<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-will-be-from-shiv-sena-says-senior-ncp-leader-262295">Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)</a> chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

"There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi.

Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting.

After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said.

The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting.

"The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said.

Maharashtra came under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's Rule</a> earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 
BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief

Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday.

The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">288-member assembly</a> followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra. "There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi. Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting. After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said. The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting. "The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said. Maharashtra came under President's Rule earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Sharad Pawar arrives in Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi on Maharashtra govt formation

Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij on Saturday hit out at the Congress and the Shiv Sena amid talks of the two parties forming the government in Maharashtra, saying that they have different ideologies and would never be successful.

"They have been exposed because of their greed for power. Congress and Shiv Sena always have done politics against each other and opposed each other's ideologies," Vij told reporters here.

Commenting on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Vij said: "He is misleading the country for some time. He is the factory of speaking lies. He never presented any facts."

The Congress and the NCP are making efforts to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra where the President's Rule was imposed earlier this week.

The three parties have prepared a draft for their common minimum programme (CMP).

The Shiv Sena and the BJP, who fought the polls together, could not form the government due to differences over power-sharing.

The BJP emerged as the single-largest party in the state with 105 seats in 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij on Saturday hit out at the Congress and the Shiv Sena amid talks of the two parties forming the government in Maharashtra, saying that they have different ideologies and would never be successful.

Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij on Saturday hit out at the Congress and the Shiv Sena amid talks of the two parties forming the government in Maharashtra, saying that they have different ideologies and would never be successful. "They have been exposed because of their greed for power. Congress and Shiv Sena always have done politics against each other and opposed each other's ideologies," Vij told reporters here. Commenting on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Vij said: "He is misleading the country for some time. He is the factory of speaking lies. He never presented any facts." The Congress and the NCP are making efforts to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra where the President's Rule was imposed earlier this week. The three parties have prepared a draft for their common minimum programme (CMP). The Shiv Sena and the BJP, who fought the polls together, could not form the government due to differences over power-sharing. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party in the state with 105 seats in 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Congress-Shiv Sena coming together in Maharashtra for greed of power: Haryana Minister Anil Vij

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-rafale-claims-after-sc-verdict-demands-apology-262036">Rahul Gandhi </a>and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal.

The BJP leaders will hold protests outside All India Congress Committee office in Delhi and other Congress offices in other parts of the country demanding an apology from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Rafale.

A party release signed by general secretary Arun Singh said that Congress and Rahul Gandhi gave 'false', 'fabricated'&nbsp;and 'undignified'&nbsp;statements on Rafale deal. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case passed on December 14, 2018, upholding the 36 Rafale jets deal.

A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and KM Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-rafale-review-petitions-261965">36 Rafale jets </a>by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France.

The apex court closed the contempt petition filed by BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his remarks. The Supreme Court accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful."Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said in their verdict.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal. The BJP leaders will hold protests outside All India Congress Committee office in Delhi and other Congress offices in other parts of the country demanding an apology from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Rafale. A party release signed by general secretary Arun Singh said that Congress and Rahul Gandhi gave 'false', 'fabricated' and 'undignified' statements on Rafale deal. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case passed on December 14, 2018, upholding the 36 Rafale jets deal. A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and KM Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of 36 Rafale jets by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France. The apex court closed the contempt petition filed by BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his remarks. The Supreme Court accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful."Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said in their verdict.

BJP to hold nationwide protests against Rahul Gandhi over claims on Rafale deal

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years.

''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked&nbsp;whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.5 or 5 years.

He also said that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalised the draft of the Common Minimum Programme in the interests of the people of the state after several consultations over the last 48 hours.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on being asked 'if Shiv Sena CM will be for 5 years or CM will be for 2.5 years each from NCP and Shiv Sena?': Hum toh chahte hain aane wale 25 saal tak Shiv Sena ka CM rahe, aap 5 saal ki baat kyun karte ho. <a href="https://t.co/ZH69LUDoTG">pic.twitter.com/ZH69LUDoTG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1195205537509462016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Three weeks after election results were announced on October 24, the new government is likely to be formed in Maharahstra soon.&nbsp;NCP leader Sharad Pawar on Friday said that the process to form government in the state has begun and it would run for full 5 years.

Meanwhile, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the CM will be from Shiv Sena. "Shiv Sena has been insulted, so it is our responsibility to fight for their self-respect", Malik added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nawab Malik, NCP: Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. <a href="https://t.co/qHiVoFoRlR">pic.twitter.com/qHiVoFoRlR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1195213291175530497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On November 12, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's rule </a>was implemented in Maharashtra after BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP failed to form government in the time period allotted to them.

In the Assembly elections that were held on October 21 in Maharashtra, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years. ''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years. ''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.5 or 5 years. He also said that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalised the draft of the Common Minimum Programme in the interests of the people of the state after several consultations over the last 48 hours. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on being asked 'if Shiv Sena CM will be for 5 years or CM will be for 2.5 years each from NCP and Shiv Sena?': Hum toh chahte hain aane wale 25 saal tak Shiv Sena ka CM rahe, aap 5 saal ki baat kyun karte ho. pic.twitter.com/ZH69LUDoTG — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2019 × Three weeks after election results were announced on October 24, the new government is likely to be formed in Maharahstra soon. NCP leader Sharad Pawar on Friday said that the process to form government in the state has begun and it would run for full 5 years. Meanwhile, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the CM will be from Shiv Sena. "Shiv Sena has been insulted, so it is our responsibility to fight for their self-respect", Malik added. Nawab Malik, NCP: Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. pic.twitter.com/qHiVoFoRlR — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2019 × On November 12, President's rule was implemented in Maharashtra after BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP failed to form government in the time period allotted to them. In the Assembly elections that were held on October 21 in Maharashtra, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra. (with inputs from agencies)

'We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years,' says Sanjay Raut as Shiv Sena closes in on deal with Congress, NCP

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-want-a-cm-from-shiv-sena-for-25-years-sanjay-raut-on-maharashtra-power-struggle-262273">Maharashtra</a>, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only.

"Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. (Question is being asked continuously whether the Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena? Differences came up between Shiv Sena and BJP due to the Chief Minister's post, so definitely Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena has been insulted, it is our responsibility to maintain their self-respect)," Malik told ANI here.

Malik said that the leaders of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalized its draft of the Common Minimum Programme and the said draft has already been sent to the top leadership of all three political parties and now it is under their consideration." Soon there will be a decision on it," Malik said.

"Our Common Minimum Programme basically includes the issue of farmers, loan waiver, Job creation to youngsters etc," he added.

Malik said that looking at the current farmers'&nbsp;issues in Maharashtra, the parties are of the view of forming a "stable government as soon as possible."

Asked about former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis's&nbsp;comment that there is no alternative than BJP in Maharashtra to form the government, Malik said, "Devendra Fadnavis is now a former chief minister and he is reacting like a lost General of the Army who is falsely encouraging his Army to fight in the battlefield. There is no chance of BJP forming government in the state because BJP doesn't have the required number to form the government."

On Thursday, leaders from Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress held a meeting to finalise its draft of Common Minimum Programme.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule after no party was able to show numbers to form a government after the assembly polls. The BJP and Shiv Sena, who fought the polls together, got an absolute majority but could not form a government due to differences over power-sharing.BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later asked Shiv Sena and NCP about their intent and ability to form the government. Both parties sought more time. NCP and Congress fought the elections in an alliance.&nbsp;

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only.

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only. "Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. (Question is being asked continuously whether the Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena? Differences came up between Shiv Sena and BJP due to the Chief Minister's post, so definitely Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena has been insulted, it is our responsibility to maintain their self-respect)," Malik told ANI here. Malik said that the leaders of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalized its draft of the Common Minimum Programme and the said draft has already been sent to the top leadership of all three political parties and now it is under their consideration." Soon there will be a decision on it," Malik said. "Our Common Minimum Programme basically includes the issue of farmers, loan waiver, Job creation to youngsters etc," he added. Malik said that looking at the current farmers' issues in Maharashtra, the parties are of the view of forming a "stable government as soon as possible." Asked about former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis's comment that there is no alternative than BJP in Maharashtra to form the government, Malik said, "Devendra Fadnavis is now a former chief minister and he is reacting like a lost General of the Army who is falsely encouraging his Army to fight in the battlefield. There is no chance of BJP forming government in the state because BJP doesn't have the required number to form the government." On Thursday, leaders from Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress held a meeting to finalise its draft of Common Minimum Programme. Maharashtra came under President's Rule after no party was able to show numbers to form a government after the assembly polls. The BJP and Shiv Sena, who fought the polls together, got an absolute majority but could not form a government due to differences over power-sharing.BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later asked Shiv Sena and NCP about their intent and ability to form the government. Both parties sought more time. NCP and Congress fought the elections in an alliance.

Maharashtra CM will be from Shiv Sena, says senior NCP leader

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5.

Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case.

"We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.&nbsp;

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5. Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case. "We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

15 disqualified Karnataka MLAs join BJP

Supreme Court on Thursday refused to review its order on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-will-prove-to-be-the-gamechanger-for-iaf-air-chief-marshal-bs-dhanoa-221975">the Rafale fighter jets</a>.

India's top court closed a contempt plea filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for wrongly attributing to the court his “chowkidar chor hai” slogan against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Rafale case.

The Supreme Court said, “Mr Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in future” for attributing to the court his remarks.

The petitioners had moved the top court seeking review of the&nbsp;verdict which dismissed a plea challenging India's agreement with France for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets.

India had inked a deal with Dassault for the fighter jets. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh officially received the first Rafale fighter jet from Dassault Aviation at a ceremony in Bordeaux in France last month.

Four jets are expected to arrive in India in May next year, the rest will arrive in September 2022.

Supreme Court on Thursday refused to review its order on the Rafale fighter jets. India's top court closed a contempt plea filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for wrongly attributing to the court his “chowkidar chor hai” slogan against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Rafale case.

Supreme Court on Thursday refused to review its order on the Rafale fighter jets. India's top court closed a contempt plea filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for wrongly attributing to the court his “chowkidar chor hai” slogan against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Rafale case. The Supreme Court said, “Mr Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in future” for attributing to the court his remarks. The petitioners had moved the top court seeking review of the verdict which dismissed a plea challenging India's agreement with France for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets. India had inked a deal with Dassault for the fighter jets. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh officially received the first Rafale fighter jet from Dassault Aviation at a ceremony in Bordeaux in France last month. Four jets are expected to arrive in India in May next year, the rest will arrive in September 2022.

Supreme Court dismisses Rafale review petitions

A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">Supreme Court</a> permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending&nbsp; Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling&nbsp;BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of&nbsp;Roshan Baig.

On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said.

The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources,&nbsp;Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam.

In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

 
&nbsp;

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig.

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig. On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said. The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources, Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam. In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

BJP says Karnataka's 16 disqualified MLAs set to join party

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/15-disqualified-karnataka-mlas-join-bjp-261991">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)</a> here, state Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yediyurappa-should-call-all-party-meet-to-discuss-rcep-implications-siddaramaiah-258228">BS Yediyurappa </a>said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

"They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said.

"It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added.

The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried."

"Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said.

Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023.

The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

"They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said.

"It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added.

The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried."

"Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said.

Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023.

The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5. "They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said. "It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added. The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried." "Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said. Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter. A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5. "They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said. "It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added. The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried." "Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said. Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter. A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

We will win for sure in all 15 constituencies: BS Yediyurappa

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai.

Congress leader Manikrao Thakre will also be accompanying them to meet the Shiv Sena leader. Raut was admitted to the Lilavati hospital on November 11 following a complaint of chest pain. Earlier on Tuesday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also met him at the hospital.

He has been instrumental in reaching out to various leaders in a bid to garner support for Shiv Sena for the government formation in Maharashtra.

Over a fortnight after the declaration of Assembly election results, Maharashtra came under the President`s Rule on Tuesday as the political stalemate continued in the state.

Shiv Sena, which has been keen on a party nominee becoming chief minister, moved the Supreme Court against Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari`s decision to not extend the time given to it to prove its ability to form the government in the state.

Senior Sena leader and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi and NCP Chief Sharad Pawar have also met Raut in the hospital.

NCP and Congress have indicated that they were not in a hurry to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena.

Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in 288-member assembly.&nbsp;

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai. Congress leader Manikrao Thakre will also be accompanying them to meet the Shiv Sena leader. Raut was admitted to the Lilavati hospital on November 11 following a complaint of chest pain. Earlier on Tuesday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also met him at the hospital. He has been instrumental in reaching out to various leaders in a bid to garner support for Shiv Sena for the government formation in Maharashtra. Over a fortnight after the declaration of Assembly election results, Maharashtra came under the President`s Rule on Tuesday as the political stalemate continued in the state. Shiv Sena, which has been keen on a party nominee becoming chief minister, moved the Supreme Court against Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari`s decision to not extend the time given to it to prove its ability to form the government in the state. Senior Sena leader and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi and NCP Chief Sharad Pawar have also met Raut in the hospital. NCP and Congress have indicated that they were not in a hurry to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena. Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in 288-member assembly.

Congress' Ashok Chavan to visit Sanjay Raut in hospital

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

"We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections.

The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court.

The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court.

After their&nbsp;disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. "We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court. The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court. After their disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.

SC upholds disqualification of Karnataka's rebel MLAs, permits them to contest bypolls

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP".&nbsp;

"We'll hold further talks with both of them," Thackeray told media today.&nbsp;

Thackeray stated that his party needed more time to prove support to be able to form the government in Maharashtra but the same was not granted by the Governor.&nbsp;

"Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena: BJP-Shiv Sena were together for many yrs but now Shiv Sena has to go with Congress-NCP. We'll hold further talks with both of them. I would like to thank Arvind Sawant, many people have lust for ministerial post but he isn't like that. Proud of him. <a href="https://t.co/oxCKaPRUYR">pic.twitter.com/oxCKaPRUYR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194263778252054528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has filed a petition in Supreme Court challenging Maharashtra Governor's decision to not extend the time given to the party to prove their ability to form the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena.

Meanwhile, top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-tussle-ncp-says-in-no-hurry-will-decide-on-supporting-shiv-sena-261653">held talks with senior Congress leaders</a> in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief: Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/2XL0YRallL">https://t.co/2XL0YRallL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194262490797899776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray reacts to a question 'Is the BJP option completely finished?'. Says, "Why are you in such a hurry? It's politics. 6 months time has been given (President's Rule). I didn't finish the BJP option, it was BJP itself which did that..." <a href="https://t.co/3pew41hMuF">pic.twitter.com/3pew41hMuF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194266310831738880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP".

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP". "We'll hold further talks with both of them," Thackeray told media today. Thackeray stated that his party needed more time to prove support to be able to form the government in Maharashtra but the same was not granted by the Governor. "Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time," he said. Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena: BJP-Shiv Sena were together for many yrs but now Shiv Sena has to go with Congress-NCP. We'll hold further talks with both of them. I would like to thank Arvind Sawant, many people have lust for ministerial post but he isn't like that. Proud of him. pic.twitter.com/oxCKaPRUYR — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has filed a petition in Supreme Court challenging Maharashtra Governor's decision to not extend the time given to the party to prove their ability to form the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena. Meanwhile, top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra. Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief: Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time. #Maharashtra https://t.co/2XL0YRallL — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. #WATCH Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray reacts to a question 'Is the BJP option completely finished?'. Says, "Why are you in such a hurry? It's politics. 6 months time has been given (President's Rule). I didn't finish the BJP option, it was BJP itself which did that..." pic.twitter.com/3pew41hMuF — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × "We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

Will hold further talks with Congress, NCP: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

"We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraGovtFormation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraGovtFormation</a> <a href="https://t.co/MYYYgEpKv0">pic.twitter.com/MYYYgEpKv0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194257855710318593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said, "We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally". Patel also expressed dissatisfaction over the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Patel also condemned the fact that Congress did not get an invite from the Governor to form the government when Shiv Sena, the BJP and the NCP did.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congress leader Ahmed Patel: We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm">https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194257200652271621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government.&nbsp;

"Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shiv Sena's lawyer Sunil Fernandes says, "SC registry has said they may mention the matter tomorrow before the court, for urgent hearing. Fresh/second petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule is being readied. The decision on when to file it will be taken tomorrow" <a href="https://t.co/iezTlar2jy">https://t.co/iezTlar2jy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194246027122864130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has filed a petition in Supreme Court challenging Maharashtra Governor's decision to not extend the time given to the party to prove their ability to form the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena.

Shiv Sena said that the matter could be posted before the court tomorrow for urgent hearing. "Fresh/second petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule is being readied. The decision on when to file it will be taken tomorrow," Fernandes said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra. NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. "We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena). #MaharashtraGovtFormation pic.twitter.com/MYYYgEpKv0 — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said, "We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally". Patel also expressed dissatisfaction over the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra. Patel also condemned the fact that Congress did not get an invite from the Governor to form the government when Shiv Sena, the BJP and the NCP did. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state. Congress leader Ahmed Patel: We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally. #Mumbai https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government. "Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI. Shiv Sena's lawyer Sunil Fernandes says, "SC registry has said they may mention the matter tomorrow before the court, for urgent hearing. Fresh/second petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule is being readied. The decision on when to file it will be taken tomorrow" https://t.co/iezTlar2jy — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day. Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so. Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has filed a petition in Supreme Court challenging Maharashtra Governor's decision to not extend the time given to the party to prove their ability to form the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena said that the matter could be posted before the court tomorrow for urgent hearing. "Fresh/second petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule is being readied. The decision on when to file it will be taken tomorrow," Fernandes said. (With inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra power tussle: NCP says, 'in no hurry, will decide on supporting Shiv Sena'

Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal meet party chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai on Tuesday.

A decision to form the government will be taken after the meeting concludes.

Addressing a press conference, NCP leader Nawab Malik&nbsp;said Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari called NCP leaders to stake claim on Monday and gave time till 8:30 pm on Tuesday.

"Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal are coming to Mumbai and will meet Pawar at 5 pm. The decision will be taken after their discussion."

"The party believes that it is not possible to form an alternative government without the coming together of the three parties (Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena). If the three do not come together, there cannot be a stable government in Maharashtra," he said.

Malik said all 54 MLAs of the party attended the party meeting on Tuesday.

"It has been decided that looking at the uncertainty in the state, we will empower Sharad Pawarji to take a decision on alternative government. A committee will be formed for the same which will be led by Sharad Pawar," he added.

The NCP has 54 MLAs in the state assembly while the Congress has 44.

BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party in Maharashtra assembly polls with 105 seats, declined to form the government following differences with Shiv Sena on sharing power. The majority mark in the 288-member Maharashtra assembly is 145.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal meet party chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai on Tuesday. A decision to form the government will be taken after the meeting concludes.

Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal meet party chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai on Tuesday. A decision to form the government will be taken after the meeting concludes. Addressing a press conference, NCP leader Nawab Malik said Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari called NCP leaders to stake claim on Monday and gave time till 8:30 pm on Tuesday. "Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal are coming to Mumbai and will meet Pawar at 5 pm. The decision will be taken after their discussion." "The party believes that it is not possible to form an alternative government without the coming together of the three parties (Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena). If the three do not come together, there cannot be a stable government in Maharashtra," he said. Malik said all 54 MLAs of the party attended the party meeting on Tuesday. "It has been decided that looking at the uncertainty in the state, we will empower Sharad Pawarji to take a decision on alternative government. A committee will be formed for the same which will be led by Sharad Pawar," he added. The NCP has 54 MLAs in the state assembly while the Congress has 44. BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party in Maharashtra assembly polls with 105 seats, declined to form the government following differences with Shiv Sena on sharing power. The majority mark in the 288-member Maharashtra assembly is 145.

Maharashtra: Congress leaders meet Sharad Pawar to discuss government formation

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them.&nbsp;

"If Congress gives support to Shiv Sena, they should not disturb it for the next five years, only then people will trust the Congress party," Gowda told ANI when he was asked about the political situation in Maharashtra.

"Bal Thackeray gave place to the BJP in Maharashtra, LK Advani and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee went to Balasaheb`s residence and requested him for seats in the state. Today the BJP overrode that and that is why Uddhav Thackeray has taken a stand that he will teach them a lesson. Now, it`s for Congress and NCP to put the BJP down," he said.

After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to express its ability for government formation.

The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly.&nbsp;

On being asked about by-polls in Karnataka, Gowda said, "We have to see what decision is given by the Supreme Court." "If there are elections we are going to contest on all 15 seats. I cannot predict how many seats we are going to win but we are certainly going to give a good performance," he added.

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them.

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda on Monday said that if the Congress party gives support to Shiv Sena then they should continue that for five years, only then people will trust them. "If Congress gives support to Shiv Sena, they should not disturb it for the next five years, only then people will trust the Congress party," Gowda told ANI when he was asked about the political situation in Maharashtra. "Bal Thackeray gave place to the BJP in Maharashtra, LK Advani and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee went to Balasaheb`s residence and requested him for seats in the state. Today the BJP overrode that and that is why Uddhav Thackeray has taken a stand that he will teach them a lesson. Now, it`s for Congress and NCP to put the BJP down," he said. After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to express its ability for government formation. The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. On being asked about by-polls in Karnataka, Gowda said, "We have to see what decision is given by the Supreme Court." "If there are elections we are going to contest on all 15 seats. I cannot predict how many seats we are going to win but we are certainly going to give a good performance," he added.

If Congress supports Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, they should do it for 5 years, says Deve Gowda

Even as uncertainty continued over government formation in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday said that Congress is not the ''enemy of the state''.&nbsp;

''Congress is not the enemy of the State. All parties have differences on some issues,'' he was quoted as saying.

If nobody is ready to form the government, Shiv Sena can take responsibility, he added.

Raut's comments came amid rumours of the Nationalist Congress Party's readiness to extend support to Shiv Sena to form a government while the Congress is likely to lend outside support to the alliance.

With no solution at sight on government formation, incumbent chief minister Devendra Fadnavis resigned as the Maharashtra chief minister on Saturday and launched a fierce attack on ally Shiv Sena. Uddhav Thackeray launched a counter-attack and both called each other liars.

The Maharashtra election results were announced on October 24. It has been 17 days since, and alliance partners BJP and Shiv Sena, who got a clear mandate to form the government, have failed to arrive at a consensus.

Even as uncertainty continued over government formation in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday said that Congress is not the ''enemy of the state''.

Even as uncertainty continued over government formation in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday said that Congress is not the ''enemy of the state''. ''Congress is not the enemy of the State. All parties have differences on some issues,'' he was quoted as saying. If nobody is ready to form the government, Shiv Sena can take responsibility, he added. Raut's comments came amid rumours of the Nationalist Congress Party's readiness to extend support to Shiv Sena to form a government while the Congress is likely to lend outside support to the alliance. With no solution at sight on government formation, incumbent chief minister Devendra Fadnavis resigned as the Maharashtra chief minister on Saturday and launched a fierce attack on ally Shiv Sena. Uddhav Thackeray launched a counter-attack and both called each other liars. The Maharashtra election results were announced on October 24. It has been 17 days since, and alliance partners BJP and Shiv Sena, who got a clear mandate to form the government, have failed to arrive at a consensus.

Congress is not the enemy of the State: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut

The Congress party on Sunday released its first list of five candidates for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections scheduled to be held in five phases from November 30.

According to the list of candidates, Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Rameshwar Oraon will contest from Lohardaga (ST) constituency.

Among the other candidates are -- Ramchandra Singh from Manika (ST) constituency, KN Tripathy from Daltonganj, Chandrashekhar Dubey from Bishrampur and KP Yadav from Bhawanathpur.

"The Central Election Committee has approved the candidates for the ensuing first phase of general elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jharkhand," AICC press release undersigned by party general secretary, in-charge CEC, Mukul Wasnik said.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20 and the votes will be counted on December 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Congress party on Sunday released its first list of five candidates for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections scheduled to be held in five phases from November 30.

The Congress party on Sunday released its first list of five candidates for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections scheduled to be held in five phases from November 30. According to the list of candidates, Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Rameshwar Oraon will contest from Lohardaga (ST) constituency. Among the other candidates are -- Ramchandra Singh from Manika (ST) constituency, KN Tripathy from Daltonganj, Chandrashekhar Dubey from Bishrampur and KP Yadav from Bhawanathpur. "The Central Election Committee has approved the candidates for the ensuing first phase of general elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jharkhand," AICC press release undersigned by party general secretary, in-charge CEC, Mukul Wasnik said. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly will go to polls in five phases between November 30 and December 20 and the votes will be counted on December 23.

Congress releases first list for Jharkhand assembly polls

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president JP Nadda on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s decision not to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has undone the damage started by the Congress-led UPA government.

"He (Modi) has undone the damage started by the Congress-led UPA government which first explored a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2007 and then joined the RCEP negotiations with fifteen countries including China in 2011-12," Nadda said in a statement.

He said under the strong and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has ensured that the country`s interests are not compromised.

"Congress had hurriedly finalised very weak FTAs with ASEAN and South Korea in 2010 and Malaysia and Japan in 2011 opening Indian markets to imports with very little benefits in return," Nadda said.

The BJP working president said that during the UPA government between 2004 and 2014, India`s trade deficit with these countries increased 11 fold from $7 billion in 2004 to $78 billion in 2014.

"The Indian negotiators did not accept a bad deal on any issue and ensured that the concerns of India, particularly over the trade deficit and better market opportunities for Indian goods were put forth very strongly. Since several issues remained unresolved until today, Modi decided India will not join RCEP," he said.

Nadda said that the decision was taken by the Prime Minister to protect the interest of India`s MSMEs, dairy, farmers, pharmaceutical, steel, chemical and other manufacturing sectors against unfair imports.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has upheld Mahatma Gandhi`s principles and not accepted a deal which did not safeguard the interests of the poor. He is recognized the world over as a `tough negotiator` and he has once again demonstrated his resolve to protect the interest of the people of India at all times," Nadda added.

India had backed out from RCEP, upholding that the country remains committed to a comprehensive and balanced outcome of negotiations and seeks balance across goods, services and investments and also within each pillar.

RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member states of ASEAN and six FTA partners.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president JP Nadda on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s decision not to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has undone the damage started by the Congress-led UPA government.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president JP Nadda on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s decision not to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has undone the damage started by the Congress-led UPA government. "He (Modi) has undone the damage started by the Congress-led UPA government which first explored a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China in 2007 and then joined the RCEP negotiations with fifteen countries including China in 2011-12," Nadda said in a statement. He said under the strong and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has ensured that the country`s interests are not compromised. "Congress had hurriedly finalised very weak FTAs with ASEAN and South Korea in 2010 and Malaysia and Japan in 2011 opening Indian markets to imports with very little benefits in return," Nadda said. The BJP working president said that during the UPA government between 2004 and 2014, India`s trade deficit with these countries increased 11 fold from $7 billion in 2004 to $78 billion in 2014. "The Indian negotiators did not accept a bad deal on any issue and ensured that the concerns of India, particularly over the trade deficit and better market opportunities for Indian goods were put forth very strongly. Since several issues remained unresolved until today, Modi decided India will not join RCEP," he said. Nadda said that the decision was taken by the Prime Minister to protect the interest of India`s MSMEs, dairy, farmers, pharmaceutical, steel, chemical and other manufacturing sectors against unfair imports. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has upheld Mahatma Gandhi`s principles and not accepted a deal which did not safeguard the interests of the poor. He is recognized the world over as a `tough negotiator` and he has once again demonstrated his resolve to protect the interest of the people of India at all times," Nadda added. India had backed out from RCEP, upholding that the country remains committed to a comprehensive and balanced outcome of negotiations and seeks balance across goods, services and investments and also within each pillar. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member states of ASEAN and six FTA partners.

PM Modi undid damage started by the Congress government: JP Nadda on RCEP

The Congress on Saturday said it respects the verdict of the Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case and appealed to all parties and communities to abide by the secular values and maintain peace and harmony, reported news agency ANi.

The Congress on Saturday said it respects the verdict of the Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case and appealed to all parties and communities to abide by the secular values and maintain peace and harmony, reported news agency ANi. In a statement after meeting of Congress Working Committee, the party said it is the responsibility of every person to reaffirm the tradition of mutual respect and unity that has defined Indian society through the ages. The meeting of CWC, which is the highest decision-making body of the Congress, started in the morning ahead of the verdict of Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case. "The Indian National Congress respects the verdict of the Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case. We appeal to all the parties concerned and to all communities to abide by the secular values and spirit of fraternity enshrined in our Constitution and to maintain peace and harmony," the statement issued by CWC said. "It is the responsibility of each one of us to reaffirm our tradition of mutual respect and unity among all that has defined our society through the ages," the statement added. The meeting of CWC, earlier slated for Sunday, was preponed in view of the verdict of the apex court in the Ayodhya case. Party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that his party was in favour of the construction of Ram Temple. Taking a swipe at BJP for politicising the Ram Temple issue, he said ''This judgement not only opened the doors for the temple's construction but also closed the doors for BJP and others to politicise the issue''. A constitution bench of the Supreme Court, presided over by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, on Saturday directed the central government to form a trust for construction of the temple and said the five-acre plot of the suitable plot be allotted to Sunni Waqf Board for construction of a mosque. (With inputs from ANI)

Ayodhya verdict: Congress says it respects SC judgement, urges people to abide by secular values 

Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance.

The formal announcement of the alliance will be made on Friday in Ranchi where JMM Chief Hemant Soren and AICC in-charge of Jharkhand are scheduled to address a joint press conference.

Interestingly Babu Lal Marandi's Jharkhand Vikas Morcha could not make it to the alliance formed by the opposition parties to contest against the ruling BJP in Jharkhand.

In the recent Lok Sabha polls, his party was a part of the grand-alliance.

According to the sources,&nbsp;the JMM, who was promised by the Congress Party that it will be given a major chunk of seat share to contest in Assembly polls, will be getting more than 50 per cent of total assembly seats.

The Congress party which got major share in the last Lok Sabha polls will be fighting on 28-30 assembly seats.

However, it is yet to be decided whether there will be any chief minister face from the alliance or not.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance.

Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance. The formal announcement of the alliance will be made on Friday in Ranchi where JMM Chief Hemant Soren and AICC in-charge of Jharkhand are scheduled to address a joint press conference. Interestingly Babu Lal Marandi's Jharkhand Vikas Morcha could not make it to the alliance formed by the opposition parties to contest against the ruling BJP in Jharkhand. In the recent Lok Sabha polls, his party was a part of the grand-alliance. According to the sources, the JMM, who was promised by the Congress Party that it will be given a major chunk of seat share to contest in Assembly polls, will be getting more than 50 per cent of total assembly seats. The Congress party which got major share in the last Lok Sabha polls will be fighting on 28-30 assembly seats. However, it is yet to be decided whether there will be any chief minister face from the alliance or not. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

Congress, JMM and RJD seal deal for Jharkhand Assembly Polls

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists.

Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cybersecurity company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus.

"When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform.

Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message.&nbsp;

Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians.

This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens.

According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus.

The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted. The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users.

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists.

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists. Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cybersecurity company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus. "When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform. Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message. Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians. This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens. According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus. The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted. The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users.

Snooping row: Priyanka's phone also hacked, claims Congress

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists.

Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cyber security company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus.

"When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform.

Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message.

Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians.

This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens.

According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus.

The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted.The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users. 
&nbsp;

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists. Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cyber security company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus. "When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform. Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message. Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians. This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens. According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus. The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted.The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users.

Snooping row: Priyanka Gandhi's phone also hacked, claims Congress

Congress is set to launch its digital membership pilot project in Raebareli district, which is the parliamentary constituency of the party's interim president Sonia Gandhi.

The party has chosen one more district where the digital membership drive will be carried out - Bulandshahr.

The organization will also launch this pilot project in Chattisgarh and Goa in the coming days.

A meeting of AICC General Secretary Incharges, state presidents, district presidents have been called on November 4 at the party's war room of the capital for the final discussion before launching the digital membership drive.

A source told ANI that traditional paper-based exercise will still be valid despite the new digital method.

Earlier, the membership of the party was given after taking down details in the receipt books without collecting any supporting documents of the individuals.

In this new method, the party will try to reduce the fake and duplicity of the data.

Congress is set to launch its digital membership pilot project in Raebareli district, which is the parliamentary constituency of the party's interim president Sonia Gandhi.

Congress is set to launch its digital membership pilot project in Raebareli district, which is the parliamentary constituency of the party's interim president Sonia Gandhi. The party has chosen one more district where the digital membership drive will be carried out - Bulandshahr. The organization will also launch this pilot project in Chattisgarh and Goa in the coming days. A meeting of AICC General Secretary Incharges, state presidents, district presidents have been called on November 4 at the party's war room of the capital for the final discussion before launching the digital membership drive. A source told ANI that traditional paper-based exercise will still be valid despite the new digital method. Earlier, the membership of the party was given after taking down details in the receipt books without collecting any supporting documents of the individuals. In this new method, the party will try to reduce the fake and duplicity of the data.

Congress to launch drive for digital enrolment of members in Raebareli

US&nbsp;Representative Katie Hill, who is under investigation by the House ethics committee over an alleged relationship with a congressional staffer, said on Sunday that she was resigning from Congress.

Hill, a 32-year-old California Democrat who was elected to the House of Representatives in November 2018, posted her resignation letter to Twitter, saying she believed it best for her constituents, community and the country.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It is with a broken heart that today I announce my resignation from Congress. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I believe it is the best thing for my constituents, my community, and our country. 
 
See my official statement below. <a href="https://t.co/RO8B0znc6C">https://t.co/RO8B0znc6C</a>
— Katie Hill (@KatieHill4CA) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatieHill4CA/status/1188592008274669569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Hill has admitted to an "inappropriate" relationship with a campaign staffer when she was running for Congress but denied she had a sexual relationship with a staffer in her office, according to media reports.

The ethics committee said on Wednesday it was "aware of public allegations... (that Hill) may have engaged in a sexual relationship with an individual on her congressional staff," and said it was investigating.

Hill, who is going through a divorce, apologized in her resignation letter for "mistakes made along the way" but also lamented a "smear campaign".

Hill blamed her husband and said she was pursuing legal options after media outlets published intimate photos that purported to be of the lawmaker.

"Having private photos of personal moments weaponised against me has been an appalling invasion of my privacy," said Hill. "It's also illegal."

Hill serves on the House Armed Services and Oversight and Reform Committees, where she is also vice-chair.

She defeated incumbent Republican Steve Knight in a district north of Los Angeles, helping the Democrats win control of the House. Her district is seen by election analysts at the Cook Political Report as one of the most competitive in the country.

Although Hill’s departure could help Republicans win back her seat in November 2020, they still face an uphill climb in their effort to regain control of the House.

US Representative Katie Hill, who is under investigation by the House ethics committee over an alleged relationship with a congressional staffer, said on Sunday that she was resigning from Congress.

US Representative Katie Hill, who is under investigation by the House ethics committee over an alleged relationship with a congressional staffer, said on Sunday that she was resigning from Congress. Hill, a 32-year-old California Democrat who was elected to the House of Representatives in November 2018, posted her resignation letter to Twitter, saying she believed it best for her constituents, community and the country. It is with a broken heart that today I announce my resignation from Congress. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I believe it is the best thing for my constituents, my community, and our country. See my official statement below. https://t.co/RO8B0znc6C — Katie Hill (@KatieHill4CA) October 27, 2019 × Hill has admitted to an "inappropriate" relationship with a campaign staffer when she was running for Congress but denied she had a sexual relationship with a staffer in her office, according to media reports. The ethics committee said on Wednesday it was "aware of public allegations... (that Hill) may have engaged in a sexual relationship with an individual on her congressional staff," and said it was investigating. Hill, who is going through a divorce, apologized in her resignation letter for "mistakes made along the way" but also lamented a "smear campaign". Hill blamed her husband and said she was pursuing legal options after media outlets published intimate photos that purported to be of the lawmaker. "Having private photos of personal moments weaponised against me has been an appalling invasion of my privacy," said Hill. "It's also illegal." Hill serves on the House Armed Services and Oversight and Reform Committees, where she is also vice-chair. She defeated incumbent Republican Steve Knight in a district north of Los Angeles, helping the Democrats win control of the House. Her district is seen by election analysts at the Cook Political Report as one of the most competitive in the country. Although Hill’s departure could help Republicans win back her seat in November 2020, they still face an uphill climb in their effort to regain control of the House.

US Representative Katie Hill, facing ethics probe, resigns from Congress

Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who was granted bail by Delhi High Court in a money laundering case, said on Saturday that he will fight for justice.

"They have made me stronger. There is no question of getting weak, no question of surrendering. I will fight for justice. If I have done anything wrong, let them hang me. Let the God and law punish me," Shivakumar said in a press conference here.

The Congress leader said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has moved the Supreme Court against his bail.

"I want to make one thing very clear, if I have done anything wrong in my election affidavit... an enquiry is on in the matter. Everything is in the public domain," Shivakumar said.

He said that he was worried why something like this happened to him and was also surprised at the support he got from people after his arrest.

"I'm worried how am I going to give back to people for the support they have given me. People from across the country stood by me and came to meet me. I don't think I will ever be able to pay them back," Shivakumar said.

He said that senior Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Ahmed Patel and Anand Sharma visited him in the prison.

Earlier today Shivakumar arrived in Bengaluru where he got a warm welcome from his supporters.

He was released from Tihar Jail on October 23 after Delhi High Court granted bail to him.

Shivakumar was arrested on September 3 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and was sent to judicial custody till October 25.

The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department in which it had alleged tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.&nbsp;

Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who was granted bail by Delhi High Court in a money laundering case, said on Saturday that he will fight for justice. "They have made me stronger.

Congress leader DK Shivakumar, who was granted bail by Delhi High Court in a money laundering case, said on Saturday that he will fight for justice. "They have made me stronger. There is no question of getting weak, no question of surrendering. I will fight for justice. If I have done anything wrong, let them hang me. Let the God and law punish me," Shivakumar said in a press conference here. The Congress leader said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has moved the Supreme Court against his bail. "I want to make one thing very clear, if I have done anything wrong in my election affidavit... an enquiry is on in the matter. Everything is in the public domain," Shivakumar said. He said that he was worried why something like this happened to him and was also surprised at the support he got from people after his arrest. "I'm worried how am I going to give back to people for the support they have given me. People from across the country stood by me and came to meet me. I don't think I will ever be able to pay them back," Shivakumar said. He said that senior Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Ahmed Patel and Anand Sharma visited him in the prison. Earlier today Shivakumar arrived in Bengaluru where he got a warm welcome from his supporters. He was released from Tihar Jail on October 23 after Delhi High Court granted bail to him. Shivakumar was arrested on September 3 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and was sent to judicial custody till October 25. The alleged money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department in which it had alleged tax evasion and hawala transactions amounting to crores.

DK Shivakumar arrives in Bengaluru, says 'will fight for justice'

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Friday said that Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa should call an all-party meeting to discuss the implications of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement in detail.

Siddaramaiah said that Yediyurappa should take the delegation to the Centre and bring Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention to the issue.

Earlier on Friday, the Congress party opposed India signing the RCEP agreement, saying it will be the "third big jolt" to the Indian economy after demonetisation and GST and will result in liberalising Chinese imports to the Indian market.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that there was the possibility of India signing the RCEP agreement.

"After demonetisation and GST, it will be the third big jolt to our economy when the Prime Minister goes to Bangkok next month and expresses India's agreement to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership," he said.

Ramesh said that the balance of trade was heavily in favour of China. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement among 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Friday said that Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa should call an all-party meeting to discuss the implications of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement in detail.

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Friday said that Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa should call an all-party meeting to discuss the implications of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement in detail. Siddaramaiah said that Yediyurappa should take the delegation to the Centre and bring Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention to the issue. Earlier on Friday, the Congress party opposed India signing the RCEP agreement, saying it will be the "third big jolt" to the Indian economy after demonetisation and GST and will result in liberalising Chinese imports to the Indian market. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that there was the possibility of India signing the RCEP agreement. "After demonetisation and GST, it will be the third big jolt to our economy when the Prime Minister goes to Bangkok next month and expresses India's agreement to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership," he said. Ramesh said that the balance of trade was heavily in favour of China. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement among 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Yediyurappa should call all-party meet to discuss RCEP implications: Siddaramaiah

The Congress on Friday opposed India signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, saying it will be the "third big jolt" to the Indian economy after demonetization and GST and will result in liberalising Chinese imports to the Indian market.

Addressing a press conference here, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that there was a possibility of India signing the RCEP agreement.

"After demonetisation and GST, it will be the third big jolt to our economy when the Prime Minister goes to Bangkok the next month and expresses India`s agreement to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership," he said.

He said the government was not talking about` Made in India` now and the agreement will encourage `Made in China`.

Ramesh said that the balance of trade was heavily in favour of China.

"RCEP will result in the liberalisation of imports from China. We do not know what was discussed in Wuhan or Mahabalipuram but we can see the results, there will be liberalisation in imports from China. `Made in India` is not mentioned now. It`ll encourage `Made in China`," he said.

He said that managing director of Amul has written a letter to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in which he has expressed concern and said that Indian dairy cooperative will be ruined if India proceeds with RCEP.

"Managing Director of Amul has written to Minister Piyush Goyal stating that India should not do RCEP, else dairy cooperative would be ruined. The milk will be imported from New Zealand, sugar from Australia, dairy products would be imported and it will also ruin our agriculture," he said.

"India will accept the free flow of data under RCEP. The national interest particularly the national security has been removed from the draft RCEP," he added.

Ramesh alleged that the government was keen to sign the agreement due to "mismanagement of the economy".

"There is a text to RCEP, there is context to RCEP. The text to RCEP is bad, the concept is worst," he added.

RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement among 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp;

The Congress on Friday opposed India signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, saying it will be the "third big jolt" to the Indian economy after demonetization and GST and will result in liberalising Chinese imports to the Indian market.

The Congress on Friday opposed India signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, saying it will be the "third big jolt" to the Indian economy after demonetization and GST and will result in liberalising Chinese imports to the Indian market. Addressing a press conference here, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that there was a possibility of India signing the RCEP agreement. "After demonetisation and GST, it will be the third big jolt to our economy when the Prime Minister goes to Bangkok the next month and expresses India`s agreement to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership," he said. He said the government was not talking about` Made in India` now and the agreement will encourage `Made in China`. Ramesh said that the balance of trade was heavily in favour of China. "RCEP will result in the liberalisation of imports from China. We do not know what was discussed in Wuhan or Mahabalipuram but we can see the results, there will be liberalisation in imports from China. `Made in India` is not mentioned now. It`ll encourage `Made in China`," he said. He said that managing director of Amul has written a letter to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in which he has expressed concern and said that Indian dairy cooperative will be ruined if India proceeds with RCEP. "Managing Director of Amul has written to Minister Piyush Goyal stating that India should not do RCEP, else dairy cooperative would be ruined. The milk will be imported from New Zealand, sugar from Australia, dairy products would be imported and it will also ruin our agriculture," he said. "India will accept the free flow of data under RCEP. The national interest particularly the national security has been removed from the draft RCEP," he added. Ramesh alleged that the government was keen to sign the agreement due to "mismanagement of the economy". "There is a text to RCEP, there is context to RCEP. The text to RCEP is bad, the concept is worst," he added. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement among 10 ASEAN countries and their six FTA partners China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

RCEP will be third big jolt to economy by PM Modi, says Congress' Jairam Ramesh

Haryana voted en masse for the BJP in the recent Lok Sabha election and gave Narendra Modi all 10 Lok Sabha seats. But that's just that. The BJP found itself unable to convert the widespread support for the Prime Minister into a mandate for its government led by Manohar Lal Khattar. This, despite the fact that the party managed to increase its vote share over its 2014 performance.

The BJP won 40 of the 90 constituencies in the Haryana Assembly, which means it is six seats short of the simple majority needed to form a government on its own. It scored 36.45 per cent of the votes, which was an increase of 3.25 percentage points over its 2014 performance of 33.2 per cent, which had give it 47 seats in the Assembly.

However, the sticking point that led most observers to expect a massive electoral sweep for the BJP in the 2019 Assembly election was the fact that the party had received a mind-boggling 58 per cent of the votes. This was an extremely steep increase from the 34.84 per cent the party had scored in the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

However, this very real Modi wave doesn't seem to have translated to the Assembly elections for the BJP.

The Congress managed to hold on to its vote share in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and notched an increase of eight percentage points over its score in the 2014 Assembly elections. This gave the party victories in 31 seats, up from 15 seats in 2014.

But, if the BJP's vote share increased and the Congress's vote share increased, where did these votes come from? The likely answer to that is that they came from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), which crashed from an inelastic and steady vote share between 22 and 24 percentage points over the past few elections to a mere 2.45 per cent.

The Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), which broke away from the INLD in a family feud, seemed to be the biggest beneficiary of the INLD's decimation. The fledgeling party managed to score victories in 10 seats. The JJP's vote share was not presented separately by the Election Commission of India since it is not yet recognised. Whether the votes that abandoned the INLD vote shifted in totality to the JJP remains to be seen.

Simply put, this many not exactly have been a vote against the government of ML Khattar. It is just that vote bloc migrations as a result of the collapse of the INLD put in place a situation where the increases in vote share just didn't convert into seats for the BJP. Only one thing is certain, there was a massive Modi wave in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, and the Prime Minister's popularity need not necessarily translate to victories for the Chief Ministers he put in place over the past five years. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-haryana-election-result-shows-pm-modi-s-popularity-does-not-automatically-assure-bjp-victory-2798544">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Haryana voted en masse for the BJP in the recent Lok Sabha election and gave Narendra Modi all 10 Lok Sabha seats. But that's just that. The BJP found itself unable to convert the widespread support for the Prime Minister into a mandate for its government led by Manohar Lal Khattar.

Haryana voted en masse for the BJP in the recent Lok Sabha election and gave Narendra Modi all 10 Lok Sabha seats. But that's just that. The BJP found itself unable to convert the widespread support for the Prime Minister into a mandate for its government led by Manohar Lal Khattar. This, despite the fact that the party managed to increase its vote share over its 2014 performance. The BJP won 40 of the 90 constituencies in the Haryana Assembly, which means it is six seats short of the simple majority needed to form a government on its own. It scored 36.45 per cent of the votes, which was an increase of 3.25 percentage points over its 2014 performance of 33.2 per cent, which had give it 47 seats in the Assembly. However, the sticking point that led most observers to expect a massive electoral sweep for the BJP in the 2019 Assembly election was the fact that the party had received a mind-boggling 58 per cent of the votes. This was an extremely steep increase from the 34.84 per cent the party had scored in the 2014 Lok Sabha election. However, this very real Modi wave doesn't seem to have translated to the Assembly elections for the BJP. The Congress managed to hold on to its vote share in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and notched an increase of eight percentage points over its score in the 2014 Assembly elections. This gave the party victories in 31 seats, up from 15 seats in 2014. But, if the BJP's vote share increased and the Congress's vote share increased, where did these votes come from? The likely answer to that is that they came from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), which crashed from an inelastic and steady vote share between 22 and 24 percentage points over the past few elections to a mere 2.45 per cent. The Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), which broke away from the INLD in a family feud, seemed to be the biggest beneficiary of the INLD's decimation. The fledgeling party managed to score victories in 10 seats. The JJP's vote share was not presented separately by the Election Commission of India since it is not yet recognised. Whether the votes that abandoned the INLD vote shifted in totality to the JJP remains to be seen. Simply put, this many not exactly have been a vote against the government of ML Khattar. It is just that vote bloc migrations as a result of the collapse of the INLD put in place a situation where the increases in vote share just didn't convert into seats for the BJP. Only one thing is certain, there was a massive Modi wave in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, and the Prime Minister's popularity need not necessarily translate to victories for the Chief Ministers he put in place over the past five years. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Haryana election result shows PM Modi's popularity does not automatically assure BJP victory

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-sends-unsigned-letter-seeking-brexit-delay-256989">Brexit extension</a> to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election.

"I'd be surprised if we land today," said an EU official before ambassadors to the 27 other EU member states went into a meeting to discuss postponing Britain's departure from the bloc, less than a week before the current deadline of October&nbsp;31.

Separately, a senior EU official said the 27 may agree in principle to a delay but set no new date until after parliament's vote on Monday on whether to have a snap election on December&nbsp;12.

Johnson admitted on Thursday that he would not meet his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-adamant-on-brexit-deadline-despite-delay-request-257170">"do or die" deadline</a> of October&nbsp;31 and demanded a pre-Christmas poll to end what he cast as the "nightmare" of the Brexit crisis.

EU envoys to Brussels were due to discuss the length of a third delay to Brexit on Friday, though officials said they would be reluctant to set a date because it could dictate the direction of political events in London.

According to a draft decision by the 27, which was seen by Reuters on Thursday evening, a delay would be granted "with the view to allowing for the finalisation of the ratification" of the divorce agreement sealed with Johnson last week.

The draft text left the new Brexit date blank, but said the split could take place earlier if ratification was completed earlier - an idea known as "flextension", an amalgamation of the words "flexible" and "extension".

An EU official explained: "It's basically between a three-month flextension or a two-tier one."

Under the first idea, Britain would leave on Jan. 31, three months after the current departure date, but earlier if it and the EU raify an agreement before that. The second one would include a second specific date when Britain could leave.

Johnson won the leadership of the ruling Conservative Party to become prime minister in a minority government by staking his career on getting Brexit done by October&nbsp;31, but after parliament rejected his proposed legislative timetable on Tuesday he will fail to do that.

Brexit was initially supposed to have taken place on March 29 but Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was forced to delay twice as parliament defeated her Brexit deal by margins of between 58 and 230 votes earlier this year. Her failure cost May her job.

Johnson said in a letter to opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Thursday he would give parliament more time to approve his Brexit deal by Nov. 6 but lawmakers must on Monday back a December election, Johnson's third attempt to try to force a snap vote.

"Prolonging this paralysis into 2020 would have dangerous consequences," he said. "If I win a majority in this election, we will then ratify the great new deal that I have negotiated, get Brexit done in January and the country will move on."

Corbyn said he would wait to see what the EU decides on a Brexit delay before deciding which way to vote on Monday, repeating that he could only back an election when the risk of Johnson taking Britain out of the EU without a deal to smooth the transition was off the table.

It is not clear how Corbyn would respond if the EU makes no decision on a date on Friday.

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a Brexit extension to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election.

The European Union looked set on Friday to delay a decision on Britain's request for a Brexit extension to give time for Britain's parliament to decide on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for an election. "I'd be surprised if we land today," said an EU official before ambassadors to the 27 other EU member states went into a meeting to discuss postponing Britain's departure from the bloc, less than a week before the current deadline of October 31. Separately, a senior EU official said the 27 may agree in principle to a delay but set no new date until after parliament's vote on Monday on whether to have a snap election on December 12. Johnson admitted on Thursday that he would not meet his "do or die" deadline of October 31 and demanded a pre-Christmas poll to end what he cast as the "nightmare" of the Brexit crisis. EU envoys to Brussels were due to discuss the length of a third delay to Brexit on Friday, though officials said they would be reluctant to set a date because it could dictate the direction of political events in London. According to a draft decision by the 27, which was seen by Reuters on Thursday evening, a delay would be granted "with the view to allowing for the finalisation of the ratification" of the divorce agreement sealed with Johnson last week. The draft text left the new Brexit date blank, but said the split could take place earlier if ratification was completed earlier - an idea known as "flextension", an amalgamation of the words "flexible" and "extension". An EU official explained: "It's basically between a three-month flextension or a two-tier one." Under the first idea, Britain would leave on Jan. 31, three months after the current departure date, but earlier if it and the EU raify an agreement before that. The second one would include a second specific date when Britain could leave. Johnson won the leadership of the ruling Conservative Party to become prime minister in a minority government by staking his career on getting Brexit done by October 31, but after parliament rejected his proposed legislative timetable on Tuesday he will fail to do that. Brexit was initially supposed to have taken place on March 29 but Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, was forced to delay twice as parliament defeated her Brexit deal by margins of between 58 and 230 votes earlier this year. Her failure cost May her job. Johnson said in a letter to opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Thursday he would give parliament more time to approve his Brexit deal by Nov. 6 but lawmakers must on Monday back a December election, Johnson's third attempt to try to force a snap vote. "Prolonging this paralysis into 2020 would have dangerous consequences," he said. "If I win a majority in this election, we will then ratify the great new deal that I have negotiated, get Brexit done in January and the country will move on." Corbyn said he would wait to see what the EU decides on a Brexit delay before deciding which way to vote on Monday, repeating that he could only back an election when the risk of Johnson taking Britain out of the EU without a deal to smooth the transition was off the table. It is not clear how Corbyn would respond if the EU makes no decision on a date on Friday.

Any government that BJP forms in Haryana will be illegitimate, illegally constituted: Congress

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 103&nbsp;assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, while its ally Shiv Sena is ahead in 63 seats, as per official trends from the Election Commission (EC).

 
Congress, on the other hand, is leading on five seats while its alliance partner, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is ahead in 41&nbsp;seats.

 
Independents are leading on four seats and the Krantikari Shetkari Party is ahead in one constituency, according to the EC. 
There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly. Counting of votes began at 8 am today.

 
The state went to polls in a single phase on October 21.

 
The electoral fate of 3,237 candidates in Maharashtra was sealed in EVMs by the voters who had exercised their franchise in the assembly polls. At least 96,661 polling booths were set up in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes.

 
BJP had contested on 150 seats while Shiv Sena had fielded it candidates in 124 constituencies in the state. The remaining seats were left for smaller allies. On the other hand, Congress contested the polls in alliance with the NCP.

 
The assembly poll results will be crucial for the NCP as well as for Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), AIMIM and Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA).

 
Most exit polls have predicted the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance getting elected in Maharashtra but have differed in their projection of the number of seats.

 
The assembly elections are the first after the BJP-led government's decision to revoke Article 370. A verdict in its favour will give a boost to the party ahead of the winter session of Parliament next month.

 
A victory will also keep the political momentum with the BJP after its emphatic victory in the Lok Sabha polls earlier this year under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 
The polls are equally as crucial for the Congress which has faced desertions after its second successive debacle in the Lok Sabha polls. A strong performance will help the party in its process of electoral revival.

 
The BJP has already declared that incumbent Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will continue to lead the state government if the party is voted to power.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 103 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, while its ally Shiv Sena is ahead in 63 seats, as per official trends from the Election Commission (EC).

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 103 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, while its ally Shiv Sena is ahead in 63 seats, as per official trends from the Election Commission (EC). Congress, on the other hand, is leading on five seats while its alliance partner, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is ahead in 41 seats. Independents are leading on four seats and the Krantikari Shetkari Party is ahead in one constituency, according to the EC. There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly. Counting of votes began at 8 am today. The state went to polls in a single phase on October 21. The electoral fate of 3,237 candidates in Maharashtra was sealed in EVMs by the voters who had exercised their franchise in the assembly polls. At least 96,661 polling booths were set up in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes. BJP had contested on 150 seats while Shiv Sena had fielded it candidates in 124 constituencies in the state. The remaining seats were left for smaller allies. On the other hand, Congress contested the polls in alliance with the NCP. The assembly poll results will be crucial for the NCP as well as for Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), AIMIM and Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA). Most exit polls have predicted the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance getting elected in Maharashtra but have differed in their projection of the number of seats. The assembly elections are the first after the BJP-led government's decision to revoke Article 370. A verdict in its favour will give a boost to the party ahead of the winter session of Parliament next month. A victory will also keep the political momentum with the BJP after its emphatic victory in the Lok Sabha polls earlier this year under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The polls are equally as crucial for the Congress which has faced desertions after its second successive debacle in the Lok Sabha polls. A strong performance will help the party in its process of electoral revival. The BJP has already declared that incumbent Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will continue to lead the state government if the party is voted to power.

BJP leading in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena not far behind

The results of Assembly elections&nbsp;in Maharashtra and Haryana should set the &nbsp;BJP leadership rethink about their ‘winning’ formula. Do they need to reinvent this formula as it doesn’t seem to be working as effectively in the state assembly polls as it has worked in the national elections.

A key takeaway from these poll results is that people in India vote differently for the assembly and the parliamentary polls. While at the national level, the national leadership and the ideology of a party have a decisive impact on the poll outcome, in Assembly polls there are multiple factors that influence the poll outcome such as local leadership, ticket distribution, caste, number of parties that are contesting, profile of individual candidates and tactical understanding between different players in multi-cornered contest. But most importantly, it is the anti-incumbency that plays a significant role in assembly polls. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On all the above parameters, the performance of the BJP has been credible. It has turned upside down the key political dictum of Indian politics i.e. most governments have to be voted out of power after one term. In most of the states where the BJP has captured power, it has been able to make a comeback, even if with reduced numbers. It is a significant achievement and it underlines the fact that people believe that the BJP tries to provide good governance. In some spheres, it is able to deliver and in some spheres it is not.

But overall, the BJP has been able to build an image of a party that is concerned more with governance and less with the self-interest of the individuals. If one looks at the Assembly results of both Haryana and Maharashtra from this perspective, one would be able to understand that how the BJP lost some seats in both the states but still remains the most preferred party.

Another important takeaway from these poll results is that the Congress Party needs to shun Rahul Gandhi completely if it is interested in revival. It is clear from these poll results that Congress has performed much better than even its own expectation. One of the primary reasons for this performance is the stepping down of Rahul Gandhi. It is a well-known fact that Rahul Gandhi had backed Ashok Tanwar in Haryana and not BS Hooda.

The latter was backed by Sonia Gandhi after she again took over the reins of the Congress recently leading to exit of Rahul loyalist Ashok Tanwar. And it is former Chief Minister BS Hooda who has spearheaded the revival of Congress in Haryana.&nbsp;

The Assembly poll results would surely lead to the next round of power struggle within the Congress as the old guard is likely to strike back with greater confidence after the party has performed well without Rahul Gandhi. One of the possible outcomes of this revival of the old guard could be the comeback of Rahul as the Party President much sooner than expected as he is likely to feel more and more insecure in days to come. It would be interesting to see how long Sonia can protect him from this power struggle.

Meanwhile, the BJP also needs to go back and rethink about the gap between expectations and actual performance on the ground. &nbsp;The party needs to review where did it go wrong in Haryana and how it could have improved its tally further in Maharashtra. &nbsp;The formidable organisational network of the BJP has become probably vulnerable at the local level in certain places and the party need not overlook that.

The party also needs to rethink about the utility of high decibel campaigns. Such campaigns are effective only when they are backed by organisational outreach at the grassroots level. It seems that many ‘members’ or ‘party workers’ didn’t do the task assigned to them at the grassroots level. 
 
There was intense infighting in the party units in both the states. The same situation prevails in the state of Jharkhand and Delhi also which are going to go to polls soon.

It remains to be seen now, which of the party’s learn from these polls and do not repeat its past mistakes. If the Congress wants to revive and challenge the BJP, it needs to keep Rahul Gandhi far away, if the BJP wants to win back Delhi and retain Jharkhand, it needs to review its organisational outreach at the grassroots level and control infighting within its state units. 
 
It also needs to look at some of the distress signals in the economic sphere that affect day to day lives of the common people. The BJP must not forget amidst its high decibel campaign that ‘for a hungry man, utopia is a world full of food.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Haryana should set the BJP leadership rethink about their ‘winning’ formula. Do they need to reinvent this formula as it doesn’t seem to be working as effectively in the state assembly polls as it has worked in the national elections.

The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Haryana should set the BJP leadership rethink about their ‘winning’ formula. Do they need to reinvent this formula as it doesn’t seem to be working as effectively in the state assembly polls as it has worked in the national elections. A key takeaway from these poll results is that people in India vote differently for the assembly and the parliamentary polls. While at the national level, the national leadership and the ideology of a party have a decisive impact on the poll outcome, in Assembly polls there are multiple factors that influence the poll outcome such as local leadership, ticket distribution, caste, number of parties that are contesting, profile of individual candidates and tactical understanding between different players in multi-cornered contest. But most importantly, it is the anti-incumbency that plays a significant role in assembly polls. On all the above parameters, the performance of the BJP has been credible. It has turned upside down the key political dictum of Indian politics i.e. most governments have to be voted out of power after one term. In most of the states where the BJP has captured power, it has been able to make a comeback, even if with reduced numbers. It is a significant achievement and it underlines the fact that people believe that the BJP tries to provide good governance. In some spheres, it is able to deliver and in some spheres it is not. But overall, the BJP has been able to build an image of a party that is concerned more with governance and less with the self-interest of the individuals. If one looks at the Assembly results of both Haryana and Maharashtra from this perspective, one would be able to understand that how the BJP lost some seats in both the states but still remains the most preferred party. Another important takeaway from these poll results is that the Congress Party needs to shun Rahul Gandhi completely if it is interested in revival. It is clear from these poll results that Congress has performed much better than even its own expectation. One of the primary reasons for this performance is the stepping down of Rahul Gandhi. It is a well-known fact that Rahul Gandhi had backed Ashok Tanwar in Haryana and not BS Hooda. The latter was backed by Sonia Gandhi after she again took over the reins of the Congress recently leading to exit of Rahul loyalist Ashok Tanwar. And it is former Chief Minister BS Hooda who has spearheaded the revival of Congress in Haryana. The Assembly poll results would surely lead to the next round of power struggle within the Congress as the old guard is likely to strike back with greater confidence after the party has performed well without Rahul Gandhi. One of the possible outcomes of this revival of the old guard could be the comeback of Rahul as the Party President much sooner than expected as he is likely to feel more and more insecure in days to come. It would be interesting to see how long Sonia can protect him from this power struggle. Meanwhile, the BJP also needs to go back and rethink about the gap between expectations and actual performance on the ground. The party needs to review where did it go wrong in Haryana and how it could have improved its tally further in Maharashtra. The formidable organisational network of the BJP has become probably vulnerable at the local level in certain places and the party need not overlook that. The party also needs to rethink about the utility of high decibel campaigns. Such campaigns are effective only when they are backed by organisational outreach at the grassroots level. It seems that many ‘members’ or ‘party workers’ didn’t do the task assigned to them at the grassroots level. There was intense infighting in the party units in both the states. The same situation prevails in the state of Jharkhand and Delhi also which are going to go to polls soon. It remains to be seen now, which of the party’s learn from these polls and do not repeat its past mistakes. If the Congress wants to revive and challenge the BJP, it needs to keep Rahul Gandhi far away, if the BJP wants to win back Delhi and retain Jharkhand, it needs to review its organisational outreach at the grassroots level and control infighting within its state units. It also needs to look at some of the distress signals in the economic sphere that affect day to day lives of the common people. The BJP must not forget amidst its high decibel campaign that ‘for a hungry man, utopia is a world full of food. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Assembly election results: Lessons BJP and Congress need to learn

congress-0

Congress, News on Congress, stories on Congress, articles on Congress, Congress stories at Wion, Congress news, Congress latest news

congress 0