Mexican-born Mayra Flores, a former Republican Representative, has declared her candidacy for Texas's 34th Congressional District, media reports said.&nbsp;This sets the stage for a rematch against incumbent Democrat Vicente Gonzalez.&nbsp;

In the 2022 midterm elections, she was defeated by Gonzalez with a margin of over 8 points. The redistricting process also contributed to a more favorable environment for Democrats in the district.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trial-opens-over-new-zealands-2019-white-island-volcanic-eruption-incident-that-killed-22-614451">Trial opens over New Zealand's 2019 White Island volcanic eruption incident that killed 22</a>

Flores made her announcement on the show "Fox &amp; Friends," emphasising her commitment to representing the people of South Texas and addressing issues such as border security, empowering border patrol agents, and combating child trafficking.

“I am announcing for Congress. We are taking back our seat,” she said adding, “We will flip this district and take back what is ours in 2024.”

In her campaign ad, Flores highlighted her family's connection to the Rio Grande Valley, where she and her father worked in the cotton fields.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-outgoing-prime-minister-prayut-chan-o-cha-announces-retirement-from-politics-614430">Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announces retirement from politics</a>

She aims to leverage her deep roots in the community to garner support.

Flores initially won a special election in June last year to fill the state’s old 34th Congressional District. It came after the seat was left vacant by former Democratic Representative Filemon Vela, who resigned to work at a law firm.&nbsp;

<h2>A rapid Latinos shift</h2>

Her win was celebrated among conservatives. It was interpreted as a signal of a rapid Latinos shift towards the Republican Party in Texas.&nbsp;

“Our values align with the Republican Party. Our values align. I am pro-God, pro-life, pro-family,” she said Tuesday. “The Democrat Party stands against everything we stand for.”

Watch | Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet

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According to the nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report, the House district is rated as "likely Democrat" for the upcoming 2024 election.

<h2>Poll in favour of&nbsp;Mayra Flores&nbsp;</h2>

The National Republican Congressional Committee had been actively involved in persuading Flores to launch another campaign.

It conducted a poll that indicated that she had a viable chance of winning the district, despite President Joe Biden having won it by a significant margin of nearly 16 points in the 2020 election.

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Mexican-born Mayra Flores, a former Republican Representative, has declared her candidacy for Texas's 34th Congressional District, media reports said. This sets the stage for a rematch against incumbent Democrat Vicente Gonzalez.

Mexican-born Mayra Flores, a former Republican Representative, has declared her candidacy for Texas's 34th Congressional District, media reports said. This sets the stage for a rematch against incumbent Democrat Vicente Gonzalez. In the 2022 midterm elections, she was defeated by Gonzalez with a margin of over 8 points. The redistricting process also contributed to a more favorable environment for Democrats in the district. Also Read | Trial opens over New Zealand's 2019 White Island volcanic eruption incident that killed 22 Flores made her announcement on the show "Fox & Friends," emphasising her commitment to representing the people of South Texas and addressing issues such as border security, empowering border patrol agents, and combating child trafficking. “I am announcing for Congress. We are taking back our seat,” she said adding, “We will flip this district and take back what is ours in 2024.” In her campaign ad, Flores highlighted her family's connection to the Rio Grande Valley, where she and her father worked in the cotton fields. Also Read | Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announces retirement from politics She aims to leverage her deep roots in the community to garner support. Flores initially won a special election in June last year to fill the state’s old 34th Congressional District. It came after the seat was left vacant by former Democratic Representative Filemon Vela, who resigned to work at a law firm. A rapid Latinos shift Her win was celebrated among conservatives. It was interpreted as a signal of a rapid Latinos shift towards the Republican Party in Texas. “Our values align with the Republican Party. Our values align. I am pro-God, pro-life, pro-family,” she said Tuesday. “The Democrat Party stands against everything we stand for.” Watch | Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet × According to the nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report, the House district is rated as "likely Democrat" for the upcoming 2024 election. Poll in favour of Mayra Flores The National Republican Congressional Committee had been actively involved in persuading Flores to launch another campaign. It conducted a poll that indicated that she had a viable chance of winning the district, despite President Joe Biden having won it by a significant margin of nearly 16 points in the 2020 election. 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. ×

Republican Mayra Flores announces bid to reclaim Texas House seat

The Indian Northeastern State of Manipur has been hit by violence and vandalism since May 3 this year. The clashes between the Kuki ethnic group and the Meiteis, the dominant community have resulted in deaths, displacement and vandalism. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was stopped by police where he was supposed to visit the Manipur relief camps in Imphal and Churachandpur.

Rahul Gandhi stopped by police, local police cites threat to Gandhi's security as a reason

Ex-parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi has continued his attacks on the ruling BJP government in India during his USA visit. On Sunday, the Congress leader hit out at the BJP over the recent Odisha triple-train accident saying the saffron party always looks back and passes the blame.

Ex-parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi has continued his attacks on the ruling BJP government in India during his USA visit. On Sunday, the Congress leader hit out at the BJP over the recent Odisha triple-train accident saying the saffron party always looks back and passes the blame. "You ask them (BJP) anything, they will look back and pass the blame. Ask them why the train accident (in Odisha) took place, and they (BJP) will say Congress did this 50 years ago," said Gandhi while addressing the Indian diaspora in New York. "Their immediate response is peeche dekho (look in history)." Gandhi cited an example of a previous train accident that occurred during Congress' tenure and said the then minister (without naming him/her) resigned from the post. "I remember a train accident when the Congress was in power. The Congress did not get up and say 'Now it is the fault of the British that the train has crashed'. The Congress minister said 'It's my responsibility and I'm resigning'. So this is the problem we have back home, we make excuses and we are not accepting the reality we are faced with," The Congress leader who was ripped off his parliamentarian tag by an Indian court, trained his guns on PM Modi and said he was attempting to drive India forward by looking in the rear-view mirror. "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is trying to drive the car...the Indian car and he looks in the rear-view mirror. Then he does not understand why this car is crashing, not moving forward. And it's the same idea with the BJP, with the RSS. All of them. You listen to the ministers, you listen to the prime minister. You will never find them talking about the future. They only talk about the past." WATCH | Odisha Train Tragedy | Railway Minister: Root cause of the incident identified × What happened in Odisha? A collision between two passenger trains and a goods train in the eastern Indian state of Odisha's Balasore over the weekend resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 275 individuals, with approximately 900 others sustaining injuries. The Howrah Superfast Express derailed and became entangled with the Coromandel Express, South Eastern Railway authorities said. A goods train too was part of the massive collision, making it one of the deadliest train accidents India has ever witnessed. According to media reports citing sources, the Indian Railways is investigating the possibility of a signalling error as the prima facie cause of the train derailment. Also read | Odisha train crash: Survivors recount horror; restoration work begins as PM lauds locals’ courage, compassion PM Modi visited the accident site and vowed to find the guilty parties and take stringent punishment against them. "It's a painful incident. Govt will leave no stone unturned for the treatment of those injured. It's a serious incident, instructions issued for probe from every angle. Those found guilty will be punished stringently. Railway is working towards track restoration. I met the injured victims," said PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rahul Gandhi in US: Congress leader attacks PM Modi, BJP and RSS over Odisha train tragedy

Republican and Democratic leaders scrambled to secure congressional support for a bill aimed at avoiding a catastrophic US debt default, with just one week left before the government starts running out of money.

Republicans  and Democrats race against time for US debt crisis bill in Congress

Race against time for US debt crisis bill in Congress

A Delhi court, on Friday, partially allowed an application moved by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the issuance of an "ordinary passport".

The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi granted the no-objection certificate to India’s top opposition leader for 3 years.

On Friday, the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vaibhav Mehta said that Gandhi is granted NOC valid for 3 years.

"People who have been involved in graver offences have been granted passports for ten years. It includes 2G and Coal scam etc. Issuance of passport for ten years is given as a matter of routine," advocate Cheema added.&nbsp;

Former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, during earlier submissions, filed the reply in the Delhi Court, opposing the Congress party leader's plea and submitted that the applicant (Rahul Gandhi) has no-valid or effective reason for the passport to be issued for 10 years.

In the reply, it is submitted that "the application is devoid of any merit for issuance of passport for 10 years."

He further in his reply submitted that the court may exercise the prudence to give permission after investigating and examining all the other matters that are correlated before deciding on the litigation of the applicant in the broad spectrum of areas of justice and law.

He added that at this stage, the NOC for the passport for the applicant may not be more than one year and may be reviewed annually or as deemed fit by this court. &nbsp;

"The right to hold a passport, like all other Fundamental Rights, is not an absolute Right and is subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by the Government in the interest of national security, public order, morality, and prevention of crime," Swamy added.

The Delhi Court had asked Subramanian Swamy, on Wednesday (May 24), to file his written submissions by Friday while hearing the plea for a fresh passport by Rahul Gandhi, who is an accused in the National Herald case.

Gandhi, who moved to the court seeking NOC to secure an ordinary passport, had surrendered his diplomatic travel document after his disqualification as an MP.

<h2>No pending criminal cases against Gandhi, says counsel</h2>

Counsel for Gandhi, Advocate Tarannum Cheema, who appeared along with advocates Nikhil Bhalla and Sumit Kumar, pursued the grant of the no objection certificate (NOC), stating that there are 'no criminal cases pending' against him, as per news agency ANI.

"The applicant ceased to be a Member of Parliament in March 2023 and as such he surrendered his diplomatic passport and is applying for a fresh ordinary passport. By way of the present application, the applicant is seeking permission and no objection from this Court for issuance of a fresh ordinary passport to him."&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi's advocates submitted that there are no criminal proceedings pending and that travelling abroad is a fundamental right.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Delhi court, on Friday, partially allowed an application moved by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the issuance of an "ordinary passport".

A Delhi court, on Friday, partially allowed an application moved by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the issuance of an "ordinary passport". The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi granted the no-objection certificate to India’s top opposition leader for 3 years. On Friday, the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vaibhav Mehta said that Gandhi is granted NOC valid for 3 years. "People who have been involved in graver offences have been granted passports for ten years. It includes 2G and Coal scam etc. Issuance of passport for ten years is given as a matter of routine," advocate Cheema added. Former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, during earlier submissions, filed the reply in the Delhi Court, opposing the Congress party leader's plea and submitted that the applicant (Rahul Gandhi) has no-valid or effective reason for the passport to be issued for 10 years. In the reply, it is submitted that "the application is devoid of any merit for issuance of passport for 10 years." He further in his reply submitted that the court may exercise the prudence to give permission after investigating and examining all the other matters that are correlated before deciding on the litigation of the applicant in the broad spectrum of areas of justice and law. He added that at this stage, the NOC for the passport for the applicant may not be more than one year and may be reviewed annually or as deemed fit by this court. "The right to hold a passport, like all other Fundamental Rights, is not an absolute Right and is subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by the Government in the interest of national security, public order, morality, and prevention of crime," Swamy added. The Delhi Court had asked Subramanian Swamy, on Wednesday (May 24), to file his written submissions by Friday while hearing the plea for a fresh passport by Rahul Gandhi, who is an accused in the National Herald case. Gandhi, who moved to the court seeking NOC to secure an ordinary passport, had surrendered his diplomatic travel document after his disqualification as an MP. No pending criminal cases against Gandhi, says counsel Counsel for Gandhi, Advocate Tarannum Cheema, who appeared along with advocates Nikhil Bhalla and Sumit Kumar, pursued the grant of the no objection certificate (NOC), stating that there are 'no criminal cases pending' against him, as per news agency ANI. "The applicant ceased to be a Member of Parliament in March 2023 and as such he surrendered his diplomatic passport and is applying for a fresh ordinary passport. By way of the present application, the applicant is seeking permission and no objection from this Court for issuance of a fresh ordinary passport to him." Rahul Gandhi's advocates submitted that there are no criminal proceedings pending and that travelling abroad is a fundamental right. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Delhi court grants No Objection Certificate to Rahul Gandhi for issuance of ‘ordinary passport’ for 3 years

Brazilian activists are flipping out. A recent move by the Brazilian Congress outraged tons of activists in the country. Brazilian congress moved to dilute the powers of the environment & Indigenous peoples ministries. The legislation slashes the authority of the Ministries of Indigenous Peoples (MPI) & the Environment (MMA). Campaigners called the move, a crippling blow to efforts to protect Indigenous communities & the Amazon

Why is Brazil Congress diluting powers of environment & Indigenous Ministries?

What does the Karnataka election verdict mean for the 2024 general elections? Vikram Chandra finds out from election experts Yashwant Deshmukh and Yogendra Yadav.

Why Congress swept Karnataka?

Conceding defeat in the Karnataka assembly election, chief minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday said the Bharatiya Janata Party has not been able to make the mark, while the Congress did it successfully.

Karnataka Elections 2023: Indian PM Modi congratulates Congress on their win India

Karnataka Elections 2023: Congress sweeps past majority mark | India

After a 10-year absence, the Congress returned to power in Karnataka on its own strength on May 13, with victories or leads in 137 of 224 seats.

The party has received an overwhelming mandate from the voters. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has borne the price for "various failures." The regional party, the Janata Dal (Secular), has once again demonstrated that it is not a force to be reckoned with throughout the state.

Karnataka was the BJP's lone southern state. The state upheld its tradition of not re-electing a political party.

There might be a variety of reasons why an election is won or lost. However, some elements become apparent. For example, the ruling BJP is still a party that needs to spread across the state. The Congress, on the other hand, is thoroughly anchored in each district.

A swing of 2-5 percentage points is enough for the Congress to prevail over the BJP. Unlike the BJP, the Congress state leaders accepted the responsibility of guiding the party to the polls, reported Moneycontrol.&nbsp;

DK Shivakumar, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee head, and former chief minister Siddaramaiah positioned the party brilliantly in front of the people. There was no let-up in their efforts to portray the ruling BJP as the most corrupt. Efforts began with the PayCM campaign months ago. The Congress didn't simply depend on its own strategy; it also enlisted the help of political organisations to boost its campaign.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Karnataka election results: Congress wins by biggest vote share in 34 years

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Unlike the BJP, the Congress placed a high value on its senior Karnataka leadership. This has also contributed to the party's good mood today. The vote share of Congress has surpassed 40%, a recent high. Surprisingly, the traditional Vokkaliga belt, primarily Mandya and Hassan, supported the Congress as well. The Congress has also received a lot of support over the years.

The Congress was fully aware that its Anna Bhagya initiative has piqued the public's interest between 2013 and 2018. It not only adopted but also built on this concept, launching six guarantee programmes, the first of which was the Gruha Lakshmi plan, under which every woman head of family in Karnataka would get Rs 2,000 (US$24.33) per month, reported Moneycontrol.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-held-in-biggest-drug-bust-in-india-crystal-meth-worth-145-bn-seized-592189">&nbsp;In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held</a>

Under the Gruha Jyoti plan, it has also committed to provide 200 units of free power to every households. While people living below the poverty line (BPL) are now battling to obtain even 4 kg of free rice under the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS), the Congress has promised to provide 10 kg of free rice per person. All of these statements sounded appealing to voters.

The corruption accusations levelled against the Basavaraj Bommai administration harmed the BJP's image. BJP state officials, including ministers, were unable to trumpet their accomplishments or explain to the public how the Narendra Modi-led administration at the Centre has benefited the people of Karnataka. In Karnataka, the charm of BJP leaders such as Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and JP Nadda has not worked. The Bajrangbali campaign similarly failed to sway voters in favour of the BJP. This time, voters drove out a large number of BJP ministers.

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After a 10-year absence, the Congress returned to power in Karnataka on its own strength on May 13, with victories or leads in 137 of 224 seats. The party has received an overwhelming mandate from the voters.

After a 10-year absence, the Congress returned to power in Karnataka on its own strength on May 13, with victories or leads in 137 of 224 seats. The party has received an overwhelming mandate from the voters. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has borne the price for "various failures." The regional party, the Janata Dal (Secular), has once again demonstrated that it is not a force to be reckoned with throughout the state. Karnataka was the BJP's lone southern state. The state upheld its tradition of not re-electing a political party. There might be a variety of reasons why an election is won or lost. However, some elements become apparent. For example, the ruling BJP is still a party that needs to spread across the state. The Congress, on the other hand, is thoroughly anchored in each district. A swing of 2-5 percentage points is enough for the Congress to prevail over the BJP. Unlike the BJP, the Congress state leaders accepted the responsibility of guiding the party to the polls, reported Moneycontrol. DK Shivakumar, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee head, and former chief minister Siddaramaiah positioned the party brilliantly in front of the people. There was no let-up in their efforts to portray the ruling BJP as the most corrupt. Efforts began with the PayCM campaign months ago. The Congress didn't simply depend on its own strategy; it also enlisted the help of political organisations to boost its campaign. ALSO WATCH | Karnataka election results: Congress wins by biggest vote share in 34 years Unlike the BJP, the Congress placed a high value on its senior Karnataka leadership. This has also contributed to the party's good mood today. The vote share of Congress has surpassed 40%, a recent high. Surprisingly, the traditional Vokkaliga belt, primarily Mandya and Hassan, supported the Congress as well. The Congress has also received a lot of support over the years. The Congress was fully aware that its Anna Bhagya initiative has piqued the public's interest between 2013 and 2018. It not only adopted but also built on this concept, launching six guarantee programmes, the first of which was the Gruha Lakshmi plan, under which every woman head of family in Karnataka would get Rs 2,000 (US$24.33) per month, reported Moneycontrol. ALSO READ | In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held Under the Gruha Jyoti plan, it has also committed to provide 200 units of free power to every households. While people living below the poverty line (BPL) are now battling to obtain even 4 kg of free rice under the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS), the Congress has promised to provide 10 kg of free rice per person. All of these statements sounded appealing to voters. The corruption accusations levelled against the Basavaraj Bommai administration harmed the BJP's image. BJP state officials, including ministers, were unable to trumpet their accomplishments or explain to the public how the Narendra Modi-led administration at the Centre has benefited the people of Karnataka. In Karnataka, the charm of BJP leaders such as Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and JP Nadda has not worked. The Bajrangbali campaign similarly failed to sway voters in favour of the BJP. This time, voters drove out a large number of BJP ministers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Karnataka elections 2023: Reasons behind Congress's triumph, BJP's failure to keep power

Congress has won the 2023 Karnataka assembly elections by the biggest vote share and seats after a whopping 34 years. Even as the counting was on, political activist Yogendra Yadav said that this election is the biggest victory for “any party in Karnataka" after 1989 during Veerendra Patil's regime when the Congress had won 178 seats with a vote share of 43.76 percent.

Karnataka election results: Congress wins by biggest vote share in 34 years

The BJP has “not been able to make the mark”, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai said conceding defeat as Congress continued to surge forward with leads in 117 seats while the BJP was ahead in 75 in Karnataka. The Janata Dal-S (JD-S), hoping to become kingmaker, was leading in 25 seats.

Karnataka Election 2023 : Rampant Congress crosses 120 in leads

Karnataka Elections 2023: BJP to introspect why it couldn't dominate in the state | India

Karnataka Election 2023: 'We've not been able to make the mark': CM concedes defeat

Karnataka Election 2023: BJP concedes defeat in Karnataka, CM Bommai says 'not able to make mark'

Karnataka Election Results: Congress takes lead over BJP in Karnataka

The Bengaluru police announced Section 144 is implemented across the entire district on Saturday in order to prevent any untoward incidents on the day of the Karnataka Assembly election's vote counting.

Karnataka Election 2023: Counting underway, section 144 imposed in Bengaluru

The battle for the South-Indian state of Karnataka has begun and voting is underway. There are a total of 224 seats in the Karnataka assembly. The winning side needs to secure at least 113, and over 5 crore people are expected to vote. The state is witnessing a three-way battle, between the ruling BJP, the opposition Congress and the JDS. The BJP wants to make history by retaining the southern state, whereas congress is banking on the anti-incumbency wave.

Karnataka Elections 2023: Most Exit polls show Congress in the lead

The battle for the South-Indian state of Karnataka has begun and voting is underway. There are a total of 224 seats in the Karnataka assembly. The winning side needs to secure at least 113, and over 5 crore people are expected to vote today. The state is witnessing a three-way battle, between the ruling BJP, the opposition Congress and the JDS. The BJP wants to make history by retaining the southern state, whereas congress is banking on the anti-incumbency wave.

Karnataka Elections 2023: BJP, Congress & JDS in a 3-way fight to reign supreme

The battle for the South-Indian state of Karnataka has begun and the voting is underway. There are a total of 224 seats in the Karnataka Assembly. The winning side needs to secure at least 113. Over 5 crore people are cross the ballot today. The state is facing a three-way battle between the ruling BJP, the opposition Congress, and the JDS. For further details, watch the video.

Karnataka : Three-way battle between BJP, Congress & JDS

The last leg of campaigning for Karnataka Assembly Polls has seen bigwigs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress (Congress) hoping to turn the tide in their favour. While the Congress is banking on an anti-incumbency wave that has worked since 1985, the ruling BJP hopes PM Narendra Modi's popularity will see them through. The prime minister was part of around 15 public meetings and roadshows over six days.

Karnataka Elections 2023: Star campaigners from BJP, Congress, JD(S) hold mega rallies

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023: The term for the Karnataka Assembly, the seventh-largest legislative body in terms of strength, ends on May 24. Thus, the Karnataka Assembly Elections will occur on May 10, 2023, in a single phase for 224 constituencies.

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023: The term for the Karnataka Assembly, the seventh-largest legislative body in terms of strength, ends on May 24. Thus, the Karnataka Assembly Elections will occur on May 10, 2023, in a single phase for 224 constituencies. The Election Commission of India will declare the election results on May 13. The winning party must have 113 seats to form a government in Karnataka Assembly. It has 36 seats reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC) and 15 for Schedules Tribes (ST). Congress has 75 seats, and JD(S) has 28 seats in the incumbent Assembly. All major political parties have kickstarted their campaigns by releasing their list of candidates and manifestos. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Meanwhile, Congress President has announced five guarantees, including Gruha Lakshmi, Anna Bhagya, Yuva Nidhi, and Shakti, for the people of Karnataka. On Monday, May 1, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar held a video conference with the officials to review election arrangements and law & order conditions in the state. According to ECI, Karnataka's total number of voters is 5,21,73,579 crores. Among them, 2.62 crores are males, and 2.59 crores are females. Moreover, the number of polling stations set across the state is 58,282. Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 Date Karnataka will vote for a new government on May 10, 2023, and the results will be out after three days on May 13. The Election Commission of India will announce the elections on their website. BJP Manifesto for Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 On Monday, May 1, BJP National President JP Nadda released the party manifesto with 16 key promises. Implementation of UCC (Uniform Civil Code) Introduction of NRC in Karnataka Financial incentives for youth Namma clinic in every ward Atal Ahara Kendra in every ward Upgradation of government schools 10 lakh job opportunities Poshana scheme Bengaluru to be the State Capital Region ₹3000 K-Agri fund Karnataka to become an e-vehicle hub Distribution of 10 lakh housing sites Three cylinders to BPL families for free Samanvya schemes to ITs, SMEs Nandini milk to BPL families 5 kg Shri Anna - Siri Dhanya through monthly ration kits Congress Manifesto for Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023 On Tuesday, May 2, Congress released its 'Sarva Jananagada Shanthiya Thota' for the May 10 elections. Here are the key takeaways from the manifesto. Gruha Jyothi promises 200 units of free power. Gruha Lakshmi offers ₹2,000 to each woman head of the family Anna Bhagya promises 10 kilograms of food grains to families with BPL card Yuva Nidhi will give ₹3,000 a month to unemployed graduates and Rs 1,500 to unemployed diploma holders Free travel to all women in regular Karnataka State Road Transport and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses To increase reservations for SCs from 15 to 17 per cent and for Scheduled Tribes from 3 to 7 per cent To restore minority reservation by 4 per cent Increase reservations for Lingayats and Vokkaliggas and other communities; pursue inclusion in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution. Overruling all unjust laws & other anti-people laws passed by the BJP govt within one year of coming to power, says the party in its manifesto ALSO READ | Karnataka Elections 2023: Election Commission of India introduces ‘Vote from Home’ option

Karnataka Elections 2023 Update: Check election & result date, seats, list of candidates & party manifestoes

An Indian court has rejected opposition leader Rahul Gandhi's appeal seeking a stay on his conviction in a criminal defamation case. The decision extends the uncertainty over whether he can contest in national elections due next year.

Rahul Gandhi: India court dismisses Congress leader's appeal against conviction

Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs. Kolar is the site of the infamous, controversial speech from 2019 that recently got Gandhi disqualified as a member of Parliament (MP) last month.&nbsp;

The Indian National Congress (INC) leader, as per ANI, launched a slew of attacks against the ruling government and also announced poll promises.&nbsp;

"If the Congress party is voted to power in Karnataka, then we will provide 200 units of free electricity to every family, Rs 2000 every month to women, a total of 10 Kg rice per month to every family, Rs 3000 to every graduate till two years and Rs 1500 monthly to diploma holders," said Rahul Gandhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-atiq-ahmed-indian-gangster-turned-politician-shot-dead-live-on-tv-583016">Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV</a>

"If you [BJP] can give thousands of crores of rupees to Adani, then we can give the money to poor, women, and youths. You helped Adani wholeheartedly, and we will wholeheartedly help the people of the state," he added.&nbsp;

"Disqualify me, put me in jail, do anything, doesn't matter," said Gandhi as he alleged that the BJP government in Karnataka was "immersed in corruption."

Gandhi pointed to the indifference being meted out to the OBC community, which are present in larger number but whose representation in government jobs were less.&nbsp;

He said that "reservation for SC/STs should be proportional to their population," and that the union government "should lift 50 per cent cap in reservation."&nbsp;

Replying to allegations that he had insulted the OBC community with his Modi surname remark, the Congress leader said that&nbsp;the representation of OBC and Dalits in the central government is not in line with their population.

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He also called on the BJP government to release the caste census report commissioned by his party-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2011.

"Only seven per cent of secretaries in central government offices are from OBC and SC/ST communities. Modiji, you talk about (the welfare of) OBCs. Let us know what their share is in the population. If you don't do this, it is an insult to OBC communities."

Back in 2019, Rahul Gandhi, during a rally in Kolar had remarked, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?."

This statement landed him in trouble, and recently he was found guilty in a defamation case over it, and sentenced to two years in prison. The prison sentence became the grounds for Gandhi's disqualification as an MP.

Urging people to vote for Congress in Karnataka's upcoming elections, Gandhi said "Aap Apna Kaam Karo, Hum Apna Kaam Karenge (You do your work and we will do ours)." Karnataka goes to Assembly polls on May 10. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 13.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs.

Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs. Kolar is the site of the infamous, controversial speech from 2019 that recently got Gandhi disqualified as a member of Parliament (MP) last month. The Indian National Congress (INC) leader, as per ANI, launched a slew of attacks against the ruling government and also announced poll promises. "If the Congress party is voted to power in Karnataka, then we will provide 200 units of free electricity to every family, Rs 2000 every month to women, a total of 10 Kg rice per month to every family, Rs 3000 to every graduate till two years and Rs 1500 monthly to diploma holders," said Rahul Gandhi. Also read | Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV "If you [BJP] can give thousands of crores of rupees to Adani, then we can give the money to poor, women, and youths. You helped Adani wholeheartedly, and we will wholeheartedly help the people of the state," he added. "Disqualify me, put me in jail, do anything, doesn't matter," said Gandhi as he alleged that the BJP government in Karnataka was "immersed in corruption." Gandhi pointed to the indifference being meted out to the OBC community, which are present in larger number but whose representation in government jobs were less. He said that "reservation for SC/STs should be proportional to their population," and that the union government "should lift 50 per cent cap in reservation." Replying to allegations that he had insulted the OBC community with his Modi surname remark, the Congress leader said that the representation of OBC and Dalits in the central government is not in line with their population. Also read | Atiq Ahmed’s killers: Drug addict, petty criminals pull off daring murder in front of TV camera crews He also called on the BJP government to release the caste census report commissioned by his party-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2011. "Only seven per cent of secretaries in central government offices are from OBC and SC/ST communities. Modiji, you talk about (the welfare of) OBCs. Let us know what their share is in the population. If you don't do this, it is an insult to OBC communities." Back in 2019, Rahul Gandhi, during a rally in Kolar had remarked, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?." This statement landed him in trouble, and recently he was found guilty in a defamation case over it, and sentenced to two years in prison. The prison sentence became the grounds for Gandhi's disqualification as an MP. Urging people to vote for Congress in Karnataka's upcoming elections, Gandhi said "Aap Apna Kaam Karo, Hum Apna Kaam Karenge (You do your work and we will do ours)." Karnataka goes to Assembly polls on May 10. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 13. (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.

Ahead of Karnataka polls, Rahul Gandhi alleges BJP state government 'immersed in corruption'

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament.

The petition filed by scholar and social activist&nbsp;Aabha Muralidharan&nbsp;on Saturday has urged the apex court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case, according to legal news portal Bar and Bench.

The petitioner said that factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act.

On Friday, Rahul, MP from southern Kerala state’s Wayanad constituency, was disqualified from the Lok Sabha after he was found guilty and sentenced to two years prison by a court in Surat city of the western state Gujarat in a&nbsp;2019 defamation case.

<h2>Gravitas: Rahul Gandhi expelled from Lok Sabha following conviction in defamation case</h2>

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The defamation case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?"

Reacting to his disqualification, Rahul said he is ready to "pay any price".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-disqualified-from-parliament-what-next-for-the-indian-opposition-leader-575354">Rahul Gandhi disqualified from Lok Sabha. What next for India’s oppn leader?</a>

"I am fighting for the voice of India. I am ready to pay any price," he tweeted in Hindi on Friday.

Following his expulsion, the former Congress chief's Wayanad seat also fell vacant. Bypolls to vacant seats in the Parliament and state legislatures must be held within six months from when the seat falls vacant, according to Section 151A of the Representation of the People Act, 2015.

While addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul targeted PM Modi over his last name which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament.

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament. The petition filed by scholar and social activist Aabha Muralidharan on Saturday has urged the apex court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case, according to legal news portal Bar and Bench. The petitioner said that factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act. On Friday, Rahul, MP from southern Kerala state’s Wayanad constituency, was disqualified from the Lok Sabha after he was found guilty and sentenced to two years prison by a court in Surat city of the western state Gujarat in a 2019 defamation case. Gravitas: Rahul Gandhi expelled from Lok Sabha following conviction in defamation case The defamation case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?" Reacting to his disqualification, Rahul said he is ready to "pay any price". Also read | Rahul Gandhi disqualified from Lok Sabha. What next for India’s oppn leader? "I am fighting for the voice of India. I am ready to pay any price," he tweeted in Hindi on Friday. Following his expulsion, the former Congress chief's Wayanad seat also fell vacant. Bypolls to vacant seats in the Parliament and state legislatures must be held within six months from when the seat falls vacant, according to Section 151A of the Representation of the People Act, 2015. While addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul targeted PM Modi over his last name which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Activist files plea in India’s apex court against law that stripped Rahul Gandhi of his MP status

Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a Member of Parliament (MP), a day after being convicted in a defamation case and sentenced to two years in jail. Congress officials have described the court order as politically motivated.

Rahul Gandhi disqualified as MP: Opposition up in arms against the Indian govt

A court in Gujarat's Surat held Indian Congress MP Rahul Gandhi guilty in a 2019 defamation case and sentenced him to two years imprisonment. The court approved Gandhi's bail on a surety of Rs 15,000 and stayed the sentence for 30 days to allow him to appeal.

Rahul Gandhi convicted, gets bail in 2019 defamation case | WION Dispatch

A bill has been introduced in the US congress that prevents the President from unilaterally ordering a military action. This comes as Biden seeks re-election. History shows that US Presidents win re-election during war time. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Russia-Ukraine war | US Congress moves to take away war powers from Biden | US Elections

Twenty years after the US and its allies invaded Iraq, the United States Congress now wants its war powers back. The US lawmakers have signalled support for a bipartisan bill in the Senate that would repeal the President's powers to authorize wars.

Twenty years after US invaded Iraq, Congress wants its war powers back

Federal Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad slammed Congress&nbsp;leader Rahul Gandhi for 'shaming' India's democracy, polity, parliament, judicial system, and security for&nbsp;'seeking foreign intervention' on Tuesday (March 7).&nbsp;

Furthermore, he asked Rahul Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Sonia Gandhi whether they agreed with his comments, and if not, he suggested "disowning" them.

"BJP would like to emphatically state with great agony that Rahul Gandhi, in his speeches, has sought to shame India's democracy, polity, parliament, political system, and judicial system," the Union minister said during a press conference.

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Rahul Gandhi's "utterly irresponsible" remark that he was "asking for involvement by America and Europe to restore democracy" prompted him to contact Sonia Gandhi and Kharge for their opinions on the matter.

Gandhi&nbsp;claimed recently that the US and Europe are not doing enough to restore democracy in India because they are "receiving trade and money" from the nation. He made this claim at a public appearance in London.

His comparison of the RSS with the Muslim Brotherhood was further criticised by the Union minister. A nationalist group, the RSS Being swayamsevaks, those of us seated here are pleased to be so, he said. Rahul Gandhi is "totally under the grasp of Maoist mind process," the man further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Federal Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for 'shaming' India's democracy, polity, parliament, judicial system, and security for 'seeking foreign intervention' on Tuesday (March 7).

Federal Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for 'shaming' India's democracy, polity, parliament, judicial system, and security for 'seeking foreign intervention' on Tuesday (March 7). Furthermore, he asked Rahul Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Sonia Gandhi whether they agreed with his comments, and if not, he suggested "disowning" them. "BJP would like to emphatically state with great agony that Rahul Gandhi, in his speeches, has sought to shame India's democracy, polity, parliament, political system, and judicial system," the Union minister said during a press conference. ALSO READ | 'Strangers in eyes of law': WION speaks with gay couple as India's top court set to hear petitions on marriage Rahul Gandhi's "utterly irresponsible" remark that he was "asking for involvement by America and Europe to restore democracy" prompted him to contact Sonia Gandhi and Kharge for their opinions on the matter. Gandhi claimed recently that the US and Europe are not doing enough to restore democracy in India because they are "receiving trade and money" from the nation. He made this claim at a public appearance in London. His comparison of the RSS with the Muslim Brotherhood was further criticised by the Union minister. A nationalist group, the RSS Being swayamsevaks, those of us seated here are pleased to be so, he said. Rahul Gandhi is "totally under the grasp of Maoist mind process," the man further said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: BJP's Ravi Shankar Prasad slams Rahul Gandhi for ‘seeking foreign intervention’

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