The YSR Congress Party, led by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, on Thursday stormed to power in Andhra Pradesh with a landslide victory, winning 148 seats in the 175-member Assembly. The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) was leading in two other constituencies. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which was in power, bit the dust across the state, only bagging 19 seats so far while being ahead in 5 other seats. Watch this video to know more.

India Votes: Jagan Reddy trumps Chandrababu Naidu

By: Prasad Bhosekar

After a landslide victory, YSR Jaganmohan Reddy (46) is all set to become the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh. The AP voters gave a sweeping mandate to Jagan for both state and the Centre, decimating chief minister Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Jaganmohan Reddy's YSRCP has won 151 Assembly seats out of the total 175 seats of Andhra Pradesh&nbsp;and 22 of its Lok Sabha seats. Sources said that Reddy is likely to take oath as CM on May 30.

"Ravali Jagan...Kavaali Jagan," ( Jagan should come...we want Jagan ) was the famous slogan coined by his supporters in Yuvajana Shramika Rythu Congress Party ( YSRCP ) in Andhra Pradesh in the run-up to 2019 General Elections.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh went to polls for 25 Lok Sabha seats and 175 Assembly constituencies on April 11.&nbsp;

However, with this development, the worst political nightmare of outgoing Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has come true.

It's no secret that YS Jaganmohan Reddy wanted Chief Minister's post right after his father and former Chief Minister of united Andhra Pradesh Late YS Rajashekar Reddy died in a helicopter crash on September 2, 2009.&nbsp;

However, the Indian National Congress party had firmly denied and since then Jagan started to chalk out his own plans and strategies.
<img alt="YS Jaganmohan Reddy" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afba6a95-5aa6-48dd-8549-a51bdffa97b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_10.jpg" />
YS Jaganmohan Reddy with K Lokesh Reddy (right).

Jagan's dream of becoming Chief Minister did not materialise even in 2014 when the residual state of Andhra Pradesh from which Telangana carved out came into existence.&nbsp;

Jagan was super confident that he will become the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and on the morning of the results day on May 16, 2014, plans was chalked out for his swearing-in and portfolios were being discussed in YSRCP.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jagan Mohan Reddy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="825651ed-55c8-46cf-be98-226c87c61928" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190523-WA0029.jpg" /> 
 
YSRCP Rajyasabha MP Vijaysai Reddy congratulates Jagan Mohan Reddy after results.

But TDP trounced YSRCP and Chandrababu Naidu became the Chief Minister and also TDP's alliance with Narendra Modi - BJP helped.

Factors wherein Jagan and his YSRCP did extremely well in 2019

Right from 2014, the politics in Andhra Pradesh is dominated only by two parties- TDP and YSRCP. &nbsp;It continued in 2019 and where did the "seasoned'' and "seniormost politician'' as he calls himself Chandrababu Naidu go wrong.

"From 2014 till we broke our alliance with the BJP, YS Jaganmohan Reddy was only our political enemy. But we made unnecessary enemies especially out of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao,'' said Lanka Dinakar, the TDP official spokesperson.

"Another biggest blunder was teaming up with the Congress party. Our party was born out of the opposition of Congress party and they were always our prime political adversary and people of Andhra Pradesh, we are still bitter about Congress for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. By teaming up with the Congress we made a terrible mistake," Dinakar added.

&nbsp;After tasting bitter defeat in 2014 elections and when the number of MLAs switched over to TDP, Jagan changed track and formulated better strategies.&nbsp;

His "Padayatra" wherein he walked 3468 km across length and breadth of Andhra Pradesh from November 2017 to January 2019 was one giant leap towards reaching the Chief Minister's chair. His padayatra was a huge success wherein people thronged to see and hear him. YSRCP supporters locally and from abroad helped him in getting closer to people.

One of Jagan supporter K Lokesh Reddy came as far from Melbourne in Australia and met him along with 17 of his friends from Australia stayed in Andhra Pradesh for three months from starting January 10 this year.&nbsp;

"Jagan Anna ( as he is popularly called by his supporters ) made a sincere effort through his Padayatra to convince people that they can completely trust him and he will genuinely solve their issues,'' informs Lokesh Reddy, who is busy in party's celebrations in Vijayawada.&nbsp;

"People were fed up with Naidu and his false promises and saw through his lies especially on the Special Category Status issue. We ( YSRCP ) released our manifesto with just two pages wherein we have promised what we can deliver and the people were convinced," said Lokesh.

Though YSRCP won with huge numbers both in Assembly and Parliament, Jagan's road ahead as Chief Minister will not be smooth according to political analysts.&nbsp;

"The Andhra Pradesh economy is in shambles and Jagan has to walk on a tight rope on many fronts to live up to the voters' expectations,'' said PL Vishweshwara Rao, former Dean, Department of Communication &amp; Journalism, Osmania University.

Andhra Pradesh politics in the next five years- will be keenly watched and surely, as seen in many Telugu potboilers, there will be a lot of action.

By: Prasad Bhosekar After a landslide victory, YSR Jaganmohan Reddy (46) is all set to become the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh. The AP voters gave a sweeping mandate to Jagan for both state and the Centre, decimating chief minister Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

By: Prasad Bhosekar After a landslide victory, YSR Jaganmohan Reddy (46) is all set to become the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh. The AP voters gave a sweeping mandate to Jagan for both state and the Centre, decimating chief minister Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Jaganmohan Reddy's YSRCP has won 151 Assembly seats out of the total 175 seats of Andhra Pradesh and 22 of its Lok Sabha seats. Sources said that Reddy is likely to take oath as CM on May 30. "Ravali Jagan...Kavaali Jagan," ( Jagan should come...we want Jagan ) was the famous slogan coined by his supporters in Yuvajana Shramika Rythu Congress Party ( YSRCP ) in Andhra Pradesh in the run-up to 2019 General Elections. Andhra Pradesh went to polls for 25 Lok Sabha seats and 175 Assembly constituencies on April 11. However, with this development, the worst political nightmare of outgoing Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has come true. It's no secret that YS Jaganmohan Reddy wanted Chief Minister's post right after his father and former Chief Minister of united Andhra Pradesh Late YS Rajashekar Reddy died in a helicopter crash on September 2, 2009. However, the Indian National Congress party had firmly denied and since then Jagan started to chalk out his own plans and strategies. YS Jaganmohan Reddy with K Lokesh Reddy (right). Jagan's dream of becoming Chief Minister did not materialise even in 2014 when the residual state of Andhra Pradesh from which Telangana carved out came into existence. Jagan was super confident that he will become the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and on the morning of the results day on May 16, 2014, plans was chalked out for his swearing-in and portfolios were being discussed in YSRCP. YSRCP Rajyasabha MP Vijaysai Reddy congratulates Jagan Mohan Reddy after results. But TDP trounced YSRCP and Chandrababu Naidu became the Chief Minister and also TDP's alliance with Narendra Modi - BJP helped. Factors wherein Jagan and his YSRCP did extremely well in 2019 Right from 2014, the politics in Andhra Pradesh is dominated only by two parties- TDP and YSRCP. It continued in 2019 and where did the "seasoned'' and "seniormost politician'' as he calls himself Chandrababu Naidu go wrong. "From 2014 till we broke our alliance with the BJP, YS Jaganmohan Reddy was only our political enemy. But we made unnecessary enemies especially out of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao,'' said Lanka Dinakar, the TDP official spokesperson. "Another biggest blunder was teaming up with the Congress party. Our party was born out of the opposition of Congress party and they were always our prime political adversary and people of Andhra Pradesh, we are still bitter about Congress for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. By teaming up with the Congress we made a terrible mistake," Dinakar added. After tasting bitter defeat in 2014 elections and when the number of MLAs switched over to TDP, Jagan changed track and formulated better strategies. His "Padayatra" wherein he walked 3468 km across length and breadth of Andhra Pradesh from November 2017 to January 2019 was one giant leap towards reaching the Chief Minister's chair. His padayatra was a huge success wherein people thronged to see and hear him. YSRCP supporters locally and from abroad helped him in getting closer to people. One of Jagan supporter K Lokesh Reddy came as far from Melbourne in Australia and met him along with 17 of his friends from Australia stayed in Andhra Pradesh for three months from starting January 10 this year. "Jagan Anna ( as he is popularly called by his supporters ) made a sincere effort through his Padayatra to convince people that they can completely trust him and he will genuinely solve their issues,'' informs Lokesh Reddy, who is busy in party's celebrations in Vijayawada. "People were fed up with Naidu and his false promises and saw through his lies especially on the Special Category Status issue. We ( YSRCP ) released our manifesto with just two pages wherein we have promised what we can deliver and the people were convinced," said Lokesh. Though YSRCP won with huge numbers both in Assembly and Parliament, Jagan's road ahead as Chief Minister will not be smooth according to political analysts. "The Andhra Pradesh economy is in shambles and Jagan has to walk on a tight rope on many fronts to live up to the voters' expectations,'' said PL Vishweshwara Rao, former Dean, Department of Communication & Journalism, Osmania University. Andhra Pradesh politics in the next five years- will be keenly watched and surely, as seen in many Telugu potboilers, there will be a lot of action.

Strong start for Jagan Mohan Reddy, but big challenges ahead for new Andhra Pradesh chief minister

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post&nbsp;as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state.

With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state.&nbsp;

In the wake of this massive loss, TDP chief Naidu will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

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Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is likely to tender his resignation later today <a href="https://t.co/zmT3JAOcdZ">https://t.co/zmT3JAOcdZ</a>
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Of the data available for 173 seats of the total 175, the Telugu Desam Party is leading in 29 seats with Pawan Kumar's Jan Kalyan in two.

TDP supremo and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy are leading over the respective rival candidates.

Naidu initially trailed by 67 votes but bounced back to secure a lead over his nearest YSRC rival.

The results came as a huge shock to TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, who was not only confident of retaining power in the state but was hoping to play the role of kingmaker at the Centre.

In 2014, the TDP had bagged 102 seats while its then ally BJP had won four seats. The YSRCP had won 67 seats while two independents were also elected.

In the Lok Sabha elections held simultaneously, the TDP had won 15 and the BJP two seats. The YSRCP bagged the remaining eight seats.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state. With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state. With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state. In the wake of this massive loss, TDP chief Naidu will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is likely to tender his resignation later today https://t.co/zmT3JAOcdZ — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2019 × Of the data available for 173 seats of the total 175, the Telugu Desam Party is leading in 29 seats with Pawan Kumar's Jan Kalyan in two. TDP supremo and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy are leading over the respective rival candidates. Naidu initially trailed by 67 votes but bounced back to secure a lead over his nearest YSRC rival. The results came as a huge shock to TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, who was not only confident of retaining power in the state but was hoping to play the role of kingmaker at the Centre. In 2014, the TDP had bagged 102 seats while its then ally BJP had won four seats. The YSRCP had won 67 seats while two independents were also elected. In the Lok Sabha elections held simultaneously, the TDP had won 15 and the BJP two seats. The YSRCP bagged the remaining eight seats.

Lok Sabha election result 2019: Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu set to resign

Two days ahead of the Lok Sabha poll results, top opposition leaders will meet in Delhi on Tuesday to discuss the political situation and possibilities of a non-NDA alliance to stake claim for government formation.

Chandrababu Naidu meets West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata

A day after meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/hope-naidus-excitement-last-till-may-23-shiv-sena-mocks-andhra-cm-220025"> Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu</a> will meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee here on Monday, sources said.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president will meet Banerjee as part of his efforts to unite opposition parties against the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha election results on May 23.

"Naidu will hold a meeting with Mamata Banerjee at West Bengal secretariat this afternoon. Both will hold talks on the strategies of the 'mahagatbandhan' (grand alliance)," a highly placed source said.

During his interaction with Banerjee, Naidu is expected to brief her about his meetings with all political leaders in New Delhi over the weekend, the source said.

Naidu had a busy Sunday as he called on the Gandhis,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-nationalist-congress-party-supremo-sharad-pawar-meets-n-chandrababu-naidu-in-delhi-219863"> Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar</a> and Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury.

On Saturday, he had met Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.

Dubbing the exit polls "gossip", Banerjee Sunday said she doesn't trust such surveys as the "game plan" is to use them for "manipulation" of EVMs.

Her remarks came after most exit polls forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some predicting that the BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

A day after meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee here on Monday, sources said.

A day after meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee here on Monday, sources said. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president will meet Banerjee as part of his efforts to unite opposition parties against the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha election results on May 23. "Naidu will hold a meeting with Mamata Banerjee at West Bengal secretariat this afternoon. Both will hold talks on the strategies of the 'mahagatbandhan' (grand alliance)," a highly placed source said. During his interaction with Banerjee, Naidu is expected to brief her about his meetings with all political leaders in New Delhi over the weekend, the source said. Naidu had a busy Sunday as he called on the Gandhis, Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar and Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury. On Saturday, he had met Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Dubbing the exit polls "gossip", Banerjee Sunday said she doesn't trust such surveys as the "game plan" is to use them for "manipulation" of EVMs. Her remarks came after most exit polls forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some predicting that the BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

Chandrababu Naidu to meet Mamata Banerjee for post-poll alliance talks in Kolkata

A day after meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu meets West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Chandrababu Naidu meets Mamata Banerjee for post-poll alliance talks in Kolkata

Continuing his efforts to unite opposition parties against the BJP ahead of Lok Sabha results, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-nationalist-congress-party-supremo-sharad-pawar-meets-n-chandrababu-naidu-in-delhi-219863">Sharad Pawar</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-sitaram-yechury-meets-rahul-naidu-discusses-post-poll-scenario-219899">Sitaram Yechury</a>, among other leaders.

He had on Saturday also held talks with several opposition leaders, including Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital and with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati in Lucknow.&nbsp;

Naidu met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Nationalist Congress Party chief Pawar for the second consecutive day on Sunday morning, followed by a meeting with Sonia Gandhi in the evening.

He also held a separate meeting with CPI(M) general secretary Yechury and discussed the possibility of all opposition parties getting together.

The TDP chief's efforts are being seen as part of the opposition strategy to bring all the non-NDA parties together and form an alliance to keep the BJP out of power.

Naidu's meeting with Sonia Gandhi assumes significance as the latter held an internal meeting with top Congress leaders Saturday evening to assess the party's process and strategy to stake claim for government formation incase of a hung verdict on May 23 when the results are announced.

The Telugu Desam Party president has held several rounds of discussion with various opposition leaders, including TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury.

Naidu's TDP was part of the NDA, but quit the alliance a few months ago.

The Congress and other opposition parties have exuded confidence of forming the next government.&nbsp;

Continuing his efforts to unite opposition parties against the BJP ahead of Lok Sabha results, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar and Sitaram Yechury, among other leaders.

Continuing his efforts to unite opposition parties against the BJP ahead of Lok Sabha results, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar and Sitaram Yechury, among other leaders. He had on Saturday also held talks with several opposition leaders, including Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital and with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati in Lucknow. Naidu met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Nationalist Congress Party chief Pawar for the second consecutive day on Sunday morning, followed by a meeting with Sonia Gandhi in the evening. He also held a separate meeting with CPI(M) general secretary Yechury and discussed the possibility of all opposition parties getting together. The TDP chief's efforts are being seen as part of the opposition strategy to bring all the non-NDA parties together and form an alliance to keep the BJP out of power. Naidu's meeting with Sonia Gandhi assumes significance as the latter held an internal meeting with top Congress leaders Saturday evening to assess the party's process and strategy to stake claim for government formation incase of a hung verdict on May 23 when the results are announced. The Telugu Desam Party president has held several rounds of discussion with various opposition leaders, including TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury. Naidu's TDP was part of the NDA, but quit the alliance a few months ago. The Congress and other opposition parties have exuded confidence of forming the next government.

Chandrababu Naidu holds second round of talks with Rahul, Sonia, Pawar and Yechury

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-to-meet-rahul-gandhi-akhilesh-and-mayawati-on-saturday-219506">TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu </a>Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared.

Before meeting the Congress chief, Naidu, who is spearheading an effort to cobble up an anti-BJP front, met CPI leaders Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja.&nbsp;

He is scheduled to meet NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and LJD leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital later in the day.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister is also scheduled to meet BSP chief Mayawati and SP president Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow in the evening.

In an hour-long meeting with Gandhi, sources said, Naidu discussed the impending need to bring together all parties which are against the BJP after the Lok Sabha election results are declared on May 23.

Sources said Naidu also told Gandhi to have a strategy ready in case the BJP falls short of numbers and still stakes claim to form the government.

Naidu is also in touch with Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee over the phone on this issue, the sources added.

On Friday, Naidu had said that not only the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) but any outfit which is against the saffron party are welcome to join a grand alliance after the election results are declared.

He had also met AAP convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as well as CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on the matter.

The seven-phase polling will end on Sunday and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared. Before meeting the Congress chief, Naidu, who is spearheading an effort to cobble up an anti-BJP front, met CPI leaders Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja. He is scheduled to meet NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and LJD leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital later in the day. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister is also scheduled to meet BSP chief Mayawati and SP president Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow in the evening. In an hour-long meeting with Gandhi, sources said, Naidu discussed the impending need to bring together all parties which are against the BJP after the Lok Sabha election results are declared on May 23. Sources said Naidu also told Gandhi to have a strategy ready in case the BJP falls short of numbers and still stakes claim to form the government. Naidu is also in touch with Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee over the phone on this issue, the sources added. On Friday, Naidu had said that not only the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) but any outfit which is against the saffron party are welcome to join a grand alliance after the election results are declared. He had also met AAP convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as well as CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on the matter. The seven-phase polling will end on Sunday and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu meets Rahul Gandhi, discusses firming up anti-BJP front

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday&nbsp;in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is also likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI secretary general Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, and Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) leader Sharad Yadav.

On Friday, Naidu met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora regarding re-elections at five polling stations that fall under Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19.

Accusing the Election Commission of being a "biased body" that takes "pro-government decisions," Naidu, while speaking to reporters here, had said, "It is unfortunate that we are fighting against the EC. In Andhra Pradesh, they ordered re-polling in five polling stations."

"I do not want re-polling. I want the EC to be transparent. The way the EC is working, I am questioning that as a senior politician of the country. I have never seen such an attitude of the EC in the last 25 years of my political career," he said.

Naidu had also written a letter to the poll body, saying, "The EC has already conducted re-polling in five other polling stations in three districts of Andhra Pradesh on May 6, based on certain complaints. If there were any issues in the polling stations in Chandragiri assembly constituency, why didn't the Commission enquire into the same and conduct the re-polling on May 6?"

He even criticised the EC for taking cognisance of the complaints filed by the YSRCP and ordering re-polling. "We have seen polling being conducted in different phases, but have never come across re-polling also being held in phases," he said.

Hours after his meeting with Arora, Naidu visited Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at the latter's residence. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also present in the meeting.

The TDP chief also met CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury.

The Seven-phased Lok Sabha elections, which began on April 11, will conclude on May 19.

The 25 Lok Sabha and 175 assembly seats at stake in Andhra Pradesh went for polls simultaneously on April 11. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati.

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is also likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI secretary general Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, and Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) leader Sharad Yadav. On Friday, Naidu met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora regarding re-elections at five polling stations that fall under Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19. Accusing the Election Commission of being a "biased body" that takes "pro-government decisions," Naidu, while speaking to reporters here, had said, "It is unfortunate that we are fighting against the EC. In Andhra Pradesh, they ordered re-polling in five polling stations." "I do not want re-polling. I want the EC to be transparent. The way the EC is working, I am questioning that as a senior politician of the country. I have never seen such an attitude of the EC in the last 25 years of my political career," he said. Naidu had also written a letter to the poll body, saying, "The EC has already conducted re-polling in five other polling stations in three districts of Andhra Pradesh on May 6, based on certain complaints. If there were any issues in the polling stations in Chandragiri assembly constituency, why didn't the Commission enquire into the same and conduct the re-polling on May 6?" He even criticised the EC for taking cognisance of the complaints filed by the YSRCP and ordering re-polling. "We have seen polling being conducted in different phases, but have never come across re-polling also being held in phases," he said. Hours after his meeting with Arora, Naidu visited Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at the latter's residence. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also present in the meeting. The TDP chief also met CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury. The Seven-phased Lok Sabha elections, which began on April 11, will conclude on May 19. The 25 Lok Sabha and 175 assembly seats at stake in Andhra Pradesh went for polls simultaneously on April 11. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Chandrababu Naidu to meet Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh and Mayawati on Saturday

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday criticised the Election Commission's order to hold re-polling in five booths in the Chandragiri Assembly constituency as unethical and unconstitutional.

Thirty-four days after voting was held in the constituency, the EC ordered repoll based on a report by the Andhra Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer, and without waiting for the recommendations of a panel set up for this purpose, Naidu alleged.

On the contrary, the poll panel on May 15 relieved West Bengal Home Secretary Atri Bhattacharya for having interfered in the elections process by directing the state's CEO, he said.

In a representation to the EC about the repolling ordered in his state, the incumbent Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister said, "...It is an injustice. (It is) unfortunate, unethical and unconstitutional."&nbsp;

Naidu demanded the EC play a "neutral role" to facilitate free and fair election without being "partisan at the instance of any particular party".

"Hence, the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissions are requested to take steps to restore the confidence of the people in the EC and to create a level playing field between the BJP-allies and other parties in the country," he added.

Chandragiri, located in Chittoor district, is one of the 175 assembly constituencies in the state. There are total of 25 parliamentary constituencies.

Both assembly and Lok Sabha elections were held together in Andhra Pradesh on April 11. The votes will be counted on May 23.

The Election Commission Wednesday ordered repoll on May 19 in five polling stations in the Chandragiri Assembly segment, under Chittoor LS constituency.

Repoll would be held at polling stations 321, 104, 316, 318 and 313 of both Assembly and Lok Sabha segments, the state CEO said in a release Wednesday.

YSR Congress MLA and contesting candidate Ch Bhaskar Reddy lodged a complaint with the Election Commission early this month that voters belonging to a particular community were not allowed to exercise their franchise when polling was conducted on April 11.

The CEO reportedly received some other complaints about the polling in the constituency from other sources as well.&nbsp;

In West Bengal, the EC had on may 15 ordered the removal of West Bengal Principal Secretary (Home) Atri Bhattacharya and Additional Director General, CID, Rajeev Kumar, from their posts in the wake of violence between BJP and TMC workers in Kolkata.

Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, who is in charge of West Bengal, had said the action was taken against Bhattacharya "for having interfered in the process of conducting elections" by directing the state chief electoral officer, which he was not supposed to do.&nbsp;

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday criticised the Election Commission's order to hold re-polling in five booths in the Chandragiri Assembly constituency as unethical and unconstitutional.

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday criticised the Election Commission's order to hold re-polling in five booths in the Chandragiri Assembly constituency as unethical and unconstitutional. Thirty-four days after voting was held in the constituency, the EC ordered repoll based on a report by the Andhra Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer, and without waiting for the recommendations of a panel set up for this purpose, Naidu alleged. On the contrary, the poll panel on May 15 relieved West Bengal Home Secretary Atri Bhattacharya for having interfered in the elections process by directing the state's CEO, he said. In a representation to the EC about the repolling ordered in his state, the incumbent Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister said, "...It is an injustice. (It is) unfortunate, unethical and unconstitutional." Naidu demanded the EC play a "neutral role" to facilitate free and fair election without being "partisan at the instance of any particular party". "Hence, the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissions are requested to take steps to restore the confidence of the people in the EC and to create a level playing field between the BJP-allies and other parties in the country," he added. Chandragiri, located in Chittoor district, is one of the 175 assembly constituencies in the state. There are total of 25 parliamentary constituencies. Both assembly and Lok Sabha elections were held together in Andhra Pradesh on April 11. The votes will be counted on May 23. The Election Commission Wednesday ordered repoll on May 19 in five polling stations in the Chandragiri Assembly segment, under Chittoor LS constituency. Repoll would be held at polling stations 321, 104, 316, 318 and 313 of both Assembly and Lok Sabha segments, the state CEO said in a release Wednesday. YSR Congress MLA and contesting candidate Ch Bhaskar Reddy lodged a complaint with the Election Commission early this month that voters belonging to a particular community were not allowed to exercise their franchise when polling was conducted on April 11. The CEO reportedly received some other complaints about the polling in the constituency from other sources as well. In West Bengal, the EC had on may 15 ordered the removal of West Bengal Principal Secretary (Home) Atri Bhattacharya and Additional Director General, CID, Rajeev Kumar, from their posts in the wake of violence between BJP and TMC workers in Kolkata. Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, who is in charge of West Bengal, had said the action was taken against Bhattacharya "for having interfered in the process of conducting elections" by directing the state chief electoral officer, which he was not supposed to do.

Repolling in Chandragiri: Naidu says Election Commission decision 'unethical, unconstitutional'

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday.&nbsp;

Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.&nbsp;

At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament."

Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas.

Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining. At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament." Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas. Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.

Under the leadership of Mamata India will change, says Chandrababu Naidu 

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Wednesday requested the Election Commission of India to relax the Model Code of Conduct in four coastal districts to enable the state take steps in view of the cyclone threat.

The Chief Minister wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora in this regard, saying the super cyclone FANI was likely to hit the coast between north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

Four districts of coastal AP East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam have to be kept on high alert.

"To facilitate free flow of information, mobilisation of human and material resources and taking other preventive steps, there is a need to relax the model code of conduct that is in force in the state.

Since the Assembly elections have been completed in the state, it is requested that the model code of conduct may be relaxed in the above mentioned four districts,so that official machinery and the ministers concerned could work effectively to keep the effects of cyclone FANI to the minimum and provide the solace and succour to the people of the affected areas," the Chief Minister said.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Wednesday requested the Election Commission of India to relax the Model Code of Conduct in four coastal districts to enable the state take steps in view of the cyclone threat.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Wednesday requested the Election Commission of India to relax the Model Code of Conduct in four coastal districts to enable the state take steps in view of the cyclone threat. The Chief Minister wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora in this regard, saying the super cyclone FANI was likely to hit the coast between north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Four districts of coastal AP East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam have to be kept on high alert. "To facilitate free flow of information, mobilisation of human and material resources and taking other preventive steps, there is a need to relax the model code of conduct that is in force in the state. Since the Assembly elections have been completed in the state, it is requested that the model code of conduct may be relaxed in the above mentioned four districts,so that official machinery and the ministers concerned could work effectively to keep the effects of cyclone FANI to the minimum and provide the solace and succour to the people of the affected areas," the Chief Minister said.

Cyclone Fani: Naidu requests Election Commission to relax Model Code of Conduct in 4 coastal districts

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-ysrs-jagan-slams-chandrababu-naidu-for-ignoring-needs-of-poor-and-middle-class-209107">N Chandrababu Naidu</a>&nbsp;on Saturday demanded the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-should-work-in-unbiased-manner-andhra-cm-chandrababu-naidu-on-transfer-of-state-chief-secretary-208289">Election Commission of India (ECI)</a> revert to the ballot system. The move comes&nbsp;just a couple of days after the general polls&nbsp;were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy."

The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

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Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. <a href="https://t.co/HD2JxWckPC">pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC</a>
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"We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner.&nbsp;

"I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said.

Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department.

"To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said.

Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI".&nbsp;

"We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified."

On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system. The move comes just a couple of days after the general polls were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh. Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy." The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × "We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner. "I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said. Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department. "To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said. Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI". "We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified." On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.

Just a couple of days after polls, Chandrababu Naidu raises questions over EVMs; asks Election Commission to revert to ballot system

I am cynical/practical/experienced enough to know that pre-election opinion polls can go quite wrong for at least three reasons. Voters may not truly reveal their minds and/or change their minds close to polling day.&nbsp;

The sampling methodology may go wrong or converting vote shares based on sample surveys into seats can get tricky. Last but not the least, media organisations carrying out opinion poll results in league with pollster organisations can add a bit of spice to suit their own priorities.

After discounting for all this, I do believe that in the general elections that are now underway, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reached a point where it will certainly not get a majority of its own like it did in 2014, and may also not be entirely home even with its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners.

One TV news channel that is visibly, loudly and consistently supportive of the BJP sees the NDA tally at 279, just four ahead of the half-way mark. An average of all opinion polls this week gives the NDA 277 seats in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

There are as many as 167 "marginal" seats where close contests will decide winners in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

It is time to ask some what-if questions. My guess is that in a scenario where the NDA is short of a clear majority, three leaders from the south will become important: Naveen Patnaik of the Biju Janata Dal from Odisha, Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy from the YSR Congress in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

(If the Tropic of Cancer is seen as the dividing line between northern and southern India, Odisha, which is to the southeast, certainly falls in the south. It is also definitely south of the Vindhya mountain range, the traditional threshold to separate the south from the north.)

KCR, as the Telangana Chief Minister is called, is officially part of the 'Mahagatbandhan' (grand alliance) against Modi and will be needed by the BJP only if there is a significant late swing against it. With Telangana still in its honeymoon phase after he led a decades-old movement to carve the state out of the undivided Andhra Pradesh, he is perhaps the strongest ruling CM in India today, not counting Pawan Chamling of Sikkim. KCR's pro-farmer programmes are considered a role model for the rest of India.

Patnaik has been maintaining a studied equidistance from the BJP and the Congress and has had a phenomenal run in his state, having won four terms in a row to be the Odisha Chief Minister since the year 2000. His development efforts are part of the national folklore.

Jagan Reddy, only 46 years old, is yet to taste power but is seen as the front-runner in an anti-incumbency mood against Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP). He announced last week he had no ill-will against the Congress, from which his party broke off, even as he maintains that he favours anyone who grants special status to Andhra under an arrangement made when Telangana was carved out.

Jagan is perhaps the easiest for the BJP to woo since Naidu is already on the side of the anti-Modi alliance. KCR can be wooed in a desperate scenario. But Patnaik may be a harder nut to crack. It all depends on the exact break-up of the Lok Sabha that gets formed in the summer heat. Watch out in the coming days nice things to be said about these three gentlemen. They may be kingmakers, and they may even edge close to each other where the eventual verdict swings away from the current predictions.

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/after-2019-lok-sabha-elections-the-kingmakers-are-likely-to-be-from-the-south-2194704.html">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

I am cynical/practical/experienced enough to know that pre-election opinion polls can go quite wrong for at least three reasons. Voters may not truly reveal their minds and/or change their minds close to polling day.

I am cynical/practical/experienced enough to know that pre-election opinion polls can go quite wrong for at least three reasons. Voters may not truly reveal their minds and/or change their minds close to polling day. The sampling methodology may go wrong or converting vote shares based on sample surveys into seats can get tricky. Last but not the least, media organisations carrying out opinion poll results in league with pollster organisations can add a bit of spice to suit their own priorities. After discounting for all this, I do believe that in the general elections that are now underway, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reached a point where it will certainly not get a majority of its own like it did in 2014, and may also not be entirely home even with its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners. One TV news channel that is visibly, loudly and consistently supportive of the BJP sees the NDA tally at 279, just four ahead of the half-way mark. An average of all opinion polls this week gives the NDA 277 seats in the Lok Sabha. There are as many as 167 "marginal" seats where close contests will decide winners in the 543-member Lok Sabha. It is time to ask some what-if questions. My guess is that in a scenario where the NDA is short of a clear majority, three leaders from the south will become important: Naveen Patnaik of the Biju Janata Dal from Odisha, Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy from the YSR Congress in Andhra Pradesh. (If the Tropic of Cancer is seen as the dividing line between northern and southern India, Odisha, which is to the southeast, certainly falls in the south. It is also definitely south of the Vindhya mountain range, the traditional threshold to separate the south from the north.) KCR, as the Telangana Chief Minister is called, is officially part of the 'Mahagatbandhan' (grand alliance) against Modi and will be needed by the BJP only if there is a significant late swing against it. With Telangana still in its honeymoon phase after he led a decades-old movement to carve the state out of the undivided Andhra Pradesh, he is perhaps the strongest ruling CM in India today, not counting Pawan Chamling of Sikkim. KCR's pro-farmer programmes are considered a role model for the rest of India. Patnaik has been maintaining a studied equidistance from the BJP and the Congress and has had a phenomenal run in his state, having won four terms in a row to be the Odisha Chief Minister since the year 2000. His development efforts are part of the national folklore. Jagan Reddy, only 46 years old, is yet to taste power but is seen as the front-runner in an anti-incumbency mood against Andhra CM N Chandrababu Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP). He announced last week he had no ill-will against the Congress, from which his party broke off, even as he maintains that he favours anyone who grants special status to Andhra under an arrangement made when Telangana was carved out. Jagan is perhaps the easiest for the BJP to woo since Naidu is already on the side of the anti-Modi alliance. KCR can be wooed in a desperate scenario. But Patnaik may be a harder nut to crack. It all depends on the exact break-up of the Lok Sabha that gets formed in the summer heat. Watch out in the coming days nice things to be said about these three gentlemen. They may be kingmakers, and they may even edge close to each other where the eventual verdict swings away from the current predictions. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

After 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the kingmakers are likely to be from the south

Telugu Desam Party(TDP) on Thursday accused YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-tdp-worker-killed-as-clashes-mark-polling-in-andhra-pradesh-209528">indulging in violence </a>and damaging electronic voting machines (EVMs).

In a letter to Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) RP Thakur, TDP president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the polling agents of YSRCP were resorting to violence and obstructing the polling process.

“There is a lot of violence in Kadapa, Anantapuram, and Kurnool and Nellore districts...In certain cases, they have even damaged the polling materials like EVMs and threatening polling personnel to allow them to rig votes.”

“Controlling law and order situation and ensuring peaceful conduct of poll is of immediate necessity...I request you to instruct all the Superintendents of Police and other law enforcing agencies to strictly control the law and order and arrest the culprits and take stringent action against the persons responsible,” Naidu writes in the letter.

Earlier in the day, the TDP and the YSRCP workers clashed at Ramanakkapeta village in Nuzividu assembly constituency. The police immediately intervened to restore normalcy.

The polling is underway for 25 Lok Sabha and 175 Assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Telugu Desam Party(TDP) on Thursday accused YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders of indulging in violence and damaging electronic voting machines (EVMs). In a letter to Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) RP Thakur, TDP president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the polling agents of YSRCP were resorting to violence and obstructing the polling process.

Telugu Desam Party(TDP) on Thursday accused YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders of indulging in violence and damaging electronic voting machines (EVMs). In a letter to Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) RP Thakur, TDP president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the polling agents of YSRCP were resorting to violence and obstructing the polling process. “There is a lot of violence in Kadapa, Anantapuram, and Kurnool and Nellore districts...In certain cases, they have even damaged the polling materials like EVMs and threatening polling personnel to allow them to rig votes.” “Controlling law and order situation and ensuring peaceful conduct of poll is of immediate necessity...I request you to instruct all the Superintendents of Police and other law enforcing agencies to strictly control the law and order and arrest the culprits and take stringent action against the persons responsible,” Naidu writes in the letter. Earlier in the day, the TDP and the YSRCP workers clashed at Ramanakkapeta village in Nuzividu assembly constituency. The police immediately intervened to restore normalcy. The polling is underway for 25 Lok Sabha and 175 Assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh.

TDP accuses YSRCP leaders of violence, writes to DGP

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years.

Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate.

Addressing a well-attended election rally in the temple city on the last day of campaigning for the April 11 first phase of elections, he claimed unemployment was on the rise in the state after Naidu came to power in 2014 with 2.3 lakh vacant posts not being filled.

Referring to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao's support for Special Category Status for Andhra Pradesh, Reddy said it would be easy to achieve SCS with combined efforts of 25 MPs from AP and 17 MPs from neighbouring Telangana.

"The TDP government has failed to meet all-round development of the state and welfare of the people," Reddy said, urging people to vote for his YSRCP for good governance.

Reddy also faulted some sections of the media in the state for their alleged demonstration of fake videos, photos, audio clips and pre-poll surveys to deliberately malign the image of YSRCP.

Andhra Pradesh, which is going to the polls for 175 assemblies and 25 Lok Sabha seats, is witnessing a multi-cornered contest involving the ruling TDP, YSRCP, Jana Sena of Pawan Kalyan, the Congress and the BJP.

In Tirupati, the main battle would be between two former Chairmen Bhumana Karunakara Reddy of YSRCP and Chadalavada Krishnamurthy of Jana Sena Party and ruling TDP MLA M. Suguna.

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years. Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate.

YSR Congress Party chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Tuesday slammed the ruling Telugu Desam Party for ignoring the poor and middle class in the last five years. Reddy alleged subsidy facilities, including education and 'Arogyasri' introduced for the poor and middle classes by the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister, the late YS Rajasekhara Reddy, were completely abandoned by the Chandrababu Naidu government leaving the people to their own fate. Addressing a well-attended election rally in the temple city on the last day of campaigning for the April 11 first phase of elections, he claimed unemployment was on the rise in the state after Naidu came to power in 2014 with 2.3 lakh vacant posts not being filled. Referring to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao's support for Special Category Status for Andhra Pradesh, Reddy said it would be easy to achieve SCS with combined efforts of 25 MPs from AP and 17 MPs from neighbouring Telangana. "The TDP government has failed to meet all-round development of the state and welfare of the people," Reddy said, urging people to vote for his YSRCP for good governance. Reddy also faulted some sections of the media in the state for their alleged demonstration of fake videos, photos, audio clips and pre-poll surveys to deliberately malign the image of YSRCP. Andhra Pradesh, which is going to the polls for 175 assemblies and 25 Lok Sabha seats, is witnessing a multi-cornered contest involving the ruling TDP, YSRCP, Jana Sena of Pawan Kalyan, the Congress and the BJP. In Tirupati, the main battle would be between two former Chairmen Bhumana Karunakara Reddy of YSRCP and Chadalavada Krishnamurthy of Jana Sena Party and ruling TDP MLA M. Suguna.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: YSR's Jagan slams Chandrababu Naidu for ignoring needs of poor and middle class

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner."

Punetha was on Friday shifted to a non-election post, while LV Subramanyam, a 1983-batch IAS officer, was appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh.

"For what mistake did EC transfer the Chief Secretary? How can you transfer without telling the mistake he did? Election Commission should work in an unbiased manner," Naidu said.

"I am condemning the transfer of Chief Secretary. I am condemning Centre's conspiracies against Andhra. I will see if they will arrest me tomorrow or day after," he added.

While speaking at a roadshow in Visakhapatnam, Naidu demanded an explanation from the poll body on Punetha's transfer.

He said, "Election commission should be impartial. When the election code came into force, our collector was changed. Two SPs and intelligence are also appointed similarly. Today they changed our Chief Secretary. What does that mean?"

Meanwhile, Naidu, while addressing a rally in Aluru in Kurnool district, assured Muslims that he will give the Deputy Chief Minister post to Muslims if he is voted to power again in Andhra Pradesh.

He even promised to set up an Islamic bank for minorities.

"Vote for Jaganmohan Reddy means vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If Modi comes to power again, minorities will have to face many troubles. If Modi wins again, he will see Muslims in the country will have no votes at all. Jagan became a slave to KCR (Telangana Chief Minister K&nbsp;Chandrashekar Rao) and Modi," Naidu said.

Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11 for Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies in the state. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner.

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner." Punetha was on Friday shifted to a non-election post, while LV Subramanyam, a 1983-batch IAS officer, was appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh. "For what mistake did EC transfer the Chief Secretary? How can you transfer without telling the mistake he did? Election Commission should work in an unbiased manner," Naidu said. "I am condemning the transfer of Chief Secretary. I am condemning Centre's conspiracies against Andhra. I will see if they will arrest me tomorrow or day after," he added. While speaking at a roadshow in Visakhapatnam, Naidu demanded an explanation from the poll body on Punetha's transfer. He said, "Election commission should be impartial. When the election code came into force, our collector was changed. Two SPs and intelligence are also appointed similarly. Today they changed our Chief Secretary. What does that mean?" Meanwhile, Naidu, while addressing a rally in Aluru in Kurnool district, assured Muslims that he will give the Deputy Chief Minister post to Muslims if he is voted to power again in Andhra Pradesh. He even promised to set up an Islamic bank for minorities. "Vote for Jaganmohan Reddy means vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If Modi comes to power again, minorities will have to face many troubles. If Modi wins again, he will see Muslims in the country will have no votes at all. Jagan became a slave to KCR (Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao) and Modi," Naidu said. Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11 for Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies in the state. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission should work in unbiased manner: Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu on transfer of state chief secretary

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday claimed that despite 31 cases pending against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/voting-for-ysrcp-is-like-writing-ones-own-death-warrant-n-chandrababu-naidu-204992">YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy</a>, the latter "acts innocent."

Addressing a rally in Guntur in Repalle, Naidu said, "Jagan has filed a 48-page affidavit. 20 pages of it are about his criminal record. Another 20 pages are about his economic offences. Jagan is the only person with 31 cases. But he is acting as if he is innocent."

He further claimed that YSRCP leaders "tried to delete votes through Form 7 applications."

"Their conspiracy is exposed," he added.

Naidu also accused Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao of weakening the Opposition in Telangana by buying MLAs.

Andhra Pradesh, which has 25 Lok Sabha seats at stake, will vote in a single phase on April 11. Results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday claimed that despite 31 cases pending against YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the latter "acts innocent.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday claimed that despite 31 cases pending against YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the latter "acts innocent." Addressing a rally in Guntur in Repalle, Naidu said, "Jagan has filed a 48-page affidavit. 20 pages of it are about his criminal record. Another 20 pages are about his economic offences. Jagan is the only person with 31 cases. But he is acting as if he is innocent." He further claimed that YSRCP leaders "tried to delete votes through Form 7 applications." "Their conspiracy is exposed," he added. Naidu also accused Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao of weakening the Opposition in Telangana by buying MLAs. Andhra Pradesh, which has 25 Lok Sabha seats at stake, will vote in a single phase on April 11. Results will be declared on May 23.

Lok Sabha 2019: Chandrababu Naidu accuses Jagan Reddy of 'acting innocent'

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday urged people to not vote for the YSR Congress Party in the impending elections, stating that backing them would be like "writing your own death warrant."

Addressing an election campaign in Vishakhapatnam Narsipatnam, Naidu said, “Voting for TDP will be the victory of people, but voting for YSRCP is like writing your own death warrant. These (Lok Sabha) elections decide the future of the state. People should vote for TDP for better future and better development of the state.”

Naidu further accused YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy of “looting” lakh and crores of money by misusing his father, YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s power when the latter was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.

“Jagan's paternal uncle was killed in his own house, but they tried to make people believe that it was due to a heart attack. They tampered evidence, altered scene of offence,” Naidu said.

“I am like an elder son in every family. I gave financial support to 98 lakh DWCRA sisters under Pasupu Kumkuma scheme. I provided welfare pensions of Rs 2000 to senior citizens. We will bring water from the Godavari river to Visakhapatnam. Uttara Andhra Sujala Sravanti project will be finished in a year,” he added.

Naidu further claimed that Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao is “creating hurdles in the development of Andhra Pradesh.”

“Jagan bowed down in front of him (KCR)... Prime Minister Narendra Modi is shielding Jagan. We won't surrender in front of Modi,” Naidu said.

“NDA government betrayed Andhra Pradesh by not fulfilling bifurcation promises. It has even taken back the funds meant for backward districts development. Not even one of the 18 assurances of bifurcation act is fulfilled. While we are fighting for that, the Centre is filing cases against us,” he added.

The Lok Sabha election will be held in Andhra Pradesh on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday urged people to not vote for the YSR Congress Party in the impending elections, stating that backing them would be like "writing your own death warrant.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday urged people to not vote for the YSR Congress Party in the impending elections, stating that backing them would be like "writing your own death warrant." Addressing an election campaign in Vishakhapatnam Narsipatnam, Naidu said, “Voting for TDP will be the victory of people, but voting for YSRCP is like writing your own death warrant. These (Lok Sabha) elections decide the future of the state. People should vote for TDP for better future and better development of the state.” Naidu further accused YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy of “looting” lakh and crores of money by misusing his father, YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s power when the latter was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. “Jagan's paternal uncle was killed in his own house, but they tried to make people believe that it was due to a heart attack. They tampered evidence, altered scene of offence,” Naidu said. “I am like an elder son in every family. I gave financial support to 98 lakh DWCRA sisters under Pasupu Kumkuma scheme. I provided welfare pensions of Rs 2000 to senior citizens. We will bring water from the Godavari river to Visakhapatnam. Uttara Andhra Sujala Sravanti project will be finished in a year,” he added. Naidu further claimed that Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao is “creating hurdles in the development of Andhra Pradesh.” “Jagan bowed down in front of him (KCR)... Prime Minister Narendra Modi is shielding Jagan. We won't surrender in front of Modi,” Naidu said. “NDA government betrayed Andhra Pradesh by not fulfilling bifurcation promises. It has even taken back the funds meant for backward districts development. Not even one of the 18 assurances of bifurcation act is fulfilled. While we are fighting for that, the Centre is filing cases against us,” he added. The Lok Sabha election will be held in Andhra Pradesh on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.

Voting for YSRCP is like writing one's own death warrant: N Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh IT minister and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s son Nara Lokesh on Friday filed nomination to contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Lokesh, who is the general secretary of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), will be contesting for the first time. He filed nomination papers at the Mangalagiri Mandal Revenue Officer (MRO) in the presence of his mother Bhuvaneswari, wife Brahmani and son Devansh.

After filing the nomination, Lokesh cast his vote in the Member of Legislative Council (MLC) elections at a polling booth in Polakampadu Mandal Parishat elementary school.

Andhra Pradesh, which has 25 Lok Sabha seats and 175 Assembly seats at stake, will go for simultaneous polling on April 11.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh IT minister and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s son Nara Lokesh on Friday filed nomination to contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Andhra Pradesh IT minister and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s son Nara Lokesh on Friday filed nomination to contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Lokesh, who is the general secretary of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), will be contesting for the first time. He filed nomination papers at the Mangalagiri Mandal Revenue Officer (MRO) in the presence of his mother Bhuvaneswari, wife Brahmani and son Devansh. After filing the nomination, Lokesh cast his vote in the Member of Legislative Council (MLC) elections at a polling booth in Polakampadu Mandal Parishat elementary school. Andhra Pradesh, which has 25 Lok Sabha seats and 175 Assembly seats at stake, will go for simultaneous polling on April 11.

Lok Sabha 2019: Chandrababu Naidu's son Nara Lokesh files nomination from Andhra Pradesh

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year.

With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly.

The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday.

Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time.

Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur.

Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday.

"I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons.

Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said.

Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets.

Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota).

The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that&nbsp;Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats&nbsp;in&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase.

The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency. At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year. With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly. The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday. Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time. Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur. Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday. "I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons. Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said. Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets. Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota). The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase. The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.

TDP announces 126 candidates for Assembly polls; Naidu, son Nara Lokesh to contest

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night.&nbsp;

Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance <a href="https://t.co/da9lCV5hIE">pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095724544361345025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said.&nbsp;

"We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. &nbsp;

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Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP <a href="https://t.co/XIuWB52LUg">pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095722817067216896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata had already provided an inkling about&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-fight-the-lok-sabha-elections-together-mamata-banerjee-197206">an opposition alliance</a> Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

"We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together.&nbsp;

Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal.&nbsp;

"We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said the opposition will form a pre-poll alliance before the Lok Sabha elections. "We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance," Mamata said Wednesday night. Mamata made her statement after meeting with the NCP's Sharad Pawar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naid, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah, Delhi Chief Minsister Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal: We'll work together at the national level. We'll have a common minimum agenda. We'll have a pre-poll alliance pic.twitter.com/da9lCV5hIE — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × "We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that the principal target for all of us is to fight against the assault on institutes," Congress President Rahul Gandhi said. "We agreed to start a conversation about a common minimum programme and we have a comittment that we're all going to work together," Rahul added. Congress Pres Rahul Gandhi after a meeting with Sharad Pawar, Chandrababu Naidu, Farooq Abdullah, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal: We had a very constructive meeting. We agreed that principal target for all of us is to fight against assault on institutes being carried out by BJP pic.twitter.com/XIuWB52LUg — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Mamata had already provided an inkling about an opposition alliance Wednesday evening at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata had said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She added then that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together. Mamata had been joined at Jantar Mantar by Naidu and Kejriwal. "We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu had said on Wednesday evening.

Lok Sabha elections: Opposition will form pre-poll alliance, says Mamata Banerjee

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-opposition-wins-rahul-gandhi-open-to-mayawati-mamata-as-pm-in-2019-reports-154267">the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together</a>.&nbsp;

"We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

She added that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together.&nbsp;

"Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/ party," she added.&nbsp;

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Mamata Banerjee: Aane waale din ekhatte hoke humlog ladenge. Hamare saath Congress, CPM ka jo bhi fight rahega state mein rahega. National level mein hum ek saath ladenge. Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/party <a href="https://t.co/Bi3RWcOnXx">pic.twitter.com/Bi3RWcOnXx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095661685753270273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata has of course just emerged from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-sits-on-dharna-after-cbi-kolkata-police-face-off-194890">a massive clash against the Centre</a> after the CBI showed up unannounced at the Kolkata Police chief's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams in Bengal.&nbsp;

Mamata had said the CBI's turning up unannounced at Rajeev Kumar's home was a "destruction of the federal structure", and had a few hours later announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna.&nbsp;

She called off her dharna after a closed-door meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (A number of opposition leaders had called Mamata after her run-in with the Centre, offering their support.)&nbsp;

"We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu said on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;

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Andhra Pradesh CM &amp; TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi: We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election. <a href="https://t.co/55hfgefv5p">pic.twitter.com/55hfgefv5p</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095661894524911616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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ANI meanwhile reported that Mamata, Naidu, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Jammu&nbsp;and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah would meet later on Wednesday at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's home.&nbsp;

A notable absentee from Wednesday's meeting will of course be Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that the opposition will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha elections together. "We will fight together in the coming days," Mamata said at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. She added that her fight against the Congress and the CPM would remain confined to the state — but that at the national level they would fight together. "Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/ party," she added. Mamata Banerjee: Aane waale din ekhatte hoke humlog ladenge. Hamare saath Congress, CPM ka jo bhi fight rahega state mein rahega. National level mein hum ek saath ladenge. Let them fight against me, I don't mind. For interest of the nation, I'm ready to sacrifice my life/party pic.twitter.com/Bi3RWcOnXx — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Mamata has of course just emerged from a massive clash against the Centre after the CBI showed up unannounced at the Kolkata Police chief's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund scams in Bengal. Mamata had said the CBI's turning up unannounced at Rajeev Kumar's home was a "destruction of the federal structure", and had a few hours later announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna. She called off her dharna after a closed-door meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (A number of opposition leaders had called Mamata after her run-in with the Centre, offering their support.) "We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election," Naidu said on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar. Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Delhi: We are in danger, we have to protect this nation, democracy is under threat. If all of us are not united, this is the last election for all of us, tomorrow there won't be any election. pic.twitter.com/55hfgefv5p — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × ANI meanwhile reported that Mamata, Naidu, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah would meet later on Wednesday at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's home. A notable absentee from Wednesday's meeting will of course be Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

Opposition will fight the Lok Sabha elections together: Mamata Banerjee

Bringing his battle for special status for his state to the national capital, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Monday went on a daylong fast that became a rallying point for opposition unity for the second time in less than a month to fight the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut also made a surprise appearance at Naidu's 'Dharma Porata Deeksha' (day-long protest for justice) that began at 8 am. Raut said he came to attend the event as a representative of the Shiv Sena, amid strains with senior ally BJP.

Naidu ended his fast at 8.20 pm, accepting a glass of juice from JD(S) supremo and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar and TMC leader Derek O' Brien were among other opposition leaders who visited Andhra Bhavan to express their solidarity with Naidu, the supremo of Telugu Desam(TDP).

The leaders in their brief speeches mounted a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a range of issues, notably the Rafale deal, with Kejriwal going to the extent of accusing him of behaving like "PM of Pakistan" and not of India in the way he treats state governments led by opposition parties.

Reacting to Kejriwal's barb, BJP's national secretary and co-in-charge for Andhra Pradesh Sunil Deodhar said the leaders of the 'grand-alliance' are competing with each other on who can be more abusive towards Modi.

Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties, has over the last three months, held a number of meetings with opposition party leaders on forming an anti-BJP front. The TDP pulled out of the NDA government in March last year over its refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh.

Demanding that the Centre fulfil promises made during Andhra Pradesh's bifurcation in 2014, the TDP president alleged that Modi was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status.

"(Former PM) Atal Bihari Vajpayee said 'raj dharma' was not followed in Gujarat (during the 2002 post-Godhra riots). Now, 'raj dharma' is not being followed in the case of Andhra Pradesh. We have been denied what is rightfully ours," Naidu said.

He alleged that the central government did grave injustice to Andhra and it would have "repercussions on national unity".

"On behalf of five crore people, I'm warning this government... I came here to remind you of the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act."

On January 19, 22 opposition parties came together at a rally convened by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee.

Naidu's fast also came ahead of the mega rally of non-BJP leaders under the aegis of Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) against the Modi government on February 13 in the national capital.

Against the backdrop of Naidu's dharna, BJP president Amit Shah wrote an open letter to people of Andhra Pradesh, saying the TDP chief knows that his political fortunes are declining rapidly and is back to theatrics in his desperation for grabbing headlines.

Shah accused Naidu of breaking the trust of the people and said he is going too far by "personally" attacking the prime minister.

Naidu's "delusional politics" is about to end, he said.

The TDP leader Sunday dragged Modi's wife while attacking the prime minister. Naidu claimed he had done so as Modi had referred to his son in targeting him at a rally.

Those who met Naidu also included National Conference chairperson Farooq Abdullah, NCP's Majeed Memon, DMK's Tiruchi Siva and Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav. No Left leader was present at the protest venue.

"The prime minister has stolen from the people from Andhra Pradesh and he has given that money to Anil Ambani. That is the fact of the matter," Gandhi alleged in an apparent reference to the controversial Rafale fighter jet deal with France.

The government and Ambani have rejected Gandhi's allegations of corruption in the deal.

"Mr Narendra Modi, wherever he goes, he goes to Andhra Pradesh, he lies about special status. He goes to the North-East, he tells another lie over there. He goes to Maharashtra and he tells another lie over there. He has got absolutely no credibility left," Gandhi alleged.

In just a couple of months, opposition parties will show Modi exactly what the sentiment in the country is, he said.

"I want to let you know that we are all standing together. We are going to defeat the BJP...," he added.

O'Brien recalled Modi's speech in Guntur in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday and said he didn't talk about development or special category status but "started a personal attack".

Modi, who was on his first visit to the state after the TDP walked out of the NDA government, came down heavily on Naidu, whom he repeatedly referred to as "father of N Lokesh."

Lashing out at the prime minister, Abdullah said, Modi has stooped so low. He's making personal attacks against Naidu, who is doing great service for the country.

Memon alleged that the Central government was meting out step-motherly treatment to Andhra and the BJP was attacking Naidu because he has taken the lead in uniting rival parties against it.

Mulayam Singh Yadav said he was not well but had come to endorse Naidu's stand.

"Naidu is fighting the battle for the poor, the farmers and all those who are oppressed," he added.

Stating that Naidu was fighting for a just cause, DMK leader Siva predicted that the Modi government would be ousted in three months.

Sharad Yadav blamed the Modi government for unemployment, joblessness which he said were a result of demonetization.

Kejriwal hit out at the prime minister over the alleged mistreatment meted out to states being run by governments of opposition parties.

The way PM Modi treats governments of opposition parties in states, he behaves like he is not the PM of India but PM of Pakistan, he said.

Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel and Jairam Ramesh were also at the venue to express their support.

Naidu paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and at Ambedkar Statue at the Andhra Bhavan before he began the hunger strike.

Bringing his battle for special status for his state to the national capital, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Monday went on a daylong fast that became a rallying point for opposition unity for the second time in less than a month to fight the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Bringing his battle for special status for his state to the national capital, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Monday went on a daylong fast that became a rallying point for opposition unity for the second time in less than a month to fight the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut also made a surprise appearance at Naidu's 'Dharma Porata Deeksha' (day-long protest for justice) that began at 8 am. Raut said he came to attend the event as a representative of the Shiv Sena, amid strains with senior ally BJP. Naidu ended his fast at 8.20 pm, accepting a glass of juice from JD(S) supremo and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar and TMC leader Derek O' Brien were among other opposition leaders who visited Andhra Bhavan to express their solidarity with Naidu, the supremo of Telugu Desam(TDP). The leaders in their brief speeches mounted a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a range of issues, notably the Rafale deal, with Kejriwal going to the extent of accusing him of behaving like "PM of Pakistan" and not of India in the way he treats state governments led by opposition parties. Reacting to Kejriwal's barb, BJP's national secretary and co-in-charge for Andhra Pradesh Sunil Deodhar said the leaders of the 'grand-alliance' are competing with each other on who can be more abusive towards Modi. Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties, has over the last three months, held a number of meetings with opposition party leaders on forming an anti-BJP front. The TDP pulled out of the NDA government in March last year over its refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh. Demanding that the Centre fulfil promises made during Andhra Pradesh's bifurcation in 2014, the TDP president alleged that Modi was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status. "(Former PM) Atal Bihari Vajpayee said 'raj dharma' was not followed in Gujarat (during the 2002 post-Godhra riots). Now, 'raj dharma' is not being followed in the case of Andhra Pradesh. We have been denied what is rightfully ours," Naidu said. He alleged that the central government did grave injustice to Andhra and it would have "repercussions on national unity". "On behalf of five crore people, I'm warning this government... I came here to remind you of the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act." On January 19, 22 opposition parties came together at a rally convened by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee. Naidu's fast also came ahead of the mega rally of non-BJP leaders under the aegis of Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) against the Modi government on February 13 in the national capital. Against the backdrop of Naidu's dharna, BJP president Amit Shah wrote an open letter to people of Andhra Pradesh, saying the TDP chief knows that his political fortunes are declining rapidly and is back to theatrics in his desperation for grabbing headlines. Shah accused Naidu of breaking the trust of the people and said he is going too far by "personally" attacking the prime minister. Naidu's "delusional politics" is about to end, he said. The TDP leader Sunday dragged Modi's wife while attacking the prime minister. Naidu claimed he had done so as Modi had referred to his son in targeting him at a rally. Those who met Naidu also included National Conference chairperson Farooq Abdullah, NCP's Majeed Memon, DMK's Tiruchi Siva and Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav. No Left leader was present at the protest venue. "The prime minister has stolen from the people from Andhra Pradesh and he has given that money to Anil Ambani. That is the fact of the matter," Gandhi alleged in an apparent reference to the controversial Rafale fighter jet deal with France. The government and Ambani have rejected Gandhi's allegations of corruption in the deal. "Mr Narendra Modi, wherever he goes, he goes to Andhra Pradesh, he lies about special status. He goes to the North-East, he tells another lie over there. He goes to Maharashtra and he tells another lie over there. He has got absolutely no credibility left," Gandhi alleged. In just a couple of months, opposition parties will show Modi exactly what the sentiment in the country is, he said. "I want to let you know that we are all standing together. We are going to defeat the BJP...," he added. O'Brien recalled Modi's speech in Guntur in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday and said he didn't talk about development or special category status but "started a personal attack". Modi, who was on his first visit to the state after the TDP walked out of the NDA government, came down heavily on Naidu, whom he repeatedly referred to as "father of N Lokesh." Lashing out at the prime minister, Abdullah said, Modi has stooped so low. He's making personal attacks against Naidu, who is doing great service for the country. Memon alleged that the Central government was meting out step-motherly treatment to Andhra and the BJP was attacking Naidu because he has taken the lead in uniting rival parties against it. Mulayam Singh Yadav said he was not well but had come to endorse Naidu's stand. "Naidu is fighting the battle for the poor, the farmers and all those who are oppressed," he added. Stating that Naidu was fighting for a just cause, DMK leader Siva predicted that the Modi government would be ousted in three months. Sharad Yadav blamed the Modi government for unemployment, joblessness which he said were a result of demonetization. Kejriwal hit out at the prime minister over the alleged mistreatment meted out to states being run by governments of opposition parties. The way PM Modi treats governments of opposition parties in states, he behaves like he is not the PM of India but PM of Pakistan, he said. Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel and Jairam Ramesh were also at the venue to express their support. Naidu paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and at Ambedkar Statue at the Andhra Bhavan before he began the hunger strike.

Chandrababu Naidu's day-long fast turns into show of Opposition unity

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday arrived in Delhi ahead of his strike at Andhra Pradesh Bhawan on Monday demanding special status for his state.

Naidu will stage the 'Dharma Porata Deeksha' (a day-long protest for justice) at the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in the national capital from 8 am to 8 pm.

The chief minister will sit on a hunger strike along with his ministers, party MLAs, MLCs, and MPs.

As per an official statement, he will be submitting a memorandum to President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday.

Notably, Naidu in October 2013 had staged an indefinite fast at the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi, demanding that if a separate state is carved out of then unified Andhra Pradesh, both should get equal rights.&nbsp;

He, however on the fifth day of his protest was forcibly shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital.

Also on April 20 2018, on the occasion of his birthday, the TDP chief had observed fast in Vijayawada demanding special status for the state.

Earlier on Sunday Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Naidu, calling him a master in backstabbing and destroying the dreams of people.

His Telugu Desam Party had pulled out of the NDA last year over the Centre’s refusal to grant special category status to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday arrived in Delhi ahead of his strike at Andhra Pradesh Bhawan on Monday demanding special status for his state.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday arrived in Delhi ahead of his strike at Andhra Pradesh Bhawan on Monday demanding special status for his state. Naidu will stage the 'Dharma Porata Deeksha' (a day-long protest for justice) at the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in the national capital from 8 am to 8 pm. The chief minister will sit on a hunger strike along with his ministers, party MLAs, MLCs, and MPs. As per an official statement, he will be submitting a memorandum to President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday. Notably, Naidu in October 2013 had staged an indefinite fast at the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi, demanding that if a separate state is carved out of then unified Andhra Pradesh, both should get equal rights. He, however on the fifth day of his protest was forcibly shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Also on April 20 2018, on the occasion of his birthday, the TDP chief had observed fast in Vijayawada demanding special status for the state. Earlier on Sunday Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Naidu, calling him a master in backstabbing and destroying the dreams of people. His Telugu Desam Party had pulled out of the NDA last year over the Centre’s refusal to grant special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

Delhi: Chandrababu Naidu to sit on hunger strike demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh

Expressing support for Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's daylong fast, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had stolen from the people of the state and given the money to industrialist Anil Ambani.

The TDP president is on a fast in Delhi demanding that the Centre fulfil all promises made during Andhra Pradesh's bifurcation in 2014 and alleging that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-did-not-follow-raj-dharma-in-andhra-pradeshs-case-chandrababu-naidu-196539">prime minister was not following 'raj dharma'</a> by denying the state special status.

"The prime minister has stolen from the people from Andhra Pradesh and he has given that money to Anil Ambani. That is the fact of the matter," Gandhi said at the venue of the hunger strike in Andhra Bhavan.

The government and Ambani have rejected Gandhi's allegations of corruption in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France.

"Mr Narendra Modi, wherever he goes, he goes to Andhra Pradesh, he lies about special status. He goes to the North-East, he tells another lie over there. He goes to Maharashtra and he tells another lie over there. He has absolutely got no credibility left," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

Expressing support for Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's daylong fast, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had stolen from the people of the state and given the money to industrialist Anil Ambani.

Expressing support for Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's daylong fast, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had stolen from the people of the state and given the money to industrialist Anil Ambani. The TDP president is on a fast in Delhi demanding that the Centre fulfil all promises made during Andhra Pradesh's bifurcation in 2014 and alleging that the prime minister was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status. "The prime minister has stolen from the people from Andhra Pradesh and he has given that money to Anil Ambani. That is the fact of the matter," Gandhi said at the venue of the hunger strike in Andhra Bhavan. The government and Ambani have rejected Gandhi's allegations of corruption in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France. "Mr Narendra Modi, wherever he goes, he goes to Andhra Pradesh, he lies about special status. He goes to the North-East, he tells another lie over there. He goes to Maharashtra and he tells another lie over there. He has absolutely got no credibility left," Gandhi said.

PM Modi stole from Andhra Pradesh and gave it to Anil Ambani: Rahul Gandhi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.&nbsp;

Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise".

He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna.&nbsp;

Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election.&nbsp;

Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi.&nbsp;

"He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)."&nbsp;

Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury."&nbsp;

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PM in Guntur: Ye (Chandrababu Naidu) kal photo khichwane ke liye Delhi jane wale hain, bada hujoom le ke jane wale hain, party ka bigul bajane. Lekin BJP jaise apne karyakartaon ke paiso se karyakram kara rahi hai, vo Andhra ki janta ki tijori se paise nikaal kar ke ja rahe hain. <a href="https://t.co/RMkgmhqeJj">pic.twitter.com/RMkgmhqeJj</a>
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PM Modi in AP: Unhone (Chandrababu Naidu) Andhra Pradesh ke sun rise ka waada kiya tha, lekin apne ‘son’ ko hi rise karane main jutt gaye hain, unhone Andhra ke gareebon ke liye nayi yojnaein chalane ka wada kiya tha, lekin Modi ki yojanaon par hi apna sticker laga diya hai. <a href="https://t.co/gZKntjqf0B">pic.twitter.com/gZKntjqf0B</a>
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Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.&nbsp;

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday. Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise". He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna. Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election. Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi. "He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)." Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury." PM in Guntur: Ye (Chandrababu Naidu) kal photo khichwane ke liye Delhi jane wale hain, bada hujoom le ke jane wale hain, party ka bigul bajane. Lekin BJP jaise apne karyakartaon ke paiso se karyakram kara rahi hai, vo Andhra ki janta ki tijori se paise nikaal kar ke ja rahe hain. pic.twitter.com/RMkgmhqeJj — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × PM Modi in AP: Unhone (Chandrababu Naidu) Andhra Pradesh ke sun rise ka waada kiya tha, lekin apne ‘son’ ko hi rise karane main jutt gaye hain, unhone Andhra ke gareebon ke liye nayi yojnaein chalane ka wada kiya tha, lekin Modi ki yojanaon par hi apna sticker laga diya hai. pic.twitter.com/gZKntjqf0B — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.

Chandrababu Naidu promised 'sun rise' in Andhra, but he is stuck on making 'son rise': Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">prime minister</a>, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe.&nbsp;

"Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state.&nbsp;

In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point.

Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": &nbsp;

"One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.''

Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.''

Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said.

While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here."

Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The prime minister, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe. "Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state. In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point. Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": "One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.'' Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.'' Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said. While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here." Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own.

Chandrababu Naidu stabbed his father-in-law in the back: Modi in Andhra

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi. &nbsp;

"This dharna (Save the Constitution) is victory for the Constitution and democracy, so, let us end it today," Mamata said Tuesday evening with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu by her side.&nbsp;

"The (Supreme) Court gave a positive judgement today. Next week, we will continue to take up the issue in Delhi," Mamata added.&nbsp;

Naidu and other opposition leaders had had closed-door discussions with Mamata.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata: They (Central govt) want to control all the agencies including the state agencies also? PM you resign from Delhi and go back to Gujarat. One man govt, one party government is there. <a href="https://t.co/RckwAR0uUE">pic.twitter.com/RckwAR0uUE</a>
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Mamata had announced her dharna Sunday night after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345">a CBI team showed up, reportedly unannounced, at Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's home</a>. The CBI accused Kumar of slow-walking the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes.&nbsp;

Mamata said the CBI turning up announced at the Kolkata Police chief's home was a "destruction of the federal structure". She announced her&nbsp;dharna next.&nbsp;

The CBI has taken Kumar to the Supreme Court, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-mamata-standoff-supreme-court-asks-kolkata-police-commissioner-to-join-probe-says-he-cant-be-arrested-195215">accusing him of destroying evidence</a> in the investigations. On Tuesday, the court ordered Kumar to join the CBI investigation. It said Kumar would meet with the CBI in the neutral location of Shillong, Meghalaya.&nbsp;

It also ordered that he could not be arrested.&nbsp;

On Monday, when the CBI made the charge that Kumar was destroying evidence, the court said there was nothing in its submission to prove the claim. It added however that it would come down very heavily on Kumar should the CBI put forward any evidence to prove its claim.&nbsp;

It was the Supreme Court that had handed the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes to the CBI. The SIT (special investigation team) team investigating the alleged scams was being headed by Kumar.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna in Kolkata, while adding that she would "take up the issue" next week in Delhi. "This dharna (Save the Constitution) is victory for the Constitution and democracy, so, let us end it today," Mamata said Tuesday evening with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu by her side. "The (Supreme) Court gave a positive judgement today. Next week, we will continue to take up the issue in Delhi," Mamata added. Naidu and other opposition leaders had had closed-door discussions with Mamata. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata: They (Central govt) want to control all the agencies including the state agencies also? PM you resign from Delhi and go back to Gujarat. One man govt, one party government is there. pic.twitter.com/RckwAR0uUE — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × Mamata had announced her dharna Sunday night after a CBI team showed up, reportedly unannounced, at Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's home. The CBI accused Kumar of slow-walking the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes. Mamata said the CBI turning up announced at the Kolkata Police chief's home was a "destruction of the federal structure". She announced her dharna next. The CBI has taken Kumar to the Supreme Court, accusing him of destroying evidence in the investigations. On Tuesday, the court ordered Kumar to join the CBI investigation. It said Kumar would meet with the CBI in the neutral location of Shillong, Meghalaya. It also ordered that he could not be arrested. On Monday, when the CBI made the charge that Kumar was destroying evidence, the court said there was nothing in its submission to prove the claim. It added however that it would come down very heavily on Kumar should the CBI put forward any evidence to prove its claim. It was the Supreme Court that had handed the investigations into the alleged Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes to the CBI. The SIT (special investigation team) team investigating the alleged scams was being headed by Kumar.

Mamata Banerjee calls off her dharna, says will 'take up issue' next week in Delhi

An alliance of regional parties in India is working on a combined economic plan, one of its leaders said, in the latest sign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-far-will-the-united-opposition-go-without-prime-ministerial-face-194989">an increasingly united opposition</a> in the upcoming general election.

That plan is likely to include a landmark policy floated by India’s main opposition Congress party to provide the poor with a minimum income if it wins polls due by May, N Chandrababu Naidu, the politician who helped forge the common front, told Reuters in an interview.

The alliance – consisting of 23 parties that came together in a giant rally in Kolkata last month – would focus on poverty eradication, agriculture, employment and a “minimum income for every family”, he added.

&nbsp;"So many political parties are working (on a) consensus. The farmers' crisis is the biggest issue, unemployment is the biggest issue,” Naidu said. "The economy (is where) you have to concentrate”.

Polls have forecast Modi's ruling alliance will fall short of a majority in the election, which could potentially allow a coalition of regional parties to take a shot at coming to power.

However, there are questions over who could lead the opposition alliance, or whether regional parties would be open to supporting Congress chief Rahul Gandhi should his party emerge with a significant number of seats.

"A prime minister will be decided afterwards with consensus," Naidu said, ruling out selecting a figurehead before the polls. "First of all we have to win the elections."

As chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, Naidu has been credited with implementing business-friendly polices that attracted firms like Microsoft to the southern state.

His Telugu Desam Party, one of the largest regional parties in India's parliament, was part of a coalition led by Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) till last March, when he broke away after disagreements over funding for Andhra Pradesh.

Since then, he has emerged as one of the main architects of an informal alliance seeking to unseat the BJP.

An alliance of regional parties in India is working on a combined economic plan, one of its leaders said, in the latest sign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces an increasingly united opposition in the upcoming general election.

An alliance of regional parties in India is working on a combined economic plan, one of its leaders said, in the latest sign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces an increasingly united opposition in the upcoming general election. That plan is likely to include a landmark policy floated by India’s main opposition Congress party to provide the poor with a minimum income if it wins polls due by May, N Chandrababu Naidu, the politician who helped forge the common front, told Reuters in an interview. The alliance – consisting of 23 parties that came together in a giant rally in Kolkata last month – would focus on poverty eradication, agriculture, employment and a “minimum income for every family”, he added. "So many political parties are working (on a) consensus. The farmers' crisis is the biggest issue, unemployment is the biggest issue,” Naidu said. "The economy (is where) you have to concentrate”. Polls have forecast Modi's ruling alliance will fall short of a majority in the election, which could potentially allow a coalition of regional parties to take a shot at coming to power. However, there are questions over who could lead the opposition alliance, or whether regional parties would be open to supporting Congress chief Rahul Gandhi should his party emerge with a significant number of seats. "A prime minister will be decided afterwards with consensus," Naidu said, ruling out selecting a figurehead before the polls. "First of all we have to win the elections." As chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, Naidu has been credited with implementing business-friendly polices that attracted firms like Microsoft to the southern state. His Telugu Desam Party, one of the largest regional parties in India's parliament, was part of a coalition led by Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) till last March, when he broke away after disagreements over funding for Andhra Pradesh. Since then, he has emerged as one of the main architects of an informal alliance seeking to unseat the BJP.

Economy is where you have to concentrate: Chandrababu Naidu on Opposition’s plan for 2019 elections

After sweeping the Assembly elections in Telangana, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) has revived his efforts for a non-Congress and non-BJP Federal Front.

Rao, who was instrumental in the formation of the Telangana state, has asserted that his party will play a crucial role in national politics. KCR &nbsp;has said that he intends to give a new definition to the national scenario - just like Telangana which stands a non-Congress and non-BJP state.

KCR's victory in the state Assembly polls was no less than a historic one, bagging 88 seats in the 119-member House.&nbsp;

On Monday, KCR met Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief and Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. However, both Patnaik and Mamata have not committed their participation in the Federal Front yet. Hiding his visible disappointment, Rao said their dialogue will continue for an alternative front to the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliances.

Carrying on with his mission of creating a non-Congress Federal Front, KCR will now meet Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the other hand, KCR's arch-rival and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu is also running pillar to post to unite all the like-minded Opposition parties to take on the BJP in 2019 elections.&nbsp;

In a significant move, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and approached party president Rahul Gandhi to garner his support for the Grand Alliance. Putting aside over three decades of rivalry, both the leaders even addressed public meetings together as part of their campaign for just-concluded Telangana Assembly polls.

Mamata Banerjee, a key interlocutor among Opposition parties, too has been trying to bring anti-BJP parties under one umbrella. Naidu and Mamata have been in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP. Therefore, it's unlikely that Mamata will support KCR's Federal Front (Regional Federation) over the national-level Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan).

Furthermore, seasoned leaders like Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah have authorised Chandrababu Naidu to speak to Opposition leaders to devise the future strategy for United Opposition. DMK chief Stalin has already proposed the Congress president's name as United Opposition's PM candidate. Naidu also has the support of Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

Here is another reason which might hold back political parties from supporting KCR - the Telangana chief minister is accused of acting as team B of BJP-led NDA and trying to weaken the proposed Mahagathbandhan.

Moreover, after Congress's triumph in the recently held Assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a confident and formidable leader. It is nearly impossible for Opposition leaders to ignore the Gandhi scion.&nbsp;

KCR has indeed proved his mettle by leading the struggle for Telangana and forming government in the state for the second time, however, only seasoned politicians coming together on one platform - Mahagathbandhan, can put up a strong candidature against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has done some unparalleled work in the last four and a half years. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

After sweeping the Assembly elections in Telangana, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) has revived his efforts for a non-Congress and non-BJP Federal Front.

After sweeping the Assembly elections in Telangana, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) has revived his efforts for a non-Congress and non-BJP Federal Front. Rao, who was instrumental in the formation of the Telangana state, has asserted that his party will play a crucial role in national politics. KCR has said that he intends to give a new definition to the national scenario - just like Telangana which stands a non-Congress and non-BJP state. KCR's victory in the state Assembly polls was no less than a historic one, bagging 88 seats in the 119-member House. On Monday, KCR met Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief and Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. However, both Patnaik and Mamata have not committed their participation in the Federal Front yet. Hiding his visible disappointment, Rao said their dialogue will continue for an alternative front to the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliances. Carrying on with his mission of creating a non-Congress Federal Front, KCR will now meet Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati. On the other hand, KCR's arch-rival and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu is also running pillar to post to unite all the like-minded Opposition parties to take on the BJP in 2019 elections. In a significant move, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and approached party president Rahul Gandhi to garner his support for the Grand Alliance. Putting aside over three decades of rivalry, both the leaders even addressed public meetings together as part of their campaign for just-concluded Telangana Assembly polls. Mamata Banerjee, a key interlocutor among Opposition parties, too has been trying to bring anti-BJP parties under one umbrella. Naidu and Mamata have been in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP. Therefore, it's unlikely that Mamata will support KCR's Federal Front (Regional Federation) over the national-level Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan). Furthermore, seasoned leaders like Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah have authorised Chandrababu Naidu to speak to Opposition leaders to devise the future strategy for United Opposition. DMK chief Stalin has already proposed the Congress president's name as United Opposition's PM candidate. Naidu also has the support of Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. Here is another reason which might hold back political parties from supporting KCR - the Telangana chief minister is accused of acting as team B of BJP-led NDA and trying to weaken the proposed Mahagathbandhan. Moreover, after Congress's triumph in the recently held Assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a confident and formidable leader. It is nearly impossible for Opposition leaders to ignore the Gandhi scion. KCR has indeed proved his mettle by leading the struggle for Telangana and forming government in the state for the second time, however, only seasoned politicians coming together on one platform - Mahagathbandhan, can put up a strong candidature against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has done some unparalleled work in the last four and a half years. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

KCR is trying hard, but is a non-Congress Federal Front possible?

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