Seven persons including a joint director of the health department have died of swine flu in Chhattisgarh since the beginning of this year, the government informed the Legislative Assembly Friday.

Health Minister TS Singhdeo said joint director of health department Mahendra Janghel was among those who died of H1N1 infection.

The issue was raised by Congress' Kunwar Singh Nishad and BJP MLAs Shivratan Sharma and Ajay Chandrakar.

The MLAs claimed that at least 10 people had died of swine flu in the state in the recent weeks but no concrete action has been taken to prevent its spread and patients are being forced to go to private hospitals.

Singhdeo said huge stocks of medicines have been made available. Medicines, as well as diagnosis facilities, are being provided free in government hospitals, he said.

District surveillance teams have been formed to keep a tab on new infections, he said.

Swine flu testing facilities are available at Medical College Raipur, Microbiology Department of Jagdalpur Medical College and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur. Besides, three private pathology labs have been certified for carrying out H1N1 virus tests, he added.

Chandrakar asked whether swine flu vaccination will be administered to common people, just as it is being provided to health department workers dealing with swine flu cases.

The minister said as of now doctors, nurses and other hospital staff who are at high risk of infection will be covered under the immunisation program.&nbsp;

Seven persons including a joint director of the health department have died of swine flu in Chhattisgarh since the beginning of this year, the government informed the Legislative Assembly Friday.

Seven persons including a joint director of the health department have died of swine flu in Chhattisgarh since the beginning of this year, the government informed the Legislative Assembly Friday. Health Minister TS Singhdeo said joint director of health department Mahendra Janghel was among those who died of H1N1 infection. The issue was raised by Congress' Kunwar Singh Nishad and BJP MLAs Shivratan Sharma and Ajay Chandrakar. The MLAs claimed that at least 10 people had died of swine flu in the state in the recent weeks but no concrete action has been taken to prevent its spread and patients are being forced to go to private hospitals. Singhdeo said huge stocks of medicines have been made available. Medicines, as well as diagnosis facilities, are being provided free in government hospitals, he said. District surveillance teams have been formed to keep a tab on new infections, he said. Swine flu testing facilities are available at Medical College Raipur, Microbiology Department of Jagdalpur Medical College and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur. Besides, three private pathology labs have been certified for carrying out H1N1 virus tests, he added. Chandrakar asked whether swine flu vaccination will be administered to common people, just as it is being provided to health department workers dealing with swine flu cases. The minister said as of now doctors, nurses and other hospital staff who are at high risk of infection will be covered under the immunisation program.

Health department, joint director among 7 swine flu victims in Chhattisgarh

One District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan sustained injuries on Sunday after an exchange of fire between security forces and Naxals near the jungle area of Sonpur in Chhattisgarh, police said.

Around 10 to 15 Naxals were also injured in the firing that took place early on Sunday morning.

Troops from the Special Task Force (STF) and the DRG from Basingbahar, Sonpur and Kohkametta camps proceeded to the Irpanar, Ikmetta, Irakbhatti area after being informed about the presence of 200 Naxals.

"At around 10 a.m, there was a heavy exchange of fire near Ikkametta jungles, which lies 9 km south of Sonpur camp. The encounter lasted for over an hour and unable to stand the offensive, the Maoists retreated with their injured," an official said.

One jawan, Dayaram Nuretti, sustained minor injuries and is condition is reported to be stable.&nbsp;

One District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan sustained injuries on Sunday after an exchange of fire between security forces and Naxals near the jungle area of Sonpur in Chhattisgarh, police said.

One District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan sustained injuries on Sunday after an exchange of fire between security forces and Naxals near the jungle area of Sonpur in Chhattisgarh, police said. Around 10 to 15 Naxals were also injured in the firing that took place early on Sunday morning. Troops from the Special Task Force (STF) and the DRG from Basingbahar, Sonpur and Kohkametta camps proceeded to the Irpanar, Ikmetta, Irakbhatti area after being informed about the presence of 200 Naxals. "At around 10 a.m, there was a heavy exchange of fire near Ikkametta jungles, which lies 9 km south of Sonpur camp. The encounter lasted for over an hour and unable to stand the offensive, the Maoists retreated with their injured," an official said. One jawan, Dayaram Nuretti, sustained minor injuries and is condition is reported to be stable.

Jawan injured in encounter with Naxals in Chhattisgarh

At least 10 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, police said.

The encounter took place around 11 am in a forest in Bhairamgarh police station area when a joint team of the Special Task Force (STF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Naxal operation, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told.

"So far, the bodies of 10 Naxals along with 11 weapons have been recovered from the spot," he said.

Search operations were still underway in the area, he added.&nbsp;

At least 10 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, police said. The encounter took place around 11 am in a forest in Bhairamgarh police station area when a joint team of the Special Task Force (STF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Naxal operation, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told.

At least 10 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Thursday, police said. The encounter took place around 11 am in a forest in Bhairamgarh police station area when a joint team of the Special Task Force (STF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Naxal operation, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told. "So far, the bodies of 10 Naxals along with 11 weapons have been recovered from the spot," he said. Search operations were still underway in the area, he added.

10 Naxals killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the Chhattisgarh government has transferred 40 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and two Indian Forest Service (IFS) officials in the state.

The transfers were made late on Monday night, an official said here on Tuesday.

The order for transfer and posting was issued by the General Administration Department, the official added.

The collectors of 12 districts- Durg, Dhamtari, Korba, Surajpur, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Rajnandgaon, Koriya, Balrampur-Ramanujganj, Mungeli, Balod, Sukma and Kanker, have been changed.

As per the orders, Prasanna R, a 2004-batch IAS officer who is presently posted as Commissioner-cum-Director of the Health Services, has been shifted as Special Secretary, Science and Technology as well as Planning, Economics and Statistics Department.

Another 2004-batch IAS officer, Alarmelmangai D, who was posted as Director of Geology and Mining, has been appointed as Special Secretary (Independent charge), Urban Administration and Development Department. She has also been given the additional responsibility of Director, Urban Administration and Development Department.

Durg district Collector Umesh Kumar Agrawal has been made Special Secretary (Home).

Agrawal has been replaced by the 2006-batch IAS officer, Ankit Anand, who was posted as Special Secretary, Energy Department and Managing Director, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Co Ltd (CSPDCL).

Dhamtari Collector C R Prasanna has been shifted as Director, Veterinary Services, while Korba Collector Mohammad Qaiser Abdulhaque has been shifted as Special Secretary, Energy Department and Managing Director of CSPDCL.

Surajpur Collector K C Devasenapati has been made Director of Geology and Mining along with additional charges of Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Mining Development Corporation and CEO of Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS), Raipur.

Rajnandgaon Collector Bhim Singh has been made Director of Agriculture. He has also been given additional charges of Additional Commissioner, Mahatma Gandhi NERGA and Director, Rural Housing.

Singh has been replaced by 2010-batch IAS officer Jaiprakash Maurya, who was presently posted as Sukma Collector.

CEO Rajnandagaon Zila Panchayat Chandan Kumar, a 2011-batch IAS officer, has been made new Sukma Collector.

Koriya Collector Narendra Kumar Dugga has been shifted as Managing Director of Dugdh Mahasangh, with additional responsibility of In-Charge Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission.

Similarly, Mungeli Collector Doman Singh has been made Collector of Kanker.

Doman Singh will replace the 2010-batch IAS officer Ranu Sahu, who has been shifted as Balod Collector.

Kiran Kaushal, who was posted as Balod Collector has been transferred as Collector of Korba.

Alok Katiyar, a 1993- batch IFS officer, who was posted as CEO of Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA), has been entrusted with additional charge of CEO, Chhattisgarh Rural Road Development Agency.

Similarly, another IFS officer, Amarnath Prasad, was posted as special secretary Agriculture, has been repatriated to his parent Forest Department.

After coming to power, the newly formed Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government did not retain former chief minister Raman Singh's set-up and warned officers against negligence and laxity.

It carried out bureaucratic reshuffle from day one. Both- the Chief Secretary as well as the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state were changed.

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the Chhattisgarh government has transferred 40 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and two Indian Forest Service (IFS) officials in the state.

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the Chhattisgarh government has transferred 40 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and two Indian Forest Service (IFS) officials in the state. The transfers were made late on Monday night, an official said here on Tuesday. The order for transfer and posting was issued by the General Administration Department, the official added. The collectors of 12 districts- Durg, Dhamtari, Korba, Surajpur, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Rajnandgaon, Koriya, Balrampur-Ramanujganj, Mungeli, Balod, Sukma and Kanker, have been changed. As per the orders, Prasanna R, a 2004-batch IAS officer who is presently posted as Commissioner-cum-Director of the Health Services, has been shifted as Special Secretary, Science and Technology as well as Planning, Economics and Statistics Department. Another 2004-batch IAS officer, Alarmelmangai D, who was posted as Director of Geology and Mining, has been appointed as Special Secretary (Independent charge), Urban Administration and Development Department. She has also been given the additional responsibility of Director, Urban Administration and Development Department. Durg district Collector Umesh Kumar Agrawal has been made Special Secretary (Home). Agrawal has been replaced by the 2006-batch IAS officer, Ankit Anand, who was posted as Special Secretary, Energy Department and Managing Director, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Co Ltd (CSPDCL). Dhamtari Collector C R Prasanna has been shifted as Director, Veterinary Services, while Korba Collector Mohammad Qaiser Abdulhaque has been shifted as Special Secretary, Energy Department and Managing Director of CSPDCL. Surajpur Collector K C Devasenapati has been made Director of Geology and Mining along with additional charges of Managing Director of Chhattisgarh State Mining Development Corporation and CEO of Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS), Raipur. Rajnandgaon Collector Bhim Singh has been made Director of Agriculture. He has also been given additional charges of Additional Commissioner, Mahatma Gandhi NERGA and Director, Rural Housing. Singh has been replaced by 2010-batch IAS officer Jaiprakash Maurya, who was presently posted as Sukma Collector. CEO Rajnandagaon Zila Panchayat Chandan Kumar, a 2011-batch IAS officer, has been made new Sukma Collector. Koriya Collector Narendra Kumar Dugga has been shifted as Managing Director of Dugdh Mahasangh, with additional responsibility of In-Charge Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission. Similarly, Mungeli Collector Doman Singh has been made Collector of Kanker. Doman Singh will replace the 2010-batch IAS officer Ranu Sahu, who has been shifted as Balod Collector. Kiran Kaushal, who was posted as Balod Collector has been transferred as Collector of Korba. Alok Katiyar, a 1993- batch IFS officer, who was posted as CEO of Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA), has been entrusted with additional charge of CEO, Chhattisgarh Rural Road Development Agency. Similarly, another IFS officer, Amarnath Prasad, was posted as special secretary Agriculture, has been repatriated to his parent Forest Department. After coming to power, the newly formed Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government did not retain former chief minister Raman Singh's set-up and warned officers against negligence and laxity. It carried out bureaucratic reshuffle from day one. Both- the Chief Secretary as well as the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state were changed.

In major bureaucratic reshuffle, Chhattisgarh government transfers 40 IAS officers

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state.

Baghel, who took over Chhattisgarh Chief Minister on December 17, has requested the Prime Minister to make amendments in the Article 164 (1A) of the Constitution keeping in view the geographical area of Chhattisgarh and the number of Council of Ministers in the state for the rapid development of the region.&nbsp;

Article 164 (1A) provides for limiting the number of ministers in the state cabinets.

He requested Prime Minister to increase the per cent of Council Ministers by five per cent from the present 15 per cent. The total number of ministers including the Chief Minister has to be within 15 per cent of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly of the state.

"According to this provision (Article 164 (1A)), the number of ministers in Chhattisgarh cannot be more than 13. The area of Chhattisgarh state is more than 1.35 lakh square kilometres and it is 4.4 per cent of the total land area of the country. Simultaneously, the area of Chhattisgarh is more than Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar and West Bengal. In Chhattisgarh, the Scheduled Tribes population is 32 per cent, Scheduled Castes 12 per cent and the Other Backward Classes population is around 45 per cent. Keeping in view the geographical area in the new state, it is necessary to increase the number of members of the Council of Ministers for smooth governance," the Chief Minister stated in his letter.

This development has come to light just days after the Baghel Cabinet was expanded with the induction of nine ministers.&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state. Baghel, who took over Chhattisgarh Chief Minister on December 17, has requested the Prime Minister to make amendments in the Article 164 (1A) of the Constitution keeping in view the geographical area of Chhattisgarh and the number of Council of Ministers in the state for the rapid development of the region. Article 164 (1A) provides for limiting the number of ministers in the state cabinets. He requested Prime Minister to increase the per cent of Council Ministers by five per cent from the present 15 per cent. The total number of ministers including the Chief Minister has to be within 15 per cent of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly of the state. "According to this provision (Article 164 (1A)), the number of ministers in Chhattisgarh cannot be more than 13. The area of Chhattisgarh state is more than 1.35 lakh square kilometres and it is 4.4 per cent of the total land area of the country. Simultaneously, the area of Chhattisgarh is more than Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar and West Bengal. In Chhattisgarh, the Scheduled Tribes population is 32 per cent, Scheduled Castes 12 per cent and the Other Backward Classes population is around 45 per cent. Keeping in view the geographical area in the new state, it is necessary to increase the number of members of the Council of Ministers for smooth governance," the Chief Minister stated in his letter. This development has come to light just days after the Baghel Cabinet was expanded with the induction of nine ministers.

Chhattisgarh CM urges PM Modi to expand number of ministers in state cabinet

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday conducted the first expansion of his Cabinet; 9 MLAs took oath as ministers, including a woman legislator, news agency PTI reported.

As per reports, Chhattisgarh Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath to new state cabinet ministers in Raipur.

Among the ministers sworn in included Mohammed Akbar, Umesh Patel, Anila Bhediya and Ravindra Chaubey.

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Chhattisgarh Governor Anandiben Patel administered oath to new state cabinet ministers in Raipur. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/kjM2Hcf0fU">pic.twitter.com/kjM2Hcf0fU</a>
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Bhagel has ordered officials to bring a proposal in the cabinet to return land which was acquired from tribal farmers in Bastar for a Tata Steel project.

Baghel took oath as Chhattisgarh chief minister on December 17, after the Congress won the state assembly election with a thumping majority.

Two other Congress legislators, T S Singh Deo and Tamradhwaj Sahu, were also sworn in as ministers that day.

The Congress returned to power in the state after 15 years, dislodging the Raman Singh-led BJP government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday conducted the first expansion of his Cabinet; 9 MLAs took oath as ministers, including a woman legislator, news agency PTI reported.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday conducted the first expansion of his Cabinet; 9 MLAs took oath as ministers, including a woman legislator, news agency PTI reported. As per reports, Chhattisgarh Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath to new state cabinet ministers in Raipur. Among the ministers sworn in included Mohammed Akbar, Umesh Patel, Anila Bhediya and Ravindra Chaubey. Chhattisgarh Governor Anandiben Patel administered oath to new state cabinet ministers in Raipur. #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/kjM2Hcf0fU — ANI (@ANI) December 25, 2018 × Bhagel has ordered officials to bring a proposal in the cabinet to return land which was acquired from tribal farmers in Bastar for a Tata Steel project. Baghel took oath as Chhattisgarh chief minister on December 17, after the Congress won the state assembly election with a thumping majority. Two other Congress legislators, T S Singh Deo and Tamradhwaj Sahu, were also sworn in as ministers that day. The Congress returned to power in the state after 15 years, dislodging the Raman Singh-led BJP government. (With inputs from PTI)

Chhattisgarh: CM Baghel conducts first cabinet expansion, 9 MLAs take oath  

The swearing-in ceremony of Rajasthan cabinet ministers is likely to take place at the Raj Bhawan in Jaipur on Monday.

While the swearing-in of the cabinet ministers in Chhatisgarh and&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh&nbsp;is scheduled for&nbsp;December 25.

Chief Ministers of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday to discuss cabinet formation in their states

According to sources, Gandhi met Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his Madhya Pradesh counterpart Kamal Nath in the evening and is learnt to have discussed cabinet formation in their states.

He also spoke with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel later in the evening.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot was among senior party leaders from the three states who were present at the meetings.

The sources said Gandhi will take a final call on cabinet formation.

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Swearing-in ceremony of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> cabinet ministers to be held tomorrow at Raj Bhavan in Jaipur.
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Swearing-in ceremony of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> cabinet ministers to be held on 25 December at Raj Bhavan in Raipur.
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The newly appointed chief ministers of the three states took oath&nbsp;on December 17.

(With inputs from agencies)

The swearing-in ceremony of Rajasthan cabinet ministers is likely to take place at the Raj Bhawan in Jaipur on Monday. While the swearing-in of the cabinet ministers in Chhatisgarh and Madhya Pradesh is scheduled for December 25.

The swearing-in ceremony of Rajasthan cabinet ministers is likely to take place at the Raj Bhawan in Jaipur on Monday. While the swearing-in of the cabinet ministers in Chhatisgarh and Madhya Pradesh is scheduled for December 25. Chief Ministers of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday to discuss cabinet formation in their states According to sources, Gandhi met Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his Madhya Pradesh counterpart Kamal Nath in the evening and is learnt to have discussed cabinet formation in their states. He also spoke with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel later in the evening. Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot was among senior party leaders from the three states who were present at the meetings. The sources said Gandhi will take a final call on cabinet formation. Swearing-in ceremony of the #Rajasthan cabinet ministers to be held tomorrow at Raj Bhavan in Jaipur. — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2018 × Swearing-in ceremony of the #Chhattisgarh cabinet ministers to be held on 25 December at Raj Bhavan in Raipur. — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2018 × The newly appointed chief ministers of the three states took oath on December 17. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajasthan: CM Ashok Gehlot-led cabinet likely to take oath on Monday

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday&nbsp;declared a farm loan waiver for loans&nbsp;up to&nbsp;Rs 2 lakh.

The government said that it would bear the losses incurring Rs 18,000 crore.

After the Congress government came to power in the Hindi heartland, it announced a loan waiver for farmers in the three states.

The assurance to pay off the loans of the farmers is one of the key election promises that has helped the party to win the assembly elections in the three states.

The loans were waived in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh on Monday after Kamal Nath and Bhupesh Baghel took oath as chief ministers of the state.

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Rajasthan govt announces farm loan waiver for loans upto Rs 2 Lakh. State govt will bear a burden of Rs 18,000 Crore. <a href="https://t.co/BUPb33xfWR">pic.twitter.com/BUPb33xfWR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1075397128854401024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;After the announcement of the loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2."

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It's done! 
 
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh &amp; Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. 
 
We asked for 10 days. 
 
We did it in 2.
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On Tuesday, a day after the Congress governments waived farm loans, the government of Sarbananda Sonowal waived loans of nearly 8 lakh farmers in Assam. Hours later, the Vijay Rupani government said it would forgo rural electricity bills to the tune of Rs. 650 crore.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday declared a farm loan waiver for loans up to Rs 2 lakh.

Days after the Congress government announced farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Rajasthan government on Wednesday declared a farm loan waiver for loans up to Rs 2 lakh. The government said that it would bear the losses incurring Rs 18,000 crore. After the Congress government came to power in the Hindi heartland, it announced a loan waiver for farmers in the three states. The assurance to pay off the loans of the farmers is one of the key election promises that has helped the party to win the assembly elections in the three states. The loans were waived in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh on Monday after Kamal Nath and Bhupesh Baghel took oath as chief ministers of the state. Rajasthan govt announces farm loan waiver for loans upto Rs 2 Lakh. State govt will bear a burden of Rs 18,000 Crore. pic.twitter.com/BUPb33xfWR — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2018 × After the announcement of the loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2." It's done! Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh have waived farm loans. We asked for 10 days. We did it in 2. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 19, 2018 × On Tuesday, a day after the Congress governments waived farm loans, the government of Sarbananda Sonowal waived loans of nearly 8 lakh farmers in Assam. Hours later, the Vijay Rupani government said it would forgo rural electricity bills to the tune of Rs. 650 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

After Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Congress announces farm loan waiver in Rajasthan

Senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel was sworn in as Chhattisgarh chief minister on Monday.

Baghel is Chhattisgarh`s third chief minister and the Congress party's second chief minister in the state. Meanwhile, Congress leaders TS Singh Deo and Tamradhwaj Sahu took oath as ministers in the new cabinet.

Present on the occasion were former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, and other Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Motilal Vora, PL Punia, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, Sharad Yadav of Loktantrik Janata Dal party, Babulal Marandi, Rajbabbar, Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, among others.

Shortly after the ceremony, Baghel said that the decision to waive farm loans has been taken.&nbsp;

"Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel: Congress President Rahul Gandhi had announced that farm loans will be waived within 10 days and that Minimum Support Price (MSP) for maize will be increased to Rs 2500 from Rs 1700 per quintal. These two decisions have been taken today," Baghel told media.&nbsp;

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Raipur: Bhupesh Baghel takes oath as the next Chief Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/YMOnKaOf92">pic.twitter.com/YMOnKaOf92</a>
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Baghel is a Kurmi leader who represents Patan Assembly constituency in Durg district. He has been the president of Chhattisgarh Congress since 2014.

Earlier in the day, the venue of Baghel's oath-taking ceremony was changed due to rainfall. The venue has been changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, news agency ANI reported.

Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion.

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Chhattisgarh CM: Our third decision is related to Jhiram Ghati. Total 29 people including prominent leaders like Nand Kumar Patel were killed. Conspirators haven't been exposed. No such massacre of politicians ever took place in history. To nab the culprits, a SIT has been formed <a href="https://t.co/Qj4wCCyJUP">pic.twitter.com/Qj4wCCyJUP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074708605310509056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Apart from Baghel, TS Singh Deo, Tamradhwaj Sahu and Charan Das Mahant were the top contenders for the post.

After mulling over various options for the past four days, Rahul Gandhi led Congress decided on Baghel, said sources. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, senior Congress leaders <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-nath-sworn-in-as-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-184795">Kamal Nath</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ashok-gehlot-takes-oath-as-12th-rajasthan-chief-minister-at-jaipurs-historic-albert-hall-184717">Ashok Gehlot</a> were sworn in as the chief ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan respectively.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel was sworn in as Chhattisgarh chief minister on Monday. Baghel is Chhattisgarh`s third chief minister and the Congress party's second chief minister in the state.

Senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel was sworn in as Chhattisgarh chief minister on Monday. Baghel is Chhattisgarh`s third chief minister and the Congress party's second chief minister in the state. Meanwhile, Congress leaders TS Singh Deo and Tamradhwaj Sahu took oath as ministers in the new cabinet. Present on the occasion were former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, and other Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Motilal Vora, PL Punia, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, Sharad Yadav of Loktantrik Janata Dal party, Babulal Marandi, Rajbabbar, Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, among others. Shortly after the ceremony, Baghel said that the decision to waive farm loans has been taken. "Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel: Congress President Rahul Gandhi had announced that farm loans will be waived within 10 days and that Minimum Support Price (MSP) for maize will be increased to Rs 2500 from Rs 1700 per quintal. These two decisions have been taken today," Baghel told media. Raipur: Bhupesh Baghel takes oath as the next Chief Minister of #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/YMOnKaOf92 — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Baghel is a Kurmi leader who represents Patan Assembly constituency in Durg district. He has been the president of Chhattisgarh Congress since 2014. Earlier in the day, the venue of Baghel's oath-taking ceremony was changed due to rainfall. The venue has been changed from Science College ground to Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, news agency ANI reported. Bhupesh Baghel has served as Congress party chief for Chattisgarh and is also an MLA from Patan, he is credited for bringing the party back to power after 15 years in oblivion. Chhattisgarh CM: Our third decision is related to Jhiram Ghati. Total 29 people including prominent leaders like Nand Kumar Patel were killed. Conspirators haven't been exposed. No such massacre of politicians ever took place in history. To nab the culprits, a SIT has been formed pic.twitter.com/Qj4wCCyJUP — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Apart from Baghel, TS Singh Deo, Tamradhwaj Sahu and Charan Das Mahant were the top contenders for the post. After mulling over various options for the past four days, Rahul Gandhi led Congress decided on Baghel, said sources. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, senior Congress leaders Kamal Nath and Ashok Gehlot were sworn in as the chief ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan respectively.

Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel follows Kamal Nath's lead, waives farm loans

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-remain-in-state-politics-raman-singh-after-chhattisgarh-result-184145">Chhattisgarh Assembly</a> have declared that they are facing criminal cases.

Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said.

The Congress registered a landslide victory in the state in the recently concluded polls by winning 68 of the 90 seats. The BJP, in power since 2003, was reduced to 15 seats.

According to the report issued by Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), of the 90 newly-elected legislators, 24 (27 per cent) have declared in their election affidavits that they are facing criminal cases. From these, 19 belong to the Congress and three are legislators of the BJP while two are from the Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J).

As per the report, Congress' Ashish Kumar Chhabra, elected from Bemetara, has declared that he is facing a case related to attempt to murder.

State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, who has won from Patan, has declared that he is facing charges of "voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty" (IPC section 332), and criminal conspiracy (IPC section 120 B), among others.

JCC(J)'s Pramod Kumar Sharma, elected from Balodabazar seat, has declared a case related to"causing death by negligence" (IPC section 304A).

In the previous Assembly, 15 (17 per cent) of the MLAs had declared that they were facing criminal cases.

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected Chhattisgarh Assembly have declared that they are facing criminal cases. Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said.

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected Chhattisgarh Assembly have declared that they are facing criminal cases. Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said. The Congress registered a landslide victory in the state in the recently concluded polls by winning 68 of the 90 seats. The BJP, in power since 2003, was reduced to 15 seats. According to the report issued by Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), of the 90 newly-elected legislators, 24 (27 per cent) have declared in their election affidavits that they are facing criminal cases. From these, 19 belong to the Congress and three are legislators of the BJP while two are from the Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J). As per the report, Congress' Ashish Kumar Chhabra, elected from Bemetara, has declared that he is facing a case related to attempt to murder. State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, who has won from Patan, has declared that he is facing charges of "voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty" (IPC section 332), and criminal conspiracy (IPC section 120 B), among others. JCC(J)'s Pramod Kumar Sharma, elected from Balodabazar seat, has declared a case related to"causing death by negligence" (IPC section 304A). In the previous Assembly, 15 (17 per cent) of the MLAs had declared that they were facing criminal cases.

24 of 90 Chhattisgarh lawmakers have criminal records: Report

Outgoing Chhattisgarh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-take-responsibility-for-this-defeat-will-forge-strong-opposition-for-chhattisgarhs-development-raman-singh-183294">Chief Minister Raman Singh</a> said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics.

The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state.

"Mai yahi tha aur yahi rahunga (I was here and will stay here)," Mr Singh said at a press conference.

"Now I will keep on coming to the BJP office in my new role. I will be meeting the press more often. Earlier as a chief minister, there were certain limitations for me but now I will come to party office and keep on meeting my workers," a smiling Singh said.

He also touched on the Supreme Court's ruling on the Rafale issue, and slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

"For the last eight months, as part of a well-planned conspiracy, an attempt was being made to malign the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by levelling false charges."

"The Supreme Court's decision has exposed the lies of the Congress president," he said.

The Congress, itself embroiled in corruption scandals, was spreading lies against the BJP and the prime minister who has been discharging his duty with complete honesty, he said.

Rahul Gandhi and his party should apologise, he demanded, saying that such a smear campaign against a prime minister was never seen earlier.

The Congress will pay for this in Lok Sabha elections, he said, seeking Rahul Gandhi's resignation as Congress chief.

Mr Gandhi had raised the issue of alleged irregularities in Rafale deal throughout his poll campaign in Chhattisgarh.

When asked if the issue had any impact in the elections, Mr Singh said, "There has been no assessment of its impact so far. But such issues which are based on lies should not be raised by the president of a leading party."

Asked about the Congress' promise of loan waiver to farmers, Singh said he will speak about it after ten days.

The Gandhi-led party had promised to waive loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power.

The Congress won 68 out of 90 seats in the Assembly elections.

Outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics. The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state.

Outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics. The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state. "Mai yahi tha aur yahi rahunga (I was here and will stay here)," Mr Singh said at a press conference. "Now I will keep on coming to the BJP office in my new role. I will be meeting the press more often. Earlier as a chief minister, there were certain limitations for me but now I will come to party office and keep on meeting my workers," a smiling Singh said. He also touched on the Supreme Court's ruling on the Rafale issue, and slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. "For the last eight months, as part of a well-planned conspiracy, an attempt was being made to malign the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by levelling false charges." "The Supreme Court's decision has exposed the lies of the Congress president," he said. The Congress, itself embroiled in corruption scandals, was spreading lies against the BJP and the prime minister who has been discharging his duty with complete honesty, he said. Rahul Gandhi and his party should apologise, he demanded, saying that such a smear campaign against a prime minister was never seen earlier. The Congress will pay for this in Lok Sabha elections, he said, seeking Rahul Gandhi's resignation as Congress chief. Mr Gandhi had raised the issue of alleged irregularities in Rafale deal throughout his poll campaign in Chhattisgarh. When asked if the issue had any impact in the elections, Mr Singh said, "There has been no assessment of its impact so far. But such issues which are based on lies should not be raised by the president of a leading party." Asked about the Congress' promise of loan waiver to farmers, Singh said he will speak about it after ten days. The Gandhi-led party had promised to waive loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power. The Congress won 68 out of 90 seats in the Assembly elections.

'Will remain in state politics': Raman Singh after Chhattisgarh result

The Rowghat area in Chhattisgarh, apart from being under thick forest cover, is also a Naxal stronghold. The area has been identified as having huge reserves of iron ore. The government is trying to build a railway line here which will enter the Maoist zone into the hidden jungle camps and the mineral-rich southern part of the state.

The Rowghat project is critical to the government's Bhilai steel plant and the construction of the railway line will facilitate transportation of iron ore to Bhilai and other steel plants that currently depend on the almost-saturated Dalli-Rajhara mines. Five new mines will be auctioned here to steel companies.

On travelling almost 1400 kilometres south of the Indian capital, into the heart of Chhattisgarh, dense and impenetrable forests welcome you to the tribal villages. This remote forest houses armed border forces popularly known as Sashatra Seema Bal (SSB) which is at war with the Maoists for over four years for the construction of the ambitious Rowghat rail project.

The proposed Dalli-Rajhara to Jagdalpur rail line exists on paper for almost three decades now. Once completed, it will connect state capital Raipur to mineral-rich Jagdalpur by rail via Bhilai, finally connecting the infamous red corridor to the Indian capital after several decades of Indian Independence.&nbsp;

For now, it is only connected by a single lane road built by the paramilitary forces who have multiplied their camps during several years in the forests to combat Naxals. An alternate rail route between the two cities (Raipur and Jagdalpur) is much longer, around 600 kilometres long, and hence takes a lot of time to transport goods. The proposed rail line aims to cut the distance by nearly half.&nbsp;

Deputy commandant of SSB, Priyadarshini Niharika Sinha, has more than 140 troops under her command with an objective to secure the construction sites of the railways and maintain peace in the area. The security of those involved in the rail project is her prime objective. She is optimistic of the rail project and feels it would bring progress and job opportunities to the villagers.&nbsp;

Sinha is also aware that the construction of this railway project, covering 235 kilometres, would allow transportation of iron ore from the Naxal-affected area of North Bastar.

"The forces guarding the project face regular threats. We face daily threats of attack from Naxals. They use improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on routes adopted by forces. Stealth and surprise attacks in market areas, firing in conjunction with IED blast, sometimes they even fire on campus. Many troops have had stand-off attacks on isolated locations, firing from moving vehicles and the troops are targeted while returning to their camps too," Sinha explained.

Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, the locals wrangle over the topic of train reaching to the tribal villages. They fear the connectivity may bring unwelcome changes into the village space.

"I am a villager and have never been to a city. I am not aware of the benefits of this project for me. All I know is that this train line will help the steel companies transport ores from the mines they will build on the hills. Soon, they are going to cut more jungles and make more mines in the area," GS Darro, a tribal man from the village said.

Some progress has been made in the preliminary railway work, particularly in the construction of the embankment which is over 20 kilometres of the proposed 95-km rail line passing through the area. A small distance can be travelled under this rail project line which has reached till Bhanupratappur, a gateway to the Naxal belt.

A 69-year-old man from the village of Pondgaon says he has never seen a train in his life. From the last active station in the Naxal zone, Bhanupratappur, Dev Sai Anchala boarded his first train in December this year. His district contains some of India’s most underdeveloped lands and the poorest people. He described his first train journey as "overwhelming".

"This tribal area is still under the impact of Naxals. It's time to make a choice - should we choose a train along with invaders in the jungle looking for ores or stay stuck with Naxals. What can we really do?" said Anchala.

The locals still live in jungles and don't have enough to maintain a lifestyle, they aren't even aware of the options available to improve their quality of living. The issue of providing jobs to those evicted from the land acquired for the project seems to have been causing concern. The railway ministry has provided jobs to over 200 people with an indication of absorbing a few more, subject to eligibility. But the locals demand more, along with a change in the eligibility criteria of a senior secondary school certificate.&nbsp;

The challenge for the government will be to convince people that the project will benefit them and will not exploit the lands and the jungles which have belonged to them for centuries. A perfect balance of attaining development along with keeping the local sentiments in mind would go a long way in upliftment of one of the most under-developed and ignored parts of India's heartland.

The Rowghat area in Chhattisgarh, apart from being under thick forest cover, is also a Naxal stronghold. The area has been identified as having huge reserves of iron ore.

The Rowghat area in Chhattisgarh, apart from being under thick forest cover, is also a Naxal stronghold. The area has been identified as having huge reserves of iron ore. The government is trying to build a railway line here which will enter the Maoist zone into the hidden jungle camps and the mineral-rich southern part of the state. The Rowghat project is critical to the government's Bhilai steel plant and the construction of the railway line will facilitate transportation of iron ore to Bhilai and other steel plants that currently depend on the almost-saturated Dalli-Rajhara mines. Five new mines will be auctioned here to steel companies. On travelling almost 1400 kilometres south of the Indian capital, into the heart of Chhattisgarh, dense and impenetrable forests welcome you to the tribal villages. This remote forest houses armed border forces popularly known as Sashatra Seema Bal (SSB) which is at war with the Maoists for over four years for the construction of the ambitious Rowghat rail project. The proposed Dalli-Rajhara to Jagdalpur rail line exists on paper for almost three decades now. Once completed, it will connect state capital Raipur to mineral-rich Jagdalpur by rail via Bhilai, finally connecting the infamous red corridor to the Indian capital after several decades of Indian Independence. For now, it is only connected by a single lane road built by the paramilitary forces who have multiplied their camps during several years in the forests to combat Naxals. An alternate rail route between the two cities (Raipur and Jagdalpur) is much longer, around 600 kilometres long, and hence takes a lot of time to transport goods. The proposed rail line aims to cut the distance by nearly half. Deputy commandant of SSB, Priyadarshini Niharika Sinha, has more than 140 troops under her command with an objective to secure the construction sites of the railways and maintain peace in the area. The security of those involved in the rail project is her prime objective. She is optimistic of the rail project and feels it would bring progress and job opportunities to the villagers. Sinha is also aware that the construction of this railway project, covering 235 kilometres, would allow transportation of iron ore from the Naxal-affected area of North Bastar. "The forces guarding the project face regular threats. We face daily threats of attack from Naxals. They use improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on routes adopted by forces. Stealth and surprise attacks in market areas, firing in conjunction with IED blast, sometimes they even fire on campus. Many troops have had stand-off attacks on isolated locations, firing from moving vehicles and the troops are targeted while returning to their camps too," Sinha explained. Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, the locals wrangle over the topic of train reaching to the tribal villages. They fear the connectivity may bring unwelcome changes into the village space. "I am a villager and have never been to a city. I am not aware of the benefits of this project for me. All I know is that this train line will help the steel companies transport ores from the mines they will build on the hills. Soon, they are going to cut more jungles and make more mines in the area," GS Darro, a tribal man from the village said. Some progress has been made in the preliminary railway work, particularly in the construction of the embankment which is over 20 kilometres of the proposed 95-km rail line passing through the area. A small distance can be travelled under this rail project line which has reached till Bhanupratappur, a gateway to the Naxal belt. A 69-year-old man from the village of Pondgaon says he has never seen a train in his life. From the last active station in the Naxal zone, Bhanupratappur, Dev Sai Anchala boarded his first train in December this year. His district contains some of India’s most underdeveloped lands and the poorest people. He described his first train journey as "overwhelming". "This tribal area is still under the impact of Naxals. It's time to make a choice - should we choose a train along with invaders in the jungle looking for ores or stay stuck with Naxals. What can we really do?" said Anchala. The locals still live in jungles and don't have enough to maintain a lifestyle, they aren't even aware of the options available to improve their quality of living. The issue of providing jobs to those evicted from the land acquired for the project seems to have been causing concern. The railway ministry has provided jobs to over 200 people with an indication of absorbing a few more, subject to eligibility. But the locals demand more, along with a change in the eligibility criteria of a senior secondary school certificate. The challenge for the government will be to convince people that the project will benefit them and will not exploit the lands and the jungles which have belonged to them for centuries. A perfect balance of attaining development along with keeping the local sentiments in mind would go a long way in upliftment of one of the most under-developed and ignored parts of India's heartland.

Rowghat rail project: Train through Naxal heartland hopes to bring change

Rahul Gandhi-led Congress is likely to announce the Chief Minister for Chhattisgarh on Saturday, news reports suggest.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi on Friday met the four contenders for the chief ministership in Chhattisgarh, including T S Singh Deo who appears to be the front-runner for the post.

Besides Deo, Chhattisgarh Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, Charan Das Mahant and Tamradhwaj Sahu were in contention for the top job of state where Congress wrested power from the BJP after 15 years, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Gandhi had last night deferred the decisions on chief minister of Chhattisgarh as he wanted to hold discussions with prominent party leaders of the state.&nbsp;

Last evening, Gandhi held a meeting with the party's central observer for Chhattisgarh Mallikarjun Kharge. AICC in-charge of party affairs in Chhattisgarh P L Punia was also present in the meeting.

(With inputs from PTI)

Rahul Gandhi-led Congress is likely to announce the Chief Minister for Chhattisgarh on Saturday, news reports suggest. Rahul Gandhi on Friday met the four contenders for the chief ministership in Chhattisgarh, including T S Singh Deo who appears to be the front-runner for the post.

Rahul Gandhi-led Congress is likely to announce the Chief Minister for Chhattisgarh on Saturday, news reports suggest. Rahul Gandhi on Friday met the four contenders for the chief ministership in Chhattisgarh, including T S Singh Deo who appears to be the front-runner for the post. Besides Deo, Chhattisgarh Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, Charan Das Mahant and Tamradhwaj Sahu were in contention for the top job of state where Congress wrested power from the BJP after 15 years, news agency PTI reported. Gandhi had last night deferred the decisions on chief minister of Chhattisgarh as he wanted to hold discussions with prominent party leaders of the state. Last evening, Gandhi held a meeting with the party's central observer for Chhattisgarh Mallikarjun Kharge. AICC in-charge of party affairs in Chhattisgarh P L Punia was also present in the meeting. (With inputs from PTI)

Chhattisgarh: Congress likely to announce Chief Minister on Saturday

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-now-on-whom-rahul-gandhi-will-choose-as-his-chief-ministers-183485">decision on the chief minister will be taken Thursday by party president Rahul Gandhi</a>, All India Congress Committee general secretary Avinash Pande told reporters after a party delegation met Governor Kalyan Singh to seek an invitation to form the government.

Pande said Gandhi will be briefed about the deliberations by the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Jaipur over the chief minister's post

Pradesh Congress Committee president Sachin Pilot and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, both MLAs, are the frontrunners for the post and were part of the delegation that met Kalyan Singh.

Earlier in the day, the CLP held a scheduled meeting at the party office, where it passed a one-line resolution in which the newly elected MLAs authorised Gandhi to decide on the chief minister's post.

After the resolution was passed, K C Venugopal, the AICC observer sent by the party to Jaipur, held discussions with individual MLAs, seeking their opinion.

The exercise went on for several hours but there was no consensus and the CLP then left the decision on Gandhi. 
"We will hand over our report to the party president tomorrow," Pande said.

Apart from AICC general secretaries Venugopal and Pande, the party had also sent four AICC secretaries to Jaipur. 
They are all expected to meet Gandhi in Delhi. Both Pilot and Gehlot would remain in Jaipur, party leaders said.

"A delegation of the party met the Governor. We have the majority and will form the government," Pande said. 
Leader of opposition Rameshwar Dudi, who lost election on Nokha seat, was also part of the delegation.

"The party observer held discussions with the MLAs and the name of the chief minister will be decided at the level of the party president Rahul Gandhi by tomorrow evening," Dudi told reporters outside Raj Bhawan.

Congress won 99 out of the 199 seats that went to the polls on December 7. Its alliance partner Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) also bagged a seat, taking the combined tally to 100 needed to form the government.

The party is also looking for support from independent candidates and non-BJP parties.

Pande said several other MLAs have also extended support to the Congress in writing and the final list will be handed over to the Governor later.

The Bharatiya Janata Party won 73 seats.&nbsp;

Resolution unanimous that Rahul will decide

Meanwhile, newly-elected Congress MLAs in Madhya Pradesh Wednesday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to nominate the new legislature party leader.

At a meeting here in the evening, they unanimously passed a resolution authorising Gandhi to name the CLP leader.

"The resolution was moved by senior MLA Arif Aqueel and seconded by other MLAs. They passed it unanimously, authorising the Congress president to nominate the legislature party leader," state Congress media cell chairperson, Shobha Oza told reporters.

The meeting lasted for about two hours, she said.

Senior Congress leaders A K Antony and Bhanwar Jitendra Singh attended the meeting as the central observers.

Oza said Gandhi will be conveyed the decision of the newly-elected MLAs, after which he will name the CLP leader.

The observers are also talking to the MLAs to seek their views, she said.

All the four independent MLAs, elected in the November 28 poll, were also present in the meeting, she said.

The Congress Wednesday emerged as the single largest party in the state by winning 114 seats, two short of a simple majority of 116 in 230-member house and claimed that it has the support of 121 members.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday morning extended support of her party to the Congress.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhhan Wednesday tendered his resignation to Governor Anandiben Patel, who met a Congress delegation here at noon after the party leaders wrote to her last night, seeking a chance to form the new government in the central Indian state.&nbsp;

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government.

After discussions that lasted hours, the Congress Wednesday failed to bring about a consensus in its ranks in Rajasthan on who should be the chief minister even as it staked its claim to form the government. The decision on the chief minister will be taken Thursday by party president Rahul Gandhi, All India Congress Committee general secretary Avinash Pande told reporters after a party delegation met Governor Kalyan Singh to seek an invitation to form the government. Pande said Gandhi will be briefed about the deliberations by the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Jaipur over the chief minister's post Pradesh Congress Committee president Sachin Pilot and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, both MLAs, are the frontrunners for the post and were part of the delegation that met Kalyan Singh. Earlier in the day, the CLP held a scheduled meeting at the party office, where it passed a one-line resolution in which the newly elected MLAs authorised Gandhi to decide on the chief minister's post. After the resolution was passed, K C Venugopal, the AICC observer sent by the party to Jaipur, held discussions with individual MLAs, seeking their opinion. The exercise went on for several hours but there was no consensus and the CLP then left the decision on Gandhi. "We will hand over our report to the party president tomorrow," Pande said. Apart from AICC general secretaries Venugopal and Pande, the party had also sent four AICC secretaries to Jaipur. They are all expected to meet Gandhi in Delhi. Both Pilot and Gehlot would remain in Jaipur, party leaders said. "A delegation of the party met the Governor. We have the majority and will form the government," Pande said. Leader of opposition Rameshwar Dudi, who lost election on Nokha seat, was also part of the delegation. "The party observer held discussions with the MLAs and the name of the chief minister will be decided at the level of the party president Rahul Gandhi by tomorrow evening," Dudi told reporters outside Raj Bhawan. Congress won 99 out of the 199 seats that went to the polls on December 7. Its alliance partner Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) also bagged a seat, taking the combined tally to 100 needed to form the government. The party is also looking for support from independent candidates and non-BJP parties. Pande said several other MLAs have also extended support to the Congress in writing and the final list will be handed over to the Governor later. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 73 seats. Resolution unanimous that Rahul will decide Meanwhile, newly-elected Congress MLAs in Madhya Pradesh Wednesday asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to nominate the new legislature party leader. At a meeting here in the evening, they unanimously passed a resolution authorising Gandhi to name the CLP leader. "The resolution was moved by senior MLA Arif Aqueel and seconded by other MLAs. They passed it unanimously, authorising the Congress president to nominate the legislature party leader," state Congress media cell chairperson, Shobha Oza told reporters. The meeting lasted for about two hours, she said. Senior Congress leaders A K Antony and Bhanwar Jitendra Singh attended the meeting as the central observers. Oza said Gandhi will be conveyed the decision of the newly-elected MLAs, after which he will name the CLP leader. The observers are also talking to the MLAs to seek their views, she said. All the four independent MLAs, elected in the November 28 poll, were also present in the meeting, she said. The Congress Wednesday emerged as the single largest party in the state by winning 114 seats, two short of a simple majority of 116 in 230-member house and claimed that it has the support of 121 members. BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday morning extended support of her party to the Congress. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhhan Wednesday tendered his resignation to Governor Anandiben Patel, who met a Congress delegation here at noon after the party leaders wrote to her last night, seeking a chance to form the new government in the central Indian state.

New Congress CMs? Party MLAs say Rahul will decide

As BJP loses key bastions in state polls, a look at party's prospects in 2019 elections

Incumbent Chhattisgarh&nbsp;Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday expressed confidence of forming the government for the fourth time in the state.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Singh ruled out the possibility of a hung assembly, adding that the BJP will form a government with a majority.&nbsp;

"Situation of a hung assembly will not come. BJP will form govt with majority. I am confident that BJP will form govt for the 4th time without anyone's support," he noted.

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Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh: Situation of hung assembly will not come. BJP will form govt with majority. I am confident that BJP will form govt for the 4th time without anyone's support. <a href="https://t.co/6E5sFn125J">pic.twitter.com/6E5sFn125J</a>
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Meanwhile, Raman's counterpart in Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-saying-this-confidently-that-bjp-will-form-government-in-madhya-pradesh-shivraj-singh-chouhan-182437">resounded similar sentiments</a>.&nbsp;

Chouhan on Saturday said that he is confident of his party’s win in the recently-held Assembly elections.&nbsp;

“There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone, who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore, I am saying this confidently that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government. This is important for everyone – poor, farmers, children and women,” Chouhan told media.

Incumbent Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday expressed confidence of forming the government for the fourth time in the state. Speaking to reporters, Singh ruled out the possibility of a hung assembly, adding that the BJP will form a government with a majority.

Incumbent Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday expressed confidence of forming the government for the fourth time in the state. Speaking to reporters, Singh ruled out the possibility of a hung assembly, adding that the BJP will form a government with a majority. "Situation of a hung assembly will not come. BJP will form govt with majority. I am confident that BJP will form govt for the 4th time without anyone's support," he noted. Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh: Situation of hung assembly will not come. BJP will form govt with majority. I am confident that BJP will form govt for the 4th time without anyone's support. pic.twitter.com/6E5sFn125J — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2018 × Meanwhile, Raman's counterpart in Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, resounded similar sentiments. Chouhan on Saturday said that he is confident of his party’s win in the recently-held Assembly elections. “There cannot be a surveyor bigger than me, someone, who is among the people day in and day out. Therefore, I am saying this confidently that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government. This is important for everyone – poor, farmers, children and women,” Chouhan told media.

Situation of hung assembly won't come, will form government with majority: Raman Singh 

The Congress Thursday filed a writ petition in the Chhattisgarh High Court, seeking directions to the Election Commission (EC) for maintaining strict security at strongrooms housing electronic voting machines (EVMs) which contain the votes cast in the last month's assembly polls.

In the petition, the main opposition party in the state has also demanded counting of VVPAT paper slips used in EVMs in 50 per cent of booths in all the constituencies.

Voter Verifiable Paper Trail (VVPT) is an independent printer system attached with EVMs that allows the voters to verify that their votes are cast as intended.

The HC posted the matter for hearing on December 10, a day before the counting of votes polled in the 90-assembly seats on November 12 and November 20.

General Secretary of Chhattisgarh Congress Girish Dewangan filed the writ petition in the high court following complaints pertaining to tampering of EVMs reported in the state, his lawyer Satish Chandra Verma said.

The petition demanded more steps to strengthen the security of election strongrooms, he said.

The petitioner has sought counting of VVPAT slips in 50 per cent of the booths in all the constituencies contending there has been serious breach of EVM security and numerous complaints of likewise nature, he said.

Besides, Dewangan has sought segregation of used and unused EVMs by placing only the used machines in strongrooms, the lawyer said.

According to the plea, round-wise counting of votes and immediate reporting should be made mandatory for all counting stations.

The court posted the matter for hearing on December 10, Verma said.

The electronic voting machines (EVMs) used in the last month's polls have been locked away in strongrooms in various district headquarters.&nbsp;

The Congress Thursday filed a writ petition in the Chhattisgarh High Court, seeking directions to the Election Commission (EC) for maintaining strict security at strongrooms housing electronic voting machines (EVMs) which contain the votes cast in the last month's assembly polls.

The Congress Thursday filed a writ petition in the Chhattisgarh High Court, seeking directions to the Election Commission (EC) for maintaining strict security at strongrooms housing electronic voting machines (EVMs) which contain the votes cast in the last month's assembly polls. In the petition, the main opposition party in the state has also demanded counting of VVPAT paper slips used in EVMs in 50 per cent of booths in all the constituencies. Voter Verifiable Paper Trail (VVPT) is an independent printer system attached with EVMs that allows the voters to verify that their votes are cast as intended. The HC posted the matter for hearing on December 10, a day before the counting of votes polled in the 90-assembly seats on November 12 and November 20. General Secretary of Chhattisgarh Congress Girish Dewangan filed the writ petition in the high court following complaints pertaining to tampering of EVMs reported in the state, his lawyer Satish Chandra Verma said. The petition demanded more steps to strengthen the security of election strongrooms, he said. The petitioner has sought counting of VVPAT slips in 50 per cent of the booths in all the constituencies contending there has been serious breach of EVM security and numerous complaints of likewise nature, he said. Besides, Dewangan has sought segregation of used and unused EVMs by placing only the used machines in strongrooms, the lawyer said. According to the plea, round-wise counting of votes and immediate reporting should be made mandatory for all counting stations. The court posted the matter for hearing on December 10, Verma said. The electronic voting machines (EVMs) used in the last month's polls have been locked away in strongrooms in various district headquarters.

Congress files petition in Chhattisgarh High Court over EVM security

Senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agarwal on Sunday said that the party leadership in Centre will decide upon the chief ministerial candidate for Chattisgarh if the BJP is voted to power again.&nbsp;

"We can't take a decision on this. Central leadership will take a decision. Whatever they decide will be abided by," the minister added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Congress yesterday also exuded confidence, claiming that the party will not look left or right for support, it will form the government in the state independently.&nbsp;

'I am confident of victory. We are getting a clear majority. There is no need to look left or right (for any support or post-poll alliance),' senior Congress leader T S Singh Deo told PTI.&nbsp;

Elections in Chhattisgarh were held in two phase on November 12 and 20. Votes will be counted on December 11.

Senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agarwal on Sunday said that the party leadership in Centre will decide upon the chief ministerial candidate for Chattisgarh if the BJP is voted to power again.

Senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agarwal on Sunday said that the party leadership in Centre will decide upon the chief ministerial candidate for Chattisgarh if the BJP is voted to power again. "We can't take a decision on this. Central leadership will take a decision. Whatever they decide will be abided by," the minister added. Meanwhile, Congress yesterday also exuded confidence, claiming that the party will not look left or right for support, it will form the government in the state independently. 'I am confident of victory. We are getting a clear majority. There is no need to look left or right (for any support or post-poll alliance),' senior Congress leader T S Singh Deo told PTI. Elections in Chhattisgarh were held in two phase on November 12 and 20. Votes will be counted on December 11.

If voted to power, Central leadership will decide CM candidate: BJP in Chhattisgarh

Dozens of Naxals were killed in an encounter between ultras and security men in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Monday, police said.

According to DM Awasthi, Special DG, Anti-Naxal Operations, an encounter between District Reserve Guard (DRG) team and the Naxals&nbsp;started at around 9:40 am and lasted for the next one-and-a-half hour.&nbsp;

''Dozens of Naxals probably killed. 9 bodies of Naxals recovered. Among the killed, 2 Naxals were carrying a reward of Rs 8 lakh each,'' he said.&nbsp;

The DRG personnel recovered arms, ammunition and IEDs from the encounter spot.&nbsp;

''We had information that Naxals threw some of the weapons in a pond near Sakler, Awasthi said and added forces entered the pond to recover the weapons &nbsp;but were fired upon.&nbsp;

Two jawans were also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

Total 1200 security personnel from STF, DRG, CRPF's CoBRA and special teams from Telangana took part in 'Operation Prahar-4'.&nbsp;

The operation was launched yesterday in Battalion one area of Naxals in Saletong, Bade Kedwal, Sakler and nearby areas, Awasthi said.&nbsp;

Dozens of Naxals were killed in an encounter between ultras and security men in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Monday, police said. According to DM Awasthi, Special DG, Anti-Naxal Operations, an encounter between District Reserve Guard (DRG) team and the Naxals started at around 9:40 am and lasted for the next one-and-a-half hour.

Dozens of Naxals were killed in an encounter between ultras and security men in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Monday, police said. According to DM Awasthi, Special DG, Anti-Naxal Operations, an encounter between District Reserve Guard (DRG) team and the Naxals started at around 9:40 am and lasted for the next one-and-a-half hour. ''Dozens of Naxals probably killed. 9 bodies of Naxals recovered. Among the killed, 2 Naxals were carrying a reward of Rs 8 lakh each,'' he said. The DRG personnel recovered arms, ammunition and IEDs from the encounter spot. ''We had information that Naxals threw some of the weapons in a pond near Sakler, Awasthi said and added forces entered the pond to recover the weapons but were fired upon. Two jawans were also killed in the encounter. Total 1200 security personnel from STF, DRG, CRPF's CoBRA and special teams from Telangana took part in 'Operation Prahar-4'. The operation was launched yesterday in Battalion one area of Naxals in Saletong, Bade Kedwal, Sakler and nearby areas, Awasthi said.

Dozen Naxals, 2 cops killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh  

At least seven Maoists and two policemen have been killed in an encounter in south Chhattisgarh's Sukma near Saklar village.&nbsp;

Sukma SP Abhishek Meena said "seven to eight Naxals have been neutralised" and that "two District Reserve Guards" have died in action.

Meena added that the process to evacuate the bodies of the two jawans who were killed had begun.&nbsp;

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2 District Reserve Guards (DRG) have died in action and 7-8 naxals have been neutralised in an encounter between troops of DRG &amp; STF (Special Task Force) and naxals in Saklar village in Sukma district. Evacuation process is underway: Sukma SP Abhishek Meena <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1066949983209959425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chhattisgarh recently went to the polls over two phases on November 12 and 20.&nbsp;

There had been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chattisgarh-goes-to-polls-tomorrow-naxals-have-carried-out-6-attacks-in-last-15-days-176627">a spate of attacks</a> on security forces before the elections, with the Naxals telling locals to boycott the polls.&nbsp;

The election results will be out on December 7.&nbsp;

(This is a developing story. Further details are awaited.)

At least seven Maoists and two policemen have been killed in an encounter in south Chhattisgarh's Sukma near Saklar village. Sukma SP Abhishek Meena said "seven to eight Naxals have been neutralised" and that "two District Reserve Guards" have died in action.

At least seven Maoists and two policemen have been killed in an encounter in south Chhattisgarh's Sukma near Saklar village. Sukma SP Abhishek Meena said "seven to eight Naxals have been neutralised" and that "two District Reserve Guards" have died in action. Meena added that the process to evacuate the bodies of the two jawans who were killed had begun. 2 District Reserve Guards (DRG) have died in action and 7-8 naxals have been neutralised in an encounter between troops of DRG & STF (Special Task Force) and naxals in Saklar village in Sukma district. Evacuation process is underway: Sukma SP Abhishek Meena #Chhattisgarh — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2018 × Chhattisgarh recently went to the polls over two phases on November 12 and 20. There had been a spate of attacks on security forces before the elections, with the Naxals telling locals to boycott the polls. The election results will be out on December 7. (This is a developing story. Further details are awaited.)

Seven Maoists, two policemen killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Sukma

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said.

While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI.

Those arrested in Bhansi area were identified as Meena Telam (22), who was active as in charge of "area supply team" of the Maoists, Manglo Telam (25)- a member of Mirtur LOS (local organisation squad) and Bhima Kunjam (25)- a member of the Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisaan Majdoor Sangathan (a front outfit of Maoists), Pallava said.

All three were associated with the Bhairamgarh "area committee" of the Maoists, he said.

He said the three were involved in torching two passenger buses and a truck on Bhansi-Dantewada road on August 8 this year in which one person was killed.

Besides, the trio were also involved in damaging railway tracks, putting up Maoist banners and posters and arranging meetings for them, he added.

Meena was carrying a reward of Rs 3 lakh on her head while Rs 1 lakh was announced for the arrest of Manglo, he said.

In another operation, a Maoist "jan militia commander" Dashman Kawasi (45), with a reward of Rs 1 lakh on his head, was apprehended near Mangnar road in Barsoor area, the official said.&nbsp;

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said. While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI.

Four Naxals, including two women, were Saturday arrested from different places in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district, police said. While three cadres were apprehended from the forest under Bhansi police station limits, another was held from Barsoor area, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI. Those arrested in Bhansi area were identified as Meena Telam (22), who was active as in charge of "area supply team" of the Maoists, Manglo Telam (25)- a member of Mirtur LOS (local organisation squad) and Bhima Kunjam (25)- a member of the Dandakaranya Adivasi Kisaan Majdoor Sangathan (a front outfit of Maoists), Pallava said. All three were associated with the Bhairamgarh "area committee" of the Maoists, he said. He said the three were involved in torching two passenger buses and a truck on Bhansi-Dantewada road on August 8 this year in which one person was killed. Besides, the trio were also involved in damaging railway tracks, putting up Maoist banners and posters and arranging meetings for them, he added. Meena was carrying a reward of Rs 3 lakh on her head while Rs 1 lakh was announced for the arrest of Manglo, he said. In another operation, a Maoist "jan militia commander" Dashman Kawasi (45), with a reward of Rs 1 lakh on his head, was apprehended near Mangnar road in Barsoor area, the official said.

4 Naxals, including 2 women, arrested in Chhattisgarh Dantewada

Chhattisgarh recorded 71.93 per cent voter turnout in the second and final phase of the Assembly elections, state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Subrat Sahoo said Tuesday evening.

He added that the final turnout percentage may rise.

"An average turnout of 71.93 per cent was recorded in 72 constituencies till 6 pm. The polling was completely peaceful and incident-free. The polling time ended at 5 pm but those voters who were still in line were given tokens and allowed to vote," Sahoo said at a press conference after the polling here Tuesday evening.

During polling, 114 ballot units, 89 control units and 359 VVPATs of EVMs were replaced due to technical snag, he said.

Naxal-affected Assembly constituencies in Kabirdham, Gariaband, Mahasamund, Balod and Balrampur districts witnessed peaceful polling, Sahoo said.

Polling personnel for two polling booths each in Gariaband and Balrampur districts were airlifted to their destinations on helicopters, he said.

The time of polling was from 8 am to 5 pm, but in two polling booths - Amamora (booth no 72) and Modh (no 76) in Bindranavgarh constituency (Gariaband district) - voting was held from 7 am to 3 pm due to Naxal threats, the official said.

"In Amamora and Modh booths, voter turnout was 82 per cent and 82.5 per cent respectively. It shows the faith of the people on democracy in hypersensitive areas," Sahoo said.

In Bindranavagarh constituency, villagers boycotted voting in one booth in Parevapali village after their demand for construction of a road under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna was not fulfilled, he said.

In two polling booths Bagrel in Janjgir Champa seat and Jamunapali booth in Korba district zero voting was reported, he said.

The voter turnout was around 64.8 per cent till 5 pm.

A total of 1,079 candidates, including 119 women, are contesting in 72 constituencies of the state with an electorate of 1,54,00,596.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission has removed a presiding officer and a polling staff of different polling booths in Marwahi constituency of Bilaspur district, after receiving complaints against them.

Bilaspur Collector P Dayanand removed presiding officer of Semra polling booth Surendra Kumar Mandavi, and a polling staff of Dhanauli polling station Kamal Kishore Tiwari after getting complaints against them by concerned polling agents, a statement issued by poll officials said.

"An inquiry has been ordered against Mandavi and Tiwari and they have been ousted from the polling duty," it said.

Similarly, two Station House Officers (SHOs)- SS Sori (Gaurela police station) and Amit Patle (Pendra police station) in Bilaspur district were attached to police line for negligence in discharging their duties, Sahoo added.

Chief Minister Raman Singh, his wife Veena Singh and son Abhishek Singh, a BJP MP from Rajnandaon district, voted in the Kawardha constituency.

State ministers, including Brijmohan Agrawal, Rajesh Munat and Premparkash Pandey, besides State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel and Leader of Opposition TS Singhdeo exercised their franchise in their respective areas.

Around 1.50 lakh security personnel have been deployed across the state to ensure peaceful polling, he said.

In the second phase of polling, extra vigil is being maintained in districts including Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur, which are Naxal-affected areas, the official said.

Maximum number of 46 candidates are in Raipur City South constituency and the least number of six candidates are in Bindranavagarh seat. Of the 72 seats, 17 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and nine for Scheduled Castes.

A total of 19,336 polling booths were set up for the second phase, of which 444 are sensitive booths.

The first phase of polls in 18 seats of eight Naxal-hit districts on November 12 had recorded over 76 per cent voter turnout.

The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Chhattisgarh recorded 71.93 per cent voter turnout in the second and final phase of the Assembly elections, state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Subrat Sahoo said Tuesday evening.

Chhattisgarh recorded 71.93 per cent voter turnout in the second and final phase of the Assembly elections, state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Subrat Sahoo said Tuesday evening. He added that the final turnout percentage may rise. "An average turnout of 71.93 per cent was recorded in 72 constituencies till 6 pm. The polling was completely peaceful and incident-free. The polling time ended at 5 pm but those voters who were still in line were given tokens and allowed to vote," Sahoo said at a press conference after the polling here Tuesday evening. During polling, 114 ballot units, 89 control units and 359 VVPATs of EVMs were replaced due to technical snag, he said. Naxal-affected Assembly constituencies in Kabirdham, Gariaband, Mahasamund, Balod and Balrampur districts witnessed peaceful polling, Sahoo said. Polling personnel for two polling booths each in Gariaband and Balrampur districts were airlifted to their destinations on helicopters, he said. The time of polling was from 8 am to 5 pm, but in two polling booths - Amamora (booth no 72) and Modh (no 76) in Bindranavgarh constituency (Gariaband district) - voting was held from 7 am to 3 pm due to Naxal threats, the official said. "In Amamora and Modh booths, voter turnout was 82 per cent and 82.5 per cent respectively. It shows the faith of the people on democracy in hypersensitive areas," Sahoo said. In Bindranavagarh constituency, villagers boycotted voting in one booth in Parevapali village after their demand for construction of a road under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna was not fulfilled, he said. In two polling booths Bagrel in Janjgir Champa seat and Jamunapali booth in Korba district zero voting was reported, he said. The voter turnout was around 64.8 per cent till 5 pm. A total of 1,079 candidates, including 119 women, are contesting in 72 constituencies of the state with an electorate of 1,54,00,596. Meanwhile, the Election Commission has removed a presiding officer and a polling staff of different polling booths in Marwahi constituency of Bilaspur district, after receiving complaints against them. Bilaspur Collector P Dayanand removed presiding officer of Semra polling booth Surendra Kumar Mandavi, and a polling staff of Dhanauli polling station Kamal Kishore Tiwari after getting complaints against them by concerned polling agents, a statement issued by poll officials said. "An inquiry has been ordered against Mandavi and Tiwari and they have been ousted from the polling duty," it said. Similarly, two Station House Officers (SHOs)- SS Sori (Gaurela police station) and Amit Patle (Pendra police station) in Bilaspur district were attached to police line for negligence in discharging their duties, Sahoo added. Chief Minister Raman Singh, his wife Veena Singh and son Abhishek Singh, a BJP MP from Rajnandaon district, voted in the Kawardha constituency. State ministers, including Brijmohan Agrawal, Rajesh Munat and Premparkash Pandey, besides State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel and Leader of Opposition TS Singhdeo exercised their franchise in their respective areas. Around 1.50 lakh security personnel have been deployed across the state to ensure peaceful polling, he said. In the second phase of polling, extra vigil is being maintained in districts including Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur, which are Naxal-affected areas, the official said. Maximum number of 46 candidates are in Raipur City South constituency and the least number of six candidates are in Bindranavagarh seat. Of the 72 seats, 17 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and nine for Scheduled Castes. A total of 19,336 polling booths were set up for the second phase, of which 444 are sensitive booths. The first phase of polls in 18 seats of eight Naxal-hit districts on November 12 had recorded over 76 per cent voter turnout. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Chhattisgarh assembly polls: 71.93% voting recorded in second phase

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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71.93% voter turnout recorded till 6 PM in the second phase of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections</a>. Voting still underway at the polling booths where voters are in the queue <a href="https://t.co/HhuyrW3e3x">pic.twitter.com/HhuyrW3e3x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064875679756492800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout</a>. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.&nbsp;

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election.

The second phase of the Chhattisgarh assembly polls recorded nearly 71.93 per cent voter turnout recorded till 6pm on Tuesday. Around 64.8 per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5pm in the state assembly election. As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. 71.93% voter turnout recorded till 6 PM in the second phase of #ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections. Voting still underway at the polling booths where voters are in the queue pic.twitter.com/HhuyrW3e3x — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm. Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll. The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.

Chhattisgarh assembly elections: Over 72% voter turnout recorded in 2nd phase

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday.

In the second phase of polling held Tuesday in 72 assembly seats, the voter turnout was recorded at 71.93 per cent till 6 PM. The first phase the poll percentage was 76.42.

Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told a press conference here that while the overall voting percentage in 2013 elections was 77.42, it has recorded at 74.17 per cent Tuesday.

Since the final figures are still awaited, the actual voter turnout could be more.

Sinha said Tuesday's elections were peaceful and incident-free as elaborate security arrangements were made.

He added that a number of old voters, including those over 100 years of age, also exercised their franchise and the Commission had made arrangements for them.

A total of 13 cases were reported where people had boycott polls over a variety of reasons including jobs, road construction and removal of encroachments.

The Commission also said, at the 19,336 polling stations being used in the second phase of Chhattisgarh polls, a total of 25,640 ballot units, 19,336 control units and 19,336 paper trail machines were used.

Only 47 ballot units, 37 control units and 131 paper trail machines needed replacement during the polls.

Given sufficient reserves available, these replacements were handled swiftly by the local polling personnel, the EC said.

Voters above 100 years of age used their voting rights in Balodabazar, Lundra, including a 113-year-old woman in Chirmiri and a 100-year-old couple in Jashpur, the poll panel said.

Two voters clicked the picture of EVM and paper trail machine while casting their votes which went viral on social media. An FIR has been registered against them for the charge of violation of the secrecy of voting.

In another incident, a sector officer as removed as he carried a reserve EVM to his house for a lunch break. Though no mala fide intention was found, he was replaced by another officer and the EVM deposited in the strong room.

Some people had complained that the official had taken the machine home, Sinha said.

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday.

A total of 74.17 per cent of the over 1.85 crore electors cast their votes in the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, which is less by nearly three per cent as compared to the last elections, the Election Commission said Tuesday. In the second phase of polling held Tuesday in 72 assembly seats, the voter turnout was recorded at 71.93 per cent till 6 PM. The first phase the poll percentage was 76.42. Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha told a press conference here that while the overall voting percentage in 2013 elections was 77.42, it has recorded at 74.17 per cent Tuesday. Since the final figures are still awaited, the actual voter turnout could be more. Sinha said Tuesday's elections were peaceful and incident-free as elaborate security arrangements were made. He added that a number of old voters, including those over 100 years of age, also exercised their franchise and the Commission had made arrangements for them. A total of 13 cases were reported where people had boycott polls over a variety of reasons including jobs, road construction and removal of encroachments. The Commission also said, at the 19,336 polling stations being used in the second phase of Chhattisgarh polls, a total of 25,640 ballot units, 19,336 control units and 19,336 paper trail machines were used. Only 47 ballot units, 37 control units and 131 paper trail machines needed replacement during the polls. Given sufficient reserves available, these replacements were handled swiftly by the local polling personnel, the EC said. Voters above 100 years of age used their voting rights in Balodabazar, Lundra, including a 113-year-old woman in Chirmiri and a 100-year-old couple in Jashpur, the poll panel said. Two voters clicked the picture of EVM and paper trail machine while casting their votes which went viral on social media. An FIR has been registered against them for the charge of violation of the secrecy of voting. In another incident, a sector officer as removed as he carried a reserve EVM to his house for a lunch break. Though no mala fide intention was found, he was replaced by another officer and the EVM deposited in the strong room. Some people had complained that the official had taken the machine home, Sinha said.

Assembly elections: Polling percentage in Chhattisgarh dips as compared to 2013

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

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64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/3MlWJZbQCX">pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX</a>
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As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-elections-voter-turnout-recorded-at-close-to-60-as-1st-phase-of-polling-ends-176901">November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent</a> voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.

Chhattisgarh reported around 64.8 per cent voter turnout till 5pm in the second phase of the state assembly election that went underway on Tuesday. As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. 64.8 % voter turnout recorded till 5 PM in the second phase of #ChhattisgarhAssemblyElections pic.twitter.com/3MlWJZbQCX — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × As many as 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts went to polls in the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly polls today. The voting commenced at 8am and is scheduled to end at 5 pm. Around 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll. The first phase of the state assembly polls was conducted on November 12 and recorded around 70 per cent voter turnout. As many as 12 constituencies went to polls.

Chhattisgarh assembly polls: Over 60% voter turnout recorded till 5pm 

Prime Minister Modi urged people to come out in large numbers in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-promises-peoples-government-in-chhattisgarh-177351">72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh</a>&nbsp;to exercise their franchise in Chhattisgarh as polling began for the second phase today.

According to the election commission, 25 per cent of the electorate exercised their franchise&nbsp;till 12.30 pm.

Voting began at 7 am in two polling booths of Bindranavagarh constituency in Gariaband district, while in the remaining 72 booths, polling started at 8 am.

The state had gone to the polls for the first phase on November 12th in the 18 Naxal-affected seats which saw 70 per cent electorates exercising their franchise.

There are 1,53,85,983 voters set to vote in the second phase in 19,296 polling booths across 72 constituencies which include those belonging to the Naxal belt in Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur districts.

The state is witnessing a three-way battle between the ruling BJP led by chief minister Raman Singh, Congress and Ajit Jogi and Mayawati led Janata Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC-J)-BSP combine with Communist Party of India (CPI) alignment providing a bitter edge to the battle. The JCC (J) is contesting in 55 seats, the BSP 33 and CPI two seats.

Jogi's manifesto promises Rs 2,500 per quintal MSP for paddy, free power supply to agriculture pumps with a capacity of up to 5 horsepower, and complete waiver of farm loans among others.

Ajit Jogi who is contesting from Marwahi segment which belongs to the Bilaspur division.

The Bilaspur division comprising of with 24 Assembly seats holds the key to the state. The area also has five seats reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC).&nbsp;

Raman Singh, the current chief minister of the state who has been in power for the past 15 years has promised 2 lakh interest-free loan for women, free books and uniform to students till 12th standard. The ruling party in its manifesto has made effort to reach out to farmers and youth.

Congress in its "people's manifesto" has promised immediate loan waivers within 10 days of being voted to power.

Out of the Of the 72 seats going to the polls today, 46 belong to the general category, while nine are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 17 for Scheduled Tribes candidates.

The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Prime Minister Modi urged people to come out in large numbers in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh to exercise their franchise in Chhattisgarh as polling began for the second phase today.

Prime Minister Modi urged people to come out in large numbers in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh to exercise their franchise in Chhattisgarh as polling began for the second phase today. According to the election commission, 25 per cent of the electorate exercised their franchise till 12.30 pm. Voting began at 7 am in two polling booths of Bindranavagarh constituency in Gariaband district, while in the remaining 72 booths, polling started at 8 am. The state had gone to the polls for the first phase on November 12th in the 18 Naxal-affected seats which saw 70 per cent electorates exercising their franchise. There are 1,53,85,983 voters set to vote in the second phase in 19,296 polling booths across 72 constituencies which include those belonging to the Naxal belt in Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Kabirdham, Jashpur and Balrampur districts. The state is witnessing a three-way battle between the ruling BJP led by chief minister Raman Singh, Congress and Ajit Jogi and Mayawati led Janata Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC-J)-BSP combine with Communist Party of India (CPI) alignment providing a bitter edge to the battle. The JCC (J) is contesting in 55 seats, the BSP 33 and CPI two seats. Jogi's manifesto promises Rs 2,500 per quintal MSP for paddy, free power supply to agriculture pumps with a capacity of up to 5 horsepower, and complete waiver of farm loans among others. Ajit Jogi who is contesting from Marwahi segment which belongs to the Bilaspur division. The Bilaspur division comprising of with 24 Assembly seats holds the key to the state. The area also has five seats reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC). Raman Singh, the current chief minister of the state who has been in power for the past 15 years has promised 2 lakh interest-free loan for women, free books and uniform to students till 12th standard. The ruling party in its manifesto has made effort to reach out to farmers and youth. Congress in its "people's manifesto" has promised immediate loan waivers within 10 days of being voted to power. Out of the Of the 72 seats going to the polls today, 46 belong to the general category, while nine are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 17 for Scheduled Tribes candidates. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Chhattisgarh elections: 25 per cent voting recorded till 12.30 pm amid heavy security

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal.

"I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi.

Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country.

Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years.

"Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said.

Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added.

He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief.

The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government. Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal. "I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi. Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country. Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years. "Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said. Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added. He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief. The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Rahul Gandhi challenges PM Modi for debate on Rafale deal

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force.

The elections for the total 90 constituencies are being held in two phases--November 12 and November 20.

"Flying squads constituted by district election offices have been keeping a close watch on illegal consignment of liquor, cash and other items meant to influence the polls," said an officer with the office of State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

These squads comprise personnel from the police, excise and income tax departments, he said.

He said unaccounted cash, illicit liquor, drugs, jewellery and other items worth Rs 11,85,51,461 have been seized from separate places in the state during October 4 - November 16 periods.

"Recovered items include cash worth Rs 4,47,13,358 and 70,681 litres of liquor worth around Rs 1,30,15,000," he said.

The officer said 22-kg narcotic items worth Rs 1.76 lakh were also recovered.

"Besides, jewelleries and other valuables worth Rs 29,13,871 were seized, apart from laptops, vehicles, pressure cookers and other items worth Rs 5,77,33,175," he said, adding that cases have been registered under appropriate acts.

The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which is eyeing the fourth consecutive term in Chhattisgarh, and the opposition Congress are locked&nbsp; 
in a close contest in the state.

The contest has become triangular with the entry of former chief minister Ajit Jogi whose outfit has tied up with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) of Mayawati and the CPI.

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force.

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force. The elections for the total 90 constituencies are being held in two phases--November 12 and November 20. "Flying squads constituted by district election offices have been keeping a close watch on illegal consignment of liquor, cash and other items meant to influence the polls," said an officer with the office of State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). These squads comprise personnel from the police, excise and income tax departments, he said. He said unaccounted cash, illicit liquor, drugs, jewellery and other items worth Rs 11,85,51,461 have been seized from separate places in the state during October 4 - November 16 periods. "Recovered items include cash worth Rs 4,47,13,358 and 70,681 litres of liquor worth around Rs 1,30,15,000," he said. The officer said 22-kg narcotic items worth Rs 1.76 lakh were also recovered. "Besides, jewelleries and other valuables worth Rs 29,13,871 were seized, apart from laptops, vehicles, pressure cookers and other items worth Rs 5,77,33,175," he said, adding that cases have been registered under appropriate acts. The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which is eyeing the fourth consecutive term in Chhattisgarh, and the opposition Congress are locked in a close contest in the state. The contest has become triangular with the entry of former chief minister Ajit Jogi whose outfit has tied up with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) of Mayawati and the CPI.

Chhattisgarh polls: Unaccounted cash, booze worth over Rs 11 crore seized

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it.

Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second and final phase of the polls, Shah accused the Congress of not doing anything for the state (part of Madhya Pradesh earlier) during its 55-year rule.

He also lavished praise on the incumbent Raman Singh government for turning Chhattisgarh into a developed state from a "bimaru" (ailing or backward) one.

"The Congress is known for making false promises. I say this several times, the Congress is such an ATM that if you insert a problem in it, you do not get development in response, but false promises," Shah told the gathering.

The BJP chief ridiculed the leaders of the Congress, including its president Rahul Gandhi, for "daydreaming" that the opposition party would form government in the state.

He alleged that the people of Chhattisgarh did not get adequate electricity under the Congress's watch and setting up a factory too was a pipe dream in the Naxal-hit state.

"The same Chhattisgarh is taking India forward in the production of aluminium, steel, cement. Chief Minister Raman Singh has done that job," Shah said.

The election to the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly is being held in two phases. The first phase of polling for 18 seats was held on November 12. The second round of voting for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it.

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it. Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second and final phase of the polls, Shah accused the Congress of not doing anything for the state (part of Madhya Pradesh earlier) during its 55-year rule. He also lavished praise on the incumbent Raman Singh government for turning Chhattisgarh into a developed state from a "bimaru" (ailing or backward) one. "The Congress is known for making false promises. I say this several times, the Congress is such an ATM that if you insert a problem in it, you do not get development in response, but false promises," Shah told the gathering. The BJP chief ridiculed the leaders of the Congress, including its president Rahul Gandhi, for "daydreaming" that the opposition party would form government in the state. He alleged that the people of Chhattisgarh did not get adequate electricity under the Congress's watch and setting up a factory too was a pipe dream in the Naxal-hit state. "The same Chhattisgarh is taking India forward in the production of aluminium, steel, cement. Chief Minister Raman Singh has done that job," Shah said. The election to the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly is being held in two phases. The first phase of polling for 18 seats was held on November 12. The second round of voting for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Congress an ATM that dispenses false promises: Amit Shah

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner.

Bilaspur division, located in the centre of the state, comprises five districts -- Bilaspur, Mungeli, Korba, Janjgir-Champa and Raigarh.

While the first phase of polls in Chhattisgarh for 18 seats took place on November 12, the second phase for the remaining 72 constituencies will be held on November 20.

In the 2013 polls, the 24 seats in the five districts of Bilaspur division saw a neck-to-neck contest with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 12, the Congress 11 and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) winning one.

The BSP, which won Jaijaipur seat in the division, however, managed to come second in two constituencies and third in seven.

With the BSP tying up with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), a three-way fight between the BJP, Congress and the Jogi-led alliance is very much on the cards.

While the BSP is contesting 10 of the 24 seats in Bilaspur division, the JCC(J) has fielded candidates on the rest.

"People are fed up with the politics of the BJP and the Congress in the state and this time they are considering our alliance as an option to bring change," BSP's state chief Omprakash Batchpayi told PTI.

"The alliance is in a good position in Bilaspur division and will win more than 12 segments there," he said confidently.

The Mayawati-led party had got 4.27 per cent of votes in the 2013 Assembly polls, a decrease from the 6.11 per cent it garnered in the 2008 polls.

On the other hand, Jogi's new outfit is seeking political space in the state, and Bilaspur region, with a sizable presence of people from the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, is expected to help the new party.

Of the 24 seats, five are reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati have campaigned in the region, a reflection of its significance.

The opposition Congress, which was trying to forge an alliance with the BSP, believes the Jogi-led alliance will not affect its chances.

State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said, "Jogi is going to lose the election from Marwahi. There is no question of the alliance affecting the prospects of the Congress. We are confident of improving our tally and win more seats in this division."

Ajit Jogi is contesting from Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces, Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively.

The Congress has fielded 10 new faces in this division this time.

Marwahi, Kota, Akaltara, Jaijaipur, Pamgarh, Lormi, Bilha, Chandrapur, Sarangarh and Shakti constituencies are among keenly watched seats from Bilaspur division during the second phase of voting on November 20.

The Kota seat will see a three-cornered contest between incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh of the Congress and BJP's Kashi Sahu.

Similarly, in Akaltara seat, Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress).

In Lormi Seat, former MLA Dharmjeet Singh (JCC-C) has been pitted against incumbent MLA and BJP candidate Tokhan Sahu and Congress's Shatrughan Chandrakar.

The lone BSP MLA Keshav Chandra, who has been renominated from Jaijaipur, is pitted against BJP's Kailash Sahu and Congress' Anil Chandra.

Bilaspur is a prominent seat where a close contest is expected between state minister Amar Agrawal of BJP and Congress' Shailesh Pandey.

Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the ruling BJP believes the Mayawati-Jogi alliance would impact the Congress' prospects in the election.

"Jogi's party would affect Congress votes, not that of the BJP in this election. We have set a target of winning 65 seats in Chhattisgarh, of which, more than 15 will be from Bilaspur division," BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Shrivastav said.&nbsp;

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner.

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner. Bilaspur division, located in the centre of the state, comprises five districts -- Bilaspur, Mungeli, Korba, Janjgir-Champa and Raigarh. While the first phase of polls in Chhattisgarh for 18 seats took place on November 12, the second phase for the remaining 72 constituencies will be held on November 20. In the 2013 polls, the 24 seats in the five districts of Bilaspur division saw a neck-to-neck contest with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 12, the Congress 11 and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) winning one. The BSP, which won Jaijaipur seat in the division, however, managed to come second in two constituencies and third in seven. With the BSP tying up with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), a three-way fight between the BJP, Congress and the Jogi-led alliance is very much on the cards. While the BSP is contesting 10 of the 24 seats in Bilaspur division, the JCC(J) has fielded candidates on the rest. "People are fed up with the politics of the BJP and the Congress in the state and this time they are considering our alliance as an option to bring change," BSP's state chief Omprakash Batchpayi told PTI. "The alliance is in a good position in Bilaspur division and will win more than 12 segments there," he said confidently. The Mayawati-led party had got 4.27 per cent of votes in the 2013 Assembly polls, a decrease from the 6.11 per cent it garnered in the 2008 polls. On the other hand, Jogi's new outfit is seeking political space in the state, and Bilaspur region, with a sizable presence of people from the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, is expected to help the new party. Of the 24 seats, five are reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati have campaigned in the region, a reflection of its significance. The opposition Congress, which was trying to forge an alliance with the BSP, believes the Jogi-led alliance will not affect its chances. State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said, "Jogi is going to lose the election from Marwahi. There is no question of the alliance affecting the prospects of the Congress. We are confident of improving our tally and win more seats in this division." Ajit Jogi is contesting from Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces, Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively. The Congress has fielded 10 new faces in this division this time. Marwahi, Kota, Akaltara, Jaijaipur, Pamgarh, Lormi, Bilha, Chandrapur, Sarangarh and Shakti constituencies are among keenly watched seats from Bilaspur division during the second phase of voting on November 20. The Kota seat will see a three-cornered contest between incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh of the Congress and BJP's Kashi Sahu. Similarly, in Akaltara seat, Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress). In Lormi Seat, former MLA Dharmjeet Singh (JCC-C) has been pitted against incumbent MLA and BJP candidate Tokhan Sahu and Congress's Shatrughan Chandrakar. The lone BSP MLA Keshav Chandra, who has been renominated from Jaijaipur, is pitted against BJP's Kailash Sahu and Congress' Anil Chandra. Bilaspur is a prominent seat where a close contest is expected between state minister Amar Agrawal of BJP and Congress' Shailesh Pandey. Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the ruling BJP believes the Mayawati-Jogi alliance would impact the Congress' prospects in the election. "Jogi's party would affect Congress votes, not that of the BJP in this election. We have set a target of winning 65 seats in Chhattisgarh, of which, more than 15 will be from Bilaspur division," BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Shrivastav said.

Chhattisgarh polls: Bilaspur division, with 24 seats, could hold key

PM Modi today addressed a rally in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/assembly-elections-2018-voters-counter-maoist-threat-in-chhattisgarh-177306">Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district </a>as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state.

"People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally.

The prime minister said BJP's popularity is a threat to the Congress.

PM Modi applauded the people of Bastar in Chhattisgarh asserting that they gave a "strong response" to the Naxals by registering record voting percentage in the first phase of assembly polls.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi plays a traditional drum during a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur. <a href="https://t.co/rh7MAplnZ7">pic.twitter.com/rh7MAplnZ7</a>
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"Shouldn't people of Bastar be appreciated for such high voting percentages, he asked the people in the rally, adding, "I will tell you a way to appreciate them, on November 20 you register even higher voting percentage than Bastar."

Chattishgarh recorded 70 per cent polling in the first phase held on November 12th.

"I want to challenge them, let some good leader of Congress outside of the family become the party president for five years, then I will say that Nehruji really created a truly democratic system there," he said in Ambikapur.

Taking another jibe at the Congress, the PM said: "These people still have not come to terms that I am the PM, it has been nearly four and a half years. They are still crying, how can a 'chaiwala'(tea seller) become PM? Now they say a 'chaiwala' became PM because of one great person," he declared.&nbsp;

The second phase of polling is due to take place on November 20th in the state. The polling in the first phase took place even as Naxals tried to disrupt the proceedings blasting multiple crude bombs ahead of election day and detonated an IED in Dantewada.

On November 12th, 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 have been reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. In the second and last phase, as many as 72 constituencies in the state will go to the polls.

BJP chief minister Raman Singh is hoping to retain power in the state although the Congress and Ajit Jogi's party&nbsp;Janta Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC) which has tied up with Mayawati's BSP is set to give a tough fight to the ruling party in the state.

The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

PM Modi today addressed a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state. "People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally.

PM Modi today addressed a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state. "People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally. The prime minister said BJP's popularity is a threat to the Congress. PM Modi applauded the people of Bastar in Chhattisgarh asserting that they gave a "strong response" to the Naxals by registering record voting percentage in the first phase of assembly polls. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi plays a traditional drum during a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur. pic.twitter.com/rh7MAplnZ7 — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × "Shouldn't people of Bastar be appreciated for such high voting percentages, he asked the people in the rally, adding, "I will tell you a way to appreciate them, on November 20 you register even higher voting percentage than Bastar." Chattishgarh recorded 70 per cent polling in the first phase held on November 12th. "I want to challenge them, let some good leader of Congress outside of the family become the party president for five years, then I will say that Nehruji really created a truly democratic system there," he said in Ambikapur. Taking another jibe at the Congress, the PM said: "These people still have not come to terms that I am the PM, it has been nearly four and a half years. They are still crying, how can a 'chaiwala'(tea seller) become PM? Now they say a 'chaiwala' became PM because of one great person," he declared. The second phase of polling is due to take place on November 20th in the state. The polling in the first phase took place even as Naxals tried to disrupt the proceedings blasting multiple crude bombs ahead of election day and detonated an IED in Dantewada. On November 12th, 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 have been reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. In the second and last phase, as many as 72 constituencies in the state will go to the polls. BJP chief minister Raman Singh is hoping to retain power in the state although the Congress and Ajit Jogi's party Janta Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC) which has tied up with Mayawati's BSP is set to give a tough fight to the ruling party in the state. The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

People have disapproved that only one family has right to speak from Red Fort, says PM Modi at Chhattisgarh rally

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