Senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai on Thursday reacted over the collapse of an alliance with Congress in Delhi for the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

Rai stated that AAP had made one last effort but can't understand why Congress stepped back.

"We had made one last effort, Sanjay Singh ji held talks, but can't understand that after almost finalizing the matter and seat sharing why the Congress stepped back last evening," Rai told media today.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha alliance between Aam Aadmi Party and Congress party in Delhi <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alliance-with-congress-in-delhi-has-been-called-off-aap-leader-sanjay-singh-211214">was called off on Wednesday</a>, AAP leader Sanjay Singh told media.&nbsp;

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Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai on alliance with Congress: We had made one last effort, Sanjay Singh ji held talks, but can't understand that after almost finalizing the matter and seat sharing why the Congress stepped back last evening <a href="https://t.co/Q2crRUW0Wo">pic.twitter.com/Q2crRUW0Wo</a>
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As per reports, the alliance was called-off following a disagreement over tie-up in Haryana and Delhi, news agency PTI reported quoting Singh.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi have lately been in a flip-flop over the much-anticipated alliance in Delhi for Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision.

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

"What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on.&nbsp;

"Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read.&nbsp;

Senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai on Thursday reacted over the collapse of an alliance with Congress in Delhi for the Lok Sabha polls. Rai stated that AAP had made one last effort but can't understand why Congress stepped back.

Senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai on Thursday reacted over the collapse of an alliance with Congress in Delhi for the Lok Sabha polls. Rai stated that AAP had made one last effort but can't understand why Congress stepped back. "We had made one last effort, Sanjay Singh ji held talks, but can't understand that after almost finalizing the matter and seat sharing why the Congress stepped back last evening," Rai told media today. The Lok Sabha alliance between Aam Aadmi Party and Congress party in Delhi was called off on Wednesday, AAP leader Sanjay Singh told media. Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai on alliance with Congress: We had made one last effort, Sanjay Singh ji held talks, but can't understand that after almost finalizing the matter and seat sharing why the Congress stepped back last evening pic.twitter.com/Q2crRUW0Wo — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2019 × As per reports, the alliance was called-off following a disagreement over tie-up in Haryana and Delhi, news agency PTI reported quoting Singh. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi have lately been in a flip-flop over the much-anticipated alliance in Delhi for Lok Sabha polls. The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision. A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi. "What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on. "Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read.

Don't understand why did Congress step back: AAP on alliance in Delhi

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday.

Polling will be held in Nagina (SC), Amroha, Bulandshahr (SC), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-aligarh-bjp-candidate-facing-strong-anti-incumbency-residents-say-unhappy-over-amu-row-211129">Aligarh</a>, Hathras (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Mathura and Agra (SC).

Fatehpur Sikri will see a triangular battle between Babbar, BJP's Rajkumar Chahar and BSP's Shreebhagwan Sharma, who is a two-time MLA from Debai assembly constituency of Bulandshahr.

While in the temple-town constituency of Mathura, Bollywood "dream girl" of yesteryears, Hema Malini, is seeking re-election after winning the seat in the 2014 general elections.

The other candidates in the fray are Kunwar Narendra Singh of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and Mahesh Pathak of the Congress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-phase-polls-bjp-mahagathbandhan-set-to-lock-horns-in-uttar-pradeshs-amroha-210709">In Amroha, sitting BJP MP Kanwar Singh Tanwar</a> will lock horns with Bahujan Samaj Party's Kunwar Danish Ali, who recently joined the party after quitting as the general secretary of the Janata Dal-Secular.

The eight Lok Sabha seats were bagged by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. This time it faces a tough fight from the SP-BSP-RLD alliance.

In this phase, the BSP has fielded candidates for six of the eight constituencies -- Nagina, Amroha, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The SP and the RLD have fielded one candidate each from Hathras and Mathura respectively.

Apart from Hema Malini and Tanwar, the BJP has retained three other MPs - Yashwant Singh (Nagina), Bhola Singh (Bulandshahr) and Satish Gautam (Aligarh).

The Election Commission has set up 16,162 polling booths in 8,751 polling centres for this phase in the state.

In Agra, UP animal husbandry, minor irrigation and fisheries minister S P Singh Baghel (BJP) will take on Preeta Harit of the Congress and Manoj Kumar Soni of the BSP.

In Aligarh, the fight is between Gautam (BJP), Ajeet Baliyan (BSP) and Bijendra Singh (Congress) while in Hathras, Rajvir Diler of the BJP will take on Ramji Lal Suman of the Samajwadi Party and Triloki Ram of the Congress.&nbsp;

In Bulandshahr, the contest figures Bhola Singh (BJP), Yogesh Verma (BSP) and Banshi Singh (Congress).

The Nagina constituency will see Singh defending his turf against Omvati Devi of the Congress and Girish Chandra of the BSP.

While Singh is a former SP leader, Devi has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday.

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Raj Babbar and another actor-turned-politician Hema Malini are among the 85 candidates contesting for eight Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of elections in the state on Thursday. Polling will be held in Nagina (SC), Amroha, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Hathras (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Mathura and Agra (SC). Fatehpur Sikri will see a triangular battle between Babbar, BJP's Rajkumar Chahar and BSP's Shreebhagwan Sharma, who is a two-time MLA from Debai assembly constituency of Bulandshahr. While in the temple-town constituency of Mathura, Bollywood "dream girl" of yesteryears, Hema Malini, is seeking re-election after winning the seat in the 2014 general elections. The other candidates in the fray are Kunwar Narendra Singh of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and Mahesh Pathak of the Congress. In Amroha, sitting BJP MP Kanwar Singh Tanwar will lock horns with Bahujan Samaj Party's Kunwar Danish Ali, who recently joined the party after quitting as the general secretary of the Janata Dal-Secular. The eight Lok Sabha seats were bagged by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. This time it faces a tough fight from the SP-BSP-RLD alliance. In this phase, the BSP has fielded candidates for six of the eight constituencies -- Nagina, Amroha, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The SP and the RLD have fielded one candidate each from Hathras and Mathura respectively. Apart from Hema Malini and Tanwar, the BJP has retained three other MPs - Yashwant Singh (Nagina), Bhola Singh (Bulandshahr) and Satish Gautam (Aligarh). The Election Commission has set up 16,162 polling booths in 8,751 polling centres for this phase in the state. In Agra, UP animal husbandry, minor irrigation and fisheries minister S P Singh Baghel (BJP) will take on Preeta Harit of the Congress and Manoj Kumar Soni of the BSP. In Aligarh, the fight is between Gautam (BJP), Ajeet Baliyan (BSP) and Bijendra Singh (Congress) while in Hathras, Rajvir Diler of the BJP will take on Ramji Lal Suman of the Samajwadi Party and Triloki Ram of the Congress. In Bulandshahr, the contest figures Bhola Singh (BJP), Yogesh Verma (BSP) and Banshi Singh (Congress). The Nagina constituency will see Singh defending his turf against Omvati Devi of the Congress and Girish Chandra of the BSP. While Singh is a former SP leader, Devi has been with all the four principal parties in the state - SP, BSP, BJP and Congress - at different times of her political career.

Second phase polls in Uttar Pradesh to decide fate of Raj Babbar, Hema Malini

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves".

Addressing a poll rally, PM Modi also accused the Congress of insulting Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel and said the situation in India would have been different had the latter been the country's first prime minister.

The Prime Minister also attacked the Congress for labelling the middle class as "selfish" and alleged it brought price rise whenever it was in power.

"Division of communities is the only vision of the Congress," Modi told the public meeting.

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PM in Anand, Gujarat: Congress has said in its manifesto that it wants to remove the sedition law, so that stone pelting in J&amp;K &amp; Naxalism in rest of the places in the country can be strengthened, 'tukde tukde gang desh ke tukde karne ki apni shararatein khule aam kar paayein' <a href="https://t.co/Xqd1Ktqn9g">pic.twitter.com/Xqd1Ktqn9g</a>
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"The Congress' naamdar (dynast) termed the entire backward class as thieves. The insult inflicted on the honest in their (Congress) vendetta against Narendra Modi will not be tolerated," he said.

The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Patel "at every step to further the cause of the (Nehru-Gandhi) family".

He said Patel spent his life in uniting India but the Congress was busy embracing separatists.

He also hit out at the Congress for promising to abolish sedition law and reviewing of the AFSPA if it came to power.

"It wants to strengthen stone-pelters and ensure that the "tukde tukde gang" can easily chalk out a conspiracy to disintegrate the country," Modi said.

He said when the dynastic rule becomes the "sole vision", then they (Congress) resort to hurling abuses.

Modi said the Congress insulted attires of people from the north-eastern states and linked majority Hindus to terror.

Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra recently, Gandhi had said, "I have a question. Why all the thieves have Modi in their names whether be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Narendra Modi? We don't know how many more such Modis will come out."&nbsp;

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves".

Stepping up his attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said "division" of communities was its only "vision" and accused party chief Rahul Gandhi of labelling OBCs as "thieves". Addressing a poll rally, PM Modi also accused the Congress of insulting Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel and said the situation in India would have been different had the latter been the country's first prime minister. The Prime Minister also attacked the Congress for labelling the middle class as "selfish" and alleged it brought price rise whenever it was in power. "Division of communities is the only vision of the Congress," Modi told the public meeting. PM in Anand, Gujarat: Congress has said in its manifesto that it wants to remove the sedition law, so that stone pelting in J&K & Naxalism in rest of the places in the country can be strengthened, 'tukde tukde gang desh ke tukde karne ki apni shararatein khule aam kar paayein' pic.twitter.com/Xqd1Ktqn9g — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2019 × "The Congress' naamdar (dynast) termed the entire backward class as thieves. The insult inflicted on the honest in their (Congress) vendetta against Narendra Modi will not be tolerated," he said. The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Patel "at every step to further the cause of the (Nehru-Gandhi) family". He said Patel spent his life in uniting India but the Congress was busy embracing separatists. He also hit out at the Congress for promising to abolish sedition law and reviewing of the AFSPA if it came to power. "It wants to strengthen stone-pelters and ensure that the "tukde tukde gang" can easily chalk out a conspiracy to disintegrate the country," Modi said. He said when the dynastic rule becomes the "sole vision", then they (Congress) resort to hurling abuses. Modi said the Congress insulted attires of people from the north-eastern states and linked majority Hindus to terror. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra recently, Gandhi had said, "I have a question. Why all the thieves have Modi in their names whether be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi and Narendra Modi? We don't know how many more such Modis will come out."

Division of communities only vision of Congress: PM Modi

The Lok Sabha alliance between Aam Aadmi Party and Congress party in Delhi has been called off, AAP leader Sanjay Singh told media on Wednesday.&nbsp;

As per reports, the alliance has been called-off following a disagreement over tie-up in Haryana and Delhi, news agency PTI reported quoting Singh.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-u-turn-tweet-suggests-youre-not-interested-in-alliance-kejriwal-slams-rahul-gandhi-210728">Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi</a> have lately been in a flip-flop over the much-anticipated alliance in Delhi for Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision.

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Sanjay Singh, AAP: In order to stop BJP we were ready for an alliance with Congress, but Congress is not in a mood for any coalition. It is a matter of sadness, that even after so many efforts, Congress is not ready for any kind of compromise. <a href="https://t.co/UbaxqsbW6K">pic.twitter.com/UbaxqsbW6K</a>
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A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

"What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on.&nbsp;

"Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read.&nbsp;

Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too".

Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!"&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha alliance between Aam Aadmi Party and Congress party in Delhi has been called off, AAP leader Sanjay Singh told media on Wednesday. As per reports, the alliance has been called-off following a disagreement over tie-up in Haryana and Delhi, news agency PTI reported quoting Singh.

The Lok Sabha alliance between Aam Aadmi Party and Congress party in Delhi has been called off, AAP leader Sanjay Singh told media on Wednesday. As per reports, the alliance has been called-off following a disagreement over tie-up in Haryana and Delhi, news agency PTI reported quoting Singh. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi have lately been in a flip-flop over the much-anticipated alliance in Delhi for Lok Sabha polls. The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision. Sanjay Singh, AAP: In order to stop BJP we were ready for an alliance with Congress, but Congress is not in a mood for any coalition. It is a matter of sadness, that even after so many efforts, Congress is not ready for any kind of compromise. pic.twitter.com/UbaxqsbW6K — ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2019 × A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi. "What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on. "Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read. Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too". Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!" (With inputs from agencies)

Alliance with Congress in Delhi has been called off: AAP leader Sanjay Singh

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday reached out to the people of Wayanad, saying he did not want to make false promises, but was committed to resolving their issues after hearing their "heart and soul".

Taking a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi said he was not here to tell his 'Mann Ki Baat' but to understand the difficulties, including the night travel ban, man-animal conflicts and lack of medical facilities, being faced by the people here.

"I am not like the Prime Minister.. I am not here to tell you that I will give you 2 crore jobs, Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts. I will give farmers and give them whatever they want.. I am not going to lie to you.. Because I respect your intelligence.. Your wisdom," Gandhi told the gathering.

"I just don't want to have a relationship ofjust few months. I want a lifelong relationship with you. I want the sisters of Wayanad to say that I am like their brother, fathers and mothers to say that I am their son," he said.

The Congress chief said he wanted to represent Wayanad as the "beautiful place" symbolises different ideas, cultures and that the rest of the country can learn from Kerala and Wayanad.

"Once I decided to fight election from south India, I realised that Wayanad was the best place. Because it represents many many different ideas, cultures... Kerala is an example of peaceful co-existence. There is a lot that the rest of the country can learn from Kerala and Wayanad," he said.

Gandhi said he decided to contest from South India to make a point that the voice of south is as "important" as rest of the country.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday reached out to the people of Wayanad, saying he did not want to make false promises, but was committed to resolving their issues after hearing their "heart and soul".

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday reached out to the people of Wayanad, saying he did not want to make false promises, but was committed to resolving their issues after hearing their "heart and soul". Taking a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi said he was not here to tell his 'Mann Ki Baat' but to understand the difficulties, including the night travel ban, man-animal conflicts and lack of medical facilities, being faced by the people here. "I am not like the Prime Minister.. I am not here to tell you that I will give you 2 crore jobs, Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts. I will give farmers and give them whatever they want.. I am not going to lie to you.. Because I respect your intelligence.. Your wisdom," Gandhi told the gathering. "I just don't want to have a relationship ofjust few months. I want a lifelong relationship with you. I want the sisters of Wayanad to say that I am like their brother, fathers and mothers to say that I am their son," he said. The Congress chief said he wanted to represent Wayanad as the "beautiful place" symbolises different ideas, cultures and that the rest of the country can learn from Kerala and Wayanad. "Once I decided to fight election from south India, I realised that Wayanad was the best place. Because it represents many many different ideas, cultures... Kerala is an example of peaceful co-existence. There is a lot that the rest of the country can learn from Kerala and Wayanad," he said. Gandhi said he decided to contest from South India to make a point that the voice of south is as "important" as rest of the country.

Not here to make false promises: Rahul Gandhi in Kerala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/middle-class-has-always-suffered-under-congress-pm-modi-in-tripura-208537">Congress</a>, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India.

Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

"Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said.

Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state.

"The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said.

The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region.

"The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said.

The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said.

The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances".

Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university.

Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card."

Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to. "Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said. Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. "The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said. The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region. "The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said. The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said. The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances". Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university. Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card." Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Congress blowing Pakistan's trumpet more than India's: Modi in Manipur

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

"What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on.&nbsp;

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-alliance-with-aap-rahul-gandhi-says-times-running-out-ready-to-give-4-seats-210651">Your tweet</a> exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read.&nbsp;

Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too".

Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!"&nbsp;

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कौन सा U-टर्न?अभी तो बातचीत चल रही थी 
 
आपका ट्वीट दिखाता है कि गठबंधन आपकी इच्छा नहीं मात्र दिखावा है।मुझे दुःख है आप बयान बाज़ी कर रहे हैं 
 
आज देश को मोदी-शाह के ख़तरे से बचाना अहं है।दुर्भाग्य कि आप UP और अन्य राज्यों में भी मोदी विरोधी वोट बाँट कर मोदी जी की मदद कर रहे हैं <a href="https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S">https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S</a>
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"An alliance between the Congress and AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Congress Delhi in-charge PC Chacko said that the AAP is suggesting an alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi.&nbsp;

"Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states," Chacko said on Monday.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday reacted over Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's remark wherein he accuses Kejriwal of taking a U-turns on an alliance in Delhi. "What U-turn?" tweets Kejriwal adding that talks are still going on. "Your tweet exhibits that you are not interested in an alliance, I am sad that you are indulging in just giving out statements," Kejriwal's tweet read. Kejriwal went on to say that the country needs to be saved from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji" and unfortunately, "the Congress is just helping the BJP by distributing anti-Modi votes in UP and other states too". Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!" कौन सा U-टर्न?अभी तो बातचीत चल रही थी आपका ट्वीट दिखाता है कि गठबंधन आपकी इच्छा नहीं मात्र दिखावा है।मुझे दुःख है आप बयान बाज़ी कर रहे हैं आज देश को मोदी-शाह के ख़तरे से बचाना अहं है।दुर्भाग्य कि आप UP और अन्य राज्यों में भी मोदी विरोधी वोट बाँट कर मोदी जी की मदद कर रहे हैं https://t.co/9jnYXJFA0S — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 15, 2019 × "An alliance between the Congress and AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet. He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out". Meanwhile, Congress Delhi in-charge PC Chacko said that the AAP is suggesting an alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi. "Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states," Chacko said on Monday.

'What U-turn? Tweet suggests you're not interested in alliance': Kejriwal slams Rahul Gandhi 

The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-u-turn-tweet-suggests-youre-not-interested-in-alliance-kejriwal-slams-rahul-gandhi-210728">an alliance with the AAP in Delhi</a> and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision.

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it.

"Party president Rahul Gandhi has made it pretty clear that an alliance can be formed just in Delhi in a ratio of 4:3," he told reporters, in response to a question on an alliance.

"People have expressed their doubts to us over AAP but despite that we have shown a big heart and for a common objective we have agreed to form an alliance in Delhi.&nbsp; 
Senior party leader Randeep Surjewala has made it clear on the party's stand on alliance in other states," he said.

He accused Kejriwal of playing "hide and seek" and said Gandhi has made its stand clear.

Surjewala had last week said that if an alliance has to be made it can only be made in the national capital and not in other states.

Amid a continuing blame game over seat-sharing in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal Monday engaged in a public spat, with the Congress president accusing the AAP of making a 'U-turn' over alliance talks prompting the Delhi chief minister to hit back at him.

The Congress chief had said while the doors of his party are open, time is running out, but Kejriwal slammed him, questioning what U-turn was he talking about as the talks were still on.

The Congress has offered the AAP 4:3 seat-sharing formula - four Lok Sabha seats for the ruling party and three seats for itself while the AAP has proposed 5:2 ration keeping five seats for itself and two for the grand old party.

The arrangement has been arrived at on basis of the vote share of both parties in 2017 civic polls here.

The Congress has accused the Kejriwal-led outfit of backing out from its commitment, as it is demanding seats in Goa, Haryana, Punjab and Chandigarh, besides Delhi for a pre-poll understanding with the Congress.

AAP leader Sanjay Singh said in response to Gandhi's tweet, "The Congress is not giving even a single seat to the AAP in Punjab where it has four MPs and 20 MLAs and in Haryana."

"In Delhi where the Congress has zero MPs and MLAs, it is demanding three seats. Is this how an agreement happens? Why do not you want to stop the BJP in other states," he asked.

The AAP has already announced its candidates on the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi, while the Congress has finalised names of its candidates which could be announced soon.&nbsp;

The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision.

The Congress Tuesday asserted that it has shown a "big heart" by agreeing to form an alliance with the AAP in Delhi and said the ball is now in the court of the Arvind Kejriwal-led party to take a decision. A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indulged in a public spat over the issue, the grand old party said it has already offered AAP four seats in the national capital and now the decision has to be taken by it. "Party president Rahul Gandhi has made it pretty clear that an alliance can be formed just in Delhi in a ratio of 4:3," he told reporters, in response to a question on an alliance. "People have expressed their doubts to us over AAP but despite that we have shown a big heart and for a common objective we have agreed to form an alliance in Delhi. Senior party leader Randeep Surjewala has made it clear on the party's stand on alliance in other states," he said. He accused Kejriwal of playing "hide and seek" and said Gandhi has made its stand clear. Surjewala had last week said that if an alliance has to be made it can only be made in the national capital and not in other states. Amid a continuing blame game over seat-sharing in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal Monday engaged in a public spat, with the Congress president accusing the AAP of making a 'U-turn' over alliance talks prompting the Delhi chief minister to hit back at him. The Congress chief had said while the doors of his party are open, time is running out, but Kejriwal slammed him, questioning what U-turn was he talking about as the talks were still on. The Congress has offered the AAP 4:3 seat-sharing formula - four Lok Sabha seats for the ruling party and three seats for itself while the AAP has proposed 5:2 ration keeping five seats for itself and two for the grand old party. The arrangement has been arrived at on basis of the vote share of both parties in 2017 civic polls here. The Congress has accused the Kejriwal-led outfit of backing out from its commitment, as it is demanding seats in Goa, Haryana, Punjab and Chandigarh, besides Delhi for a pre-poll understanding with the Congress. AAP leader Sanjay Singh said in response to Gandhi's tweet, "The Congress is not giving even a single seat to the AAP in Punjab where it has four MPs and 20 MLAs and in Haryana." "In Delhi where the Congress has zero MPs and MLAs, it is demanding three seats. Is this how an agreement happens? Why do not you want to stop the BJP in other states," he asked. The AAP has already announced its candidates on the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi, while the Congress has finalised names of its candidates which could be announced soon.

Ball is in AAP's court to take a decision on alliance in Delhi: Congress

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-raids-continue-at-various-locations-in-madhya-pradesh-security-heightened-208681&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi0_Yr7itThAhUM6XMBHSm7AzYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3oa_gTVL_qZZMX3hh6t4Mz"> raids</a> at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership.

The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel.

JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta."

On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began.

The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC.

Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore.

The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets."

"The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks.

These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said.

The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.&nbsp;

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections. Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership. The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel. JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta." On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began. The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC. Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore. The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets." "The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks. These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said. The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.

IT raids at premises of people linked to JDS in Mandya, Hassan

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha.&nbsp;

What makes the contest in Amroha interesting is the fact that the result&nbsp;here, time and again, defies any set pattern. While the seat currently rests with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 2009 Rashtriya Lok Dal's Devendra Nagpal had registered a victory here.&nbsp;

In 2004, the constituency went to an independent candidate, whereas Mayawati's BSP swept the polls in 1999.&nbsp;

Caste factor

The caste factor turns around the tables almost every time in Amroha, making it nearly impossible to predict the verdict here. The region, although dominated by Muslims, also sees considerable numbers of Jats - a double-edged sword, strong enough to swing results. Dalits also enjoy a sizeable presence, especially in the rural areas.

BJP versus Mahagathbandhan?

This time around, there seems to be a direct contest between the BJP and the Mahagathbandhan. BJP's incumbent MP Kanwar Singh is set to lock horns with Danish Ali, Janata Dal (S) ex-general secretary who is fighting on a BSP ticket. Congress had earlier given a ticket to BSP-turncoat Rashid Alvi but later decided to field Sachin Chaudhary.&nbsp;

Congress'&nbsp;weak report card&nbsp;

Interestingly, the seat has never fallen into Congress' kitty after 1984 when Ram Pal Singh won from the constituency. Since then, the electoral battle here has been largely alternating.

What's at stake?

Of late, the saffron party has been facing a negative sentiment from the region with the local Gujjar community expressing dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Kanwar Singh. Dalit Muslim polarization may negatively affect BJP's prospects.&nbsp;

BSP may suffer because of its former MP Rashid Alvi switching camps and walking over to the Congress' side. However, the party's hopes run high with the Dalits, especially the Muslim-Dalit population, of the region.&nbsp;

Although an INC candidate, traditionally, has been the weakest in the electoral fight in Amroha, it won't be a surprise if Sachin Chaudhary manages to snatch the constituency away for Congress this general election. He is the lone Dalit candidate and has age on his side, however, it must not be overlooked that he is set for a battle against much more experienced and established opponents.

Under the SP-BSP alliance, Mayawati's party will be contesting in 38 Lok Sabha seats of the total 80 seats while Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party will fight in 37 seats with three seats going to Chaudhary Ajit Singh's Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). The alliance has decided not to fight for Congress strongholds in Raebareli and Amethi.&nbsp;

Amroha will go polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 18. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha.

As many as eight Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be up for a tight contest in the second phase of general elections on April 18. One of the key constituencies which will brave the electoral battle this Thursday is Amroha. What makes the contest in Amroha interesting is the fact that the result here, time and again, defies any set pattern. While the seat currently rests with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 2009 Rashtriya Lok Dal's Devendra Nagpal had registered a victory here. In 2004, the constituency went to an independent candidate, whereas Mayawati's BSP swept the polls in 1999. Caste factor The caste factor turns around the tables almost every time in Amroha, making it nearly impossible to predict the verdict here. The region, although dominated by Muslims, also sees considerable numbers of Jats - a double-edged sword, strong enough to swing results. Dalits also enjoy a sizeable presence, especially in the rural areas. BJP versus Mahagathbandhan? This time around, there seems to be a direct contest between the BJP and the Mahagathbandhan. BJP's incumbent MP Kanwar Singh is set to lock horns with Danish Ali, Janata Dal (S) ex-general secretary who is fighting on a BSP ticket. Congress had earlier given a ticket to BSP-turncoat Rashid Alvi but later decided to field Sachin Chaudhary. Congress' weak report card Interestingly, the seat has never fallen into Congress' kitty after 1984 when Ram Pal Singh won from the constituency. Since then, the electoral battle here has been largely alternating. What's at stake? Of late, the saffron party has been facing a negative sentiment from the region with the local Gujjar community expressing dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Kanwar Singh. Dalit Muslim polarization may negatively affect BJP's prospects. BSP may suffer because of its former MP Rashid Alvi switching camps and walking over to the Congress' side. However, the party's hopes run high with the Dalits, especially the Muslim-Dalit population, of the region. Although an INC candidate, traditionally, has been the weakest in the electoral fight in Amroha, it won't be a surprise if Sachin Chaudhary manages to snatch the constituency away for Congress this general election. He is the lone Dalit candidate and has age on his side, however, it must not be overlooked that he is set for a battle against much more experienced and established opponents. Under the SP-BSP alliance, Mayawati's party will be contesting in 38 Lok Sabha seats of the total 80 seats while Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party will fight in 37 seats with three seats going to Chaudhary Ajit Singh's Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). The alliance has decided not to fight for Congress strongholds in Raebareli and Amethi. Amroha will go polls in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 18. The results will be declared on May 23.

Second phase polls: BJP, Mahagathbandhan set to lock horns in Uttar Pradesh's Amroha

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!"

"An alliance between the Congress and&nbsp;AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
An alliance between the Congress &amp; AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this. 
 
But, Mr Kejriwal has done yet another U turn! 
 
Our doors are still open, but the clock is running out. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbAAPkiBaari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbAAPkiBaari</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1117764561459802112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that he is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-do-whatever-is-needed-to-save-country-from-modi-amit-shah-arvind-kejriwal-on-alliance-with-congress-210374">ready to do anything</a> to save the country from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji," while referring to an alliance with the Congress in Delhi.

"Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted.&nbsp;

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PC Chacko, Congress Delhi In-charge: AAP is suggesting alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi. Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done.... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states. <a href="https://t.co/oXVSR9URsu">pic.twitter.com/oXVSR9URsu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117792086684647425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-refused-to-forge-alliance-with-aap-for-lok-sabha-polls-arvind-kejriwal-207181">Kejriwal had said that Rahul Gandhi has refused to forge an alliance with the AAP</a> for the Lok Sabha polls in the national capital.

Talking to reporters at the airport in Visakhapatnam, the AAP leader said he had met Gandhi recently and the Congress leader had refused to join hands with the AAP, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Asked about Congress' Delhi unit president Sheila Dikshit's remarks that Kejriwal never approached her for an alliance, the chief minister said, "We have met Rahul Gandhi. Dikshit is not that important leader".

 
&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday tweeted out saying that although he is ready for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party and can give 4 Lok Sabha seats for the party, "Mr Kejriwal has done another U turn!" "An alliance between the Congress and AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this," Gandhi said in a tweet. He added that Congress' door for an alliance with the AAP in Delhi is still open, "but the clock is running out". An alliance between the Congress & AAP in Delhi would mean the rout of the BJP. The Congress is willing to give up 4 Delhi seats to the AAP to ensure this. But, Mr Kejriwal has done yet another U turn! Our doors are still open, but the clock is running out. #AbAAPkiBaari — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 15, 2019 × Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that he is ready to do anything to save the country from "Modi ji and Amit Shah ji," while referring to an alliance with the Congress in Delhi. "Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted. PC Chacko, Congress Delhi In-charge: AAP is suggesting alliance on 18 seats beyond Delhi. Let us come together in Delhi first. Rahul ji said our doors are open, it should be done.... Whatever decision is reached in one state cannot be replicated in the same way in other states. pic.twitter.com/oXVSR9URsu — ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2019 × Earlier in the month, Kejriwal had said that Rahul Gandhi has refused to forge an alliance with the AAP for the Lok Sabha polls in the national capital. Talking to reporters at the airport in Visakhapatnam, the AAP leader said he had met Gandhi recently and the Congress leader had refused to join hands with the AAP, news agency PTI reported. Asked about Congress' Delhi unit president Sheila Dikshit's remarks that Kejriwal never approached her for an alliance, the chief minister said, "We have met Rahul Gandhi. Dikshit is not that important leader".

'Time's running out; ready to give 4 seats,' says Rahul Gandhi on alliance with AAP

Reacting sharply to a scuffle between Congress workers and BJP sympathisers earlier today, actor-turned-politician Urmila Matondkar claimed that there is a threat to her life and she requires protection from the police.

Speaking to ANI after the scuffle that took place during her roadshow at Boriwali, Matondkar said, "It is being done to create fear. It is just beginning, it will take a violent turn. I have asked for police protection. There's a threat to my life, I have filed a complaint."

Talking about the scuffle that happened earlier in the day, Matondkar said, "We were peacefully addressing people and from nowhere 15-20 people came and started raising slogans in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Initially, I didn't react to it and thought these kinds of things keep happening. But they all started making vulgar actions and started dancing. They were trying to intimidate women at the back. They were moving forward towards the direction where my vehicle was standing. Because of this, our people had to intervene and asked them to stop doing this. A clash then broke out between them and they even hit some women."

She also said that she has filed a police complaint on today's incident. Matondkar has been fielded by Congress from Mumbai (North) constituency.

Earlier in the day, when Matondkar was holding a roadshow near a railway station, some onlookers started raising pro-Modi slogans.

The sloganeering was countered by 'Chowkidar Chor hai'&nbsp;slogans by Congress supporters.

A scuffle subsequently broke out between the two groups. In a video of the incident, Congress supporters can be seen running towards people raising pro-Modi slogans and roughing up a few of them.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Reacting sharply to a scuffle between Congress workers and BJP sympathisers earlier today, actor-turned-politician Urmila Matondkar claimed that there is a threat to her life and she requires protection from the police.

Reacting sharply to a scuffle between Congress workers and BJP sympathisers earlier today, actor-turned-politician Urmila Matondkar claimed that there is a threat to her life and she requires protection from the police. Speaking to ANI after the scuffle that took place during her roadshow at Boriwali, Matondkar said, "It is being done to create fear. It is just beginning, it will take a violent turn. I have asked for police protection. There's a threat to my life, I have filed a complaint." Talking about the scuffle that happened earlier in the day, Matondkar said, "We were peacefully addressing people and from nowhere 15-20 people came and started raising slogans in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Initially, I didn't react to it and thought these kinds of things keep happening. But they all started making vulgar actions and started dancing. They were trying to intimidate women at the back. They were moving forward towards the direction where my vehicle was standing. Because of this, our people had to intervene and asked them to stop doing this. A clash then broke out between them and they even hit some women." She also said that she has filed a police complaint on today's incident. Matondkar has been fielded by Congress from Mumbai (North) constituency. Earlier in the day, when Matondkar was holding a roadshow near a railway station, some onlookers started raising pro-Modi slogans. The sloganeering was countered by 'Chowkidar Chor hai' slogans by Congress supporters. A scuffle subsequently broke out between the two groups. In a video of the incident, Congress supporters can be seen running towards people raising pro-Modi slogans and roughing up a few of them.

Threat to my life, have asked for protection: Urmila Matondkar

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.

"By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here.

"For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked.

The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

"On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said.

Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side.

Congress not fielding candidates in all the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of accepting defeat even before the start of the elections, said Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani on Monday and added that the voters of Amethi should, therefore, side with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to stay on the winning side. "By fighting in just approximately 20 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, Congress leaders have themselves accepted they don't have the strength to fight and win in the state. Why then should you side with the Congress, come and vote for BJP," said Irani at an election rally here. "For 15 years the Amethi MP has stayed away from his constituency, neither has he spoken on behalf of Amethi in the Parliament. Had it not been necessary to file nomination papers and organise election campaigns, he would never have set foot in this area. Absent from the constituency, silent in the Parliament, of what use is such a leader," she asked. The BJP leader also promised that if she wins from Amethi, she will shift base to the region to stay in touch and help the residents of her electorate, unlike Congress president Rahul Gandhi. "On May 6 if you come out of your houses and vote in favour of BJP, I promise you I will be here on May 24 accepting your wishes. I will also take up a house in Amethi and stay in your midst for the years to come," she said. Amethi will see polling on May 6 in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Not fighting on all seats in UP sign of Congress accepting defeat: Smriti Irani

Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal Sunday said the Congress party's promise of a minimum income scheme for poor "is a "disaster" in its design itself and could lead to another "scam" as selection of beneficiaries would be full of corruption.

Goyal said he feels it will not be possible to implement this scheme as there is no data for income and salary levels and the Congress promise will "burst like a balloon".

Congress has promised to deposit Rs 72,000 annually into the bank accounts of 20 per cent of the poorest people across the country if it comes to power.&nbsp;

While the Congress leaders and its president Rahul Gandhi have been saying the proposed scheme, which the party has named 'Nyay', has got a huge traction among the voters, the BJP has termed it totally impractical and against economic prudence.

In an interview to PTI, Goyal said, "From the perspective of economic and financial prudence, obviously it is a disaster. I believe that it is near impossible because there is no data of salary and income levels of people.&nbsp;

"And, selection of people (beneficiaries) will be full of corruption and it could become a scam by itself, adding to the several scams that the Congress is famous for," Goyal said.

Attacking the opposition party, the Minister of Railways and Coal said the Congress still seems to be in its old mindset where they believed mere slogans can help them "fool the people", but they should know that people now cannot be fooled by fancy slogans.

"For three generations, their leaders have offered big promises but delivered below-average performance laced with corruption. The people of India are smart and will not be taken in by such untruths anymore, and certainly not by fancy slogans and big promises," Goyal said.

The BJP leader said the Modi government, on the other hand, is working for sustainable development of the country and is committed to a better future for the 130 crore Indians by making them self-reliant self-sufficient and living life of dignity.

"For us, it is the race to the top where everybody is aspiring to go up. For Congress, it is race to the bottom where everybody is forced to go down," he said.

Asked about the issue of unemployment, Goyal said India is the fastest growing economy in the world now and is poised to become the world's fifth largest economy and this cannot happen without generating work.

The opposition parties have been attacking the government on the issue of unemployment, alleging job losses and lack of sufficient employment for the youth.

"You cannot become the world's fastest-growing economy and the sixth largest economy without work being generated. Jobs are being created,"&nbsp;Goyal countered.

He said the BJP has promised to invest Rs 100 lakh crore in infrastructure over the next five years which will lead to further generation of employment and one-third of the capital is expected to be utilised for paying salaries to workers.

"We have announced that Rs 100 lakh crore will be invested in infrastructure and our estimates show that one-third will go into paying salary and wages to different forms of human labour, including direct and indirect," Goyal added.

Talking about the Modi government and its achievements, Goyal said the government has changed the mindset of the country from one of weakness to one of strength and there has been a paradigm shift in the way India works.

He said the country and its people have become aspirational and do not accept the 'Chalta Hai' attitude anymore.&nbsp;

Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal Sunday said the Congress party's promise of a minimum income scheme for poor "is a "disaster" in its design itself and could lead to another "scam" as selection of beneficiaries would be full of corruption.

Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal Sunday said the Congress party's promise of a minimum income scheme for poor "is a "disaster" in its design itself and could lead to another "scam" as selection of beneficiaries would be full of corruption. Goyal said he feels it will not be possible to implement this scheme as there is no data for income and salary levels and the Congress promise will "burst like a balloon". Congress has promised to deposit Rs 72,000 annually into the bank accounts of 20 per cent of the poorest people across the country if it comes to power. While the Congress leaders and its president Rahul Gandhi have been saying the proposed scheme, which the party has named 'Nyay', has got a huge traction among the voters, the BJP has termed it totally impractical and against economic prudence. In an interview to PTI, Goyal said, "From the perspective of economic and financial prudence, obviously it is a disaster. I believe that it is near impossible because there is no data of salary and income levels of people. "And, selection of people (beneficiaries) will be full of corruption and it could become a scam by itself, adding to the several scams that the Congress is famous for," Goyal said. Attacking the opposition party, the Minister of Railways and Coal said the Congress still seems to be in its old mindset where they believed mere slogans can help them "fool the people", but they should know that people now cannot be fooled by fancy slogans. "For three generations, their leaders have offered big promises but delivered below-average performance laced with corruption. The people of India are smart and will not be taken in by such untruths anymore, and certainly not by fancy slogans and big promises," Goyal said. The BJP leader said the Modi government, on the other hand, is working for sustainable development of the country and is committed to a better future for the 130 crore Indians by making them self-reliant self-sufficient and living life of dignity. "For us, it is the race to the top where everybody is aspiring to go up. For Congress, it is race to the bottom where everybody is forced to go down," he said. Asked about the issue of unemployment, Goyal said India is the fastest growing economy in the world now and is poised to become the world's fifth largest economy and this cannot happen without generating work. The opposition parties have been attacking the government on the issue of unemployment, alleging job losses and lack of sufficient employment for the youth. "You cannot become the world's fastest-growing economy and the sixth largest economy without work being generated. Jobs are being created," Goyal countered. He said the BJP has promised to invest Rs 100 lakh crore in infrastructure over the next five years which will lead to further generation of employment and one-third of the capital is expected to be utilised for paying salaries to workers. "We have announced that Rs 100 lakh crore will be invested in infrastructure and our estimates show that one-third will go into paying salary and wages to different forms of human labour, including direct and indirect," Goyal added. Talking about the Modi government and its achievements, Goyal said the government has changed the mindset of the country from one of weakness to one of strength and there has been a paradigm shift in the way India works. He said the country and its people have become aspirational and do not accept the 'Chalta Hai' attitude anymore.

Goyal says Congress 'Nyay' scheme recipe for scam, may burst like balloon

Three months after the surprise political debut of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/attempt-being-made-to-destroy-the-constitution-priyanka-gandhi-210337">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a>, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters?

She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-govt-lamented-after-terror-attacks-we-killed-terrorists-in-their-home-pm-modi-210390">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> from his home constituency, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-decision-yet-on-priyanka-gandhi-contesting-from-varanasi-rajeev-shukla-208559">Varanasi</a>, this Lok Sabha polls.

In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday.

As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet.

Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature.&nbsp;

Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh

Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-constituency-to-watch-out-for-this-election-207981">Varanasi goes to polls on May 19</a>.&nbsp;

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls.

Three months after the surprise political debut of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, does the Congress have another surprise in store for its supporters? She debuted as the AICC general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh East and now speculations are rife that she might be pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his home constituency, Varanasi, this Lok Sabha polls. In fact, the Congress itself is indirectly fuelling the rumours by refraining from announcing its candidate for Varanasi. The constituency failed to feature in the list of seats in Uttar Pradesh for which the party declared its nominees on Saturday. As for Priyanka, she too hasn't denied contesting polls - not yet. Reports of the Congress cadre requesting Priyanka to contest from the state have been doing the rounds for weeks now but the Congress leadership has remained tight-lipped about any speculation over Priyanka’s candidature. Remember, apart from Varanasi, the Congress is yet to name its candidate from Lucknow, from where the BJP has fielded its incumbent MP Rajnath Singh Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be pitted against PM Modi this Lok Sabha polls? According to reports, Priyanka has agreed to contest from Varanasi with the final decision pending with the party high command. Varanasi goes to polls on May 19.

Lok Sabha polls: With Congress tight-lipped about Varanasi candidate, speculations pit Priyanka Gandhi against PM Modi in his home constituency

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress alleging that the previous government led by it used to only lament after a terrorist attack but the BJP-led dispensation "killed terrorists inside their home".

Addressing an election rally, the Prime Minister said, "What used to happen earlier was terrorists would come from Pakistan, attack us and the Congress government would only lament before the world that we have been attacked. But in this new India when terrorists attacked Uri, our brave soldiers conducted a surgical strike."

"The second big mistake the terrorists made was in Pulwama after which we killed them in their home through air strikes,`Modi said.

He said, "Only those who have strength are heard in this world. The one who always keeps crying does not get anyone`s attention. Be it the United Nation, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE or Afghanistan, India is being given importance."

Modi said that the capacity to shoot down a satellite was with India for about a decade but the Congress government did not support it.

"However, after our government was formed we immediately gave go-ahead to the project," he said.

He alleged that it is not in the agenda of SP-BSP or Congress to strengthen the country and they only hurl abuses at him.

"Have they ever shared their vision for the country? Did they ever talk about strengthening the country? They have only a one-point agenda and it is to abuse Modi. I have two decades of listening to the abuses and now I am immune to such things," the Prime Minister said.

He said that the Bill against triple talaq will be once again brought in Parliament if his party is elected to power.

Modi also took a jibe at SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati for forming an alliance and said, "The `nephew` has in past made many comments against his `aunt` including saying that she had looted Uttar Pradesh... The nephew has also forgotten the days when the aunt used to advice Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) to go to a mental asylum. The elephant is riding cycle now to target the chowkidar. The real danger is on their identity and hence the past has been forgotten."

Earlier in the day, Modi addressed a rally in Aligarh where he lauded B R Ambedkar for framing the Constitution which has enabled the elevation of individuals from weaker sections to key posts in the country.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress alleging that the previous government led by it used to only lament after a terrorist attack but the BJP-led dispensation "killed terrorists inside their home".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress alleging that the previous government led by it used to only lament after a terrorist attack but the BJP-led dispensation "killed terrorists inside their home". Addressing an election rally, the Prime Minister said, "What used to happen earlier was terrorists would come from Pakistan, attack us and the Congress government would only lament before the world that we have been attacked. But in this new India when terrorists attacked Uri, our brave soldiers conducted a surgical strike." "The second big mistake the terrorists made was in Pulwama after which we killed them in their home through air strikes,`Modi said. He said, "Only those who have strength are heard in this world. The one who always keeps crying does not get anyone`s attention. Be it the United Nation, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE or Afghanistan, India is being given importance." Modi said that the capacity to shoot down a satellite was with India for about a decade but the Congress government did not support it. "However, after our government was formed we immediately gave go-ahead to the project," he said. He alleged that it is not in the agenda of SP-BSP or Congress to strengthen the country and they only hurl abuses at him. "Have they ever shared their vision for the country? Did they ever talk about strengthening the country? They have only a one-point agenda and it is to abuse Modi. I have two decades of listening to the abuses and now I am immune to such things," the Prime Minister said. He said that the Bill against triple talaq will be once again brought in Parliament if his party is elected to power. Modi also took a jibe at SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati for forming an alliance and said, "The `nephew` has in past made many comments against his `aunt` including saying that she had looted Uttar Pradesh... The nephew has also forgotten the days when the aunt used to advice Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) to go to a mental asylum. The elephant is riding cycle now to target the chowkidar. The real danger is on their identity and hence the past has been forgotten." Earlier in the day, Modi addressed a rally in Aligarh where he lauded B R Ambedkar for framing the Constitution which has enabled the elevation of individuals from weaker sections to key posts in the country.

Congress govt lamented after terror attacks, we killed terrorists in their home: PM Modi

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.

Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi.

Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will take place on May 23. 
&nbsp;

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi. Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister joins Congress

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi.

"It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution.

"Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East.

Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution.

Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years.

"He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged.

Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi.

"If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.&nbsp;

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it. Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi. "It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution. "Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East. Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution. Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years. "He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged. Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi. "If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.

Attempt being made to destroy the Constitution: Priyanka Gandhi

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-a-couple-of-days-after-polls-chandrababu-naidu-raises-questions-over-evms-asks-election-commission-to-revert-to-ballot-system-210068"> EVM malfunctioning</a>.

The parties said they would approach&nbsp;the Supreme Court&nbsp;over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand&nbsp;at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs.

"EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said.

Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment.

He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs.

"We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate.&nbsp;

Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, &nbsp;there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs. Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs. "EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment. He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs. "We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged. The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate. Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition parties to approach Supreme Court again to demand verification of 50% votes by paper trails

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mai-bhi-chowkidar-campaign-pm-modi-to-address-thousands-through-video-conference-206897&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiy3KDWv8zhAhUVS48KHSZ0A60QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw12SsvHpS2ILFqTYyvfpASn">NaMo TV</a> be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.&nbsp;

The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately.

Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed.&nbsp;

"As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said.

An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired.&nbsp;

The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said.

After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue.

The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said. The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately. Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed. "As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said. An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired. The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said. After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue. The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Delhi CEO directs BJP to not air content on NaMo TV without certification

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-pm-modi-tweets-16-times-tells-people-to-vote-205453"> Lok Sabha</a> seat on Friday.

"I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers.

Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi.

Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states.

Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow. &nbsp;

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26.

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers. Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi. Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states. Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Narendra Modi lookalike files nomination as independent from Lucknow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi, asking voters to choose between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616">'</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616">imandar</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616"> chowkidar' and '</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616">bhrashtachari</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616">naamdar</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-committed-to-passing-the-triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-pm-modi-209616">"</a>.

Addressing an election rally here to campaign for Ahmednagar and Shirdi Lok Sabha candidates, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-charges-congress-with-tughlaq-road-chunav-ghotala-209560">Modi also said the world</a> has recognised India as a superpower in the last five years.

"Do you remember the previous ten years of the earlier remote-controlled government? Scams and delays in decision- making were the order of the day. You need to now choose between Imandar Chowkidar and Bhrashtachari Naamdar," Modi said.

Reaching out to first-time voters, Modi said,"those born in the 21st century will be voting for the first time. Do you agree with the weak approach of previous governments of compromising national security. Is this acceptable to you?"

"People say India will progress only if Congress is banished," PM Modi said.

Modi hit out at Congress ally National Conference's demand for prime minister's post for Jammu and Kashmir.

"I have no expectation from the Congress since it has stopped thinking about people long ago," he said.

Hitting out at Sharad Pawar, Modi said the NCP president had quit the Congress in the name of the country. "Sharad Pawar, how can you be silent on the two PM demand. Why are you silent? Is this acceptable to you?"

"Your party name is Rashtravadi and still you see the country through foreign lens. Is the name Rashtravadi in your party to fool people," Modi said.

Continuing his tirade against Rahul Gandhi, Modi linked the IT raids on aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, claiming this was "Tughlak road chunavi ghotala" (election scam).

Modi said the Congress needs to be decisively defeated to ensure poverty eradication, modern infrastructure and development of all sections of society.

Modi said there have been no terror strike&nbsp;as the "chowkidar" has instilled fear in minds of perpetrators of terror that he will find them even from hell and punish them.

"Are you happy with policy of killing terrorists in their dens?, PM Modi asked the crowd. "Choose between honest chowkidar and corrupt naamdar," he told the poll rally in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi, asking voters to choose between 'imandar chowkidar' and 'bhrashtachari naamdar".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi, asking voters to choose between 'imandar chowkidar' and 'bhrashtachari naamdar". Addressing an election rally here to campaign for Ahmednagar and Shirdi Lok Sabha candidates, Modi also said the world has recognised India as a superpower in the last five years. "Do you remember the previous ten years of the earlier remote-controlled government? Scams and delays in decision- making were the order of the day. You need to now choose between Imandar Chowkidar and Bhrashtachari Naamdar," Modi said. Reaching out to first-time voters, Modi said,"those born in the 21st century will be voting for the first time. Do you agree with the weak approach of previous governments of compromising national security. Is this acceptable to you?" "People say India will progress only if Congress is banished," PM Modi said. Modi hit out at Congress ally National Conference's demand for prime minister's post for Jammu and Kashmir. "I have no expectation from the Congress since it has stopped thinking about people long ago," he said. Hitting out at Sharad Pawar, Modi said the NCP president had quit the Congress in the name of the country. "Sharad Pawar, how can you be silent on the two PM demand. Why are you silent? Is this acceptable to you?" "Your party name is Rashtravadi and still you see the country through foreign lens. Is the name Rashtravadi in your party to fool people," Modi said. Continuing his tirade against Rahul Gandhi, Modi linked the IT raids on aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, claiming this was "Tughlak road chunavi ghotala" (election scam). Modi said the Congress needs to be decisively defeated to ensure poverty eradication, modern infrastructure and development of all sections of society. Modi said there have been no terror strike as the "chowkidar" has instilled fear in minds of perpetrators of terror that he will find them even from hell and punish them. "Are you happy with policy of killing terrorists in their dens?, PM Modi asked the crowd. "Choose between honest chowkidar and corrupt naamdar," he told the poll rally in Maharashtra.

No terror strike as chowkidar has instilled fear among perpetrators: Modi at poll rally in Maharashtra

An estimated 13.73 per cent voting was recorded in the first three hours of polling that began amid tight security in four Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the first leg of t<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indias-general-election-begins-with-voting-in-first-of-seven-phases-209447">he seven-phased election</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404">Live Lok Sabha polls 2019: Faulty EVMs delay voting in several polling booths in Andhra Pradesh</a>

Few incidents of EVM malfunctioning were reported in some booths under Nawada Lok Sabha constituency, and a cane bomb was found at a polling station in Gaya district before voting began at 7 am.

Polling is underway in the four Lok Sabha seats of Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada and Jamui.

"Polling has, so far, been peaceful in the constituencies," Joint Chief Electoral Officer Pravin Kumar Gupta said.

Before the start of polling, one cane bomb was found at polling station number 9 at Anarban Sulaiya village under Dumariya assembly constituency of Aurangabad Lok Sabha seat.

Voting is currently on at the polling station as the cane bomb has been defused by the bomb squad, Gaya City Superintendent of Police Sushil Kumar said.

Polling will end at 6 pm in most of the booths. In some "sensitive" booths, however, voting will end at 4 pm.

Assembly bypoll for Nawada is also being held along with the Lok Sabha poll on Thursday. A voter turn out of nine per cent has been recorded there till 10 am, the CEO office said.

Bihar will witness a seven-phase polling for its 40 Lok Sabha seat.

The elections which began on April 11 will end on May 19 when the seventh and last phase will be held.

An estimated 13.73 per cent voting was recorded in the first three hours of polling that began amid tight security in four Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the first leg of the seven-phased election.

An estimated 13.73 per cent voting was recorded in the first three hours of polling that began amid tight security in four Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the first leg of the seven-phased election. Live Lok Sabha polls 2019: Faulty EVMs delay voting in several polling booths in Andhra Pradesh Few incidents of EVM malfunctioning were reported in some booths under Nawada Lok Sabha constituency, and a cane bomb was found at a polling station in Gaya district before voting began at 7 am. Polling is underway in the four Lok Sabha seats of Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada and Jamui. "Polling has, so far, been peaceful in the constituencies," Joint Chief Electoral Officer Pravin Kumar Gupta said. Before the start of polling, one cane bomb was found at polling station number 9 at Anarban Sulaiya village under Dumariya assembly constituency of Aurangabad Lok Sabha seat. Voting is currently on at the polling station as the cane bomb has been defused by the bomb squad, Gaya City Superintendent of Police Sushil Kumar said. Polling will end at 6 pm in most of the booths. In some "sensitive" booths, however, voting will end at 4 pm. Assembly bypoll for Nawada is also being held along with the Lok Sabha poll on Thursday. A voter turn out of nine per cent has been recorded there till 10 am, the CEO office said. Bihar will witness a seven-phase polling for its 40 Lok Sabha seat. The elections which began on April 11 will end on May 19 when the seventh and last phase will be held.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Brisk voting in first three hours in Bihar

Polling is underway in the picturesque Nizamabad in Telangana, located 175 kms north-west of Hyderabad. The constituency with beautiful lakes and temples has several hundred villages approximately over 450 which has witnessed large scale farmer discontent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404">Live Lok Sabha polls 2019:&nbsp;Faulty EVMs delay voting in several polling booths in Andhra Pradesh</a>

The constituency assumes significance since Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's daughter&nbsp;Kalvakuntla Kavitha, 41, is seeking another term for the &nbsp;Telangana Rashtra Samithi(TRS) after she won in 2014. She had won from here handsomely five years ago with over &nbsp;170,000 votes beating her nearest Congress rival who won 27,2123 votes.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uxI6x2JByqA" width="560"></iframe>

However, this time it could be different as large scale farmer' ire has overtaken the constituency with over 170 farmers filing their nomination against TRS alleging it has ignored its demands.

Farmers say the TRS has failed to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for turmeric and red jowar (sorghum) greatly hampering their income. The constituency has 443 candidates in the fray which is proving a major headache for the Election Commission which has instructed its officers to use EVMs after the farmers requested that only paper ballots should be used.

Nizamabad has been a Congress stronghold since 1957 when polls were held here for the first time. TDP beat the Congress for the first time in 1991 riding on the NT Rama Rao wave, significantly TPD candidate Gaddam Ganga Reddy won from here thrice in 1991, 1998 and 1999.

There are seven Vidhan Sabha segments which comprise Lok Sabha constituency of Nizamabad. A predominantly agricultural district it depends on state government's support for its development which over the years has become a contentious issue in the district.

Madhu Goud Yaskhi from Congress won the parliamentary elections in 2004 and 2009 during former PM Manmohan Singh's tenure. The formation of Telangana in 2014 helped to tilt the balance in KCR's favour which resulted in her daughter winning in May, 2014 as the state came into being one month later.

Apart from farmers' opposition, Kavitha will be facing the BJP's Shri D. Aravind and Congress's Madhu Yashki Guud&nbsp;

Currently, 12 EVMs are being used in every booth in Nizamabad. Clearly, first-time MP K Kavitha has her task cut out for her in her father's state.

Reports had indicated that some EVMs had developed snags even as several villagers have decided to stay away from voting protesting against the state government's policies.

Authorities have made tight security arrangements for the Lok Sabha constituency since Nizamabad also contains a Naxal belt where polling will close by 4pm.

Parliamentary elections in 17 constituencies will be conducted in just one phase today with the results due to be announced on May 23rd.&nbsp;

Polling is underway in the picturesque Nizamabad in Telangana, located 175 kms north-west of Hyderabad. The constituency with beautiful lakes and temples has several hundred villages approximately over 450 which has witnessed large scale farmer discontent.

Polling is underway in the picturesque Nizamabad in Telangana, located 175 kms north-west of Hyderabad. The constituency with beautiful lakes and temples has several hundred villages approximately over 450 which has witnessed large scale farmer discontent. Live Lok Sabha polls 2019: Faulty EVMs delay voting in several polling booths in Andhra Pradesh The constituency assumes significance since Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's daughter Kalvakuntla Kavitha, 41, is seeking another term for the Telangana Rashtra Samithi(TRS) after she won in 2014. She had won from here handsomely five years ago with over 170,000 votes beating her nearest Congress rival who won 27,2123 votes. However, this time it could be different as large scale farmer' ire has overtaken the constituency with over 170 farmers filing their nomination against TRS alleging it has ignored its demands. Farmers say the TRS has failed to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for turmeric and red jowar (sorghum) greatly hampering their income. The constituency has 443 candidates in the fray which is proving a major headache for the Election Commission which has instructed its officers to use EVMs after the farmers requested that only paper ballots should be used. Nizamabad has been a Congress stronghold since 1957 when polls were held here for the first time. TDP beat the Congress for the first time in 1991 riding on the NT Rama Rao wave, significantly TPD candidate Gaddam Ganga Reddy won from here thrice in 1991, 1998 and 1999. There are seven Vidhan Sabha segments which comprise Lok Sabha constituency of Nizamabad. A predominantly agricultural district it depends on state government's support for its development which over the years has become a contentious issue in the district. Madhu Goud Yaskhi from Congress won the parliamentary elections in 2004 and 2009 during former PM Manmohan Singh's tenure. The formation of Telangana in 2014 helped to tilt the balance in KCR's favour which resulted in her daughter winning in May, 2014 as the state came into being one month later. Apart from farmers' opposition, Kavitha will be facing the BJP's Shri D. Aravind and Congress's Madhu Yashki Guud Currently, 12 EVMs are being used in every booth in Nizamabad. Clearly, first-time MP K Kavitha has her task cut out for her in her father's state. Reports had indicated that some EVMs had developed snags even as several villagers have decided to stay away from voting protesting against the state government's policies. Authorities have made tight security arrangements for the Lok Sabha constituency since Nizamabad also contains a Naxal belt where polling will close by 4pm. Parliamentary elections in 17 constituencies will be conducted in just one phase today with the results due to be announced on May 23rd.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: KCR's daughter Kavitha faces farmers' ire as Nizamabad votes in first phase

Around 14 per cent electorate cast their votes in the first couple of hours of polling in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404">Naxal-hit Bastar Lok Sabha constituency </a>of Chhattisgarh on Thursday.

At some places, there were reports of EVM snags which were being rectified, an election official in the state capital Raipur said.

"Polling in Bastar seat started at 7 am and is going on smoothly. Till 9.30 am, around 14 per cent polling has been registered," he said.

Long queues of voters were seen at several polling booths in the region.

Early in the morning, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-amid-polling-naxals-trigger-ied-blast-in-bastar-district-none-hurt-209449">Naxals detonated an IED</a> (improvised explosive device) in Narayanpur district, which comes under Bastar constituency, police said.

No casualty was reported in the blast.

A thick security blanket, comprising around 80,000 state and paramilitary personnel, was thrown across the constituency to ensure peaceful polling.

Polling in Bastar Lok Sabha constituency's four Assembly segments - Dantewada, Konta, Bijapur and Narayanpur - is being held from 7 am and 3 pm, the official said.

The voting time in the other four Assembly segments - Bastar, Chitrakoot, Kondagaon and Jagdalpur&nbsp; 
- of the constituency is from 7 am and 5 pm, he said.

Seven candidates are in the fray in the seat and as per electoral rolls, there are 13,72,127 voters, including 6,59,824 men, 7,12,261 women and 42 of the third gender.

Of the 1,879 polling booths in the constituency, 741 have been marked as hyper-sensitive and 606 as sensitive in view of the threat of Naxalism.

There is a direct contest between Congress' Dipak Baij and senior BJP leader Baiduram Kashyap.

BJP has never lost the Bastar seat since 1998.

Around 14 per cent electorate cast their votes in the first couple of hours of polling in the Naxal-hit Bastar Lok Sabha constituency of Chhattisgarh on Thursday.

Around 14 per cent electorate cast their votes in the first couple of hours of polling in the Naxal-hit Bastar Lok Sabha constituency of Chhattisgarh on Thursday. At some places, there were reports of EVM snags which were being rectified, an election official in the state capital Raipur said. "Polling in Bastar seat started at 7 am and is going on smoothly. Till 9.30 am, around 14 per cent polling has been registered," he said. Long queues of voters were seen at several polling booths in the region. Early in the morning, Naxals detonated an IED (improvised explosive device) in Narayanpur district, which comes under Bastar constituency, police said. No casualty was reported in the blast. A thick security blanket, comprising around 80,000 state and paramilitary personnel, was thrown across the constituency to ensure peaceful polling. Polling in Bastar Lok Sabha constituency's four Assembly segments - Dantewada, Konta, Bijapur and Narayanpur - is being held from 7 am and 3 pm, the official said. The voting time in the other four Assembly segments - Bastar, Chitrakoot, Kondagaon and Jagdalpur - of the constituency is from 7 am and 5 pm, he said. Seven candidates are in the fray in the seat and as per electoral rolls, there are 13,72,127 voters, including 6,59,824 men, 7,12,261 women and 42 of the third gender. Of the 1,879 polling booths in the constituency, 741 have been marked as hyper-sensitive and 606 as sensitive in view of the threat of Naxalism. There is a direct contest between Congress' Dipak Baij and senior BJP leader Baiduram Kashyap. BJP has never lost the Bastar seat since 1998.

14% polling recorded in Naxal-hit Bastar Lok Sabha constituency

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore.

In the new scam crores of rupees meant for nutrition of poor children and expectant mothers have been seized even as old cases of corruption against it are still on, he told a rally in Assam.

The "naamdari parivar" (famed family) is engaged in corruption and has made it a way a life for which its members are now on bail, but they call the "chowkidar a chor", he said.

"There is a Tughlaq Road in Delhi and there is a bungalow there where a big leader lives. During the last few days, a game involving several crores of rupees is being played. Sack loads of currency notes are being recovered from those people who are connected with this bungalow," he said.

"This is the Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala and Congress indulges in corruption to win elections ... If they do not loot, how will they fight elections?

"It is a sin to vote for such people," Modi said adding Congress has compromised the security of the nation by demanding proof of attack on terrorist camps in Pakistan.

Criticising the Congress for indulging in vote bank politics, Modi said had it wanted they could have solved the problems in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir after the 1971 Indo-Pak war. "But they kept the issues burning deliberately for their vested interests."

Congress allowed infiltration to ensure that their vote bank remained intact.

"But this chowkidar will ensure that infiltration is stopped to protect the interests of the people of Assam and North East ... We will ensure Indo-Bangla border fencing is completed soon, that there are no names of foreigners in the National Register of Citizens and no genuine Indians are left out," he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday slammed the Congress for indulging in corruption and said a new scam "Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala" by it has come to the fore. In the new scam crores of rupees meant for nutrition of poor children and expectant mothers have been seized even as old cases of corruption against it are still on, he told a rally in Assam. The "naamdari parivar" (famed family) is engaged in corruption and has made it a way a life for which its members are now on bail, but they call the "chowkidar a chor", he said. "There is a Tughlaq Road in Delhi and there is a bungalow there where a big leader lives. During the last few days, a game involving several crores of rupees is being played. Sack loads of currency notes are being recovered from those people who are connected with this bungalow," he said. "This is the Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala and Congress indulges in corruption to win elections ... If they do not loot, how will they fight elections? "It is a sin to vote for such people," Modi said adding Congress has compromised the security of the nation by demanding proof of attack on terrorist camps in Pakistan. Criticising the Congress for indulging in vote bank politics, Modi said had it wanted they could have solved the problems in Assam and Jammu and Kashmir after the 1971 Indo-Pak war. "But they kept the issues burning deliberately for their vested interests." Congress allowed infiltration to ensure that their vote bank remained intact. "But this chowkidar will ensure that infiltration is stopped to protect the interests of the people of Assam and North East ... We will ensure Indo-Bangla border fencing is completed soon, that there are no names of foreigners in the National Register of Citizens and no genuine Indians are left out," he added.

PM Modi charges Congress with 'Tughlaq Road Chunav Ghotala'

Indian National Congress: The oldest party of India

Lakhimpur Lok Sabha constituency in north-eastern Assam assumes significance due to its strategic location and economic benefits it now promises&nbsp;to the people in the area.

It is well known for its valuable food resources including rice, tea and sugarcane, however, it was the inauguration of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fighter-jets-can-land-on-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-bogibeel-other-top-facts-186294">Bogibeel bridge with a </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fighter-jets-can-land-on-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-bogibeel-other-top-facts-186294">rail-road</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fighter-jets-can-land-on-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-bogibeel-other-top-facts-186294"> service</a> stretching from Lakhimpur to Dhemaji along the Brahmaputra which has not only changed the atmosphere around the area but it has assumed new political significance.

The importance of the constituency can be gauged from the fact that Rahul Gandhi has already toured the area and addressed a rally well ahead of the first phase polls on April 11th. The Congress president held an election rally on April 3rd in the Congress headquarters meant to boost the morale of the Congress workers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-today-186250">PM Modi who had&nbsp;inaugurated</a> the country's longest bridge back in December during his high profile visit to Guwahati sent out political vibes in the area, a factor which the BJP hopes to leverage on polling day. &nbsp;

Earlier, Lakhimpur district contained several areas of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, however, it was separated from it gradually.

The flourishing district has been an Asom Gana Parishad(AGP) and Congress bastion since the constituency first went to the polls in 1967, however, in a significant shift the BJP under Sarbananda Sonowal had won from here during the Modi wave in 2014 upsetting the AGP-Congress applecart.

AGP this time has aligned with the BJP and decided not to field any&nbsp;candidate in the constituency due to its&nbsp;seat-sharing agreement.

BJP's Sonowal in 2014 had won the seat bagging over 6 lakh votes while beating his nearest Congress rival Ranee Narah quite easily who won just over 3 lakh votes.

This time the BJP has given the ticket to Pradan Baruah, while the Congress has decided to give Dr. Hema Hari Prasanna Pegu a chance to win back the seat.

CPM has decided to fight the seat under Amiya Kumar Handique's leadership and Socialist Unity Centre Of India(Communist) have given Hem Kanta Miri a ticket.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is an important factor in this polls, with the Opposition parties counting on the anti-incumbency factor working against the BJP.

There are over nine lakh electorates in this constituency which hosts several small-scale and handloom factories. The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project(SLHEP) is also being constructed in the area which will allow it to keep its development model chugging away.

The constituency has several new voters, at least 11,000 over the age of 18 who could prove to be the crucial gamechanger in this elections. The results to be declared on May 23rd would be keenly followed due to the economic boost the constituency could provide to the area and to its people.

Lakhimpur Lok Sabha constituency in north-eastern Assam assumes significance due to its strategic location and economic benefits it now promises to the people in the area.

Lakhimpur Lok Sabha constituency in north-eastern Assam assumes significance due to its strategic location and economic benefits it now promises to the people in the area. It is well known for its valuable food resources including rice, tea and sugarcane, however, it was the inauguration of the Bogibeel bridge with a rail-road service stretching from Lakhimpur to Dhemaji along the Brahmaputra which has not only changed the atmosphere around the area but it has assumed new political significance. The importance of the constituency can be gauged from the fact that Rahul Gandhi has already toured the area and addressed a rally well ahead of the first phase polls on April 11th. The Congress president held an election rally on April 3rd in the Congress headquarters meant to boost the morale of the Congress workers. PM Modi who had inaugurated the country's longest bridge back in December during his high profile visit to Guwahati sent out political vibes in the area, a factor which the BJP hopes to leverage on polling day. Earlier, Lakhimpur district contained several areas of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, however, it was separated from it gradually. The flourishing district has been an Asom Gana Parishad(AGP) and Congress bastion since the constituency first went to the polls in 1967, however, in a significant shift the BJP under Sarbananda Sonowal had won from here during the Modi wave in 2014 upsetting the AGP-Congress applecart. AGP this time has aligned with the BJP and decided not to field any candidate in the constituency due to its seat-sharing agreement. BJP's Sonowal in 2014 had won the seat bagging over 6 lakh votes while beating his nearest Congress rival Ranee Narah quite easily who won just over 3 lakh votes. This time the BJP has given the ticket to Pradan Baruah, while the Congress has decided to give Dr. Hema Hari Prasanna Pegu a chance to win back the seat. CPM has decided to fight the seat under Amiya Kumar Handique's leadership and Socialist Unity Centre Of India(Communist) have given Hem Kanta Miri a ticket. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is an important factor in this polls, with the Opposition parties counting on the anti-incumbency factor working against the BJP. There are over nine lakh electorates in this constituency which hosts several small-scale and handloom factories. The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project(SLHEP) is also being constructed in the area which will allow it to keep its development model chugging away. The constituency has several new voters, at least 11,000 over the age of 18 who could prove to be the crucial gamechanger in this elections. The results to be declared on May 23rd would be keenly followed due to the economic boost the constituency could provide to the area and to its people.

First phase polls: BJP counts on Bogibeel bridge to reassert control in Assam's Lakhimpur

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar".

The artists appealed to the people to cast their vote without any pressure and prejudice.

"It is our firm conviction that the continuance of government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the need of the hour. Besides, when challenges like terrorism are before all of us, we need a 'Majboot Sarkar' not a 'Majboor Sarkar' and hence we need the present government to continue," it said.

Among those who have issued the joint statement are Shankar Mahadevan, Triloki Nath Mishra, Koena Mitra, Anuradha Paudwal and Hans Raj Hans.

The joint statement said that during the last five years, India has seen a government which delivered "corruption-free good governance and development-oriented administration".

The joint statement comes a week after more than 600 theatre personalities, including Amol Palekar, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad and Usha Ganguli, had signed a letter asking people to "vote BJP and its allies" out of power, arguing that the idea of India and its constitution are under threat.&nbsp;

The letter, which was issued Thursday evening in 12 languages on the Artist Unite India website, said the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are the "most critical in the history" of the country.

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar".

More than 900 artists, including Pandit Jasraj, Vivek Oberoi and Rita Ganguli, Wednesday issued a statement asking people to vote for the BJP and said the country needs a "Majboot Sarkar" not a "Majboor Sarkar". The artists appealed to the people to cast their vote without any pressure and prejudice. "It is our firm conviction that the continuance of government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the need of the hour. Besides, when challenges like terrorism are before all of us, we need a 'Majboot Sarkar' not a 'Majboor Sarkar' and hence we need the present government to continue," it said. Among those who have issued the joint statement are Shankar Mahadevan, Triloki Nath Mishra, Koena Mitra, Anuradha Paudwal and Hans Raj Hans. The joint statement said that during the last five years, India has seen a government which delivered "corruption-free good governance and development-oriented administration". The joint statement comes a week after more than 600 theatre personalities, including Amol Palekar, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad and Usha Ganguli, had signed a letter asking people to "vote BJP and its allies" out of power, arguing that the idea of India and its constitution are under threat. The letter, which was issued Thursday evening in 12 languages on the Artist Unite India website, said the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are the "most critical in the history" of the country.

After 600 artists issued statements to vote BJP out of power, over 900 urge people to vote for them

The green valley of Koraput located in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/first-phase-lok-sabha-polls-after-pm-modis-rally-bjp-eyes-cooch-behar-in-west-bengal-208675">southern Odisha with over</a> one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat.

While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress.

Koraput, a reserved&nbsp;ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in&nbsp;Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter.

The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD.

This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004.

The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour.

Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress.

Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD.

The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end.

Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong&nbsp;contender would mean a close fight is on the cards.&nbsp;

The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO. Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat. While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress. Koraput, a reserved ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter. The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD. This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004. The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour. Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress. Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD. The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end. Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong contender would mean a close fight is on the cards. The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

First phase polls: BJD, BJP, Congress in fierce fight in Odisha's Koraput

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country".

He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class.

"I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya.

"The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said.

The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others.

Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford.

He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi.

Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience.

"This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman).

"Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close.

Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal.

The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

"Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said.

He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said.

We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted.

"We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Tuesday launched a frontal attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his party has come up with "NYAY" (justice), a reference to the proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, to undo the "anyay" (injustice) done by the Centre. He said the proposed scheme, known by the acronym "NYAY", was a realistic measure that could be implemented without harming the economy or increasing the tax burden on the common people "unlike the boastful promise made by Modi of remitting Rs 15 lakh into the bank accounts of all poor people in the country". He accused Modi of spreading the "canard" that NYAY will be an expensive scheme to implement which the Congress would not find enough funds unless more taxes are imposed on the salaried class. "I promise that the scheme would be implemented no sooner than the party comes to power and we would get the money out of the pockets of people like Anil Ambani, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi the role of whose chowkidar (watchman) Modi has assumed," Gandhi told an election rally in Gaya. "The sum of Rs 72,000 per year promised under NYAY comes to a total of Rs 3.60 lakh over a period of five years. Now you have to make a choice between the lie of Rs 15 lakh and the truth of Rs 3.60 lakh," he said. The Congress president was speaking in the presence of actor-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who recently joined the party after quitting the BJP, and local "Mahagathbandhan" candidate and former Bihar chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, among others. Attacking Modi over his chowkidar claim, Gandhi said the poor cannot hire a watchman, a luxury only the wealthy can afford. He alleged that Modi was a watchmen only to big businessmen like Nirav Modi, Ambani and Choksi. Gandhi's remarks were greeted with chants of "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is the thief) by the audience. "This chant of 'chowkidar chor hai' is reverberating across the country and has replaced the 'ache din aane wale hain' (good days are to come) slogan that Modi gave five years ago. Rattled by this changing political mood, he has come up with yet another rhetoric main bhi chowkidar (Im too a watchman). "Modi should know his cohorts may be with him in this drama but not the farmers, the workers and the unemployed youth," the Congress president said at the rally that concluded just before the campaign for the first phase of polls on April 11 came to a close. Gandhi also scoffed at Modi for his aggressive nationalistic stance during the poll campaign and targeted him over the Rafale deal. The Congress leader said as part of the understanding reached with France under Manmohan Singh the fighter jets were to be manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. "Modi said, no, I am a chowkidar of Anil Ambani and hence the contract would go to his company despite it not having the knowhow. So much for his patriotism," Gandhi said. He claimed farmers who have taken loans live in fear that they may be jailed for defaulting on repayment. This is despite the fact that big-time defaulters have been able to flee the country with outstanding loans of thousands of crores of rupees, he said. We will ensure that no farmer is made to suffer on account of inability to repay loans, Gandhi asserted. "We waived the loans of farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Measures like these and promises like NYAY are just the beginning," Gandhi added. He also reaffirmed his commitment to filling 22 lakh posts lying vacant in government departments.

Our 'NYAY' to undo the 'anyay' of Narendra Modi govt: Rahul Gandhi

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