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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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?

On the penultimate day of campaigning for the Telangana Assembly elections, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu said that TRS is scared of the people`s mandate and are conducting bogus surveys in order to confuse them.

Asking the people of the state to "revolt" against the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Naidu said Congress and TDP have votes in their favour, while the TRS has cash bags on its side, alleged the TDP chief.

"The TRS is bound to lose the election due to its inefficient rule for four and a half years. They have done nothing for the state and so are indulging in verbal attacks against opposition parties` alliance," Naidu said while addressing a rally on Tuesday.

Naidu claimed that while his vision was the reason for the development of Hyderabad, developmental works became stagnant during the TRS` rule.

"The city which was clean and green once has now become a garbage pit,'' he said.&nbsp;

Telangana Assembly elections are due on December 7 while counting of votes will take place on December 11.&nbsp;

On the penultimate day of campaigning for the Telangana Assembly elections, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu said that TRS is scared of the people`s mandate and are conducting bogus surveys in order to confuse them.

On the penultimate day of campaigning for the Telangana Assembly elections, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu said that TRS is scared of the people`s mandate and are conducting bogus surveys in order to confuse them. Asking the people of the state to "revolt" against the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Naidu said Congress and TDP have votes in their favour, while the TRS has cash bags on its side, alleged the TDP chief. "The TRS is bound to lose the election due to its inefficient rule for four and a half years. They have done nothing for the state and so are indulging in verbal attacks against opposition parties` alliance," Naidu said while addressing a rally on Tuesday. Naidu claimed that while his vision was the reason for the development of Hyderabad, developmental works became stagnant during the TRS` rule. "The city which was clean and green once has now become a garbage pit,'' he said. Telangana Assembly elections are due on December 7 while counting of votes will take place on December 11.

TRS conducts bogus surveys as they are scared of people's mandate: Chandrababu

Telangana Rashtra Samiti's chief and state Chief Minister KC Rao on Sunday accused Andhra CM of distorting facts.&nbsp;

According to reports, Rao accused N Chandrababu Naidu of distorting facts over the development of Hyderabad and said that the TDP chief needs a "mental check-up."

"Chandrababu Naidu says he built Hyderabad. Quli Qutub Shah who built the city would commit suicide (if he is alive and hears this). Was Charminar (monument) also built by Naidu? I don't understand," Rao said during an election rally in Telangana.

"Would anybody talk like that? I think he should be examined to check to see whether he is mentally fit," Rao added.

"On one side you have Congress and TDP which ruled the state for 58 years and on the other side there is TRS which fought for Telangana and achieved it," he stated.

Meanwhile, Andhra Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday asked if he ever stopped KC Rao from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/never-stopped-kcr-from-fulfilling-his-poll-promises-chandrababu-naidu-180905">fulfilling his poll promises</a> in Telangana.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Naidu claimed to have no interest in Telangana's politics.

Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted.&nbsp;

Telangana Rashtra Samiti's chief and state Chief Minister KC Rao on Sunday accused Andhra CM of distorting facts. According to reports, Rao accused N Chandrababu Naidu of distorting facts over the development of Hyderabad and said that the TDP chief needs a "mental check-up.

Telangana Rashtra Samiti's chief and state Chief Minister KC Rao on Sunday accused Andhra CM of distorting facts. According to reports, Rao accused N Chandrababu Naidu of distorting facts over the development of Hyderabad and said that the TDP chief needs a "mental check-up." "Chandrababu Naidu says he built Hyderabad. Quli Qutub Shah who built the city would commit suicide (if he is alive and hears this). Was Charminar (monument) also built by Naidu? I don't understand," Rao said during an election rally in Telangana. "Would anybody talk like that? I think he should be examined to check to see whether he is mentally fit," Rao added. "On one side you have Congress and TDP which ruled the state for 58 years and on the other side there is TRS which fought for Telangana and achieved it," he stated. Meanwhile, Andhra Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday asked if he ever stopped KC Rao from fulfilling his poll promises in Telangana. Earlier this week, Naidu claimed to have no interest in Telangana's politics. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister. "I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted.

Chandrababu Naidu needs a mental check-up: KC Rao

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday said that he never stopped Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao from fulfilling his poll promises.

In a tweet, the Telugu Desam Party chief asked Telangana CM if he had ever obstructed Rao from fulfilling his poll promises.&nbsp;

"Did I prevent you from giving three acres of land to dalits? Did I prevent you from making a dalit the chief minister (for Telangana)? Did I prevent the development of Telangana? KCR should say where I stopped (the development)?" Naidu tweeted.

The Congress, TDP, CPI and Prof Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi have formed an alliance for the December 7 Assembly polls. The 'grand alliance' has been named 'Mahakutami' by Naidu.

Naidu on Saturday clarified having <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/might-enter-national-politics-but-not-telanganas-chandrababu-naidu-180667">no interest in entering Telangana's politics</a>.&nbsp;

Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted.

The election wave continues to intensify in Telangana which is headed for assembly polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday said that he never stopped Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao from fulfilling his poll promises.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday said that he never stopped Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao from fulfilling his poll promises. In a tweet, the Telugu Desam Party chief asked Telangana CM if he had ever obstructed Rao from fulfilling his poll promises. "Did I prevent you from giving three acres of land to dalits? Did I prevent you from making a dalit the chief minister (for Telangana)? Did I prevent the development of Telangana? KCR should say where I stopped (the development)?" Naidu tweeted. The Congress, TDP, CPI and Prof Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi have formed an alliance for the December 7 Assembly polls. The 'grand alliance' has been named 'Mahakutami' by Naidu. Naidu on Saturday clarified having no interest in entering Telangana's politics. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister. "I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted. The election wave continues to intensify in Telangana which is headed for assembly polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.

Never stopped KCR from fulfilling his poll promises: Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said that he might enter national politics but will not enter Telangana politics as he is not greedy for power.&nbsp;

Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted.

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Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Alkapur, Hyderabad: I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/n9St1AVrwJ">pic.twitter.com/n9St1AVrwJ</a>
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Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh described the Congress-TDP alliance as "unholy," one which is aimed to stop the BJP and PM Modi.

"The alliance of Congress and TDP is an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-tdp-alliance-is-unholy-rajnath-singh-in-telangana-180599">unholy alliance</a>. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi," Singh said today in Warangal, Telangana.&nbsp;

The election wave continues to intensify in Telangana which is headed for assembly polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said that he might enter national politics but will not enter Telangana politics as he is not greedy for power.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said that he might enter national politics but will not enter Telangana politics as he is not greedy for power. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Telugu Desam Party chief said that his aim is to protect the democracy "which is in danger" and not to become the Prime Minister. "I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger," Naidu noted. Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu in Alkapur, Hyderabad: I may enter national politics but won't enter Telangana politics. I'm not greedy for power. I am not thinking of becoming the Prime Minister. My aim is to protect the democracy which is in danger. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/n9St1AVrwJ — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2018 × Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh described the Congress-TDP alliance as "unholy," one which is aimed to stop the BJP and PM Modi. "The alliance of Congress and TDP is an unholy alliance. These parties have formed this coalition, not for the development of the country rather it is an alliance to stop BJP and Modi," Singh said today in Warangal, Telangana. The election wave continues to intensify in Telangana which is headed for assembly polls on December 7, votes will be counted on December 11.

Might enter national politics but not Telangana's: Chandrababu Naidu

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday.

He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator.

A first time MLA, Ravela served as social welfare minister in the Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet from June 8, 2014 to April 1, 2017.

He was sacked for non-performance and his controversial behaviour.

He was elected from the Prathipadu Assembly constituency in Guntur district but reportedly never maintained cordial relations with the local party leaders.

He has been staying away from party affairs for some time now.

Babu sent his resignation letter to the Assembly Speakers office Friday evening, party sources said.

He also sent a note, addressed to Chandrababu Naidu, to the TDP state office at Guntur, saying he was resigning from the primary membership of the TDP with effect from November 30.

He, however, did not give any reason.

Reacting to the development, state Civil Supplies minister P Pulla Rao, who represents Guntur district, said it was a hasty decision by Babu.

"I tried speaking to him since yesterday but he was not available," Rao added.&nbsp;

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday. He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator.

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday. He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator. A first time MLA, Ravela served as social welfare minister in the Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet from June 8, 2014 to April 1, 2017. He was sacked for non-performance and his controversial behaviour. He was elected from the Prathipadu Assembly constituency in Guntur district but reportedly never maintained cordial relations with the local party leaders. He has been staying away from party affairs for some time now. Babu sent his resignation letter to the Assembly Speakers office Friday evening, party sources said. He also sent a note, addressed to Chandrababu Naidu, to the TDP state office at Guntur, saying he was resigning from the primary membership of the TDP with effect from November 30. He, however, did not give any reason. Reacting to the development, state Civil Supplies minister P Pulla Rao, who represents Guntur district, said it was a hasty decision by Babu. "I tried speaking to him since yesterday but he was not available," Rao added.

TDP MLA resigns from party and assembly membership

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged.

Speaking at a roadshow at Kukatpally on Thursday, the TRS leader lashed out at Telugu Desam Party and its chief Naidu, questioning as to why Naidu's son and AP Minister N Lokesh was not asked to contest the seat.

Suhasini is the daughter of former Rajya Sabha MP N Hari Krishna and grand-daughter of TDP founder and former Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao.

"If Chandrababu Naidu really loves the Nandamuri family, why didn't he appoint Suhasini as a Minister in Andhra Pradesh, like he appointed Lokesh? If Chandrababu Naidu really wants to strengthen TDP in Telangana, he could have made Lokesh contest from Kukatpally. But he did not, because he knows Kukatpally is a losing seat," the TRS leader alleged.

In a dramatic turn of events, Naidu decided to field Suhasini from Kukatpally ignoring senior party leader E Peddireddy, who evinced interest in contesting from the constituency.

Rubbishing K T Rama Rao's remarks, Peddireddy said it was the party's decision to field Suhasini from Kukatpally and people in the constituency are accepting her.

He also said Lokesh is now a minister in the Andhra government and he chose Andhra Pradesh for his political career.

"Lokesh chose AP for his political career. He is a minister there. How will he contest from here. Suhasini belongs to the NTR family. People are accepting her in Kukatpally. KTR was talking in desperation," Peddireddy said.

Naidu wants to make Suhasini a scapegoat and later prevent her brothers (Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram) from entering politics, the TRS leader alleged.

Talking about alliance between the Congress and TDP, Rama Rao said, NTR's soul would be 'troubled' seeing the alliance and sought to know on what basis did they form an alliance.

Justifying the TRS alliance with TDP in the 2009 elections, Rama Rao said they tied up with the TDP only after the latter assured to support separate Telangana statehood.

"Naidu today is asking why he is being criticised. Was he not the one who tried to poach TRS MLAs? Was he not the one who wrote letters to the Centre, creating hurdles in irrigation project works," the TRS leader asked.

The TRS leader the support of the people asking them to vote for the paryt and said, "development in Kukatpally will come to a halt if TRS doesn't come to power."

Elections to the 119-member Telangana assembly are scheduled to be held on December 7.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged. Speaking at a roadshow at Kukatpally on Thursday, the TRS leader lashed out at Telugu Desam Party and its chief Naidu, questioning as to why Naidu's son and AP Minister N Lokesh was not asked to contest the seat. Suhasini is the daughter of former Rajya Sabha MP N Hari Krishna and grand-daughter of TDP founder and former Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao. "If Chandrababu Naidu really loves the Nandamuri family, why didn't he appoint Suhasini as a Minister in Andhra Pradesh, like he appointed Lokesh? If Chandrababu Naidu really wants to strengthen TDP in Telangana, he could have made Lokesh contest from Kukatpally. But he did not, because he knows Kukatpally is a losing seat," the TRS leader alleged. In a dramatic turn of events, Naidu decided to field Suhasini from Kukatpally ignoring senior party leader E Peddireddy, who evinced interest in contesting from the constituency. Rubbishing K T Rama Rao's remarks, Peddireddy said it was the party's decision to field Suhasini from Kukatpally and people in the constituency are accepting her. He also said Lokesh is now a minister in the Andhra government and he chose Andhra Pradesh for his political career. "Lokesh chose AP for his political career. He is a minister there. How will he contest from here. Suhasini belongs to the NTR family. People are accepting her in Kukatpally. KTR was talking in desperation," Peddireddy said. Naidu wants to make Suhasini a scapegoat and later prevent her brothers (Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram) from entering politics, the TRS leader alleged. Talking about alliance between the Congress and TDP, Rama Rao said, NTR's soul would be 'troubled' seeing the alliance and sought to know on what basis did they form an alliance. Justifying the TRS alliance with TDP in the 2009 elections, Rama Rao said they tied up with the TDP only after the latter assured to support separate Telangana statehood. "Naidu today is asking why he is being criticised. Was he not the one who tried to poach TRS MLAs? Was he not the one who wrote letters to the Centre, creating hurdles in irrigation project works," the TRS leader asked. The TRS leader the support of the people asking them to vote for the paryt and said, "development in Kukatpally will come to a halt if TRS doesn't come to power." Elections to the 119-member Telangana assembly are scheduled to be held on December 7.

Chandrababu Naidu has made NTR's grand-daughter a 'scapegoat': KT Rama Rao

Justifying the move to join hands with the Congress, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday said they had no ideological differences with the Rahul Gandhi-led party.

Naidu, who shared the dais with Gandhi in a couple of meetings Wednesday as part of a poll campaign for People's Front candidates in the state, said there was a democratic compulsion for non-BJP parties to come on a single platform.

"Politically, we (TDP and Congress) are different. The Telugu Desam Party, from the beginning has been fighting against the Congress and that is a reality. Ideologically we do not have any differences. Ideologically, we have differences with the BJP," he told reporters in Hyderabad.

"But today there is a democratic compulsion. That's why there is a necessity to fight against the BJP to save the Constitution and also save institutions," he said when asked about the decades-old differences with Congress.

The Congress had roped in the TDP, CPI and M Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi to form the People's Front to take on the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samiti in the December 7 Assembly polls.

He said the BJP had no chance of winning any of the five states which were under various stages of the election process.

According to him, the BJP could manage to win only four or five Lok Sabha bypolls in the last 20-odd ones.

"(Prime Minister Narendra) Modi disappointed the nation. People trusted him so much and they also had so much faith in him. But he disappointed the nation. Everybody is living under pressure and tension. It is very bad for the nation that they are misusing institutions like CBI, ED and Income Tax," he claimed.

On the proposed meeting of non-BJP parties on December 10, Naidu said there would not be any formal invitation to any party.

On being asked who would lead the anti-BJP coalition, he said, "Who is Narendra Modi? Till 2014 he was just a chief minister. He was able to lead (his party to a win). Now there are efficient people and able administrators. They will lead. We will bring a consensus on that. I am not in the race for prime ministership... I've told many times. I am not expecting any position or any incentive out of this initiative."

He said the People's Front was going to win and form government in Telangana.

Justifying the move to join hands with the Congress, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday said they had no ideological differences with the Rahul Gandhi-led party.

Justifying the move to join hands with the Congress, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu Thursday said they had no ideological differences with the Rahul Gandhi-led party. Naidu, who shared the dais with Gandhi in a couple of meetings Wednesday as part of a poll campaign for People's Front candidates in the state, said there was a democratic compulsion for non-BJP parties to come on a single platform. "Politically, we (TDP and Congress) are different. The Telugu Desam Party, from the beginning has been fighting against the Congress and that is a reality. Ideologically we do not have any differences. Ideologically, we have differences with the BJP," he told reporters in Hyderabad. "But today there is a democratic compulsion. That's why there is a necessity to fight against the BJP to save the Constitution and also save institutions," he said when asked about the decades-old differences with Congress. The Congress had roped in the TDP, CPI and M Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi to form the People's Front to take on the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samiti in the December 7 Assembly polls. He said the BJP had no chance of winning any of the five states which were under various stages of the election process. According to him, the BJP could manage to win only four or five Lok Sabha bypolls in the last 20-odd ones. "(Prime Minister Narendra) Modi disappointed the nation. People trusted him so much and they also had so much faith in him. But he disappointed the nation. Everybody is living under pressure and tension. It is very bad for the nation that they are misusing institutions like CBI, ED and Income Tax," he claimed. On the proposed meeting of non-BJP parties on December 10, Naidu said there would not be any formal invitation to any party. On being asked who would lead the anti-BJP coalition, he said, "Who is Narendra Modi? Till 2014 he was just a chief minister. He was able to lead (his party to a win). Now there are efficient people and able administrators. They will lead. We will bring a consensus on that. I am not in the race for prime ministership... I've told many times. I am not expecting any position or any incentive out of this initiative." He said the People's Front was going to win and form government in Telangana.

No ideological differences with Congress: Chandrababu Naidu

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up&nbsp;efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party. He said that it's the responsibility of opposition leaders to defeat the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and save the democracy.

Most importantly, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and met party president Rahul Gandhi. Both the leaders stressed on the need for Opposition unity to save the nation. They maintained it's a democratic compulsion for the TDP and Congress to come together setting aside their differences.

Furthermore, Naidu also met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, his son and chief minister of Karnataka HD Kumaraswamy and DMK chief MK Stalin to put up united face against the BJP.

Asserting that the nation is under threat, the TDP chief has convened a meeting of the Opposition leaders in December to discuss future strategies to defeat the BJP in 2019 elections.

Naidu had pulled out of the NDA in March this year over the Centre's refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh.

A few days ago, Mamata Banerjee was running from pillar to post to unite the opposition, but now Chandrababu Naidu is racing ahead of her. However, they both are in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP.

The two interlocutors - Naidu and Mamata, have been trying to stitch an anti-BJP alliance for quite some time now. They have made communalism, attack on institutions like RBI, CBI and economic crisis under the NDA-rule as main grounds to garner the support of the Opposition parties.&nbsp;

The 'Third Front' could be a definite possibility in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and several state elections prove it quite clearly. In Uttar Pradesh bypolls, Samajwadi Party, backed by the BSP, defeated the BJP in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituency. &nbsp;

In 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections, the Saffron party met a similar fate when Congress and JD(S) formed a coalition government in the state despite BJP emerging as the single largest party.&nbsp;

Moreover, in the recent Karnataka bypolls, the ruling coalition - JDS-Congress stunned BJP by winning both the Assembly seats and two of the three Lok Sabha seats. This came as a morale booster for the Opposition in the run-up to 2019 Assembly elections.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in another significant development, PDP, with the support of Congress and National Conference, has staked claim to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir. This is an important realignment of political forces in the state wherein NC and PDP have set aside their rivalry to take on the BJP.

It seems there is no competition among the opposition leaders for declaring the face of Opposition (at least for now). Acting wisely, Naidu has chosen to go along with Mamata Banerjee on this, and after a round of talks both the leaders announced - "Everyone will be the face of Mahagathbandhan."

Senior Opposition leaders like Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah have authorised Naidu to speak to various state leaders to bring all anti-BJP forces together. The TDP chief has reportedly assured them of convincing Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to become part of the 'Grand Secular Alliance' against the saffron party.

Currently, there is no credible alternative leader to lead the pack of anti-BJP forces. With major Opposition parties singing in chorus against the BJP, 'Third Front' is no more a distant dream.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019. Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party.

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019. Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party. He said that it's the responsibility of opposition leaders to defeat the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and save the democracy. Most importantly, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and met party president Rahul Gandhi. Both the leaders stressed on the need for Opposition unity to save the nation. They maintained it's a democratic compulsion for the TDP and Congress to come together setting aside their differences. Furthermore, Naidu also met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, his son and chief minister of Karnataka HD Kumaraswamy and DMK chief MK Stalin to put up united face against the BJP. Asserting that the nation is under threat, the TDP chief has convened a meeting of the Opposition leaders in December to discuss future strategies to defeat the BJP in 2019 elections. Naidu had pulled out of the NDA in March this year over the Centre's refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh. A few days ago, Mamata Banerjee was running from pillar to post to unite the opposition, but now Chandrababu Naidu is racing ahead of her. However, they both are in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP. The two interlocutors - Naidu and Mamata, have been trying to stitch an anti-BJP alliance for quite some time now. They have made communalism, attack on institutions like RBI, CBI and economic crisis under the NDA-rule as main grounds to garner the support of the Opposition parties. The 'Third Front' could be a definite possibility in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and several state elections prove it quite clearly. In Uttar Pradesh bypolls, Samajwadi Party, backed by the BSP, defeated the BJP in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituency. In 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections, the Saffron party met a similar fate when Congress and JD(S) formed a coalition government in the state despite BJP emerging as the single largest party. Moreover, in the recent Karnataka bypolls, the ruling coalition - JDS-Congress stunned BJP by winning both the Assembly seats and two of the three Lok Sabha seats. This came as a morale booster for the Opposition in the run-up to 2019 Assembly elections. Meanwhile, in another significant development, PDP, with the support of Congress and National Conference, has staked claim to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir. This is an important realignment of political forces in the state wherein NC and PDP have set aside their rivalry to take on the BJP. It seems there is no competition among the opposition leaders for declaring the face of Opposition (at least for now). Acting wisely, Naidu has chosen to go along with Mamata Banerjee on this, and after a round of talks both the leaders announced - "Everyone will be the face of Mahagathbandhan." Senior Opposition leaders like Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah have authorised Naidu to speak to various state leaders to bring all anti-BJP forces together. The TDP chief has reportedly assured them of convincing Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to become part of the 'Grand Secular Alliance' against the saffron party. Currently, there is no credible alternative leader to lead the pack of anti-BJP forces. With major Opposition parties singing in chorus against the BJP, 'Third Front' is no more a distant dream. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chandrababu Naidu - Opposition's trump card to unite anti-BJP forces

The verbal attacks during the ongoing election campaign in Telangana hit a new low Sunday when Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao called his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu "a mental".

The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief was speaking at a public meeting at Pargi in Vikarabad district ahead of the December 7 state Assembly polls.

"I say Chandrababu is a mental. Why? Because he had once said goats should be banned in order to save the forests (by preventing grazing). When was the goat born (the species came into existence) and when was he born? Who are you to ban the goat, a creation of nature?" Rao asked.

"He (Naidu) claims that he was instrumental in putting Hyderabad on the world map. What should we do with this man," he said, hitting out at the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supremo.

"If he is that capable, why did he fail in building Amaravati (the upcoming capital of Andhra Pradesh)? Except graphic representations, no real building has come up there.

"This kind of cheats are coming to you, seeking votes. If we are not careful, we will be cheated," Rao said in a scathing attack on the People's Front alliance of the Congress, TDP, Telangana Jana Samithi and CPI.

He claimed that the power situation in Telangana had improved drastically since 2014, but it would worsen again if his party lost in the upcoming polls. 
The TRS was going to form the government by winning 103 to 106 of the 119 seats in the state, Rao claimed, citing a survey.

At a public meeting at Devarkadra, Rao alleged that Naidu had filed 35 court cases and "written 40 letters", opposing the irrigating projects in Telangana, and now, he was seeking votes in the state.

Hitting out at the Congress, the TRS chief said, "Don't you see the development here? Are you giving a Rs 1,000 pension to people in the states where your party is in power (as in Telangana)?"

Speaking at Narayanpet, the chief minister said democracy in the country had not reached "enough maturity levels" and that people should not vote carelessly.

"Many parties will come and say many things. Please listen to them and think once again before casting the vote, which is going to change our fate," he said.

Rao also addressed public meetings at Tandur, Shadnagar and Ibrahimpatnam Sunday.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to the polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

The verbal attacks during the ongoing election campaign in Telangana hit a new low Sunday when Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao called his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu "a mental".

The verbal attacks during the ongoing election campaign in Telangana hit a new low Sunday when Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao called his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu "a mental". The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief was speaking at a public meeting at Pargi in Vikarabad district ahead of the December 7 state Assembly polls. "I say Chandrababu is a mental. Why? Because he had once said goats should be banned in order to save the forests (by preventing grazing). When was the goat born (the species came into existence) and when was he born? Who are you to ban the goat, a creation of nature?" Rao asked. "He (Naidu) claims that he was instrumental in putting Hyderabad on the world map. What should we do with this man," he said, hitting out at the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supremo. "If he is that capable, why did he fail in building Amaravati (the upcoming capital of Andhra Pradesh)? Except graphic representations, no real building has come up there. "This kind of cheats are coming to you, seeking votes. If we are not careful, we will be cheated," Rao said in a scathing attack on the People's Front alliance of the Congress, TDP, Telangana Jana Samithi and CPI. He claimed that the power situation in Telangana had improved drastically since 2014, but it would worsen again if his party lost in the upcoming polls. The TRS was going to form the government by winning 103 to 106 of the 119 seats in the state, Rao claimed, citing a survey. At a public meeting at Devarkadra, Rao alleged that Naidu had filed 35 court cases and "written 40 letters", opposing the irrigating projects in Telangana, and now, he was seeking votes in the state. Hitting out at the Congress, the TRS chief said, "Don't you see the development here? Are you giving a Rs 1,000 pension to people in the states where your party is in power (as in Telangana)?" Speaking at Narayanpet, the chief minister said democracy in the country had not reached "enough maturity levels" and that people should not vote carelessly. "Many parties will come and say many things. Please listen to them and think once again before casting the vote, which is going to change our fate," he said. Rao also addressed public meetings at Tandur, Shadnagar and Ibrahimpatnam Sunday. The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to the polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

KCR calls Chandrababu 'mental', questions his development claims

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday.

This ends speculation over whether the Andhra Pradesh chief minister would join Gandhi at her public meeting in Medchal after the two parties, along with others, forged an alliance for the upcoming Telangana Assembly polls.

Last month, the Congress forged the alliance, 'Prajakutami' (People's Alliance), with the TDP, the Telangana Jana Samithi and the Communist Party of India to take on the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) in the December 7 elections.

But Naidu would campaign with Congress president Rahul Gandhi at some places during the latter's visit to the state on November 28 and 29 and December 3, Khuntia told PTI.

"Not all but (at) some meetings (Naidu and Rahul Gandhi will share stage)," he said.

Khuntia said the Congress is planning to release its election manifesto on November 23.

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday.

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu will not share the stage with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi at her November 23 election rally in Telangana, state AICC in-charge R C Khuntia said Wednesday. This ends speculation over whether the Andhra Pradesh chief minister would join Gandhi at her public meeting in Medchal after the two parties, along with others, forged an alliance for the upcoming Telangana Assembly polls. Last month, the Congress forged the alliance, 'Prajakutami' (People's Alliance), with the TDP, the Telangana Jana Samithi and the Communist Party of India to take on the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) in the December 7 elections. But Naidu would campaign with Congress president Rahul Gandhi at some places during the latter's visit to the state on November 28 and 29 and December 3, Khuntia told PTI. "Not all but (at) some meetings (Naidu and Rahul Gandhi will share stage)," he said. Khuntia said the Congress is planning to release its election manifesto on November 23.

Chandrababu Naidu will not share stage with Sonia at Telangana rally: Congress

In what can be seen as a confrontation with the Centre, the Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has withdrawn the 'general consent'&nbsp;to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct raids and carry out investigations on central establishments in Andhra Pradesh.

As per rules under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act of 1946, in accordance with which the CBI was formed, the investigating agency has complete jurisdiction over Delhi. But it can also enter the other states with the 'General Consent'&nbsp;of that state's government.

In the absence of the permission now, the CBI cannot interfere with any case that takes place within the limits of Andhra Pradesh.

The Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has also vested the state investigation agency with the responsibility of CBI duties in the state.

The Andhra government Order was passed on November 8, three months after it gave the general consent to the CBI to exercise its powers and jurisdiction in the state.

The development comes after Naidu pulled out from the National Democratic Alliance over demands for 'special status'&nbsp;to Andhra Pradesh.

In the aftermath, he accused the Centre of bringing down the reputation and credibility of CBI for its own gains.

The move of Andhra Pradesh shutting its door for the CBI is seen as an instance of shadow-boxing between the Centre and state under the federal system, especially when Naidu is pulling no stops to unite the non-BJP parties with the slogan "Save Democracy - Save Nation".

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) spokesperson, Lanka Dinakar, told ANI, "This decision has been taken in wake of incidents happening in CBI since last six months. It lost its independence due to involvement of Modi-led union government which is using CBI as tools against political opponents by means of preparing fabricated statements."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was quick to endorse the Andhra government's decision. "Chandrababu Naidu has done the right thing in saying he wouldn`t allow CBI in his state. The BJP can be 'note changer', but it's not a game changer," she said. 
&nbsp;

In what can be seen as a confrontation with the Centre, the Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has withdrawn the 'general consent' to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct raids and carry out investigations on central establishments in Andhra Pradesh.

In what can be seen as a confrontation with the Centre, the Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has withdrawn the 'general consent' to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct raids and carry out investigations on central establishments in Andhra Pradesh. As per rules under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act of 1946, in accordance with which the CBI was formed, the investigating agency has complete jurisdiction over Delhi. But it can also enter the other states with the 'General Consent' of that state's government. In the absence of the permission now, the CBI cannot interfere with any case that takes place within the limits of Andhra Pradesh. The Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has also vested the state investigation agency with the responsibility of CBI duties in the state. The Andhra government Order was passed on November 8, three months after it gave the general consent to the CBI to exercise its powers and jurisdiction in the state. The development comes after Naidu pulled out from the National Democratic Alliance over demands for 'special status' to Andhra Pradesh. In the aftermath, he accused the Centre of bringing down the reputation and credibility of CBI for its own gains. The move of Andhra Pradesh shutting its door for the CBI is seen as an instance of shadow-boxing between the Centre and state under the federal system, especially when Naidu is pulling no stops to unite the non-BJP parties with the slogan "Save Democracy - Save Nation". Telugu Desam Party (TDP) spokesperson, Lanka Dinakar, told ANI, "This decision has been taken in wake of incidents happening in CBI since last six months. It lost its independence due to involvement of Modi-led union government which is using CBI as tools against political opponents by means of preparing fabricated statements." West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was quick to endorse the Andhra government's decision. "Chandrababu Naidu has done the right thing in saying he wouldn`t allow CBI in his state. The BJP can be 'note changer', but it's not a game changer," she said.

Andhra government withdraws consent for CBI jurisdiction in state

TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties to take on BJP in the Lok Sabha elections next year, will meet former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy here on Thursday.

Naidu will meet Gowda at his residence at Padmanabha Nagar and Kumaraswamy would also bepresent during the meeting, JD(S) said on Wednesday.

Interestingly, Naidu's meeting with the JD(S) supremo comes in the backdrop of Congress-JD(S) coalition resolving to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections together against the BJP, buoyed by the victory in the bypolls.

The Congress-JD(S)coalition in Karnataka on Tuesday won two of the three Lok Sabha seats and both assembly constituencies in the fiercely fought by-polls, giving a shot in the arm to the ruling combine that faces frequent questions about its longevity.

BJP had managed to hold on to the Shivamogga Lok Sabha seat.

The electoral sweep by the ruling coalition comes as a boost to it as the by-polls were seen as a barometer of the public mood ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Naidu had called his Karnataka counterpart over phone on Tuesday and congratulated the latter on the JD(S)-Congress combine's "spectacular victory" in the by-elections.

JD(S) MLC Sharavana said Naidu's meeting with Gowda is in continuation of the discussions the Andhra Chief Minister was holding with "secular" party leaders across the country.

"The bypolls results that have come is a good development as people of state have understood the need for secular forces. He (Naidu) is expected to seek Deve Gowda's cooperation," he added.

Naidu had also recently met NCP chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, among others.&nbsp;

TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties to take on BJP in the Lok Sabha elections next year, will meet former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy here on Thursday.

TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties to take on BJP in the Lok Sabha elections next year, will meet former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy here on Thursday. Naidu will meet Gowda at his residence at Padmanabha Nagar and Kumaraswamy would also bepresent during the meeting, JD(S) said on Wednesday. Interestingly, Naidu's meeting with the JD(S) supremo comes in the backdrop of Congress-JD(S) coalition resolving to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections together against the BJP, buoyed by the victory in the bypolls. The Congress-JD(S)coalition in Karnataka on Tuesday won two of the three Lok Sabha seats and both assembly constituencies in the fiercely fought by-polls, giving a shot in the arm to the ruling combine that faces frequent questions about its longevity. BJP had managed to hold on to the Shivamogga Lok Sabha seat. The electoral sweep by the ruling coalition comes as a boost to it as the by-polls were seen as a barometer of the public mood ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Naidu had called his Karnataka counterpart over phone on Tuesday and congratulated the latter on the JD(S)-Congress combine's "spectacular victory" in the by-elections. JD(S) MLC Sharavana said Naidu's meeting with Gowda is in continuation of the discussions the Andhra Chief Minister was holding with "secular" party leaders across the country. "The bypolls results that have come is a good development as people of state have understood the need for secular forces. He (Naidu) is expected to seek Deve Gowda's cooperation," he added. Naidu had also recently met NCP chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, among others.

Chandrababu Naidu to meet Deve Gowda today

Janata Dal (Secular) chief and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda of Thursday slammed BJP government for creating many problems "including destabilising constitutionally created institutes," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

He added that secular parties, including the Congress, must come together to replace the NDA government.&nbsp;

Gowda's comments came shortly after a meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu earlier in the day.

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AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu has taken the lead and met several leaders to consolidate all secular parties to remove NDA govt in 2019. He met me &amp; HD Kumaraswamy today to work out further strategy: JDS leader &amp; Former PM Deve Gowda <a href="https://t.co/ujOUK0f7L2">pic.twitter.com/ujOUK0f7L2</a>
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"Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu has taken the lead and met several leaders to consolidate all secular parties to remove NDA government in 2019. He met me and HD Kumaraswamy today to work out further strategy," Gowda noted.&nbsp;

TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties to take on BJP in the Lok Sabha elections next year, met former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Thursday.

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1060491916456927232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Interestingly, Naidu's meeting with the JD(S) supremo comes in the backdrop of Congress-JD(S) coalition resolving to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections together against the BJP, buoyed by the victory in the bypolls.

The Congress-JD(S)coalition in Karnataka on Tuesday won two of the three Lok Sabha seats and both assembly constituencies in the fiercely fought by-polls, giving a shot in the arm to the ruling combine that faces frequent questions about its longevity.

BJP had managed to hold on to the Shivamogga Lok Sabha seat.

The electoral sweep by the ruling coalition comes as a boost to it as the by-polls were seen as a barometer of the public mood ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Janata Dal (Secular) chief and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda of Thursday slammed BJP government for creating many problems "including destabilising constitutionally created institutes," news agency ANI reported.

Janata Dal (Secular) chief and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda of Thursday slammed BJP government for creating many problems "including destabilising constitutionally created institutes," news agency ANI reported. He added that secular parties, including the Congress, must come together to replace the NDA government. Gowda's comments came shortly after a meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu earlier in the day. AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu has taken the lead and met several leaders to consolidate all secular parties to remove NDA govt in 2019. He met me & HD Kumaraswamy today to work out further strategy: JDS leader & Former PM Deve Gowda pic.twitter.com/ujOUK0f7L2 — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2018 × "Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu has taken the lead and met several leaders to consolidate all secular parties to remove NDA government in 2019. He met me and HD Kumaraswamy today to work out further strategy," Gowda noted. TDP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying to unite opposition parties to take on BJP in the Lok Sabha elections next year, met former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Thursday. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu meets former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy in Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/HCrWHB41BH — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2018 × Interestingly, Naidu's meeting with the JD(S) supremo comes in the backdrop of Congress-JD(S) coalition resolving to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections together against the BJP, buoyed by the victory in the bypolls. The Congress-JD(S)coalition in Karnataka on Tuesday won two of the three Lok Sabha seats and both assembly constituencies in the fiercely fought by-polls, giving a shot in the arm to the ruling combine that faces frequent questions about its longevity. BJP had managed to hold on to the Shivamogga Lok Sabha seat. The electoral sweep by the ruling coalition comes as a boost to it as the by-polls were seen as a barometer of the public mood ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Secular parties, including Congress, must come together to remove BJP: Deve Gowda

In an effort&nbsp;to build a strong opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Thursday.

In his second visit to the Capital in less than a week, Naidu will call on Gandhi as part of his efforts to bring all opposition parties on a common platform.

Addressing a party programme in Amaravati on Wednesday night, Naidu said he would meet Gandhi in the national capital on Thursday.

This will be Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief`s first meeting with Congress president, though the two had shared dais at the swearing-in of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy in May.

Naidu had called on Aam Admi Party leader and Delhi Chief Minister Aravind Kejriwal, Loktantrik Janata Dal chief Sharad Yadav and BSP leader Mayawati on Saturday.

He is likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar and leaders of the Left parties on Thursday.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said he was trying to bring all like-minded opposition parties together to form an alliance as an alternative to BJP.

In an effort to build a strong opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Thursday.

In an effort to build a strong opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Thursday. In his second visit to the Capital in less than a week, Naidu will call on Gandhi as part of his efforts to bring all opposition parties on a common platform. Addressing a party programme in Amaravati on Wednesday night, Naidu said he would meet Gandhi in the national capital on Thursday. This will be Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief`s first meeting with Congress president, though the two had shared dais at the swearing-in of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy in May. Naidu had called on Aam Admi Party leader and Delhi Chief Minister Aravind Kejriwal, Loktantrik Janata Dal chief Sharad Yadav and BSP leader Mayawati on Saturday. He is likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar and leaders of the Left parties on Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said he was trying to bring all like-minded opposition parties together to form an alliance as an alternative to BJP.

Chandrababu Naidu to discuss opposition unity with Rahul today

Opposition parties will work together to defeat the BJP to defend India, its institutions and the democracy, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said after meeting the TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu.

Naidu is trying to unite opposition parties to take on the saffron party in the Lok Sabha elections next year.

Gandhi in the presence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Naidu said both of them have decided "not to get into the past" but talk about the present and the future as it is "critical" for the country.

The TDP had earlier criticised the Congress on the bifurcation of the state.&nbsp;

Asserting that there is a need to save the nation and the democracy, Naidu said he discussed this will the Congress president and they have agreed to it in-principle.

Gandhi tweeted,"I had a good meeting today with Shri Chandrababu Naidu. Amongst other things, we discussed the issue of opposition unity. I look forward to carrying forward our dialogue and to working together in the upcoming state &amp; general elections".

Before that, he told reporters, "We are working together, we are going to work together. All Opposition forces are going to work together to defend India, our institutions and our democracy.

"We have had a past. Both of us have agreed we are not going to get into the past. We are going to talk about the present and future because it is critical for our country," Gandhi told reporters.

He said because of the situation in the country, "let all opposition forces come together and provide a vision."

Asked who is going to be the face for an Opposition alliance, Gandhi said both the leaders have agreed that the principle idea is to defeat the BJP and defend democracy and institutions of this country. "All other ideas, we will discuss later," he said, adding,"Everyone is going to work together".

He further said, "Your interest is in sensationalism but we have to work together to deliver people's aspirations."

He said the primary challenge before all the opposition forces is to work together and defend India's institutions and democracy.

"Everything else is secondary. We will do what is our primary challenge," he said.&nbsp;

On the Rafale deal, the Congress chief said "it is very clear that corruption has taken place and there is no doubt in it."

"Institutions that are investigating the Rafale deal are attacked and threatened. That is what exactly we are defending," he said.

"If there is proper enquiry, it will become very clear exactly what happened, where money went and who did the corruption. Something that I am pushing aggressively because I believe nation needs to know,. This sentiment is shared by all Opposition parties," he added.

Naidu's meeting with Gandhi comes amid seat-sharing talks between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections in Telangana.

Earlier in the day, Naidu met NCP chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah here.

Naidu asserted that there is a need today to save this nation and democracy. "That's why I discussed with Rahulji also. In-principally we have agreed," he said.

"Some of you have doubt about our past. It is a democratic compulsion now, we are joining together to protect this country.

"The main opposition leaders has responsibility to discharge. That's why we are joining together. Not only two parties, those opposing BJP we want to bring them to a common platform. We want to chalk out a common programme for future," he said.

The TDP chief claimed he never had seen this type of attack on institutions like CBI, RBI, ED and IT in his political career of 40 years.

"I have asked Rahulji to discuss in the party and proposed all political meeting to chalk out a programme for future," he said.

Asked about face of an alliance, Naidu said, "you are interested in candidate, we are interested in the nation. Remove that in your mind. You also think first about the nation."

"It is a reality you have to understand that Congress is a main opposition party. All other parties are necessary. So, we will work on these things. Our main motive is save nation," he added.&nbsp;

Opposition parties will work together to defeat the BJP to defend India, its institutions and the democracy, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said after meeting the TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu.

Opposition parties will work together to defeat the BJP to defend India, its institutions and the democracy, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said after meeting the TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. Naidu is trying to unite opposition parties to take on the saffron party in the Lok Sabha elections next year. Gandhi in the presence of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Naidu said both of them have decided "not to get into the past" but talk about the present and the future as it is "critical" for the country. The TDP had earlier criticised the Congress on the bifurcation of the state. Asserting that there is a need to save the nation and the democracy, Naidu said he discussed this will the Congress president and they have agreed to it in-principle. Gandhi tweeted,"I had a good meeting today with Shri Chandrababu Naidu. Amongst other things, we discussed the issue of opposition unity. I look forward to carrying forward our dialogue and to working together in the upcoming state & general elections". Before that, he told reporters, "We are working together, we are going to work together. All Opposition forces are going to work together to defend India, our institutions and our democracy. "We have had a past. Both of us have agreed we are not going to get into the past. We are going to talk about the present and future because it is critical for our country," Gandhi told reporters. He said because of the situation in the country, "let all opposition forces come together and provide a vision." Asked who is going to be the face for an Opposition alliance, Gandhi said both the leaders have agreed that the principle idea is to defeat the BJP and defend democracy and institutions of this country. "All other ideas, we will discuss later," he said, adding,"Everyone is going to work together". He further said, "Your interest is in sensationalism but we have to work together to deliver people's aspirations." He said the primary challenge before all the opposition forces is to work together and defend India's institutions and democracy. "Everything else is secondary. We will do what is our primary challenge," he said. On the Rafale deal, the Congress chief said "it is very clear that corruption has taken place and there is no doubt in it." "Institutions that are investigating the Rafale deal are attacked and threatened. That is what exactly we are defending," he said. "If there is proper enquiry, it will become very clear exactly what happened, where money went and who did the corruption. Something that I am pushing aggressively because I believe nation needs to know,. This sentiment is shared by all Opposition parties," he added. Naidu's meeting with Gandhi comes amid seat-sharing talks between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections in Telangana. Earlier in the day, Naidu met NCP chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah here. Naidu asserted that there is a need today to save this nation and democracy. "That's why I discussed with Rahulji also. In-principally we have agreed," he said. "Some of you have doubt about our past. It is a democratic compulsion now, we are joining together to protect this country. "The main opposition leaders has responsibility to discharge. That's why we are joining together. Not only two parties, those opposing BJP we want to bring them to a common platform. We want to chalk out a common programme for future," he said. The TDP chief claimed he never had seen this type of attack on institutions like CBI, RBI, ED and IT in his political career of 40 years. "I have asked Rahulji to discuss in the party and proposed all political meeting to chalk out a programme for future," he said. Asked about face of an alliance, Naidu said, "you are interested in candidate, we are interested in the nation. Remove that in your mind. You also think first about the nation." "It is a reality you have to understand that Congress is a main opposition party. All other parties are necessary. So, we will work on these things. Our main motive is save nation," he added.

Will work together to defeat BJP: Rahul Gandhi after meeting TDP chief Naidu

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The outcry in the United States demonising Saudi Arabia over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul threatens US-Saudi strategic ties, the former Saudi intelligence minister warned on Wednesday.

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US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tdp-chief-chandrababu-naidu-to-discuss-opposition-unity-with-rahul-today-174752">TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu to discuss opposition unity with Rahul Gandhi today</a>

In an effort&nbsp;to build a strong opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Thursday.

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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said on Monday that Ecuador is seeking to end his asylum in its London embassy and hand him over to the United States, but a judge rejected his lawsuit over embassy living conditions.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-does-not-feel-betrayed-by-saudis-174753">US President Donald Trump says he does not feel betrayed by Saudis</a>

Both Republican and Democratic senators asked US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (October 31) to suspend civilian nuclear energy talks with Saudi Arabia after the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Khashoggi murder outcry threatens US-Saudi ties, Saudi prince says The outcry in the United States demonising Saudi Arabia over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul threatens US-Saudi strategic ties, the former Saudi intelligence minister warned on Wednesday.

Khashoggi murder outcry threatens US-Saudi ties, Saudi prince says The outcry in the United States demonising Saudi Arabia over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul threatens US-Saudi strategic ties, the former Saudi intelligence minister warned on Wednesday. US doesn't want to harm friends, allies with Iran sanctions: John Bolton US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil. TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu to discuss opposition unity with Rahul Gandhi today In an effort to build a strong opposition alliance to take on the BJP in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu will meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Thursday. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange says Ecuador seeking to end his asylum WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said on Monday that Ecuador is seeking to end his asylum in its London embassy and hand him over to the United States, but a judge rejected his lawsuit over embassy living conditions. US President Donald Trump says he does not feel betrayed by Saudis Both Republican and Democratic senators asked US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (October 31) to suspend civilian nuclear energy talks with Saudi Arabia after the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Underlining the losses suffered by Andhra Pradesh due to the bifurcation, Chief Minister N&nbsp;Chandrababu Naidu has sought an assistance of Rs 1,09,023 crores for development of infrastructure in the state.

In a meeting with the members of the 15th Finance Commission, the Chief Minister presented a report before the panel, asking for the amount.

He said that the central government had promised to allot Rs 2,500 crores, but released only Rs 1,500 crores for infrastructure development so far. 
 
Naidu also made appeals to the Finance Commission to accord Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh, consider population as per 1971 census, and continue revenue deficit grants, disaster relief for crop failures.

The Chief Minister also appealed to allot Rs 22,250 crore for backward regions development in the state and sought allotment of Rs 10,000 crores for development of ports, airports, and roads in Andhra Pradesh.

Describing the country as a "victim of the century", Naidu said that the Centre failed to fulfill the assurances made during the state bifurcation.

He said that though the state is ahead in several sectors, it is lagging behind in per capita income on par with the neighbouring states.

The Chief Minister also said that his government opted for convergence of technology to the maximum level to establish most liveable standards and ease of living in the state. He affirmed that Amaravati would be developed as "hub of artificial intelligence."

Praising the Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government, fifteenth Finance Commission chairman NK Singh described the Chief Minister as the original CEO who has developed the state in all sectors.

He also assured him positive help and said that the state should grow together.

The 15th Finance Commission, led by chairman NK Singh and also comprising of former economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das, Anoop Singh, Ashok

Lahiri, Ramesh Chand, secretary Arvind Mehta, Joint secretary Mukhmeet Singh Bhatia, Joint secretary Ravi Kota, Economic advisor Antony Cyriac and other officials, visited the secretariat on Thursday to hear the appeals of the state government.

Minister for Finance Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Puneta, Finance Secretary Ravichandran, Chief Minister's Special Chief Secretary Satish Chandra and others were also present in the meeting.&nbsp;

Underlining the losses suffered by Andhra Pradesh due to the bifurcation, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has sought an assistance of Rs 1,09,023 crores for development of infrastructure in the state.

Underlining the losses suffered by Andhra Pradesh due to the bifurcation, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has sought an assistance of Rs 1,09,023 crores for development of infrastructure in the state. In a meeting with the members of the 15th Finance Commission, the Chief Minister presented a report before the panel, asking for the amount. He said that the central government had promised to allot Rs 2,500 crores, but released only Rs 1,500 crores for infrastructure development so far. Naidu also made appeals to the Finance Commission to accord Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh, consider population as per 1971 census, and continue revenue deficit grants, disaster relief for crop failures. The Chief Minister also appealed to allot Rs 22,250 crore for backward regions development in the state and sought allotment of Rs 10,000 crores for development of ports, airports, and roads in Andhra Pradesh. Describing the country as a "victim of the century", Naidu said that the Centre failed to fulfill the assurances made during the state bifurcation. He said that though the state is ahead in several sectors, it is lagging behind in per capita income on par with the neighbouring states. The Chief Minister also said that his government opted for convergence of technology to the maximum level to establish most liveable standards and ease of living in the state. He affirmed that Amaravati would be developed as "hub of artificial intelligence." Praising the Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government, fifteenth Finance Commission chairman NK Singh described the Chief Minister as the original CEO who has developed the state in all sectors. He also assured him positive help and said that the state should grow together. The 15th Finance Commission, led by chairman NK Singh and also comprising of former economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das, Anoop Singh, Ashok Lahiri, Ramesh Chand, secretary Arvind Mehta, Joint secretary Mukhmeet Singh Bhatia, Joint secretary Ravi Kota, Economic advisor Antony Cyriac and other officials, visited the secretariat on Thursday to hear the appeals of the state government. Minister for Finance Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Puneta, Finance Secretary Ravichandran, Chief Minister's Special Chief Secretary Satish Chandra and others were also present in the meeting.

Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu seeks central assistance of Rs 1 lakh crore for state

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) working president M.K. Stalin and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday expressed their concerns on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's health and wished him a speedy recovery.

On Monday, Vajpayee was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and is currently undergoing treatment.

Taking to Twitter, Stalin said that he was saddened to hear Vajpayee's health and wished him a speedy and full recovery.

"I was saddened to hear about former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji being admitted to AIIMS. On behalf of DMK President Thalaivar Kalaignar and DMK party, I wish Vajpayeeji a speedy and full recovery back to normal health," Stalin wrote on the micro-blogging site.

Naidu also inquired on Vajpayee's health and prayed for a speedy recovery.

"I spoke to the officers in Delhi on the health of Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Praying to God for his speedy recovery and his return to home with good health," Naidu tweeted.

Earlier today, AIIMS said that Vajpayee's condition was stable and is responding well to the treatment.

Dr. (Professor) Aarti Vij said in a statement, "Former Prime Minister Vajpayee's condition is stable. He is responding to treatment and is on injectable antibiotics. All vital parameters are stable. He will continue to be in hospital till infection is controlled."

Many political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi, visited the ailing former prime minister at AIIMS.

The 93-year-old Vajpayee was the first ever person from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to have become the nation's prime minister.

Vajpayee was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and is currently undergoing treatment

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) working president M.K. Stalin and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday expressed their concerns on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's health and wished him a speedy recovery. On Monday, Vajpayee was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and is currently undergoing treatment. Taking to Twitter, Stalin said that he was saddened to hear Vajpayee's health and wished him a speedy and full recovery. "I was saddened to hear about former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji being admitted to AIIMS. On behalf of DMK President Thalaivar Kalaignar and DMK party, I wish Vajpayeeji a speedy and full recovery back to normal health," Stalin wrote on the micro-blogging site. Naidu also inquired on Vajpayee's health and prayed for a speedy recovery. "I spoke to the officers in Delhi on the health of Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Praying to God for his speedy recovery and his return to home with good health," Naidu tweeted. Earlier today, AIIMS said that Vajpayee's condition was stable and is responding well to the treatment. Dr. (Professor) Aarti Vij said in a statement, "Former Prime Minister Vajpayee's condition is stable. He is responding to treatment and is on injectable antibiotics. All vital parameters are stable. He will continue to be in hospital till infection is controlled." Many political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi, visited the ailing former prime minister at AIIMS. The 93-year-old Vajpayee was the first ever person from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to have become the nation's prime minister.

Stalin, Naidu wish speedy recovery of ex-PM Vajpayee

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said on Sunday that all regional parties were coming together to defeat the BJP which would "taste defeat" in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

"In 2019, the regional parties will be king-makers. All regional parties are coming together to defeat BJP. In upcoming Lok Sabha elections, BJP will taste defeat," Chandrababu Naidu, who withdrew from the NDA alliance in March said.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister also criticised the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government over the demonetisation&nbsp 
of high-value currency notes in 2016, stating that it had led to a never-seen-before shortage of currency.

"I supported demonetization. I thought it would be good for the economy. But because of centre, banks are going insolvent. People have lost faith in the banking system. We have never seen such shortage of currency," Chandrababu Naidu said.

Chandrababu Naidu said his party played a key role in forming governments in the past and had the power to change the political narrative in the country, hinting that it would tie-up with like-minded parties to stop the BJP's juggernaut in 2019.&nbsp

"The Congress is in the opposition. It cannot do much. But the BJP will definitely not come to power in 2019," the Andhra Pradesh chief minister said while inaugurating the TDP's annual conclave Mahanadu in Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada.

Calling PM Modi a "campaign PM" who has "failed to deliver on promises", Chandrababu Naidu said that the BJP coming to power in 2019 was a "distant dream".

The party president said the TDP was key in forming the United Front government in 1996.

"The TDP has in the past played a key role in forming governments. It has the power to change the political narrative in the country. We won't step back," Naidu said.

He said the TDP withdrew support from the NDA government as the Centre had reneged on its promise to grant Andhra Pradesh Special Category status and to implement the AP Reorganisation Act.&nbsp

Naidu accused the BJP of betraying the people of Andhra Pradesh and trying to create law and order problems in the state in collusion with the YSRCP.&nbsp

Andhra Pradesh has been seeking special category status on the grounds that it is at a disadvantage, especially because of the loss of capital Hyderabad to Telangana.&nbsp

When erstwhile Andhra Pradesh was being bifurcated in 2014, then prime minister Manmohan Singh, during a discussion on the AP Reorganisation Bill, had said, "Special category status will be extended to the successor state of Andhra Pradesh for a period of five years.

But the BJP, which came to power at the Centre a few months later, has been saying that the 14th Finance Commission does not provide for such treatment to Andhra Pradesh.

The TDP had in March withdrawn support from the NDA government over the Centre's refusal to grant special category status to the state.&nbsp

Naidu and his party have in the past accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of reneging on his election promise made in 2014 to accord special category status to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said that all regional parties were coming together to defeat the BJP

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said on Sunday that all regional parties were coming together to defeat the BJP which would "taste defeat" in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. "In 2019, the regional parties will be king-makers. All regional parties are coming together to defeat BJP. In upcoming Lok Sabha elections, BJP will taste defeat," Chandrababu Naidu, who withdrew from the NDA alliance in March said. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister also criticised the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government over the demonetisation of high-value currency notes in 2016, stating that it had led to a never-seen-before shortage of currency. "I supported demonetization. I thought it would be good for the economy. But because of centre, banks are going insolvent. People have lost faith in the banking system. We have never seen such shortage of currency," Chandrababu Naidu said. Chandrababu Naidu said his party played a key role in forming governments in the past and had the power to change the political narrative in the country, hinting that it would tie-up with like-minded parties to stop the BJP's juggernaut in 2019. "The Congress is in the opposition. It cannot do much. But the BJP will definitely not come to power in 2019," the Andhra Pradesh chief minister said while inaugurating the TDP's annual conclave Mahanadu in Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada. Calling PM Modi a "campaign PM" who has "failed to deliver on promises", Chandrababu Naidu said that the BJP coming to power in 2019 was a "distant dream". The party president said the TDP was key in forming the United Front government in 1996. "The TDP has in the past played a key role in forming governments. It has the power to change the political narrative in the country. We won't step back," Naidu said. He said the TDP withdrew support from the NDA government as the Centre had reneged on its promise to grant Andhra Pradesh Special Category status and to implement the AP Reorganisation Act. Naidu accused the BJP of betraying the people of Andhra Pradesh and trying to create law and order problems in the state in collusion with the YSRCP. Andhra Pradesh has been seeking special category status on the grounds that it is at a disadvantage, especially because of the loss of capital Hyderabad to Telangana. When erstwhile Andhra Pradesh was being bifurcated in 2014, then prime minister Manmohan Singh, during a discussion on the AP Reorganisation Bill, had said, "Special category status will be extended to the successor state of Andhra Pradesh for a period of five years. But the BJP, which came to power at the Centre a few months later, has been saying that the 14th Finance Commission does not provide for such treatment to Andhra Pradesh. The TDP had in March withdrawn support from the NDA government over the Centre's refusal to grant special category status to the state. Naidu and his party have in the past accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of reneging on his election promise made in 2014 to accord special category status to Andhra Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP will taste defeat in 2019 elections: Chandrababu Naidu

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

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

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

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

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday hit out at the Congress party and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over their lack of support for the Special Category Status (SCS) to the state - an assurance that was given in the Rajya Sabha at the time of bifurcation in 2014.

Speaking to the media after ending his 12-hour fast over `Centre`s non-cooperation with the state` in Vijayawada, Naidu said, "Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated by Congress and the BJP with an understanding. Congress did not give any assurances to the state. Then, in Rajya Sabha, the special status was announced. That was not asked by us," he added.

The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister maintained that he would have the responsibility of developing the state and demanded equal justice to both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Asserting that he had joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for state`s interests, Naidu added, "We are never power greedy. During (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee`s rule, we did not take any ministerial berths. National politics are not new to Telugu Desam Party (TDP). I went along with BJP with the only thought of state interests."Sensing conspiracy by the BJP on not giving special status, he continued, "What Modi ji told in Tirupati and what he fulfilled? I am asking today the central government on behalf of five crores people of Andhra, to fulfill the promises given in parliament. Nothing more than that."

"What you have told on the special status? Each year you spoke of some election or some other reason. Centre said special status will not be given to anybody. But after giving special status to 11 states, even now, then why not for Andhra?" he questioned.

Naidu further said that the Centre was trying to take Andhra into their hold, similar to what they did with Tamil Nadu.

Slamming the BJP for not supporting the special status to the southern state, he said, "Prakash Javadekar said that we cooperated to Andhra Pradesh as we thought the TDP will continue with us. Had we known earlier that TDP quit NDA, we would not have cooperated. Even now we have never compromised on the development of the state."

"The opposition parties had questioned us many things. I have never compromised. I played soft with the Centre for state interests. But when the right time came, we took stubborn decisions. You asked us to get our ministers resigned and put no-confidence motion. I did all those things at a correct and appropriate time. Then why you are not coming together with us. After all these, I took up this hunger strike. Why did not you turn up?", Naidu added, continuing his tirade against the BJP and the Congress party.

The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister threatened to "take action" and not "spare" anyone if the Centre continued to think beyond the state`s interests.

Many parties like the Samara Party, Nava Samaj Party, Lok Satta, Aam Aadmi Party, Revolutionary Socialist Party, and All India Forward Bloc extended their support to Naidu over the special status.

Pratyeka Hoda Sadhana Samiti (Association for Special Status) convenor Chalasani Srinivas appealed to Naidu to take up indefinite hunger strike in the national capital. He also suggested all the parties in Andhra Pradesh to unite to fight for special status and other promises made by the Centre.Naidu has been calling for the SCS to Andhra Pradesh.

Asserting his demand, the TDP had quit the BJP-led NDA alliance last month.

The SCS was first accorded in 1969 to Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Nagaland. Over the years, eight more states were added to the list - Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and, finally, in 2010, Uttarakhand.&nbsp

Speaking to the media after ending his 12-hour fast over `Centre`s non-cooperation with the state` in Vijayawada, Naidu said, 'Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated by Congress and the BJP with an understanding. Congress did not give any assurances to the state. Then, in Rajya Sabha, the special status was announced. That was not asked by us,' he added.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday hit out at the Congress party and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over their lack of support for the Special Category Status (SCS) to the state - an assurance that was given in the Rajya Sabha at the time of bifurcation in 2014. Speaking to the media after ending his 12-hour fast over `Centre`s non-cooperation with the state` in Vijayawada, Naidu said, "Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated by Congress and the BJP with an understanding. Congress did not give any assurances to the state. Then, in Rajya Sabha, the special status was announced. That was not asked by us," he added. The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister maintained that he would have the responsibility of developing the state and demanded equal justice to both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Asserting that he had joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for state`s interests, Naidu added, "We are never power greedy. During (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee`s rule, we did not take any ministerial berths. National politics are not new to Telugu Desam Party (TDP). I went along with BJP with the only thought of state interests."Sensing conspiracy by the BJP on not giving special status, he continued, "What Modi ji told in Tirupati and what he fulfilled? I am asking today the central government on behalf of five crores people of Andhra, to fulfill the promises given in parliament. Nothing more than that." "What you have told on the special status? Each year you spoke of some election or some other reason. Centre said special status will not be given to anybody. But after giving special status to 11 states, even now, then why not for Andhra?" he questioned. Naidu further said that the Centre was trying to take Andhra into their hold, similar to what they did with Tamil Nadu. Slamming the BJP for not supporting the special status to the southern state, he said, "Prakash Javadekar said that we cooperated to Andhra Pradesh as we thought the TDP will continue with us. Had we known earlier that TDP quit NDA, we would not have cooperated. Even now we have never compromised on the development of the state." "The opposition parties had questioned us many things. I have never compromised. I played soft with the Centre for state interests. But when the right time came, we took stubborn decisions. You asked us to get our ministers resigned and put no-confidence motion. I did all those things at a correct and appropriate time. Then why you are not coming together with us. After all these, I took up this hunger strike. Why did not you turn up?", Naidu added, continuing his tirade against the BJP and the Congress party. The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister threatened to "take action" and not "spare" anyone if the Centre continued to think beyond the state`s interests. Many parties like the Samara Party, Nava Samaj Party, Lok Satta, Aam Aadmi Party, Revolutionary Socialist Party, and All India Forward Bloc extended their support to Naidu over the special status. Pratyeka Hoda Sadhana Samiti (Association for Special Status) convenor Chalasani Srinivas appealed to Naidu to take up indefinite hunger strike in the national capital. He also suggested all the parties in Andhra Pradesh to unite to fight for special status and other promises made by the Centre.Naidu has been calling for the SCS to Andhra Pradesh. Asserting his demand, the TDP had quit the BJP-led NDA alliance last month. The SCS was first accorded in 1969 to Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Nagaland. Over the years, eight more states were added to the list - Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and, finally, in 2010, Uttarakhand.

No support from Congress, BJP on special status to Andhra: CM Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu began his day-long fast here on Friday to demand Special Category Status (SCS) to the state.&nbsp;

Incidentally, April 20 also happens to be the Telugu Desam Party chief’s birthday.

Naidu's hunger strike at Vijayawada's Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation Stadium started at 7 am and will end at 7 pm to pressurise the Centre to grant the SCS to Andhra Pradesh.

The strategy for the hunger strike was finalised by the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Naidu, on Monday.

Thirteen ministers of Naidu’s cabinet will also organise simultaneous hunger strikes in the districts for which they are in-charge ministers. Remaining ministers will take part in the hunger strike along with the Chief Minister.

The Andhra Pradesh politicians have been protesting demanding SCS to Andhra Pradesh.

The Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Centre have been at the loggerheads ever since the announcement of 2018-19 Union Budget.

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Vijayawada: CM Chandrababu Naidu on a one-day hunger strike against 'Centre's non-cooperation with the state' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraPradesh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraPradesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpecialStatus?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpecialStatus</a> <a href="https://t.co/xMKIP4y8bP">pic.twitter.com/xMKIP4y8bP</a>
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The TDP alleged that the Centre ignored the demand of ‘Special Category Status’ to Andhra Pradesh in the budget, while the latter brushed aside the charges.

Naidu has been calling for the special category status to Andhra Pradesh. Asserting his demand, the TDP had quit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) last month.

The TDP’s departure came after two of its ministers resigned from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi Cabinet on March 8.

The Centre pays 90 per cent of the funds required in a centrally-sponsored scheme to special category status category states as against 60 per cent in case of normal category states, while the remaining funds are provided by the state governments.

The SCS was first accorded in 1969 to Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Nagaland. Over the years, eight more states were added to the list – Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and, finally, in 2010, Uttarakhand.

Chandrababu Naidu has also reportedly asked his Cabinet colleagues, party cadres and legislators to join him in the day long hunger strike to protest the ‘injustice’ meted out to by the Centre over its failure to grant the special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu began his day-long fast here on Friday to demand Special Category Status (SCS) to the state. Incidentally, April 20 also happens to be the Telugu Desam Party chief’s birthday. Naidu's hunger strike at Vijayawada's Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation Stadium started at 7 am and will end at 7 pm to pressurise the Centre to grant the SCS to Andhra Pradesh. The strategy for the hunger strike was finalised by the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Naidu, on Monday. Thirteen ministers of Naidu’s cabinet will also organise simultaneous hunger strikes in the districts for which they are in-charge ministers. Remaining ministers will take part in the hunger strike along with the Chief Minister. The Andhra Pradesh politicians have been protesting demanding SCS to Andhra Pradesh. The Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Centre have been at the loggerheads ever since the announcement of 2018-19 Union Budget. Vijayawada: CM Chandrababu Naidu on a one-day hunger strike against 'Centre's non-cooperation with the state' #AndhraPradesh #SpecialStatus pic.twitter.com/xMKIP4y8bP — ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2018 × The TDP alleged that the Centre ignored the demand of ‘Special Category Status’ to Andhra Pradesh in the budget, while the latter brushed aside the charges. Naidu has been calling for the special category status to Andhra Pradesh. Asserting his demand, the TDP had quit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) last month. The TDP’s departure came after two of its ministers resigned from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi Cabinet on March 8. The Centre pays 90 per cent of the funds required in a centrally-sponsored scheme to special category status category states as against 60 per cent in case of normal category states, while the remaining funds are provided by the state governments. The SCS was first accorded in 1969 to Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Nagaland. Over the years, eight more states were added to the list – Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and, finally, in 2010, Uttarakhand.

Andhra Pradesh special status: CM N Chandrababu Naidu on day-long hunger strike

YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday referred the hunger strike called by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu against the Centre’s non-cooperation as a mean to cheat the people of the state.

Speaking to ANI, the YSRCP chief said that it would have been better if the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief would have asked his MPs to go on strike with the YSRCP one’s to push the Center for the Special Category Status (SCS).

“He is cheating people again. What happened when all YSRCP MPs resigned and went on hunger strike? If he would’ve gotten his MPs to do the same then, it would’ve created national buzz and the Centre would’ve given special status to the state,” Reddy said.&nbsp;

Naidu earlier announced that he will sit on a one-day hunger strike against the Centre’s non-cooperation of the state on April 20. The Andhra Pradesh politicians have been protesting demanding Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh, which was promised by the Center during the bifurcation of the state in 2014.

Naidu earlier announced that he will sit on a one-day hunger strike against the Centre’s non-cooperation of the state on April 20.

YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday referred the hunger strike called by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu against the Centre’s non-cooperation as a mean to cheat the people of the state. Speaking to ANI, the YSRCP chief said that it would have been better if the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief would have asked his MPs to go on strike with the YSRCP one’s to push the Center for the Special Category Status (SCS). “He is cheating people again. What happened when all YSRCP MPs resigned and went on hunger strike? If he would’ve gotten his MPs to do the same then, it would’ve created national buzz and the Centre would’ve given special status to the state,” Reddy said. Naidu earlier announced that he will sit on a one-day hunger strike against the Centre’s non-cooperation of the state on April 20. The Andhra Pradesh politicians have been protesting demanding Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh, which was promised by the Center during the bifurcation of the state in 2014.

Chandrababu Naidu cheating people by going on hunger strike, says YSR Congress chief Jagan Mohan Reddy

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu will sit on a day-long hunger strike on April 20 for the&nbsp;demand of Special status for their state.

The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/snap-ties-with-tdp-if-required-andhra-pradesh-bjp-to-central-leadership-33432">conflict between the BJP and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP </a>) began after the centre&nbsp;failed to fulfil Karnataka's demand of special status.

The row between the two parties also led to the exit of TDP from NDA, the BJP led alliance.

Also, two TDP ministers Ashok Gajapathi and YS Chowdary resigned from the Modi cabinet.

Besides the resignation of the two TDP ministers from Modi cabinet, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-ysrcp-mps-to-submit-their-resignation-from-lok-sabha-to-speaker-sumitra-mahajan-today--128691">five YSRCP MPs also submitted their resignations </a>to Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on April 6.

The special status to Andhra Pradesh would give the state a central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the Centre paying the larger share.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraPradesh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraPradesh</a> Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to sit on a day long hunger strike on 20th April against Central Government over demand of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpecialStatus?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpecialStatus</a> for the state (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/fjKWOuYMbX">pic.twitter.com/fjKWOuYMbX</a>
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&nbsp;

The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government for the demand of special status to Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu will sit on a day-long hunger strike on April 20 for the demand of Special status for their state. The hunger strike will be organised against the Central government. The conflict between the BJP and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP ) began after the centre failed to fulfil Karnataka's demand of special status. The row between the two parties also led to the exit of TDP from NDA, the BJP led alliance. Also, two TDP ministers Ashok Gajapathi and YS Chowdary resigned from the Modi cabinet. Besides the resignation of the two TDP ministers from Modi cabinet, five YSRCP MPs also submitted their resignations to Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on April 6. The special status to Andhra Pradesh would give the state a central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the Centre paying the larger share. #AndhraPradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to sit on a day long hunger strike on 20th April against Central Government over demand of #SpecialStatus for the state (File pic) pic.twitter.com/fjKWOuYMbX — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2018 ×

Now, Chandrababu Naidu to sit on day-long fast on April 20

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu claimed on Saturday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had approached him for an alliance with the BJP during the 2014 general election.

The TDP chief said that he allied with the BJP for the sake of the interests of Andhra Pradesh.

"Even during the 2014 general election, we didn't try for an alliance with the BJP. Modi himself came to us, said that BJP is sympathetic towards Andhra, let us work together for the development of the state. Then only I allied with them, just for the sake of the state's interests," Chandrababu Naidu said.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said that it was only after parting ways from the BJP-led NDA alliance that the party could for the first time bring their problems to the notice of the nation.

"By standing against Narendra Modi we could, for the first time, bring our problems to the notice of the nation. The centre is going ahead with oppressive policy but they are not thinking to recognise our sentiments and resolve our problems," Chandrababu Naidu said.

The Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP had walked out of the NDA alliance over the demand for "special category status" for Andhra Pradesh.

The TDP and YSR Congress moved notices for a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha against the Narendra Modi government over not granting special category status to Andhra Pradesh. 
&nbsp

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said that it was only after parting ways from the BJP-led NDA alliance that the party could for the first time bring their problems to the notice of the nation

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu claimed on Saturday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had approached him for an alliance with the BJP during the 2014 general election. The TDP chief said that he allied with the BJP for the sake of the interests of Andhra Pradesh. "Even during the 2014 general election, we didn't try for an alliance with the BJP. Modi himself came to us, said that BJP is sympathetic towards Andhra, let us work together for the development of the state. Then only I allied with them, just for the sake of the state's interests," Chandrababu Naidu said. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister said that it was only after parting ways from the BJP-led NDA alliance that the party could for the first time bring their problems to the notice of the nation. "By standing against Narendra Modi we could, for the first time, bring our problems to the notice of the nation. The centre is going ahead with oppressive policy but they are not thinking to recognise our sentiments and resolve our problems," Chandrababu Naidu said. The Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP had walked out of the NDA alliance over the demand for "special category status" for Andhra Pradesh. The TDP and YSR Congress moved notices for a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha against the Narendra Modi government over not granting special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

PM Modi 'himself came to us' during 2014 general elections: Chandrababu Naidu

Chief minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-indulging-in-mud-slinging-damaging-my-credibility-chandrababu-naidu-128380">Chandrababu Naidu led a cycle rally </a>in Amaravati today demanding "special status" for Andhra Pradesh which has become a bone of contention between the state and Centre in the past month.

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The Telugu Desam Party(TDP) chief conducted a cycle rally to the Secretariat with several party workers joining him as the issue of "special status" to Andhra Pradesh continued to keep gather pace in the state.

Last month Naidu had pulled out his party leaders &nbsp;Ashok Gajapathi Raju who held the civil aviation cabinet post and &nbsp;Y S Chowdary who was minister of state in science and technology post while severing ties with the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre.

Several TDP members including Chandrababu Naidu have taken up the cause of "special status" in Parliament raising protests in both Houses. However, the Centre has refused to comply with TDP's protests with finance minister Jaitley rejecting the idea.

Last month Naidu had pulled out his party leaders Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Y S Chowdary from the Union cabinet.

Chief minister Chandrababu Naidu led a cycle rally in Amaravati today demanding "special status" for Andhra Pradesh which has become a bone of contention between the state and Centre in the past month. #WATCH Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu leads cycle rally to Secretariat, demanding Special Category Status for AP from Centre pic.twitter.com/wIN62FD5Hj — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 × The Telugu Desam Party(TDP) chief conducted a cycle rally to the Secretariat with several party workers joining him as the issue of "special status" to Andhra Pradesh continued to keep gather pace in the state. Last month Naidu had pulled out his party leaders Ashok Gajapathi Raju who held the civil aviation cabinet post and Y S Chowdary who was minister of state in science and technology post while severing ties with the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre. Several TDP members including Chandrababu Naidu have taken up the cause of "special status" in Parliament raising protests in both Houses. However, the Centre has refused to comply with TDP's protests with finance minister Jaitley rejecting the idea.

Watch: CM Chandrababu Naidu leads cycle rally over special status to Andhra Pradesh

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday accused the BJP of "mud-slinging" and said the Centre was trying to "damage his credibility" ever since his party began the fight for special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

However, BJP denied allegations and said that Naidu's charges were "frivolous" which no one will believe.

Speaking at a press conference here, the Andhra Pradesh chief minister demanded setting up of a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to look at the issue.

"After the state was bifurcated, we needed hand-holding and that is why we joined the NDA. We went for campaigns together and assured people that justice would be done and people voted for us," Naidu said.

"Everyone thought the BJP combination would bring betterment. Despite my 29 visits to Delhi during the last four years, nothing has happened, except minor things. Major things are left to be done," he said.

"People of Andhra Pradesh continue to feel betrayed. But why can't the present government have a review? Appoint JPC and tell them to have a look into the issue," he said.

The chief minister also played clips of Prime Minister Narendra Modi promising the special category status (SCS) to Andhra during public meetings in Nellore, Amaravati and Tirupati.&nbsp;

"During a meet in Tirupati, the PM had said that the capital city of Amravati will be better than Delhi. He even advised me to visit Kazakhstan's capital Astana to get ideas. I do not know what happened after that.

"Now when we are raising our voice, you (BJP) are harassing my government. The central government is indulging in mud-slinging and it is painful. They want to damage my credibility which was built over a period of 40 years," Naidu said.

Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had last month ended its four-year-old alliance with the BJP and walked out of the NDA, days after two of its Union ministers resigned over the Centre's refusal to grant special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

Following the move, BJP president Amit Shah had in a letter accused the TDP of being driven by political considerations and not the concern for the state.

When asked if he had reached out to Tamil Nadu chief minister E K Palaniswami, the TDP chief said, "They should support our cause as both the states share an excellent relationship".

"I did not reach out to the Tamil Nadu government. But we are sharing Krishna River water with them and have an excellent relationship. So they should offer support to our cause," he said.

Commenting on his rival YSRCP's efforts for getting the SCS for the state, Naidu said, "I am fighting the attitude of the central government. I am not talking as TDP president. Some people may adopt different strategies or have a different agenda. But I want the support of all parties".&nbsp;

Naidu also accused the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) of reversing Rs 350 crore fund as special assistance to Andhra Pradesh, without any intimation.

Chandrababu Naidu's charges frivolous: BJP

The BJP dismissed the charges of Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu against the Union government as "frivolous" and something which no one will believe, and cited a number of central projects in the state to underline its commitment to development there.

Soon after the Telugu Desam Party chief accused the Centre of "mud-slinging" and working to damage his credibility, the BJP fielded Union minister Prakash Javadekar to counter him.

Javadekar, accompanied by state BJP chief K Hari Babu and party spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member G V L Narasimha Rao, accused Naidu of "blame game".

The HRD minister cited a number of projects linked to IIT, Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy, IIIT and AIIMS, among others, besides the central work on the Polavaram project to claim that the Modi government's commitment to the state's development was firm.

He noted that party chief Amit Shah had in a letter to Naidu listed a number of projects which the Centre had granted to the state.

Asked about Naidu's charges against the Centre, he said they were frivolous. "No one will believe them."

He also termed Naidu's claim that the BJP was getting close to the YSR Congress, the TDP's main rival in the state, as "ridiculous".&nbsp;

On the Andhra Pradesh chief minister's comments that the TDP would have fared better in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections if it had not allied with the BJP, he made light of his claim, noting that Modi was a big factor then. "If there was no Modi or the BJP, where the TDP would be," he said.&nbsp;

"There should be a limit to political acrimony. He is doing politics over the matter of development. He should not go to the extent of saying that the BJP is attacking Andhra," Javadekar said.&nbsp;

The Modi government has been "magnanimous" to the state to the extent that many states have asked it why it was giving so much to one state, he said.

 
To a question about the BJP's prospects in the state if the TDP and the YSR Congress, the two parties which have moved separate notices of no-confidence motion against the Union government in the Lok Sabha, fought against it, Javadekar said the BJP on its own had fetched over 18 per cent votes in the 1998 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister demanded the setting up of a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to look into the issue

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday accused the BJP of "mud-slinging" and said the Centre was trying to "damage his credibility" ever since his party began the fight for special category status to Andhra Pradesh. However, BJP denied allegations and said that Naidu's charges were "frivolous" which no one will believe. Speaking at a press conference here, the Andhra Pradesh chief minister demanded setting up of a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to look at the issue. "After the state was bifurcated, we needed hand-holding and that is why we joined the NDA. We went for campaigns together and assured people that justice would be done and people voted for us," Naidu said. "Everyone thought the BJP combination would bring betterment. Despite my 29 visits to Delhi during the last four years, nothing has happened, except minor things. Major things are left to be done," he said. "People of Andhra Pradesh continue to feel betrayed. But why can't the present government have a review? Appoint JPC and tell them to have a look into the issue," he said. The chief minister also played clips of Prime Minister Narendra Modi promising the special category status (SCS) to Andhra during public meetings in Nellore, Amaravati and Tirupati. "During a meet in Tirupati, the PM had said that the capital city of Amravati will be better than Delhi. He even advised me to visit Kazakhstan's capital Astana to get ideas. I do not know what happened after that. "Now when we are raising our voice, you (BJP) are harassing my government. The central government is indulging in mud-slinging and it is painful. They want to damage my credibility which was built over a period of 40 years," Naidu said. Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had last month ended its four-year-old alliance with the BJP and walked out of the NDA, days after two of its Union ministers resigned over the Centre's refusal to grant special category status to Andhra Pradesh. Following the move, BJP president Amit Shah had in a letter accused the TDP of being driven by political considerations and not the concern for the state. When asked if he had reached out to Tamil Nadu chief minister E K Palaniswami, the TDP chief said, "They should support our cause as both the states share an excellent relationship". "I did not reach out to the Tamil Nadu government. But we are sharing Krishna River water with them and have an excellent relationship. So they should offer support to our cause," he said. Commenting on his rival YSRCP's efforts for getting the SCS for the state, Naidu said, "I am fighting the attitude of the central government. I am not talking as TDP president. Some people may adopt different strategies or have a different agenda. But I want the support of all parties". Naidu also accused the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) of reversing Rs 350 crore fund as special assistance to Andhra Pradesh, without any intimation. Chandrababu Naidu's charges frivolous: BJP The BJP dismissed the charges of Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu against the Union government as "frivolous" and something which no one will believe, and cited a number of central projects in the state to underline its commitment to development there. Soon after the Telugu Desam Party chief accused the Centre of "mud-slinging" and working to damage his credibility, the BJP fielded Union minister Prakash Javadekar to counter him. Javadekar, accompanied by state BJP chief K Hari Babu and party spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member G V L Narasimha Rao, accused Naidu of "blame game". The HRD minister cited a number of projects linked to IIT, Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy, IIIT and AIIMS, among others, besides the central work on the Polavaram project to claim that the Modi government's commitment to the state's development was firm. He noted that party chief Amit Shah had in a letter to Naidu listed a number of projects which the Centre had granted to the state. Asked about Naidu's charges against the Centre, he said they were frivolous. "No one will believe them." He also termed Naidu's claim that the BJP was getting close to the YSR Congress, the TDP's main rival in the state, as "ridiculous". On the Andhra Pradesh chief minister's comments that the TDP would have fared better in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections if it had not allied with the BJP, he made light of his claim, noting that Modi was a big factor then. "If there was no Modi or the BJP, where the TDP would be," he said. "There should be a limit to political acrimony. He is doing politics over the matter of development. He should not go to the extent of saying that the BJP is attacking Andhra," Javadekar said. The Modi government has been "magnanimous" to the state to the extent that many states have asked it why it was giving so much to one state, he said. To a question about the BJP's prospects in the state if the TDP and the YSR Congress, the two parties which have moved separate notices of no-confidence motion against the Union government in the Lok Sabha, fought against it, Javadekar said the BJP on its own had fetched over 18 per cent votes in the 1998 Lok Sabha polls.

NDA indulging in mud-slinging; damaging my credibility: Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday accused the BJP of cheating his state on granting special status. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief also claimed that had their party not allied with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), they would have won 15 more seats.

"Post bifurcation, we had tied up with the BJP. It was not for political gain, but solely with the intention of development. Had we not allied with the BJP, we would have won 15 more seats. They have cheated us on the special status front," Naidu said at the TDP's 37th formation day celebrations here on Thursday.

The TDP chief also accused the Centre of "spreading lies" and said benefits were being given to the North Eastern states despite the quashing of the special category status for states whereas Andhra Pradesh had not received any benefits.

"They (BJP) said the special category status is quashed. But even now, its benefits are being given to North Eastern states. Then why are they not giving it to us? It is our right. The Centre is spreading lies," he said.

The remarks come amid the tussle between the BJP and the TDP regarding the special status for Andhra Pradesh with the latter pulling out of the ruling NDA alliance at the centre recently.

The TDP and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) also wrote to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General for moving a motion on 'No-Confidence in the Council of Ministers' in the House.

On Tuesday, the YSRCP announced that their MPs would resign from Lok Sabha and asked the TDP MPs to follow the suit over the issue of special status.

(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday accused the BJP of cheating his state on granting special status

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday accused the BJP of cheating his state on granting special status. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief also claimed that had their party not allied with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), they would have won 15 more seats. "Post bifurcation, we had tied up with the BJP. It was not for political gain, but solely with the intention of development. Had we not allied with the BJP, we would have won 15 more seats. They have cheated us on the special status front," Naidu said at the TDP's 37th formation day celebrations here on Thursday. The TDP chief also accused the Centre of "spreading lies" and said benefits were being given to the North Eastern states despite the quashing of the special category status for states whereas Andhra Pradesh had not received any benefits. "They (BJP) said the special category status is quashed. But even now, its benefits are being given to North Eastern states. Then why are they not giving it to us? It is our right. The Centre is spreading lies," he said. The remarks come amid the tussle between the BJP and the TDP regarding the special status for Andhra Pradesh with the latter pulling out of the ruling NDA alliance at the centre recently. The TDP and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) also wrote to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General for moving a motion on 'No-Confidence in the Council of Ministers' in the House. On Tuesday, the YSRCP announced that their MPs would resign from Lok Sabha and asked the TDP MPs to follow the suit over the issue of special status. (With inputs from ANI)

Would've won 15 more seats without BJP alliance: Chandrababu Naidu

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