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<p>As the southwest Indian state of Karnataka is set to go to polls in the second and third phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26 and May 7, the recent killing of a corporator's daughter has become a major flashpoint between the ruling Congress party and the opposition BJP.&nbsp;With the perpetrator arrested and the investigation ongoing, BJP leaders are claiming this to be a case of 'love jihad'. The victim's father Niranjan Hiremath has also dubbed the heinous crime a case of 'love jihad'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The gang had conspired for a long time. They had planned either to trap her or to execute her. They have been threatening her in that backdrop. However, the girl had not heeded their threats," Hiremath reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to a local media outlet, Niranjan Hiremath claimed that his daughter Neha and the accused were merely friends, not lovers. He further asserted that his daughter had warned the accused that she would file a complaint if he did not stop.</p>

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<p>He said that his daughter was “a very bold and a very brave girl”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“She did not like him, and she usually stayed away from all this... She refused his proposal, saying they both belonged to different castes and that she did not wish to have any relationship with him. Out of anger, he stabbed my daughter."</p>

<h2><strong>Karnataka CM on law and order&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah claimed&nbsp;that the murder took place due to personal reasons, the victim's father said, "The whole state and country witnessed what happened to my daughter. If they say that it is personal, what is personal in this? Are they my relatives?"&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Over BJP's allegations of a complete breakdown of law and order machinery in the state, the state CM hit back saying, "The law and order situation is very good in Karnataka, It is our duty to maintain law and order and we are doing it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The preliminary investigation has revealed that the girl knew Fayaz Khondunaik and was in a relationship with him, but had been avoiding the man.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>As per reports, Khondunaik stabbed her seven times and put her to death. He was a former student of the college that the late 23-year-old, a first-year student of Master of Computer Applications, was attending in Hubbali.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the incident, a large number of people assembled outside the Vidyanagar police station in Hubballi and held protests. They are calling for stringent punishment for the accused in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


As the southwest Indian state of Karnataka is set to go to polls in the second and third phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26 and May 7, the recent killing of a corporator's daughter has become a major flashpoint between the ruling Congress party and the opposition BJP.

As the southwest Indian state of Karnataka is set to go to polls in the second and third phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26 and May 7, the recent killing of a corporator's daughter has become a major flashpoint between the ruling Congress party and the opposition BJP. With the perpetrator arrested and the investigation ongoing, BJP leaders are claiming this to be a case of 'love jihad'. The victim's father Niranjan Hiremath has also dubbed the heinous crime a case of 'love jihad'. "The gang had conspired for a long time. They had planned either to trap her or to execute her. They have been threatening her in that backdrop. However, the girl had not heeded their threats," Hiremath reportedly said. Speaking to a local media outlet, Niranjan Hiremath claimed that his daughter Neha and the accused were merely friends, not lovers. He further asserted that his daughter had warned the accused that she would file a complaint if he did not stop. Also Read | AAP's Saurabh Bhardwaj claim 'slow death' plot against Arvind Kejriwal He said that his daughter was “a very bold and a very brave girl”. “She did not like him, and she usually stayed away from all this... She refused his proposal, saying they both belonged to different castes and that she did not wish to have any relationship with him. Out of anger, he stabbed my daughter." Karnataka CM on law and order After Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah claimed that the murder took place due to personal reasons, the victim's father said, "The whole state and country witnessed what happened to my daughter. If they say that it is personal, what is personal in this? Are they my relatives?" Also Read | Indian tourist arrivals to Maldives drop by over 50pc Over BJP's allegations of a complete breakdown of law and order machinery in the state, the state CM hit back saying, "The law and order situation is very good in Karnataka, It is our duty to maintain law and order and we are doing it." The preliminary investigation has revealed that the girl knew Fayaz Khondunaik and was in a relationship with him, but had been avoiding the man. Watch | Tesla eyes India as its next production hub × As per reports, Khondunaik stabbed her seven times and put her to death. He was a former student of the college that the late 23-year-old, a first-year student of Master of Computer Applications, was attending in Hubbali. Following the incident, a large number of people assembled outside the Vidyanagar police station in Hubballi and held protests. They are calling for stringent punishment for the accused in the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Father of killed Karnataka girl alleges 'love jihad' as Congress, BJP clash ahead of polls

<p>The candidature of Congress' Nilesh Kumbhani from Surat Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat was rejected on Sunday after the district returning officer prima facie found discrepancies in the signature of the proposers in the nomination papers. The nomination form of Suresh Padsala, the Congress' substitute candidate from Surat, was also invalidated, pushing Gujarat's principal opposition party out of the poll fray in the city.</p>

<p>In his order, Returning Officer Sourabh Pardhi said the four nomination forms submitted by Kumbhani and Padsala were rejected after prima facie, discrepancies were found in the signatures of the proposers, and they did not appear genuine.</p>

<p>The proposers, in their affidavits, stated that they had not signed the forms themselves, Pardhi's order informed.</p>

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<p>Confirming the development, the Congress party's lawyer Babu Mangukiya said, "Nomination forms of Dinesh Kumbhani and Suresh Padsala have been rejected after the four proposers said signatures on the forms were not theirs." Mangukiya said the next course of action will be to approach the High Court and Supreme Court.</p>

<p>Dinesh Jodhani, the election agent of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Mukesh Dalal, had objected to the nomination forms on Saturday, after which the returning officer granted time to the Congress candidate to appear before it on Sunday morning to present his case.</p>

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<p>In his reply, Kumbhani submitted that the proposers had put their signatures in his presence, and their signatures should be examined by a handwriting expert.</p>

<p>They also should be cross-examined for the benefit of justice, he said.</p>

<p>The returning officer ordered the rejection of the nomination forms after considering the affidavits submitted by the proposers and related evidence and after ascertaining the identity of the proposers and ensuring they were not threatened or were under pressure.</p>

<p>Even the presence of the signatories was not found in the video footage examined at the request of the Congress candidate's lawyer, the order stated.</p>

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<p>The BJP has fielded Mukesh Dalal from the Surat Lok Sabha constituency.</p>

<p>Dalal (63) is a former standing committee chairman of the BJP-ruled Surat Municipal Corporation and currently serves as the general secretary of the party's Surat city unit.</p>

<p>In a related development, the nominations of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate for the Bhavnagar Lok Sabha seat, Umesh Makwana, and Congress candidate for the Amreli Lok Sabha seat, Jenny Thummar, were accepted by the respective returning officers after hearing both sides.</p>

<p>The BJP had raised objections to the forms of the two candidates, claiming that they had hidden some details in their affidavit submitted along with their forms.</p>

<p>The Congress and AAP are in alliance to contest the Lok Sabha polls in Gujarat. The Congress has fielded candidates on 24 of 26 seats, while AAP is contesting from Bhavnagar and Bharuch.&nbsp;</p>


The candidature of Congress' Nilesh Kumbhani from Surat Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat was rejected on Sunday after the district returning officer prima facie found discrepancies in the signature of the proposers in the nomination papers.

The candidature of Congress' Nilesh Kumbhani from Surat Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat was rejected on Sunday after the district returning officer prima facie found discrepancies in the signature of the proposers in the nomination papers. The nomination form of Suresh Padsala, the Congress' substitute candidate from Surat, was also invalidated, pushing Gujarat's principal opposition party out of the poll fray in the city. In his order, Returning Officer Sourabh Pardhi said the four nomination forms submitted by Kumbhani and Padsala were rejected after prima facie, discrepancies were found in the signatures of the proposers, and they did not appear genuine. The proposers, in their affidavits, stated that they had not signed the forms themselves, Pardhi's order informed. Also Read | Nimisha Priya: Kerala nurse's mom reaches Yemen to rescue her from death sentence Confirming the development, the Congress party's lawyer Babu Mangukiya said, "Nomination forms of Dinesh Kumbhani and Suresh Padsala have been rejected after the four proposers said signatures on the forms were not theirs." Mangukiya said the next course of action will be to approach the High Court and Supreme Court. Dinesh Jodhani, the election agent of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Mukesh Dalal, had objected to the nomination forms on Saturday, after which the returning officer granted time to the Congress candidate to appear before it on Sunday morning to present his case. Also Read | Karnataka murder: Accused’s father apologises to victim’s family, demands strict punishment for son In his reply, Kumbhani submitted that the proposers had put their signatures in his presence, and their signatures should be examined by a handwriting expert. They also should be cross-examined for the benefit of justice, he said. The returning officer ordered the rejection of the nomination forms after considering the affidavits submitted by the proposers and related evidence and after ascertaining the identity of the proposers and ensuring they were not threatened or were under pressure. Even the presence of the signatories was not found in the video footage examined at the request of the Congress candidate's lawyer, the order stated. Watch | Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives × The BJP has fielded Mukesh Dalal from the Surat Lok Sabha constituency. Dalal (63) is a former standing committee chairman of the BJP-ruled Surat Municipal Corporation and currently serves as the general secretary of the party's Surat city unit. In a related development, the nominations of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate for the Bhavnagar Lok Sabha seat, Umesh Makwana, and Congress candidate for the Amreli Lok Sabha seat, Jenny Thummar, were accepted by the respective returning officers after hearing both sides. The BJP had raised objections to the forms of the two candidates, claiming that they had hidden some details in their affidavit submitted along with their forms. The Congress and AAP are in alliance to contest the Lok Sabha polls in Gujarat. The Congress has fielded candidates on 24 of 26 seats, while AAP is contesting from Bhavnagar and Bharuch.

Congress’ Surat candidate Nilesh Kumbhani’s nomination papers rejected. Here’s why

<p>Over 300 km south of Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal and about 940 km away from New Delhi's corridors of power, Chhindwara is an undeniable bastion of the Congress party, which even at the lowest of its political fortunes in 2019, elected grand old party's Nakul Nath to Lok Sabha. Congress has won a whopping 17 of the 18 Lok Sabha Elections since 1952 in Chhindwara, and the constituency holds distinction as the last of the bastions for the Congress party which survived the juggernaut of PM Modi's populism in 2014 and 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chhindwara is one of India's precious few 'safe' parliamentary seats, meaning the incumbent can safely expect to get re-elected, and one of the few that consistently rewarded its representative for delivering on development," wrote author-investor Ruchir Sharma in his 2019 book 'Democracy on the Road'.</p>

<p>Chhindwara has elected Kamal Nath for a whopping nine terms between 1980 and 2019. The Gandhi loyalist, who became friends with former PM Indira Gandhi's son Sanjay at the Doon School in Dehradun, was succeeded as Chhindwara MP by his wife Alka in 1996 Lok Sabha Elections. The only loss Congress faced was in 1997 bypoll&nbsp;when former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Sunder Lal Patwa beat Kamal Nath by over 37,000 votes.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Kamal Nath then wrested Chhindwara from the BJP in 1998, and held on to it till 2019, winning five elections in a row. His son Nakul Nath won in 2019 in a hotly contested election to save his family bastion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I later asked a leading Indian industrialist how it was that leaders like Nath and [Sharad] Pawar could develop VIP constituencies, yet the mighty Gandhis could not do the same for Amethi," Sharma wrote further, referring to the way the Congress party struggled to get fifth generation Gandhi-Nehru scion Rahul Gandhi from Amethi in 2014. Five months after January 2019 when Ruchir's book was published, Amethi pronounced its verdict against Rahul Gandhi by electing the BJP's Smriti Irani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the Congress party, Amethi became a bastion subtracted. The spotlight is now on Chhindwara that elected Congress party amid BJP's attempts to redeem PM Modi's popularity in the constituency.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"He said it was about playing the game: figures like Nath and Pawar are on friendly terms with private business people and will not hesitate to tap them for development funds and assistance. The Gandhis are too wary of private business to make the necessary connections or call in direct favours," Sharma added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But ahead of 2024 polls, the ruling BJP has invested its full might to wrest Chhindwara from Congress, after taking up a legion of the Nath loyalists in the constituency.</p>

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<p>Nakul Nath is pitted against BJP's district president Vivek 'Bunty' Sahu, who claims to be "Chhindwara’s real son" and paints Nakul as an "outsider dynast".</p>

<p>The BJP has claimed to have inducted over 2,000 Congress leaders and workers in Chhindwara, including Amarwara’s MLA Kamlesh Pratap Shah, mayor Vikram Ahake and several councillors.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Nakul Nath emerges as the 'richest' Lok Sabha candidate</b></p>

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<p>Nath is also the richest Lok Sabha candidate in election fray with assets worth about ₹697 crore, an political liability that the BJP has publicised locally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With election fervour muted during silence period after April 17, the voters of Chhindwara will either create or repeat the history.</p>

<p>Chhindwara will vote on April 19. The counting of votes is scheduled to take place on April 4.&nbsp;</p>


Over 300 km south of Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal and about 940 km away from New Delhi's corridors of power, Chhindwara is an undeniable bastion of the Congress party, which even at the lowest of its political fortunes in 2019, elected grand old party's Nakul Nath to Lok Sabha.

Over 300 km south of Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal and about 940 km away from New Delhi's corridors of power, Chhindwara is an undeniable bastion of the Congress party, which even at the lowest of its political fortunes in 2019, elected grand old party's Nakul Nath to Lok Sabha. Congress has won a whopping 17 of the 18 Lok Sabha Elections since 1952 in Chhindwara, and the constituency holds distinction as the last of the bastions for the Congress party which survived the juggernaut of PM Modi's populism in 2014 and 2019. "Chhindwara is one of India's precious few 'safe' parliamentary seats, meaning the incumbent can safely expect to get re-elected, and one of the few that consistently rewarded its representative for delivering on development," wrote author-investor Ruchir Sharma in his 2019 book 'Democracy on the Road'. Chhindwara has elected Kamal Nath for a whopping nine terms between 1980 and 2019. The Gandhi loyalist, who became friends with former PM Indira Gandhi's son Sanjay at the Doon School in Dehradun, was succeeded as Chhindwara MP by his wife Alka in 1996 Lok Sabha Elections. The only loss Congress faced was in 1997 bypoll when former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Sunder Lal Patwa beat Kamal Nath by over 37,000 votes. Also read | Battle of the Bastions: Will champion athlete Jhajharia retain Churu for BJP? Kamal Nath then wrested Chhindwara from the BJP in 1998, and held on to it till 2019, winning five elections in a row. His son Nakul Nath won in 2019 in a hotly contested election to save his family bastion. "I later asked a leading Indian industrialist how it was that leaders like Nath and [Sharad] Pawar could develop VIP constituencies, yet the mighty Gandhis could not do the same for Amethi," Sharma wrote further, referring to the way the Congress party struggled to get fifth generation Gandhi-Nehru scion Rahul Gandhi from Amethi in 2014. Five months after January 2019 when Ruchir's book was published, Amethi pronounced its verdict against Rahul Gandhi by electing the BJP's Smriti Irani. For the Congress party, Amethi became a bastion subtracted. The spotlight is now on Chhindwara that elected Congress party amid BJP's attempts to redeem PM Modi's popularity in the constituency. Also read | Battle of the Bastions: Will Tharoor's Thiruvananthapuram become BJP's gateway in Kerala? "He said it was about playing the game: figures like Nath and Pawar are on friendly terms with private business people and will not hesitate to tap them for development funds and assistance. The Gandhis are too wary of private business to make the necessary connections or call in direct favours," Sharma added. But ahead of 2024 polls, the ruling BJP has invested its full might to wrest Chhindwara from Congress, after taking up a legion of the Nath loyalists in the constituency. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × Nakul Nath is pitted against BJP's district president Vivek 'Bunty' Sahu, who claims to be "Chhindwara’s real son" and paints Nakul as an "outsider dynast". The BJP has claimed to have inducted over 2,000 Congress leaders and workers in Chhindwara, including Amarwara’s MLA Kamlesh Pratap Shah, mayor Vikram Ahake and several councillors. Also watch | Nakul Nath emerges as the 'richest' Lok Sabha candidate × Nath is also the richest Lok Sabha candidate in election fray with assets worth about ₹697 crore, an political liability that the BJP has publicised locally. With election fervour muted during silence period after April 17, the voters of Chhindwara will either create or repeat the history. Chhindwara will vote on April 19. The counting of votes is scheduled to take place on April 4.

Battle of the Bastions: Will BJP wrest Chhindwara from Congress?

Next up we get you a quick Roundup of the latest developments coming in from the Indian political landscape as India heads to the poll on the 19th of April: Less than 48 hours to go for the first phase of elections in India. Political parties and their star leaders are pulling out all the stops on the last date attempting to woo the voters.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Campaigning ends for Lok Sabha polls phase 1

Less than 48 hours to go for the first phase of elections in India. Political parties and their star leaders are pulling out all the stops on the last date attempting to woo the voters.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: India elections countdown to Phase 1 polls

Here are the latest developments coming in from Indian Politics as the country heads to polls on April 19th that's this Friday. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi holds mega roadshow in Assam

Lok Sabha elections 2024 | PM Modi: TMC supports infiltrators but opposes CAA

Next up we get you a quick Roundup of the latest developments coming in from the Indian political landscape as India heads to the poll on the 19th of April: PM Modi holds an election rally in Kerala. Rahul Gandhi holds a roadshow in Wayanad. Punjab CM meets Arvind Kejriwal in prison. Amit Shah says he won't allow Manipur to be divided.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: PM Modi holds an election rally in Kerala | Rahul Gandhi holds roadshow in Wayanad

Rahul Gandhi's helicopter is under inspection. The Election Commission of India’s flying squad conducted a surprise inspection in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris. Rahul Gandhi was en route from Mysore to Nilgiris for a campaign event when his helicopter came under scrutiny.

Election officials check Rahul Gandhi's helicopter in Tamil Nadu

<p>Election officials on Monday (Apr 15) conducted checks in a helicopter carrying Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency PTI reported that according to the police, the search was conducted by the flying squad officials after the helicopter landed in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-congress-releases-list-of-10-candidates-for-general-elections-711250">Congress releases list of 10 candidates, fields Kanhaiya Kumar from North East Delhi</a></strong></p>

<p>Gandhi was on his way to his parliamentary constituency, Kerala's Wayanad for campaign activities, including public meetings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is fighting the April 26 Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad, seeking a successive term.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The Helicopter through which Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu was checked by the Election Commission's Flying Squad officials in Nilgiris.<br />
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(Video source: Election Commission Flying Squad) <a href="https://t.co/aSOoNxyUJB">pic.twitter.com/aSOoNxyUJB</a></p>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Congress leader on Monday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) poll manifesto does not have anything for the poor but talks about bidding for the 2036 Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He slammed the ruling dispensation at the Centre, alleging that the BJP was keen on pushing its agenda of "One nation, one election".</p>

<p>During his interaction with college students at Thaloor&nbsp;before proceeding to Wayanad in Kerala, Gandhi asked, "What are the BJP's policies for the poor?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the Congress manifesto has policies for all sections of the people, including the youth and women.&nbsp;Meanwhile, he alleged, the BJP's "election manifesto talks about holding Olympics in 2036. This is the difference between the Congress and the BJP".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday released the BJP's Lok Sabha poll manifesto, outlining his vision for 'Viksit Bharat' as he exhorted people to give another mandate to his party to shape India's "destiny" for the next 1,000 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi highlighted the achievements of 10 years of his government at the Centre and said the BJP has delivered on every promise it made so far as he described the party's 'Sankalp Patra' as a document of his guarantee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Election officials on Monday (Apr 15) conducted checks in a helicopter carrying Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. The news agency PTI reported that according to the police, the search was conducted by the flying squad officials after the helicopter landed in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.

Election officials on Monday (Apr 15) conducted checks in a helicopter carrying Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. The news agency PTI reported that according to the police, the search was conducted by the flying squad officials after the helicopter landed in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. Also read: Congress releases list of 10 candidates, fields Kanhaiya Kumar from North East Delhi Gandhi was on his way to his parliamentary constituency, Kerala's Wayanad for campaign activities, including public meetings. He is fighting the April 26 Lok Sabha polls from Wayanad, seeking a successive term. Watch the video here: #WATCH | The Helicopter through which Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu was checked by the Election Commission's Flying Squad officials in Nilgiris. (Video source: Election Commission Flying Squad) pic.twitter.com/aSOoNxyUJB — ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2024 × Meanwhile, the Congress leader on Monday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) poll manifesto does not have anything for the poor but talks about bidding for the 2036 Olympics. He slammed the ruling dispensation at the Centre, alleging that the BJP was keen on pushing its agenda of "One nation, one election". During his interaction with college students at Thaloor before proceeding to Wayanad in Kerala, Gandhi asked, "What are the BJP's policies for the poor?" He said that the Congress manifesto has policies for all sections of the people, including the youth and women. Meanwhile, he alleged, the BJP's "election manifesto talks about holding Olympics in 2036. This is the difference between the Congress and the BJP". Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday released the BJP's Lok Sabha poll manifesto, outlining his vision for 'Viksit Bharat' as he exhorted people to give another mandate to his party to shape India's "destiny" for the next 1,000 years. Modi highlighted the achievements of 10 years of his government at the Centre and said the BJP has delivered on every promise it made so far as he described the party's 'Sankalp Patra' as a document of his guarantee. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Election officials inspect Rahul Gandhi's helicopter in Tamil Nadu

<p>Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA&nbsp;in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>Congress also fielded former Union minister Manish Tewari from the Chandigarh parliamentary constituency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-shares-video-of-adhir-ranjan-chowdhurys-altercation-with-party-worker-display-of-hooliganism-710925">TMC shares video of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's altercation with party worker; 'display of hooliganism'</a></p>

<p>The other candidates in the list were Ramji Thakor from Mahesana, Himmatsinh Patel from Ahmedabad East, Pareshbhai Dhanani from Rajkot, Naishadh Desai from Navasari, Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla, Mohan Hembram from Keonjhar, Shrikant Kumar Jena from Balasore, Anant Prasad Sethi from Bhadrak, Anchal Das from Jajpur, Sashmita Behera from Dhenkanal, Sidharth Swarup Das from Kendrapara, Rabindra Kumar Sethy from Jagatsinghpur, Sucharita Mohanty from puri and Yasir Nawa from Bhubaneswar.</p>

<p>Vikramaditya Singh is the son of the Congress' Himachal Pradesh unit chief Pratibha Singh.</p>

<p>Slamming Kangana Ranaut for her ‘Chhota Pappu’ remark, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Thursday that he would pray to Lord Ram to give her some "sense."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-court-sends-brs-leader-k-kavitha-to-cbi-custody-till-april-15-710519">India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video message, Singh expressed that Kangana Ranaut is attempting to mislead the public and shift the focus away from the state's issues. He also challenged her to engage in a debate with him.</p>

<p>"We respect our elder sister Kangana Ranaut in high regard. Today, she addressed the people of Manali."</p>

<p>"Rather than criticising the Congress party and its leaders, it would have been more constructive if she had addressed the significant disaster that occurred in Manali a few months ago, which is considered one of the biggest calamities of the century," Singh remarked.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state. The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls.

Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state. The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. Congress also fielded former Union minister Manish Tewari from the Chandigarh parliamentary constituency. Also read: TMC shares video of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's altercation with party worker; 'display of hooliganism' The other candidates in the list were Ramji Thakor from Mahesana, Himmatsinh Patel from Ahmedabad East, Pareshbhai Dhanani from Rajkot, Naishadh Desai from Navasari, Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla, Mohan Hembram from Keonjhar, Shrikant Kumar Jena from Balasore, Anant Prasad Sethi from Bhadrak, Anchal Das from Jajpur, Sashmita Behera from Dhenkanal, Sidharth Swarup Das from Kendrapara, Rabindra Kumar Sethy from Jagatsinghpur, Sucharita Mohanty from puri and Yasir Nawa from Bhubaneswar. Vikramaditya Singh is the son of the Congress' Himachal Pradesh unit chief Pratibha Singh. Slamming Kangana Ranaut for her ‘Chhota Pappu’ remark, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Thursday that he would pray to Lord Ram to give her some "sense." Also read: India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15 In a video message, Singh expressed that Kangana Ranaut is attempting to mislead the public and shift the focus away from the state's issues. He also challenged her to engage in a debate with him. "We respect our elder sister Kangana Ranaut in high regard. Today, she addressed the people of Manali." "Rather than criticising the Congress party and its leaders, it would have been more constructive if she had addressed the significant disaster that occurred in Manali a few months ago, which is considered one of the biggest calamities of the century," Singh remarked. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress fields Vikramaditya Singh against Kangana Ranaut from Mandi in Himachal

The nomination process for the Lok Sabha polls for the third phase of the Lok Sabha is to be held in 94 constituencies across 12 States on May 7th and that has begun the process started after a notification was issued by the Election Commission on behalf of the President.

Lok Sabha election 2024: Nomination process begins for polls' third phase

In a blow to the ruling alliance in the Nagaland Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party leader James Kuotsu and former BJP leader Kidongam Panmei joined the Congress on Thursday.

Lok Sabha election 2024 | Nagaland: Two NDPP, BJP Leaders, join Congress

In the state of Tamil Nadu, currency notes have been distributed during an election campaign for the Congress's Virudhanagar candidate for the Lok Sabha elections Manickam Tagore in a video clip that was widely shared on social media platforms on Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu: Money distributed during a rally in Madurai

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) claimed that his party will fulfil the promises made in its poll manifesto of removing poverty from the nation. Gandhi said that as said, Congress would transfer Rs 100,000 into the account of one female from a poverty-stricken household. He didn't clarify how the party is planning to disburse the amount - yearly or monthly basis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an election rally on Thursday (Apr 11) in the western state of Rajasthan, Gandhi said, "The Congress Government will transfer Rs 1 lakh (in a year) to the bank account of one woman of every poor household in the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you are below the poverty line then every year, Rs 1 lakh (Rs 8,500 per month) khatakhat khatakhat aata rahega aur ek jhatke se hum Hindustan se gareebi ko mita denge," Rahul Gandhi said addressing a poll rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-hits-out-at-pakistan-says-take-help-from-india-if-incapable-of-eliminating-terrorism-710221">Rajnath Singh hits out at Pakistan, says take help from India if incapable of eliminating terrorism</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He also slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that farmers are asking for a minimum support price (MSP) for their crops, youngsters are seeking employment, and women want relief from inflation, but no one is listening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The 22 persons are more wealthy than the 70 crore people of India. Farmers are demanding MSP, youths are in grave need of employment, and women are asking for relief from price rises. PM Modi straightaway declines to give MSP calling farmers terrorists. Farmers are giving tax for the first time in the history of India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two biggest issues in the country right now are unemployment and inflation. They (BJP) don't talk about unemployment or inflation. Their work is to divert your attention. They don't want the issues of backward classes, farmers and the poor to be shown on national and regional media. You will see Narendra Modi's face in the media 24 hours a day. The job of the media is to raise the voice of the public, but their billionaire owners will not let them do so," he alleged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cbi-arrests-brs-leader-k-kavitha-over-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-710150">CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Anupgarh, Rajasthan: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi says, "...The Congress Government will transfer Rs 1 lakh (in a year) to the bank account of one woman of every poor household in the country...If you are below the poverty line then every year, Rs 1 lakh (Rs 8,500 per… <a href="https://t.co/6KMuvcwz10">pic.twitter.com/6KMuvcwz10</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1778364186814283813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Lok Sabha Election in Rajasthan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Rajasthan will go to the polls in the first two phases - April 19 and April 26. In the first phase, polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats will take place. While the remaining 13 seats will be polled in the second phase on April 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19 and the counting of the votes will be held on June 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) claimed that his party will fulfil the promises made in its poll manifesto of removing poverty from the nation.

Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) claimed that his party will fulfil the promises made in its poll manifesto of removing poverty from the nation. Gandhi said that as said, Congress would transfer Rs 100,000 into the account of one female from a poverty-stricken household. He didn't clarify how the party is planning to disburse the amount - yearly or monthly basis. During an election rally on Thursday (Apr 11) in the western state of Rajasthan, Gandhi said, "The Congress Government will transfer Rs 1 lakh (in a year) to the bank account of one woman of every poor household in the country." "If you are below the poverty line then every year, Rs 1 lakh (Rs 8,500 per month) khatakhat khatakhat aata rahega aur ek jhatke se hum Hindustan se gareebi ko mita denge," Rahul Gandhi said addressing a poll rally. Also read: Rajnath Singh hits out at Pakistan, says take help from India if incapable of eliminating terrorism He also slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that farmers are asking for a minimum support price (MSP) for their crops, youngsters are seeking employment, and women want relief from inflation, but no one is listening. He said, "The 22 persons are more wealthy than the 70 crore people of India. Farmers are demanding MSP, youths are in grave need of employment, and women are asking for relief from price rises. PM Modi straightaway declines to give MSP calling farmers terrorists. Farmers are giving tax for the first time in the history of India." "Two biggest issues in the country right now are unemployment and inflation. They (BJP) don't talk about unemployment or inflation. Their work is to divert your attention. They don't want the issues of backward classes, farmers and the poor to be shown on national and regional media. You will see Narendra Modi's face in the media 24 hours a day. The job of the media is to raise the voice of the public, but their billionaire owners will not let them do so," he alleged. Also read: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam Watch the video here: #WATCH | Anupgarh, Rajasthan: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi says, "...The Congress Government will transfer Rs 1 lakh (in a year) to the bank account of one woman of every poor household in the country...If you are below the poverty line then every year, Rs 1 lakh (Rs 8,500 per… pic.twitter.com/6KMuvcwz10 — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2024 × Lok Sabha Election in Rajasthan Rajasthan will go to the polls in the first two phases - April 19 and April 26. In the first phase, polling for 12 Lok Sabha seats will take place. While the remaining 13 seats will be polled in the second phase on April 26. The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19 and the counting of the votes will be held on June 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Rahul Gandhi claims Congress will 'erase poverty' in one go

The Congress party has released its poll manifesto becoming the first of the country's two major political parties to unveil its vision document for the next 5 years. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024: Decoding Congress' election manifesto

Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram Shashi Tharoor on Monday said he is ready to hold a debate with Union minister and BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who is contesting against him from the Kerala constituency.

India Election 2024: Shashi Tharoor agrees to an open debate offer by Rajeev Chandrashekhar

India Election 2024: Shashi Tharoor accepts rival Rajeev Chandrasekhar's challenge, welcomes debate

The Congress party has released its poll manifesto becoming the first of the country's two major political parties to unveil its Vision document for the next 5 years.

Congress releases election manifesto Nyay Patra, here are all the details

First-time voters reveal what their expectations are from the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Watch to know more.

Indian elections 2024: First-time voter from Chennai speaks to WION

Congress releases manifesto promises caste census

Congress releases manifesto titled 'Nyay Patra'

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<p><strong>Congress Manifesto 2024:</strong> The opposition Congress party in India on Friday (Apr 5) launched its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the manifesto launch event, senior Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram said, "The broad theme of the manifesto is justice. Every aspect of justice has been threatened, weakened in the last 10 years, especially in the last five years."</p>

<p>"I have always accused the BJP Govt and said that Modi Govt is the government of the rich, by the rich and for the rich. This Govt is driven only by the interests of the top 1% of this country but we have to look at the bottom 50%. The bottom 50% is as important as those who are well off. It has been estimated that 23 crore people are still poor in this country," Chidambaram added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Congress Party releases its manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, at AICC headquarters in Delhi.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/lNZETTLDLY">pic.twitter.com/lNZETTLDLY</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1776129085368115241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Congress Manifesto 2024 Full Details</strong></h2>

<p><strong>The manifesto launch came just two weeks before the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections would begin. <a href="file:///C:/Users/Harshit%20Sabarwal/Downloads/Congress%20Manifesto%20English%20Final.pdf">Here's a look at the top promises made by the Congress:</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>1)</strong> If it wins the general elections, the Congress has promised a legal guarantee to the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) announced by the government every year, as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission.</p>

<p><strong>2)</strong> The Congress will reserve one-half (50 per cent) of central government jobs for women starting in 2025.</p>

<p><strong>3)</strong> "Congress resolves to launch a Mahalakshmi scheme to provide Rs 1 lakh per year to every poor Indian family as an unconditional cash transfer. The poor will be identified among the families at the bottom of the income pyramid," the party manifesto said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On the Congress manifesto, party MP P Chidambaram says, "I have always accused the BJP Govt and said that Modi Govt is the government of the rich, by the rich and for the rich. This Govt is driven only by the interests of the top 1% of this country but we have to… <a href="https://t.co/bwCiUw9Cug">pic.twitter.com/bwCiUw9Cug</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1776133117755187696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>4)</strong> Following consultation, the Congress would bring a law to recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community.</p>

<p><strong>5)</strong> "Congress will ensure that, like every citizen, minorities have the freedom of choice of dress, food, language and personal laws. We will encourage the reform of personal laws. Such reform must be undertaken with the participation and consent of the communities concerned," the manifesto added.</p>

<p><strong>6)</strong> The Congress has also promised to abolish application fees for government examinations and government posts. "Due to widespread unemployment, as a one-time measure of relief, the amount due including unpaid interest as of 15 March 2024 in respect of all student educational loans will be written off and the banks will be compensated by the government," the manifesto said.</p>

<p><strong>7)</strong> Congress will ensure that, like every citizen, minorities have the freedom of choice of dress, food, language and personal laws.</p>

<p><strong>8)</strong> In the areas of national security, the Congress has promised to scrap the Modi government's Agnipath Scheme and return to the normal recruitment processes followed by the Army, Navy and Air Force that will guarantee economic and social security for the soldiers.</p>

<p><strong>9)</strong> "Congress is firmly opposed to extra-judicial illegal measures like mob lynching, police encounter killings and bulldozer justice. We will stop them immediately and punish the perpetrators in accordance with law," the manifesto said.</p>

<p><strong>10)</strong> Congress resolves to make India a manufacturing hub by raising the share of manufacturing from 14 per cent to 20 per cent of GDP in the next five years.</p>


Congress Manifesto 2024: The opposition Congress party in India on Friday (Apr 5) launched its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the manifesto launch event, senior Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram said, "The broad theme of the manifesto is justice.

Congress Manifesto 2024: The opposition Congress party in India on Friday (Apr 5) launched its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the manifesto launch event, senior Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram said, "The broad theme of the manifesto is justice. Every aspect of justice has been threatened, weakened in the last 10 years, especially in the last five years." "I have always accused the BJP Govt and said that Modi Govt is the government of the rich, by the rich and for the rich. This Govt is driven only by the interests of the top 1% of this country but we have to look at the bottom 50%. The bottom 50% is as important as those who are well off. It has been estimated that 23 crore people are still poor in this country," Chidambaram added. #WATCH | Congress Party releases its manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, at AICC headquarters in Delhi. #LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/lNZETTLDLY — ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2024 × Congress Manifesto 2024 Full Details The manifesto launch came just two weeks before the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections would begin. Here's a look at the top promises made by the Congress: 1) If it wins the general elections, the Congress has promised a legal guarantee to the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) announced by the government every year, as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission. 2) The Congress will reserve one-half (50 per cent) of central government jobs for women starting in 2025. 3) "Congress resolves to launch a Mahalakshmi scheme to provide Rs 1 lakh per year to every poor Indian family as an unconditional cash transfer. The poor will be identified among the families at the bottom of the income pyramid," the party manifesto said. #WATCH | Delhi: On the Congress manifesto, party MP P Chidambaram says, "I have always accused the BJP Govt and said that Modi Govt is the government of the rich, by the rich and for the rich. This Govt is driven only by the interests of the top 1% of this country but we have to… pic.twitter.com/bwCiUw9Cug — ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2024 × 4) Following consultation, the Congress would bring a law to recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. 5) "Congress will ensure that, like every citizen, minorities have the freedom of choice of dress, food, language and personal laws. We will encourage the reform of personal laws. Such reform must be undertaken with the participation and consent of the communities concerned," the manifesto added. 6) The Congress has also promised to abolish application fees for government examinations and government posts. "Due to widespread unemployment, as a one-time measure of relief, the amount due including unpaid interest as of 15 March 2024 in respect of all student educational loans will be written off and the banks will be compensated by the government," the manifesto said. 7) Congress will ensure that, like every citizen, minorities have the freedom of choice of dress, food, language and personal laws. 8) In the areas of national security, the Congress has promised to scrap the Modi government's Agnipath Scheme and return to the normal recruitment processes followed by the Army, Navy and Air Force that will guarantee economic and social security for the soldiers. 9) "Congress is firmly opposed to extra-judicial illegal measures like mob lynching, police encounter killings and bulldozer justice. We will stop them immediately and punish the perpetrators in accordance with law," the manifesto said. 10) Congress resolves to make India a manufacturing hub by raising the share of manufacturing from 14 per cent to 20 per cent of GDP in the next five years.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday filed his nomination papers for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. He also held a roadshow in Wayanad where he had won in the 2019 Parliament polls with a massive margin of over four lakh votes.

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