On its 134th foundation day, the Congress party on Saturday took out a protest rally against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) to convey the message of 'Save Constitution-Save India'&nbsp;to the people.

The leaders were seen carrying flags of the party and placards that read 'Save Constitution-Save India'.

They also raised slogans in support of party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi and against the CAA and NRC.

"We want to bring all things back that Congress had done during its tenure. It is our responsibility to save the constitution. The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party are destroying the Constitution. The Act is not only against the Muslim community but also the poor people of the country," said a Congress leader, who was a part of the demonstration.

The protest rally concluded near the Girgaon beach in the city. Earlier in the day, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi hoisted the tricolour at the party headquarters in Delhi to mark its 134th foundation day.Congress was founded by a British, Allan Octavian Hume, on December 28, 1885.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On its 134th foundation day, the Congress party on Saturday took out a protest rally against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) to convey the message of 'Save Constitution-Save India' to the people.

On its 134th foundation day, the Congress party on Saturday took out a protest rally against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) to convey the message of 'Save Constitution-Save India' to the people. The leaders were seen carrying flags of the party and placards that read 'Save Constitution-Save India'. They also raised slogans in support of party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi and against the CAA and NRC. "We want to bring all things back that Congress had done during its tenure. It is our responsibility to save the constitution. The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party are destroying the Constitution. The Act is not only against the Muslim community but also the poor people of the country," said a Congress leader, who was a part of the demonstration. The protest rally concluded near the Girgaon beach in the city. Earlier in the day, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi hoisted the tricolour at the party headquarters in Delhi to mark its 134th foundation day.Congress was founded by a British, Allan Octavian Hume, on December 28, 1885.

On its foundation day, Congress holds massive protest rally against CAA, NRC in Mumbai

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/congress-culture-dynasty-glue-that-wont-let-go-230733">Congress </a>general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/priyanka-gandhi-vadras-ganga-yatra-and-triumph-of-soft-hindutva-204136">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> will be in Lucknow for two days- December 27 and 28 to take part in the events on the occasion of the party's 135th foundation day.

She is likely to reach Uttar Pradesh's capital city on Friday evening.

During her stay, Priyanka will attend the 135th foundation day function of the party tomorrow.

At 12:30 pm on Saturday, Vadra will hold a meeting with the advisory council and strategists. On the same evening, she will attend the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) meeting.

The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885, 28 years after the first war of Indian Independence in 1857, in order to form a platform for civil and political dialogue among Indians.

This will be the 135th foundation day of the oldest party&nbsp;the Congress in the country.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be in Lucknow for two days- December 27 and 28 to take part in the events on the occasion of the party's 135th foundation day.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be in Lucknow for two days- December 27 and 28 to take part in the events on the occasion of the party's 135th foundation day. She is likely to reach Uttar Pradesh's capital city on Friday evening. During her stay, Priyanka will attend the 135th foundation day function of the party tomorrow. At 12:30 pm on Saturday, Vadra will hold a meeting with the advisory council and strategists. On the same evening, she will attend the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) meeting. The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885, 28 years after the first war of Indian Independence in 1857, in order to form a platform for civil and political dialogue among Indians. This will be the 135th foundation day of the oldest party the Congress in the country.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to celebrate Congress' 135th foundation day in Lucknow

The Congress party on Wednesday paid tribute to late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

"Tributes to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary," Congress tweeted along with a picture of the late leader.

Congress leader and Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also paid tribute to Vajpayee.

"My tributes to the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary. Atal Ji had extremely cordial and warm relations with all irrespective of their party affiliations and treated them equally without any prejudice. May his vision always guide us all," Singh said on Twitter.

Born on December 25, 1924, in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior, Vajpayee was an active member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He was among the founding members of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh.

Known for his oratory, he was a member of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, representing Lucknow from the Lower House from 1991 to 2009.

Vajpayee was one of the several leaders who were jailed during the Emergency imposed by then prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.

The veteran leader, who led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government from 1998-2004, was the first-ever person from the BJP to become the Prime Minister. He served as Prime Minister thrice -- briefly in 1996, from 1998-1999 and then for a full five-year term between 1999 and 2004.&nbsp;

The Congress party on Wednesday paid tribute to late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the occasion of his birth anniversary. "Tributes to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary," Congress tweeted along with a picture of the late leader.

The Congress party on Wednesday paid tribute to late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the occasion of his birth anniversary. "Tributes to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary," Congress tweeted along with a picture of the late leader. Congress leader and Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also paid tribute to Vajpayee. "My tributes to the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary. Atal Ji had extremely cordial and warm relations with all irrespective of their party affiliations and treated them equally without any prejudice. May his vision always guide us all," Singh said on Twitter. Born on December 25, 1924, in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior, Vajpayee was an active member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He was among the founding members of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. Known for his oratory, he was a member of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, representing Lucknow from the Lower House from 1991 to 2009. Vajpayee was one of the several leaders who were jailed during the Emergency imposed by then prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. The veteran leader, who led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government from 1998-2004, was the first-ever person from the BJP to become the Prime Minister. He served as Prime Minister thrice -- briefly in 1996, from 1998-1999 and then for a full five-year term between 1999 and 2004.

Congress pays tribute to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee on birth anniversary

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday.

Earlier, the party had decided to hold the protest on Sunday, December 22.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Congress to now hold a 'dharna' at Raj Ghat, on December 23, against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalRegisterOfCitizens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalRegisterOfCitizens</a>. <a href="https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR">https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1208425449941950466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, the 'dharna' will take at Delhi's Raj Ghat in the presence of Congress party interim president Sonia Gandhi and former chief Rahul Gandhi.

Meanwhile, the BJP has decided to launch a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-to-launch-massive-campaign-to-counter-anti-caa-narrative-over-250-press-meets-100-rallies-planned-269487">massive communication campaign</a> to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

"The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters on Saturday.

He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday.

Congress party on Saturday postponed its schedule to hold a 'dharna' against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to Monday. Earlier, the party had decided to hold the protest on Sunday, December 22. Delhi: Congress to now hold a 'dharna' at Raj Ghat, on December 23, against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct and #NationalRegisterOfCitizens. https://t.co/XwC3SPu7RR — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × As per reports, the 'dharna' will take at Delhi's Raj Ghat in the presence of Congress party interim president Sonia Gandhi and former chief Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, the BJP has decided to launch a massive communication campaign to allay the public fears and apprehensions of over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. "The BJP will reach out to over three crore families. We will organise press conferences at over 250 places in the next 10 days. In addition, over 1,000 rallies will be held to clear the air over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to bust the myth created by the opposition," BJP general secretary Bhupender Yadav told the reporters on Saturday. He said that the party will counter the "lies" of opposition parties including that of the Congress over the provisions of the new law through effective communication, news agency ANI reported. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress to hold 'dharna' against CAA, NRC at Raj Ghat on Monday

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) national president Mayawati on Sunday slammed the Congress party for supporting Shiv Sena even though it supported the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and is opposing Rahul Gandhi's remark on Savarkar.

In a series of tweets, Mayawati urged Congress to clarify their stand on the matter.

"Shiv Sena still stands on its agenda. They supported the Central government on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and now they are intolerant of Congress'&nbsp;attitude towards Savarkar. But the Congress is still supporting Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. So is it if not the double standard of the Congress?" the BSP chief said on Twitter.

"Therefore, Congress must clarify their position on the matter. Otherwise, it will only be considered a drama to divert the people's attention from the weakness of their own party," she added.

Mayawati's comment comes a day after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, "My name is not Rahul Savarkar, it is Rahul Gandhi, and I will never apologise for speaking the truth".

He was responding to the BJP leaders demanding an apology for his earlier "Rape in India" remark.

After Gandhi's remark on Savarkar, Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut had said, "we respect Pandit Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi, you don't insult Savarkar."

The Shiv Sena had also supported the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, in the Lok Sabha. However, they had staged a walkout in the Upper House of the Parliament before the voting on the Bill.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) national president Mayawati on Sunday slammed the Congress party for supporting Shiv Sena even though it supported the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and is opposing Rahul Gandhi's remark on Savarkar.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) national president Mayawati on Sunday slammed the Congress party for supporting Shiv Sena even though it supported the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and is opposing Rahul Gandhi's remark on Savarkar. In a series of tweets, Mayawati urged Congress to clarify their stand on the matter. "Shiv Sena still stands on its agenda. They supported the Central government on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and now they are intolerant of Congress' attitude towards Savarkar. But the Congress is still supporting Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. So is it if not the double standard of the Congress?" the BSP chief said on Twitter. "Therefore, Congress must clarify their position on the matter. Otherwise, it will only be considered a drama to divert the people's attention from the weakness of their own party," she added. Mayawati's comment comes a day after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, "My name is not Rahul Savarkar, it is Rahul Gandhi, and I will never apologise for speaking the truth". He was responding to the BJP leaders demanding an apology for his earlier "Rape in India" remark. After Gandhi's remark on Savarkar, Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut had said, "we respect Pandit Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi, you don't insult Savarkar." The Shiv Sena had also supported the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, in the Lok Sabha. However, they had staged a walkout in the Upper House of the Parliament before the voting on the Bill.

Double standards: Mayawati slams Congress for supporting Shiv Sena

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prashad said Congress'&nbsp;'Bharat Bachao Rally'&nbsp;on Friday was an attempt to highlight Rahul Gandhi's leadership.

"That was not Bharat Bachao Rally but Rahul jamao rally. After continuous failure, Congress again tried to launch Rahul Gandhi," Prasad told reporters.

Earlier, Prasad's colleague Prakash Javadekar said that the rally was not organised to save the country, but was aimed at saving the Gandhi family.

Organised at Delhi's historic Ramlila Ground, Congress leaders launched a scathing attack on the government questioning it over the state of the economy, women safety and accused of attacking the values enshrined in the Constitution.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prashad said Congress' 'Bharat Bachao Rally' on Friday was an attempt to highlight Rahul Gandhi's leadership. "That was not Bharat Bachao Rally but Rahul jamao rally.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prashad said Congress' 'Bharat Bachao Rally' on Friday was an attempt to highlight Rahul Gandhi's leadership. "That was not Bharat Bachao Rally but Rahul jamao rally. After continuous failure, Congress again tried to launch Rahul Gandhi," Prasad told reporters. Earlier, Prasad's colleague Prakash Javadekar said that the rally was not organised to save the country, but was aimed at saving the Gandhi family. Organised at Delhi's historic Ramlila Ground, Congress leaders launched a scathing attack on the government questioning it over the state of the economy, women safety and accused of attacking the values enshrined in the Constitution.

Congress rally an attempt to highlight Rahul Gandhi's leadership: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-holds-meeting-with-up-congress-leaders-to-discuss-bharat-bachao-rally-preparations-266589">Priyanka Gandhi </a>slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. &nbsp;

Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible".

The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed.&nbsp;

"I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

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PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear &amp; lies even in these circumstances, &amp; stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. <a href="https://t.co/KHXyiYrRHA">pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205745009980362753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. &nbsp;

Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.&nbsp;

 
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Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible". The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed. "I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said. PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear & lies even in these circumstances, & stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2019 × Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months. "Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.

Priyanka Gandhi slams BJP government on economy, Citizenship Bill

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand.

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Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's 'Rape in India' remark <a href="https://t.co/HFMX24N3eo">pic.twitter.com/HFMX24N3eo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205368066835509249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Union minister Smriti Irani slammed Gandhi for his remarks against the PM, adding that it is an insult to the nation and an invitation to the rapists. Irani also said that Gandhi should be punished for his remarks.&nbsp;

"This is first time in history that a leader is giving a clarion call that Indian women should be raped. Is this Rahul Gandhi's message to the people of the country?" Irani said.&nbsp;

A group of leaders in the Rajya Sabha sloganeered "Rahul Gandhi maafi maango (Rahul Gandhi apologise)".&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu urged the members to maintain decorum and added that a member's name cannot be taken who is not a part of the house, referring to Gandhi. However, the House was later adjourned.&nbsp;

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Few MPs in Rajya Sabha raise slogans of 'Rahul Gandhi maafi maango' over Rahul Gandhi's 'rape in India' remark; Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu says, "you cannot take the name of a person who is not a member of this House. No body has the business to disturb the House". <a href="https://t.co/Ojp2BthDBO">pic.twitter.com/Ojp2BthDBO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205366675421315072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Gandhi had also said that the international community ridicules India and the country is known as the "rape capital" of the world.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand.

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) adjourned on Friday after an uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taking a dig at the rising incidents of rapes in India, Senior Congress leader Gandhi on Thursday said that the prime minister talked about 'Make in India' but nowadays wherever you look, it is 'Rape in India' in a rally in Jharkhand. Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's 'Rape in India' remark pic.twitter.com/HFMX24N3eo — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × Union minister Smriti Irani slammed Gandhi for his remarks against the PM, adding that it is an insult to the nation and an invitation to the rapists. Irani also said that Gandhi should be punished for his remarks. "This is first time in history that a leader is giving a clarion call that Indian women should be raped. Is this Rahul Gandhi's message to the people of the country?" Irani said. A group of leaders in the Rajya Sabha sloganeered "Rahul Gandhi maafi maango (Rahul Gandhi apologise)". Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu urged the members to maintain decorum and added that a member's name cannot be taken who is not a part of the house, referring to Gandhi. However, the House was later adjourned. Few MPs in Rajya Sabha raise slogans of 'Rahul Gandhi maafi maango' over Rahul Gandhi's 'rape in India' remark; Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu says, "you cannot take the name of a person who is not a member of this House. No body has the business to disturb the House". pic.twitter.com/Ojp2BthDBO — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × Earlier, Gandhi had also said that the international community ridicules India and the country is known as the "rape capital" of the world.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after uproar over Rahul Gandhi's remark

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-finish-terrorism-in-a-years-time-jitendra-singh-to-wion-245005">Jitendra Singh</a> on Thursday said that Congress is trying to revive its fortunes by stoking protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the North East but it will fail in its attempts.

"The misleading statement made by Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-priyanka-gandhi-to-meet-chidambaram-at-tihar-jail-tomorrow-264716">Rahul Gandhi</a> yesterday regarding the North Eastern region tends to the fact that Congress is trying to fish in the troubled waters of Brahmaputra. They are trying to revive their fortunes through that but it is not going to happen. They tried to leverage the support of certain disgruntled elements of society," the Minister told ANI.

"In certain sections, there is a lack of understanding about the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iuml-to-file-plea-in-supreme-court-against-citizenship-amendment-bill-267775"> Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>. The people who went to protest are our own people. They will be taken care of. The new law is not going to affect anybody adversely. Our elected representatives are trying to allay their concerns," he added.

Assam's capital city Guwahati and its district Dibrugarh have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB) in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

The administration has also suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state - Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup.

The decision came in the wake of protests in the state against the CAB.

Also, the Indian Army said that two columns of Assam Rifles troops have been deployed in Tripura and the third column in Assam is on standby at the request of the civil administration in Tripura and Assam.

The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Jitendra Singh on Thursday said that Congress is trying to revive its fortunes by stoking protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the North East but it will fail in its attempts.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Jitendra Singh on Thursday said that Congress is trying to revive its fortunes by stoking protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in the North East but it will fail in its attempts. "The misleading statement made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi yesterday regarding the North Eastern region tends to the fact that Congress is trying to fish in the troubled waters of Brahmaputra. They are trying to revive their fortunes through that but it is not going to happen. They tried to leverage the support of certain disgruntled elements of society," the Minister told ANI. "In certain sections, there is a lack of understanding about the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The people who went to protest are our own people. They will be taken care of. The new law is not going to affect anybody adversely. Our elected representatives are trying to allay their concerns," he added. Assam's capital city Guwahati and its district Dibrugarh have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB) in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The administration has also suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state - Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup. The decision came in the wake of protests in the state against the CAB. Also, the Indian Army said that two columns of Assam Rifles troops have been deployed in Tripura and the third column in Assam is on standby at the request of the civil administration in Tripura and Assam. The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Congress trying to revive its fortunes by stoking protests against Citizenship (Amendment) Bill : Jitendra Singh

As Jharkhand's Hazaribagh seat prepares to go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-polls-one-dead-3-injured-in-clashes-in-gumla-266803">polls in the third phase</a>, elaborate security arrangements have been kept in place for polling parties to be dispatched from the district headquarters to the respective booths of five constituencies in the district.

Mayur Patel, Superintendent of Police, Hazaribagh told ANI, "All the five constituencies of Hazaribagh are going to poll on December 12. We have made elaborate security arrangements for the peaceful poll process. We are having 1700 booths throughout the district. The overall arrangement for the security has been beefed up."

"We have made all arrangements so that communal atmosphere does not get vitiated. We have talked with religious leaders and taken them into confidence. We are ensuring that the atmosphere remains calm," he added.

Speaking on tackling the Naxal menace in the state during the polls, Patel said, "We have Naxal problems in the bordering areas with Bihar and inter-district borders. We have our intelligence system through which we get regular updates. We have our special teams which will transport the EVMs."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-polls-firing-reported-in-gumlas-sirsa-block-266776">Jharkhand</a>, which has an 81-member Assembly, is undergoing polling in five phases.

The first phase of the election in the state took place on November 30 while the second round was held on December 7.

The voting for the third phase will be conducted on December 12, the fourth phase on December 16, and the fifth and last phase on December 20.

The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

&nbsp;

As Jharkhand's Hazaribagh seat prepares to go to polls in the third phase, elaborate security arrangements have been kept in place for polling parties to be dispatched from the district headquarters to the respective booths of five constituencies in the district.

As Jharkhand's Hazaribagh seat prepares to go to polls in the third phase, elaborate security arrangements have been kept in place for polling parties to be dispatched from the district headquarters to the respective booths of five constituencies in the district. Mayur Patel, Superintendent of Police, Hazaribagh told ANI, "All the five constituencies of Hazaribagh are going to poll on December 12. We have made elaborate security arrangements for the peaceful poll process. We are having 1700 booths throughout the district. The overall arrangement for the security has been beefed up." "We have made all arrangements so that communal atmosphere does not get vitiated. We have talked with religious leaders and taken them into confidence. We are ensuring that the atmosphere remains calm," he added. Speaking on tackling the Naxal menace in the state during the polls, Patel said, "We have Naxal problems in the bordering areas with Bihar and inter-district borders. We have our intelligence system through which we get regular updates. We have our special teams which will transport the EVMs." Jharkhand, which has an 81-member Assembly, is undergoing polling in five phases. The first phase of the election in the state took place on November 30 while the second round was held on December 7. The voting for the third phase will be conducted on December 12, the fourth phase on December 16, and the fifth and last phase on December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

Security in Jharkhand ramped up ahead of December 12 polls

Former Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chidambaram-filed-false-cases-against-me-pm-modi-shah-when-he-was-fm-nitin-gadkari-266193">P Chidambaram</a> on Wednesday appeared as an advocate in the Supreme Court, for the first time after getting bail in the INX Media case.

Chidambaram appeared in the apex court against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-pass-order-on-plea-against-government-formation-in-maharashtra-264525">Kapil Sibal</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-congress-shiv-sena-petition-supreme-court-to-pass-order-tomorrow-1030-am-264329">Abhishek Manu Singhvi</a> in connection with the hearing in a domestic violence and divorce case.

Interestingly, Sibal and Singhvi had represented Chidambaram for getting bail in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/inx-media-case-sc-order-on-p-chidambaram-bail-plea-266109"> INX Media case</a>.

The former Union Finance Minister was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on December 4 after being granted bail and on Thursday he attended the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-to-attend-parliament-from-thursday-karti-chidambaram-266188">Winter Session of Parliament</a>.

The senior Congress leader had on December 4 said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days.

"I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here.

The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to Chidambaram and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case.

The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount.

Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-reaches-parliament-day-after-bail-grant-266336">Foreign Investment Promotion Board</a> (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister.

The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later.

He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

Former Union Minister P Chidambaram on Wednesday appeared as an advocate in the Supreme Court, for the first time after getting bail in the INX Media case. Chidambaram appeared in the apex court against Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi in connection with the hearing in a domestic violence and divorce case.

Former Union Minister P Chidambaram on Wednesday appeared as an advocate in the Supreme Court, for the first time after getting bail in the INX Media case. Chidambaram appeared in the apex court against Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi in connection with the hearing in a domestic violence and divorce case. Interestingly, Sibal and Singhvi had represented Chidambaram for getting bail in the INX Media case. The former Union Finance Minister was released from Delhi's Tihar Jail on December 4 after being granted bail and on Thursday he attended the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament. The senior Congress leader had on December 4 said that he was happy to have stepped out from the jail and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days. "I am happy that I have stepped out and breathing the air of freedom after 106 days," he said after meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence here. The apex court set aside the Delhi High Court's order which had refused to grant bail to Chidambaram and directed him not to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in the case. The court has directed Chidambaram not to give press interviews and make public statements with regard to this case. The court also directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh plus two sureties of the same amount. Chidambaram had sought the bail in a case pertaining to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during his tenure as the Finance Minister. The CBI had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case against him. The Congress leader was first arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on August 21 this year in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later. He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16.

P Chidambaram appears as advocate in Supreme Court for first time after getting bail

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-upset-over-thackerays-move-400-shiv-sena-workers-join-bjp-266344">Shiv Sena</a> on Tuesday targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the spike in the onion prices and the state of the Indian economy.

In its mouthpiece Saamna, the Sena stated, " At present, the economy is slowing down. But the government is not ready to accept. The prices of onion have reached Rs 200 per kilogram. The Finance Minister has also given a very childish answer on this issue. She said I do not eat onion-garlic, so do not ask me about onions. It seems the Prime Minister has no desire to resolve this issue."

"When Modi was not the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/economy-debate-narendra-modis-nda-versus-manmohan-singhs-upa-267271">Prime Minister</a> he had expressed concern over the rising prices of onions. While he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat he had stated that onion is a vital vegetable and added that the vegetable should be kept in the locker. Today, his policy has changed. Modi is now the Prime Minister and the economy is collapsing. Earlier, an unconscious person was cured with the smell of the onion. But that it not even possible now as the edible bulb has disappeared from the market," the editorial read.

"Pandit Nehru (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira Gandhi cannot be held responsible for the apocalyptic destruction of the country`s economy. The present government is not in a mood to listen to the experts. For them, the economy is like a stock market that has become speculative."

The former ally also raked up the issue of demonetization and said, " Very few people make decisions in the Prime Minister`s Office. These decisions are valid for their political and social programmes of the ruling party. But their decisions have marginalised the economic reforms. While taking decisions, such as demonetization, the Finance Minister of the country was kept in dark and also the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India protested, later he was removed."

The Shiv Sena also slammed the Centre for not doing enough to combat the menace of poverty.

"This time in the Global Hunger Index, out of 107 countries India has been positioned at 102. In 2014, India was in the 55th position and in the last five years, poverty has increased in the country while in the neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jhadav-case-islamabad-insists-on-pakistan-representative-as-jhadav-gives-indian-side-power-of-attorney-to-represent-him-267156">Pakistan </a>it has reduced. There no work in the hands of the people and no food in their stomach. This is the condition of the common people of our country but the rulers are calling it development. Our economy is sick, but the Modi government is not ready to accept this either."

The Shiv Sena on Tuesday targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the spike in the onion prices and the state of the Indian economy. In its mouthpiece Saamna, the Sena stated, " At present, the economy is slowing down.

The Shiv Sena on Tuesday targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre over the spike in the onion prices and the state of the Indian economy. In its mouthpiece Saamna, the Sena stated, " At present, the economy is slowing down. But the government is not ready to accept. The prices of onion have reached Rs 200 per kilogram. The Finance Minister has also given a very childish answer on this issue. She said I do not eat onion-garlic, so do not ask me about onions. It seems the Prime Minister has no desire to resolve this issue." "When Modi was not the Prime Minister he had expressed concern over the rising prices of onions. While he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat he had stated that onion is a vital vegetable and added that the vegetable should be kept in the locker. Today, his policy has changed. Modi is now the Prime Minister and the economy is collapsing. Earlier, an unconscious person was cured with the smell of the onion. But that it not even possible now as the edible bulb has disappeared from the market," the editorial read. "Pandit Nehru (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira Gandhi cannot be held responsible for the apocalyptic destruction of the country`s economy. The present government is not in a mood to listen to the experts. For them, the economy is like a stock market that has become speculative." The former ally also raked up the issue of demonetization and said, " Very few people make decisions in the Prime Minister`s Office. These decisions are valid for their political and social programmes of the ruling party. But their decisions have marginalised the economic reforms. While taking decisions, such as demonetization, the Finance Minister of the country was kept in dark and also the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India protested, later he was removed." The Shiv Sena also slammed the Centre for not doing enough to combat the menace of poverty. "This time in the Global Hunger Index, out of 107 countries India has been positioned at 102. In 2014, India was in the 55th position and in the last five years, poverty has increased in the country while in the neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan it has reduced. There no work in the hands of the people and no food in their stomach. This is the condition of the common people of our country but the rulers are calling it development. Our economy is sick, but the Modi government is not ready to accept this either."

Shiv Sena lashes at Modi govt over rising onion prices, state of economy

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Monday said that the party has accepted the public mandate and there is no need to be disheartened even as BJP is set to sweep the Karnataka bypolls.&nbsp;

"We have to agree with the mandate of the voters of these 15 constituencies. We have accepted defeat, I don`t think we have to be disheartened," Shivakumar said.&nbsp;

''It's clear that people have accepted the defectors, the disqualified MLAs of Congress and JD(S),'' he added.

 
The resignation of the 17 rebel MLAs and their subsequent disqualification in July led to the collapse of the Congress-JDS government, paving the&nbsp;way for the BJP to come to power.

In these by-polls, the BJP has fielded 13 disqualified legislators as party candidates from their respective constituencies.

As per Karnataka bypolls results trends by the Election Commission, BJP is leading on 12 seats, Congress is leading on 2 seats and an independent candidate is leading on 1 seat.

The results of these by-polls will seal the fate of the four-month-old B S Yediyurappa-led BJP government in Karnataka.

Counting of the votes commenced at 8 am&nbsp;and results are likely to be declared by this afternoon.

Yediyurappa confidently said that BJP will win at least 13 seats and the government will be "safeguarded".The elections were held for 15 Assembly seats which were left vacant after the legislators resigned in July, triggering the collapse of the Congress-JDS coalition and paving the way for the BJP to come to power.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Monday said that the party has accepted the public mandate and there is no need to be disheartened even as BJP is set to sweep the Karnataka bypolls.

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Monday said that the party has accepted the public mandate and there is no need to be disheartened even as BJP is set to sweep the Karnataka bypolls. "We have to agree with the mandate of the voters of these 15 constituencies. We have accepted defeat, I don`t think we have to be disheartened," Shivakumar said. ''It's clear that people have accepted the defectors, the disqualified MLAs of Congress and JD(S),'' he added. The resignation of the 17 rebel MLAs and their subsequent disqualification in July led to the collapse of the Congress-JDS government, paving the way for the BJP to come to power. In these by-polls, the BJP has fielded 13 disqualified legislators as party candidates from their respective constituencies. As per Karnataka bypolls results trends by the Election Commission, BJP is leading on 12 seats, Congress is leading on 2 seats and an independent candidate is leading on 1 seat. The results of these by-polls will seal the fate of the four-month-old B S Yediyurappa-led BJP government in Karnataka. Counting of the votes commenced at 8 am and results are likely to be declared by this afternoon. Yediyurappa confidently said that BJP will win at least 13 seats and the government will be "safeguarded".The elections were held for 15 Assembly seats which were left vacant after the legislators resigned in July, triggering the collapse of the Congress-JDS coalition and paving the way for the BJP to come to power. (With inputs from ANI)

Karnataka bypolls results: Congress accepts defeat after BJP takes early lead in 12 seats 

BJP is leading in 10 seats while Congress and JD(S) in 2 seats apiece in the Karnataka bypolls, according to Election Commission trends. An independent candidate is leading in one seat.

BJP is leading in 10 seats while Congress and JD(S) in 2 seats apiece in the Karnataka bypolls, according to Election Commission trends. An independent candidate is leading in one seat. The counting of votes polled in the December 5 bypolls began at 8 am in 11 centres and all the results were most likely to be out by the afternoon. The results in the 15 Assembly constituencies will decide the future of the four-month-old BS Yedyurappa-led BJP government. The bypolls were necessitated to fill the vacancies caused by the disqualification of 17 rebel Congress and JD(S) MLAs, whose revolt led to the collapse of the HD Kumaraswamy-led coalition government in July and paved the way for BJP to come to power. Twelve of the 15 seats were held by the Congress and three by JD(S). Bypolls were not held in two seats due to pending litigations in High Court. The outcome of the bypoll, which recorded 67.91% polling, is crucial for BJP, which needs to win at least six seats to remain in the majority. As of now, the BJP has 105 MLAs (including an independent), the Congress 66 and the JD(S) 34. Besides, there is one BSP member, a nominated MLA and the Speaker. All arrangements, including security, have been made for the counting of votes. Prohibitory orders restricting assembly of people around the counting centre and activities that could disturb law and order have been clamped, police said. With exit polls predicting a BJP win in 9 to 12 seats, the ruling party leaders are confident the government would complete its term.

Karnataka bypolls results: BJP leads in 10 seats, Congress & JDS in 2 seats each

Former Karnataka chief minister and senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Monday wrote a letter of resignation to Interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi and expressed his regrets for not being able to give `satisfactory results` in the bypolls held on 15 seats of the state.

"I express my sincere regrets for not being able to give satisfactory results in the recently concluded bye-elections held to Karnataka Legislative Assembly despite my sincere efforts," Siddaramaiah wrote in the letter.

"I deem it necessary to step down as Leader of CLP by taking moral responsibility. I solemnly pledge my loyalty to your esteemed leadership and to the Congress party at all times," he added.

Earlier today Siddaramaiah said that he has also resigned as the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly.

"I have also resigned as the Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Assembly," he said.

Siddaramaiah further said that he will be sending a copy of his resignation to Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal and the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Dinesh Gundu Rao.

"I had expected that the voters might vote against the disqualified MLAs, who sold themselves. I thought they will be punished and I had expected this to happen. My expectations have gone wrong," he added.

According to the latest trends of the by-elections held on 15 assembly constituencies in the state, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 10 seats and is currently leading on two others whereas, Congress has won one and is leading on one other.&nbsp;

Former Karnataka chief minister and senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Monday wrote a letter of resignation to Interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi and expressed his regrets for not being able to give `satisfactory results` in the bypolls held on 15 seats of the state.

Former Karnataka chief minister and senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Monday wrote a letter of resignation to Interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi and expressed his regrets for not being able to give `satisfactory results` in the bypolls held on 15 seats of the state. "I express my sincere regrets for not being able to give satisfactory results in the recently concluded bye-elections held to Karnataka Legislative Assembly despite my sincere efforts," Siddaramaiah wrote in the letter. "I deem it necessary to step down as Leader of CLP by taking moral responsibility. I solemnly pledge my loyalty to your esteemed leadership and to the Congress party at all times," he added. Earlier today Siddaramaiah said that he has also resigned as the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly. "I have also resigned as the Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Assembly," he said. Siddaramaiah further said that he will be sending a copy of his resignation to Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal and the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Dinesh Gundu Rao. "I had expected that the voters might vote against the disqualified MLAs, who sold themselves. I thought they will be punished and I had expected this to happen. My expectations have gone wrong," he added. According to the latest trends of the by-elections held on 15 assembly constituencies in the state, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won 10 seats and is currently leading on two others whereas, Congress has won one and is leading on one other.

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah sends resignation to Sonia Gandhi, takes responsibility of bypoll results

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-extends-his-wishes-to-indian-forces-on-armed-forces-flag-day-266768">Narendra Modi</a> on Monday attacked Congress and JD-S while citing the result trends of Karnataka by-polls and asserted that the people of Karnataka had witnessed corruption and `laxity in development` during tenure of Congress-JD(S) government and hence have voted BJP.

He also said that the by-polls results of this state are a message for all those states where anyone betrays public mandate.

The Prime Minister`s comments came at a time when BJP was leading in as many as nine seats of Karnataka in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bypolls-results-bjp-leads-in-10-seats-congress-jds-leading-in-2-each-267073">by-poll results</a> and has emerged victorious on three.

Speaking at an election rally here, Modi said, "Today people of Karnataka have proved that Congress and JD-S won`t be able to betray them. This is a message for all states of the country that if someone will go against the public mandate and betray people, the citizens will punish them at the first opportunity".

Modi also spoke about the political tussle that the state of Karnataka had witnessed soon after the assembly election results.

"Earlier the people gave mandate to BJP to form the government but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bypolls-results-congress-accepts-defeat-after-bjp-takes-early-lead-in-12-seats-267119">Congress</a> played behind the curtain and managed to stop the BJP government formation. But today people gave them punishment as BJP candidates are either winning or leading in most of the seats in the bye-elections," the Prime Minister said.

"I pay gratitude to the people of the state for choosing stability and development by showing confidence in the BJP," he added.

As of now, the BJP has won three seats and is leading on nine, while the Congress is leading on two seats and an Independent candidate on one.

The elections were held for 15 Assembly seats which were left vacant after the legislators resigned in July, triggering the collapse of the Congress-JDS coalition and paving the way for the BJP to come to power.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday attacked Congress and JD-S while citing the result trends of Karnataka by-polls and asserted that the people of Karnataka had witnessed corruption and `laxity in development` during tenure of Congress-JD(S) government and hence have voted BJP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday attacked Congress and JD-S while citing the result trends of Karnataka by-polls and asserted that the people of Karnataka had witnessed corruption and `laxity in development` during tenure of Congress-JD(S) government and hence have voted BJP. He also said that the by-polls results of this state are a message for all those states where anyone betrays public mandate. The Prime Minister`s comments came at a time when BJP was leading in as many as nine seats of Karnataka in by-poll results and has emerged victorious on three. Speaking at an election rally here, Modi said, "Today people of Karnataka have proved that Congress and JD-S won`t be able to betray them. This is a message for all states of the country that if someone will go against the public mandate and betray people, the citizens will punish them at the first opportunity". Modi also spoke about the political tussle that the state of Karnataka had witnessed soon after the assembly election results. "Earlier the people gave mandate to BJP to form the government but Congress played behind the curtain and managed to stop the BJP government formation. But today people gave them punishment as BJP candidates are either winning or leading in most of the seats in the bye-elections," the Prime Minister said. "I pay gratitude to the people of the state for choosing stability and development by showing confidence in the BJP," he added. As of now, the BJP has won three seats and is leading on nine, while the Congress is leading on two seats and an Independent candidate on one. The elections were held for 15 Assembly seats which were left vacant after the legislators resigned in July, triggering the collapse of the Congress-JDS coalition and paving the way for the BJP to come to power.

Karnataka voted for stability, poll results a message for all states: PM Modi

Lok Sabha Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hyderabad-veterinary-doctors-rape-murder-rocks-parliament-265692">Om Birla</a> on Friday pulled up a BJP member for suggesting who should be called to speak in the House and warned that he will be forced to name members if they make such remarks from their seats.

"You do not direct me who is to be called and who is not to be called. Do not give directions sitting on seats. Stop this system. Otherwise, I will be forced to name you. This will not work," he said apparently pointing towards <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-dented-bjp-in-maharashtra-must-defeat-them-in-jharkhand-chidambaram-266659">BJP</a> member Satish Kumar Gautam.

The Speaker made the remarks after a furor in the House with both Congress and BJP members accusing each other of politicising the incidents of brutality against women.

The Speaker said the House should evolve a code of conduct saying members of the opposition also make objectionable political comments.

He said the members can respond to any kind of serious political comment and if he will expunge if any unparliamentary expression is used.

"Coming to the well after making political comments and then threatening somebody is it appropriate?" he asked.

The Speaker said it might have happened in the past but not when he is the Speaker and the code of conduct should be applicable for five years.

"I want your agreement, cooperation that we run the House with such dignity that the country and the world sees it," he said.

&nbsp;

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday pulled up a BJP member for suggesting who should be called to speak in the House and warned that he will be forced to name members if they make such remarks from their seats.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday pulled up a BJP member for suggesting who should be called to speak in the House and warned that he will be forced to name members if they make such remarks from their seats. "You do not direct me who is to be called and who is not to be called. Do not give directions sitting on seats. Stop this system. Otherwise, I will be forced to name you. This will not work," he said apparently pointing towards BJP member Satish Kumar Gautam. The Speaker made the remarks after a furor in the House with both Congress and BJP members accusing each other of politicising the incidents of brutality against women. The Speaker said the House should evolve a code of conduct saying members of the opposition also make objectionable political comments. He said the members can respond to any kind of serious political comment and if he will expunge if any unparliamentary expression is used. "Coming to the well after making political comments and then threatening somebody is it appropriate?" he asked. The Speaker said it might have happened in the past but not when he is the Speaker and the code of conduct should be applicable for five years. "I want your agreement, cooperation that we run the House with such dignity that the country and the world sees it," he said.

Lok Sabha Speaker pulls up BJP member, warns against advising him who should speak

Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/north-remembers-smriti-iranis-dig-at-rahul-gandhi-after-amethi-win-221254">Smriti Irani</a> on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao.

Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Irani said: "Today, I had a Congress MP chastising me for, he said, I spoke aggressively. In the House, some male MPs came towards me rolling up their sleeves."

"After that, a youth MP said why did Smriti even speak? I am saddened. If speaking is a crime since I am a BJP member, I want to see in Parliament on Monday how is the opposition going to punish me further for speaking in the interest of women," she said.

The matter of alleged misbehavior was raised by Parliamentary Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mukhtar-naqvi-and-pralhad-joshi-take-oath-as-minister-222908">Pralhad Joshi</a> after the House met at 1.30 pm following an adjournment earlier. He said that it was wrong to come in front of a woman MP in a 'threatening position.'

"She was expressing her opinion. The behavior is most uncalled for. Call the two members. They should apologise," he said.

BJP MP Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo said one of the MPs behaved in a threatening way. "He pulled up his sleeve. He came forward," she said.

Meenakshi Lekhi, who was in the Chair, asked Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to talk to the party MPs regarding the apology and adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.

The House earlier witnessed a clash between Congress and BJP members with both accusing each other of politicising the brutal incident in which the Unnao rape survivor was set ablaze.

Irani accused the opposition parties of being quiet "when the rape was used as a political weapon" in West Bengal panchayat elections.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Friday said that she was 'saddened' with the alleged misbehavior of two Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha after she spoke on an attack on a rape survivor in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Irani said: "Today, I had a Congress MP chastising me for, he said, I spoke aggressively. In the House, some male MPs came towards me rolling up their sleeves." "After that, a youth MP said why did Smriti even speak? I am saddened. If speaking is a crime since I am a BJP member, I want to see in Parliament on Monday how is the opposition going to punish me further for speaking in the interest of women," she said. The matter of alleged misbehavior was raised by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi after the House met at 1.30 pm following an adjournment earlier. He said that it was wrong to come in front of a woman MP in a 'threatening position.' "She was expressing her opinion. The behavior is most uncalled for. Call the two members. They should apologise," he said. BJP MP Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo said one of the MPs behaved in a threatening way. "He pulled up his sleeve. He came forward," she said. Meenakshi Lekhi, who was in the Chair, asked Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to talk to the party MPs regarding the apology and adjourned the House till 2.30 pm. The House earlier witnessed a clash between Congress and BJP members with both accusing each other of politicising the brutal incident in which the Unnao rape survivor was set ablaze. Irani accused the opposition parties of being quiet "when the rape was used as a political weapon" in West Bengal panchayat elections.

I am saddened: Smriti Irani on Congress MP's alleged misbehaviour in Lok Sabha

Two days after securing bail in the INX Media case, former finance minister and senior Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-steps-out-from-tihar-jail-after-106-days-of-custody-266263">P Chidambaram </a>lashed out at the BJP government in Centre and Jharkhand, saying that India's economy is in "incompetent hands" and Jharkhand's economy is in "even more incompetent hands".&nbsp;

"India's economy is in incompetent hands and Jharkhand's economy is in even more incompetent hands," Chidambaram said at a press conference ahead of the second phase of assembly elections in Jharkhand. The former finance minister's statements also came at a time when India's quarterly GDP fell to a six-year low to 4.5 per cent when figures were released on November 29.&nbsp;

Chidambaram also mentioned several developmental indicators in order to support his claim that Jharkhand is slipping backwards.&nbsp;

"Jharkhand's growth rate is good two per cent below the national average. Jharkhand has third-lowest per capita income in the country. Unemployment in Jharkhand is fourth highest in the country," he said.

Chidambaram also said that Congress was able to give a "dent" to BJP in Haryana, Maharashtra. "In Haryana, we dented BJP. In Maharashtra, we dented the BJP. In Jharkhand, we must defeat the BJP," Chidambaram said.&nbsp;

Senior Congress&nbsp;leader also said that the election in Jharkhand is an important "turning point" in the ongoing struggle between BJP and "secular, progressive parties". &nbsp;

Taking a jibe at BJP's claim of "double engine growth" implying both state and Centre have BJP governments, Chidambaram said, "Double engine growth is good if the two engines are pulling in the same direction but if they are pulling the opposite direction, this is what will happen."&nbsp;

Chidambaram also said that Congress-Jharkhand Mukti Morcha will not make tall promises and will provide a "competent" government in the state.

We don't want the minister to come and tell you that I don't eat onions. Our ministers will never say that," Chidambaram added.&nbsp;

The five-phase Assembly election in Jharkhand are underway and on November 30, voting for the first round was held. Voting for the next round will be held on December 7 and the elections will be completed on December 20. The results of the state Assembly election will be declared on December 23.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

Two days after securing bail in the INX Media case, former finance minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram lashed out at the BJP government in Centre and Jharkhand, saying that India's economy is in "incompetent hands" and Jharkhand's economy is in "even more incompetent hands".

Two days after securing bail in the INX Media case, former finance minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram lashed out at the BJP government in Centre and Jharkhand, saying that India's economy is in "incompetent hands" and Jharkhand's economy is in "even more incompetent hands". "India's economy is in incompetent hands and Jharkhand's economy is in even more incompetent hands," Chidambaram said at a press conference ahead of the second phase of assembly elections in Jharkhand. The former finance minister's statements also came at a time when India's quarterly GDP fell to a six-year low to 4.5 per cent when figures were released on November 29. Chidambaram also mentioned several developmental indicators in order to support his claim that Jharkhand is slipping backwards. "Jharkhand's growth rate is good two per cent below the national average. Jharkhand has third-lowest per capita income in the country. Unemployment in Jharkhand is fourth highest in the country," he said. Chidambaram also said that Congress was able to give a "dent" to BJP in Haryana, Maharashtra. "In Haryana, we dented BJP. In Maharashtra, we dented the BJP. In Jharkhand, we must defeat the BJP," Chidambaram said. Senior Congress leader also said that the election in Jharkhand is an important "turning point" in the ongoing struggle between BJP and "secular, progressive parties". Taking a jibe at BJP's claim of "double engine growth" implying both state and Centre have BJP governments, Chidambaram said, "Double engine growth is good if the two engines are pulling in the same direction but if they are pulling the opposite direction, this is what will happen." Chidambaram also said that Congress-Jharkhand Mukti Morcha will not make tall promises and will provide a "competent" government in the state. We don't want the minister to come and tell you that I don't eat onions. Our ministers will never say that," Chidambaram added. The five-phase Assembly election in Jharkhand are underway and on November 30, voting for the first round was held. Voting for the next round will be held on December 7 and the elections will be completed on December 20. The results of the state Assembly election will be declared on December 23. (with inputs from ANI)

We dented BJP in Maharashtra, must defeat them in Jharkhand: Chidambaram

US&nbsp;President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-stocks-rattled-after-donald-trump-says-no-deadline-on-us-china-trade-deal-266025"> Donald&nbsp;Trump</a>&nbsp;solicited foreign interference to boost his re-election chances, undermined national security and ordered an "unprecedented" campaign to obstruct Congress,&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;said on Tuesday in a report that lawmakers will use as the basis of any formal&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;charges.

In the 300-page report,&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;leading the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee levelled allegations of sweeping abuse of&nbsp;power&nbsp;by&nbsp;Trump, saying he used US&nbsp;military aid and the prospect of a White House visit to pressure Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/comedian-volodymyr-zelenskiy-leads-presidential-polls-207124">Volodymyr Zelenskiy</a> to undertake investigations that would benefit&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;politically.

Republican&nbsp;Trump, who will stand for re-election in November 2020, denies any wrongdoing and calls the inquiry a hoax.

The heart of the&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;probe&nbsp;is whether&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;misused the&nbsp;power&nbsp;of his office to pressure Ukraine to investigate the son of former Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-unveils-17-trillion-climate-plan-to-end-us-carbon-emissions-by-2050-224374">Joe Biden</a>, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination to face&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;in the 2020 election.

Watch: Donald Trump impeachment hearings set for December 4

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-impeachment-hearings-set-for-dec-4-265791/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The public release of the report is a milestone in a weeks-long investigation into whether&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;should be removed from office over his dealings on Ukraine. It summarizes hours of private testimony and televised hearings in which former government officials described a months-long effort to pressure Ukraine to carry out the investigations sought by&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;in July.

The report's completions hands the process over to the House Judiciary Committee, which will now be responsible for drafting actual articles of&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;should lawmakers decide to move forward. That panel will begin proceedings on Wednesday.

In the report,&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;detail accusations that&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;obstructed their investigation, including refusing to provide documents and testimony from his top advisers, unsuccessful attempts to block career government officials from testifying and intimidation of witnesses.

The&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;argue that "damage will be long-lasting and potentially irrevocable if the President’s ability to stonewall Congress goes unchecked."

Making their case to move forward with&nbsp;impeachment, the report said that "any future President will feel empowered to resist an investigation into their own wrongdoing, malfeasance, or corruption, and the result will be a nation at far greater risk of all three."

In a news conference, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff described&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;as a "president who believes that he is beyond indictment, beyond&nbsp;impeachment, beyond any form of accountability and indeed above the law."

Trump, who is in London for a NATO summit, repeated accusations that&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;are using the&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;process to engage in a politically-motivated attack seeking to undo the results of the 2016 presidential election by removing him from office. Opinion polls show Americans are bitterly divided over&nbsp;impeachment.

White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;had conducted a "one-sided sham process" that had failed to produce any evidence of wrongdoing by&nbsp;Trump.

"This report reflects nothing more than their frustrations. Chairman Schiff’s report reads like the ramblings of a basement blogger straining to prove something when there is evidence of nothing,” Grisham said in a statement.

Lawmakers and the public have heard testimony from current and former officials that military aid was withheld from Ukraine and that a White House meeting with Zelenskiy was conditioned on Kiev announcing a&nbsp;probe&nbsp;into Biden, as well as one into a debunked conspiracy theory about Ukrainian interference in the 2016 US&nbsp;election.

The report was approved by the intelligence panel on a partisan vote on Tuesday evening. The vote was 13-9. It was not immediately clear how each member voted.

If the full House eventually votes to approve formal&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;charges, a trial would be held in the Republican-led US&nbsp;Senate, where a two-thirds majority of those present would be required to convict&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;and remove him from office.

The report also brought to light new allegations by&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;about phone calls between&nbsp;Trump's Republican allies.

The report suggested wrongdoing within the executive branch extended beyond&nbsp;Trump.

The report said many of&nbsp;Trump's "closest subordinates and advisors," including White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Energy Rick Perry aided&nbsp;Trump's efforts to pressure Ukraine and withheld information from Congress. Senior administration officials declined to testify in the proceedings.

The report cited dozens of previously unreported phone records of contact between&nbsp;Trump's personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, Giuliani’s associates, the House Intelligence Committee's top Republican, Devin Nunes, and the White House's Office of Management and Budget.

The phone records were obtained from AT&amp;T, the report says.

An AT&amp;T statement acknowledged the company complied with a request.

"Like all companies, we are required by law to provide information to government and law enforcement agencies," the statement said. "In all cases, we ensure that requests for assistance are valid and that we act in compliance with the law."

A spokesman for Nunes did not respond to a request for comment.

The report also sought to push back at a frequent defence of&nbsp;trump&nbsp;by Republican lawmakers - that the political novice was simply doing what all presidents do.

"The President’s misconduct was not an isolated occurrence, nor was it the product of a naïve president," the report argues.

Republicans, in an advance rebuttal report released on Monday, said&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;had not established that&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;had committed an impeachable offence.

Trump&nbsp;and other Republicans have suggested that Biden and his son Hunter Biden, who was on the board of a Ukrainian energy company, should be investigated for corruption. The Bidens have denied wrongdoing.

US President Donald Trump solicited foreign interference to boost his re-election chances, undermined national security and ordered an "unprecedented" campaign to obstruct Congress, Democrats said on Tuesday in a report that lawmakers will use as the basis of any formal impeachment charges.

US President Donald Trump solicited foreign interference to boost his re-election chances, undermined national security and ordered an "unprecedented" campaign to obstruct Congress, Democrats said on Tuesday in a report that lawmakers will use as the basis of any formal impeachment charges. In the 300-page report, Democrats leading the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee levelled allegations of sweeping abuse of power by Trump, saying he used US military aid and the prospect of a White House visit to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to undertake investigations that would benefit Trump politically. Republican Trump, who will stand for re-election in November 2020, denies any wrongdoing and calls the inquiry a hoax. The heart of the impeachment probe is whether Trump misused the power of his office to pressure Ukraine to investigate the son of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination to face Trump in the 2020 election. Watch: Donald Trump impeachment hearings set for December 4 The public release of the report is a milestone in a weeks-long investigation into whether Trump should be removed from office over his dealings on Ukraine. It summarizes hours of private testimony and televised hearings in which former government officials described a months-long effort to pressure Ukraine to carry out the investigations sought by Trump in July. The report's completions hands the process over to the House Judiciary Committee, which will now be responsible for drafting actual articles of impeachment should lawmakers decide to move forward. That panel will begin proceedings on Wednesday. In the report, Democrats detail accusations that Trump obstructed their investigation, including refusing to provide documents and testimony from his top advisers, unsuccessful attempts to block career government officials from testifying and intimidation of witnesses. The Democrats argue that "damage will be long-lasting and potentially irrevocable if the President’s ability to stonewall Congress goes unchecked." Making their case to move forward with impeachment, the report said that "any future President will feel empowered to resist an investigation into their own wrongdoing, malfeasance, or corruption, and the result will be a nation at far greater risk of all three." In a news conference, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff described Trump as a "president who believes that he is beyond indictment, beyond impeachment, beyond any form of accountability and indeed above the law." Trump, who is in London for a NATO summit, repeated accusations that Democrats are using the impeachment process to engage in a politically-motivated attack seeking to undo the results of the 2016 presidential election by removing him from office. Opinion polls show Americans are bitterly divided over impeachment. White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said Democrats had conducted a "one-sided sham process" that had failed to produce any evidence of wrongdoing by Trump. "This report reflects nothing more than their frustrations. Chairman Schiff’s report reads like the ramblings of a basement blogger straining to prove something when there is evidence of nothing,” Grisham said in a statement. Lawmakers and the public have heard testimony from current and former officials that military aid was withheld from Ukraine and that a White House meeting with Zelenskiy was conditioned on Kiev announcing a probe into Biden, as well as one into a debunked conspiracy theory about Ukrainian interference in the 2016 US election. The report was approved by the intelligence panel on a partisan vote on Tuesday evening. The vote was 13-9. It was not immediately clear how each member voted. If the full House eventually votes to approve formal impeachment charges, a trial would be held in the Republican-led US Senate, where a two-thirds majority of those present would be required to convict Trump and remove him from office. The report also brought to light new allegations by Democrats about phone calls between Trump's Republican allies. The report suggested wrongdoing within the executive branch extended beyond Trump. The report said many of Trump's "closest subordinates and advisors," including White House acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Energy Rick Perry aided Trump's efforts to pressure Ukraine and withheld information from Congress. Senior administration officials declined to testify in the proceedings. The report cited dozens of previously unreported phone records of contact between Trump's personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, Giuliani’s associates, the House Intelligence Committee's top Republican, Devin Nunes, and the White House's Office of Management and Budget. The phone records were obtained from AT&T, the report says. An AT&T statement acknowledged the company complied with a request. "Like all companies, we are required by law to provide information to government and law enforcement agencies," the statement said. "In all cases, we ensure that requests for assistance are valid and that we act in compliance with the law." A spokesman for Nunes did not respond to a request for comment. The report also sought to push back at a frequent defence of trump by Republican lawmakers - that the political novice was simply doing what all presidents do. "The President’s misconduct was not an isolated occurrence, nor was it the product of a naïve president," the report argues. Republicans, in an advance rebuttal report released on Monday, said Democrats had not established that Trump had committed an impeachable offence. Trump and other Republicans have suggested that Biden and his son Hunter Biden, who was on the board of a Ukrainian energy company, should be investigated for corruption. The Bidens have denied wrongdoing.

Democrats accuse Trump of abusing power, obstructing Congress' impeachment probe

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post.&nbsp;

Sule was responding to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's claim, where he said that PM Modi suggested that the duo should "work together", suggesting BJP-NCP alliance in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">Maharashtra</a>. Pawar also said that an offer was made to give cabinet birth to Sule in Centre.&nbsp;

"It is the grandeur of the prime minister that he made such suggestions. I am grateful to him for the suggestion, but this cannot happen," Sule said.&nbsp;

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Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule on Sharad Pawar's claim that PM Modi offered cabinet berth for Sule if BJP-NCP alliance happens: Ye pradhan mantri ji ka badappan hai ki unhone aisa sujhav diya. Main unki aabhari hoon unhone kaha, lekin wo ho nahi paya. <a href="https://t.co/3dVyqKqDDU">pic.twitter.com/3dVyqKqDDU</a>
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Days before BJP, NCP and Congress were closing in on a deal to form government in Maharashtra, in a jolting move, BJP's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Devendra Fadnavis </a>took oath along with senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar for the post of CM and deputy CM respectively on November 23.

However, senior Pawar repeatedly denied any involvement of stitching an alliance with BJP and ultimately BJP-NCP-Congress government was formed in the state with Uddhav Thackeray as the chief minister on November 28.&nbsp;

Speaking on whether a disciplinary action will be taken against Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit, Sule said that is an internal matter of their party and family. "He will always remain my elder brother and senior leader of the party," Sule said.&nbsp;

Long-term allies Shiv Sena and BJP formed an alliance for the Maharashtra Assembly polls but their ties got severed over power-sharing agreement. Sena then held talks with its traditional opponents, Congress and NCP, who later supported Sena and Maha Aghadi government was formed in Maharashtra.

(with inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post.

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post. Sule was responding to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's claim, where he said that PM Modi suggested that the duo should "work together", suggesting BJP-NCP alliance in Maharashtra. Pawar also said that an offer was made to give cabinet birth to Sule in Centre. "It is the grandeur of the prime minister that he made such suggestions. I am grateful to him for the suggestion, but this cannot happen," Sule said. Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule on Sharad Pawar's claim that PM Modi offered cabinet berth for Sule if BJP-NCP alliance happens: Ye pradhan mantri ji ka badappan hai ki unhone aisa sujhav diya. Main unki aabhari hoon unhone kaha, lekin wo ho nahi paya. pic.twitter.com/3dVyqKqDDU — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2019 × Days before BJP, NCP and Congress were closing in on a deal to form government in Maharashtra, in a jolting move, BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath along with senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar for the post of CM and deputy CM respectively on November 23. However, senior Pawar repeatedly denied any involvement of stitching an alliance with BJP and ultimately BJP-NCP-Congress government was formed in the state with Uddhav Thackeray as the chief minister on November 28. Speaking on whether a disciplinary action will be taken against Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit, Sule said that is an internal matter of their party and family. "He will always remain my elder brother and senior leader of the party," Sule said. Long-term allies Shiv Sena and BJP formed an alliance for the Maharashtra Assembly polls but their ties got severed over power-sharing agreement. Sena then held talks with its traditional opponents, Congress and NCP, who later supported Sena and Maha Aghadi government was formed in Maharashtra. (with inputs from ANI)

Grateful to PM Narendra Modi for offering cabinet berth: NCP leader Supriya Sule

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-security-breach-crpf-delhi-police-misjudged-intruders-vehicle-as-rahul-gandhis-car-265936">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence</a>, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader.

Sharda Tyagi, the mother of the car owner, Chandrashekhar Tyagi, said that her son is contesting the elections and they wanted to talk to the Congress leader about the same.

"We are staunch 'Congressis'. Our family members have been members of Congress for generations. I was even a party Commissonerate president in 1987 and contested the elections on a Congress ticket in 1991," Sharda Tyagi told ANI on Tuesday.

She said that they had been wanting to meet the Congress leader for some time and had gone to her residence in New Delhi to seek an appointment.

"Although I have been in politics for over 40 years, I have only met Priyanka Gandhi once. She was very young when I had first met her. This time we only managed to talk to her for a minute and my family spent that time clicking selfies," Tyagi said.

"Priyanka Gandhi was entering her house and so we got to meet her. There was a security breach. The Home Guards opened the gate without even seeing who was sitting inside. We only went there once and saw such negligence. This is unacceptable," she added.

Tyagi said Priyanka Gandhi introduced them to a party member and asked to contact that person if we needed anything.

In the last week of November, seven people allegedly entered the residence of Priyanka Gandhi in New Delhi in a black SUV without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Gandhi.

While sources say that an inquiry is being conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) into the matter, the incident has spiralled into a political controversy with several Opposition leaders targeting the Central government over the same.

The Central government had recently withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover given to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after reviewing the security cover of the three Congress leaders.&nbsp;

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader.

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader. Sharda Tyagi, the mother of the car owner, Chandrashekhar Tyagi, said that her son is contesting the elections and they wanted to talk to the Congress leader about the same. "We are staunch 'Congressis'. Our family members have been members of Congress for generations. I was even a party Commissonerate president in 1987 and contested the elections on a Congress ticket in 1991," Sharda Tyagi told ANI on Tuesday. She said that they had been wanting to meet the Congress leader for some time and had gone to her residence in New Delhi to seek an appointment. "Although I have been in politics for over 40 years, I have only met Priyanka Gandhi once. She was very young when I had first met her. This time we only managed to talk to her for a minute and my family spent that time clicking selfies," Tyagi said. "Priyanka Gandhi was entering her house and so we got to meet her. There was a security breach. The Home Guards opened the gate without even seeing who was sitting inside. We only went there once and saw such negligence. This is unacceptable," she added. Tyagi said Priyanka Gandhi introduced them to a party member and asked to contact that person if we needed anything. In the last week of November, seven people allegedly entered the residence of Priyanka Gandhi in New Delhi in a black SUV without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Gandhi. While sources say that an inquiry is being conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) into the matter, the incident has spiralled into a political controversy with several Opposition leaders targeting the Central government over the same. The Central government had recently withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover given to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after reviewing the security cover of the three Congress leaders.

'We are staunch Congress workers': Kin of family involved in security breach at Priyanka's residence

The Parliament on Tuesday passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill 2019 that aims to provide elite security only to the incumbent prime minister and his family members. Earlier, the bill provided security to former prime ministers and their family members as well.

The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) approved the bill after Congress and other parties staged a walkout. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-bill-to-amend-spg-act-264946">Lok Sabha </a>(Lower House) passed the SPG (Amendment) Bill on November 27.&nbsp;

Congress opposed the bill, citing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-launches-probe-following-security-breach-at-priyanka-gandhis-residence-265769">security breach </a>at the residence of party's General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after a car drove into her residence without permission last week.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the security breach at Priyanka's residence was a "coincidence" and assured the parliamentarians that the Bill was not an act of "political" vendetta.&nbsp;

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Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: Security cannot be made a status symbol. Why demand only SPG? SPG cover is meant for only the 'head of the state', we cannot be giving it to everyone. We don't oppose one family, we are against dynasty politics. <a href="https://t.co/Frb1HH8rqo">https://t.co/Frb1HH8rqo</a>
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&nbsp;

Shah also added that the security of Gandhis was downgraded on the basis of threat analysis and even before the bill was brought. Earlier, the SPG protection was withdrawn from Gandhis November 8.&nbsp;

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Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha on SPG Bill: This is the 5th amendment in the SPG Act. This amendment is not brought in by keeping Gandhis in mind, but, one thing that I can say for sure is that the previous 4 amendments were done by keeping only one family in mind. <a href="https://t.co/BCRNZmbea2">pic.twitter.com/BCRNZmbea2</a>
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"Security cannot be made a status symbol... SPG cover is meant for only the 'head of the state', we cannot be giving it to everyone. We don't oppose one family, we are against dynasty politics," Shah said in an indirect reference to the Gandhi family. Taking a jibe at the Gandhi family, Shah also said the amendments to the bill have not been done to keep in mind the Gandhis but previous four amendments to the bill had been done keeping in mind only one family.&nbsp;

The Bill provides SPG cover to the prime minister and his immediate family members who are residing with him at his official residence. It will also provide security to the former prime minister and their family members at the residence allotted to them five years till the date he ceases to hold the office.&nbsp;

The original Bill that was enacted in 1988, provided proximate security to the prime minister and his immediate family members. However, later amendments extended the act to former prime ministers as well. The last amendment in 2003 mentioned that former PMs will be given security one year after they vacate PMO and after that security cover will be provided on the basis of analysing threat perception.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The Parliament on Tuesday passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill 2019 that aims to provide elite security only to the incumbent prime minister and his family members.

The Parliament on Tuesday passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill 2019 that aims to provide elite security only to the incumbent prime minister and his family members. Earlier, the bill provided security to former prime ministers and their family members as well. The Rajya Sabha (Upper House) approved the bill after Congress and other parties staged a walkout. The Lok Sabha (Lower House) passed the SPG (Amendment) Bill on November 27. Congress opposed the bill, citing the security breach at the residence of party's General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after a car drove into her residence without permission last week. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the security breach at Priyanka's residence was a "coincidence" and assured the parliamentarians that the Bill was not an act of "political" vendetta. Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: Security cannot be made a status symbol. Why demand only SPG? SPG cover is meant for only the 'head of the state', we cannot be giving it to everyone. We don't oppose one family, we are against dynasty politics. https://t.co/Frb1HH8rqo — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2019 × Shah also added that the security of Gandhis was downgraded on the basis of threat analysis and even before the bill was brought. Earlier, the SPG protection was withdrawn from Gandhis November 8. Home Minister Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha on SPG Bill: This is the 5th amendment in the SPG Act. This amendment is not brought in by keeping Gandhis in mind, but, one thing that I can say for sure is that the previous 4 amendments were done by keeping only one family in mind. pic.twitter.com/BCRNZmbea2 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2019 × "Security cannot be made a status symbol... SPG cover is meant for only the 'head of the state', we cannot be giving it to everyone. We don't oppose one family, we are against dynasty politics," Shah said in an indirect reference to the Gandhi family. Taking a jibe at the Gandhi family, Shah also said the amendments to the bill have not been done to keep in mind the Gandhis but previous four amendments to the bill had been done keeping in mind only one family. The Bill provides SPG cover to the prime minister and his immediate family members who are residing with him at his official residence. It will also provide security to the former prime minister and their family members at the residence allotted to them five years till the date he ceases to hold the office. The original Bill that was enacted in 1988, provided proximate security to the prime minister and his immediate family members. However, later amendments extended the act to former prime ministers as well. The last amendment in 2003 mentioned that former PMs will be given security one year after they vacate PMO and after that security cover will be provided on the basis of analysing threat perception. (with inputs from agencies)

Parliament passes Special Protection (Amendment) Bill

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/politics-of-security-withdrawal-of-spg-cover-of-gandhis-260883">Priyanka Gandhi's </a>residence, as per sources.

A car drove into the high-security residence at the Lodhi estate without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Priyanka a week ago, as per Congress sources. Priyanka was present in his house at the time of the incident.&nbsp;

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Deepak Yadav, Additional DCP, New Delhi: No complaints received in the local Police Station regarding entry of any unauthorized vehicle in the house of Priyanka Gandhi. <a href="https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm">https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm</a>
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Sources further said that an inquiry has been initiated by the CRPF for the security breach after a complaint was filed.&nbsp;

G Kishan Reddy, MoS Home Affairs said that he doesn't know the details of the security breach yet. "I don't know the details yet, I am coming from Lok Sabha. I will go and discuss the matter with my officers," Reddy said. &nbsp;

The incident came after the Centre recently withdrew the highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection given to the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra). The trio is now given Z+ security cover by the CRPF across India. &nbsp;The Central government said that the decision was taken after assessing that the threat perception to the family which has been lowered.&nbsp;

The Gandhis had been under the highest security ever since the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 by terror groups from Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi's residence, as per sources.

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi's residence, as per sources. A car drove into the high-security residence at the Lodhi estate without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Priyanka a week ago, as per Congress sources. Priyanka was present in his house at the time of the incident. Deepak Yadav, Additional DCP, New Delhi: No complaints received in the local Police Station regarding entry of any unauthorized vehicle in the house of Priyanka Gandhi. https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2019 × Sources further said that an inquiry has been initiated by the CRPF for the security breach after a complaint was filed. G Kishan Reddy, MoS Home Affairs said that he doesn't know the details of the security breach yet. "I don't know the details yet, I am coming from Lok Sabha. I will go and discuss the matter with my officers," Reddy said. The incident came after the Centre recently withdrew the highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection given to the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra). The trio is now given Z+ security cover by the CRPF across India. The Central government said that the decision was taken after assessing that the threat perception to the family which has been lowered. The Gandhis had been under the highest security ever since the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 by terror groups from Sri Lanka. (with inputs from agencies)

CRPF launches probe following security breach at Priyanka Gandhi's residence

Union Home Minister and BJP President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-completely-uproot-naxalism-in-jharkhand-amit-shah-265107">Amit Shah </a>slammed Hemant Soren and accused him of sitting on Congress's lap in order to become chief minister.

"Due to the thirst for power, Hemant Soren is trying to become chief minister while sitting on the lap of Congress, Shah said while addressing a rally in Chakradharpur in Jharkhand ahead of the second phase of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-64-voter-turnout-recorded-in-first-phase-of-jharkhand-polls-election-commission-265498">Assembly election</a>. He also said Soren and Congress's objective is to get power but BJP&nbsp;aims to push forward the state on the path of development.

"I am sure Jharkhand wants Kashmir to be an integral part of India, terrorism to end and Naxalism be uprooted," Shah said in an indirect reference to highlight BJP's stance on such issues. He also added that Jharkhand wants Ram temple to be built in Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Shah accused senior advocate and Congress leader Kapil Sibal for approaching the apex court in order to delay the verdict of Ram Janmabhoomi case. "We requested (the court) that the case should be moved faster. What was the result? SC has given judgement and now a grand sky-high temple of Ram will be built in Ayodhya," the home minister said.

Shah also showered praised on the Modi government in Centre and Raghubar Das's government in the state, adding that because of their efforts in the last five years, Naxalism ended in Jharkhand clearing&nbsp;the path for development in the state.

The BJP president also assured the people of the state that National Register of Citizens (NRC) will be implemented in the entire country before the 2024 general election.

The elections in Jharkhand are underway and the state voted for the first phase on November 30. The voting for the next phase will be held on December 20 covering 20 assembly constituencies. The fifth and final phase will go to polls on December 20 and the results will declared on December 23.

(with inputs from ANI)

&nbsp;

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah slammed Hemant Soren and accused him of sitting on Congress's lap in order to become chief minister. "Due to the thirst for power, Hemant Soren is trying to become chief minister while sitting on the lap of Congress, Shah said while addressing a rally in Chakradharpur in Jharkhand ahead of the second phase of the Assembly election.

Union Home Minister and BJP President Amit Shah slammed Hemant Soren and accused him of sitting on Congress's lap in order to become chief minister. "Due to the thirst for power, Hemant Soren is trying to become chief minister while sitting on the lap of Congress, Shah said while addressing a rally in Chakradharpur in Jharkhand ahead of the second phase of the Assembly election. He also said Soren and Congress's objective is to get power but BJP aims to push forward the state on the path of development. "I am sure Jharkhand wants Kashmir to be an integral part of India, terrorism to end and Naxalism be uprooted," Shah said in an indirect reference to highlight BJP's stance on such issues. He also added that Jharkhand wants Ram temple to be built in Ayodhya. Shah accused senior advocate and Congress leader Kapil Sibal for approaching the apex court in order to delay the verdict of Ram Janmabhoomi case. "We requested (the court) that the case should be moved faster. What was the result? SC has given judgement and now a grand sky-high temple of Ram will be built in Ayodhya," the home minister said. Shah also showered praised on the Modi government in Centre and Raghubar Das's government in the state, adding that because of their efforts in the last five years, Naxalism ended in Jharkhand clearing the path for development in the state. The BJP president also assured the people of the state that National Register of Citizens (NRC) will be implemented in the entire country before the 2024 general election. The elections in Jharkhand are underway and the state voted for the first phase on November 30. The voting for the next phase will be held on December 20 covering 20 assembly constituencies. The fifth and final phase will go to polls on December 20 and the results will declared on December 23. (with inputs from ANI)

Jharkhand election: Amit Shah slams Hemant Soren, says he is sitting on 'Congress's lap' to become CM

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7.

According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4.

He will inaugurate Indira Gandhi Memorial Bus stand cum shopping complex at Edakkara, new block at GHSS Karuvarakundu at Wandoor, a project in Kodenchery Grama Panchayat at Mariyam Auditorium, Kodenchery, Thiruvambadi and cultural conference at Mahadeva Temple, Kodencherry on December 5.

He will also visit the Nilambur Assembly convention at OCK Auditorium, Wandoor Assembly convention at Eriyad auditorium, Love share, a school for special children and Thiruvambadi assembly convention at Shangrilla auditorium, Mukkam on the same day.

On December 6 he is scheduled to attend Late M I Shanavas remembrance meeting at Cholayil auditorium, Meenangadi, Kalpetta assembly convention at Chandragiri auditorium, visit the family of Shehala Sherin, the child who died of snakebite.

He will also visit Sarvajana HSS School, the school where the snakebite episode occurred at Sultan Bathery.

Inauguration of new block Vythiri government hospital and newly constructed MSDP block at Vakeri High School will be done on the same day by Rahul Gandhi.On the last day of his visit on December 7, he will meet with 400 newly trained disaster management volunteers at Zilla Panchayat auditorium, Kalpetta and distribute 'Muttathe Mulla'&nbsp;loan to SHG's (Kudumbashree) by Manathawadi farmer's service co-operative bank.

Rahul will also inaugurate a new department block of Psychiatry and de-addiction at Assumption Hospital, Sultan Bathery on the same day.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7. According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4.

Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit his constituency Wayanad, Kerala from December 4 to 7. According to Rahul Gandhi office, he will be reaching Kozhikode on December 4. He will inaugurate Indira Gandhi Memorial Bus stand cum shopping complex at Edakkara, new block at GHSS Karuvarakundu at Wandoor, a project in Kodenchery Grama Panchayat at Mariyam Auditorium, Kodenchery, Thiruvambadi and cultural conference at Mahadeva Temple, Kodencherry on December 5. He will also visit the Nilambur Assembly convention at OCK Auditorium, Wandoor Assembly convention at Eriyad auditorium, Love share, a school for special children and Thiruvambadi assembly convention at Shangrilla auditorium, Mukkam on the same day. On December 6 he is scheduled to attend Late M I Shanavas remembrance meeting at Cholayil auditorium, Meenangadi, Kalpetta assembly convention at Chandragiri auditorium, visit the family of Shehala Sherin, the child who died of snakebite. He will also visit Sarvajana HSS School, the school where the snakebite episode occurred at Sultan Bathery. Inauguration of new block Vythiri government hospital and newly constructed MSDP block at Vakeri High School will be done on the same day by Rahul Gandhi.On the last day of his visit on December 7, he will meet with 400 newly trained disaster management volunteers at Zilla Panchayat auditorium, Kalpetta and distribute 'Muttathe Mulla' loan to SHG's (Kudumbashree) by Manathawadi farmer's service co-operative bank. Rahul will also inaugurate a new department block of Psychiatry and de-addiction at Assumption Hospital, Sultan Bathery on the same day.

Rahul Gandhi to pay four-day visit to Wayanad on December 4

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-confident-of-winning-all-15-seats-in-karnataka-bypolls-deputy-cm-ashwath-narayan-263908">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) </a>is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-congress-declares-names-of-six-candidates-contesting-assembly-by-polls-262661">Karnataka bypolls</a>.

"BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here.

"It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results."

Kharge further said that all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">disqualified MLAs </a>will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections.

"BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said.

Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns.

"The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said.

"In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added.

Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away."

The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.&nbsp;

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing the Constitution and they will be taught a lesson in the upcoming Karnataka bypolls. "BJP is misusing the Constitution. So let us see what happens next (about Congress alliance with JDS). People are watching everything how the power is being misused at the state and central levels," Kharge told reporters at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here. "It is important to teach BJP a lesson and we have to win all 15 seats. Indicating that the party was not averse to ally with JD(S), he said, "There are sources saying that JDS and Congress will come together to form the government after the bypoll results." Kharge further said that all disqualified MLAs will lose in Karnataka as they cheated the ideology and party and people are really angry on them. He also accused the BJP of using nefarious means to win the elections. "BJP is distributing money to the voters which is dangerous to democracy. At present, BJP is putting pressure even on voters. If they don't succeed through these means then they raise religious things to fight elections," he said. Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of neglecting Karnataka and of being impervious to the state's concerns. "The local leadership of BJP promised of bringing funds from the Centre if their government came to power in Karnataka but they brought nothing even after such a huge flood. Modi neither spoke about Karnataka nor did he visit the state," he said. "In my opinion Modi hates Karnataka, I don`t know what is the reason. Does he hate Karnataka because he hates Yediyurappa? He never helps Karnataka due to reasons unknown to us," he added. Speaking on Maharashtra politics, Kharge said: "We formed the government with Shiv Sena even when our President was not in favour of it. But suggestions by MLAs, other parties and leftist parties suggested us to keep BJP away from the power which is why we formed the government with NCP and Shiv Sena. We just wanted to keep the fascist party away." The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats in Karnataka are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.

BJP misusing Constitution, will be taught lesson in Karnataka bypolls: Mallikarjun Kharge

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-congress-shiv-sena-alliance-in-maharashtra-will-prove-its-majority-during-floor-test-today-ajit-pawar-265380">floor test</a> on Saturday in the state assembly.&nbsp;

The alliance won a total of 169 votes&nbsp;amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties.

The proceedings for the floor test started with Congress leader Ashok Chavan moving the motion for the trust vote.

NCP leader Nawab Malik and Shiv Sena's Sunil Prabhu seconded the proposal. Before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-maha-vikas-aghadi-government-to-face-trust-vote-today-sanjay-raut-claims-support-of-170-mlas-265349">floor test</a> proceeding started, opposition MLAs also staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules.

The NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance comfortably managed to pass the floor test today.

Alliance leader and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray took the oath as Maharashtra's 18th chief minister on Thursday, three days after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar stepped down as chief minister and deputy chief minister as they could not prove majority in a Supreme Court-ordered floor test.&nbsp;

Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs.

"Today is the day to prove majority... 170 +++++..." he tweeted.

On Sunday, a permanent Speaker will be elected and the name of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) will be also announced.

As per the assembly results, the Shiv Sena has 56 MLAs, NCP has 54 and Congress has 44 in the 288-member state assembly.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the floor test on Saturday in the state assembly. The alliance won a total of 169 votes amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government passed the floor test on Saturday in the state assembly. The alliance won a total of 169 votes amid a walkout by MLAs of the opposition parties. The proceedings for the floor test started with Congress leader Ashok Chavan moving the motion for the trust vote. NCP leader Nawab Malik and Shiv Sena's Sunil Prabhu seconded the proposal. Before the floor test proceeding started, opposition MLAs also staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest alleging that the special session was not convened as per rules. The NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance comfortably managed to pass the floor test today. Alliance leader and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray took the oath as Maharashtra's 18th chief minister on Thursday, three days after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar stepped down as chief minister and deputy chief minister as they could not prove majority in a Supreme Court-ordered floor test. Ahead of the trust vote, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut expressed confidence of the alliance winning the floor test. Taking to Twitter, he claimed that the Maha Vikash Agadhi had the support of over 170 MLAs. "Today is the day to prove majority... 170 +++++..." he tweeted. On Sunday, a permanent Speaker will be elected and the name of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) will be also announced. As per the assembly results, the Shiv Sena has 56 MLAs, NCP has 54 and Congress has 44 in the 288-member state assembly.

Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray-led government passes floor test in state assembly 

After an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-siddaramaiah-hd-kumaraswamy-booked-for-opposing-it-raids-sedition-265205">FIR </a>was registered against him for allegedly obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties, Congress leader DK Shivakumar called it a "political vendetta" and said he is ready to go to jail.

"This is all a political vendetta. All cases are being done by these officers and friends of BJP. We know that. We will fight it out politically. We are ready to go to jail, no problem," Shivakumar said here.

An FIR was registered against Shivakumar, former Karnataka chief ministers HD Kumaraswamy and Siddaramaiah, and ex-Bengaluru city police commissioner Suneel Kumar among others under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including the charge of sedition, for allegedly obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties.

Acting on a private complaint, a local court directed the Bengaluru police to file the FIR.&nbsp;Commercial Street police station has filed the case under several sections of the IPC.

Mallikarjuna, a social activist from Tumkur had alleged that on March 27, the then chief minister HD Kumaraswamy had issued statements to the media that he had received information that I-T officials were preparing to raid houses belonging to some JD(S) leaders.

On March 28 they held a protest opposing the raids on JD(S) and Congress leaders. This amounts to obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties and this also led to major traffic snarls in the area, the activist said. The police who were present at the spot did not do anything to stop the protest, he stated.&nbsp;

After an FIR was registered against him for allegedly obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties, Congress leader DK Shivakumar called it a "political vendetta" and said he is ready to go to jail.

After an FIR was registered against him for allegedly obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties, Congress leader DK Shivakumar called it a "political vendetta" and said he is ready to go to jail. "This is all a political vendetta. All cases are being done by these officers and friends of BJP. We know that. We will fight it out politically. We are ready to go to jail, no problem," Shivakumar said here. An FIR was registered against Shivakumar, former Karnataka chief ministers HD Kumaraswamy and Siddaramaiah, and ex-Bengaluru city police commissioner Suneel Kumar among others under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including the charge of sedition, for allegedly obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties. Acting on a private complaint, a local court directed the Bengaluru police to file the FIR. Commercial Street police station has filed the case under several sections of the IPC. Mallikarjuna, a social activist from Tumkur had alleged that on March 27, the then chief minister HD Kumaraswamy had issued statements to the media that he had received information that I-T officials were preparing to raid houses belonging to some JD(S) leaders. On March 28 they held a protest opposing the raids on JD(S) and Congress leaders. This amounts to obstructing I-T officials from discharging their duties and this also led to major traffic snarls in the area, the activist said. The police who were present at the spot did not do anything to stop the protest, he stated.

We are ready to go to jail: DK Shivakumar after FIR filed against him

With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA.

With several leaders including cabinet ministers and spokespersons coming out openly against the former ally, it is now likely that the attacks on the Maharashtra alliance will intensify in the coming days. The BJP is seemingly upset with the fact that it lost out on forming a government in the state despite being the largest political party with 105 MLAs in the 288 member state Assembly.

Speaking to ANI, cabinet minister and senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh targeted the Shiv Sena for its alleged attempts at getting a secular certification from the Congress, while at the same time deserting the NDA alliance."There are two people who give a certificate of secularism in this country. One is Congress and second is one who can abuse Hindus. Those who want the certificate should do the same," Singh said while alleging that Shiv Sena was desperate to seek validation from the Congress in its lust for power.

The minister also claimed that he had not compared the party with the Mughals in his tweets. "All I have said is that in lust for power, princely states and kings joined hands with Mughals. Mughal expanded in India through some princely states. Likewise, the Maharashtra government was formed with Congress," he clarified.

Further targeting the Shiv Sena, Singh said, "How can he (Uddhav Thackeray) get upset when asked about secularism. It is running on all TV channels. Definition of secular came here in 1976 but in Sanatan dharma, it has been there for ages. Secularism is in our DNA.''

The party is seemingly peeved at the attempt by the new Maharashtra alliance that had led to the removal of Devendra Fadnavis government, within days of BJP leaders taking oath as Maharashtra CM for a second time.

Another BJP leader and spokesperson of the party, GVL Narasimha Rao also tweeted taking a dig at the alliance of the erstwhile Hindu nationalist party with the Congress."Congratulations to 'Godse Bhakt'&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray on taking over as CM of Maharashtra. You and your MLAs have pledged loyalty to Sultanete. Complete this surrender by renaming Saamna 'Sonia Nama'. They won't tolerate your nonsensical editorials dished out in your third rate paper," he tweeted soon after the oath taking ceremony," Rao wrote.

&nbsp;

With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA.

With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA. With several leaders including cabinet ministers and spokespersons coming out openly against the former ally, it is now likely that the attacks on the Maharashtra alliance will intensify in the coming days. The BJP is seemingly upset with the fact that it lost out on forming a government in the state despite being the largest political party with 105 MLAs in the 288 member state Assembly. Speaking to ANI, cabinet minister and senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh targeted the Shiv Sena for its alleged attempts at getting a secular certification from the Congress, while at the same time deserting the NDA alliance."There are two people who give a certificate of secularism in this country. One is Congress and second is one who can abuse Hindus. Those who want the certificate should do the same," Singh said while alleging that Shiv Sena was desperate to seek validation from the Congress in its lust for power. The minister also claimed that he had not compared the party with the Mughals in his tweets. "All I have said is that in lust for power, princely states and kings joined hands with Mughals. Mughal expanded in India through some princely states. Likewise, the Maharashtra government was formed with Congress," he clarified. Further targeting the Shiv Sena, Singh said, "How can he (Uddhav Thackeray) get upset when asked about secularism. It is running on all TV channels. Definition of secular came here in 1976 but in Sanatan dharma, it has been there for ages. Secularism is in our DNA.'' The party is seemingly peeved at the attempt by the new Maharashtra alliance that had led to the removal of Devendra Fadnavis government, within days of BJP leaders taking oath as Maharashtra CM for a second time. Another BJP leader and spokesperson of the party, GVL Narasimha Rao also tweeted taking a dig at the alliance of the erstwhile Hindu nationalist party with the Congress."Congratulations to 'Godse Bhakt' Uddhav Thackeray on taking over as CM of Maharashtra. You and your MLAs have pledged loyalty to Sultanete. Complete this surrender by renaming Saamna 'Sonia Nama'. They won't tolerate your nonsensical editorials dished out in your third rate paper," he tweeted soon after the oath taking ceremony," Rao wrote.

BJP leaders slams Uddhav Thackeray over 'secularism', allying with Congress

Shiv Sena chief and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray</a> on Thursday held his first cabinet meeting shortly after taking oath as the chief minister.&nbsp;

In one of the first decisions taken during the meet, Thackeray's cabinet decided to approve Rs 20 crores for the development of Raigad Fort, Thackeray announced, adding that his government will help the farmers "in a manner which will them happy".

"I am happy to tell you all that the first decision that this cabinet has taken is to approve Rs 20 Crores for the development of Raigad which was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," Thackeray said.&nbsp;

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Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray after first cabinet meeting, in Mumbai: I am happy to tell you all that the first decision that this cabinet has taken is to approve Rs 20 Crores for the development of Raigad which was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
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The chief minister assured good government to Maharashtra and assistance to farmers.

"I want to assure the people of the state that we will give a good government. I want to help the farmers in a manner which will make them happy," he said.&nbsp;

Thackeray said that he has asked officials to provide him with complete information on state and centre schemes for farmers in the next two days.&nbsp;

"Once I get all the details, I will take a decision accordingly," Thackeray told media.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/he-will-work-diligently-for-bright-future-of-maharashtra-pm-modi-congratulates-uddhav-thackeray-on-oath-taking-265114">Modi congratulated Uddhav Thackeray</a> for taking oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister and said that he is confident that Thackeray "will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra".

PM Modi took to microblogging site Twitter and posted, "Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra".

Thackeray's first cabinet meeting was held at the Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai.

Earlier, in the day, six leaders - two each from Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP - took oath as ministers in Maharashtra's alliance government on Thursday led by Chief Minister Thackeray.

They were administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Shivaji Park.

Congress' Balasaheb Thorat and Nitin Raut, NCP's Jayant Rajaram Patil, and Chhagan Chandrakant Bhujbal took oath as ministers. From Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde and Subhash Desai were sworn in as ministers.

Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday held his first cabinet meeting shortly after taking oath as the chief minister. In one of the first decisions taken during the meet, Thackeray's cabinet decided to approve Rs 20 crores for the development of Raigad Fort, Thackeray announced, adding that his government will help the farmers "in a manner which will them happy".

Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday held his first cabinet meeting shortly after taking oath as the chief minister. In one of the first decisions taken during the meet, Thackeray's cabinet decided to approve Rs 20 crores for the development of Raigad Fort, Thackeray announced, adding that his government will help the farmers "in a manner which will them happy". "I am happy to tell you all that the first decision that this cabinet has taken is to approve Rs 20 Crores for the development of Raigad which was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," Thackeray said. Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray after first cabinet meeting, in Mumbai: I am happy to tell you all that the first decision that this cabinet has taken is to approve Rs 20 Crores for the development of Raigad which was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2019 × The chief minister assured good government to Maharashtra and assistance to farmers. "I want to assure the people of the state that we will give a good government. I want to help the farmers in a manner which will make them happy," he said. Thackeray said that he has asked officials to provide him with complete information on state and centre schemes for farmers in the next two days. "Once I get all the details, I will take a decision accordingly," Thackeray told media. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Uddhav Thackeray for taking oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister and said that he is confident that Thackeray "will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra". PM Modi took to microblogging site Twitter and posted, "Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra". Thackeray's first cabinet meeting was held at the Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai. Earlier, in the day, six leaders - two each from Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP - took oath as ministers in Maharashtra's alliance government on Thursday led by Chief Minister Thackeray. They were administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Shivaji Park. Congress' Balasaheb Thorat and Nitin Raut, NCP's Jayant Rajaram Patil, and Chhagan Chandrakant Bhujbal took oath as ministers. From Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde and Subhash Desai were sworn in as ministers.

Farmers' issue, Raigad fort on Uddhav's priority after first cabinet meeting

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