The Congress party convened its Central Election Committee (CEC) gathering at its New Delhi headquarters on Tuesday. At the session, news agency ANI citing informed sources said, the party concluded the selection of candidates for 12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal.

Meanwhile, party leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa stated, "We will convene another meeting tomorrow." He mentioned that the criteria for candidate selection remain unchanged. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah also affirmed, "Tomorrow, we will disclose our list of candidates."

Siddaramaiah's remark followed the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) gathering in Delhi on Tuesday. Karnataka contributes 28 members to the Lok Sabha. West Bengal has 42 Lok Sabha seats. Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress had announced candidates for all seats on March 10 even though&nbsp;the Congress and TMC are both part of the opposition's INDIA bloc.

The Congress party unveiled candidates for 82 out of the total 543 Lok Sabha seats. In its initial roster on March 8, the party disclosed 39 candidates, including prominent figures like Rahul Gandhi, DK Suresh, and Shashi Tharoor. Subsequently, the second list, released on March 12, featured names such as Gaurav Gogoi, Nakul Nath, and Vaibhav Gehlot.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-pashupati-kumar-paras-union-minister-who-resigned-after-poll-alliance-snub-in-bihar-701920">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Pashupati Kumar Paras, union minister who resigned after poll alliance snub in Bihar?</a>

<h2>Working committee meeting for poll manifesto approval</h2>

Earlier in the day, the Congress convened a session of its Working Committee, the apex decision-making body, to deliberate and sanction the party's manifesto for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Apart from ex-party heads Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, senior figures like Ambika Soni, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, P Chidambaram, Digvijaya Singh, Ajay Maken, and Kumari Selja were also present at the gathering.

"The Congress Working Committee (CWC) today extensively discussed the Congress Manifesto for 2024 elections. Since 1926, the Congress Party’s Manifesto has stood as a testament to trust and commitment," the party said in a post on X.

Following the meeting, Kharge tweeted, "The 5 pillars of #BharatJodoNyayYatra -&nbsp;Kisan Nyay, Yuva Nyay, Naari Nyay, Shramik Nyay and Hissedari Nyay have 5 guarantees each." He added, "Right from 1926, Congress Party’s Manifesto has been regarded as a "document of trust and commitment."

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi welcomes Bhutanese PM Dasho Tshering Tobgay

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The national Lok Sabha Elections are set to take place in seven phases starting from April 19. On April 19, the first phase of voting will take place, covering 102 parliamentary constituencies. Subsequently, the second phase, including 89 constituencies, will be held on April 26, followed by the third phase with 94 constituencies on May 7.

The voting for the fourth phase, covering 96 seats, is slated for May 13, followed by the fifth phase for 49 seats on May 20. On May 25, the sixth phase will see polling for 57 parliamentary constituencies, while the seventh and final phase, encompassing another 57 seats, is scheduled for June 1. The results will be announced on June 4.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Congress party convened its Central Election Committee (CEC) gathering at its New Delhi headquarters on Tuesday. At the session, news agency ANI citing informed sources said, the party concluded the selection of candidates for 12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal.

The Congress party convened its Central Election Committee (CEC) gathering at its New Delhi headquarters on Tuesday. At the session, news agency ANI citing informed sources said, the party concluded the selection of candidates for 12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal. Meanwhile, party leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa stated, "We will convene another meeting tomorrow." He mentioned that the criteria for candidate selection remain unchanged. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah also affirmed, "Tomorrow, we will disclose our list of candidates." Siddaramaiah's remark followed the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) gathering in Delhi on Tuesday. Karnataka contributes 28 members to the Lok Sabha. West Bengal has 42 Lok Sabha seats. Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress had announced candidates for all seats on March 10 even though the Congress and TMC are both part of the opposition's INDIA bloc. The Congress party unveiled candidates for 82 out of the total 543 Lok Sabha seats. In its initial roster on March 8, the party disclosed 39 candidates, including prominent figures like Rahul Gandhi, DK Suresh, and Shashi Tharoor. Subsequently, the second list, released on March 12, featured names such as Gaurav Gogoi, Nakul Nath, and Vaibhav Gehlot. Also read | Who is Pashupati Kumar Paras, union minister who resigned after poll alliance snub in Bihar? Working committee meeting for poll manifesto approval Earlier in the day, the Congress convened a session of its Working Committee, the apex decision-making body, to deliberate and sanction the party's manifesto for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. Apart from ex-party heads Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, senior figures like Ambika Soni, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, P Chidambaram, Digvijaya Singh, Ajay Maken, and Kumari Selja were also present at the gathering. "The Congress Working Committee (CWC) today extensively discussed the Congress Manifesto for 2024 elections. Since 1926, the Congress Party’s Manifesto has stood as a testament to trust and commitment," the party said in a post on X. Following the meeting, Kharge tweeted, "The 5 pillars of #BharatJodoNyayYatra - Kisan Nyay, Yuva Nyay, Naari Nyay, Shramik Nyay and Hissedari Nyay have 5 guarantees each." He added, "Right from 1926, Congress Party’s Manifesto has been regarded as a "document of trust and commitment." Also watch | Indian PM Modi welcomes Bhutanese PM Dasho Tshering Tobgay The national Lok Sabha Elections are set to take place in seven phases starting from April 19. On April 19, the first phase of voting will take place, covering 102 parliamentary constituencies. Subsequently, the second phase, including 89 constituencies, will be held on April 26, followed by the third phase with 94 constituencies on May 7. The voting for the fourth phase, covering 96 seats, is slated for May 13, followed by the fifth phase for 49 seats on May 20. On May 25, the sixth phase will see polling for 57 parliamentary constituencies, while the seventh and final phase, encompassing another 57 seats, is scheduled for June 1. The results will be announced on June 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress to release third Lok Sabha candidate list? Meeting held by Sonia Gandhi, Kharge

Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party.&nbsp;

"The trust shown by Rahul Gandhi and the blessings by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are enough for me, I don't want anything else," Yadav said. He completed the joining the formalities in New Delhi in the presence of spokesperson Pawan Khera and other senior Congress leaders.&nbsp;

"Along with Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress, we will try to stop the BJP in Bihar till our last breath," Yadav added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/startup-mahakumbh-2024-pm-modi-affirms-india-boasts-more-than-125000-startups-702259">Startup Mahakumbh 2024: PM Modi affirms India boasts more than 125,000 startups</a>&nbsp;

Pappu Yadav, a former five-time MP from Bihar and political heavyweight in the state, has also merged his party with the Congress providing a major boost to the opposition bloc.&nbsp;

Yadav is known for having influence in the Seemanchal area of the eastern state. His wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, is the Congress Rajya Sabha MP.&nbsp;

Yadav looked confident about the Lok Sabha election result as he said that the alliance will win the Lok Sabha election and the 2025 assembly elections.&nbsp;

"I thank my national president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. I will struggle to strengthen the Congress and work with all my might in this regard," Yadav added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Tussle for Tamil Nadu's Lok Sabha seats, PM Modi leading attack in DMK

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mk-stalins-dmk-releases-manifesto-list-of-candidates-for-lok-sabha-polls-702176">Lok Sabha polls: MK Stalin's DMK releases manifesto, list of candidates</a>

<h2>Danish Ali joins Congress&nbsp;</h2>

In another major development, Lok Sabha MP Danish Ali, who was suspended from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), also joined the Congress on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ali represents the Amroha constituency in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He recently met former Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in the national capital and sought her "blessings".&nbsp;

"Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear," Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party.

Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party. "The trust shown by Rahul Gandhi and the blessings by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are enough for me, I don't want anything else," Yadav said. He completed the joining the formalities in New Delhi in the presence of spokesperson Pawan Khera and other senior Congress leaders. "Along with Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress, we will try to stop the BJP in Bihar till our last breath," Yadav added. Also read: Startup Mahakumbh 2024: PM Modi affirms India boasts more than 125,000 startups Pappu Yadav, a former five-time MP from Bihar and political heavyweight in the state, has also merged his party with the Congress providing a major boost to the opposition bloc. Yadav is known for having influence in the Seemanchal area of the eastern state. His wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, is the Congress Rajya Sabha MP. Yadav looked confident about the Lok Sabha election result as he said that the alliance will win the Lok Sabha election and the 2025 assembly elections. "I thank my national president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. I will struggle to strengthen the Congress and work with all my might in this regard," Yadav added. Watch: Tussle for Tamil Nadu's Lok Sabha seats, PM Modi leading attack in DMK × Also read: Lok Sabha polls: MK Stalin's DMK releases manifesto, list of candidates Danish Ali joins Congress In another major development, Lok Sabha MP Danish Ali, who was suspended from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), also joined the Congress on Wednesday. Ali represents the Amroha constituency in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He recently met former Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in the national capital and sought her "blessings". "Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear," Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Pappu Yadav merges his Jan Adhikar Party with Congress

The Congress’ Central Election Committee on Tuesday cleared tickets to 16 Lok Sabha segments in Karnataka, which include children of five state Cabinet ministers.

India Elections | Karnataka: Congress 2024 Lok Sabha candidates' family first?

Karnataka: Congress fields ministers' children

The Congress Working Committee, the party's top decision-making body, held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss and approve the party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections.

India Election 2024: Congress working committee meets to approve manifesto

Meanwhile Congress allies are also not sparing any quarter Uddhav Thackeray has called BJP a termite damaging the country the leader has also urged people to prevent it from coming to power again for 'Sachche Din.' Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Uddhav Thackeray's 'Sachche Din' jibe at PM Modi

India Election 2024: Congress meeting to discuss party's manifesto

A row has broken out over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks. Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Opposition is fighting against a 'Shakti' after saying that there is a word 'Shakti' in Hinduism. What does the Congress leader mean? Does Rahul Gandhi understand what he says? Molly Gambhir gets you the complete story.

Gravitas: War of words over Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' remarks

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy on Monday (Mar 18) with his "Shakti" remarks during the closing ceremony of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming, Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly denounced Gandhi's comments. Responding to the backlash, Gandhi issued a clarification, accusing PM Modi for&nbsp;“twisting" his remarks.

“Modi ji does not like my words, he always tries to change their meaning by twisting them in some way or the other because he knows that I have spoken a deep truth. The&nbsp;Shakti that I mentioned, the Shakti that we are fighting, is the mask of that power, Modi ji," Rahul Gandhi said in a long post on X.

The occurrences led to Rahul Gandhi's address in Mumbai on Sunday, where he criticised the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Modi on multiple fronts, including allegations of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

“There is a word 'Shakti' (might) in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti (might of the state). The question is, what is that Shakti and what does it entail for us? The soul and integrity of EVMs have been traded to the King (Modi). This is a fact. Not just EVMs but every autonomous institution of the country, be it the ED, CBI or Income Tax department, have traded their spines to the Centre," Rahul Gandhi said at the closing ceremony of&nbsp;Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-modi-responds-to-rahuls-shakti-remark-jaan-ki-baazi-laga-dunga-701404">Also read |&nbsp;Lok Sabha elections 2024: Modi responds to Rahul’s ‘Shakti’ remark: ‘Jaan ki baazi laga dunga’</a>

<h2>‘Will sacrifice my life…’: PM Modi's sharp attack on Rahul Gandhi</h2>

Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi took aim at Rahul Gandhi's "Shakti" remark, asserting that while the Congress purports to oppose Shakti, he perceives every mother and daughter as manifestations of 'Shakti.'

Also watch |&nbsp;India Election 2024: PM Modi takes on Rahul Gandhi over 'Shakti' comment

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"They&nbsp;declared that their fight&nbsp;is against Shakti... for me, every daughter, mother, and sister is a personification of Shakti. To those who are raising their voices against Shakti, I accept your challenge. I am willing to sacrifice my life for Shakti," PM Modi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy on Monday (Mar 18) with his "Shakti" remarks during the closing ceremony of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy on Monday (Mar 18) with his "Shakti" remarks during the closing ceremony of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming, Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly denounced Gandhi's comments. Responding to the backlash, Gandhi issued a clarification, accusing PM Modi for “twisting" his remarks. “Modi ji does not like my words, he always tries to change their meaning by twisting them in some way or the other because he knows that I have spoken a deep truth. The Shakti that I mentioned, the Shakti that we are fighting, is the mask of that power, Modi ji," Rahul Gandhi said in a long post on X. The occurrences led to Rahul Gandhi's address in Mumbai on Sunday, where he criticised the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Modi on multiple fronts, including allegations of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). “There is a word 'Shakti' (might) in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti (might of the state). The question is, what is that Shakti and what does it entail for us? The soul and integrity of EVMs have been traded to the King (Modi). This is a fact. Not just EVMs but every autonomous institution of the country, be it the ED, CBI or Income Tax department, have traded their spines to the Centre," Rahul Gandhi said at the closing ceremony of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Also read | Lok Sabha elections 2024: Modi responds to Rahul’s ‘Shakti’ remark: ‘Jaan ki baazi laga dunga’ ‘Will sacrifice my life…’: PM Modi's sharp attack on Rahul Gandhi Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi took aim at Rahul Gandhi's "Shakti" remark, asserting that while the Congress purports to oppose Shakti, he perceives every mother and daughter as manifestations of 'Shakti.' Also watch | India Election 2024: PM Modi takes on Rahul Gandhi over 'Shakti' comment "They declared that their fight is against Shakti... for me, every daughter, mother, and sister is a personification of Shakti. To those who are raising their voices against Shakti, I accept your challenge. I am willing to sacrifice my life for Shakti," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Modi ji twisting ‘Shakti’ remark’: Rahul Gandhi clears stance on PM Modi’s ‘jaan ki baazi’ attack

The opposition I.N.D.I.A. alliance has finalised a seat sharing agreement in the Northeastern state of Tripura. The CPI(M)-Led Left will contest jointly with Indian National Congress. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: I.N.D.I.A. alliance seat sharing pact in Tripura

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and assembly elections in some states...Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar detailed the schedule & emphasized on the election process for the upcoming polls during a press briefing in Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi. Meanwhile, political party leaders have started campaigning for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections. Watch to know more!

India Elections 2024: Congress' Rahul Gandhi wraps up 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Mumbai

A day after the elections were announced in India, the political battle and fervor are up several notches. Political temperatures that are taking off will be at peak over the coming weeks. Prime minister Narendra Modi is in South India on a campaign Blitz. BJP sees victories in South India as vital to increasing its tally in the upcoming elections. Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: From Andhra to Maharashtra political rallies intensify across India

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra resumed from Palghar, Maharashtra today. Notably, Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra rolled out from Manipur’s Thoubal on January 14. It aims to cover 6,700 km through 15 states, with Lok Sabha polls around the corner.

India Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi resumes Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Palghar in Maharashtra

Patiala MP Preneet Kaur, who was suspended by the Congress in February 2023 due to alleged 'anti-party' activities, made a significant move on Thursday (March 14) by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Her decision, occurring on the brink of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections expected in April-May, marks a notable political shift.

Amidst the presence of prominent leaders, including Punjab unit chief Sunil Jakhar, who himself was formerly associated with the Congress, Kaur officially embraced her new party.

Addressing the media following her decision, she expressed her commitment to serving her constituency, state, and nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-gadkari-anurag-thakur-piyush-goyal-69-others-named-in-second-bjp-list-699756">Nitin Gadkari, Anurag Thakur, Piyush Goyal, 69 others named in second BJP list</a>

Preferring not to dwell on past events, Kaur reflected on her tenure with the Congress, acknowledging it as a positive experience while expressing hopes for a more fruitful journey with the BJP.&nbsp;

Regarding her potential participation in the upcoming general elections, Kaur deferred decision-making to her new party.

It is worth noting that Kaur has&nbsp;familial ties to the BJP, as her spouse is the prominent BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh.&nbsp;

Singh, who had previously served as Punjab chief minister with the Congress, later founded the Punjab Lok Congress (PLC) in November 2021, ultimately merging it with the BJP in September 2022.

Additionally, Kaur's daughter, Jai Inder Kaur, is also affiliated with the BJP, sparking speculation that she may contest from the Patiala constituency.

In a separate development, Kaur drew attention in December of the preceding year when she voted in favour of expelling Trinamool Congress's Mahua Moitra from the Lok Sabha on charges related to cash-for-query allegations.&nbsp;

Notably, Kaur, as the sole opposition member on the ethics committee, supported Moitra's expulsion, resulting in Moitra's subsequent loss of membership in the House.

Meanwhile on Wednesday, Bharatiya Janata Party released its second list of candidates. A total of 72 candidates, including Union ministers Nitin Gadkari (Nagpur), Anurag Thakur (Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh), and Piyush Goyal (Mumbai north) were named in the second list of the BJP candidates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points</a>

BJP had announced 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the first list on March 2 and has now declared names of its 267 contestants in total.

The BJP released the first list of 195 candidates on March 2.

(With inputs from agencies)

Patiala MP Preneet Kaur, who was suspended by the Congress in February 2023 due to alleged 'anti-party' activities, made a significant move on Thursday (March 14) by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Patiala MP Preneet Kaur, who was suspended by the Congress in February 2023 due to alleged 'anti-party' activities, made a significant move on Thursday (March 14) by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Her decision, occurring on the brink of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections expected in April-May, marks a notable political shift. Amidst the presence of prominent leaders, including Punjab unit chief Sunil Jakhar, who himself was formerly associated with the Congress, Kaur officially embraced her new party. Addressing the media following her decision, she expressed her commitment to serving her constituency, state, and nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: Nitin Gadkari, Anurag Thakur, Piyush Goyal, 69 others named in second BJP list Preferring not to dwell on past events, Kaur reflected on her tenure with the Congress, acknowledging it as a positive experience while expressing hopes for a more fruitful journey with the BJP. Regarding her potential participation in the upcoming general elections, Kaur deferred decision-making to her new party. It is worth noting that Kaur has familial ties to the BJP, as her spouse is the prominent BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh. Singh, who had previously served as Punjab chief minister with the Congress, later founded the Punjab Lok Congress (PLC) in November 2021, ultimately merging it with the BJP in September 2022. Additionally, Kaur's daughter, Jai Inder Kaur, is also affiliated with the BJP, sparking speculation that she may contest from the Patiala constituency. In a separate development, Kaur drew attention in December of the preceding year when she voted in favour of expelling Trinamool Congress's Mahua Moitra from the Lok Sabha on charges related to cash-for-query allegations. Notably, Kaur, as the sole opposition member on the ethics committee, supported Moitra's expulsion, resulting in Moitra's subsequent loss of membership in the House. Meanwhile on Wednesday, Bharatiya Janata Party released its second list of candidates. A total of 72 candidates, including Union ministers Nitin Gadkari (Nagpur), Anurag Thakur (Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh), and Piyush Goyal (Mumbai north) were named in the second list of the BJP candidates. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points BJP had announced 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the first list on March 2 and has now declared names of its 267 contestants in total. The BJP released the first list of 195 candidates on March 2. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Former Punjab CM’s wife Preneet Kaur joins BJP, eyes Patiala contest

In Congress, Robert Hur the Justice Department Special Council assigned to report on Joe Biden's possession of classified documents testified in front of the House Judiciary Committee. In his statement, Hur defended his report and told Congress that he was doing his job when he criticized Biden's memory however during the hearing, Hur tried to avoid GOP attempts to slam Biden's age.

US: Robert Hur defends remarks on Biden's memory

Amid the seat-sharing discussion, the Congress party has allegedly demanded as many as 15 out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats to contest in Bihar. However, the final consensus between the Congress and the RJD is yet to be reached on seat-sharing. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: Congress, RJD discuss seat-sharing in Bihar

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that he might not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, citing his age as a factor influencing this decision. Kharge was the MP from Karnataka's Gulbarga from 2009-2014 and had lost from the same seat in 2019.

India Elections 2024: Mallikarjun Kharge to not contest in Lok Sabha polls?

Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024, the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) on Tuesday, released the second list of candidates including former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's son - Vaibhav Gehlot - and son of Kamal Nath - Nakul Nath - in the list.

India: Congress releases 2nd list of candidates, 43 names include Vaibhav Gehlot & Nakul Nath | WION

The Gandhi family of India is one of the most prominent political dynasties anywhere in the world and equally de-rooted. The generations of the family has fought and won elections from the state of UP but what about this time?

Gravitas: Is the Gandhi-hold ending on UP seats?; No decision yet on Rahul's candidature from Amethi

Indian Election Commission's announcement of the general election schedule is still some days away, but the ruling BJP's election machinery has already run in Top Gear. Late last week the party put out its first list of nearly 200 candidates who will be hitting the campaign Trail. The opposition Congress on the other hand is lagging behind.

General Elections 2024: BJP, Congress discuss second list of candidates

India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country.&nbsp;

The party warned that if this trend is not halted, democracy will be supplanted by dictatorship.&nbsp;

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, said, "Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only one Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in a few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do not stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our democracy shall be usurped by dictatorship."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-first-list-of-39-candidates-for-lok-sabha-elections-rahul-gandhi-to-contest-from-wayanad-698114">Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates, Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad</a>

"The ECI will now be among the last Constitutional institutions to fall. Since the new process of selecting the Election Commissioners has now effectively given all the power to the ruling party and the PM, why has the new Election Commissioner not appointed even after 23 days of the completion of latter's tenure? Modi government must answer these questions and come out with a reasonable explanation," added the Congress president.

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Election Commission or Election OMISSION? 
 
India now has only ONE Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in few days. Why? 
 
As I have said earlier, if we do NOT stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our DEMOCRACY shall…
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1766514087188435427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Questions loom over Goel's resignation</h2>

The sudden resignation of India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel days before the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates has raised many eyebrows.

Although, in his resignation letter,&nbsp;Goel stated "personal reasons", it was reported by NDTV that his differences with the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar may have led to the exit.

On Saturday (Mar 9), Arun Goel resigned days before the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was to be announced.

He was to remain as the Election Commissioner till December 5, 2027, and would have taken the place of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) after the retirement of incumbent Rajiv Kumar in February of next year.

The Election Commission of India consists of a poll panel that has three members. One of the position was vacant, and with&nbsp;Goel's resignation,&nbsp;Kumar&nbsp;remains the only person&nbsp;on the poll panel.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;List of Congress candidates likely to be declared this week: Reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/list-of-congress-candidates-likely-to-be-declared-this-week-reports-697271/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per&nbsp;media reports, the Lok Sabha election dates are set to be announced next week by the Election Commission. However, the unexpected departure of Goel has cast doubt on the earlier anticipated timeline.

The lack of transparency in the Election Commission was also criticised by Congress leader KC Venugopal.&nbsp;

"This is quite shocking; just before the declaration of elections, the Election Commissioner has resigned. Now, only one Election Commissioner is there... What is happening in this Election Commission? The entire country is anxious. The government of India doesn't want a free and fair election," said the Congress general secretary.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, also raised question on the unexpected resignation and said that the Election Commission of India is not an autonomous watchdog anymore.&nbsp;

"Whether the ECI exists or not, it has no meaning especially after how it has given orders under BJP's pressure in the cases of Shiv Sena and NCP splits, completely in violation of the 10th schedule," said Raut. "The ECI is not the autonomous watchdog it used to be in the time of TN Seshan, but works as an extended branch of the BJP," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country.

India's opposition party Congress, reacting over India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel's resignation, expressed "deep concern" over the sudden step and warned against the dangerous trend of independent institutions' systematic erosion in the country. The party warned that if this trend is not halted, democracy will be supplanted by dictatorship. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, said, "Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only one Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in a few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do not stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our democracy shall be usurped by dictatorship." Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates, Rahul Gandhi to contest from Wayanad "The ECI will now be among the last Constitutional institutions to fall. Since the new process of selecting the Election Commissioners has now effectively given all the power to the ruling party and the PM, why has the new Election Commissioner not appointed even after 23 days of the completion of latter's tenure? Modi government must answer these questions and come out with a reasonable explanation," added the Congress president. Election Commission or Election OMISSION? India now has only ONE Election Commissioner, even as Lok Sabha elections are to be announced in few days. Why? As I have said earlier, if we do NOT stop the systematic decimation of our independent institutions, our DEMOCRACY shall… — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) March 9, 2024 × Questions loom over Goel's resignation The sudden resignation of India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel days before the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates has raised many eyebrows. Although, in his resignation letter, Goel stated "personal reasons", it was reported by NDTV that his differences with the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar may have led to the exit. On Saturday (Mar 9), Arun Goel resigned days before the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was to be announced. He was to remain as the Election Commissioner till December 5, 2027, and would have taken the place of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) after the retirement of incumbent Rajiv Kumar in February of next year. The Election Commission of India consists of a poll panel that has three members. One of the position was vacant, and with Goel's resignation, Kumar remains the only person on the poll panel. Watch: List of Congress candidates likely to be declared this week: Reports As per media reports, the Lok Sabha election dates are set to be announced next week by the Election Commission. However, the unexpected departure of Goel has cast doubt on the earlier anticipated timeline. The lack of transparency in the Election Commission was also criticised by Congress leader KC Venugopal. "This is quite shocking; just before the declaration of elections, the Election Commissioner has resigned. Now, only one Election Commissioner is there... What is happening in this Election Commission? The entire country is anxious. The government of India doesn't want a free and fair election," said the Congress general secretary. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, also raised question on the unexpected resignation and said that the Election Commission of India is not an autonomous watchdog anymore. "Whether the ECI exists or not, it has no meaning especially after how it has given orders under BJP's pressure in the cases of Shiv Sena and NCP splits, completely in violation of the 10th schedule," said Raut. "The ECI is not the autonomous watchdog it used to be in the time of TN Seshan, but works as an extended branch of the BJP," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

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His sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is expected to commence her political career by contesting from Rae Bareli, the party's stronghold in Uttar Pradesh which was held by her mother Sonia Gandhi, reported Zee News citing the official.&nbsp;

<h2>Awaiting central leadership confirmation</h2>

Though Congress District President Pradeep&nbsp;Singhal&nbsp;shared the news, there has been no official statement from the party's central leadership regarding Gandhi's candidacy.

The Central Election Committee meeting of the party, where such decisions are typically finalised, is yet to be convened. As a result, while Singhal's affirmation carries weight locally, the official confirmation from the central leadership is still pending.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-prime-minister-modi-inaugurates-17-kilometre-extension-of-delhi-ghaziabad-meerut-rrts-corridor-697102">Also read |&nbsp;India Prime Minister Modi inaugurates 17-kilometre extension of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor</a>

Rahul Gandhi, former president of the Congress party, has a longstanding political association with Amethi, having represented the constituency in Parliament from 2002 until 2019. However, in the 2019 general elections, he faced defeat at the hands of BJP's Smriti Irani. That year, Gandhi had also contested the Lok Sabha seat from Wayanad in Kerala and had won the election from there.

The announcement about Gandhi's candidacy in Amethi by a local party leader adds to the ongoing speculation surrounding his political engagements and future plans within the Congress party.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Gautam Gambhir not to contest Lok Sabha elections from BJP | Lok Sabha Polls 2024

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gautam-gambhir-not-to-contest-lok-sabha-elections-from-bjp-lok-sabha-polls-2024-695921/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With the anticipation of the Central Election Committee meeting and an official announcement, the political landscape in Amethi awaits further clarity on Gandhi's electoral participation.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Congress leader from Uttar Pradesh reportedly confirmed on Wednesday (Mar 6) that Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the party, will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Amethi, a constituency he has represented multiple times since 2002 till he lost it in 2019.

A Congress leader from Uttar Pradesh reportedly confirmed on Wednesday (Mar 6) that Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the party, will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Amethi, a constituency he has represented multiple times since 2002 till he lost it in 2019. Gandhi will also fight from his Wayanad seat in Kerala, according to the reports. His sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is expected to commence her political career by contesting from Rae Bareli, the party's stronghold in Uttar Pradesh which was held by her mother Sonia Gandhi, reported Zee News citing the official. Awaiting central leadership confirmation Though Congress District President Pradeep Singhal shared the news, there has been no official statement from the party's central leadership regarding Gandhi's candidacy. The Central Election Committee meeting of the party, where such decisions are typically finalised, is yet to be convened. As a result, while Singhal's affirmation carries weight locally, the official confirmation from the central leadership is still pending. Also read | India Prime Minister Modi inaugurates 17-kilometre extension of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor Rahul Gandhi, former president of the Congress party, has a longstanding political association with Amethi, having represented the constituency in Parliament from 2002 until 2019. However, in the 2019 general elections, he faced defeat at the hands of BJP's Smriti Irani. That year, Gandhi had also contested the Lok Sabha seat from Wayanad in Kerala and had won the election from there. The announcement about Gandhi's candidacy in Amethi by a local party leader adds to the ongoing speculation surrounding his political engagements and future plans within the Congress party. Also watch | India: Gautam Gambhir not to contest Lok Sabha elections from BJP | Lok Sabha Polls 2024 With the anticipation of the Central Election Committee meeting and an official announcement, the political landscape in Amethi awaits further clarity on Gandhi's electoral participation. (With inputs from agencies)

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