Amid reports of differences cropping up between various parties in the INDIA bloc, the alliance has decided to reschedule the meeting of party heads to the third week of December. Earlier Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had called a meeting of the INDIA bloc leaders for December 6. Instead, the 14-member coordination panel will meet at Mr. Kharge’s residence on Wednesday.

Congress postpones I.N.D.I.A alliance meet after key leaders decide to skip

The 2024 national elections is about six months away. And even though we keep hearing that state elections have no bearing on general polls... Changing this trend is the BJP supremo - Narendra Modi. While Sunday's results are making political pundits remove their spectacles - and rethink their understanding of elections, they also think that the prime minister is bridging the gap between two different elections.

BJP'S victory in 3 Indian states sets the stage for 2024 elections

Madhya Pradesh's state Assembly elections saw the Bharatiya Janata Party pull off a historic victory, retaining power in the state. The BJP secured 163 seats in the 230-member Assembly, while the Congress could only muster 66 seats. Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan said that despite the BJP's historic victory in the state, there was no anti-incumbency sentiment in Madhya Pradesh.

Assembly elections: BJP to hold power independently in 12 states, in coalition in 4 others

Assembly Elections Result 2023 LIVE: The results of legislative assembly elections of four Indian states, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana, will be out on Sunday (Dec 3).

Assembly Elections Result 2023: Constituency-wise list of candidates from INC, BJP and other political parties

<p>As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;leads&nbsp;in the election&nbsp;results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports.<br />
<br />
INDIA bloc's next meeting, which has been called by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Wednesday, is likely to sketch plans for next year's Lok Sabha election, reported&nbsp;the NDTV.<br />
<br />
The news of a meeting by the INDIA bloc comes as Congress is trailing by a huge margin against&nbsp;its rival BJP in all the above three states -&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, according to the latest trends.&nbsp;Telangana is the only state where the Congress is likely to emerge victorious defeating the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi of K Chandrasekhar Rao.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-assembly-elections-2023-results-live-updates-check-mp-constituency-wise-winner-loser-candidates-665565">Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023 Results Live Updates: BJP maintains healthy lead as see-saw game continues</a></p>

<p>The meeting is scheduled amid reports regarding turbulence and internal rifts in the bloc and its dangling future.</p>

<h2><strong>Is INDIA alliance drifting apart or uniting for future battles?</strong></h2>

<p>The rifts within the bloc came under focus earlier this month after Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who is considered as INDIA alliance's founding member, accused the Congress of lacking&nbsp;in preparation for the crucial general election to be held next year.<br />
<br />
"We have been speaking to them... pushing them forward in the INDIA alliance. But, of late, there has not been much progress on that front. The Congress seems to be more interested in the five assembly polls. We agreed to assign Congress the leading role. But it appears they will call the next meeting only after they are through with the state elections," Kumar was quoted as saying by NDTV.<br />
<br />
The last meeting of the INDIA bloc was held from August 31 to September 1 in Mumbai after which the next date was set to be announced by the Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead</strong></p>

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<p>The alliance had then stated that it planned to contest the 2024 election along with the current state elections "together as far as possible". However, the resolution had raised eyebrows and questions over the unity of the opposition as it tries to push&nbsp;hard to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from winning an unprecedented third term.<br />
<br />
The comment of Nitish Kumar had surfaced after a squabble between the Congress and Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav over seat-sharing in Madhya Pradesh, as per reports. Yadav had said that the party had ignored a gentleman's agreement.<br />
<br />
"If I knew, wouldn't have spoken to Congress," said the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Samajwadi Party chief.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leads in the election results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports.

As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leads in the election results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports. INDIA bloc's next meeting, which has been called by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Wednesday, is likely to sketch plans for next year's Lok Sabha election, reported the NDTV. The news of a meeting by the INDIA bloc comes as Congress is trailing by a huge margin against its rival BJP in all the above three states - Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, according to the latest trends. Telangana is the only state where the Congress is likely to emerge victorious defeating the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi of K Chandrasekhar Rao. Also read: Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023 Results Live Updates: BJP maintains healthy lead as see-saw game continues The meeting is scheduled amid reports regarding turbulence and internal rifts in the bloc and its dangling future. Is INDIA alliance drifting apart or uniting for future battles? The rifts within the bloc came under focus earlier this month after Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who is considered as INDIA alliance's founding member, accused the Congress of lacking in preparation for the crucial general election to be held next year. "We have been speaking to them... pushing them forward in the INDIA alliance. But, of late, there has not been much progress on that front. The Congress seems to be more interested in the five assembly polls. We agreed to assign Congress the leading role. But it appears they will call the next meeting only after they are through with the state elections," Kumar was quoted as saying by NDTV. The last meeting of the INDIA bloc was held from August 31 to September 1 in Mumbai after which the next date was set to be announced by the Congress. Watch: Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead The alliance had then stated that it planned to contest the 2024 election along with the current state elections "together as far as possible". However, the resolution had raised eyebrows and questions over the unity of the opposition as it tries to push hard to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from winning an unprecedented third term. The comment of Nitish Kumar had surfaced after a squabble between the Congress and Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav over seat-sharing in Madhya Pradesh, as per reports. Yadav had said that the party had ignored a gentleman's agreement. "If I knew, wouldn't have spoken to Congress," said the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Samajwadi Party chief. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian assembly election results: BJP's lead in three states prompts Cong to call INDIA bloc meet - Report

Join us for a detailed analysis of the Indian state assembly polls 2023. Which way is the wind blowing? Will the BJP-led NDA dominate? Or will the Congress emerge as a serious challenger? And how will it influence the opposition India alliance? WION brings you all that you need to know.

India state elections exit polls: Decoding the mood and the mandate

Three political parties are eyeing to form the government in Telangana. Parties pitch promises on issues of agriculture, employment and infrastructure.

BRS, Congress and BJP face off in Telangana

<p>As India readies for the upcoming Telangana Legislative Assembly election, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Monday launched a scathing attack on opponents.</p>

<p>Hitting out at the Southern Indian state's Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), he claimed that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader was trying to strike up a friendship with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<h2><strong>A realisation of might</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking at a rally in Mahabubabad, Modi said that KCR's party was trying to strike up a friendship with his party, the BJP.</p>

<p>"KCR realised the increasing power of BJP much earlier. For a long time, he was making an effort to strike a friendship with the BJP," said Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-visits-tirupati-shrine-all-set-to-hold-mega-road-show-in-hyderabad-663236">India: PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine, all set to hold mega road show in Hyderabad</a></strong></p>

<p>He further claimed that "once, when he came to Delhi, KCR met me and made the same request. But BJP can never work against the wishes of the people of Telangana."</p>

<p>"Ever since BJP turned down KCR, BRS has been baffled. The party doesn't lose any opportunity to abuse me. BRS knows that Modi will never let it anywhere near BJP. This is Modi's guarantee," he added, as quoted by ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>A reiteration</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Hindustan Times, this is not the first time that PM Modi has made such claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, in October, speaking at a rally in Nizamabad, he said that K Chandrasekhar Rao had visited him in Delhi. There, as per Modi, KCR expressed his wish to join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Reportedly, this meeting, as per Modi, took place after BJP won 48 seats in the 2020 Hyderabad municipal polls.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-five-state-elections-after-hindi-heartland-bjp-banks-on-pm-modis-popularity-in-telangana-663146">India five-state elections: After Hindi heartland, BJP banks on PM Modi's popularity in Telangana</a></strong></p>

<p>"After the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation elections, KCR came to meet me in Delhi and said that he wanted to join NDA. He also asked me to extend support to him. I told him (KCR) that due to his deeds, Modi cannot be associated with him," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>A scathing attack</strong></h2>

<p>Launching an attack at opposition, Modi called the Telangana CM and Congress "equal sinners". He said that both BRS and Congress indulge in appeasement on the basis of religion and boosted corruption.</p>

<p>"Both Congress and KCR are equal sinners in destroying Telangana. So, the people of Telangana can't let in another disease after ousting one - I have seen this everywhere in the state. The trust of Telangana is in the BJP. You have determined that the next CM of Telangana will be from BJP. The BJP has promised you that the first BJP CM in Telangana will be from the BC community (Backward Class)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vowing that the BJP government will look into all the scams of KCR, he said that the part considers it its responsibility to bring Telangana out of the clutches of BRS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India readies for the upcoming Telangana Legislative Assembly election, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Monday launched a scathing attack on opponents. Hitting out at the Southern Indian state's Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), he claimed that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader was trying to strike up a friendship with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

As India readies for the upcoming Telangana Legislative Assembly election, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Monday launched a scathing attack on opponents. Hitting out at the Southern Indian state's Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), he claimed that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader was trying to strike up a friendship with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A realisation of might Speaking at a rally in Mahabubabad, Modi said that KCR's party was trying to strike up a friendship with his party, the BJP. "KCR realised the increasing power of BJP much earlier. For a long time, he was making an effort to strike a friendship with the BJP," said Modi. Also read | India: PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine, all set to hold mega road show in Hyderabad He further claimed that "once, when he came to Delhi, KCR met me and made the same request. But BJP can never work against the wishes of the people of Telangana." "Ever since BJP turned down KCR, BRS has been baffled. The party doesn't lose any opportunity to abuse me. BRS knows that Modi will never let it anywhere near BJP. This is Modi's guarantee," he added, as quoted by ANI. A reiteration As per the Hindustan Times, this is not the first time that PM Modi has made such claims. Previously, in October, speaking at a rally in Nizamabad, he said that K Chandrasekhar Rao had visited him in Delhi. There, as per Modi, KCR expressed his wish to join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Reportedly, this meeting, as per Modi, took place after BJP won 48 seats in the 2020 Hyderabad municipal polls. Also read | India five-state elections: After Hindi heartland, BJP banks on PM Modi's popularity in Telangana "After the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation elections, KCR came to meet me in Delhi and said that he wanted to join NDA. He also asked me to extend support to him. I told him (KCR) that due to his deeds, Modi cannot be associated with him," he said. A scathing attack Launching an attack at opposition, Modi called the Telangana CM and Congress "equal sinners". He said that both BRS and Congress indulge in appeasement on the basis of religion and boosted corruption. "Both Congress and KCR are equal sinners in destroying Telangana. So, the people of Telangana can't let in another disease after ousting one - I have seen this everywhere in the state. The trust of Telangana is in the BJP. You have determined that the next CM of Telangana will be from BJP. The BJP has promised you that the first BJP CM in Telangana will be from the BC community (Backward Class)." Vowing that the BJP government will look into all the scams of KCR, he said that the part considers it its responsibility to bring Telangana out of the clutches of BRS. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi launches scathing attack on opponents in Telangana, calls BRS and Congress 'equal sinners'

While election campaigning is at a fever pitch in the Indian state of Rajasthan a day before the close of campaigning for the state polls on Saturday. On Tuesday the Congress party announced his election promises for the state.

Rajasthan polls: Youth puts concerns above party favouritism

In the lead-up to the seventh round of the state elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress unleash their political artillery in the electoral battleground of Rajasthan, setting off a fierce verbal duel. WION's correspondent Ananya Dutta brings you ground reality of rural Rajasthan.

Rajasthan Assembly Elections: Rural Rajasthan still struggling for basic amenities | Ground report

In the lead-up to the seventh round of the state elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress unleash their political artillery in the electoral battleground of Rajasthan, setting off a fierce verbal duel.

Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: BJP leaving no stone unturned to make a comeback | Ground report

Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: PM Modi's mega Rajasthan roadshow

Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: Ruling Congress and Opposition BJP lock horns in the state

India: Rajasthan gears up for elections

Political battle in India's Rajasthan heats up

India will witness crucial State Assembly elections as two of India's largest states will be heading to the polls in less than 15 days. Madhya Pradesh on the 17th of November Rajasthan on the 25th of November. The two main National Parties Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party and the main rival the Indian National Congress are also pitching against each other.

India: Madhya Pradesh gears up for polls, voting to place on Nov 17

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Nov 4) slammed the Congress party, alleging that it has never left any opportunity to loot the people of Chhattisgarh. PM Modi's verbal attack came after Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel was named in the alleged betting app deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at a rally in Durg, the prime minister asked for answers from the Congress party, stating that it must respond to what links it has with people in Dubai who were accused of the scam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Congress party's Chhattisgarh government has left no opportunity to loot you. They did not leave even the name of 'Mahadev'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Two days back, a big operation took place in Raipur. A huge cache of currency notes was found. People say that the money belongs to gamblers and the placing bets... Congress leaders are filling their houses with this looted money. You can see in media reports that to whom its links go back to," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister said, "State government and the CM should tell the people of Chhattisgarh what links they have with the people sitting in Dubai who are accused of this scam."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-telephonic-conversation-with-uae-president-over-ongoing-situation-in-west-asia-654882">PM Modi holds telephonic conversation with UAE President over ongoing situation in West Asia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He claimed that in the aftermath of the money being seized, the chief minister is baffled and has come to the ground. "I have heard that local leaders are sending us a message that money will be planted on our leaders and Police will be sent," the PM said.</p>

<p>Vowing to take strict action, PM Modi asserted that agencies would probe all scams in the state. He said, "Action will indeed be taken against those who looted Chhattisgarh. Account for every penny will be taken from them. Chhattisgarh's corrupt government has broken your trust with one scam after the other."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Liquor scam of Rs 2000 crore, Cement scam of Rs 500 crore, Rice scam of Rs 5 thousand crore, Gauthan scam of Rs 1,300 crore, DMF scam of Rs 700 crore. Congress has not left any opportunity to loot Chhattisgarh. But I assure you that after the BJP government assumes office in the state, such scams will be strictly investigated and those who loot your money will be sent to jail," the PM further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"PSC and Mahadev App scam are already in the news, there is no dearth of scams in the report card of the Congress government," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also alleged that the priority of Congress is to distribute jobs to the leaders' kin and to exclude the public from jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-uk-counterpart-discusses-israel-hamas-war-progress-on-fta-654947">Indian PM Modi, UK counterpart Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war, progress on FTA</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Parties Move to Pacify Rebels Ahead of Key State Assembly Polls | India State Assembly Polls&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Baghel hits back. What is the case all about?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Baghel hit back at the BJP questioning and asked why the Central government had not banned the Mahadev betting app till now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Enforcement Directorate claimed that the Chief Minister of the poll-bound state allegedly paid Rs 508 crore (around $60 million) to Mahadev app promoters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ED on Friday said that they have intercepted a cash courier Asim Das who was sent from UAE especially, to deliver a large amount of cash for electioneering expenses of the ruling Congress party in Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The central agency added that the arrested person, Asim Das, confessed that Rs 508 crore has been so far paid to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister by Mahadev APP Promoters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Nov 4) slammed the Congress party, alleging that it has never left any opportunity to loot the people of Chhattisgarh. PM Modi's verbal attack came after Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel was named in the alleged betting app deal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Nov 4) slammed the Congress party, alleging that it has never left any opportunity to loot the people of Chhattisgarh. PM Modi's verbal attack came after Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel was named in the alleged betting app deal. While speaking at a rally in Durg, the prime minister asked for answers from the Congress party, stating that it must respond to what links it has with people in Dubai who were accused of the scam. He said, "Congress party's Chhattisgarh government has left no opportunity to loot you. They did not leave even the name of 'Mahadev'." "Two days back, a big operation took place in Raipur. A huge cache of currency notes was found. People say that the money belongs to gamblers and the placing bets... Congress leaders are filling their houses with this looted money. You can see in media reports that to whom its links go back to," he added. The Indian prime minister said, "State government and the CM should tell the people of Chhattisgarh what links they have with the people sitting in Dubai who are accused of this scam." Also read: PM Modi holds telephonic conversation with UAE President over ongoing situation in West Asia He claimed that in the aftermath of the money being seized, the chief minister is baffled and has come to the ground. "I have heard that local leaders are sending us a message that money will be planted on our leaders and Police will be sent," the PM said. Vowing to take strict action, PM Modi asserted that agencies would probe all scams in the state. He said, "Action will indeed be taken against those who looted Chhattisgarh. Account for every penny will be taken from them. Chhattisgarh's corrupt government has broken your trust with one scam after the other." "Liquor scam of Rs 2000 crore, Cement scam of Rs 500 crore, Rice scam of Rs 5 thousand crore, Gauthan scam of Rs 1,300 crore, DMF scam of Rs 700 crore. Congress has not left any opportunity to loot Chhattisgarh. But I assure you that after the BJP government assumes office in the state, such scams will be strictly investigated and those who loot your money will be sent to jail," the PM further said. "PSC and Mahadev App scam are already in the news, there is no dearth of scams in the report card of the Congress government," he added. PM Modi also alleged that the priority of Congress is to distribute jobs to the leaders' kin and to exclude the public from jobs. Also read: Indian PM Modi, UK counterpart Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war, progress on FTA Watch: Parties Move to Pacify Rebels Ahead of Key State Assembly Polls | India State Assembly Polls × Baghel hits back. What is the case all about? Baghel hit back at the BJP questioning and asked why the Central government had not banned the Mahadev betting app till now. The Enforcement Directorate claimed that the Chief Minister of the poll-bound state allegedly paid Rs 508 crore (around $60 million) to Mahadev app promoters. ED on Friday said that they have intercepted a cash courier Asim Das who was sent from UAE especially, to deliver a large amount of cash for electioneering expenses of the ruling Congress party in Chhattisgarh. The central agency added that the arrested person, Asim Das, confessed that Rs 508 crore has been so far paid to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister by Mahadev APP Promoters. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches scathing attack on Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel after ED links him to betting app deal

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress have reached out to rebels to foil possible attempts to upset their apple cart in the upcoming Assembly elections. Concerned that party rebels could dent its performance in the Hindi heartland states

Parties Move to Pacify Rebels Ahead of Key State Assembly Polls | India State Assembly Polls

<p>The body of a 28-year-old man was found hanging at his residence at Chorwad village in Gujarat’s Junagadh district which police suspect is a case of suicide, an official said on Sunday.</p>

<p>A purported suicide note found in the possession of the deceased stated that he was taking the extreme step due to his in-laws and a Congress MLA.</p>

<p>Police inspector KM Gadhvi said the body of Nitin Parmar was found hanging from the ceiling of his house on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.</p>

<p>“Prima facie it is a case of suicide. The postmortem report to ascertain the exact cause of his death is awaited. The suicide note is under forensic investigation,” Gadhvi said.</p>

<p>He said the police also recovered a purported suicide note from Parmar’s possession which mentioned three names, including his father-in-law and mother-in-law, and MLA Vimal Chudasama.</p>

<p>Acknowledging that the deceased Parmar was his relative, Chudasama alleged it seemed to be a case of murder but shown as suicide in a conspiracy to defame him.</p>

<p>“The man who mentioned my name in the suicide note has not interacted with me in the last two years. He is the son of my aunt. Looking at the injury marks on his body, his family believes that he has been murdered. I think the suicide note is a conspiracy against me. The letter is not in his handwriting. This is a conspiracy by my competitor to defame me,” the Congress MLA told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

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The body of a 28-year-old man was found hanging at his residence at Chorwad village in Gujarat’s Junagadh district which police suspect is a case of suicide, an official said on Sunday.

The body of a 28-year-old man was found hanging at his residence at Chorwad village in Gujarat’s Junagadh district which police suspect is a case of suicide, an official said on Sunday. A purported suicide note found in the possession of the deceased stated that he was taking the extreme step due to his in-laws and a Congress MLA. Police inspector KM Gadhvi said the body of Nitin Parmar was found hanging from the ceiling of his house on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. “Prima facie it is a case of suicide. The postmortem report to ascertain the exact cause of his death is awaited. The suicide note is under forensic investigation,” Gadhvi said. He said the police also recovered a purported suicide note from Parmar’s possession which mentioned three names, including his father-in-law and mother-in-law, and MLA Vimal Chudasama. Acknowledging that the deceased Parmar was his relative, Chudasama alleged it seemed to be a case of murder but shown as suicide in a conspiracy to defame him. “The man who mentioned my name in the suicide note has not interacted with me in the last two years. He is the son of my aunt. Looking at the injury marks on his body, his family believes that he has been murdered. I think the suicide note is a conspiracy against me. The letter is not in his handwriting. This is a conspiracy by my competitor to defame me,” the Congress MLA told reporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Gujarat man found dead at home, suicide note names Congress leader

After the declaration of candidate lists, both BJP and Congress are facing dissidence from those who failed to make the cut. The situation is same in all the poll-bound states including Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Madhya And Mizoram, although the intensity varies. But why is ticket allocation such a problematic task before every election?

Congress, BJP in a fix over containing dissent in poll-bound states

Defections in Congress, BJP before 2023 state assembly polls

The election season is underway in India five major States will be going to the polls next month. Watch our report to know more.

The wait for 'one nation, one election'

According to persons familiar with the situation, President Biden is considering submitting a comprehensive request for approximately $100 billion in additional funds, which would include financing for Israel and Ukraine.

US administration to seek emergency fund approval from Congress

Indian National Congress stands firm with Palestinians. Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Oct 9.

Israel-Palestine War: India’s Congress extends support for Palestinians

<p>The National Conference and Congress have won the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil polls by winning 22 out of 26 seats. The National Conference won 12 seats while the Indian National Congress emerged winner on 10 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and independent candidates emerged winners on two seats each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the first election in Kargil after August 5, 2019. Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah said that the BJP was dealt a resounding defeat at the hands of the NC-Congress alliance in Kargil, on Sunday (Oct 8).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-new-assessment-system-to-also-ask-juniors-about-their-officers-644129">&nbsp;Indian Navy's new appraisal system to ask juniors to rate their officers</a></strong></p>

<p>“In celebration of our strong alliance with the Congress party, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference is delighted to announce its victory in the LAHDC Kargil elections. This result sends a message to all forces and parties that have, undemocratically and unconstitutionally, divided the state of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh without the consent of its people,” said Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “This victory belongs to the people of Zanskar, Kargil, and Drass, who have decisively endorsed the National Conference-Congress alliance. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the elected councillors, recognizing their dedication to serving the people.”</p>

<p>The Indian National Congress leaders also congratulated the people of Ladakh and Kargil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have registered a resounding victory in the Ladakh-Kargil Autonomous Hill Council elections after 10 years! Along with our INDIA partner National Conference, we have swept the entire region in its first election after the abrogation of Art. 370. Sh. @RahulGandhi ji’s Bharat Jodo Yatra last month across the region has given people of Ladakh and Kargil the faith that the Congress and INDIA have a deep concern about the issues they face, and the need for their democratic sentiments to be given a voice. Congratulations to all victorious candidates and I am confident this will usher a new democratic dawn in Ladakh and Kargil,” said K C Venugopal, General Secretary of Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-students-stuck-in-israel-practice-caution-in-touch-with-officials-amid-hamas-attack-644070">Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, in touch with officials amid Hamas attack</a></strong><br />
<br />
The National Conference also launched a scathing attack on the BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Omar Abdullah said, “These election results should serve as a wake-up call for the BJP. It is time to cease hiding behind the Raj Bhawan and unelected representatives and, instead, acknowledge the people's rightful desire for a democratically elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. Democracy demands the voices of the people be heard and respected.”<br />
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The National Conference and Congress have won the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil polls by winning 22 out of 26 seats. The National Conference won 12 seats while the Indian National Congress emerged winner on 10 seats.

The National Conference and Congress have won the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil polls by winning 22 out of 26 seats. The National Conference won 12 seats while the Indian National Congress emerged winner on 10 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and independent candidates emerged winners on two seats each. This was the first election in Kargil after August 5, 2019. Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah said that the BJP was dealt a resounding defeat at the hands of the NC-Congress alliance in Kargil, on Sunday (Oct 8). ALSO READ | Indian Navy's new appraisal system to ask juniors to rate their officers “In celebration of our strong alliance with the Congress party, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference is delighted to announce its victory in the LAHDC Kargil elections. This result sends a message to all forces and parties that have, undemocratically and unconstitutionally, divided the state of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh without the consent of its people,” said Omar Abdullah. He added, “This victory belongs to the people of Zanskar, Kargil, and Drass, who have decisively endorsed the National Conference-Congress alliance. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the elected councillors, recognizing their dedication to serving the people.” The Indian National Congress leaders also congratulated the people of Ladakh and Kargil. “We have registered a resounding victory in the Ladakh-Kargil Autonomous Hill Council elections after 10 years! Along with our INDIA partner National Conference, we have swept the entire region in its first election after the abrogation of Art. 370. Sh. @RahulGandhi ji’s Bharat Jodo Yatra last month across the region has given people of Ladakh and Kargil the faith that the Congress and INDIA have a deep concern about the issues they face, and the need for their democratic sentiments to be given a voice. Congratulations to all victorious candidates and I am confident this will usher a new democratic dawn in Ladakh and Kargil,” said K C Venugopal, General Secretary of Congress. ALSO READ | Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, in touch with officials amid Hamas attack The National Conference also launched a scathing attack on the BJP. Omar Abdullah said, “These election results should serve as a wake-up call for the BJP. It is time to cease hiding behind the Raj Bhawan and unelected representatives and, instead, acknowledge the people's rightful desire for a democratically elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. Democracy demands the voices of the people be heard and respected.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections

<p>A ‘poster war’ has broken out between the two largest political parties of India—the opposition Congress and the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This started with a poster released by Congress Wednesday (Oct 4) on X, which showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the caption ‘The Biggest Liar’.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Biggest Liar <a href="https://t.co/rs56VSWRK1">pic.twitter.com/rs56VSWRK1</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1709584164184572403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress released another poster carrying images of PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is considered the number 2 in the Modi administration. The caption on the poster read, “PM Narendra Modi as&nbsp;<em>Jumla Boy (</em>Boy who makes false promises), BJP Presents.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Going to hit the election rally soon. <a href="https://t.co/GCWWr2bwxi">pic.twitter.com/GCWWr2bwxi</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1709554954132676907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The BJP retaliated strongly on Thursday (Oct 5) by releasing its own poster branding opposition leader Rahul Gandhi as ‘Ravan,’ the chief antagonist in the Hindu epic Ramayana.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The new age Ravan is here. He is Evil. Anti Dharma. Anti Ram. His aim is to destroy Bharat. <a href="https://t.co/AwDKxJpDHB">pic.twitter.com/AwDKxJpDHB</a></p>
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<p>The caption on the poster read, “Ravan, a Congress party production, directed by George Soros.’</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy over poster war</strong></h2>

<p>As soon as the BJP released the poster, opposition parties severely criticised the move, calling it “unacceptable.”</p>

<p>Taking strong offence to the poster, Congress's Jairam Ramesh accused the BJP of inciting violence against Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What is the real intent of an atrocious graphic portraying Rahul Gandhi as Ravan by the BJP's official handle? It is clearly intended to incite and provoke violence against a Congress MP and a former President of the party, whose father and grandmother were assassinated by forces that want to divide India," he said in a post on X.</p>

<p>"It is one thing for the PM to give evidence daily of being a pathological liar and of suffering from a narcissistic personality disorder. But for him to get his party to produce something this obnoxious is not just completely unacceptable, but is downright dangerous," Ramesh added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-snatched-india-land-rahul-gandhi-reiterates-claim-after-beijing-releases-new-map-630475"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;China has snatched India`s land, Rahul Gandhi reiterates claim after Beijing releases incorrect map</strong></a></p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi’s sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also came down heavily on BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Most respected @narendramodi ji and shri @JPNadda ji, what level do you want to take politics and debate to? Do you agree with the violent and provocative tweets being posted from the official Twitter handle of your party?" she wrote on X.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Election season heats up in India</strong></p>

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<p>Going a step further, Congress general secretary, organisation, KC Venugopal said the BJP wanted to “murder” Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Their nefarious intentions are clear, they want to murder him. He, who lost his grandmother and father to assassinations. They withdrew his SPG protection to score petty political points. After evicting him from his secure residence, they haven't allocated another house that he has requested for," he said.</p>

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A ‘poster war’ has broken out between the two largest political parties of India—the opposition Congress and the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). This started with a poster released by Congress Wednesday (Oct 4) on X, which showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the caption ‘The Biggest Liar’.

A ‘poster war’ has broken out between the two largest political parties of India—the opposition Congress and the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). This started with a poster released by Congress Wednesday (Oct 4) on X, which showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the caption ‘The Biggest Liar’. The Biggest Liar pic.twitter.com/rs56VSWRK1 — Congress (@INCIndia) October 4, 2023 × Congress released another poster carrying images of PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is considered the number 2 in the Modi administration. The caption on the poster read, “PM Narendra Modi as Jumla Boy (Boy who makes false promises), BJP Presents.” Going to hit the election rally soon. pic.twitter.com/GCWWr2bwxi — Congress (@INCIndia) October 4, 2023 × The BJP retaliated strongly on Thursday (Oct 5) by releasing its own poster branding opposition leader Rahul Gandhi as ‘Ravan,’ the chief antagonist in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The new age Ravan is here. He is Evil. Anti Dharma. Anti Ram. His aim is to destroy Bharat. pic.twitter.com/AwDKxJpDHB — BJP (@BJP4India) October 5, 2023 × The caption on the poster read, “Ravan, a Congress party production, directed by George Soros.’ Controversy over poster war As soon as the BJP released the poster, opposition parties severely criticised the move, calling it “unacceptable.” Taking strong offence to the poster, Congress's Jairam Ramesh accused the BJP of inciting violence against Rahul Gandhi. "What is the real intent of an atrocious graphic portraying Rahul Gandhi as Ravan by the BJP's official handle? It is clearly intended to incite and provoke violence against a Congress MP and a former President of the party, whose father and grandmother were assassinated by forces that want to divide India," he said in a post on X. "It is one thing for the PM to give evidence daily of being a pathological liar and of suffering from a narcissistic personality disorder. But for him to get his party to produce something this obnoxious is not just completely unacceptable, but is downright dangerous," Ramesh added. Also read: China has snatched India`s land, Rahul Gandhi reiterates claim after Beijing releases incorrect map Rahul Gandhi’s sister and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also came down heavily on BJP. “Most respected @narendramodi ji and shri @JPNadda ji, what level do you want to take politics and debate to? Do you agree with the violent and provocative tweets being posted from the official Twitter handle of your party?" she wrote on X. Watch: Election season heats up in India × Going a step further, Congress general secretary, organisation, KC Venugopal said the BJP wanted to “murder” Rahul Gandhi. "Their nefarious intentions are clear, they want to murder him. He, who lost his grandmother and father to assassinations. They withdrew his SPG protection to score petty political points. After evicting him from his secure residence, they haven't allocated another house that he has requested for," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

PM Modi as 'Biggest liar', Rahul Gandhi as 'Ravan': Political poster war breaks out in India

In order to avoid a costly government shutdown, the US Congress enacted a temporary funding plan that excludes President Joe Biden's requested aid for war-torn Ukraine. This will keep the federal government open until mid-November.

US: Congress passes 45-day stopgap measure, averts government shutdown

<p>The White House said on Friday (Sep 29) that it's still possible to avoid a government shutdown, as Republicans refused to support a bipartisan Senate proposal to keep the government open. The White House stated that it was up to Republican lawmakers to resolve the impasse.</p>

<p>"There is still a chance," Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director Shalanda Young told reporters at a briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm still remaining an optimist that we have a day and a half to work out, in one corner, what is needed to take the deal" that Republicans in the House of Representatives have been offered by the Senate for a stopgap, she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flashback-friday-how-an-obscure-law-triggered-the-first-us-shutdown-in-1980-640921">Flashback Friday - How an obscure law&nbsp;triggered the first US shutdown in 1980</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In the United States, lawmakers are racing against time to avert a federal government shutdown, after a number of hardline Republicans refused to endorse must-pass funding legislation unless major budget cuts were made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Congress fails to authorise discretionary expenditure for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1, the government shuts down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, Congress has struggled to reach a deal to keep agencies running, prevent national park closures, and avoid the suspension of salaries for federal employees and military staff.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per an estimate by the White House,&nbsp;3.5 million federal workers will have to go without pay if the government shuts down - around two&nbsp;million of them will be military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The closure, set to start after midnight Saturday (0400 GMT Sunday), would be the first since 2019 and appears increasingly inevitable.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-city-state-of-emergency-declared-as-strong-storms-bring-flash-flooding-641041">State of emergency declared on New York City as strong storms bring flash flooding - Video</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;President Biden meets Pacific Island leaders at the White House</strong></p>

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<p>The two chambers of Congress are deadlocked, with a small group of hardline Republicans in the House of Representatives opposing any short-term fix that would at least keep the lights on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>House Republicans proposed a plan on Friday to extend funding until the beginning of November, but only if substantial budget cuts of around 30% were made across the board, with exceptions for defence and disaster relief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement that he would veto this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are breaking their word, abandoning the bipartisan deal that two-thirds of them voted for just four months ago," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in another statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The White House said on Friday (Sep 29) that it's still possible to avoid a government shutdown, as Republicans refused to support a bipartisan Senate proposal to keep the government open.

The White House said on Friday (Sep 29) that it's still possible to avoid a government shutdown, as Republicans refused to support a bipartisan Senate proposal to keep the government open. The White House stated that it was up to Republican lawmakers to resolve the impasse. "There is still a chance," Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director Shalanda Young told reporters at a briefing. "I'm still remaining an optimist that we have a day and a half to work out, in one corner, what is needed to take the deal" that Republicans in the House of Representatives have been offered by the Senate for a stopgap, she added. Also read: Flashback Friday - How an obscure law triggered the first US shutdown in 1980 In the United States, lawmakers are racing against time to avert a federal government shutdown, after a number of hardline Republicans refused to endorse must-pass funding legislation unless major budget cuts were made. When Congress fails to authorise discretionary expenditure for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1, the government shuts down. So far, Congress has struggled to reach a deal to keep agencies running, prevent national park closures, and avoid the suspension of salaries for federal employees and military staff. As per an estimate by the White House, 3.5 million federal workers will have to go without pay if the government shuts down - around two million of them will be military. The closure, set to start after midnight Saturday (0400 GMT Sunday), would be the first since 2019 and appears increasingly inevitable. Also read: State of emergency declared on New York City as strong storms bring flash flooding - Video Watch: President Biden meets Pacific Island leaders at the White House × The two chambers of Congress are deadlocked, with a small group of hardline Republicans in the House of Representatives opposing any short-term fix that would at least keep the lights on. House Republicans proposed a plan on Friday to extend funding until the beginning of November, but only if substantial budget cuts of around 30% were made across the board, with exceptions for defence and disaster relief. President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement that he would veto this. "They are breaking their word, abandoning the bipartisan deal that two-thirds of them voted for just four months ago," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in another statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Congress in deadlock as US on brink of shutdown, govt hopeful of averting crisis

<p>The Women's Reservation Bill, recently passed with near unanimity in the lower house of&nbsp;the Indian Parliament, has reignited a critical debate concerning the representation of women in the country's political landscape.</p>

<p>India currently ranks 141 out of 185 countries in terms of the percentage of women in the Lok Sabha, with only 15 per cent&nbsp;representation.</p>

<p>This figure not only falls below the global average but also lags behind neighbouring&nbsp; countries&nbsp;like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal.</p>

<p>Data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a global organisation of national parliaments, underscores India's gender disparity issue.</p>

<p>The organisation's data reveals that India's lower house of Parliament has a mere 15 per cent representation of women, significantly lower than the global average of 26 per cent. This assessment considers the lower houses of parliaments in countries with bicameral legislatures (comprising an upper and lower house), as well as unicameral legislatures with only one house.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-womens-reservation-bill-need-of-the-hour-but-how-many-years-to-go-637947">India women’s reservation bill: Need of the hour, but how many years to go?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Comparative analysis</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan, a neighbouring nation, has taken steps to address women's representation since 1956, currently maintaining a 20 per cent&nbsp;representation of women in its National Assembly. The country had reserved 17 per cent&nbsp;of seats for women in the National Assembly back in 2002.</p>

<p>In Bangladesh, which has a unicameral legislature, 50 out of 350 seats in the <em>'Jatiya Sangsad'</em> are reserved for women, resulting in a current parliamentary representation of 21 per cent women.</p>

<p>Nepal, with a representation of 33.09 per cent&nbsp;women, has made significant strides, although it is still close to the one-third of seats reserved for women since 2007 in its lower house, known as the House of Representatives.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-Canada tensions: Why was Khalistan supporter Sukha Duneke shot dead &amp; who was he?</strong></p>

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<p>Comparatively, countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have 29 per cent&nbsp;and 35 per cent&nbsp;women representatives, respectively. However, some countries, including Sri Lanka (5 per cent), Qatar (4 per cent), Oman (2 per cent), and Kuwait (3 per cent), have a lower percentage of women representatives than India.</p>

<p>On the contrary, nations like New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates boast an equal representation of men and women at 50 per cent. At the pinnacle of this list is Rwanda, with an impressive 61 per cent&nbsp;of women representatives in its lower house.</p>

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The Women's Reservation Bill, recently passed with near unanimity in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, has reignited a critical debate concerning the representation of women in the country's political landscape.

The Women's Reservation Bill, recently passed with near unanimity in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, has reignited a critical debate concerning the representation of women in the country's political landscape. India currently ranks 141 out of 185 countries in terms of the percentage of women in the Lok Sabha, with only 15 per cent representation. This figure not only falls below the global average but also lags behind neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal. Data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a global organisation of national parliaments, underscores India's gender disparity issue. The organisation's data reveals that India's lower house of Parliament has a mere 15 per cent representation of women, significantly lower than the global average of 26 per cent. This assessment considers the lower houses of parliaments in countries with bicameral legislatures (comprising an upper and lower house), as well as unicameral legislatures with only one house. Also read | India women’s reservation bill: Need of the hour, but how many years to go? Comparative analysis Pakistan, a neighbouring nation, has taken steps to address women's representation since 1956, currently maintaining a 20 per cent representation of women in its National Assembly. The country had reserved 17 per cent of seats for women in the National Assembly back in 2002. In Bangladesh, which has a unicameral legislature, 50 out of 350 seats in the 'Jatiya Sangsad' are reserved for women, resulting in a current parliamentary representation of 21 per cent women. Nepal, with a representation of 33.09 per cent women, has made significant strides, although it is still close to the one-third of seats reserved for women since 2007 in its lower house, known as the House of Representatives. Also watch | India-Canada tensions: Why was Khalistan supporter Sukha Duneke shot dead & who was he? Comparatively, countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have 29 per cent and 35 per cent women representatives, respectively. However, some countries, including Sri Lanka (5 per cent), Qatar (4 per cent), Oman (2 per cent), and Kuwait (3 per cent), have a lower percentage of women representatives than India. On the contrary, nations like New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates boast an equal representation of men and women at 50 per cent. At the pinnacle of this list is Rwanda, with an impressive 61 per cent of women representatives in its lower house. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India trails: Even Bangladesh, Pakistan have more women in Lower House of Parliament

The Union Cabinet on Monday cleared the women's reservation bill in a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced Union minister Prahlad Patel.

Women's Reservation Bill: Congress backs bill, demand immediate implementation

<p>In a fiery session of the Lok Sabha focused on the Women's Reservation Bill, BJP Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey raked up a 2012 controversy claiming that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi "tried to grab collar" and physically confronted a Samajwadi Party member during a parliamentary debate over the proposed bill seeking to provide reservation in government job promotions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nishikant Dubey, the MP from the Indian state of Jharkhand, representing Godda parliament seat, opened the debate on behalf of the ruling party.</p>

<p>"When I talk about the Bill to bring reservation in promotion, all those in these benches will be up on their feet. (Congress minister) V Narayanasamy was presenting the Bill. Samajwadi Party's Yashvir Singh was a Scheduled Caste MP; these people talk about Scheduled Castes and Tribes. Yashvir Singh had snatched the papers from Mr Narayanasamy," he said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-announces-congresss-support-to-womens-reservation-bill-bjp-calls-it-politicisation-637831">Sonia announces Cong support to women’s quota bill, demands instant enactment; BJP calls it politicisation</a></p>

<p>"In this Lok Sabha, Sonia Gandhi had then tried to grab his (Yashvir Singh) collar. I had then told her, 'You are not the dictator here, you are not the queen, you cannot fight here'," Dubey added. "Mulayam Singh Yadav had then said that his party's MPs would not have been saved if the BJP did not intervene. You tried to murder MPs. Now you have come together in an alliance," he said.</p>

<p>During the 2012 incident, Samajwadi Party MP Yashveer Singh reportedly disrupted Lok Sabha proceedings by snatching the bill for promotions from Congress leader Minister V. Narayanasamy's hands.</p>

<p>Sonia Gandhi, who was sitting beside the minister, approached Singh and attempted to retrieve the papers from him. At the time, Mulayam Singh Yadav, then the Samajwadi Party chief, had condemned the act and described it as an "attack" on their MPs.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-claims-words-socialist-and-secular-missing-from-new-constitution-copies-ruling-party-responds-637772">Congress claims words 'socialist and secular' missing from new Constitution copies, ruling party responds</a></p>

<p>However, during the Wednesday (September 20) debate, Dubey's statement ignited a strong reaction from Opposition MPs. They demanded that a female MP should lead the BJP's side of the debate.</p>

<p>Over this, Home Minister Amit Shah raised a question, "Can’t men speak on women’s issues?"</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/5-biggest-controversies-in-canadian-pm-justin-trudeaus-career-637861">5 biggest controversies in Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's career</a></strong></p>

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<p>Dubey also recalled the crucial roles of Geeta Mukherjee, a seven-time MP representing CPI from Bengal's Panskura between 1980 and 2000, and BJP's Sushma Swaraj in advocating for the Women's Reservation Bill.</p>
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<p>He questioned why Sonia Gandhi did not mention them in her statements, raising concerns about the nature of politics.</p>

<p>"The two women who spoke in favour of the Women Reservation Bill the most were Bengal's Geeta Mukherjee and BJP's Sushma Swaraj. We would not see this date without them. But Sonia ji did not mention them. What kind of politics is this?"</p>

<p>The constitutional amendment bill, tabled in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday (September 19), is aimed to provide 33 per cent&nbsp;reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.</p>

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In a fiery session of the Lok Sabha focused on the Women's Reservation Bill, BJP Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey raked up a 2012 controversy claiming that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi "tried to grab collar" and physically confronted a Samajwadi Party member during a parliamentary debate over the proposed bill seeking to provide reservation in government job promotions.

In a fiery session of the Lok Sabha focused on the Women's Reservation Bill, BJP Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey raked up a 2012 controversy claiming that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi "tried to grab collar" and physically confronted a Samajwadi Party member during a parliamentary debate over the proposed bill seeking to provide reservation in government job promotions. Nishikant Dubey, the MP from the Indian state of Jharkhand, representing Godda parliament seat, opened the debate on behalf of the ruling party. "When I talk about the Bill to bring reservation in promotion, all those in these benches will be up on their feet. (Congress minister) V Narayanasamy was presenting the Bill. Samajwadi Party's Yashvir Singh was a Scheduled Caste MP; these people talk about Scheduled Castes and Tribes. Yashvir Singh had snatched the papers from Mr Narayanasamy," he said. Also Read | Sonia announces Cong support to women’s quota bill, demands instant enactment; BJP calls it politicisation "In this Lok Sabha, Sonia Gandhi had then tried to grab his (Yashvir Singh) collar. I had then told her, 'You are not the dictator here, you are not the queen, you cannot fight here'," Dubey added. "Mulayam Singh Yadav had then said that his party's MPs would not have been saved if the BJP did not intervene. You tried to murder MPs. Now you have come together in an alliance," he said. During the 2012 incident, Samajwadi Party MP Yashveer Singh reportedly disrupted Lok Sabha proceedings by snatching the bill for promotions from Congress leader Minister V. Narayanasamy's hands. Sonia Gandhi, who was sitting beside the minister, approached Singh and attempted to retrieve the papers from him. At the time, Mulayam Singh Yadav, then the Samajwadi Party chief, had condemned the act and described it as an "attack" on their MPs. Also Read | Congress claims words 'socialist and secular' missing from new Constitution copies, ruling party responds However, during the Wednesday (September 20) debate, Dubey's statement ignited a strong reaction from Opposition MPs. They demanded that a female MP should lead the BJP's side of the debate. Over this, Home Minister Amit Shah raised a question, "Can’t men speak on women’s issues?" Watch | 5 biggest controversies in Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's career × Dubey also recalled the crucial roles of Geeta Mukherjee, a seven-time MP representing CPI from Bengal's Panskura between 1980 and 2000, and BJP's Sushma Swaraj in advocating for the Women's Reservation Bill. He questioned why Sonia Gandhi did not mention them in her statements, raising concerns about the nature of politics. "The two women who spoke in favour of the Women Reservation Bill the most were Bengal's Geeta Mukherjee and BJP's Sushma Swaraj. We would not see this date without them. But Sonia ji did not mention them. What kind of politics is this?" The constitutional amendment bill, tabled in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday (September 19), is aimed to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Sonia Gandhi 'tried to grab collar': BJP MP rakes up 2012 controversy

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