". "Just like what happened in Karnataka, if BJP government has any shame then they should forthwith resign from Goa and also from the other states from where they have stolen the majority," Goa Congress spokesperson Yatish Naik said at a press conference in Panaji. The Congress's statement comes hours after former Member of Indian Parliament (MP) Sanjay Nirupam drew a parallel between Governor Vala and the loyalty of dogs. Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told ANI that the party did not support such statements and that unlike PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi and the Congress had regard even for their worst enemies. "The Karnataka Governor murdered democracy. However, the Congress will not support any such statements. Rahul Gandhi and the Congress have regard even for their worst enemies, unlike Prime Minister Modi. Any statement made on him (Governor Vala) personally won't be accepted," Randeep Surjewala said. On Saturday, BS Yeddyurappa announced his resignation as chief minister of Karnataka ahead of the floor test that was scheduled for him to prove majority at the state assembly. Soon after, Sanjay Nirupam said, "Vajubhai Vala ji has established a new record of loyalty in this country. Perhaps, every man in this country will now name their dogs as Vajubhai Vala, because nobody can be more loyal than this." "Today, democracy has won in the country. The people, who on the basis of their money and their ego, wanted to rule the world have lost today. This day will be remembered as the day when (Prime Minister) Modi and (Amit) Shah lost," he added. (With inputs from ANI)

BJP should resign from Goa, other states where they have 'stolen majority': Goa Congress

The JD(S)-Congress win&nbsp;in Karnataka is encouraging the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday.&nbsp;

A number of regional leaders — including Mamata Banerjee,&nbsp;N Chandrababu Naidu, Arvind Kejriwal, Mayawati, Sharad Pawar, Akhilesh Yadav, MK Stalin, and Tejashwi Yadav — have spoken out in support of the JD(S)-Congress win.&nbsp;

"Democracy wins. Congratulations Karnataka. Congratulations DeveGowda Ji, Kumaraswamy Ji, Congress and others. Victory of the 'regional' front," tweeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;

"Entire nation is happy with the current turn of events," tweeted Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.&nbsp;

"BJP’s attempts to subvert democracy have miserably failed in Karnataka," said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;

HD Kumaraswamy's swearing in on May 23 is expected to be a show of strength of this possible federal front&nbsp;with the Congress and the JD(S) inviting a number of leaders. All of the leaders mentioned above are expected to attend.&nbsp;

"I just spoke with Kumaraswamy Ji and congratulated him. He invited me for the oath taking ceremony," tweeted Mamata.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi too hinted at the formation of an alliance to take on the BJP in 2019.&nbsp;

"I am proud that opposition stood together and defeated the BJP and we will continue to do so," Rahul said to the media after BS Yeddyurappa's resignation as chief minister of Karnataka.&nbsp;

Sunday's news reports however added that the developments in Karnataka have made the Congress realise that it cannot be the leader of this possible federal front to take on the BJP in 2019, but only a part of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Democracy wins. Congratulations Karnataka. Congratulations DeveGowda Ji, Kumaraswamy Ji, Congress and others. Victory of the 'regional' front
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/997789228347133952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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BJP’s attempts to subvert democracy have miserably failed in Karnataka. BJP's lust for power through foul means stands completely exposed. Will BJP learn any lesson now ? 
 
India's judiciary has risen to the occasion and has safeguarded our democracy.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/997800430250942464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Truth can never be defeated! Truth will always defeat a lie or liar! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KaranatakaFloorTest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KaranatakaFloorTest</a>
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/997790392081960960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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आज का दिन भारतीय राजनीति में धनबल की जगह जनमत की जीत का दिन है. सबको खरीद लेने का दावा करने वालों को आज ये सबक मिल गया है कि अभी भी भारत की राजनीति में ऐसे लोग बाकी हैं, जो उनकी तरह राजनीति को कारोबार नहीं मानते हैं. नैतिक रूप से तो केंद्र की सरकार को भी इस्तीफ़ा दे देना चाहिए.
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/997805429060071424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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कर्नाटक विधानसभेतील बहुमतात असलेल्या सदस्यांचे अभिनंदन! प्रचंड दबाव-प्रलोभने असतानाही त्याला बळी न पडता आपल्या पक्षांच्या भूमिकेशी ते ठाम राहिले.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaFloorTest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaFloorTest</a>
— Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks/status/997849010751799300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Resignation of BS Yeddyurappa as Karnataka's CM is a true victory for democracy. Entire nation is happy with the current turn of events. As a Chief Minister and a firm believer of democracy, I am expressing my happiness.
— N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) <a href="https://twitter.com/ncbn/status/997817333866348545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The systematic abuse of Governor's office and wanton misuse of Speaker's powers by the BJP in other states, including TamilNadu, stand exposed from recent events in Karnataka. Hope this setback helps the BJP realise its mistake of propping up an illegitimate govt in TamilNadu.
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/997816945889046528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The BJP won 104 seats in the recent Karnataka elections. The Congress won 78, the JD(S) 37, and its pre-poll ally the BSP 1.&nbsp;

The Karnataka assembly has a total of 224 seats, but voting to two seats was postponed. 112 seats then were needed for a simple majority.&nbsp;

The BJP was short by 8 seats. The Congress and the JD(S) together were able to make the numbers.&nbsp;

The Congress' Rahul Gandhi had attacked the JD(S) on the campaign trail, calling it the "B-team of the BJP" but the Congress quickly offered the JD(S) an alliance and the chief ministership once the election results were out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
 
&nbsp;

The developments in Karnataka however have made the Congress realise that it cannot be the leader of a possible federal front to take on the BJP in 2019, but only a part of it

The JD(S)-Congress win in Karnataka is encouraging the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday. A number of regional leaders — including Mamata Banerjee, N Chandrababu Naidu, Arvind Kejriwal, Mayawati, Sharad Pawar, Akhilesh Yadav, MK Stalin, and Tejashwi Yadav — have spoken out in support of the JD(S)-Congress win. "Democracy wins. Congratulations Karnataka. Congratulations DeveGowda Ji, Kumaraswamy Ji, Congress and others. Victory of the 'regional' front," tweeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. "Entire nation is happy with the current turn of events," tweeted Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. "BJP’s attempts to subvert democracy have miserably failed in Karnataka," said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. HD Kumaraswamy's swearing in on May 23 is expected to be a show of strength of this possible federal front with the Congress and the JD(S) inviting a number of leaders. All of the leaders mentioned above are expected to attend. "I just spoke with Kumaraswamy Ji and congratulated him. He invited me for the oath taking ceremony," tweeted Mamata. Congress President Rahul Gandhi too hinted at the formation of an alliance to take on the BJP in 2019. "I am proud that opposition stood together and defeated the BJP and we will continue to do so," Rahul said to the media after BS Yeddyurappa's resignation as chief minister of Karnataka. Sunday's news reports however added that the developments in Karnataka have made the Congress realise that it cannot be the leader of this possible federal front to take on the BJP in 2019, but only a part of it. Democracy wins. Congratulations Karnataka. Congratulations DeveGowda Ji, Kumaraswamy Ji, Congress and others. Victory of the 'regional' front — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 19, 2018 × BJP’s attempts to subvert democracy have miserably failed in Karnataka. BJP's lust for power through foul means stands completely exposed. Will BJP learn any lesson now ? India's judiciary has risen to the occasion and has safeguarded our democracy. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 19, 2018 × Truth can never be defeated! Truth will always defeat a lie or liar! #KaranatakaFloorTest — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) May 19, 2018 × आज का दिन भारतीय राजनीति में धनबल की जगह जनमत की जीत का दिन है. सबको खरीद लेने का दावा करने वालों को आज ये सबक मिल गया है कि अभी भी भारत की राजनीति में ऐसे लोग बाकी हैं, जो उनकी तरह राजनीति को कारोबार नहीं मानते हैं. नैतिक रूप से तो केंद्र की सरकार को भी इस्तीफ़ा दे देना चाहिए. — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) May 19, 2018 × कर्नाटक विधानसभेतील बहुमतात असलेल्या सदस्यांचे अभिनंदन! प्रचंड दबाव-प्रलोभने असतानाही त्याला बळी न पडता आपल्या पक्षांच्या भूमिकेशी ते ठाम राहिले.#KarnatakaFloorTest — Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) May 19, 2018 × Resignation of BS Yeddyurappa as Karnataka's CM is a true victory for democracy. Entire nation is happy with the current turn of events. As a Chief Minister and a firm believer of democracy, I am expressing my happiness. — N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) May 19, 2018 × The systematic abuse of Governor's office and wanton misuse of Speaker's powers by the BJP in other states, including TamilNadu, stand exposed from recent events in Karnataka. Hope this setback helps the BJP realise its mistake of propping up an illegitimate govt in TamilNadu. — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) May 19, 2018 × The BJP won 104 seats in the recent Karnataka elections. The Congress won 78, the JD(S) 37, and its pre-poll ally the BSP 1. The Karnataka assembly has a total of 224 seats, but voting to two seats was postponed. 112 seats then were needed for a simple majority. The BJP was short by 8 seats. The Congress and the JD(S) together were able to make the numbers. The Congress' Rahul Gandhi had attacked the JD(S) on the campaign trail, calling it the "B-team of the BJP" but the Congress quickly offered the JD(S) an alliance and the chief ministership once the election results were out.

Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of 'federal front' against BJP

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-true-i-had-spoken-to-a-few-of-them-yeddyurappa-admits-he-asked-opposition-mlas-to-cross-vote-138302">It is true I had spoken to a few of them: Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote</a>

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306">Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306">federal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306"> front against BJP</a>

The JD(S)-Congress win&nbspin Karnataka has encouraged the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday.

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United States First Lady Melania Trump on Saturday returned to the White House after a successful kidney procedure, the office announced in a statement.

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Antonio Conte has warned Chelsea he will never change his demanding ways as the FA Cup winning boss waits to discover if he will be sacked.

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Priyanka Chopra, who was one of the guests invited for the&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/royal-wedding-live-updates-prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-to-wed-at-windsor-castle-today-138144">royal wedding</a>&nbspyesterday said that she teared up after seeing the ceremony and has left a heartfelt note to the close friend and bride Meghan Markle.

It is true I had spoken to a few of them: Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy". Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of federal front against BJP The JD(S)-Congress win&nbspin Karnataka has encouraged the formation of a "federal front" against the BJP, news reports said Sunday. Trump welcomes Melania home after kidney procedure, misspells her name United States First Lady Melania Trump on Saturday returned to the White House after a successful kidney procedure, the office announced in a statement. 'I'll never change,' Chelsea's Conte says after winning FA cup Antonio Conte has warned Chelsea he will never change his demanding ways as the FA Cup winning boss waits to discover if he will be sacked. When time stands still: Priyanka Chopra writes heartfelt note to friend Meghan Markle Priyanka Chopra, who was one of the guests invited for the royal wedding&nbspyesterday said that she teared up after seeing the ceremony and has left a heartfelt note to the close friend and bride Meghan Markle.

Events in Karnataka may not have gone according to plan, but the BJP believes it can make a comeback, thanks to the inherent contradictions in the Congress-JD(S) alliance in the state.

The likely consolidation of a section of voters, especially Lingayats, behind the BJP would also help keep the party in pole position in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, its leaders said.

"We may have lost the battle, but we will win the war," said a party leader, referring to the next Lok Sabha polls.

The marathon three-day political slugfest in the state culminated in B S Yeddyurappa resigning as chief minister yesterday after he failed to muster the support of seven additional MLAs to ensure he remained in office.

A number of BJP leaders said the party's efforts to form a government in Karnataka were driven by two factors -- first, they believed the people's mandate was in favour of their party.

Second, a government in the state would have bolstered its prospects for political successes in other parts of south India where, barring Karnataka, the saffron party has never posed a serious challenge to its rivals.&nbsp

The dramatic collapse of the three-day Yeddyurappa government is being viewed as a setback to the party, with the opposition parties claiming the BJP tried to poach their MLAs but failed miserably. The BJP has denied the allegations.

Though its hopes of forming a government in Karnataka have been thwarted for the time-being, the BJP believes an amalgamation of factors will help it engineer a comeback in the state.

A BJP leader said the JD(S) and the Congress were political rivals, and their alliance was bound to be unsuccessful at the ground level because of the "competing interests" of their support groups.

Bonhomie between the top leaders of two parties may not translate into consolidation of their vote bases, especially when they have always worked against each other. There are inherent contradictions in the alliance, another BJP leader said.

Most of the JD(S) candidates faced Congress nominees as their main rivals in the elections, he said.

The BJP's presence is limited in the Old Mysore region, the Vokkaliga heartland and a JD(S) stronghold. An alliance between two rivals would help the BJP capture more space in the region, he said.

Sources said the BJP believes that the Lingayats and a few other groups will further consolidate behind the party in the wake of the JD(S) and the Congress, two "arch rivals", joining hands to keep it out of power.

The political instability in the state stemmed from a fractured verdict the electorate gave on May 15, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party but falling short of a majority.

The Congress, which finished second with 78 seats, moved swiftly and stitched an alliance with the 37-member JD(S), and even backed its leader H D Kumaraswamy for chief ministership.

The Congress-JD(S) managed to keep its flock of 117 MLAs together in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221, leaving Yeddyurappa with little choice but to put in his papers after giving an emotional speech in the assembly.

The Lingayat leader said the BJP would win all 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state next year, asserting that people's mandate was for his party to form a government.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, the BJP had won 17, the Congress nine and the JD(S) two seats in the state.

BJP president Amit Shah had yesterday said a government of an ''unholy&nbspalliance'' was unlikely to last long.&nbsp

The likely consolidation of a section of voters, especially Lingayats, behind the BJP would also help keep the party in pole position in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, its leaders said.

Events in Karnataka may not have gone according to plan, but the BJP believes it can make a comeback, thanks to the inherent contradictions in the Congress-JD(S) alliance in the state. The likely consolidation of a section of voters, especially Lingayats, behind the BJP would also help keep the party in pole position in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, its leaders said. "We may have lost the battle, but we will win the war," said a party leader, referring to the next Lok Sabha polls. The marathon three-day political slugfest in the state culminated in B S Yeddyurappa resigning as chief minister yesterday after he failed to muster the support of seven additional MLAs to ensure he remained in office. A number of BJP leaders said the party's efforts to form a government in Karnataka were driven by two factors -- first, they believed the people's mandate was in favour of their party. Second, a government in the state would have bolstered its prospects for political successes in other parts of south India where, barring Karnataka, the saffron party has never posed a serious challenge to its rivals. The dramatic collapse of the three-day Yeddyurappa government is being viewed as a setback to the party, with the opposition parties claiming the BJP tried to poach their MLAs but failed miserably. The BJP has denied the allegations. Though its hopes of forming a government in Karnataka have been thwarted for the time-being, the BJP believes an amalgamation of factors will help it engineer a comeback in the state. A BJP leader said the JD(S) and the Congress were political rivals, and their alliance was bound to be unsuccessful at the ground level because of the "competing interests" of their support groups. Bonhomie between the top leaders of two parties may not translate into consolidation of their vote bases, especially when they have always worked against each other. There are inherent contradictions in the alliance, another BJP leader said. Most of the JD(S) candidates faced Congress nominees as their main rivals in the elections, he said. The BJP's presence is limited in the Old Mysore region, the Vokkaliga heartland and a JD(S) stronghold. An alliance between two rivals would help the BJP capture more space in the region, he said. Sources said the BJP believes that the Lingayats and a few other groups will further consolidate behind the party in the wake of the JD(S) and the Congress, two "arch rivals", joining hands to keep it out of power. The political instability in the state stemmed from a fractured verdict the electorate gave on May 15, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party but falling short of a majority. The Congress, which finished second with 78 seats, moved swiftly and stitched an alliance with the 37-member JD(S), and even backed its leader H D Kumaraswamy for chief ministership. The Congress-JD(S) managed to keep its flock of 117 MLAs together in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221, leaving Yeddyurappa with little choice but to put in his papers after giving an emotional speech in the assembly. The Lingayat leader said the BJP would win all 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state next year, asserting that people's mandate was for his party to form a government. In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, the BJP had won 17, the Congress nine and the JD(S) two seats in the state. BJP president Amit Shah had yesterday said a government of an ''unholy&nbspalliance'' was unlikely to last long.

BJP believes it can make a comeback in Karnataka, win 2019 war

Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly.&nbsp;

The BJP Chief Minister, who was sworn in on Thursday could not gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the state assembly during the floor test.

He made an emotional speech before he announced his resignation. He said that the people of Karnataka will now be "ruled by an unholy alliance".

The BJP was eight short of the majority mark in the 224-member Karnataka Assembly.&nbsp;

Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House.

BJP had won the first round of the legal battle after the results were out on May 15 but failed to gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the Karnataka state Assembly.&nbsp;

Since the numbers are not in favour of the BJP, Yeddyurappa stepped down from his post today, saying that he is thankful for the love and support people gave him.&nbsp;

"The election results are now out. Today is the floor test. Think for once, if we had 113, the picture would have been different," BS Yeddyurappa said.&nbsp;

The results of the Karnataka Assembly Elections threw up a fractured mandate on the counting day and led to political instability in the state.&nbsp;

On May 15, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, followed by the Congress with 78, JD(S) with 37. Three seats were bagged by independent candidates in the 224-member Assembly where elections were held for 222 seats.&nbsp;

For 2019, I promise, we will win 28 out of all 28 Lok Sabha seats. I won't relent. I will continue to fight. I thank people of Karnataka Yeddyurappa

Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly. The BJP Chief Minister, who was sworn in on Thursday could not gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the state assembly during the floor test. He made an emotional speech before he announced his resignation. He said that the people of Karnataka will now be "ruled by an unholy alliance". The BJP was eight short of the majority mark in the 224-member Karnataka Assembly. Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House. BJP had won the first round of the legal battle after the results were out on May 15 but failed to gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the Karnataka state Assembly. Since the numbers are not in favour of the BJP, Yeddyurappa stepped down from his post today, saying that he is thankful for the love and support people gave him. "The election results are now out. Today is the floor test. Think for once, if we had 113, the picture would have been different," BS Yeddyurappa said. The results of the Karnataka Assembly Elections threw up a fractured mandate on the counting day and led to political instability in the state. On May 15, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, followed by the Congress with 78, JD(S) with 37. Three seats were bagged by independent candidates in the 224-member Assembly where elections were held for 222 seats.

Yeddyurappa resigns as Karnataka CM before trust vote, BJP fails to prove majority

The turn of events that compelled the BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa to resign as Karnataka chief minister was a flashback to 1996 when a similar fate had forced then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to resign his post.

Vajpayee had assumed office as the 10th prime minister of India in May 1996. He was invited by the president to form the government after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP had won 161 seats out of 545. Along with its allies, the party had gained authority over 194 seats. The majority mark required to form the government was 272.&nbsp;

Vajpayee held the position of prime minister for 13 days. However, he failed to&nbsp;garner enough support and was eventually forced to step down. After Vajpayee's resignation on May 27, 1996, his government was replaced by an alliance between the Congress and the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress, which was the second largest party with 140 seats, gave the United Front outside support.

On Saturday, the Karnataka legislative assembly witnessed the resignation of the two-day-old BJP government led by BS Yeddyurappa. Despite scoring the highest number of seats (104)&nbsp;in the elections, the BJP failed to form a government in the state. The Congress, which emerged the second-largest party with 78 seats, extended its support to the JD(S), which is the third-largest party with&nbsp;37 seats.

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Gowda became&nbsp;the country's 11th prime minister, replacing Vajpayee's 13-day BJP government.

Similar to 1996, the BJP government in Karnataka led by BS Yeddyurappa will be replaced by a JD(S)-Congress alliance lead by HD Deve Gowda's son HD Kumaraswamy.

The only difference is that the Congress this time is part of the government.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy's swearing-in ceremeony will be held on May 23 in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Vajpayee's 13-day government was replaced in 1996 by the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress gave Gowda outside support

The turn of events that compelled the BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa to resign as Karnataka chief minister was a flashback to 1996 when a similar fate had forced then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to resign his post. Vajpayee had assumed office as the 10th prime minister of India in May 1996. He was invited by the president to form the government after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP had won 161 seats out of 545. Along with its allies, the party had gained authority over 194 seats. The majority mark required to form the government was 272. Vajpayee held the position of prime minister for 13 days. However, he failed to garner enough support and was eventually forced to step down. After Vajpayee's resignation on May 27, 1996, his government was replaced by an alliance between the Congress and the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front. The Congress, which was the second largest party with 140 seats, gave the United Front outside support. On Saturday, the Karnataka legislative assembly witnessed the resignation of the two-day-old BJP government led by BS Yeddyurappa. Despite scoring the highest number of seats (104) in the elections, the BJP failed to form a government in the state. The Congress, which emerged the second-largest party with 78 seats, extended its support to the JD(S), which is the third-largest party with 37 seats. × Gowda became the country's 11th prime minister, replacing Vajpayee's 13-day BJP government. Similar to 1996, the BJP government in Karnataka led by BS Yeddyurappa will be replaced by a JD(S)-Congress alliance lead by HD Deve Gowda's son HD Kumaraswamy. The only difference is that the Congress this time is part of the government. Kumaraswamy's swearing-in ceremeony will be held on May 23 in Bengaluru.

Yeddyurappa's resignation is a replay of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's in 1996

The Jammu and Kashmir police detained moderate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-in-jk-separatist-leaders-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-syed-ali-shah-geelani-put-under-house-arrest--138094">Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq</a> along with several other leaders and activists of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF).on Saturday after he defied house arrest.

The separatist leader was detained after he tried to march towards Lal Chowk city centre in Srinagar to demand the Kashmir issue resolution during Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi's visit to the state.

On Friday, Farook had called the people to present their "Man Ki Baat" to the Prime Minister on Lal Chowk. He had also asked the people for a complete shut down in the state.

He said while addressing a Friday congregation at Jama Masjid "Mr Modi all have been listening to your 'Mann ki Baat' for years now. As you come here tomorrow, allow us Kashmiris to peacefully gather at Lal Chowk so that you hear our 'Mann ki baat'! It's just three words-- Resolve Kashmir Dispute".

The Joint Resistance Leadership comprises Mirwaiz, Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mohammad Yasin Malik had said, "India will try to use the visit of its prime minister to mislead the world community and its own people by claiming that people of Jammu and Kashmir are happy being part of India. The ground reality is that the situation in the state is like hell".

The separatist leaders were put under house arrest ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state as&nbsp;restrictions were imposed in parts of the city following their call to march towards Lal Chowk.

&nbsp;

The separatist leader was detained after he tried to march towards Lal Chowk city centre in Srinagar to demand the Kashmir issue resolution during Prime Minister Modi's visit to the state

The Jammu and Kashmir police detained moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq along with several other leaders and activists of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF).on Saturday after he defied house arrest. The separatist leader was detained after he tried to march towards Lal Chowk city centre in Srinagar to demand the Kashmir issue resolution during Prime Minister Modi's visit to the state. On Friday, Farook had called the people to present their "Man Ki Baat" to the Prime Minister on Lal Chowk. He had also asked the people for a complete shut down in the state. He said while addressing a Friday congregation at Jama Masjid "Mr Modi all have been listening to your 'Mann ki Baat' for years now. As you come here tomorrow, allow us Kashmiris to peacefully gather at Lal Chowk so that you hear our 'Mann ki baat'! It's just three words-- Resolve Kashmir Dispute". The Joint Resistance Leadership comprises Mirwaiz, Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mohammad Yasin Malik had said, "India will try to use the visit of its prime minister to mislead the world community and its own people by claiming that people of Jammu and Kashmir are happy being part of India. The ground reality is that the situation in the state is like hell". The separatist leaders were put under house arrest ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state as restrictions were imposed in parts of the city following their call to march towards Lal Chowk.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq detained after he defies house arrest in Jammu and Kashmir

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yeddyurappa-resigns-as-karnataka-cm-ahead-of-floor-test-bjp-fails-to-prove-majority-138218">Yeddyurappa resigns as Karnataka CM before trust vote, BJP fails to prove majority</a>

Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly.&nbsp

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Weeks ahead of Saudi Arabia is to lift the ban from women driving, seven women's rights activists were arrested on Saturday by the authorities.

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From Oprah Winfrey to Priyanka Chopra to Prince Harry's ex Chelsy Davy, the royal wedding saw Hollywood royalty rub shoulders with British aristocracy.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-stone-weapon-raised-by-misguided-youths-destabilises-kashmir-pm-modi-138229">Every stone, weapon raised by misguided youths destabilises Kashmir: PM Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday appealed to those Kashmiri youth who have joined violence to return to their homes and live a life of dignity and peace.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-wary-as-eu-presents-measures-to-save-nuclear-deal-138187">Iran wary as EU presents measures to save </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-wary-as-eu-presents-measures-to-save-nuclear-deal-138187">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-wary-as-eu-presents-measures-to-save-nuclear-deal-138187"> deal</a>

Iran said Saturday it would wait to see whether Europe produces tangible results in overcoming US sanctions before deciding whether to stay in the nuclear deal, as a top EU official visited Tehran to present plans to maintain trade ties.

&nbsp

Yeddyurappa resigns as Karnataka CM before trust vote, BJP fails to prove majority Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly. Saudi Arabia detains seven activists ahead of lifting of driving ban Weeks ahead of Saudi Arabia is to lift the ban from women driving, seven women's rights activists were arrested on Saturday by the authorities. As it happened: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married in a star-studded ceremony From Oprah Winfrey to Priyanka Chopra to Prince Harry's ex Chelsy Davy, the royal wedding saw Hollywood royalty rub shoulders with British aristocracy. Every stone, weapon raised by misguided youths destabilises Kashmir: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday appealed to those Kashmiri youth who have joined violence to return to their homes and live a life of dignity and peace. Iran wary as EU presents measures to save nuclear deal Iran said Saturday it would wait to see whether Europe produces tangible results in overcoming US sanctions before deciding whether to stay in the nuclear deal, as a top EU official visited Tehran to present plans to maintain trade ties.

As few hours are left to go for the floor test in Karnataka, speculations are on the rise of the two Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratapgowda Patil who have gone incommunicado.

According to sources,&nbsp;BJP MLA G Somashekhar Reddy is with the two 'missing' Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratap Gowda.

Some TV reports had claimed earlier&nbsp;that the two time MLA from Vijayanagara (Ballari), Anand Singh would resign from the Congress after taking oath as the member of the Karnataka assembly. &nbsp;

The other Congress MLA Pratapgowda Patil had also slipped out of the Congress party.&nbsp;

According to some reports, the MLA had fleed the Congress bus to Eagleton resort and boarded a flight out of the HAL airport.&nbsp;

Patil had won previously from the BJP ticket in 2008 and was asking for a ticket from the party in the recent elections too. However, the BJP had denied his demands.

He won the recent polls on Congress ticket from the Masik constituency in Raichur.

Some media reports have also indicated that the BJP was trying to contact the discontent MLAs from Congress and JDS in order to woo their support and attain the required majority.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Two Congress MLAs Anand Singh & Pratap Gowda Patil have not yet come to the assembly for oath-taking. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FloorTest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FloorTest</a> to be held at 4 pm today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/I5zInGgWAn">pic.twitter.com/I5zInGgWAn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/997720727808753664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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BJP MLA G Somashekhar Reddy is with the two 'missing' Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratap Gouda: Sources <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaFloorTest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaFloorTest</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/997740400843599873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As few hours are left to go for the floor test in Karnataka, speculations are on the rise of the two Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratapgowda Patil who have gone incommunicado

As few hours are left to go for the floor test in Karnataka, speculations are on the rise of the two Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratapgowda Patil who have gone incommunicado. According to sources, BJP MLA G Somashekhar Reddy is with the two 'missing' Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratap Gowda. Some TV reports had claimed earlier that the two time MLA from Vijayanagara (Ballari), Anand Singh would resign from the Congress after taking oath as the member of the Karnataka assembly. The other Congress MLA Pratapgowda Patil had also slipped out of the Congress party. According to some reports, the MLA had fleed the Congress bus to Eagleton resort and boarded a flight out of the HAL airport. Patil had won previously from the BJP ticket in 2008 and was asking for a ticket from the party in the recent elections too. However, the BJP had denied his demands. He won the recent polls on Congress ticket from the Masik constituency in Raichur. Some media reports have also indicated that the BJP was trying to contact the discontent MLAs from Congress and JDS in order to woo their support and attain the required majority. Two Congress MLAs Anand Singh & Pratap Gowda Patil have not yet come to the assembly for oath-taking. #FloorTest to be held at 4 pm today. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/I5zInGgWAn — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2018 × BJP MLA G Somashekhar Reddy is with the two 'missing' Congress MLAs Anand Singh and Pratap Gouda: Sources #KarnatakaFloorTest — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2018 ×

Karnataka floor test: BJP lawmaker with 2 'missing' Congress MLAs say sources

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