Days&nbsp;after an Independent candidate raised objections over<a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/rahul-gandhi"> Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a>'s nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid.

Defending Gandhi his lawyer KC Kaushik said that Rahul was born in India and he holds an Indian passport.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-complaint-filed-against-rahul-gandhi-for-making-allegedly-derogatory-remarks-on-pm-modi-211455">Rahul Gandhi </a>was born in India and he holds an Indian passport, he never took citizenship of any other country. His passport, Voter-ID, and his income tax, everything is of India".

Speaking on the objections raised on Rahul Gandhi's educational qualification Kaushik said he does not know who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-known-as-raul-vinci-in-britain-italy-yogi-adityanath-212438">Raul Vinci</a> was and where he came from.

"I don't know who Raul Vinci is or where he came from. Rahul Gandhi had done his M.Phil in 1995 from University of Cambridge, I have attached a copy of the certificate, ".

An independent candidate on Saturday raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s nomination from Amethi, alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit.

Complainant Dhruv Raj’s lawyer Ravi Prakash showed reporters purported copies of a certificate of incorporation of a UK-registered company in which the Congress leader is stated to be a British national.

Citing the complaint, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson G.V.L Narasimha Rao demanded that Mr. Gandhi come clean on the matter.

Days after an Independent candidate raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid.

Days after an Independent candidate raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid. Defending Gandhi his lawyer KC Kaushik said that Rahul was born in India and he holds an Indian passport. "Rahul Gandhi was born in India and he holds an Indian passport, he never took citizenship of any other country. His passport, Voter-ID, and his income tax, everything is of India". Speaking on the objections raised on Rahul Gandhi's educational qualification Kaushik said he does not know who Raul Vinci was and where he came from. "I don't know who Raul Vinci is or where he came from. Rahul Gandhi had done his M.Phil in 1995 from University of Cambridge, I have attached a copy of the certificate, ". An independent candidate on Saturday raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s nomination from Amethi, alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit. Complainant Dhruv Raj’s lawyer Ravi Prakash showed reporters purported copies of a certificate of incorporation of a UK-registered company in which the Congress leader is stated to be a British national. Citing the complaint, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson G.V.L Narasimha Rao demanded that Mr. Gandhi come clean on the matter.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination is valid: Amethi returning officer

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-gives-clean-chit-to-amit-shah-over-nagpur-nadia-speeches-215784">BJP president Amit Shah</a> said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-far-will-the-united-opposition-go-without-prime-ministerial-face-194989">Opposition is leaderless</a>, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

"Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said.

Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!"

"Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said.

Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-not-allow-abdullahs-muftis-to-divide-india-pm-modi-in-210258">Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister</a>, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same.

"But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said.

"Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked.

On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell."

When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath".

Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added.

Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh. "Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said. Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!" "Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said. Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same. "But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said. "Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked. On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell." When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath". Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added. Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

If opposition wins, there will be different PM every day: Amit Shah

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it.

Taking to Twitter, he said, "Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which 'So-called Surgical Strike'&nbsp;are you attributing to my tenure as COAS (chief of army staff). Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story."

The statement from the Union Minister came days after Congress leader Rajiv Shukla told reporters at the AICC briefing that six surgical strikes were conducted during Manmohan Singh government.

Shukla had further stated that two surgical strikes were carried out when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister- one on January 21, 2000, in Nadala Enclave across the Neelam River and second on September 18, 2003, in Baroh Sector in Poonch.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday mocked the Congress party for its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime and said after questioning the NDA government's strikes it was now claiming having done similar strikes by saying "me too, me too".

The Congress hit back saying by making these remarks the prime minister was insulting the armed forces.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it.

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it. Taking to Twitter, he said, "Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which 'So-called Surgical Strike' are you attributing to my tenure as COAS (chief of army staff). Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story." The statement from the Union Minister came days after Congress leader Rajiv Shukla told reporters at the AICC briefing that six surgical strikes were conducted during Manmohan Singh government. Shukla had further stated that two surgical strikes were carried out when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister- one on January 21, 2000, in Nadala Enclave across the Neelam River and second on September 18, 2003, in Baroh Sector in Poonch. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday mocked the Congress party for its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime and said after questioning the NDA government's strikes it was now claiming having done similar strikes by saying "me too, me too". The Congress hit back saying by making these remarks the prime minister was insulting the armed forces.

VK Singh mocks Congress for claiming 6 surgical strikes during UPA government, says party has a habit of lying

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party.

Addressing a press conference at the party office, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao alleged that the Congress dispensation in the state is "minting money and diverting government funds. Rs 281 crore unaccounted cash was traced from his close associates".

Describing Madhya Pradesh as a new ATM of Congress, Rao alleged that as per entries in a diary traced by Income Tax Department, senior Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Randeep Surjewala also got a cut from this unaccounted cash.&nbsp;

The Congress dismissed the charge, saying it was a sign of desperation of the ruling party. Senior party leader Anand Sharma said that raising these issues at this stage shows the mindset of the BJP and the ruling government which were panicking.

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party.

The BJP Friday attacked the Congress over unaccounted money being traced from "close associates" of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, saying the state has become a "new ATM" for the grand old party. Addressing a press conference at the party office, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao alleged that the Congress dispensation in the state is "minting money and diverting government funds. Rs 281 crore unaccounted cash was traced from his close associates". Describing Madhya Pradesh as a new ATM of Congress, Rao alleged that as per entries in a diary traced by Income Tax Department, senior Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Randeep Surjewala also got a cut from this unaccounted cash. The Congress dismissed the charge, saying it was a sign of desperation of the ruling party. Senior party leader Anand Sharma said that raising these issues at this stage shows the mindset of the BJP and the ruling government which were panicking.

Madhya Pradesh is new ATM for Congress: BJP

Terming the United Nations' move of designating <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-issues-order-to-freeze-masood-azhars-assets-impose-travel-ban-215544&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp19Sr-v7hAhWyjuYKHaxNDCUQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1C5DmE00G8R7hLRhr6kweW">Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror.

The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue.

"Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said.

"Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said.

It added that<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-not-celebrating-moment-of-great-pride-arun-jaitley-on-masood-azhar-listing-215319/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitu_Lw-v7hAhUcknAKHcYYBIY4ChAWMAV6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw3voq0i3jLLbwqXuSqL6naJ"> it was unfortunate that the Congress</a> even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist".

"Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said.

One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena&nbsp;added.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing. In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror. The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue. "Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said. "Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said. It added that it was unfortunate that the Congress even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist". "Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said. One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena added.

Shiv Sena slams Congress for questioning timing of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a 'global terrorist'

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-smriti-irani-visits-amethi-more-than-rahul-gandhi-says-yogi-adityanath-214907&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfjtzOvfzhAhXeknAKHXPzAEIQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1uNmGqubfdtnamPXMxeCEL"> Union Minister Smriti Irani</a>, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab.

"The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose. I am sure of my win. This will be a victory for the people of Amethi," Union Minister Irani told Smita Prakash, ANI in an exclusive interview.

"I am a normal party worker, even though I have been working for the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We gave a chase to the Congress president that he had to run even after the SP and the BSP pledged support on the seat," she said.

"It was the first time that party workers of a political outfit had to ask their chief to look out for another seat, as they felt Amethi was not a secure seat anymore. That tells you how good is the atmosphere for the BJP. This is not a fight against the BJP and the Congress. It is a genuine fight between the people and a 'lapata saansad(Sansad)' (missing parliamentarian). He was absent for five years and even during the campaign. He also did not speak about Amethi in the Parliament," she added.

Irani's statement comes close on the heels of Congress general secretary east UP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's statement on Wednesday in Raebareli where she had said that her party had fielded some candidates in UP with an aim to cut into the BJP's vote share.

"Congress will win on the seats where our candidates are strong. Where our candidates are slightly lightweight, they will cut into the BJP`s vote share," she had told media persons.

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav has also dismissed Priyanka`s statement as an "excuse" since the "people are not with them."&nbsp;

"I cannot believe in these types of statements. I do not believe that the Congress has fielded weak candidates anywhere. No party does it. People are not with them. That is why they are making excuses," Yadav told ANI in an exclusive interview.

In Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab, SP is contesting 37 seats, BSP 38, and their ally - RLD - three seats. They have not fielded candidates from Amethi and Raebareli from where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi are seeking their re-election.

So far 39 Lok Sabha seats have gone to polls in the state, while remaining 41 will go to polls during the remaining three phases of the polling, the last phase of voting on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says Union Minister Smriti Irani, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab.

The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose, says Union Minister Smriti Irani, as the battle of ballots intensifies in India's politically most important state where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab. "The Congress party in Uttar Pradesh is fighting a battle to lose. I am sure of my win. This will be a victory for the people of Amethi," Union Minister Irani told Smita Prakash, ANI in an exclusive interview. "I am a normal party worker, even though I have been working for the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We gave a chase to the Congress president that he had to run even after the SP and the BSP pledged support on the seat," she said. "It was the first time that party workers of a political outfit had to ask their chief to look out for another seat, as they felt Amethi was not a secure seat anymore. That tells you how good is the atmosphere for the BJP. This is not a fight against the BJP and the Congress. It is a genuine fight between the people and a 'lapata saansad(Sansad)' (missing parliamentarian). He was absent for five years and even during the campaign. He also did not speak about Amethi in the Parliament," she added. Irani's statement comes close on the heels of Congress general secretary east UP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's statement on Wednesday in Raebareli where she had said that her party had fielded some candidates in UP with an aim to cut into the BJP's vote share. "Congress will win on the seats where our candidates are strong. Where our candidates are slightly lightweight, they will cut into the BJP`s vote share," she had told media persons. Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav has also dismissed Priyanka`s statement as an "excuse" since the "people are not with them." "I cannot believe in these types of statements. I do not believe that the Congress has fielded weak candidates anywhere. No party does it. People are not with them. That is why they are making excuses," Yadav told ANI in an exclusive interview. In Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are up for grab, SP is contesting 37 seats, BSP 38, and their ally - RLD - three seats. They have not fielded candidates from Amethi and Raebareli from where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi are seeking their re-election. So far 39 Lok Sabha seats have gone to polls in the state, while remaining 41 will go to polls during the remaining three phases of the polling, the last phase of voting on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress is fighting a battle to lose: Smriti Irani

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist.

While hoardings of the mainstream parties are splashed across the city, about 45 lesser-known parties such as Anjaan Aadmi Party, Aapki Apni Party, Bhartiya Insan Party and Ambedkar National Congress are also in the list of parties vying for Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, raising issues as varied as Dalit empowerment and vegetarianism.

The similarities in some of the names are inescapable, and perhaps not just a coincidence.&nbsp;

But there is also the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch, which is focused on making sure that justice is for all, and has fielded three candidates.&nbsp;

These parties are aware they might not give the bigger political outfits any competition but their representatives said their mission is to ignite a spark and inform people there are other alternatives too.&nbsp;

Dilip Kumar, who runs a laptop repair centre in Nehru Place and is the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch candidate from South Delhi, said everyone should be assured of justice and no one should be above the law.&nbsp;

"The rape cases against (self-styled godmen) Asaram Bapu and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan were investigated thoroughly and they were put behind bars but there is no discussion about the sexual harassment case against the chief justice of India. Law should treat everyone equally," he said.&nbsp;

Kumar said he will also address local issues. The government, he added, has built toilets but there is no water.&nbsp;

"What is the point of building toilets when there is no water?" he asked.&nbsp; 
The Sanatan Sanskriti Manch is also contesting the New Delhi and Chandni Chowk seats.&nbsp;

Also from South Delhi is Navanit of the National Youth Party who believes everyone has the right to contest in a democratic set-up.&nbsp;

"Look at Arvind Kejriwal. He came from nowhere and brought the Congress down in Delhi. Everyone has a right to fight the elections in a democratic set-up and in today's time everyone wants their child to become doctor, an engineer but becoming a politician is a no-no," the independent journalist said.&nbsp;

Kumar claimed he was the one who investigated the Rafale fighter jet deal for the Congress and said the party has 3,000 workers and will be doing door-to-door campaigning.&nbsp;

The party is also contesting from the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

D Durga Prasad of the Challengers Party dreams big. He aspires to first become the chief minister of Delhi and then the prime minister and said he is contesting from two seats - Northeast Delhi and East Delhi.&nbsp;

Prasad, who contested the by-election from Amritsar in 2017, said he chose the Northeast Delhi as it has BJP's "prospective CM candidate Manoj Tiwari" and three-time former chief minister Sheila Dikshit of the Congress in the fray.&nbsp;

He stays in East Delhi and that is the reason he is contesting from the seat against BJP's Gautam Gambhir, Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely and AAP's Atishi.&nbsp;

"We want a complete transformation of Delhi and want to make it a full-fledged city, the national capital, metropolitan city and state which will control four states -- Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Cities which form the NCR (National Capital Region) should be merged into Delhi," Prasad said.&nbsp;

Then there is the Pyramid Party Of India, which is based out of Andhra Pradesh and will be making its electoral debut in Delhi by contesting on five seats - East Delhi, West Delhi, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi and South Delhi.&nbsp;

The party recently held a silent rally at Jantar Mantar to promote the concepts of meditation and vegetarianism.&nbsp;

"We have four goals -- telling people about the power of meditation, vegetarianism and enlightening people about self-knowledge and spiritual knowledge," the party's West Delhi candidate Kulwinder Singh Mehta said.&nbsp;

"We wanted to launch the party in north India and it was felt the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi would be the right platform," Mehta added.&nbsp;

Quizzed about his poll prospects, the real estate agent said he has been meditating for nine years and someone has to take a step to become the change.&nbsp;

Also in the mix is the National Road Map Party of India.

Shakeel Ahmed, national general secretary of the party, said elections are fought in the name of casteism and not development. But his party wants to change all that by ending vote bank politics and ensuring the empowerment of Dalits and economically weaker sections of society.&nbsp;

Lal Ji Singh, a candidate from the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party in New Delhi, said the rules of the Chief Electoral Office in Delhi for gaining permission for rallies and public meetings are quite stringent.&nbsp;

He said the online permission portal faces technical glitches and the manual permission takes 48 hours to come by.&nbsp;

The agenda, he said, is to fix problems faced by cart-sellers, decreasing Metro fares and providing free accommodation for students from outside Delhi.&nbsp;

Other parties in the fray include the Anjaan Aadmi Party, Mazdoor Kirayedar Vikas Party, Parivartan Samaj Party, Voters Party International, Sanjhi Virasat Party and Bhartiya Kisan Party.&nbsp;

Delhi votes on May 12 in the fifth round of the seven-phase polling. The votes will be counted on May 23.

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist.

The three biggies, BJP, Congress and AAP, might be occupying ad space and mind space as campaigning for Delhi's Lok Sabha elections gathers pace but a host of smaller parties have also put their hats in the poll ring -- not to win maybe but just to make people aware that alternatives can exist. While hoardings of the mainstream parties are splashed across the city, about 45 lesser-known parties such as Anjaan Aadmi Party, Aapki Apni Party, Bhartiya Insan Party and Ambedkar National Congress are also in the list of parties vying for Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, raising issues as varied as Dalit empowerment and vegetarianism. The similarities in some of the names are inescapable, and perhaps not just a coincidence. But there is also the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch, which is focused on making sure that justice is for all, and has fielded three candidates. These parties are aware they might not give the bigger political outfits any competition but their representatives said their mission is to ignite a spark and inform people there are other alternatives too. Dilip Kumar, who runs a laptop repair centre in Nehru Place and is the Sanatan Sanskriti Manch candidate from South Delhi, said everyone should be assured of justice and no one should be above the law. "The rape cases against (self-styled godmen) Asaram Bapu and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan were investigated thoroughly and they were put behind bars but there is no discussion about the sexual harassment case against the chief justice of India. Law should treat everyone equally," he said. Kumar said he will also address local issues. The government, he added, has built toilets but there is no water. "What is the point of building toilets when there is no water?" he asked. The Sanatan Sanskriti Manch is also contesting the New Delhi and Chandni Chowk seats. Also from South Delhi is Navanit of the National Youth Party who believes everyone has the right to contest in a democratic set-up. "Look at Arvind Kejriwal. He came from nowhere and brought the Congress down in Delhi. Everyone has a right to fight the elections in a democratic set-up and in today's time everyone wants their child to become doctor, an engineer but becoming a politician is a no-no," the independent journalist said. Kumar claimed he was the one who investigated the Rafale fighter jet deal for the Congress and said the party has 3,000 workers and will be doing door-to-door campaigning. The party is also contesting from the West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency. D Durga Prasad of the Challengers Party dreams big. He aspires to first become the chief minister of Delhi and then the prime minister and said he is contesting from two seats - Northeast Delhi and East Delhi. Prasad, who contested the by-election from Amritsar in 2017, said he chose the Northeast Delhi as it has BJP's "prospective CM candidate Manoj Tiwari" and three-time former chief minister Sheila Dikshit of the Congress in the fray. He stays in East Delhi and that is the reason he is contesting from the seat against BJP's Gautam Gambhir, Congress' Arvinder Singh Lovely and AAP's Atishi. "We want a complete transformation of Delhi and want to make it a full-fledged city, the national capital, metropolitan city and state which will control four states -- Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Cities which form the NCR (National Capital Region) should be merged into Delhi," Prasad said. Then there is the Pyramid Party Of India, which is based out of Andhra Pradesh and will be making its electoral debut in Delhi by contesting on five seats - East Delhi, West Delhi, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi and South Delhi. The party recently held a silent rally at Jantar Mantar to promote the concepts of meditation and vegetarianism. "We have four goals -- telling people about the power of meditation, vegetarianism and enlightening people about self-knowledge and spiritual knowledge," the party's West Delhi candidate Kulwinder Singh Mehta said. "We wanted to launch the party in north India and it was felt the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi would be the right platform," Mehta added. Quizzed about his poll prospects, the real estate agent said he has been meditating for nine years and someone has to take a step to become the change. Also in the mix is the National Road Map Party of India. Shakeel Ahmed, national general secretary of the party, said elections are fought in the name of casteism and not development. But his party wants to change all that by ending vote bank politics and ensuring the empowerment of Dalits and economically weaker sections of society. Lal Ji Singh, a candidate from the Akhand Rashtrawadi Party in New Delhi, said the rules of the Chief Electoral Office in Delhi for gaining permission for rallies and public meetings are quite stringent. He said the online permission portal faces technical glitches and the manual permission takes 48 hours to come by. The agenda, he said, is to fix problems faced by cart-sellers, decreasing Metro fares and providing free accommodation for students from outside Delhi. Other parties in the fray include the Anjaan Aadmi Party, Mazdoor Kirayedar Vikas Party, Parivartan Samaj Party, Voters Party International, Sanjhi Virasat Party and Bhartiya Kisan Party. Delhi votes on May 12 in the fifth round of the seven-phase polling. The votes will be counted on May 23.

Smaller parties in Delhi's election ring, not for victory but to make their points

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday issued a notice to Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu for his alleged personal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a public rally in Ahmedabad on April 17.

Acting on the complaint filed by BJP leader Neeraj, the ECI has sought the reply from the star campaigner of the Congress party not later than 6 pm on Thursday.

In a rally in Ahmedabad on April 17, the star campaigner of the Congress party had termed Modi as "the biggest liar" in the country.

"China is constructing railways under the sea and India is producing Chowkidar that too thieves under the garb of Chowkidar. I say you are a liar. This is the land of Mahatma Gandhi. It is unfortunate that you will be seen as the biggest liar prime minister," Sidhu had said.

"The video clips and transcript of the relevant portions of speeches made by Navjot Singh Sidhu on April 17 in Ahmedabad have been examined and the statements found to be in violation of the provisions contained in Para (2) of Part 1st of `General Conduct` of Model Code of Conduct," said the notice issued by the ECI.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday issued a notice to Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu for his alleged personal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a public rally in Ahmedabad on April 17.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday issued a notice to Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu for his alleged personal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a public rally in Ahmedabad on April 17. Acting on the complaint filed by BJP leader Neeraj, the ECI has sought the reply from the star campaigner of the Congress party not later than 6 pm on Thursday. In a rally in Ahmedabad on April 17, the star campaigner of the Congress party had termed Modi as "the biggest liar" in the country. "China is constructing railways under the sea and India is producing Chowkidar that too thieves under the garb of Chowkidar. I say you are a liar. This is the land of Mahatma Gandhi. It is unfortunate that you will be seen as the biggest liar prime minister," Sidhu had said. "The video clips and transcript of the relevant portions of speeches made by Navjot Singh Sidhu on April 17 in Ahmedabad have been examined and the statements found to be in violation of the provisions contained in Para (2) of Part 1st of `General Conduct` of Model Code of Conduct," said the notice issued by the ECI.

Election Commission issues notice to Sidhu for personal attack on PM Modi

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday issued a notice to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-counter-affidavit-in-supreme-court-rahul-gandhi-again-regrets-chowkidar-chor-hai-comment-214344">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a> over his citizenship after receiving a complaint from Rajya Sabha MP Dr Subramanian Swamy.

''Ministry has received a representation from MP Dr Subramanian Swamy in which it has been brought out that a Company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003 and that you were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company,'' the notice read.

Swamy has stated that the Congress president had declared his nationality as British in a UK-based company.

''It has been further brought out in the complaint that in the Company’s Annual Returns filed on October 10, 2005, and October 31, 2006, your date of birth has been given as June 19, 1970, and that you had declared your nationality as British. Further, in the Dissolution application dated 17/02/2009 of the above-referred company, your nationality has been mentioned as British,'' the notice said.

On April 20, BJP MP GVL Narasimha Rao had also raised a similar objection to Gandhi’s citizenship at a press conference here.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday issued a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his citizenship after receiving a complaint from Rajya Sabha MP Dr Subramanian Swamy.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday issued a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his citizenship after receiving a complaint from Rajya Sabha MP Dr Subramanian Swamy. ''Ministry has received a representation from MP Dr Subramanian Swamy in which it has been brought out that a Company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003 and that you were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company,'' the notice read. Swamy has stated that the Congress president had declared his nationality as British in a UK-based company. ''It has been further brought out in the complaint that in the Company’s Annual Returns filed on October 10, 2005, and October 31, 2006, your date of birth has been given as June 19, 1970, and that you had declared your nationality as British. Further, in the Dissolution application dated 17/02/2009 of the above-referred company, your nationality has been mentioned as British,'' the notice said. On April 20, BJP MP GVL Narasimha Rao had also raised a similar objection to Gandhi’s citizenship at a press conference here.

Ministry of Home Affairs issues notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi over citizenship row

US President Donald Trump, along with his family and businesses, on Monday sued Deutsche Bank and Capital One in an attempt to stop them from complying with Congressional subpoenas issued as part of a probe into foreign political influence.

The subpoenas -- which the Trumps described in their suit as "intrusive and overbroad" -- were issued to several banks by the Democratic-majority House's intelligence and financial services committees, which are looking into the president's finances as part of a larger probe into election meddling by Russia.

The lawsuit is the latest step in Trump's fightback against the Democrats, and alleges that the subpoenas have "no legitimate or lawful purpose."

"The subpoenas were issued to harass President Donald J. Trump, to rummage through every aspect of his personal finances, his businesses, and the private information of the President and his family, and to ferret about for any material that might be used to cause him political damage," said the suit, filed with the US federal court in the Southern District of New York.

"No grounds exist to establish any purpose other than a political one."

The suit accuses Congress of stepping beyond its law-making mandate into law enforcement, and says the subpoenas violate the financial privacy rights of Trump and his family.

Deutsche Bank was one of the few major Western financial institutions to continue to lend to Trump's real estate empire after several of its casinos went bankrupt in the 1990s, resulting in claims by creditors valued at $330 million in present-day dollars.

"We remain committed to providing appropriate information to all authorized investigations and will abide by a court order regarding such investigations," the German bank said in a statement.

But the Trumps want to block any such disclosures, and have requested in their latest lawsuit "a permanent injunction prohibiting Deutsche Bank and Capital One from disclosing, revealing, delivering, or producing the requested information, or otherwise complying with the subpoenas."

Their filing also argues that Congress is seeking information about "events that occurred while President Trump was a private citizen, years before he was even a candidate for public office."

Following the money

The suit comes weeks after the release of a heavily redacted version of the Mueller report, which concluded an almost two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.&nbsp;

The president described it as a "complete exoneration."

But Democrats believe the investigation has revealed serious wrongdoing by Trump and have not yet decided on whether they want to push for impeachment.

The Congressional subpoenas to the banks were announced days ahead of the release of the Mueller report, and House member Adam Schiff described the one sent to Deutsche Bank as "friendly."

Explaining why the banks were subpoenaed, Maxine Waters, chair of the House Financial Services Committee, said the body was investigating "the potential use of the US financial system for illicit purposes."

The committee, she added, "is exploring these matters, including as they may involve the president and his associates." 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, along with his family and businesses, on Monday sued Deutsche Bank and Capital One in an attempt to stop them from complying with Congressional subpoenas issued as part of a probe into foreign political influence.

US President Donald Trump, along with his family and businesses, on Monday sued Deutsche Bank and Capital One in an attempt to stop them from complying with Congressional subpoenas issued as part of a probe into foreign political influence. The subpoenas -- which the Trumps described in their suit as "intrusive and overbroad" -- were issued to several banks by the Democratic-majority House's intelligence and financial services committees, which are looking into the president's finances as part of a larger probe into election meddling by Russia. The lawsuit is the latest step in Trump's fightback against the Democrats, and alleges that the subpoenas have "no legitimate or lawful purpose." "The subpoenas were issued to harass President Donald J. Trump, to rummage through every aspect of his personal finances, his businesses, and the private information of the President and his family, and to ferret about for any material that might be used to cause him political damage," said the suit, filed with the US federal court in the Southern District of New York. "No grounds exist to establish any purpose other than a political one." The suit accuses Congress of stepping beyond its law-making mandate into law enforcement, and says the subpoenas violate the financial privacy rights of Trump and his family. Deutsche Bank was one of the few major Western financial institutions to continue to lend to Trump's real estate empire after several of its casinos went bankrupt in the 1990s, resulting in claims by creditors valued at $330 million in present-day dollars. "We remain committed to providing appropriate information to all authorized investigations and will abide by a court order regarding such investigations," the German bank said in a statement. But the Trumps want to block any such disclosures, and have requested in their latest lawsuit "a permanent injunction prohibiting Deutsche Bank and Capital One from disclosing, revealing, delivering, or producing the requested information, or otherwise complying with the subpoenas." Their filing also argues that Congress is seeking information about "events that occurred while President Trump was a private citizen, years before he was even a candidate for public office." Following the money The suit comes weeks after the release of a heavily redacted version of the Mueller report, which concluded an almost two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The president described it as a "complete exoneration." But Democrats believe the investigation has revealed serious wrongdoing by Trump and have not yet decided on whether they want to push for impeachment. The Congressional subpoenas to the banks were announced days ahead of the release of the Mueller report, and House member Adam Schiff described the one sent to Deutsche Bank as "friendly." Explaining why the banks were subpoenaed, Maxine Waters, chair of the House Financial Services Committee, said the body was investigating "the potential use of the US financial system for illicit purposes." The committee, she added, "is exploring these matters, including as they may involve the president and his associates."

Trump sues banks in bid to block Congress subpoenas

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/what-rubbish-entire-nation-knows-he-is-indian-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-on-rahuls-citizenship-row-214729">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> on Tuesday rubbished the claims that Congress president Rahul Gandhi contested from Wayanad as he was unsure of his fate from the Amethi Lok Sabha seat.

"It is not a sign of insecurity. Rahul went to Wayanad because our party cadres in Kerala asked him to. The people of Amethi have encouraged him to represent both south and the north," Priyanka told reporters.

Talking about her decision of not contesting from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat she said, "I did not pull out of Varanasi. I took the advice of all the senior leaders of the party and all my colleagues in Uttar Pradesh.

They firmly felt that I had the responsibility of looking after all the seats. Even today, they want me to campaign in their constituencies. I did what my party asked me to do."Amethi will go to polls on May 6 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will begin on May 23. &nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday rubbished the claims that Congress president Rahul Gandhi contested from Wayanad as he was unsure of his fate from the Amethi Lok Sabha seat.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday rubbished the claims that Congress president Rahul Gandhi contested from Wayanad as he was unsure of his fate from the Amethi Lok Sabha seat. "It is not a sign of insecurity. Rahul went to Wayanad because our party cadres in Kerala asked him to. The people of Amethi have encouraged him to represent both south and the north," Priyanka told reporters. Talking about her decision of not contesting from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat she said, "I did not pull out of Varanasi. I took the advice of all the senior leaders of the party and all my colleagues in Uttar Pradesh. They firmly felt that I had the responsibility of looking after all the seats. Even today, they want me to campaign in their constituencies. I did what my party asked me to do."Amethi will go to polls on May 6 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

Rahul Gandhi contested from Wayanad because people wanted him to: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

A Delhi court Tuesday allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-seeks-delhi-police-reply-on-shashi-tharoors-plea-to-travel-abroad-214562">Congress leader Shashi Tharoor</a>, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad.

Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20.

In his application, Tharoor had claimed that he has to attend certain press conferences there.

While granting him bail in the case, the court had directed not to leave the country without its prior permission.

The former Union minister has been charged under Sections 498-A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 of the IPC, but has not been arrested in the case.

Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel as the official bungalow of Tharoor was being renovated at that time.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Tuesday allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20.

A Delhi court Tuesday allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, an accused in a case related to wife Sunanda Pushkar's death, to travel abroad. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj granted permission to Tharoor to go to the USA from May 5-20. In his application, Tharoor had claimed that he has to attend certain press conferences there. While granting him bail in the case, the court had directed not to leave the country without its prior permission. The former Union minister has been charged under Sections 498-A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 of the IPC, but has not been arrested in the case. Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel as the official bungalow of Tharoor was being renovated at that time.

Delhi court allows Shashi Tharoor to travel abroad

Clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/madhya-pradesh-poll-candidate-alleges-attack-by-naxals-ec-launches-probe-214321">security forces at polling booths</a> in Asansol, West Bengal on Monday during the fourth phase of polling in the area.

BJP MP candidate from Asansol, Babul Supriyo's car was also vandalised outside the polling station.

Voters at a polling booth in Asansol had refused to vote in the absence of security forces, media reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-fourth-phase-polling-underway-in-nine-states-214251">Live Lok Sabha polls: 23.62% polling recorded till 12pm, highest in Bengal</a>

WION reporter Pooja Mehta said that Babul Supriyo had information that the BJP polling agent was allegedly kicked out of a polling booth.

As soon as&nbsp;Supriyo&nbsp;reached the booth, he got into a war of words first with the TMC polling agent and then TMC supporters in the village. While leaving the village, TMC cadres reportedly began sloganeering "go back Babul". Just a few minutes later, Babul and his car was attacked.

"I am very aware that wherever I try to reach are the places where TMC is going to try to create some tension," the BJP candidate said, adding, "I'll deal with it the way it should be dealt."

There has been&nbsp;no comment yet from the Election Commissioner(EC) over the incident. There are eight seats going to&nbsp;the polls in West Bengal during the fourth phase apart from&nbsp;Asansol which include&nbsp;Baharampur, Krishnagar, Ranaghat (SC), Burdwan East (SC), Burdwan-Durgapur,&nbsp;Bolpur (SC)&nbsp;and Birbhum.

The Election Commission had made elaborate security arrangments ahead of the fourth phase in West Bengal deploying 580 companies of central forces. EC sources had told PTI that "special emphasis"&nbsp;would be given to Asansol.

During the second phase of polling, violence had occurred in Raiganj Parliamentary constituency with BJP candidate Debasree Chaudhuri alleging that TMC workers tried to capture a polling booth in the constituency.

In Chopra, security personnel had lobbed tear gas shells and resorted to baton charge on locals as they blocked NH-34 highway in protest after unknown miscreants allegedly prevented them from casting their votes at Digirpar polling booth.

Chief minister Mamata Banerjee's ruling TMC in the state is locked in a four-way battle with the Congress, Left Front and a resurgent BJP. An electorate of 1,34,56,491 will decide the fate of 68 candidates in these eight constituencies.

Despite incidents of violence, West Bengal has recorded consistently high voter turnout with the state recording 81 per cent turnout in the first phase and similarly high figures in the subsequent phases.

Clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and security forces at polling booths in Asansol, West Bengal on Monday during the fourth phase of polling in the area.

Clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and security forces at polling booths in Asansol, West Bengal on Monday during the fourth phase of polling in the area. BJP MP candidate from Asansol, Babul Supriyo's car was also vandalised outside the polling station. Voters at a polling booth in Asansol had refused to vote in the absence of security forces, media reports said. Live Lok Sabha polls: 23.62% polling recorded till 12pm, highest in Bengal WION reporter Pooja Mehta said that Babul Supriyo had information that the BJP polling agent was allegedly kicked out of a polling booth. As soon as Supriyo reached the booth, he got into a war of words first with the TMC polling agent and then TMC supporters in the village. While leaving the village, TMC cadres reportedly began sloganeering "go back Babul". Just a few minutes later, Babul and his car was attacked. "I am very aware that wherever I try to reach are the places where TMC is going to try to create some tension," the BJP candidate said, adding, "I'll deal with it the way it should be dealt." There has been no comment yet from the Election Commissioner(EC) over the incident. There are eight seats going to the polls in West Bengal during the fourth phase apart from Asansol which include Baharampur, Krishnagar, Ranaghat (SC), Burdwan East (SC), Burdwan-Durgapur, Bolpur (SC) and Birbhum. The Election Commission had made elaborate security arrangments ahead of the fourth phase in West Bengal deploying 580 companies of central forces. EC sources had told PTI that "special emphasis" would be given to Asansol. During the second phase of polling, violence had occurred in Raiganj Parliamentary constituency with BJP candidate Debasree Chaudhuri alleging that TMC workers tried to capture a polling booth in the constituency. In Chopra, security personnel had lobbed tear gas shells and resorted to baton charge on locals as they blocked NH-34 highway in protest after unknown miscreants allegedly prevented them from casting their votes at Digirpar polling booth. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee's ruling TMC in the state is locked in a four-way battle with the Congress, Left Front and a resurgent BJP. An electorate of 1,34,56,491 will decide the fate of 68 candidates in these eight constituencies. Despite incidents of violence, West Bengal has recorded consistently high voter turnout with the state recording 81 per cent turnout in the first phase and similarly high figures in the subsequent phases.

Lok Sabha polls: Clashes erupt between TMC workers, security forces in Asansol; Babul Supriyo's car vandalised

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-may-not-get-even-50-seats-modi-213853">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday slammed the Congress party, questioning if the party and its leaders are capable of removing terrorism and Naxalism from the country.&nbsp;

While addressing a rally in Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister said that the Congress party has said that it will "reduce the presence of armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir. It wants to repeal sedition law too. Can people with such mentality remove terrorism and Naxalism?" he enquired.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Sitapur: Congress is saying that they will reduce presence of armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Congress wants to repeal sedition law too. Can people with such mentality remove terrorism and naxalism? <a href="https://t.co/SfDyMvzRe5">pic.twitter.com/SfDyMvzRe5</a>
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PM Modi also addressed a rally in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh wherein he slammed the Congress and blamed it for showing scant regard for Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar.&nbsp;

"They (opposition) want a government at the Centre which is 'majboor' (helpless) not 'majboot' (strong) as it used to do before 2014," he said.

The prime minister, earlier in the day, slammed the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh, saying the tie-up of "opportunists" wants a helpless government because.

PM Modi addressed election rallies in Kannauj, a Samajwadi Party stronghold, Hardoi and Sitapur, a day after filing his nomination from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat for a second term.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday slammed the Congress party, questioning if the party and its leaders are capable of removing terrorism and Naxalism from the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday slammed the Congress party, questioning if the party and its leaders are capable of removing terrorism and Naxalism from the country. While addressing a rally in Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister said that the Congress party has said that it will "reduce the presence of armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir. It wants to repeal sedition law too. Can people with such mentality remove terrorism and Naxalism?" he enquired. PM Modi in Sitapur: Congress is saying that they will reduce presence of armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Congress wants to repeal sedition law too. Can people with such mentality remove terrorism and naxalism? pic.twitter.com/SfDyMvzRe5 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 27, 2019 × PM Modi also addressed a rally in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh wherein he slammed the Congress and blamed it for showing scant regard for Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar. "They (opposition) want a government at the Centre which is 'majboor' (helpless) not 'majboot' (strong) as it used to do before 2014," he said. The prime minister, earlier in the day, slammed the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh, saying the tie-up of "opportunists" wants a helpless government because. PM Modi addressed election rallies in Kannauj, a Samajwadi Party stronghold, Hardoi and Sitapur, a day after filing his nomination from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat for a second term.

Is Congress capable of removing terrorism, Naxalism from country? PM Modi asks

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/poll-scam-money-used-for-naamdars-campaign-pm-modi-targets-rahul-gandhi-213678&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4kYrc0e_hAhWKinAKHV5kBvUQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00WwceawnX5XDEzIFNFi8z">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

"This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said.

"They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said.

"Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said.

"The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said.

Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities.

Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare.

"The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said.

Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended.

"It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said.

The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged.

"Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said.

The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network.

"During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes.

We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said.

Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added.

His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said.

Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack".

"I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. 
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together.

"Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share&nbsp;dais with him," Thackeray said.

Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra. "This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said. "They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said. "Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said. "The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said. Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities. Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare. "The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said. Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended. "It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said. The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged. "Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said. The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network. "During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes. We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said. Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added. His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said. Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack". "I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together. "Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share dais with him," Thackeray said. Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".

Congress may not get even 50 seats: PM Modi

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/rahul-gandhi&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiRqYGzrvDhAhXb8XMBHSXoD_YQFjABegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1tcIxcJijCnDNGDSOa-O0f">Congress president Rahul Gandhi </a>and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday.

The complainant, Satyavrat, has filed a case against both the leaders for the joint rally of the Mahagathbandhan held in Samastipur on Friday, where Gandhi was allegedly asking the crowd to raise slogans of '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Chowkidar Chor Hai</a>' to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

This was also the first rally in the ongoing campaigns for the Lok Sabha elections in which the two prominent leaders shared the stage.

While Section 124 (A) covers sedition, section 505 (1) deals with intent to incite one section of the public to commit offences against another section of the public or statements creating ill-will between the masses.

Polling in Bihar is being held in all seven phases of elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday.

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday. The complainant, Satyavrat, has filed a case against both the leaders for the joint rally of the Mahagathbandhan held in Samastipur on Friday, where Gandhi was allegedly asking the crowd to raise slogans of 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This was also the first rally in the ongoing campaigns for the Lok Sabha elections in which the two prominent leaders shared the stage. While Section 124 (A) covers sedition, section 505 (1) deals with intent to incite one section of the public to commit offences against another section of the public or statements creating ill-will between the masses. Polling in Bihar is being held in all seven phases of elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Case filed against Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi Yadav for asking crowd to raise 'chowkidar chor hai' slogan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-bjp-leader-shatrughan-sinha-joins-congress-208300">Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha</a> on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side.

Speaking to ANI, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-shatrughan-sinha-to-challenge-ravi-shankar-prasad-in-bihars-patna-sahib-208336">Sinha</a> said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar."

"Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed.

Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence.

"Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna.

Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event.

Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar." "Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed. Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence. "Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna. Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event. Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Shatrughan Sinha clarifies his statement on Jinnah, calls it 'slip of tongue'

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-by-2030-india-will-replace-one-of-the-top-3-superpowers-says-rajnath-singh-213156&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjw1sbAyerhAhWIro8KHX0jDV8QFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3bCmGfhf65yagMtWyAMViK">Rajnath Singh</a> Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF.

He hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for using "foul language" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Claiming the BJP would get a clear mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, Singh said he has no doubt in his mind that NDA allies will retain power with a three-fourths majority.

He said the Congress is politicising the Balakot air strikes and dismissed its demand of proof of casualties in the operation as "uncalled for".

The IAF had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

"Should our forces have stopped there to count the dead bodies? Brave jawans do not count the dead bodies, they keep marching ahead... Eagles count bodies," he said.

"Had there been 1, 2, 3 or 4 casualties, then we could have given a figure, but how can we tell (the exact casualties) when this figure was so high. I head the intelligence agencies. I would like to say we carried out the air strikes on the basis of credible and actionable inputs, and without violating Pakistan's sovereignty," the home minister said.

Singh said if the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was hailed for splitting Pakistan in 1971, then why can't Modi be lauded for the Balakot air strikes.

He addressed two election rallies in neighbouring Palghar district in support of Shiv Sena candidates from Thane and Palghar Lok Sabha constituencies.

Lashing out at the opposition for pointing fingers at electronic voting machines, he said, "The (voting) trend in the first phase of elections suggested the NDA would get a two-thirds majority. Soon the opposition launched an attack on EMVs.''

"When these people (Congress) won (assembly polls) in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh last year, then EVMs were right, but when they saw we are inching towards victory, they again started crying foul on EVMs", he said.

Singh strongly defended the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, saying it is based on their shared ideology of nationalism.

''No one can break the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in the state'', Singh asserted.

He said NCP chief Sharad Pawar had sensed his defeat in the Lok Sabha elections and hence decided to stay away from the poll fray.

Singh, contesting from the Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, lauded the government of Prime Minister Modi and said under his watch India saw a quantum jump in its economic ranking.

"We were languishing at the 9th position among the top 10 countries (before 2014). But since the Modi-led government took charge, our country witnessed a quantum jump and we secured the 6th position among the top 10 countries," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said.

"And I would like to say...In the coming years, we are going to attain the 5th position," Singh said.

The home minister said India is no more a country of the poor people and "we are now one of the fastest-growing economies in the world".

It is unfortunate that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "using foul" language against the prime minister of the country, Singh said.

''To say `chowkidar chor hai' (Rahul's jibe at the PM over the Rafale deal) is stooping too low. I was shocked when I first heard such a language for our prime minister'', he said.

"The Congress government did not buy a single next-generation fighter plane in the last 30 years. Had we got Rafale jets, we could have destroyed Pakistan-based (terror) camps while sitting in India," Singh said.

Instead of attacking the PM, the Congress should introspect why it is losing base, he said.

The BJP veteran said the Congress governments under Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi made "failed" efforts to eliminate poverty and Rahul Gandhi is now going on the same path (with his Nyay scheme).

He said the Congress-led UPA government built 25 lakh housing units from 2008 to 2014, while the BJP-headed NDA government constructed 1.30 crore houses between 2014-2018.

Nowhere in the world you will see the "karishma" (miracle) of 34 crore bank accounts being opened in such a short time (under Jan Dhan Yojana), he said, adding this could happen only due to Modi's leadership.

Singh said only five crore people are left in the extremely poor category and added "we will abolish this poverty in the coming five to seven years".

Thane and Palghar are among the 17 Lok Sabha seats that will vote in the fourth and final phase in Maharashtra on April 29

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF.

Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh Wednesday said the number of terrorists killed in the Balakot air strikes was "high", and accused the Congress of politicising the anti-terror operation by the IAF. He hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for using "foul language" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Claiming the BJP would get a clear mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, Singh said he has no doubt in his mind that NDA allies will retain power with a three-fourths majority. He said the Congress is politicising the Balakot air strikes and dismissed its demand of proof of casualties in the operation as "uncalled for". The IAF had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan on February 26 in response to the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. "Should our forces have stopped there to count the dead bodies? Brave jawans do not count the dead bodies, they keep marching ahead... Eagles count bodies," he said. "Had there been 1, 2, 3 or 4 casualties, then we could have given a figure, but how can we tell (the exact casualties) when this figure was so high. I head the intelligence agencies. I would like to say we carried out the air strikes on the basis of credible and actionable inputs, and without violating Pakistan's sovereignty," the home minister said. Singh said if the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was hailed for splitting Pakistan in 1971, then why can't Modi be lauded for the Balakot air strikes. He addressed two election rallies in neighbouring Palghar district in support of Shiv Sena candidates from Thane and Palghar Lok Sabha constituencies. Lashing out at the opposition for pointing fingers at electronic voting machines, he said, "The (voting) trend in the first phase of elections suggested the NDA would get a two-thirds majority. Soon the opposition launched an attack on EMVs.'' "When these people (Congress) won (assembly polls) in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh last year, then EVMs were right, but when they saw we are inching towards victory, they again started crying foul on EVMs", he said. Singh strongly defended the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, saying it is based on their shared ideology of nationalism. ''No one can break the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in the state'', Singh asserted. He said NCP chief Sharad Pawar had sensed his defeat in the Lok Sabha elections and hence decided to stay away from the poll fray. Singh, contesting from the Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, lauded the government of Prime Minister Modi and said under his watch India saw a quantum jump in its economic ranking. "We were languishing at the 9th position among the top 10 countries (before 2014). But since the Modi-led government took charge, our country witnessed a quantum jump and we secured the 6th position among the top 10 countries," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said. "And I would like to say...In the coming years, we are going to attain the 5th position," Singh said. The home minister said India is no more a country of the poor people and "we are now one of the fastest-growing economies in the world". It is unfortunate that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "using foul" language against the prime minister of the country, Singh said. ''To say `chowkidar chor hai' (Rahul's jibe at the PM over the Rafale deal) is stooping too low. I was shocked when I first heard such a language for our prime minister'', he said. "The Congress government did not buy a single next-generation fighter plane in the last 30 years. Had we got Rafale jets, we could have destroyed Pakistan-based (terror) camps while sitting in India," Singh said. Instead of attacking the PM, the Congress should introspect why it is losing base, he said. The BJP veteran said the Congress governments under Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi made "failed" efforts to eliminate poverty and Rahul Gandhi is now going on the same path (with his Nyay scheme). He said the Congress-led UPA government built 25 lakh housing units from 2008 to 2014, while the BJP-headed NDA government constructed 1.30 crore houses between 2014-2018. Nowhere in the world you will see the "karishma" (miracle) of 34 crore bank accounts being opened in such a short time (under Jan Dhan Yojana), he said, adding this could happen only due to Modi's leadership. Singh said only five crore people are left in the extremely poor category and added "we will abolish this poverty in the coming five to seven years". Thane and Palghar are among the 17 Lok Sabha seats that will vote in the fourth and final phase in Maharashtra on April 29

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Rajnath Singh slams Congress over Balakot air strikes, 'chowkidar' jibe

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Quick guide to third phase of elections due on April 23

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-opposed-to-aides-testifying-to-congress-on-mueller-report-213118">President Donald Trump </a>on Wednesday vowed to fight any effort by congressional Democrats to impeach him after Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s Russia inquiry, promising to take the matter to the Supreme Court even though the US&nbsp;Constitution gives Congress complete authority over the impeachment process.&nbsp;

"If the partisan Dems ever tried to Impeach, I would first head to the US Supreme Court," the Republican president, who is seeking re-election next year, wrote on Twitter, without offering details about what legal action he envisioned.&nbsp;

Democrats, who control the House, remain divided over whether to proceed with the impeachment process even as new fights flare in their intensifying investigations into Trump and his administration. A fierce legal battle is taking shape over Trump`s bid to fight House subpoenas for documents and testimony from his administration that potentially could head to the Supreme Court.

The Constitution gives the sole power of impeachment and removing a president from office to the House of Representatives and the Senate, not the judiciary, as part of the founding document`s separation of powers among the three branches of the federal government.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders have remained cautious over launching impeachment proceedings against Trump ahead of the 2020 election, although they have left the door open to such action. Others in the party`s more liberal wing have demanded impeachment proceedings.&nbsp;

Mueller`s findings, released in a redacted report last week, detailed about a dozen episodes of potential obstruction of justice by Trump in trying to impede the inquiry but stopped short of concluding that he had committed a crime.&nbsp;

The report said Congress could address whether the president violated the law. Mueller separately found insufficient evidence that Trump`s campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Russia in the 2016 presidential race.

Under the Constitution, Congress is a co-equal branch of government alongside the executive branch and the judiciary.&nbsp;

The Constitution empowers Congress to remove a president from office for "treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanors." The House is given the power to impeach a president - bring formal charges - and the Senate then convenes a trial, with the senators as jurors, with a two-thirds vote needed to convict a president and remove him from office.&nbsp;

The Constitution gives no role to the Supreme Court in impeachment, though it does assign the chief justice the task of presiding over the Senate trial. Conservative John Roberts currently serves as chief justice.

That would not preclude Trump from proceeding with litigation to tie up the issue in the courts, despite Supreme Court precedent upholding congressional impeachment power. In 1993, the nation`s top court ruled 9-0 in a case involving an impeached US judge that the judiciary has no role in the impeachment process.

Some congressional Republicans have urged that the country to move forward after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-mueller-report-everything-you-need-to-know-about-it-211667">Mueller report</a>, while a few, including Senator Mitt Romney, have condemned Trump`s actions. Some conservatives outside of Congress have urged congressional action in the wake of Mueller`s report.&nbsp;

"We believe the framers of the Constitution would have viewed the totality of this conduct as evidence of high crimes and misdemeanors," Checks &amp; Balances, a group of conservative lawyers, said in a statement on Tuesday that backed more investigations.

Trump has said Mueller`s findings cleared him of any wrongdoing. "We waited for Mueller and WON, so now the Dems look to Congress as last hope!" he tweeted on Wednesday.&nbsp;

House Democrats have stepped up their oversight of the Trump administration on numerous fronts since taking control of the chamber in January, from Trump`s tax returns and White House security clearances to the investigation into Russian interference in US&nbsp;politics.

Trump has ramped up his fight against congressional oversight, ordering officials not to comply with subpoenas and filing a lawsuit to prevent material from being turned over to lawmakers.&nbsp;

"There is no reason to go any further, and especially in Congress where it`s very partisan - obviously very partisan," Trump told the Washington Post in an interview on Tuesday.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump on Wednesday vowed to fight any effort by congressional Democrats to impeach him after Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s Russia inquiry, promising to take the matter to the Supreme Court even though the US Constitution gives Congress complete authority over the impeachment process.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday vowed to fight any effort by congressional Democrats to impeach him after Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s Russia inquiry, promising to take the matter to the Supreme Court even though the US Constitution gives Congress complete authority over the impeachment process. "If the partisan Dems ever tried to Impeach, I would first head to the US Supreme Court," the Republican president, who is seeking re-election next year, wrote on Twitter, without offering details about what legal action he envisioned. Democrats, who control the House, remain divided over whether to proceed with the impeachment process even as new fights flare in their intensifying investigations into Trump and his administration. A fierce legal battle is taking shape over Trump`s bid to fight House subpoenas for documents and testimony from his administration that potentially could head to the Supreme Court. The Constitution gives the sole power of impeachment and removing a president from office to the House of Representatives and the Senate, not the judiciary, as part of the founding document`s separation of powers among the three branches of the federal government. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders have remained cautious over launching impeachment proceedings against Trump ahead of the 2020 election, although they have left the door open to such action. Others in the party`s more liberal wing have demanded impeachment proceedings. Mueller`s findings, released in a redacted report last week, detailed about a dozen episodes of potential obstruction of justice by Trump in trying to impede the inquiry but stopped short of concluding that he had committed a crime. The report said Congress could address whether the president violated the law. Mueller separately found insufficient evidence that Trump`s campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Russia in the 2016 presidential race. Under the Constitution, Congress is a co-equal branch of government alongside the executive branch and the judiciary. The Constitution empowers Congress to remove a president from office for "treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanors." The House is given the power to impeach a president - bring formal charges - and the Senate then convenes a trial, with the senators as jurors, with a two-thirds vote needed to convict a president and remove him from office. The Constitution gives no role to the Supreme Court in impeachment, though it does assign the chief justice the task of presiding over the Senate trial. Conservative John Roberts currently serves as chief justice. That would not preclude Trump from proceeding with litigation to tie up the issue in the courts, despite Supreme Court precedent upholding congressional impeachment power. In 1993, the nation`s top court ruled 9-0 in a case involving an impeached US judge that the judiciary has no role in the impeachment process. Some congressional Republicans have urged that the country to move forward after the Mueller report, while a few, including Senator Mitt Romney, have condemned Trump`s actions. Some conservatives outside of Congress have urged congressional action in the wake of Mueller`s report. "We believe the framers of the Constitution would have viewed the totality of this conduct as evidence of high crimes and misdemeanors," Checks & Balances, a group of conservative lawyers, said in a statement on Tuesday that backed more investigations. Trump has said Mueller`s findings cleared him of any wrongdoing. "We waited for Mueller and WON, so now the Dems look to Congress as last hope!" he tweeted on Wednesday. House Democrats have stepped up their oversight of the Trump administration on numerous fronts since taking control of the chamber in January, from Trump`s tax returns and White House security clearances to the investigation into Russian interference in US politics. Trump has ramped up his fight against congressional oversight, ordering officials not to comply with subpoenas and filing a lawsuit to prevent material from being turned over to lawmakers. "There is no reason to go any further, and especially in Congress where it`s very partisan - obviously very partisan," Trump told the Washington Post in an interview on Tuesday.

Defying Congress, Trump vows Supreme Court fight over any impeachment

It is a three-cornered contest in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ls-polls-north-malda-to-witness-tough-fight-between-first-cousins-212079&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwif8MLJ--XhAhUB3Y8KHWssCDUQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rmpqaLc_D9xwIrmHEw0Eu">Malda</a>, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-phase-3-voting-on-april-23-212719&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwif8MLJ--XhAhUB3Y8KHWssCDUQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-4PH-ZrdqOxgXwH_bzoRj">the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections</a>, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat.

 
Muslims form a major chunk of the electorate in both the Maldaha North and the Maldaha South seats, which have stayed with the Congress for almost 40 years, and there is a distinct buzz about the need for a change this time.

 
And that buzz has created a space, which the BJP and the TMC are vying for.

 
While the Congress has pitted Isha Khan Choudhury against sitting Congress MP and now TMC nominee Mausam Noor, Ghani Khan's nephew and niece respectively&nbsp;from Maldaha North, the BJP has fielded former CPI(M) leader Khagen Murmu in the seat.

 
In Maldaha South, sitting Congress MP Abu Hasem Khan, Ghani Khan's brother, is contesting against Moazzem Hossain of the TMC and Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury of the BJP.

 
"How long can we vote for these people who are still using the name of their dead dada (brother), mama (maternal uncle) for votes," Bhaskar Ghosh (22) asked, referring to the family of Ghani Khan Choudhury, the late eight-time MP who won consecutively between 1980 and 2004, followed by his family members in both the constituencies separated by the delimitation in 2009.

 
For Ghosh, a student who works at a computer repair shop in Kaliachak, the TMC might benefit from the "waning magic of Ghani Khan" in the Maldaha South Lok Sabha seat, where riots had broken out in January 2016 over purported derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad.

 
However, he agrees with other locals that the riots opened the doors for the BJP to emerge as a key player in the area, leading to the saffron party's surprising win in the assembly seat of Baishnabnagar, which has a Muslim population of around 52 per cent.

"Dalubabu (Abu Hasem Khan, the sitting MP from Maldaha Dakshin) is a spent force here. He comes here only when there is election and forgets about us. All he does when he comes here is talk of Ghani Khan. We don't want to know what they have done for us in the past. We want to know what they can do now," Ghosh added.

 
"No Hindu vote is going to Dalubabu this time. However, we are the minority here, so he could still win," Ranjan Haldar (29), who runs a business in the area, said.

 
BJP national secretary and Bengal in-charge Kailash Vijayvarghi, who was in Malda to campaign for Murmu, indicated that the party had made major inroads and was a serious threat to the Congress this time.

 
"There is now a fervour for the BJP. Our workers have worked tirelessly. The buzz around the party is more than it was in 2014. This politics of appeasement (by ruling TMC in the state) had to end," Vijayvarghi told PTI.

 
"The Congress had tried to isolate Muslims from Narendra Modi. But we truly believe in Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. We are addressing the people's basic issues, be it Hindus or Muslims. It is a myth that Muslims are anti-Modi," he added.

 
Murmu, once a grassroots CPI(M) leader, said that he is confident of retaining his votes from 2014 when he ended second to Noor in Maldaha North. However, as a BJP candidate this time, he is unlikely to bag the Muslim votes.

 
"What the BJP has done is to ensure that there is polarisation. While some Hindus may vote for the BJP, it is difficult to say if Ghani Khan loyalists will move en masse.

What we are sure of is that we are not voting for them. The problem is that the votes in our community also might split between the Congress and the TMC, and herein lies the problem," Md Emazuddin (45), a businessman from Ratua, which falls under Maldaha North, said.

 
Days after the Pulwama terror attack and the resultant air strikes, Malda saw a flurry of activities from BJP workers, recalled locals.

 
"They organised bike rallies, displayed photos of the dead soldiers and the Muslim community organised marches to condemn the attack. It was tense, the city was tethering between jubilance and anxiety," Ajwarul, a small business owner in Ratua, said.

 
However, just 40 km away in Gazole, people feel Mamata Banerjee is the answer to the city's communally tense atmosphere.

The TMC will clinch the Malda North seat, with both the Muslims and Hindus voting in its favour, they opined.

"Most of the roads that you see here are because of her. She has ensured our children go to school and free uniform and books are provided to them. No one else has done such much for us," Abdul Qayum, a labourer in Gazole, said.

 
Both communities in the constituency praised Mamata Banerjee for her Kanyashree scheme and the pension scheme for the aged.

The TMC-led government's scheme promoting education is also a big hit with both communities, most of whom survive on small businesses or work as labourers.

Most people here said they were hit hard by demonetisation and the GST, and are open to change.

 
Meanwhile, Congress' Isha Khan Choudhury, blamed the chief minister for creating space for the saffron party in the area. 
"Mamata has played into the hands of the BJP. Her politics has created a vacuum in which the BJP sees hope. However, we are not worried. If there are free and fair elections, we will win," Choudhury said.

The Congress has virtually been given a walkover by the Left in both these seats, with CPI(M) voters openly pledging support to Congress candidates. 
But for TMC's Noor, the fight in Malda is Didi vs Modi.

"The TMC has emerged as the only secular force which can fight the polarisation of the BJP," Noor, through whom the TMC is trying to woo Congress voters, said. 
However, her tag as a "betrayer", by both her party and her family, is a sore issue with many TMC supporters.

 
As voting was underway Tuesday, the two seats in Malda could be anyone's game.

It is a three-cornered contest in Malda, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat.

It is a three-cornered contest in Malda, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat. Muslims form a major chunk of the electorate in both the Maldaha North and the Maldaha South seats, which have stayed with the Congress for almost 40 years, and there is a distinct buzz about the need for a change this time. And that buzz has created a space, which the BJP and the TMC are vying for. While the Congress has pitted Isha Khan Choudhury against sitting Congress MP and now TMC nominee Mausam Noor, Ghani Khan's nephew and niece respectively from Maldaha North, the BJP has fielded former CPI(M) leader Khagen Murmu in the seat. In Maldaha South, sitting Congress MP Abu Hasem Khan, Ghani Khan's brother, is contesting against Moazzem Hossain of the TMC and Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury of the BJP. "How long can we vote for these people who are still using the name of their dead dada (brother), mama (maternal uncle) for votes," Bhaskar Ghosh (22) asked, referring to the family of Ghani Khan Choudhury, the late eight-time MP who won consecutively between 1980 and 2004, followed by his family members in both the constituencies separated by the delimitation in 2009. For Ghosh, a student who works at a computer repair shop in Kaliachak, the TMC might benefit from the "waning magic of Ghani Khan" in the Maldaha South Lok Sabha seat, where riots had broken out in January 2016 over purported derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad. However, he agrees with other locals that the riots opened the doors for the BJP to emerge as a key player in the area, leading to the saffron party's surprising win in the assembly seat of Baishnabnagar, which has a Muslim population of around 52 per cent. "Dalubabu (Abu Hasem Khan, the sitting MP from Maldaha Dakshin) is a spent force here. He comes here only when there is election and forgets about us. All he does when he comes here is talk of Ghani Khan. We don't want to know what they have done for us in the past. We want to know what they can do now," Ghosh added. "No Hindu vote is going to Dalubabu this time. However, we are the minority here, so he could still win," Ranjan Haldar (29), who runs a business in the area, said. BJP national secretary and Bengal in-charge Kailash Vijayvarghi, who was in Malda to campaign for Murmu, indicated that the party had made major inroads and was a serious threat to the Congress this time. "There is now a fervour for the BJP. Our workers have worked tirelessly. The buzz around the party is more than it was in 2014. This politics of appeasement (by ruling TMC in the state) had to end," Vijayvarghi told PTI. "The Congress had tried to isolate Muslims from Narendra Modi. But we truly believe in Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. We are addressing the people's basic issues, be it Hindus or Muslims. It is a myth that Muslims are anti-Modi," he added. Murmu, once a grassroots CPI(M) leader, said that he is confident of retaining his votes from 2014 when he ended second to Noor in Maldaha North. However, as a BJP candidate this time, he is unlikely to bag the Muslim votes. "What the BJP has done is to ensure that there is polarisation. While some Hindus may vote for the BJP, it is difficult to say if Ghani Khan loyalists will move en masse. What we are sure of is that we are not voting for them. The problem is that the votes in our community also might split between the Congress and the TMC, and herein lies the problem," Md Emazuddin (45), a businessman from Ratua, which falls under Maldaha North, said. Days after the Pulwama terror attack and the resultant air strikes, Malda saw a flurry of activities from BJP workers, recalled locals. "They organised bike rallies, displayed photos of the dead soldiers and the Muslim community organised marches to condemn the attack. It was tense, the city was tethering between jubilance and anxiety," Ajwarul, a small business owner in Ratua, said. However, just 40 km away in Gazole, people feel Mamata Banerjee is the answer to the city's communally tense atmosphere. The TMC will clinch the Malda North seat, with both the Muslims and Hindus voting in its favour, they opined. "Most of the roads that you see here are because of her. She has ensured our children go to school and free uniform and books are provided to them. No one else has done such much for us," Abdul Qayum, a labourer in Gazole, said. Both communities in the constituency praised Mamata Banerjee for her Kanyashree scheme and the pension scheme for the aged. The TMC-led government's scheme promoting education is also a big hit with both communities, most of whom survive on small businesses or work as labourers. Most people here said they were hit hard by demonetisation and the GST, and are open to change. Meanwhile, Congress' Isha Khan Choudhury, blamed the chief minister for creating space for the saffron party in the area. "Mamata has played into the hands of the BJP. Her politics has created a vacuum in which the BJP sees hope. However, we are not worried. If there are free and fair elections, we will win," Choudhury said. The Congress has virtually been given a walkover by the Left in both these seats, with CPI(M) voters openly pledging support to Congress candidates. But for TMC's Noor, the fight in Malda is Didi vs Modi. "The TMC has emerged as the only secular force which can fight the polarisation of the BJP," Noor, through whom the TMC is trying to woo Congress voters, said. However, her tag as a "betrayer", by both her party and her family, is a sore issue with many TMC supporters. As voting was underway Tuesday, the two seats in Malda could be anyone's game.

As BJP, TMC dive deep, Congress bastion Malda sees battle for Muslim votes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asserted that the Congress and opposition parties are spending sleepless nights as the 'lahar' (wave) for the BJP has become a 'lalkar' (challenge) for them after the first two phases of elections.

Addressing a rally here, Modi urged the people of Odisha to press the lotus symbol button with both hands, one for the Lok Sabha elections and the other for Assembly polls.

"Lahar nehin ye lalkar hai, Phir ek bar Modi sarkar hai'' (this is not a wave but a challenge, once again Modi government will be formed).

I haven't received so much adulation and love even in 2014," he said, claiming that the response in the first two phases of polls indicate that people are favouring BJP over other parties.

Emphasising that not a single charge of corruption has surfaced against the BJP-led government in the past five years, Modi said those who have been levelling false allegations have found themselves in the dock.

"Voters are now teaching those liars a lesson. The Congress and other opposition parties are now in a state of shock. They are trying to find new excuses to target and abuse me," the prime minister said.

He appealed to the people to vote for a BJP government in the state, which can work in tandem with the Centre.

"The Patnaik-led BJD is only bothered about grabbing power, development has never figured its list of priorities. "The people of Odisha will bid the BJD government farewell, they are wiser than the politicians who have been ruling the state. Naveen babu, it's time for you to go," Modi added.

Voting is underway in six parliamentary constituencies and 42 assembly seats in Odisha.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asserted that the Congress and opposition parties are spending sleepless nights as the 'lahar' (wave) for the BJP has become a 'lalkar' (challenge) for them after the first two phases of elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asserted that the Congress and opposition parties are spending sleepless nights as the 'lahar' (wave) for the BJP has become a 'lalkar' (challenge) for them after the first two phases of elections. Addressing a rally here, Modi urged the people of Odisha to press the lotus symbol button with both hands, one for the Lok Sabha elections and the other for Assembly polls. "Lahar nehin ye lalkar hai, Phir ek bar Modi sarkar hai'' (this is not a wave but a challenge, once again Modi government will be formed). I haven't received so much adulation and love even in 2014," he said, claiming that the response in the first two phases of polls indicate that people are favouring BJP over other parties. Emphasising that not a single charge of corruption has surfaced against the BJP-led government in the past five years, Modi said those who have been levelling false allegations have found themselves in the dock. "Voters are now teaching those liars a lesson. The Congress and other opposition parties are now in a state of shock. They are trying to find new excuses to target and abuse me," the prime minister said. He appealed to the people to vote for a BJP government in the state, which can work in tandem with the Centre. "The Patnaik-led BJD is only bothered about grabbing power, development has never figured its list of priorities. "The people of Odisha will bid the BJD government farewell, they are wiser than the politicians who have been ruling the state. Naveen babu, it's time for you to go," Modi added. Voting is underway in six parliamentary constituencies and 42 assembly seats in Odisha.

Wave in favour of BJP giving sleepless nights to opposition: PM Modi

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

Sitharaman said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Congress chief</a>'s "credibility has taken a beating".

"People in public life generously go on saying untruth and to repeat it is a matter of grief," she said.&nbsp;

"I feel sorry that the president of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood," she added.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi.

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Nirmala Sitharaman on Rahul Gandhi's reply in SC: His credibility has taken a beating. People in public life to generously go on saying untruth &amp; to repeat it is a matter of grief. I feel sorry that President of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> <a href="https://t.co/WAnuG5sX3b">pic.twitter.com/WAnuG5sX3b</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1120249653654511617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents.

"At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings, unfortunately, got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply.

The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his reply in the Supreme Court regretting the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Sitharaman said that the Congress chief's "credibility has taken a beating". "People in public life generously go on saying untruth and to repeat it is a matter of grief," she said. "I feel sorry that the president of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood," she added. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he regrets the remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Rafale deal. Gandhi made the submission in a response to a Supreme Court notice on a petition filed by BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi. Nirmala Sitharaman on Rahul Gandhi's reply in SC: His credibility has taken a beating. People in public life to generously go on saying untruth & to repeat it is a matter of grief. I feel sorry that President of a national party like Congress depends only on falsehood. #Rafale pic.twitter.com/WAnuG5sX3b — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2019 × In his affidavit, the Congress president said the remark that the Supreme Court has agreed that PM Modi indulged in corruption in Rafale deal was "incorrectly attributed" to the court. Gandhi further said in the affidavit that he had made the statements in the heat of political campaigning which have been misused by his opponents. "At the outset, there was not the slightest intention to insinuate anything regarding the Supreme Court proceedings in any manner. On April 10, the issues relating to court proceedings, unfortunately, got juxtaposed and mingled with a political slogan being used extensively," the Congress president said in his reply. The court, in a notice last week, had asked Gandhi to explain his alleged contemptuous remarks on recent the April 10 Rafale verdict. The court had asked the Congress president to reply to the notice by April 22.

I feel sorry that president of national party like Congress depends only on falsehood: Sitharaman slams Rahul

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party.

Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism. There is no religion or caste of terrorism. Their new theory weakened India's stand against terrorism."

He said repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was another such case which undermined India's stand.

"In 2004, India had an agreement with Pakistan in which its former army chief had assured that the country will not provide shelter and allow terrorism to flourish on its soil, but Congress tried weakening India's stand, saying Pakistan was also a victim of terrorism," he said.

The home minister said the opposition was doing politics over issues which should not be politicised.&nbsp;

Instead of praising the defence forces after the airstrike in Balakot of Pakistan, the opposition parties questioned it with queries on the number of terrorists killed, he said.

"When such types of questions are asked, it weakens India's stand against terrorism," he said.

Speaking on the Congress' election manifesto promising to scrap the sedition law, Singh said the law should be further strengthened but it should not be misused.

Talking about Articles 370 and 35A for Jammu and Kashmir, he said it was a temporary arrangement and it was time to review it.

"How much the entitlement benefitted Jammu and Kashmir? When a few people are raising questions there should be two prime ministers in the country then what is the significance of Article 370 and 35A," Singh asked.

He exuded confidence that the first two phases of Lok Sabha elections reflected a wave in favour of the BJP, and there was no doubt the party will get a clear majority and possibly the NDA will achieve 3/4th majority.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India's stand against terrorism has been weakened on several occasions by the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "They (Congress) have given a new theory of Hindu terrorism. There is no religion or caste of terrorism. Their new theory weakened India's stand against terrorism." He said repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was another such case which undermined India's stand. "In 2004, India had an agreement with Pakistan in which its former army chief had assured that the country will not provide shelter and allow terrorism to flourish on its soil, but Congress tried weakening India's stand, saying Pakistan was also a victim of terrorism," he said. The home minister said the opposition was doing politics over issues which should not be politicised. Instead of praising the defence forces after the airstrike in Balakot of Pakistan, the opposition parties questioned it with queries on the number of terrorists killed, he said. "When such types of questions are asked, it weakens India's stand against terrorism," he said. Speaking on the Congress' election manifesto promising to scrap the sedition law, Singh said the law should be further strengthened but it should not be misused. Talking about Articles 370 and 35A for Jammu and Kashmir, he said it was a temporary arrangement and it was time to review it. "How much the entitlement benefitted Jammu and Kashmir? When a few people are raising questions there should be two prime ministers in the country then what is the significance of Article 370 and 35A," Singh asked. He exuded confidence that the first two phases of Lok Sabha elections reflected a wave in favour of the BJP, and there was no doubt the party will get a clear majority and possibly the NDA will achieve 3/4th majority.

Congress has weakened India's stand on terrorism on several occasions: Rajnath Singh

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana.

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates</a> for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.&nbsp;

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Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad <a href="https://t.co/wUVX34NKXu">pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1119995648101605376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi.

Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat.

The Congress party on Sunday released a list of five candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana. Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Sonipat. Nirmal Singh is being fielded from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana from Faridabad, in place of Lalit Nagar. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. Congress releases list of 5 candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Haryana; Bhupinder Singh Hooda to contest from Sonipat, Nirmal Singh from Kurukshetra, Bhavya Bishnoi from Hisar, Kuldeep Sharma from Karnal and Avtar Singh Bhadana (in place of Lalit Nagar) from Faridabad pic.twitter.com/wUVX34NKXu — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2019 × Four names were announced for Delhi and one candidate each for Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi. Delhi's seven Lok Sabha constituencies include Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi and West Delhi. Hardeep Singh Puri, current Union Minister of State, has been fielded to contest from Punjab's Amritsar. In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP has fielded Shankar Lalwani as its candidate from Indore in place of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. In Uttar Pradesh, Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar has been fielded from Ghosi.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress releases list of candidates for Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Hooda to fight from Sonipat

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/polls-in-tripura-east-deferrd-to-april-23-211398">Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency</a>, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23.

In a letter to the Election Commission on Friday, the BJP stated that a "false picture is being portrayed by the Congress and CPI-M with a view to mislead the Commission by attributing false allegations against the BJP."

The party said that no complaints were lodged with the police or the EC after elections were held in one of the two Tripura parliamentary constituencies in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls.

"The CEO on April 11 made a public statement that our general reports from all the observers are that it has been free and fair broadly," the letter stated.

The BJP apprised the EC that 82.97 per cent of polling was recorded during the first phase of ongoing general elections when West Tripura constituency went to polls on April 11, thereby showing the highest level of enthusiasm among the voters of the state who voted without fear or intimidation, and central forces were adequately deployed.

Accusing the Congress and CPI-M of levelling such allegations, the party said, "Despite these attempts by opposition parties such as CPI-M and Congress to flare communal tensions, they have been unsuccessful. The ruling BJP government has successfully ensured a harmonious co-existence between all groups and communities."

"Therefore, these allegations of a breakdown of law and order against the BJP do not add up and do not fall in sync with the positive track record in governance and administration of the present dispensation," the letter further stated.

The party asserted that very few incidents of violence occurred and in no case, there was any loss of life.

"The BJP stands by its duty to serve the people of Tripura and is committed to ensuring a safe environment for the conduct of free and fair elections. We reiterate our stand that there is no prevailing law and order situation which will harm the conduct of free and fair polls in Tripura," the BJP said.

It further urged the EC to not be misled by a "campaign of lies and misinformation" run at the behest of CPI-M and Congress.

Polling was deferred in Tripura East Lok Sabha after the EC said "law and order prevailing in the constituency is not conducive to the holding of free and fair polls."

CPI-M Secretary General Sitaram Yechury on Friday had urged the election body to conduct re-polling at 464 booths in Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling took place on April 11.

"It is now established that there were large-scale irregularities. We hope EC will ensure that faith in our democracy is reaffirmed. The re-poll in 464 booths must be done as all voters should be able to exercise their franchise independently, exactly as it should be," Yechury had tweeted.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dismissed the opposition`s claim that law and order situation was not conducive for holding polls in Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling was deferred from April 18 to April 23. In a letter to the Election Commission on Friday, the BJP stated that a "false picture is being portrayed by the Congress and CPI-M with a view to mislead the Commission by attributing false allegations against the BJP." The party said that no complaints were lodged with the police or the EC after elections were held in one of the two Tripura parliamentary constituencies in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls. "The CEO on April 11 made a public statement that our general reports from all the observers are that it has been free and fair broadly," the letter stated. The BJP apprised the EC that 82.97 per cent of polling was recorded during the first phase of ongoing general elections when West Tripura constituency went to polls on April 11, thereby showing the highest level of enthusiasm among the voters of the state who voted without fear or intimidation, and central forces were adequately deployed. Accusing the Congress and CPI-M of levelling such allegations, the party said, "Despite these attempts by opposition parties such as CPI-M and Congress to flare communal tensions, they have been unsuccessful. The ruling BJP government has successfully ensured a harmonious co-existence between all groups and communities." "Therefore, these allegations of a breakdown of law and order against the BJP do not add up and do not fall in sync with the positive track record in governance and administration of the present dispensation," the letter further stated. The party asserted that very few incidents of violence occurred and in no case, there was any loss of life. "The BJP stands by its duty to serve the people of Tripura and is committed to ensuring a safe environment for the conduct of free and fair elections. We reiterate our stand that there is no prevailing law and order situation which will harm the conduct of free and fair polls in Tripura," the BJP said. It further urged the EC to not be misled by a "campaign of lies and misinformation" run at the behest of CPI-M and Congress. Polling was deferred in Tripura East Lok Sabha after the EC said "law and order prevailing in the constituency is not conducive to the holding of free and fair polls." CPI-M Secretary General Sitaram Yechury on Friday had urged the election body to conduct re-polling at 464 booths in Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency, where the polling took place on April 11. "It is now established that there were large-scale irregularities. We hope EC will ensure that faith in our democracy is reaffirmed. The re-poll in 464 booths must be done as all voters should be able to exercise their franchise independently, exactly as it should be," Yechury had tweeted.

BJP refutes opposition claim that situation not conducive for poll in Tripura East

Congress candidate from North Goa Lok Sabha seat, Girish Chodankar, has claimed that there was no sympathy wave for the ruling BJP after the death of four-time chief minister Manohar Parrikar.

He also said the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party's move of joining hands with the Congress has improved his party's poll prospects in the state.

Chodankar is contesting against BJP candidate and Union minister Shripad Naik.

"Contrary to the expectations of the BJP leaders, there is no sympathy wave for the party after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-manohar-parrikar-203926&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwizzrGPqN7hAhUMTI8KHfINDowQFggGMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3U-7jr0_PBc1aH7vzBatl8">Parrikar's</a> death," Chodankar told PTI on Friday during his campaign trail.

There is a small section of BJP workers, who are still carrying the sympathy plank in the election, but not the entire party, he said.

"A small percentage of voters might get carried away with the feeling of sympathy. But by and large, there is no such trend among the voters, who are determined to get Congress elected to power," Chodankar, who is also the head of Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), said.

Parrikar died on March 17 this year after a year-long battle with a pancreatic ailment.

Chodankar said MGP's support has boosted the poll prospects of Congress's both the Lok Sabha candidates in Goa. 
MGP's relations with the BJP soured after its leader and Deputy Chief Minister Sudin Dhavalikar was dropped from the cabinet last month.

Goa Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatever-i-am-today-is-all-due-manohar-parrikar-new-goa-cm-pramod-sawant-204194&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiNm5vEqN7hAhVBiXAKHbqjDqUQFggbMAg&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0H23QLqskUv041uaHG6Pok">Pramod Sawant</a> had said he had to drop Dhavalikar from the cabinet as he "failed" to adhere to the common minimum programme of the coalition government.

The MGP, which won three assembly seats in the 2017 polls, was one of the key allies in the BJP-led government in the state.

"MGP joining hands with us is a big boost to our prospects. MGP workers are aggressively campaigning in various assembly constituencies in support of me and also our South Goa Parliamentary seat candidate Francis Sardinha," he said.

When asked whether Congress was eyeing a long-term association with the MGP, Chodankar said it was up to the latter.

"But we have always been saying that the parties which are against the BJP should come together, provided they have a common agenda to protect Goa and the Goan identity," he said.

The Congress leader said that he has been receiving tremendous support from the people belonging to mining, tourism and other sectors, who have "determined to defeat the BJP".

Election to the two Lok Sabha seats and three assembly bypolls in the state will be held on April 23.

Congress candidate from North Goa Lok Sabha seat, Girish Chodankar, has claimed that there was no sympathy wave for the ruling BJP after the death of four-time chief minister Manohar Parrikar.

Congress candidate from North Goa Lok Sabha seat, Girish Chodankar, has claimed that there was no sympathy wave for the ruling BJP after the death of four-time chief minister Manohar Parrikar. He also said the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party's move of joining hands with the Congress has improved his party's poll prospects in the state. Chodankar is contesting against BJP candidate and Union minister Shripad Naik. "Contrary to the expectations of the BJP leaders, there is no sympathy wave for the party after Parrikar's death," Chodankar told PTI on Friday during his campaign trail. There is a small section of BJP workers, who are still carrying the sympathy plank in the election, but not the entire party, he said. "A small percentage of voters might get carried away with the feeling of sympathy. But by and large, there is no such trend among the voters, who are determined to get Congress elected to power," Chodankar, who is also the head of Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), said. Parrikar died on March 17 this year after a year-long battle with a pancreatic ailment. Chodankar said MGP's support has boosted the poll prospects of Congress's both the Lok Sabha candidates in Goa. MGP's relations with the BJP soured after its leader and Deputy Chief Minister Sudin Dhavalikar was dropped from the cabinet last month. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had said he had to drop Dhavalikar from the cabinet as he "failed" to adhere to the common minimum programme of the coalition government. The MGP, which won three assembly seats in the 2017 polls, was one of the key allies in the BJP-led government in the state. "MGP joining hands with us is a big boost to our prospects. MGP workers are aggressively campaigning in various assembly constituencies in support of me and also our South Goa Parliamentary seat candidate Francis Sardinha," he said. When asked whether Congress was eyeing a long-term association with the MGP, Chodankar said it was up to the latter. "But we have always been saying that the parties which are against the BJP should come together, provided they have a common agenda to protect Goa and the Goan identity," he said. The Congress leader said that he has been receiving tremendous support from the people belonging to mining, tourism and other sectors, who have "determined to defeat the BJP". Election to the two Lok Sabha seats and three assembly bypolls in the state will be held on April 23.

No sympathy wave for BJP after Parrikar's death: Congress leader

Ending days of speculation over the alliance with Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party clarified on Saturday that an alliance with the former was not possible in the national capital as the party&nbsp;refused to have tie-up anywhere else.

Accusing the Congress of playing "spoilsport" in alliance talks and "being unfair" by not giving them any seat in Punjab and asking for too many seats in Delhi, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said their party has closed all the negotiations now.

"We are strong in Delhi, while Congress is nowhere close. In Haryana, they denied, even when we offered them seven seats. There is no hope left for a coalition with Congress. We have also closed all the negotiations now. There is no question of seat-sharing with Congress in Delhi," he said.

"The Congress doesn`t have a single seat in Delhi, but they are demanding three seats from us. In Punjab, we have 4 MPs and 20 MLAs, yet they are not giving us any seats to contest from the state," said Manish Sisodia.

He further added that the Congress first proposed 6:3:1 seat sharing formula to the AAP in Haryana where six seats would be for Congress, three for Janayak Janata Party and one seat for AAP. "Our decision to form an alliance with the Congress was to stop the Modi-Shah duo," he said.

Senior party leader Sanjay Singh said they have agreed to all the seat-sharing arrangements that the Congress proposed but even then the grand old party backtracked.

"After discussions with our alliance partner in Haryana JJP we agreed to it but the Congress refused and said they can't give more than two seats to the JJP and proposed 7:2:1 formula," said Singh, who was negotiating with the Congress.

JJP chief Dushyant Chautala even agreed to that but then the Congress backtracked again on Friday night, saying there is no possibility of formation of any alliance anywhere except Delhi, he said.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia further targetted the Congress by saying&nbsp;that giving three seats to the party in the national capital would mean "giving three seats to the BJP".

Elections in Delhi will be held on May 12 in the sixth phase for all the seven seats.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will begin on May 23.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ending days of speculation over the alliance with Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party clarified on Saturday that an alliance with the former was not possible in the national capital as the party refused to have tie-up anywhere else.

Ending days of speculation over the alliance with Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party clarified on Saturday that an alliance with the former was not possible in the national capital as the party refused to have tie-up anywhere else. Accusing the Congress of playing "spoilsport" in alliance talks and "being unfair" by not giving them any seat in Punjab and asking for too many seats in Delhi, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said their party has closed all the negotiations now. "We are strong in Delhi, while Congress is nowhere close. In Haryana, they denied, even when we offered them seven seats. There is no hope left for a coalition with Congress. We have also closed all the negotiations now. There is no question of seat-sharing with Congress in Delhi," he said. "The Congress doesn`t have a single seat in Delhi, but they are demanding three seats from us. In Punjab, we have 4 MPs and 20 MLAs, yet they are not giving us any seats to contest from the state," said Manish Sisodia. He further added that the Congress first proposed 6:3:1 seat sharing formula to the AAP in Haryana where six seats would be for Congress, three for Janayak Janata Party and one seat for AAP. "Our decision to form an alliance with the Congress was to stop the Modi-Shah duo," he said. Senior party leader Sanjay Singh said they have agreed to all the seat-sharing arrangements that the Congress proposed but even then the grand old party backtracked. "After discussions with our alliance partner in Haryana JJP we agreed to it but the Congress refused and said they can't give more than two seats to the JJP and proposed 7:2:1 formula," said Singh, who was negotiating with the Congress. JJP chief Dushyant Chautala even agreed to that but then the Congress backtracked again on Friday night, saying there is no possibility of formation of any alliance anywhere except Delhi, he said. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia further targetted the Congress by saying that giving three seats to the party in the national capital would mean "giving three seats to the BJP". Elections in Delhi will be held on May 12 in the sixth phase for all the seven seats. The counting of votes will begin on May 23. (With inputs from agencies)

No hope left for alliance with Congress now: Manish Sisodia

BJP’s <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-karnataka-to-witness-neck-to-neck-contests-211263&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjsqKqsv9vhAhUZVH0KHf0iA78QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1OVn8A8aWb-KyAOP3SHHtS">Karnataka</a> unit on Thursday wrote to the Election Commission over alleged “mass indiscriminate deletion of voters’ names from the voters list” in the state. The party alleged that some officials are working as agents of ruling coalition government of JD(S) and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-an-existential-battle-for-congress-134207&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjsqKqsv9vhAhUZVH0KHf0iA78QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0VsShbFYn1aJRF3wYC9arf">Congress</a>.

In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer, the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/karnataka-election-results-if-bjp-wins-congs-alternate-front-pitch-for-2019-falls-flat-136994&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjsqKqsv9vhAhUZVH0KHf0iA78QFggKMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1T-WH9K-J7UKbUxuvXL7mU">BJP</a> said: “The officials have purposefully and deliberately deleted names without any reason, just to render undue official favour to the ruling coalition party.” Claiming that names have been deleted despite people residing on the same address, the Bharatiya Janata Party in its letter demanded strict action against erring officials: “This is nothing but dereliction of duty by the concerned officials. If strict action is not taken against such biased officials, we can’t expect fair and free election from the Election Commission.”

The letter further stated that such deletions were reported to the Election Commission during the Vidhan Sabha elections too but no action was taken. “Even though during the last Vidhan Sabha election also such deletion has taken place and the same was reported to the Commission, the Election Commission has not taken any stringent action against such officials. This is the only reason which has boosted the concerned biased officials to further work as agents of ruling coalition party to further delete the names of voters,” the letter read.

BJP stated that the party will go to court to redress the issue: “We are definitely going to the court to redress the illegality committed by the erring officials. In the places where mass deletion has taken place, repolling by giving an opportunity to the voters whose names have been illegally deleted is inevitable. Therefore, this Commission’s interference is warranted.”

BJP’s Karnataka unit on Thursday wrote to the Election Commission over alleged “mass indiscriminate deletion of voters’ names from the voters list” in the state.

BJP’s Karnataka unit on Thursday wrote to the Election Commission over alleged “mass indiscriminate deletion of voters’ names from the voters list” in the state. The party alleged that some officials are working as agents of ruling coalition government of JD(S) and Congress. In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer, the BJP said: “The officials have purposefully and deliberately deleted names without any reason, just to render undue official favour to the ruling coalition party.” Claiming that names have been deleted despite people residing on the same address, the Bharatiya Janata Party in its letter demanded strict action against erring officials: “This is nothing but dereliction of duty by the concerned officials. If strict action is not taken against such biased officials, we can’t expect fair and free election from the Election Commission.” The letter further stated that such deletions were reported to the Election Commission during the Vidhan Sabha elections too but no action was taken. “Even though during the last Vidhan Sabha election also such deletion has taken place and the same was reported to the Commission, the Election Commission has not taken any stringent action against such officials. This is the only reason which has boosted the concerned biased officials to further work as agents of ruling coalition party to further delete the names of voters,” the letter read. BJP stated that the party will go to court to redress the issue: “We are definitely going to the court to redress the illegality committed by the erring officials. In the places where mass deletion has taken place, repolling by giving an opportunity to the voters whose names have been illegally deleted is inevitable. Therefore, this Commission’s interference is warranted.”

Lok Sabha elections 2019: BJP alleges mass deletion of voters’ names from list in Karnataka, writes to EC

Congress president <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-nyay-to-undo-the-anyay-of-narendra-modi-govt-rahul-gandhi-209114&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiDiu20_9vhAhVMv48KHc-IDGcQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0OBhYm2S8hoQBMMlAFOdjc">Rahul Gandhi </a>Friday said his party's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-will-do-nyay-to-governments-of-the-great-mgr-asks-pm-modi-in-tamil-nadu-210024&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiDiu20_9vhAhVMv48KHc-IDGcQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw35HDg1-OkF1few_h-N9NIO">'Nyay'</a> scheme will help in revival of the economy and create jobs in the country which has been badly affected by demonetisation and GST decisions of the Narendra Modi government.

Addressing a poll rally in Gujarat, Gandhi repeated his "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman if thief) jibe to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and alleged he has given Rs 30,000 crore to businessman Anil Ambani in the Rafale fighter jet deal.

"We have promised to give Rs 72,000 crore (a year) to poor people under the Nyay scheme which will change the economic condition of the poor in the country," he said.

Gandhi said the scheme, Nyuntam Aay Yojana (Nyay) - a key feature of the Congress manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls - was devised after consultations within the party.

"I had called all the economists of the Congress party and asked them what is the amount that we can give to the poor people of the country.

"They came up with the figure of Rs 72,000," he said, adding Modi had in 2014 made a false promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to people, but the Congress will definitely give Rs 3.60 lakh (estimated cost of `Nyay').

The Congress chief attacked the Modi government over its 2016 note-ban exercise.

"One fine day, Narendra Modi announced that notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 have been scrapped as they do not help me create more black money. So I will introduce a new note of Rs 2,000 as through it we can make more black money," Gandhi said, mocking the demonetisation move.

"They&nbsp;introduced Gabbar Singh Tax. Both the steps were big blows to our economy," he said, criticising the BJP- led government over its implementation of the Good and Services Tax (GST).

"Common people had stopped purchasing goods after demonetisation due to cash crunch, so Indian companies producing goods were closed down. Hence, the unemployment rate is highest at 45 per cent in the country now," Gandhi said.

"However, our Nyay scheme will revive the economy and create more jobs. Money that will go to people under the Nyay scheme will help people purchase things, our companies will be revived and people will get a job," he said.

Gandhi said the Modi government is working for a few rich industrialists.

"This government works for rich industrialists only. Do common people require chowkidar? Chowkidar is not required in front of the house of farmers.&nbsp; 
This is Anil Ambani's chowkidar," Gandhi, said targeting Modi.

"The chowkidar gave Rs 30,000 crore to Ambani. Chowkidar chors hai," the Congress said, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal with France.

Anil Ambani has rejected Gandhi's allegations and emphasised that the government had no role in the Rafale- manufacturer French company Dassault picking up his company as a local partner.

"Under the new crop insurance scheme, the government has given districts and states to a few rich industrialists. Modi has given the entire Kashmir to Anil Ambani," he said.

Gandhi said if his party comes to power, it will bring a law to ensure farmers do not go to jail if they default on the payment of loans.

He said the Congress governments, after coming to power, waived loans of farmers in states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

"Narendra Modi does not have money to waive farmer loans, but they have money to waive loans taken by big industrialists," Gandhi said.

He was addressing the poll rally at Bajipura in Bardoli district from where Congress candidate Tushar Chaudhary is fighting polls.

The Congress chief had addressed two rallies Thursday in Gujarat - one in Vanthli in Junagadh district and the other at Bhuj in Kutch district.

Speaking to reporters Thursday night, Gandhi had said an undercurrent in favour of the Congress was evident in the entire country and Modi is losing the 2019 elections.

All the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will vote in a single phase on

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said his party's 'Nyay' scheme will help in revival of the economy and create jobs in the country which has been badly affected by demonetisation and GST decisions of the Narendra Modi government.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said his party's 'Nyay' scheme will help in revival of the economy and create jobs in the country which has been badly affected by demonetisation and GST decisions of the Narendra Modi government. Addressing a poll rally in Gujarat, Gandhi repeated his "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman if thief) jibe to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and alleged he has given Rs 30,000 crore to businessman Anil Ambani in the Rafale fighter jet deal. "We have promised to give Rs 72,000 crore (a year) to poor people under the Nyay scheme which will change the economic condition of the poor in the country," he said. Gandhi said the scheme, Nyuntam Aay Yojana (Nyay) - a key feature of the Congress manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls - was devised after consultations within the party. "I had called all the economists of the Congress party and asked them what is the amount that we can give to the poor people of the country. "They came up with the figure of Rs 72,000," he said, adding Modi had in 2014 made a false promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to people, but the Congress will definitely give Rs 3.60 lakh (estimated cost of `Nyay'). The Congress chief attacked the Modi government over its 2016 note-ban exercise. "One fine day, Narendra Modi announced that notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 have been scrapped as they do not help me create more black money. So I will introduce a new note of Rs 2,000 as through it we can make more black money," Gandhi said, mocking the demonetisation move. "They introduced Gabbar Singh Tax. Both the steps were big blows to our economy," he said, criticising the BJP- led government over its implementation of the Good and Services Tax (GST). "Common people had stopped purchasing goods after demonetisation due to cash crunch, so Indian companies producing goods were closed down. Hence, the unemployment rate is highest at 45 per cent in the country now," Gandhi said. "However, our Nyay scheme will revive the economy and create more jobs. Money that will go to people under the Nyay scheme will help people purchase things, our companies will be revived and people will get a job," he said. Gandhi said the Modi government is working for a few rich industrialists. "This government works for rich industrialists only. Do common people require chowkidar? Chowkidar is not required in front of the house of farmers. This is Anil Ambani's chowkidar," Gandhi, said targeting Modi. "The chowkidar gave Rs 30,000 crore to Ambani. Chowkidar chors hai," the Congress said, alleging corruption in the Rafale deal with France. Anil Ambani has rejected Gandhi's allegations and emphasised that the government had no role in the Rafale- manufacturer French company Dassault picking up his company as a local partner. "Under the new crop insurance scheme, the government has given districts and states to a few rich industrialists. Modi has given the entire Kashmir to Anil Ambani," he said. Gandhi said if his party comes to power, it will bring a law to ensure farmers do not go to jail if they default on the payment of loans. He said the Congress governments, after coming to power, waived loans of farmers in states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. "Narendra Modi does not have money to waive farmer loans, but they have money to waive loans taken by big industrialists," Gandhi said. He was addressing the poll rally at Bajipura in Bardoli district from where Congress candidate Tushar Chaudhary is fighting polls. The Congress chief had addressed two rallies Thursday in Gujarat - one in Vanthli in Junagadh district and the other at Bhuj in Kutch district. Speaking to reporters Thursday night, Gandhi had said an undercurrent in favour of the Congress was evident in the entire country and Modi is losing the 2019 elections. All the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will vote in a single phase on

'Nyay' will revive economy, create jobs, says Rahul Gandhi in Gujarat rally

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls.

After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are"&nbsp;he said.

Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said.

"They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again"&nbsp;he said.

CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again.

Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments.

"In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also",&nbsp;he said.

When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi.

Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state.&nbsp;

Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.&nbsp;

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections. The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls. After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are" he said. Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said. "They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again" he said. CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again. Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments. "In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also", he said. When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi. Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state. Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.

Congress has become a fringe party, siding with tukde tukde gang: Javadekar

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