Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Saturday said he has written to his counterparts of different states seeking support to stall the proposed amendments by the BJP-led central government to the Electricity Act, 2003 in the Rajya Sabha.

Addressing a public rally in northwest Delhi's Rohini, Kejriwal said that he will travel to different states from next week to meet respective chief ministers and convince them to stand together to stall the bill so that it is not passed before the Lok Sabha elections.

"I have written to chief ministers of different states on the dangers of the proposed amendment and how it will break the back of the common man. I have urged them to stand against the proposed amendments," he said.

Kejriwal said he would meet several chief ministers, including Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal), N Chandra Babu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Pinarayi Vijayan (Kerala) and HD

Kumaraswamy (Karnataka), for consensus against the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act.

The AAP national convener's move comes at a time when the Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held next year. It is also seen to unite opposition parties against the

Bharatiya Janata Party. The Aam Aadmi Party is gearing up for the general elections.

He alleged that the Modi government is going to introduce the amendment in the Winter Session of Parliament which will "break" the back of the common man as the power tariffs would be "unaffordable" after it is passed.

According to the Delhi chief minister, the proposed amendment aims at phasing out the cross subsidy, which will mean that power tariffs of the common man will be the same as of the commercial and industrial units.

"This would lead to huge increase in tariffs across the country immediately for small and medium domestic consumers as well as farmers, who account for nearly 90 per cent of all consumers," a statement quoted Kejriwal as saying at the public rally.

He said that Delhi citizens, who use up to 200 units, are currently charged Rs 1 per unit, while those using up to 400 units are charged Rs 2.50 per unit.&nbsp;

Kejriwal claimed that once the proposed amendment is done, both the categories will have to pay Rs 7.50 per unit, adding that this would hit hard around 90 per cent of all consumers in Delhi.

Last week, Kejriwal had said the amendments proposed by it to the Electricity Act, 2003 were "very dangerous" and aimed at benefitting "a few power companies" at the cost of the poor people and farmers of the country.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Saturday said he has written to his counterparts of different states seeking support to stall the proposed amendments by the BJP-led central government to the Electricity Act, 2003 in the Rajya Sabha.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Saturday said he has written to his counterparts of different states seeking support to stall the proposed amendments by the BJP-led central government to the Electricity Act, 2003 in the Rajya Sabha. Addressing a public rally in northwest Delhi's Rohini, Kejriwal said that he will travel to different states from next week to meet respective chief ministers and convince them to stand together to stall the bill so that it is not passed before the Lok Sabha elections. "I have written to chief ministers of different states on the dangers of the proposed amendment and how it will break the back of the common man. I have urged them to stand against the proposed amendments," he said. Kejriwal said he would meet several chief ministers, including Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal), N Chandra Babu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Pinarayi Vijayan (Kerala) and HD Kumaraswamy (Karnataka), for consensus against the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act. The AAP national convener's move comes at a time when the Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held next year. It is also seen to unite opposition parties against the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Aam Aadmi Party is gearing up for the general elections. He alleged that the Modi government is going to introduce the amendment in the Winter Session of Parliament which will "break" the back of the common man as the power tariffs would be "unaffordable" after it is passed. According to the Delhi chief minister, the proposed amendment aims at phasing out the cross subsidy, which will mean that power tariffs of the common man will be the same as of the commercial and industrial units. "This would lead to huge increase in tariffs across the country immediately for small and medium domestic consumers as well as farmers, who account for nearly 90 per cent of all consumers," a statement quoted Kejriwal as saying at the public rally. He said that Delhi citizens, who use up to 200 units, are currently charged Rs 1 per unit, while those using up to 400 units are charged Rs 2.50 per unit. Kejriwal claimed that once the proposed amendment is done, both the categories will have to pay Rs 7.50 per unit, adding that this would hit hard around 90 per cent of all consumers in Delhi. Last week, Kejriwal had said the amendments proposed by it to the Electricity Act, 2003 were "very dangerous" and aimed at benefitting "a few power companies" at the cost of the poor people and farmers of the country.

Have written to various CMs to stand against amendments proposed to Electricity Act: Kejriwal

The Justice A Arumughaswamy Commission of Inquiry probing the death of late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has completed examining as many as 100 witnesses, with its tenure set to end next month.

Besides, as on September 25, 57 witnesses have been cross-examined and 11 more, including Apollo Hospitals doctors, will face questioning Thursday from the counsel for VK Sasikala, an aide of the former AIADMK supremo Jayalalithaa.

Significantly, Dr K S Sivakumar, the personal physician of Jayalalithaa, has been summoned to appear on September 28 for re-examination.

Sivakumar's next appearance will be his fifth and he has been asked by the panel to furnish a list of doctors the late leader consulted between 2014 and 2016 and the medication prescribed and followed by her.

Some of those summoned have sought an adjournment, including Alok Kumar, a bank manager in Nilgiris district and two more people who are abroad.

Apollo Hospitals' radiologist Dr Meera and emergency doctor Thava Pazhani have been summoned to appear on September 28.

A few days ago, Dr Archana, a doctor at the Apollo Hospitals, where the former chief minister was admitted during her final days, told the panel that an audio clip released in May was indeed recorded at the hospital when she was being treated there.

Dr Snehasri, an emergency doctor too had deposed that when she went to the Poes Garden residence of Jayalalithaa on September 22, 2016 (hours before her hospitalisation) the late leader was drowsy but conscious.

AIADMK leader P Manoj Pandian, who appeared on September 25, blamed Sasikala during his cross-examination for the alleged "mysterious" circumstances surrounding the former chief minister's death.

Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5, 2016, after being treated in the hospital for 75 days from September 22 for various ailments.

In September 2017, the state government had constituted the probe panel under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, mandating it to probe the circumstances leading to Jayalalithaa's hospitalisation and also the treatment provided by the hospital until her demise.

The commission, whose term has been extended twice since then, had invited all those having "personal knowledge and direct acquaintance" to furnish information related to her.

Several persons, including present Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and his followers, had earlier raised suspicions about the circumstances leading to Jayalalithaa's death.

The Commission began its hearing on November 22, 2017, and Madurai-based DMK functionary P Saravanan deposed before the panel on that day.

He said he had brought to the panel's notice&nbsp;the alleged discrepancies in press releases and the final discharge summary of the hospital where Jayalalithaa received treatment.

The Justice A Arumughaswamy Commission of Inquiry probing the death of late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has completed examining as many as 100 witnesses, with its tenure set to end next month.

The Justice A Arumughaswamy Commission of Inquiry probing the death of late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has completed examining as many as 100 witnesses, with its tenure set to end next month. Besides, as on September 25, 57 witnesses have been cross-examined and 11 more, including Apollo Hospitals doctors, will face questioning Thursday from the counsel for VK Sasikala, an aide of the former AIADMK supremo Jayalalithaa. Significantly, Dr K S Sivakumar, the personal physician of Jayalalithaa, has been summoned to appear on September 28 for re-examination. Sivakumar's next appearance will be his fifth and he has been asked by the panel to furnish a list of doctors the late leader consulted between 2014 and 2016 and the medication prescribed and followed by her. Some of those summoned have sought an adjournment, including Alok Kumar, a bank manager in Nilgiris district and two more people who are abroad. Apollo Hospitals' radiologist Dr Meera and emergency doctor Thava Pazhani have been summoned to appear on September 28. A few days ago, Dr Archana, a doctor at the Apollo Hospitals, where the former chief minister was admitted during her final days, told the panel that an audio clip released in May was indeed recorded at the hospital when she was being treated there. Dr Snehasri, an emergency doctor too had deposed that when she went to the Poes Garden residence of Jayalalithaa on September 22, 2016 (hours before her hospitalisation) the late leader was drowsy but conscious. AIADMK leader P Manoj Pandian, who appeared on September 25, blamed Sasikala during his cross-examination for the alleged "mysterious" circumstances surrounding the former chief minister's death. Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5, 2016, after being treated in the hospital for 75 days from September 22 for various ailments. In September 2017, the state government had constituted the probe panel under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, mandating it to probe the circumstances leading to Jayalalithaa's hospitalisation and also the treatment provided by the hospital until her demise. The commission, whose term has been extended twice since then, had invited all those having "personal knowledge and direct acquaintance" to furnish information related to her. Several persons, including present Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and his followers, had earlier raised suspicions about the circumstances leading to Jayalalithaa's death. The Commission began its hearing on November 22, 2017, and Madurai-based DMK functionary P Saravanan deposed before the panel on that day. He said he had brought to the panel's notice the alleged discrepancies in press releases and the final discharge summary of the hospital where Jayalalithaa received treatment.

Ex-Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa death probe: Panel completes examining 100 witnesses

Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will return to Goa on Friday (June 15), according to the Goa chief minister office sources.

Parrikar was in the United States for medical attention as he had reportedly contracted pancreatic cancer.

Last month, in a video message, Parrikar said that his treatment was giving successful results.

Before moving to the United States for further medical treatment, Goa chief minister was hospitalised at the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai on February 15, following mild pancreatitis problems and was discharged from there on February 22.

Parrikar was in the United States for medical attention as he had reportedly contracted pancreatic cancer

Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will return to Goa on Friday (June 15), according to the Goa chief minister office sources. Parrikar was in the United States for medical attention as he had reportedly contracted pancreatic cancer. Last month, in a video message, Parrikar said that his treatment was giving successful results. Before moving to the United States for further medical treatment, Goa chief minister was hospitalised at the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai on February 15, following mild pancreatitis problems and was discharged from there on February 22.

Parrikar likely to return to Goa on Friday

AAP leaders and workers camped outside the chief minister's residence here today in support of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues who have been staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office and asserted that they would continue the fight for the rights of the people without any compromise.

Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence.&nbsp;

This is a fight for the rights of the people of Delhi, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh told reporters outside the chief minister's residence.

"At the instance of Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor has crippled Delhi government. We will not keep quiet now and fight till the last," Singh asserted.

Flanked by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi Marlena, the party MP said that they were prepared for a long drawn battle over issues of full statehood, IAS officers' strike and the schemes of government including doorstep delivery of ration, allegedly curtailed by the LG.

"Modi is behind the crippling of Delhi government's functioning using the Lt Governor as a pawn."

Singh said that he was in touch with opposition leaders such as D Raja of the CPI and Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) over the developments in Delhi.

Singh also attacked former Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit over the full statehood issue.

"She ruled for ten years when Congress was at the Centre. Why did the full statehood was promised in their manifesto if they did not want it," he said

Bhardwaj said that the IAS officers of Delhi were on strike although they denied in a press statement yesterday.

Citing rules, he said that even "slowing down" work and not attending meetings called by ministers was a form of strike.

"Over a dozen show-cause notices and memos have been sent to the officers, but the situation is the same. They are shying away from openly admitting their strike because they will lose their jobs since rules do not permit it," he said.

Marlena said that government works including those related with education and pollution were hampered due to the strike.

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".&nbsp;

Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence

AAP leaders and workers camped outside the chief minister's residence here today in support of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues who have been staging a sit-in at the Lieutenant Governor's office and asserted that they would continue the fight for the rights of the people without any compromise. Tents have been put up outside Kejriwal Civil Lines residence. This is a fight for the rights of the people of Delhi, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh told reporters outside the chief minister's residence. "At the instance of Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor has crippled Delhi government. We will not keep quiet now and fight till the last," Singh asserted. Flanked by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi Marlena, the party MP said that they were prepared for a long drawn battle over issues of full statehood, IAS officers' strike and the schemes of government including doorstep delivery of ration, allegedly curtailed by the LG. "Modi is behind the crippling of Delhi government's functioning using the Lt Governor as a pawn." Singh said that he was in touch with opposition leaders such as D Raja of the CPI and Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) over the developments in Delhi. Singh also attacked former Delhi Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Sheila Dikshit over the full statehood issue. "She ruled for ten years when Congress was at the Centre. Why did the full statehood was promised in their manifesto if they did not want it," he said Bhardwaj said that the IAS officers of Delhi were on strike although they denied in a press statement yesterday. Citing rules, he said that even "slowing down" work and not attending meetings called by ministers was a form of strike. "Over a dozen show-cause notices and memos have been sent to the officers, but the situation is the same. They are shying away from openly admitting their strike because they will lose their jobs since rules do not permit it," he said. Marlena said that government works including those related with education and pollution were hampered due to the strike. Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".

AAP leaders, workers camp outside Kejriwal's residence

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

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

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

Stalin, Naidu wish speedy recovery of ex-PM Vajpayee

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands.

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations.

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and have since stayed on.

After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests".

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I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1006475254623973376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said.

The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy".&nbsp;

"Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter.&nbsp;

However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met.&nbsp;

"Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said.

The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast".&nbsp;

Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at&nbsp;11 am.

Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said.

"My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at&nbsp;6.27 am&nbsp;from the L-G's office.&nbsp;

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area.

In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected.

According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering.&nbsp;

Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20, it said.

In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since&nbsp;February 23&nbsp;to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said.

The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities."

Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason".

A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately.

In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if

necessary, ESMA may be invoked".

However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected.

"Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted.

"Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in.

The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike', action against those who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands. The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations. Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and have since stayed on. After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests". I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 12, 2018 × It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said. The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy". "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter. However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met. "Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said. The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter. Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast". Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at 11 am. Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said. "My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at 6.27 am from the L-G's office. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area. In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected. According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering. Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of February 19-20, it said. In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since February 23 to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands. "Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said. The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities." Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason". A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately. In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if necessary, ESMA may be invoked". However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected. "Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted. "Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in. The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of February 19-20.

'Dharna without reason' says L-G's office as Kejriwal continues sit-in

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and since then, they stayed out there.

Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)."

Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter.

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike' and action against officers who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy". Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months". Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and since then, they stayed out there. Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)." Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal's sit-in a mockery of democracy: Manoj Tiwari

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has arrested from Rajasthan the brother of former BJP minister Lal Singh who had been on the run since the registration of a case against him for allegedly abusing Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti during a public rally.

The officials said that Rajinder Singh alias Bobby was arrested from Udaipur, where he was hiding. He is being brought to Jammu.

A video, circulated on social media, purportedly showed him hurling abuses at the chief minister during the Dogra Swabiman Rally in Hiranagar last month.&nbsp;

A video, circulated on social media, purportedly showed Rajinder Singh alias Bobby hurling abuses at the chief minister during the Dogra Swabiman Rally in Hiranagar last month.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has arrested from Rajasthan the brother of former BJP minister Lal Singh who had been on the run since the registration of a case against him for allegedly abusing Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti during a public rally. The officials said that Rajinder Singh alias Bobby was arrested from Udaipur, where he was hiding. He is being brought to Jammu. A video, circulated on social media, purportedly showed him hurling abuses at the chief minister during the Dogra Swabiman Rally in Hiranagar last month.

Rajasthan: Ex-BJP minister's brother arrested for 'abusing' J&K CM Mufti

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday confirmed that tension still looms among Congress leaders with regards to the state cabinet berth allocation.

However, the newly-elected chief minister said he is confident that the Congress party will take the right decision in this regard.

"Yes, there is some tension there (regarding portfolio allocation), but I am confident that the Congress leaders will take the right decision," he told reporters here.

On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths.

While the grand old party was given charge of 22 ministries, including home, irrigation, health, agriculture and women and child welfare ministries 12 ministries, including finance and excise, public works department, education, tourism and transport ministries were allocated to the Janata Dal (Secular).

Apart from Baig and Reddy, the expectant candidates from the Congress party who were dropped from the cabinet include MB&nbsp;Patil, Dinesh Gundu Rao, HK&nbsp;Patil, Shyamnur Shivashankarappa, Tanvir Sait, Satish Jarkhiholi, NA&nbsp;Harris, Dr

Sudhakar, Rahim Khan, Bhyrati Basavaraju, S&nbsp;Shivalli, Satish Jarakiholi, Eshwar Khandre and MTB&nbsp;Nagaraj.&nbsp;

On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday confirmed that tension still looms among Congress leaders with regards to the state cabinet berth allocation. However, the newly-elected chief minister said he is confident that the Congress party will take the right decision in this regard. "Yes, there is some tension there (regarding portfolio allocation), but I am confident that the Congress leaders will take the right decision," he told reporters here. On June 7, Congress party workers protested as expectant candidates Roshan Baig and Ramalinga Reddy were not given ministerial berths. While the grand old party was given charge of 22 ministries, including home, irrigation, health, agriculture and women and child welfare ministries 12 ministries, including finance and excise, public works department, education, tourism and transport ministries were allocated to the Janata Dal (Secular). Apart from Baig and Reddy, the expectant candidates from the Congress party who were dropped from the cabinet include MB Patil, Dinesh Gundu Rao, HK Patil, Shyamnur Shivashankarappa, Tanvir Sait, Satish Jarkhiholi, NA Harris, Dr Sudhakar, Rahim Khan, Bhyrati Basavaraju, S Shivalli, Satish Jarakiholi, Eshwar Khandre and MTB Nagaraj.

Tension regarding portfolio allocation exists, says Kumaraswamy

The Tamil Nadu government today announced it would ban the use of plastic items, including non-biodegradable carry bags, from January 2019 to "gift a plastic-free" state to future generations.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami's announcement in the state assembly coincided with International Environment Day today.

The ban on manufacture, sale, storage and usage of items such as plastic paper, cups, water sachets, straws and carry bags would come into effect from&nbsp;January 1, 2019, Palaniswami said.

The ban would cover these plastic articles irrespective of their micron size.

However, polythene sachets used for packing milk, curd, oil and medical equipment would be exempted from the ban, Palaniswami said.

The PMK, in a statement, said this is not the first time the state government was banning disposable plastic, recalling that late Jayalalithaa had made a similar attempt in 2002 as chief minister then.

Palaniswami said former chief minister Jayalalithaa had earlier constituted an expert panel to go into the issue of banning plastic products.

That panel had suggested banning disposable plastic products, including bags, plates and cups, and recommended that traditional items such as plantain leaves and plates made of palm leaves be used, Palaniswami said.

The chief minister said non-biodegradable plastic products, mainly polythene covers affect the environment, impeding water flow.

"When such disposable plastic items remain on the soil, it impedes water flow to water bodies, resulting in stagnation. It also affects the flow of sewage.

"Further, it prevents percolation of rain water into the soil, thus affecting the increase in underground water," he said in a statement.

The chief minister said when rainwater stagnates in strewn plastic waste, it results in breeding of dengue and malaria-causing mosquitoes.

He said while such waste contributed towards flooding, it has also affected soil quality.&nbsp;

Its burning also causes problems, he said, adding that plastic products contributed to various forms of pollution-- air, land and water.

Cattle feeding on such waste face the danger of death, the chief minister said.

"Since plastic is non-biodegradable it is not easy to destroy... Due to pollution of air, water and land, plastic becomes harmful for human life. Therefore, completely avoiding them is the need of the hour," he said.

"Considering the damage caused by plastic, and to ensure this is not left behind for future generations, the Amma government has decided to ban non-biodegradable plastic covers, plates, cups, water packets, straws and bags," he said.

However, plastic sachets used to pack milk, curd and oil, besides those used to wrap medical products,would be exempted from the ban, Palaniswami said.

The ban is brought under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and it would come into effect from&nbsp;January 1, 2019, to allow people to change over to using paper bags and other products made out of paper as substitutes to the plastic items facing ban, he said.

Palaniswami said people's participation in the past for a rainwater harvesting scheme introduced by Jayalalithaa had resulted in success, as it had led to better groundwater resources.

"Similarly, with the cooperation and contribution of all, let us gift a plastic-free Tamil Nadu for the future generations of the state," he said.

PMK founder S Ramadoss, who welcomed the announcement, recalled that Jayalalithaa had made a similar attempt in 2002 as then chief minister.

"This is not the first time the Tamil Nadu government is banning disposable plastic. On May 7, 2002 then chief minister Jayalalithaa had brought in a legislation in the Assembly for banning the use of plastic.&nbsp;

"However, on January 1, 2003, she withdrew that legislation without any transparent reason," he said in a statement.

The PMK founder said the Tamil Nadu should "determinedly implement" its latest announcement on plastic ban.&nbsp;

Chief Minister EK Palaniswami said his government would ban the use of plastic items, including non-biodegradable carry bags, from January 2019 to 'gift a plastic-free' state to future generations

The Tamil Nadu government today announced it would ban the use of plastic items, including non-biodegradable carry bags, from January 2019 to "gift a plastic-free" state to future generations. Chief Minister K Palaniswami's announcement in the state assembly coincided with International Environment Day today. The ban on manufacture, sale, storage and usage of items such as plastic paper, cups, water sachets, straws and carry bags would come into effect from January 1, 2019, Palaniswami said. The ban would cover these plastic articles irrespective of their micron size. However, polythene sachets used for packing milk, curd, oil and medical equipment would be exempted from the ban, Palaniswami said. The PMK, in a statement, said this is not the first time the state government was banning disposable plastic, recalling that late Jayalalithaa had made a similar attempt in 2002 as chief minister then. Palaniswami said former chief minister Jayalalithaa had earlier constituted an expert panel to go into the issue of banning plastic products. That panel had suggested banning disposable plastic products, including bags, plates and cups, and recommended that traditional items such as plantain leaves and plates made of palm leaves be used, Palaniswami said. The chief minister said non-biodegradable plastic products, mainly polythene covers affect the environment, impeding water flow. "When such disposable plastic items remain on the soil, it impedes water flow to water bodies, resulting in stagnation. It also affects the flow of sewage. "Further, it prevents percolation of rain water into the soil, thus affecting the increase in underground water," he said in a statement. The chief minister said when rainwater stagnates in strewn plastic waste, it results in breeding of dengue and malaria-causing mosquitoes. He said while such waste contributed towards flooding, it has also affected soil quality. Its burning also causes problems, he said, adding that plastic products contributed to various forms of pollution-- air, land and water. Cattle feeding on such waste face the danger of death, the chief minister said. "Since plastic is non-biodegradable it is not easy to destroy... Due to pollution of air, water and land, plastic becomes harmful for human life. Therefore, completely avoiding them is the need of the hour," he said. "Considering the damage caused by plastic, and to ensure this is not left behind for future generations, the Amma government has decided to ban non-biodegradable plastic covers, plates, cups, water packets, straws and bags," he said. However, plastic sachets used to pack milk, curd and oil, besides those used to wrap medical products,would be exempted from the ban, Palaniswami said. The ban is brought under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and it would come into effect from January 1, 2019, to allow people to change over to using paper bags and other products made out of paper as substitutes to the plastic items facing ban, he said. Palaniswami said people's participation in the past for a rainwater harvesting scheme introduced by Jayalalithaa had resulted in success, as it had led to better groundwater resources. "Similarly, with the cooperation and contribution of all, let us gift a plastic-free Tamil Nadu for the future generations of the state," he said. PMK founder S Ramadoss, who welcomed the announcement, recalled that Jayalalithaa had made a similar attempt in 2002 as then chief minister. "This is not the first time the Tamil Nadu government is banning disposable plastic. On May 7, 2002 then chief minister Jayalalithaa had brought in a legislation in the Assembly for banning the use of plastic. "However, on January 1, 2003, she withdrew that legislation without any transparent reason," he said in a statement. The PMK founder said the Tamil Nadu should "determinedly implement" its latest announcement on plastic ban.

World Environment Day: Tamil Nadu to ban use of plastic from January 2019

Saudi Arabia has banned the import of frozen and processed fruits and vegetables from Kerala after the outbreak of the Nipah virus there, news reports said Tuesday.&nbsp

The UAE had on May 29 banned the import of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kerala.&nbsp

The Nipah virus can cause encephalitis — a dangerous swelling of the brain.

Symptoms of the virus vary from none to fever, cough, headache, shortness of breath, and confusion. This may worsen into a coma over a day or two.

The main host of the virus is said to be the fruit bat, with the virus passing from the bat to the fruits it touches.&nbsp

The virus can also be transmitted from animals to humans.&nbsp

Eighteen people have so far contracted the Nipah virus in Kerala. Of them, 16 have died while two are recovering well.&nbsp

Over 2,000 people who it is thought may have contracted the virus are currently being monitored in Kerala.&nbsp

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan meanwhile said on Monday that the spread of the virus has been contained, but that people should continue to be alert.

The UAE had on May 29 banned the import of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kerala. Sixteen people have so far died from the virus in Kerala

Saudi Arabia has banned the import of frozen and processed fruits and vegetables from Kerala after the outbreak of the Nipah virus there, news reports said Tuesday. The UAE had on May 29 banned the import of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kerala. The Nipah virus can cause encephalitis — a dangerous swelling of the brain. Symptoms of the virus vary from none to fever, cough, headache, shortness of breath, and confusion. This may worsen into a coma over a day or two. The main host of the virus is said to be the fruit bat, with the virus passing from the bat to the fruits it touches. The virus can also be transmitted from animals to humans. Eighteen people have so far contracted the Nipah virus in Kerala. Of them, 16 have died while two are recovering well. Over 2,000 people who it is thought may have contracted the virus are currently being monitored in Kerala. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan meanwhile said on Monday that the spread of the virus has been contained, but that people should continue to be alert.

Nipah virus scare: Saudi Arabia bans import of fruits, vegetables from Kerala

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

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

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

Narendra Modi: Journey from CM to PM

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandra Babu Naidu on Thursday said that he has no ambition to become the prime minister of the country.

This came after Telegu Desam Party supporters raised slogans at the Mahanadu meeting in Hyderabad saying that Chandrababu Naidu should become the Prime Minister.

TDP Mahanadu started on Thursday afternoon in Nampally exhibition grounds in Hyderabad. The event started with L. Ramana Rao paying tributes to late NT Rama Rao. Devender Goud, senior leader of TDP, R.

Krishnayya and many other leaders were present in the event. Chandra Babu Naidu was the main chief guest for this event.CM Naidu said, "Although we are not in power for 14 years, now I have confidence that we can carry this flag on our shoulders by witnessing your support for me. You people were support for the party. You were growing for four years and now I am feeling that no one stop you people. No one can do anything in the coming elections in 2019."

In his speech, he said Telugu Desam Party government was the one who met Bill Gates several times and brought Microsoft to the city. Taking a jibe at PM Modi he said, "Money for bullet train is being given to Mumbai, Delhi but not Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. I supported demonetisation but today we are not able to find money in ATM`s and not able to spend our own money."

Slamming the BJP at the Centre, he said, "I was the only person to raise my voice in parliament in the matter of triple talaq. We waited for four years and waited but we didn`t get any support from them, that is the reason I came out from NDA and passed no-confidence motion for the first."Evoking the BJP`s defeat in the Karnataka polls, he said, "

The same what had happened in Karnataka elections will be repeated even here in Telangana."He further said that all the state parties are bonding together for the development of the country."We will even take care of the state public along. We all will work together" he said.

His comments came after Telegu Desam Party supporters raised slogans at the Mahanadu meeting in Hyderabad saying that Chandrababu Naidu should become the Prime Minister

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandra Babu Naidu on Thursday said that he has no ambition to become the prime minister of the country. This came after Telegu Desam Party supporters raised slogans at the Mahanadu meeting in Hyderabad saying that Chandrababu Naidu should become the Prime Minister. TDP Mahanadu started on Thursday afternoon in Nampally exhibition grounds in Hyderabad. The event started with L. Ramana Rao paying tributes to late NT Rama Rao. Devender Goud, senior leader of TDP, R. Krishnayya and many other leaders were present in the event. Chandra Babu Naidu was the main chief guest for this event.CM Naidu said, "Although we are not in power for 14 years, now I have confidence that we can carry this flag on our shoulders by witnessing your support for me. You people were support for the party. You were growing for four years and now I am feeling that no one stop you people. No one can do anything in the coming elections in 2019." In his speech, he said Telugu Desam Party government was the one who met Bill Gates several times and brought Microsoft to the city. Taking a jibe at PM Modi he said, "Money for bullet train is being given to Mumbai, Delhi but not Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. I supported demonetisation but today we are not able to find money in ATM`s and not able to spend our own money." Slamming the BJP at the Centre, he said, "I was the only person to raise my voice in parliament in the matter of triple talaq. We waited for four years and waited but we didn`t get any support from them, that is the reason I came out from NDA and passed no-confidence motion for the first."Evoking the BJP`s defeat in the Karnataka polls, he said, " The same what had happened in Karnataka elections will be repeated even here in Telangana."He further said that all the state parties are bonding together for the development of the country."We will even take care of the state public along. We all will work together" he said.

No ambition of becoming Prime Minister: Chandra Babu Naidu

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-take-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-today-139001">HD Kumaraswamy to be sworn in as Karnataka Chief Minister today, floor test tomorrow</a>

Alongside Kumaraswamy, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President G. Parameshwara will take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-at-least-11-killed-in-clashes-with-police-over-protests-against-sterlite-plant-139005">Tamil Nadu: At least 11 killed in clashes with police over protests against Sterlite copper plant</a>

As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-militants-killed-hindu-villagers-in-myanmar-violence-amnesty-international-139009">Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International</a>

Campaign group Amnesty International said on Tuesday it had gathered evidence that insurgents from a Rohingya Muslim armed group killed scores of Hindu civilians in August last year, amid a surge in violence in western Myanmar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-expels-us-diplomats-rejects-sanctions-138999">Venezuela's Maduro expels US diplomats, rejects sanctions</a>

Venezuela ordered the expulsion of the top two US diplomats in the country Tuesday, charging it was the victim of a "political and financial lynching" after Washington tightened sanctions over Nicolas Maduro's re-election.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-face-off-eu-gets-little-news-from-zuckerberg-about-social-networks-data-policies--139003">Facebook face-off: EU gets little news from Zuckerberg about social network's data policies</a>

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sailed through a grilling from EU lawmakers about the social network's data policies as lengthy questions left the 34-year-old American little time to answer.

HD Kumaraswamy to be sworn in as Karnataka Chief Minister today, floor test tomorrow Alongside Kumaraswamy, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President G. Parameshwara will take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister. Tamil Nadu: At least 11 killed in clashes with police over protests against Sterlite copper plant As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday. Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International Campaign group Amnesty International said on Tuesday it had gathered evidence that insurgents from a Rohingya Muslim armed group killed scores of Hindu civilians in August last year, amid a surge in violence in western Myanmar. Venezuela's Maduro expels US diplomats, rejects sanctions Venezuela ordered the expulsion of the top two US diplomats in the country Tuesday, charging it was the victim of a "political and financial lynching" after Washington tightened sanctions over Nicolas Maduro's re-election. Facebook face-off: EU gets little news from Zuckerberg about social network's data policies Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sailed through a grilling from EU lawmakers about the social network's data policies as lengthy questions left the 34-year-old American little time to answer.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The final Congress-JD(S) deal is expected to be hammered out today in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy — who will be sworn in as chief minister of Karnataka on Wednesday — met Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday in Delhi.&nbsp;

Rahul described the meeting as "cordial".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-win-in-karnataka-encouraging-formation-of-federal-front-against-bjp-138306">Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of 'federal front' against BJP</a>

But issues remain.&nbsp;

The Congress for one reportedly wants two deputy chief ministers. The Congress has 78 MLAs in Karnataka, the JD(S) has 37. (The latter won 38 seats but Kumaraswamy had contested, and won, from two seats.)&nbsp;

The Congress believes having two deputy CMs will even out the balance of power.&nbsp;

The JD(S) would rather have one.&nbsp;

The speaker's post, however, news reports said Tuesday, will go to the Congress.&nbsp;

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Speaker for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> Assembly will be from Congress. Name likely to be announced by evening by local leaders: Sources
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998815050180710400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress is also expected to get anywhere up to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumaraswamy-to-meet-sonia-rahul-today-in-delhi-congress-may-get-20-seats-in-karnatakas-33-member-cabinet-138488">20 seats</a> in the 33-member Karnataka cabinet.&nbsp;

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I had a warm and cordial meeting this evening, in Delhi, with Shri H D Kumaraswamy ji. We discussed the political situation in Karnataka and other matters of mutual interest. I will be attending his swearing in as CM of Karnataka, on Wednesday, in Bengaluru. <a href="https://t.co/sZAwX8mQut">pic.twitter.com/sZAwX8mQut</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/998573614508249089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The reports added that the parties are also likely to set up a coordination committee and to draft a common minimum programme.

The reports quoted Kumaraswamy as saying that Rahul had "cleared the modalities". And that AICC general secretary in-charge of Karnataka KC&nbsp;Venugopal would hammer out the final details today in Bengaluru.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy — who will be sworn in as chief minister of Karnataka on Wednesday — met Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday in Delhi

The final Congress-JD(S) deal is expected to be hammered out today in Bengaluru. The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy — who will be sworn in as chief minister of Karnataka on Wednesday — met Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday in Delhi. Rahul described the meeting as "cordial". Also read: Congress-JD(S) win in Karnataka encouraging formation of 'federal front' against BJP But issues remain. The Congress for one reportedly wants two deputy chief ministers. The Congress has 78 MLAs in Karnataka, the JD(S) has 37. (The latter won 38 seats but Kumaraswamy had contested, and won, from two seats.) The Congress believes having two deputy CMs will even out the balance of power. The JD(S) would rather have one. The speaker's post, however, news reports said Tuesday, will go to the Congress. Speaker for #Karnataka Assembly will be from Congress. Name likely to be announced by evening by local leaders: Sources — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × The Congress is also expected to get anywhere up to 20 seats in the 33-member Karnataka cabinet. I had a warm and cordial meeting this evening, in Delhi, with Shri H D Kumaraswamy ji. We discussed the political situation in Karnataka and other matters of mutual interest. I will be attending his swearing in as CM of Karnataka, on Wednesday, in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/sZAwX8mQut — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 21, 2018 × The reports added that the parties are also likely to set up a coordination committee and to draft a common minimum programme. The reports quoted Kumaraswamy as saying that Rahul had "cleared the modalities". And that AICC general secretary in-charge of Karnataka KC Venugopal would hammer out the final details today in Bengaluru.

Karnataka: Final Congress-JD(S) deal to be hammered out today

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be questioned by Delhi Police on May in 18 in connection with the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/breakdown-of-governance-say-ias-officers-after-delhi-chief-secretary-alleges-assault-by-aap-mlas-33465">assault on the state's chief secretary</a>.&nbsp

The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary &nbspAnshu Prakash took place in February.&nbsp

News channels later showed visuals of Prakash — caught on CCTV — walking out of the chief minister's residence.&nbsp

He later claimed he had been assaulted there by two AAP ministers and that the attack on him had taken place in front of Kejriwal.&nbsp

Prakash had reportedly been summoned to the chief minister's residence to discuss the distribution of below-poverty-line rations which Delhi's AAP government said was being stymied by the faulty implementation of Aadhaar.&nbsp

The AAP later put out a statement calling Prakash's allegations "ludicrous".&nbsp

They added that Prakash had told the MLAs that he was not answerable to them, only to the Lieutenant Governor.&nbsp

And that Prakash had "used bad language" with the MLAs.&nbsp

The two AAP MLAs accused of the assault later surrendered&nbspto police.&nbsp 
&nbsp

The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, by AAP MLAs, took place in February

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be questioned by Delhi Police on May in 18 in connection with the assault on the state's chief secretary. The alleged assault on Delhi Chief Secretary &nbspAnshu Prakash took place in February. News channels later showed visuals of Prakash — caught on CCTV — walking out of the chief minister's residence. He later claimed he had been assaulted there by two AAP ministers and that the attack on him had taken place in front of Kejriwal. Prakash had reportedly been summoned to the chief minister's residence to discuss the distribution of below-poverty-line rations which Delhi's AAP government said was being stymied by the faulty implementation of Aadhaar. The AAP later put out a statement calling Prakash's allegations "ludicrous". They added that Prakash had told the MLAs that he was not answerable to them, only to the Lieutenant Governor. And that Prakash had "used bad language" with the MLAs. The two AAP MLAs accused of the assault later surrendered&nbspto police.

Chief Secretary assault case: Delhi CM Kejriwal to be questioned by police on May 18

The Congress and the JD(S), in a unanimous decision, have decided to name HD Kumaraswamy as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The political powerplay in Karnataka took an interesting turn today when the BJP, despite, winning the most seats couldn't rise to power and Rahul Gandhi-led Congress didn't bat an eye in extending support to HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular).&nbsp;

According to reports, Former Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi had a telephonic conversation with the JD(S) chief Deve Gowda to form an alliance. The Congress also offered the JD(S) to choose the Chief Ministerial of their choice, HD Kumaraswamy was handed over the baton.

JD(S) state chief and former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had previously conceded that the assembly polls are a "battle for survival" for the JD(S) the party had been out of power for nearly a decade.

Kumaraswamy's political journey began in the year 1996. He started by winning that year's Lok Sabha elections from Kanakapura seat. Kumaraswamy rose to power in 2004 when the state elections resulted in a hung assembly and the JD(S) joined hands with the Congress to form a government he later called off the alliance, formed a government and assumed office as the 18th Chief Minister of Karnataka in 2006.&nbsp;

In October 2007, Kumaraswamy stepped down in what the party described as a 'power-sharing pact' with the BJP. BS Yeddyurappa succeeded him in November 2007.

This time around, opinion polls predicted a hung assembly, but the scenario was slightly different. JD(S) could have been sidelined as a customary kingmaker again, instead, the Congress politely placed the ball in Deve Gowda's hand who crowned his prince Karnataka's king.

Away from the limelight, that always shone brightly on BJP's Yeddyurappa and Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kumaraswamy wearily worked towards pulling his party out of the role of a mere kingmaker.&nbsp;

While campaigning for assembly polls this year, Kumaraswamy looked defiant and confident of emerging as a king. He is known to have tasted both the sides - when his party sided with the Congress to form a coalition and also when he gave it all away to the BJP in 2007.&nbsp;

But, having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way.

He was done with facilitating the political dreams of others and decided to steer his party on road to power.

Having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way

The Congress and the JD(S), in a unanimous decision, have decided to name HD Kumaraswamy as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The political powerplay in Karnataka took an interesting turn today when the BJP, despite, winning the most seats couldn't rise to power and Rahul Gandhi-led Congress didn't bat an eye in extending support to HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular). According to reports, Former Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi had a telephonic conversation with the JD(S) chief Deve Gowda to form an alliance. The Congress also offered the JD(S) to choose the Chief Ministerial of their choice, HD Kumaraswamy was handed over the baton. JD(S) state chief and former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy had previously conceded that the assembly polls are a "battle for survival" for the JD(S) the party had been out of power for nearly a decade. Kumaraswamy's political journey began in the year 1996. He started by winning that year's Lok Sabha elections from Kanakapura seat. Kumaraswamy rose to power in 2004 when the state elections resulted in a hung assembly and the JD(S) joined hands with the Congress to form a government he later called off the alliance, formed a government and assumed office as the 18th Chief Minister of Karnataka in 2006. In October 2007, Kumaraswamy stepped down in what the party described as a 'power-sharing pact' with the BJP. BS Yeddyurappa succeeded him in November 2007. This time around, opinion polls predicted a hung assembly, but the scenario was slightly different. JD(S) could have been sidelined as a customary kingmaker again, instead, the Congress politely placed the ball in Deve Gowda's hand who crowned his prince Karnataka's king. Away from the limelight, that always shone brightly on BJP's Yeddyurappa and Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Kumaraswamy wearily worked towards pulling his party out of the role of a mere kingmaker. While campaigning for assembly polls this year, Kumaraswamy looked defiant and confident of emerging as a king. He is known to have tasted both the sides - when his party sided with the Congress to form a coalition and also when he gave it all away to the BJP in 2007. But, having missed the taste of power for over a decade, former prime minister's son realised the importance of assuming power the tough way. He was done with facilitating the political dreams of others and decided to steer his party on road to power.

Kingmaker assumes power: HD Kumaraswamy holds seat as Karnataka's Chief Minister

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the Himachal Pradesh government today transferred 18 senior IAS officers, including six officers of additional chief secretary rank.

Additional chief secretary-cum-Principal Secretary to chief minister Manisha Nanda has been replaced by Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Srikant Baldi, an official release said.

Nanda has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department.

Additional Chief Secretary B K Agarwal has been given the charge of Home and Vigilance department. He would also hold the additional charge of health and family welfare, the release said.

Anil Kumar Khachi, Secretary (PWD) would now hold the charge of finance, planning, economics and statistics, it said.

Additional Chief Secretary Ram Subhag Singh, holding the charge of revenue and transport, has been posted as additional chief secretary of tourism and civil aviation with the additional charge of urban development.

Tarun Kapoor, the Additional Chief Secretary of forest, town and country planning, urban development and housing has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary MPP and power, forest, environment, science and technology.

Additional chief secretary-cum-Principal Secretary to chief minister Manisha Nanda has been replaced by Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Srikant Baldi, an official release said.

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, the Himachal Pradesh government today transferred 18 senior IAS officers, including six officers of additional chief secretary rank. Additional chief secretary-cum-Principal Secretary to chief minister Manisha Nanda has been replaced by Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Srikant Baldi, an official release said. Nanda has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department. Additional Chief Secretary B K Agarwal has been given the charge of Home and Vigilance department. He would also hold the additional charge of health and family welfare, the release said. Anil Kumar Khachi, Secretary (PWD) would now hold the charge of finance, planning, economics and statistics, it said. Additional Chief Secretary Ram Subhag Singh, holding the charge of revenue and transport, has been posted as additional chief secretary of tourism and civil aviation with the additional charge of urban development. Tarun Kapoor, the Additional Chief Secretary of forest, town and country planning, urban development and housing has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary MPP and power, forest, environment, science and technology.

18 IAS officers transferred in Himachal Pradesh

Panchkula special CBI court has granted bail to former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda in <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-charge-sheet-against-former-cm-hooda-in-manesar-land-case-31592">Manesar land scam</a>.&nbsp;The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered a case in September 2015 on allegations that private builders in conspiracy with public servants of the Haryana government had acquired land from farmers and landowners of Manesar at throwaway prices.

The land was reportedly purchased showing the threat of acquisition by the government.

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Manesar land deal case: Panchkula Special CBI Court grants bail to former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/qZoXZSgmtB">pic.twitter.com/qZoXZSgmtB</a>
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The CBI had filed a charge sheet against Hooda and 33 others in a case of alleged corruption in Manesar land deals worth over Rs 1,500 crore. Twenty-nine builders and companies were also named in the charge sheet.

It is alleged that on August 27, 2004, and August 25, 2005, the Haryana government issued separate notifications for the acquisition of 912 acres of land for setting up an industrial model township at Manesar, Naurangpur and Lakhnoula villages in Gurgaon.

Threatening the farmers with the government's acquisition process, builders allegedly purchased around 459 acres from farmers at prices in the range of Rs 20-25 lakh per acre to Rs 1.50 crore per acre, according to CBI.

Around 350 acres of land were bought at a throwaway price of Rs 20-25 lakh per acre, while another 50 acres at the rate of even Rs 1.50 crore (approx) per acre, the agency said.

In 2007, the builders reportedly gave a plea in the office of the then chief minister, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, seeking withdrawal of the acquisition process which was done two months later on August 24, the CBI said.

The CBI had filed a charge sheet against Hooda and 33 others in a case of alleged corruption in Manesar land deals worth over Rs 1,500 crore

Panchkula special CBI court has granted bail to former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda in Manesar land scam. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered a case in September 2015 on allegations that private builders in conspiracy with public servants of the Haryana government had acquired land from farmers and landowners of Manesar at throwaway prices. The land was reportedly purchased showing the threat of acquisition by the government. Manesar land deal case: Panchkula Special CBI Court grants bail to former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda (File pic) pic.twitter.com/qZoXZSgmtB — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2018 × The CBI had filed a charge sheet against Hooda and 33 others in a case of alleged corruption in Manesar land deals worth over Rs 1,500 crore. Twenty-nine builders and companies were also named in the charge sheet. It is alleged that on August 27, 2004, and August 25, 2005, the Haryana government issued separate notifications for the acquisition of 912 acres of land for setting up an industrial model township at Manesar, Naurangpur and Lakhnoula villages in Gurgaon. Threatening the farmers with the government's acquisition process, builders allegedly purchased around 459 acres from farmers at prices in the range of Rs 20-25 lakh per acre to Rs 1.50 crore per acre, according to CBI. Around 350 acres of land were bought at a throwaway price of Rs 20-25 lakh per acre, while another 50 acres at the rate of even Rs 1.50 crore (approx) per acre, the agency said. In 2007, the builders reportedly gave a plea in the office of the then chief minister, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, seeking withdrawal of the acquisition process which was done two months later on August 24, the CBI said.

Manesar land deal scam: Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda gets bail

Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim scripted history in India on April 28 by becoming the longest serving Chief Minister of the country. On April 28, Chamling surpassed the record held by Jyoti Basu as the longest-serving Chief Minister of India.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Dr Raman Singh of Chhattisgarh, who is the longest-serving CM from the BJP and Naveen Patnaik, Odisha’s longest-serving CM—are in the race to clinch fourth and fifth terms in their states.

While veteran communist Jyoti Basu ruled West Bengal for 23 years from June 21, 1977 till November 6, 2000, Pawan Kumar Chamling became Chief Minister of the Himalayan state on December 12, 1994 and completed his 24th year in office on Sunday.

Chamling is set to take the record to another distance given that there is still one year more to go in his fifth term as the Chief Minister of Sikkim.&nbsp;

Here’s all you need to know about Pawan Chamling:

Chamling, born on September 22, 1950, is the fifth and incumbent Chief Minister of the northeastern state- Sikkim.

Chamling is the second chief minister in India after Jyoti Basu, of West Bengal to govern a state five terms in a row.

Chamling’s party Sikkim Democratic Front winning the 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014 Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections.

Chamling, who started his political journey in 1973 is the founder president of the Sikkim Democratic Front, which has governed the state for five successive terms since 1994

Prior to establishing the Sikkim Democratic Front, Chamling served as Minister for Industries, Information and Public Relations from 1989 to 1992 in the Nar Bahadur Bhandari cabinet.

In 1982, Chamling was chosen the president of Yangang Gram Panchayat unopposed. After three years, he became an MLA.

In 1989, he won the Assembly election with a record 97 percent of the total vote cast and became a Cabinet minister in the Nar Bahadur Bhandari ministry.

In 1993, Chamling founded the Sikkim Democratic Front that secured a majority in the Assembly polls the next year.

Since 1993, he has seen only success—in 2009, Chamling’s popularity was so high that he won all the 32 Assembly seats and the lone Lok Sabha seat.

Under Chamling’s leadership, Sikkim is one of the fastest growing states as its GDP between 2011-12 and 2016-17 expanded at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.05 percent to $2.93 billion whereas the Net State Domestic Product grew at a CAGR of 11.30 percent to $2.58 billion.

Though Chamling claimed growth, former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia, who recently launched his Hamro Sikkim Party in New Delhi, vowed to fight the 2019 Assembly elections on the planks of corruption, urban-rural growth gap and environmental degradation through dams. Bhaichung is enormously popular in the state and may emerge as a game changer with his hard-hitting issues.

Of the 32 Assembly seats, ruling SDF has 29 MLAs while opposition Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has only 2 seats. The lone independent MLA is a brother of the Chief Minister.

Sikkim CM Pawan Kumar Chamling on Sunday surpassed the record of former West Bengal CM Jyoti Basu by becoming the longest serving Chief Minister of any Indian state.

Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim scripted history in India on April 28 by becoming the longest serving Chief Minister of the country. On April 28, Chamling surpassed the record held by Jyoti Basu as the longest-serving Chief Minister of India. Meanwhile, Dr Raman Singh of Chhattisgarh, who is the longest-serving CM from the BJP and Naveen Patnaik, Odisha’s longest-serving CM—are in the race to clinch fourth and fifth terms in their states. While veteran communist Jyoti Basu ruled West Bengal for 23 years from June 21, 1977 till November 6, 2000, Pawan Kumar Chamling became Chief Minister of the Himalayan state on December 12, 1994 and completed his 24th year in office on Sunday. Chamling is set to take the record to another distance given that there is still one year more to go in his fifth term as the Chief Minister of Sikkim. Here’s all you need to know about Pawan Chamling: Chamling, born on September 22, 1950, is the fifth and incumbent Chief Minister of the northeastern state- Sikkim. Chamling is the second chief minister in India after Jyoti Basu, of West Bengal to govern a state five terms in a row. Chamling’s party Sikkim Democratic Front winning the 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014 Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections. Chamling, who started his political journey in 1973 is the founder president of the Sikkim Democratic Front, which has governed the state for five successive terms since 1994 Prior to establishing the Sikkim Democratic Front, Chamling served as Minister for Industries, Information and Public Relations from 1989 to 1992 in the Nar Bahadur Bhandari cabinet. In 1982, Chamling was chosen the president of Yangang Gram Panchayat unopposed. After three years, he became an MLA. In 1989, he won the Assembly election with a record 97 percent of the total vote cast and became a Cabinet minister in the Nar Bahadur Bhandari ministry. In 1993, Chamling founded the Sikkim Democratic Front that secured a majority in the Assembly polls the next year. Since 1993, he has seen only success—in 2009, Chamling’s popularity was so high that he won all the 32 Assembly seats and the lone Lok Sabha seat. Under Chamling’s leadership, Sikkim is one of the fastest growing states as its GDP between 2011-12 and 2016-17 expanded at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.05 percent to $2.93 billion whereas the Net State Domestic Product grew at a CAGR of 11.30 percent to $2.58 billion. Though Chamling claimed growth, former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia, who recently launched his Hamro Sikkim Party in New Delhi, vowed to fight the 2019 Assembly elections on the planks of corruption, urban-rural growth gap and environmental degradation through dams. Bhaichung is enormously popular in the state and may emerge as a game changer with his hard-hitting issues. Of the 32 Assembly seats, ruling SDF has 29 MLAs while opposition Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has only 2 seats. The lone independent MLA is a brother of the Chief Minister.

Sikkim's Pawan Chamling becomes longest serving Chief Minister, surpasses Jyoti Basu

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S.

Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country.

He spoke to WION on a plethora of issue ranging from the Lingayats to a separate state flag for Karnataka to Bengaluru's dying lakes. Siddaramaiah's entire interview to WION follows:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Q: What makes you so confident that Congress can buck the trend of Karnataka not giving a repeat term to any government?

A: We have given good governance. Law and order is much better than previous governments. Lot of investments have come to Karnataka which is far better than other states. So, we have done well on many fronts.

Q: How have schemes like Indira Canteen and Anna Bhagya done?

A: Four crore people of Karnataka have benefitted from Anna Bhagya scheme. Seven kg of rice per head is being given free of cost. We are the only government distributing rice free of cost. We are also giving five rupees subsidy per litre to milk farmers. We are giving loans to farmers without interest up to three lakh. Certain categories of loans have been waived. We are giving milk to 1.2 crore schoolgoing children. We have taken up a number of welfare schemes to help poor. Similar support is also being extended in the education sector. We have also provided laptops. This budget, I announced that girl students will be given free education and also free bus pass to students coming to schools.

Q: What have you done in the agriculture sector and secondly, there was a lot of acrimony between you and the Centre over the issue of fund allocation?

A: Centre provided us money under norms. We were facing unprecedented drought but still they gave us funds according to the norms. Centre did not provide us additional funds. I even requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked him to waive the loans but prime minister did not agree.

Q: Are you saying that Karnataka was discriminated against?

A: &nbsp;As per the NDRF funds are concerned, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu got more funds than us. Karnataka is getting less funds. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-mos-to-wion-ruling-party-not-facing-anti-incumbency-for-first-time-in-30-years-130659">It is discrimination</a>. I requested the Prime Minister to set aside the injustice being done to Karnataka.

Q: You had strong issues pertaining to the 15th Finance Commission?

A: Population cannot be a criteria for fund. UP and Bihar have not implemented family programme and they are getting more money. We have implemented it and we are ending up getting less money. It is not fair.

Q: Why did you shift your seat?

A: Two years back, my son was looking after the constituency and I had announced that I’m not going to fight the elections. My son passed away last year and my second son started looking after the constituency. Now people want him to contest. Chamundeshwari was my old constituency. I have successfully contested elections from the seat. I have been in touch with the people. It is a neighbouring constituency.

Q: The BJP and JD-S are happy as they feel they can tie the chief minister down to a single seat?

A: They are living in an illusion. They cannot tie me down to a seat. They are trying to defeat me. BJP and JD-S were together in a coalition. I contested as an independent when Kumaraswamy was the Chief Minister and Yeddyurappa was the deputy CM. Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy sat there for days. Even then, I got elected.

Q: Are you worried about the infighting which has erupted post ticket distribution in the Congress?

A: Only <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-struggles-to-contain-dissent-in-karnataka-congress-after-ticket-distribution-130902">four or five constituencies are affected</a>. But we are trying to tackle the issue.

Q: Do you feel that the southern perspective of a strong cultural identity of a state does not match with the northern experience of a Union?

A: The states were recognised on the basis of languages and it should remain supreme in each state. We are in federal structure and we want our language to be respected. Regional languages should reign supreme. Likewise, Lingayat religious issue was not created by us.

It was established by Basvanna in 12th century. The community wants a separate tag. All the representatives of the community met me two years ago. They said that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are separate. I referred the matter to the state Minority Commission. &nbsp;The Minority Commission, in turn, constituted an expert committee under a high court judge whose recommendation was accepted by us and which we forwarded to the Centre.

Q: The BJP says this is divide and rule...

A: This proposal also existed during BJP’s regime. We did not initiate it. In this context, they had met both Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi.

Q: What about the flag?

A: Is there a provision that states should not have own flag? In the United States, every state has its own flag so why not Karnataka. The national flag is flying above the state flag. We can have a state flag.

Q: Has Siddaramaiah become a symbol of regional pride?

A: I’m proud to say that I’m a Kannadiga and am proud to be a symbol of Kannadiga pride.

Q: Congress is organisationally weak and Modi, on the other hand, has the capacity to turn around an election? Can Modi do a Gujarat in Karnataka?&nbsp;

A: Karnataka cannot be compared with Gujarat. BJP was in power in Gujarat. Our party structure was not strong in Gujarat. Compared to previous elections, our performance was good in Gujarat. BJP cannot play a communal card in the state. People like secularism here and they will not tolerate communal card.

Q: Is Karnataka going to be an antidote to the BJP’s cultural nationalism?

A: Karnataka is being looked at by the entire country. Congress will come to power and will prove to be a stepping stone for the national politics. Modi’s government has failed. They have not fulfilled a single promise to the people of Karnataka. Look what Andhra Pradesh CM Chandra Babu Nadu is saying. Modi could not even keep the promise to the people of Andhra Pradesh.

Q: Is the Third Front a good idea for the Congress?

A: Congress and all like-minded parties should come together and fight communal elements and Congress must take a leading role.

Q: Is this election about Siddaramaiah vs Modi or Siddaramaiah vs Yeddyurappa?

A: This election is about me and Yeddyurappa. This election is about the people of Karnataka. People have to choose between me and Yeddyurappa and not Modi.

Q: I think you forgot about the JD-S. Surveys have shown strong Vokaligga consolidation for the JD-S?

A: JD-S is a regional party confined to six to seven districts in southern Karnataka. Their presence is meagre in the northern part of the state. They cannot win more than 20 to 25 seats.

Q: There was a time when Kumaraswamy went on to become the chief minister?

A: Kumaraswamy is an illusion. He is thinking of a hung assembly where he thinks that he will get to play the role of a kingmaker. This situation will not arise at all. Congress party is going to form the government in Karnataka.

Q: Don’t you think that the JD-S has been able to use the Cauvery issue?

A: How will it help JD-S? There was a tribunal order and the Karnataka government went in for appeal against it to the Supreme Court. The judgement of the tribunal was modified. 14.75 TMC of water was additionally allotted to us. JD-S cannot take advantage of this issue. People of Karnataka were happy with the Cauvery judgement.

Q: So the JD-S is not a player in the state?

A: They are not our main rival. In the&nbsp;north, we fight BJP and in south Karnataka, JD-S.

Q: What has your administration done to curb the violence rocking coastal Karnataka?

A: BJP is trying to mislead people. Law and Order situation is good in the coastal areas. They claim that 24 BJP workers have been killed by SDPI. It is not correct. Yes, 12 BJP workers have died and rest belong to other groups. It is claimed that all of them are BJP workers which is not true. Some of them were not even communal clashes.

Q: Rationalists have been targeted in your state? What have you done to protect them?

A: It is not only in Karnataka. People were also targeted in Maharashtra. The investigation is going on. They are organised criminals. In Gauri Lankesh’s case, there is considerable progress. Kalburgi’s case has already been referred to the CBI.

Q: The dying lakes of Bengaluru get a lot of global attention. What have you done to save them and what do you intend to do?

A: We have to provide world-class infrastructure to Bengaluru. All the lakes have to be developed and beautified. We need to tackle the garbage problem including congestion. These are the urgent urban issues which we intend to solve if we come to power again. 
&nbsp; 
Q: What should the Congress do to revive itself nationally? What is your advice to Rahul Gandhi?

A: Electoral victory in Karnataka will revive the Congress Party nationally. We will capture power in the Centre. Modi’s popularity is declining quickly. They will not win 2019 elections. BJP will not make it to the Centre again. Like-minded parties must come together to defeat BJP for Lok Sabha elections.

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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah added that like-minded parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections

With the Karnataka elections just around the corner, chief minister Siddaramaiah is locked in a tight triangular contest with the BJP and the JD-S. Siddaramaiah says the Congress will come to power in Karnataka, paving the way for his party’s revival in the rest of the country. He spoke to WION on a plethora of issue ranging from the Lingayats to a separate state flag for Karnataka to Bengaluru's dying lakes. Siddaramaiah's entire interview to WION follows: Q: What makes you so confident that Congress can buck the trend of Karnataka not giving a repeat term to any government? A: We have given good governance. Law and order is much better than previous governments. Lot of investments have come to Karnataka which is far better than other states. So, we have done well on many fronts. Q: How have schemes like Indira Canteen and Anna Bhagya done? A: Four crore people of Karnataka have benefitted from Anna Bhagya scheme. Seven kg of rice per head is being given free of cost. We are the only government distributing rice free of cost. We are also giving five rupees subsidy per litre to milk farmers. We are giving loans to farmers without interest up to three lakh. Certain categories of loans have been waived. We are giving milk to 1.2 crore schoolgoing children. We have taken up a number of welfare schemes to help poor. Similar support is also being extended in the education sector. We have also provided laptops. This budget, I announced that girl students will be given free education and also free bus pass to students coming to schools. Q: What have you done in the agriculture sector and secondly, there was a lot of acrimony between you and the Centre over the issue of fund allocation? A: Centre provided us money under norms. We were facing unprecedented drought but still they gave us funds according to the norms. Centre did not provide us additional funds. I even requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked him to waive the loans but prime minister did not agree. Q: Are you saying that Karnataka was discriminated against? A: As per the NDRF funds are concerned, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu got more funds than us. Karnataka is getting less funds. It is discrimination. I requested the Prime Minister to set aside the injustice being done to Karnataka. Q: You had strong issues pertaining to the 15th Finance Commission? A: Population cannot be a criteria for fund. UP and Bihar have not implemented family programme and they are getting more money. We have implemented it and we are ending up getting less money. It is not fair. Q: Why did you shift your seat? A: Two years back, my son was looking after the constituency and I had announced that I’m not going to fight the elections. My son passed away last year and my second son started looking after the constituency. Now people want him to contest. Chamundeshwari was my old constituency. I have successfully contested elections from the seat. I have been in touch with the people. It is a neighbouring constituency. Q: The BJP and JD-S are happy as they feel they can tie the chief minister down to a single seat? A: They are living in an illusion. They cannot tie me down to a seat. They are trying to defeat me. BJP and JD-S were together in a coalition. I contested as an independent when Kumaraswamy was the Chief Minister and Yeddyurappa was the deputy CM. Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy sat there for days. Even then, I got elected. Q: Are you worried about the infighting which has erupted post ticket distribution in the Congress? A: Only four or five constituencies are affected. But we are trying to tackle the issue. Q: Do you feel that the southern perspective of a strong cultural identity of a state does not match with the northern experience of a Union? A: The states were recognised on the basis of languages and it should remain supreme in each state. We are in federal structure and we want our language to be respected. Regional languages should reign supreme. Likewise, Lingayat religious issue was not created by us. It was established by Basvanna in 12th century. The community wants a separate tag. All the representatives of the community met me two years ago. They said that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are separate. I referred the matter to the state Minority Commission. The Minority Commission, in turn, constituted an expert committee under a high court judge whose recommendation was accepted by us and which we forwarded to the Centre. Q: The BJP says this is divide and rule... A: This proposal also existed during BJP’s regime. We did not initiate it. In this context, they had met both Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi. Q: What about the flag? A: Is there a provision that states should not have own flag? In the United States, every state has its own flag so why not Karnataka. The national flag is flying above the state flag. We can have a state flag. Q: Has Siddaramaiah become a symbol of regional pride? A: I’m proud to say that I’m a Kannadiga and am proud to be a symbol of Kannadiga pride. Q: Congress is organisationally weak and Modi, on the other hand, has the capacity to turn around an election? Can Modi do a Gujarat in Karnataka? A: Karnataka cannot be compared with Gujarat. BJP was in power in Gujarat. Our party structure was not strong in Gujarat. Compared to previous elections, our performance was good in Gujarat. BJP cannot play a communal card in the state. People like secularism here and they will not tolerate communal card. Q: Is Karnataka going to be an antidote to the BJP’s cultural nationalism? A: Karnataka is being looked at by the entire country. Congress will come to power and will prove to be a stepping stone for the national politics. Modi’s government has failed. They have not fulfilled a single promise to the people of Karnataka. Look what Andhra Pradesh CM Chandra Babu Nadu is saying. Modi could not even keep the promise to the people of Andhra Pradesh. Q: Is the Third Front a good idea for the Congress? A: Congress and all like-minded parties should come together and fight communal elements and Congress must take a leading role. Q: Is this election about Siddaramaiah vs Modi or Siddaramaiah vs Yeddyurappa? A: This election is about me and Yeddyurappa. This election is about the people of Karnataka. People have to choose between me and Yeddyurappa and not Modi. Q: I think you forgot about the JD-S. Surveys have shown strong Vokaligga consolidation for the JD-S? A: JD-S is a regional party confined to six to seven districts in southern Karnataka. Their presence is meagre in the northern part of the state. They cannot win more than 20 to 25 seats. Q: There was a time when Kumaraswamy went on to become the chief minister? A: Kumaraswamy is an illusion. He is thinking of a hung assembly where he thinks that he will get to play the role of a kingmaker. This situation will not arise at all. Congress party is going to form the government in Karnataka. Q: Don’t you think that the JD-S has been able to use the Cauvery issue? A: How will it help JD-S? There was a tribunal order and the Karnataka government went in for appeal against it to the Supreme Court. The judgement of the tribunal was modified. 14.75 TMC of water was additionally allotted to us. JD-S cannot take advantage of this issue. People of Karnataka were happy with the Cauvery judgement. Q: So the JD-S is not a player in the state? A: They are not our main rival. In the north, we fight BJP and in south Karnataka, JD-S. Q: What has your administration done to curb the violence rocking coastal Karnataka? A: BJP is trying to mislead people. Law and Order situation is good in the coastal areas. They claim that 24 BJP workers have been killed by SDPI. It is not correct. Yes, 12 BJP workers have died and rest belong to other groups. It is claimed that all of them are BJP workers which is not true. Some of them were not even communal clashes. Q: Rationalists have been targeted in your state? What have you done to protect them? A: It is not only in Karnataka. People were also targeted in Maharashtra. The investigation is going on. They are organised criminals. In Gauri Lankesh’s case, there is considerable progress. Kalburgi’s case has already been referred to the CBI. Q: The dying lakes of Bengaluru get a lot of global attention. What have you done to save them and what do you intend to do? A: We have to provide world-class infrastructure to Bengaluru. All the lakes have to be developed and beautified. We need to tackle the garbage problem including congestion. These are the urgent urban issues which we intend to solve if we come to power again. Q: What should the Congress do to revive itself nationally? What is your advice to Rahul Gandhi? A: Electoral victory in Karnataka will revive the Congress Party nationally. We will capture power in the Centre. Modi’s popularity is declining quickly. They will not win 2019 elections. BJP will not make it to the Centre again. Like-minded parties must come together to defeat BJP for Lok Sabha elections.

Lingayat religious issue not created by us: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to WION

The sister of the alleged UP rape victim has lashed out at the authorities saying, "My father has already died and now they say action will be taken."&nbsp

"I just want that FIR be written against Arun Singh and Kuldeep Singh and they be arrested. I want justice," she added.&nbsp&nbsp

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said Monday that the people at fault, whomsover they might be, will not be spared.&nbsp

The finger of accusation has so far been pointed at a politician from Adityanath's BJP party — Kuldeep Singh Sengar, the BJP MLA from Unnao.&nbsp

The rape victim and her family had on Sunday attempted suicide outside Adityanath's residence, which is when the story hit the national headlines.&nbsp

The woman and her family had alleged then that she was raped by the BJP MLA and his fellow accomplices, and that no action had been taken so far.

She added that she and her family were threatened after they filed an FIR, which the police registered after stalling for a year.

The family further alleged that Sengar's brother had thrashed the victim's father on April 3 for refusing to cancel the FIR, but that the police booked the father and locked him up.&nbsp

The father died Monday morning, in police custody.&nbsp

Police have now arrested four persons accused of beating the father, and suspended four cops — two officers and four constables.&nbsp

Sengar has so far denied the allegations and called it a conspiracy hatched by his political opponents.&nbsp

On Monday, he said he would not resign:&nbsp

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Kuldeep Singh Sengar, BJP MLA from Unnao against whom a woman leveled rape allegations,rules out resignation. Says 'Naam kisi ka aane se koi isteefa de deta hai?' <a href="https://t.co/G3ZttjIE4g">pic.twitter.com/G3ZttjIE4g</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/983331440678047744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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'I just want that FIR be written against Arun Singh and Kuldeep Singh and they be arrested. I want justice,' the sister added

The sister of the alleged UP rape victim has lashed out at the authorities saying, "My father has already died and now they say action will be taken." "I just want that FIR be written against Arun Singh and Kuldeep Singh and they be arrested. I want justice," she added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said Monday that the people at fault, whomsover they might be, will not be spared. The finger of accusation has so far been pointed at a politician from Adityanath's BJP party — Kuldeep Singh Sengar, the BJP MLA from Unnao. The rape victim and her family had on Sunday attempted suicide outside Adityanath's residence, which is when the story hit the national headlines. The woman and her family had alleged then that she was raped by the BJP MLA and his fellow accomplices, and that no action had been taken so far. She added that she and her family were threatened after they filed an FIR, which the police registered after stalling for a year. The family further alleged that Sengar's brother had thrashed the victim's father on April 3 for refusing to cancel the FIR, but that the police booked the father and locked him up. The father died Monday morning, in police custody. Police have now arrested four persons accused of beating the father, and suspended four cops — two officers and four constables. Sengar has so far denied the allegations and called it a conspiracy hatched by his political opponents. On Monday, he said he would not resign: #WATCH Kuldeep Singh Sengar, BJP MLA from Unnao against whom a woman leveled rape allegations,rules out resignation. Says 'Naam kisi ka aane se koi isteefa de deta hai?' pic.twitter.com/G3ZttjIE4g — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 9, 2018 ×

My father has died and now they say action will be taken: Sister of UP rape victim

Former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Wednesday said that China is diverting Arunachal Pradesh's Brahmaputra water to Xinjiang region.

Talking to ANI, Gogoi said that China has already been diverting Brahmaputra water with a dam which will create water shortage for us.&nbsp;

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China has already been diverting Brahmaputra water with a dam which will create water shortage for us. The artificial rainwater harvesting plan of them will create even more danger. PM should take it seriously or our future will be in dark: Tarun Gogoi, Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Assam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Assam</a> CM <a href="https://t.co/llQuwUOdY8">pic.twitter.com/llQuwUOdY8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/978869091002994688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The artificial rainwater harvesting plan of them will create even more danger.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi should take it seriously or our future will be in dark.

China has been building major dams on Brahmaputra river to generate hydel power. It operationalised Zangmu hydroelectric project in October, 2015 and three more are under construction.

While dams raised concerns of water shortages in India and Bangladesh, which are lower riparian states of Brahmaputra river, China said its dams were aimed at generating power and not storing water.

According to officials, the data shared by upper riparian state, China, to lower riparian states, India and Bangladesh is essential every monsoon to allow anticipation of the flow of the water and take necessary measures to deal with flooding in India's north eastern states.&nbsp;

Chinese engineers are reportedly testing techniques that could be used to build a 1,000 km-long tunnel — the world’s longest — to divert water from the Brahmaputra river in Tibet close to Arunachal Pradesh to the parched Xinjiang region

Former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Wednesday said that China is diverting Arunachal Pradesh's Brahmaputra water to Xinjiang region. Talking to ANI, Gogoi said that China has already been diverting Brahmaputra water with a dam which will create water shortage for us. China has already been diverting Brahmaputra water with a dam which will create water shortage for us. The artificial rainwater harvesting plan of them will create even more danger. PM should take it seriously or our future will be in dark: Tarun Gogoi, Former #Assam CM pic.twitter.com/llQuwUOdY8 — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2018 × The artificial rainwater harvesting plan of them will create even more danger. PM Narendra Modi should take it seriously or our future will be in dark. China has been building major dams on Brahmaputra river to generate hydel power. It operationalised Zangmu hydroelectric project in October, 2015 and three more are under construction. While dams raised concerns of water shortages in India and Bangladesh, which are lower riparian states of Brahmaputra river, China said its dams were aimed at generating power and not storing water. According to officials, the data shared by upper riparian state, China, to lower riparian states, India and Bangladesh is essential every monsoon to allow anticipation of the flow of the water and take necessary measures to deal with flooding in India's north eastern states.

Future will be dark: Ex-Assam CM says China diverting Brahmaputra water

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Biplab Kumar Deb took charge as Tripura Chief Minister on Saturday.

Biplab Deb yesterday took oath as the Chief Minister; while, Jishnu Dev Burman swore&nbsp;in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav and other leaders of the BJP-ruled states attended the swearing-in ceremony.

Governor Tathagata Roy administered the oath.

Earlier in the week, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced Deb as the Chief Minister of Tripura while Jishnu Kumar Deb as the Deputy Chief Minister.

The BJP- Indigenous People&#39;s Front of Tripura (IPFT) coalition defeated the Communist Party of India with a two-thirds majority in the Tripura legislative assembly elections.

The BJP won 35 of the 59 seats that went to polls in Tripura, ousting the CPI(M) which won only in 17 assembly constituencies.&nbsp;

Biplab Deb yesterday took oath as the Chief Minister; while, Jishnu Dev Burman swore in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Biplab Kumar Deb took charge as Tripura Chief Minister on Saturday. Biplab Deb yesterday took oath as the Chief Minister; while, Jishnu Dev Burman swore in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav and other leaders of the BJP-ruled states attended the swearing-in ceremony. Governor Tathagata Roy administered the oath. Earlier in the week, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced Deb as the Chief Minister of Tripura while Jishnu Kumar Deb as the Deputy Chief Minister. The BJP- Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) coalition defeated the Communist Party of India with a two-thirds majority in the Tripura legislative assembly elections. The BJP won 35 of the 59 seats that went to polls in Tripura, ousting the CPI(M) which won only in 17 assembly constituencies.

Biplab Kumar Deb takes charge as Tripura CM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Thursday evening.&nbsp;

The two TDP ministers in Modi&#39;s cabinet &mdash; Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Minister of State for Science and Technology YS Chowdary &mdash; later met with the prime minister and tendered their resignations to him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Naidu had yesterday ordered the two ministers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-special-status-row-naidu-orders-2-tdp-ministers-to-quit-union-cabinet-35018" target="_blank">to quit</a> Modi&#39;s cabinet.&nbsp;

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Aviation Minister and TDP MP Ashok Gajapathi Raju&#39;s resignation letter to PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/DXFbagSzWs">pic.twitter.com/DXFbagSzWs</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971731675175677953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Union Minister and TDP MP YS Choudhary&#39;s resignation letter to PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/qDeS2yHOfA">pic.twitter.com/qDeS2yHOfA</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971733164312887296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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ANI reported TDP sources as saying Naidu explained to the prime minister why he had asked the two ministers to quit and why the TDP was withdrawing from the union government.&nbsp;

The row between the TDP and the BJP can be traced back to the TDP&#39;s demand for special status. The status would give Andhra central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the centre paying the larger share.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had said Wednesday that the government was willing to Andhra the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-special-status-row-naidu-orders-2-tdp-ministers-to-quit-union-cabinet-35018" target="_blank">monetary equivalent</a> of the special status, but not the status itself since the category no longer existed.&nbsp;

The TDP on the other hand believes the promises made to it when the state of Telangana was carved out of it in June 2014 have not been kept. The TDP is also under tremendous pressure before the state and general elections next year, with opposition parties in the state saying it has not been able to get a good deal from the union government despite being a partner at the centre.&nbsp;

For the moment, the alliance between the TDP and the BJP continues to stand although news reports quoted&nbsp;TDP lawmaker Ravindra Babu as saying tyhe next &quot;logical step&quot; would be to exit the NDA.&nbsp;

Naidu had yesterday said this (the ordering of the resignation of the two ministers) was the &quot;first step&quot;&nbsp; and that what followed next would depend on the centre&#39;s reactions.&nbsp;

He had also said that he had been trying, as a &quot;responsible senior politician&quot;, to speak with the prime minister but that Modi had been &quot;unavailable&quot;. And, he added, that Jaitley&#39;s remarks yesterday had been the last straw.&nbsp;

Jaitley had said sentiment cannot decide quantum of funding.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi meanwhile had said Wednesday that the Congress, if elected to power in 2019, would be willing to give Andhra the special status it was asking for.&nbsp;

Naidu had yesterday ordered the two ministers to quit Modi's cabinet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Thursday evening. The two TDP ministers in Modi's cabinet — Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Minister of State for Science and Technology YS Chowdary — later met with the prime minister and tendered their resignations to him. Naidu had yesterday ordered the two ministers to quit Modi's cabinet. Aviation Minister and TDP MP Ashok Gajapathi Raju's resignation letter to PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/DXFbagSzWs — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2018 × Union Minister and TDP MP YS Choudhary's resignation letter to PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/qDeS2yHOfA — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2018 × ANI reported TDP sources as saying Naidu explained to the prime minister why he had asked the two ministers to quit and why the TDP was withdrawing from the union government. The row between the TDP and the BJP can be traced back to the TDP's demand for special status. The status would give Andhra central funding in a 90:10 ratio, with the centre paying the larger share. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had said Wednesday that the government was willing to Andhra the monetary equivalent of the special status, but not the status itself since the category no longer existed. The TDP on the other hand believes the promises made to it when the state of Telangana was carved out of it in June 2014 have not been kept. The TDP is also under tremendous pressure before the state and general elections next year, with opposition parties in the state saying it has not been able to get a good deal from the union government despite being a partner at the centre. For the moment, the alliance between the TDP and the BJP continues to stand although news reports quoted TDP lawmaker Ravindra Babu as saying tyhe next "logical step" would be to exit the NDA. Naidu had yesterday said this (the ordering of the resignation of the two ministers) was the "first step" and that what followed next would depend on the centre's reactions. He had also said that he had been trying, as a "responsible senior politician", to speak with the prime minister but that Modi had been "unavailable". And, he added, that Jaitley's remarks yesterday had been the last straw. Jaitley had said sentiment cannot decide quantum of funding. Rahul Gandhi meanwhile had said Wednesday that the Congress, if elected to power in 2019, would be willing to give Andhra the special status it was asking for.

Modi speaks to Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu, 2 TDP ministers quit Union Cabinet

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-karti-chidambarams-cbi-custody-extended-by-3-days-34895" target="_blank">INX Media case: CBI custody of Karti Chidambaram extended by 3 days</a>

A special CBI Court on Tuesday extended the agency&#39;s custody of Karti Chidambaram by three more days in the infamous INX Media case, after his previous five-day custody expired today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-need-for-nuclear-weapons-if-we-have-security-guarantee-north-korea-34896" target="_blank">No need for nuclear weapons if we have security guarantee: North Korea</a>

North Korea is open to denuclearisation if the safety of Kim Jong Un&rsquo;s regime is guaranteed, a South Korean official said Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank">Sri Lanka declares </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank">emergency</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank"> to quell Buddhist-Muslim riots, curfew imposed in Kandy</a>

Sri Lanka declared a nationwide state of emergency for 10 days on Tuesday to stop the spread of communal violence, a government spokesman said, after clashes erupted between majority Buddhists and members of the minority Muslim community.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">Neiphiu Rio appointed </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">c</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">hief</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank"> minister of Nagaland</a>

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-icicis-chanda-kochhar-axis-banks-shikha-sharma-summoned-by-sfio-34893" target="_blank">PNB scam: ICICI&#39;s Chanda Kochhar, Axis Bank&#39;s Shikha Sharma summoned by Serious Fraud Investigation Office</a>

ICICI Bank chief Chanda Kochhar and Axis Bank chief Shikha Sharma have been summoned by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) in connection with the over Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam.&nbsp;

INX Media case: CBI custody of Karti Chidambaram extended by 3 days A special CBI Court on Tuesday extended the agency's custody of Karti Chidambaram by three more days in the infamous INX Media case, after his previous five-day custody expired today. No need for nuclear weapons if we have security guarantee: North Korea North Korea is open to denuclearisation if the safety of Kim Jong Un’s regime is guaranteed, a South Korean official said Tuesday. Sri Lanka declares emergency to quell Buddhist-Muslim riots, curfew imposed in Kandy Sri Lanka declared a nationwide state of emergency for 10 days on Tuesday to stop the spread of communal violence, a government spokesman said, after clashes erupted between majority Buddhists and members of the minority Muslim community. Neiphiu Rio appointed chief minister of Nagaland Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution. PNB scam: ICICI's Chanda Kochhar, Axis Bank's Shikha Sharma summoned by Serious Fraud Investigation Office ICICI Bank chief Chanda Kochhar and Axis Bank chief Shikha Sharma have been summoned by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) in connection with the over Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam.

WION Evening News Brief, March 6, 2018

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

The governor also asked Rio to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16, 2018.

Acharya also accepted the resignation submitted by former chief minister TR Zeliang, who had so far been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nagaland-cm-tr-zeliang-refuses-to-quit-34888" target="_blank">refusing to quit</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rio has been asked to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution. The governor also asked Rio to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16, 2018. Acharya also accepted the resignation submitted by former chief minister TR Zeliang, who had so far been refusing to quit.

Neiphiu Rio appointed chief minister of Nagaland

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday said he would travel abroad for curing his medical ailment.

In a video message, Parrikar stated that he would travel abroad, depending on the advice given to him by the doctors here, and also thanked the natives of his state for their good wishes at his time of recovery.

&quot;I want to thank all Goans for your prayers in the last 15 days. Because of your blessings, I have recovered and I am heading for Mumbai. Depending on what the doctors advise me, I may be going abroad for a few days to cure my ailment. I hope your blessings will continue and that you will allow me to take a few days off for completely curing myself,&quot; he said.

On February 15, Parrikar was rushed to the Lilavati Hospital where, according to the CMO, he was diagnosed with &ldquo;mild pancreatitis.&rdquo;

Sources close to Parrikar indicated on Monday that his family is already in touch with a health facility in the United States, where he will proceed to, after a brief spell of treatment in Mumbai&#39;s Lilavati Hospital.

On February 15, Parrikar was rushed to the Lilavati Hospital where, according to the CMO, he was diagnosed with “mild pancreatitis.”

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday said he would travel abroad for curing his medical ailment. In a video message, Parrikar stated that he would travel abroad, depending on the advice given to him by the doctors here, and also thanked the natives of his state for their good wishes at his time of recovery. "I want to thank all Goans for your prayers in the last 15 days. Because of your blessings, I have recovered and I am heading for Mumbai. Depending on what the doctors advise me, I may be going abroad for a few days to cure my ailment. I hope your blessings will continue and that you will allow me to take a few days off for completely curing myself," he said. On February 15, Parrikar was rushed to the Lilavati Hospital where, according to the CMO, he was diagnosed with “mild pancreatitis.” Sources close to Parrikar indicated on Monday that his family is already in touch with a health facility in the United States, where he will proceed to, after a brief spell of treatment in Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital.

Manohar Parrikar to travel abroad for medical treatment

With assets worth Rs 177 crore, Andhra Pradesh&#39;s Chandrababu Naidu is the richest chief minister in India.&nbsp;

The other chief ministers named in this exclusive club are of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu with worth Rs 129 crore and Punjab CM Amarinder Singh, who has Rs 48 crore to his name.

Meanwhile, the poorest among all is Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, with assets valued just over Rs 26 lakh.&nbsp;

The analysis was conducted by transparency body Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR)

The other crorepati chief ministers are Telengana&#39;s K Chandrashekhar Rao with assets worth Rs 15.15 crore, Meghalaya CM Mukul Sangma with Rs 14.50 crore.&nbsp;

The BJP, which has governments in 18 states, does not have a single CM in the top ten list as six out of the top ten richest CMs are from the Congress and the rest belong to the TDP, TRS, BJD and SDF.&nbsp;

Out of 31 CMs in India, 25 are crorepatis (with assets exceeding Rs 1 crore).

Next to Manik Sarkar on the poorest CMs list is West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with only moveable assets worth Rs 30.45 lakh.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is the third poorest CM with total assets worth Rs 55.96 lakh.&nbsp;

Haryana CM Manoharlal Khattar stands at Rs 61.29 lakh and Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das is with Rs 72.72 lakh, becoming the fourth and fifth poor CMs&#39; respectively.&nbsp;

The analysis was conducted by transparency body Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR)

With assets worth Rs 177 crore, Andhra Pradesh's Chandrababu Naidu is the richest chief minister in India. The other chief ministers named in this exclusive club are of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu with worth Rs 129 crore and Punjab CM Amarinder Singh, who has Rs 48 crore to his name. Meanwhile, the poorest among all is Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, with assets valued just over Rs 26 lakh. The analysis was conducted by transparency body Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) The other crorepati chief ministers are Telengana's K Chandrashekhar Rao with assets worth Rs 15.15 crore, Meghalaya CM Mukul Sangma with Rs 14.50 crore. The BJP, which has governments in 18 states, does not have a single CM in the top ten list as six out of the top ten richest CMs are from the Congress and the rest belong to the TDP, TRS, BJD and SDF. Out of 31 CMs in India, 25 are crorepatis (with assets exceeding Rs 1 crore). Next to Manik Sarkar on the poorest CMs list is West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with only moveable assets worth Rs 30.45 lakh. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is the third poorest CM with total assets worth Rs 55.96 lakh. Haryana CM Manoharlal Khattar stands at Rs 61.29 lakh and Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das is with Rs 72.72 lakh, becoming the fourth and fifth poor CMs' respectively.

Chandrababu Naidu tops richest chief ministers' list, Manik Sarkar among poorest: Report

Punjab local bodies minister Navjot Singh Sidhu today said he was &quot;deeply hurt&quot; as the state government and the party did not seek his views while selecting candidates for the mayoral posts.

Sidhu, who along with 15 municipal councillors, stayed away from the official programme of the election of Amritsar mayor yesterday which came as an embarrassment to the state unit of the Congress, prompting Punjab unit chief Sunil Jakhar to seek a report.

Sidhu, who joined the Congress last year after quitting the BJP, today issued a statement, saying though he was the local bodies minister, he was not involved in the decisions at any level in the matter. 
&quot;I was neither involved in the discussion that took place at the level of the government for the past one month in connection with the election of mayors of Patiala, Jalandhar and Amritsar, nor any sort of suggestion was taken from me in his regard at the party-level,&quot; he said.

Sidhu, the former BJP MP, made it clear that he had no grudge against the election of Karamjit Singh Rintu who was yesterday elected as the Amritsar mayor.

&quot;It has deeply hurt me and it has hurt my sentiments. I was not involved at any level,&quot; he said.

The Congress had appointed three Cabinet ministers Tript Rajinder Bajwa, Aruna Chaudhary and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot as observers for the mayoral elections in Amritsar, Jalandhar and Patiala corporations, respectively.

When pointed out that he had said that he would abide by whatever the chief minister decides regarding the election of mayor, Sidhu said, &quot;This means that I should not be involved in the matter related to my department and not being called in any of the meetings. And now somebody else will hold meetings of my department? Does it mean that somebody else will now take a decision pertaining to the local bodies department.&quot;

He ruled out taking up this issue with Chief Minister Amarinder Singh.

On staying away from Amritsar mayor election programme, he said, &quot;I was not even properly invited for the meeting to elect Amritsar mayor. Therefore I did not attend the meeting.&quot; 
Meanwhile, the Punjab Congress chief spokesperson and MLA Raj Kumar Verka said that Sidhu, along with all MLAs, had authorised the chief minister in a one-line resolution to decide on the election of mayor.

&quot;Then the matter ends here and there should not be any confusion,&quot; he said, adding that it was a party&#39;s process wherein neither ministers nor MLAs were aware about who would be elected as mayor. 
Verka said the arrangement of programme of Amritsar Mayor&#39;s election was made by his department, not by the party.

&quot;There could have been some communication gap which led to this situation,&quot; he said.

Sidhu stayed away from the official programme of the election of Amritsar mayor

Punjab local bodies minister Navjot Singh Sidhu today said he was "deeply hurt" as the state government and the party did not seek his views while selecting candidates for the mayoral posts. Sidhu, who along with 15 municipal councillors, stayed away from the official programme of the election of Amritsar mayor yesterday which came as an embarrassment to the state unit of the Congress, prompting Punjab unit chief Sunil Jakhar to seek a report. Sidhu, who joined the Congress last year after quitting the BJP, today issued a statement, saying though he was the local bodies minister, he was not involved in the decisions at any level in the matter. "I was neither involved in the discussion that took place at the level of the government for the past one month in connection with the election of mayors of Patiala, Jalandhar and Amritsar, nor any sort of suggestion was taken from me in his regard at the party-level," he said. Sidhu, the former BJP MP, made it clear that he had no grudge against the election of Karamjit Singh Rintu who was yesterday elected as the Amritsar mayor. "It has deeply hurt me and it has hurt my sentiments. I was not involved at any level," he said. The Congress had appointed three Cabinet ministers Tript Rajinder Bajwa, Aruna Chaudhary and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot as observers for the mayoral elections in Amritsar, Jalandhar and Patiala corporations, respectively. When pointed out that he had said that he would abide by whatever the chief minister decides regarding the election of mayor, Sidhu said, "This means that I should not be involved in the matter related to my department and not being called in any of the meetings. And now somebody else will hold meetings of my department? Does it mean that somebody else will now take a decision pertaining to the local bodies department." He ruled out taking up this issue with Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. On staying away from Amritsar mayor election programme, he said, "I was not even properly invited for the meeting to elect Amritsar mayor. Therefore I did not attend the meeting." Meanwhile, the Punjab Congress chief spokesperson and MLA Raj Kumar Verka said that Sidhu, along with all MLAs, had authorised the chief minister in a one-line resolution to decide on the election of mayor. "Then the matter ends here and there should not be any confusion," he said, adding that it was a party's process wherein neither ministers nor MLAs were aware about who would be elected as mayor. Verka said the arrangement of programme of Amritsar Mayor's election was made by his department, not by the party. "There could have been some communication gap which led to this situation," he said.

'Deeply hurt' by Punjab govt for not involving me in selection of mayors: Navjot Sidhu

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