As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">state</a>.

"We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest.

Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision.

Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us".

In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.&nbsp;

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state.

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state. "We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest. Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision. Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us". In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.

Maharashtra: Congress-Sena-NCP will meet governor tomorrow to form government in the state, says Prithviraj Chavan

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-meeting-of-mlas-from-ncp-shiv-sena-congress-called-today-to-elect-leader-264633">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing&nbsp;agreement.&nbsp;

"Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP <a href="https://t.co/n4LPqqlaOo">pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199302395735363585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-has-given-consent-to-become-maharashtra-chief-minister-sanjay-raut-263954">Uddhav Thackeray </a>to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this <a href="https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI">https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199300514371915776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said.&nbsp;

Earlier today, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Devendra Fadnavis </a>resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly.

In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Maharashtra CM </a>after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra.

The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing agreement. "Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI. Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked Uddhav Thackeray to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed. Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said. Earlier today, Devendra Fadnavis resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly. In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra. The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics: Senior NCP leader

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader".

Taking to Twitter, NCP leader Nawab Malik tweeted, "Today 5 pm joint meeting of NCP, SS and INC MLAs to elect a leader." 
The meeting will place at the Trident Hotel, Bandra Kurla Complex.

A floor test will be held in the Maharashtra Assembly on November 27, the Supreme Court ordered today, days after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as the state's chief minister, nixing Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP's bid to form the government.

A floor test is a constitutional mechanism under which a chief minister can be asked to prove majority in the state Assembly.

A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ramana, passed the order on a joint petition filed by the three parties challenging Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's decision to administer the oath to Fadnavis as Chief Minister and NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy during the early hours of Saturday.

The BJP had won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month's assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over power-sharing.

On the occasion of Constitution Day today, Opposition parties, including Congress staged a protest against government formation by BJP in Maharashtra in front of Ambedkar Statue inside Parliament complex while a joint sitting of both the houses was underway in the Central Hall. (ANI)

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader".

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader". Taking to Twitter, NCP leader Nawab Malik tweeted, "Today 5 pm joint meeting of NCP, SS and INC MLAs to elect a leader." The meeting will place at the Trident Hotel, Bandra Kurla Complex. A floor test will be held in the Maharashtra Assembly on November 27, the Supreme Court ordered today, days after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as the state's chief minister, nixing Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP's bid to form the government. A floor test is a constitutional mechanism under which a chief minister can be asked to prove majority in the state Assembly. A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ramana, passed the order on a joint petition filed by the three parties challenging Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's decision to administer the oath to Fadnavis as Chief Minister and NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy during the early hours of Saturday. The BJP had won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month's assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over power-sharing. On the occasion of Constitution Day today, Opposition parties, including Congress staged a protest against government formation by BJP in Maharashtra in front of Ambedkar Statue inside Parliament complex while a joint sitting of both the houses was underway in the Central Hall. (ANI)

Maharashtra: Meeting of MLAs from NCP, Shiv Sena, Congress called today to elect 'leader'

Watch in WION Fineprint: Alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress & NCP in Maharashtra claims strength of 162 MLAs. Watch this video to know more.

Alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress & NCP in Maharashtra claims strength of 162 MLAs

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 25th, 2019

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra.

The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-accuses-bjp-of-murdering-democracy-in-maharashtra-264335">Congress</a>, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies.

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Youth Congress leaders protest against BJP's govt formation in Maharashtra

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 22, 2019

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-struggle-congress-ncp-say-discussions-positive-will-give-stable-govt-soon-263474">will form government in Maharashtra</a> before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena. 
 
He also informed that three parties will collectively decide about power-sharing in Mumbai. 
 
"The time has come, before December 1 the process of formation of the government will be over and the Chief Minister will also be decided. Till yesterday, marathon meetings of Congress-NCP were held here at the NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's residence. In the next two days we will move ahead towards government formation," said Sanjay Raut. 
 
"The three parties will collectively decide on power-sharing in Mumbai," he added. 
 
"The chief minister will be of Shiv Sena. People want Uddhav Thackeray to be the Chief Minister," said Raut. 
 
A meeting of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders was held at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's residence on Wednesday over the government formation in Maharashtra.

Watch: Will the political impasse in Maharashtra extend?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-maharashtra-elections-will-the-political-impasse-extend-261485/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Leaders from both the parties were present including Ahmed Patel, KC Venugopal, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Sule among others. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Maharashtra came under President's Rule</a> after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 
 
BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the chief minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. 
 
Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. 
 
The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. 
The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. 
 
The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party will form government in Maharashtra before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday exuded confidence that NCP, Congress, and his party will form government in Maharashtra before December 1 and once again asserted that the chief minister will be from Sena. He also informed that three parties will collectively decide about power-sharing in Mumbai. "The time has come, before December 1 the process of formation of the government will be over and the Chief Minister will also be decided. Till yesterday, marathon meetings of Congress-NCP were held here at the NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's residence. In the next two days we will move ahead towards government formation," said Sanjay Raut. "The three parties will collectively decide on power-sharing in Mumbai," he added. "The chief minister will be of Shiv Sena. People want Uddhav Thackeray to be the Chief Minister," said Raut. A meeting of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders was held at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's residence on Wednesday over the government formation in Maharashtra. Watch: Will the political impasse in Maharashtra extend? Leaders from both the parties were present including Ahmed Patel, KC Venugopal, Mallikarjun Kharge, Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Sule among others. Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the chief minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena triad to form Maharashtra government before December 1: Sanjay Raut

PM Modi addresses in the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament. Let's listen in...

PM Modi addresses the 250th session of the upper house of Parliament

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons". 
 
The SPG security cover given to Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-downgrade-gandhi-familys-security-cover-from-spg-rank-to-z-260793">was withdrawn last week</a> by the central government after a security review. Their security detail was replaced with 'Z plus' security cover of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). 
 
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, on Tuesday gave an adjournment motion notice in the House on the Home Ministry's move to remove the special protection from the Gandhi family. 
 
Chowdhury and DMK leader TR Baalu later sought to raise the issue during zero-Hour but Speaker Om Birla did not let them speak on the issue saying the issue was already raised by them. 
 
Yesterday, Congress members protested in Lok Sabha and came near the Speaker's podium during question hour.

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons".

The Congress party on Wednesday gave a Suspension of Business Notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267, over "withdrawal of Special Protection Group (SPG) cover to certain persons". The SPG security cover given to Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was withdrawn last week by the central government after a security review. Their security detail was replaced with 'Z plus' security cover of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, on Tuesday gave an adjournment motion notice in the House on the Home Ministry's move to remove the special protection from the Gandhi family. Chowdhury and DMK leader TR Baalu later sought to raise the issue during zero-Hour but Speaker Om Birla did not let them speak on the issue saying the issue was already raised by them. Yesterday, Congress members protested in Lok Sabha and came near the Speaker's podium during question hour.

Congress gives Suspension of Business notice over downgrade in security cover

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meeting-of-congress-ncp-leaders-tomorrow-in-delhi-263226">The meeting</a> will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-will-discuss-maharashtra-farmers-issues-with-pm-modi-today-263275">Sharad Pawar's</a> residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm. 
 
Speaking to ANI, NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik said, "Today, there is a meeting of the Congress and NCP leaders at 6 Janpath in Sharad Pawar's residence." 
In that meeting, leaders of both the parties from Maharashtra and Delhi will discuss the current political situation in Maharashtra. 
 
"There is a presidential rule in Maharashtra. People and farmers are suffering. The administration has&nbsp;collapsed. There should be an alternative government. There is a meeting between the two parties to find a solution," he said. 
 
Speaking about the plan of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to form government in Maharashtra, Malik said, "When Sena and BJP have taken a decision not to form the government, three parties have to come together to form the government. We have to take everyone into confidence before making a decision. A process is underway. Without Sena, there cannot be an alternative government." 
 
Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.

BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday.

The Shiv Sena is now in parley&nbsp;with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. The meeting will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm.

A meeting between the top leaders of NCP and Congress will be held on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Maharashtra. The meeting will take place at the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar's residence at Janpath in the national capital at 5 pm. Speaking to ANI, NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik said, "Today, there is a meeting of the Congress and NCP leaders at 6 Janpath in Sharad Pawar's residence." In that meeting, leaders of both the parties from Maharashtra and Delhi will discuss the current political situation in Maharashtra. "There is a presidential rule in Maharashtra. People and farmers are suffering. The administration has collapsed. There should be an alternative government. There is a meeting between the two parties to find a solution," he said. Speaking about the plan of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to form government in Maharashtra, Malik said, "When Sena and BJP have taken a decision not to form the government, three parties have to come together to form the government. We have to take everyone into confidence before making a decision. A process is underway. Without Sena, there cannot be an alternative government." Maharashtra came under President's Rule after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday. The Shiv Sena is now in parley with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Maharashtra political crisis: Top leaders of NCP and Congress to meet in New Delhi today

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">Congress and NCP </a>had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. <a href="https://t.co/148KbFDhs0">pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197168535824240640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's rule </a>as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM.&nbsp;

"When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. <a href="https://t.co/LiYgmedGft">https://t.co/LiYgmedGft</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197178488077217792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP.

Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi</a>, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).&nbsp;

However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday&nbsp;said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/51osLVVtDA">https://t.co/51osLVVtDA</a> <a href="https://t.co/TXG0npr5nM">pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197171067220983808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP.&nbsp;

Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years.

BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. &nbsp;A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra. Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under President's rule as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them. On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM. "When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. https://t.co/LiYgmedGft — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP. Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands. Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. https://t.co/51osLVVtDA pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP. Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years. BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.

Maharashtra power struggle: Congress, NCP say discussions 'positive', will give 'stable' govt soon

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Will the Opposition support the Citizenship Amendment Bill? Will the issue of the economy, unemployment bother the government?

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec

Today is the first day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session. Let's listen in...

First day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Govt to push for Citizenship bill in the winter session of the Parliament.

Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-stage-sadak-bandh-throughout-telangana-on-november-19-262785">BJP </a>will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates.

"BJP will not contest the Mumbai Mayor's elections as it is in minority in Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and does not have the numbers. BJP does not want to have an alliance with any opposition party. In 2022, the party will have the numbers on its own," said BJP leader Ashish Shelar.

NCP Mumbai President Nawab Malik, on the other hand, said that the party will contest the Deputy Mayor's post and is most likely to support Shiv Sena for the Mayor's post. 
Meanwhile, Congress Mumbai president Eknath Gaikwad said that the party is prepared to field its candidate against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-will-be-from-shiv-sena-says-senior-ncp-leader-262295">Shiv Sena</a> and is waiting for a nod from the high-command in Delhi.

"We are in opposition in the BMC. We have sorted out 3-4 candidates, out of which one will file the nomination for the Mayor's post. We have enough time as the deadline for nomination is 6 pm today," Gaikwad added.

There are 27 municipal bodies, including Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Aurangabad, where Mayoral elections are due on November 22.

BMC has a total of 227 numbers of seats. While the Shiv Sena has 94 corporators, BJP, Congress and NCP have 83, 29 and eight, respectively

BJP will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates.

BJP will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates. "BJP will not contest the Mumbai Mayor's elections as it is in minority in Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and does not have the numbers. BJP does not want to have an alliance with any opposition party. In 2022, the party will have the numbers on its own," said BJP leader Ashish Shelar. NCP Mumbai President Nawab Malik, on the other hand, said that the party will contest the Deputy Mayor's post and is most likely to support Shiv Sena for the Mayor's post. Meanwhile, Congress Mumbai president Eknath Gaikwad said that the party is prepared to field its candidate against Shiv Sena and is waiting for a nod from the high-command in Delhi. "We are in opposition in the BMC. We have sorted out 3-4 candidates, out of which one will file the nomination for the Mayor's post. We have enough time as the deadline for nomination is 6 pm today," Gaikwad added. There are 27 municipal bodies, including Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Aurangabad, where Mayoral elections are due on November 22. BMC has a total of 227 numbers of seats. While the Shiv Sena has 94 corporators, BJP, Congress and NCP have 83, 29 and eight, respectively

BJP not to contest Mumbai Mayoral elections, Congress may field candidate against Shiv Sena

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. 
 
The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies. 
 
Venkatrao Ghorpade will be contesting from Vijayanagara, Rizwan Arshad from Shivajinagar and KB Chandrashekar from Krishnarajpet Assembly seat. 
 
Congress has also named Praveen Peter as its candidate for the forthcoming election to Legislative Council of Karnataka from Bangalore Teachers' constituency. 
 
Elections to 15 Assembly seats will be held on December 5.

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies.

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies. Venkatrao Ghorpade will be contesting from Vijayanagara, Rizwan Arshad from Shivajinagar and KB Chandrashekar from Krishnarajpet Assembly seat. Congress has also named Praveen Peter as its candidate for the forthcoming election to Legislative Council of Karnataka from Bangalore Teachers' constituency. Elections to 15 Assembly seats will be held on December 5.

Karnataka: Congress declares names of six candidates contesting Assembly by-polls

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted.

"I feel that there will be no difference. In Indian experience, in our democracy, the governments are changed but there is no problem with the projects and they continue," said Nitin Gadkari.

"I don't know which government will come. Any government whether NCP, Congress, BJP or Shiv Sena they will support the positive policies, the development policies and the big projects," he added.

When asked about the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra, Gadkari said that anything can happen as he drew parallels with cricket and politics. "Anything can happen in cricket and politics. Sometimes you feel you are losing the match, but the result is exactly the opposite. Also, I have just arrived from Delhi, I don't know the detailed politics of Maharashtra,&nbsp;he said."

Leaders of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, who are having talks to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP) which will now be sent to senior leaderships of three parties.

BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government after logjam with Shiv Sean which insisted on an equal share of power and the post of Chief Minister for half-term. The state <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari </a>later gave time to both Shiv Sena and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-tussle-ncp-says-in-no-hurry-will-decide-on-supporting-shiv-sena-261653">NCP</a>&nbsp;which also expressed their inability to form the government within the given time-frame.&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted. "I feel that there will be no difference. In Indian experience, in our democracy, the governments are changed but there is no problem with the projects and they continue," said Nitin Gadkari. "I don't know which government will come. Any government whether NCP, Congress, BJP or Shiv Sena they will support the positive policies, the development policies and the big projects," he added. When asked about the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra, Gadkari said that anything can happen as he drew parallels with cricket and politics. "Anything can happen in cricket and politics. Sometimes you feel you are losing the match, but the result is exactly the opposite. Also, I have just arrived from Delhi, I don't know the detailed politics of Maharashtra, he said." Leaders of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, who are having talks to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP) which will now be sent to senior leaderships of three parties. BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government after logjam with Shiv Sean which insisted on an equal share of power and the post of Chief Minister for half-term. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later gave time to both Shiv Sena and NCP which also expressed their inability to form the government within the given time-frame.

Whichever group forms govt in Maharashtra, developmental work will continue: Nitin Gadkari

'No inquiry needed on Rafale' says Supreme Court; Dismisses review pleas. Watch video to know more.

'No inquiry needed on Rafale' says Supreme Court; Dismisses review pleas

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-rafale-claims-after-sc-verdict-demands-apology-262036">Rahul Gandhi</a> for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi closed the contempt petition and accepted Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful.

"We would not like to continue these proceedings further and, thus, close the contempt proceedings with a word of caution for the contemnor to be more careful in the future. No court should be dragged into this political discourse," the apex court stated in the verdict.

The comments were made by Gandhi in pursuant to the top court's order on the Rafale deal. Gandhi, who was then the president of the Congress party, allegedly said that the apex court had accepted that "chowkidar"&nbsp;(a reference to Prime Minister Modi), is a "chor"&nbsp;(thief).

BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi accused Gandhi of misquoting the court and filed a contempt petition. Gandhi had then tendered an unconditional apology to the court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, today observed that Gandhi made allegations without verification.

"The contemnor (Rahul Gandhi) deemed it appropriate to make statements as if this Court had given an imprimatur to his allegations against the Prime Minister, which was far from the truth," the bench said.

The top court said that initially Gandhi did not accept his mistake or tendered an apology, but later during the course of proceedings, a "better wisdom" dawned on him.

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse.

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi closed the contempt petition and accepted Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful. "We would not like to continue these proceedings further and, thus, close the contempt proceedings with a word of caution for the contemnor to be more careful in the future. No court should be dragged into this political discourse," the apex court stated in the verdict. The comments were made by Gandhi in pursuant to the top court's order on the Rafale deal. Gandhi, who was then the president of the Congress party, allegedly said that the apex court had accepted that "chowkidar" (a reference to Prime Minister Modi), is a "chor" (thief). BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi accused Gandhi of misquoting the court and filed a contempt petition. Gandhi had then tendered an unconditional apology to the court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, today observed that Gandhi made allegations without verification. "The contemnor (Rahul Gandhi) deemed it appropriate to make statements as if this Court had given an imprimatur to his allegations against the Prime Minister, which was far from the truth," the bench said. The top court said that initially Gandhi did not accept his mistake or tendered an apology, but later during the course of proceedings, a "better wisdom" dawned on him.

Court should not be dragged into political discourse: Supreme Court on Rahul Gandhi contempt case

Home Minister and BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday sought an apology from Congress after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-rafale-review-petitions-261965"> Supreme Court dismissed review petitions</a> in the Rafale case and said that judgment was a befitting reply to those leaders and parties who rely "on malicious and baseless campaigns".

Shah said the verdict reaffirms the government's credentials as one which is transparent and corruption-free.

"Supreme Court's decision to dismiss the review petition on Rafale is a befitting reply to those leaders and parties who rely on malicious and baseless campaigns. Today's decision, yet again, reaffirms Modi sarkar's credentials as a govt which is transparent and corruption-free," he said.

Shah said the top court's ruling in the matter proved that the disruption of proceedings in Parliament was a "sham".

Watch: 'No inquiry needed on Rafale' says Supreme Court; Dismisses review pleas

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-inquiry-needed-on-rafale-says-supreme-court-dismisses-review-pleas-261986/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his allegations against the government about Rafale controversy saying "politics was above national interest for him" and sought an apology.

"Now, it has been proved that the disruption of Parliament over Rafale was a sham. Time could have been better utilised for the welfare of people. After today's rebuke from SC, Congress and its leader, for whom politics is above national interest, must apologise to the nation," Shah said.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case on December 14, 2018.

A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld the purchase of 36 Rafale jets by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France.

The top court also accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for bringing in the court ruling in relation to his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman&nbsp;is the thief) remark in the Rafale case and said that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful.

Home Minister and BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday sought an apology from Congress after Supreme Court dismissed review petitions in the Rafale case and said that judgment was a befitting reply to those leaders and parties who rely "on malicious and baseless campaigns".

Home Minister and BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday sought an apology from Congress after Supreme Court dismissed review petitions in the Rafale case and said that judgment was a befitting reply to those leaders and parties who rely "on malicious and baseless campaigns". Shah said the verdict reaffirms the government's credentials as one which is transparent and corruption-free. "Supreme Court's decision to dismiss the review petition on Rafale is a befitting reply to those leaders and parties who rely on malicious and baseless campaigns. Today's decision, yet again, reaffirms Modi sarkar's credentials as a govt which is transparent and corruption-free," he said. Shah said the top court's ruling in the matter proved that the disruption of proceedings in Parliament was a "sham". Watch: 'No inquiry needed on Rafale' says Supreme Court; Dismisses review pleas × He also targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his allegations against the government about Rafale controversy saying "politics was above national interest for him" and sought an apology. "Now, it has been proved that the disruption of Parliament over Rafale was a sham. Time could have been better utilised for the welfare of people. After today's rebuke from SC, Congress and its leader, for whom politics is above national interest, must apologise to the nation," Shah said. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case on December 14, 2018. A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld the purchase of 36 Rafale jets by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France. The top court also accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for bringing in the court ruling in relation to his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark in the Rafale case and said that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful.

Rafale deal verdict: Supreme Court's decision a befitting reply to those relying on malicious campaigns, says Amit Shah

President Donald Trump is skipping the first televised hearings in his impeachment investigation, preferring instead to keep working, according to the White House spokeswoman Wednesday.

"He's in the Oval (office) in meetings. Not watching. He's working," Stephanie Grisham said more than an hour into the public hearing in Congress.

Senior Democratic and Republican lawmakers presented duelling narratives on Wednesday as a US congressional impeachment enquiry that threatens Donald Trump's tumultuous presidency entered a crucial new phase with the first public hearing.

Democrats leading the US House of Representatives probe have summoned three US diplomats - all of whom have previously expressed alarm in closed-door testimony about Trump's dealings with US ally Ukraine - to detail their concerns under the glare of wall-to-wall news coverage this week. The public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday.

With a potential television audience of tens of millions looking on, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff, chairman of the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee, opened the historic session - the first impeachment spectacle in two decades - in an ornate hearing room packed with journalists, lawmakers and members of the public.

Schiff's accusations that Trump abused his power was met by a staunch denial by the panel's senior Republican, Devin Nunes, of the Republican president's complicity in a saga that revolves around whether Trump and his aides improperly pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on a political rival for his political benefit.

The day's two witnesses - William Taylor, the top US diplomat in Ukraine, and George Kent, the deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs - followed with opening statements echoing their earlier closed-door testimony about their alarm over efforts to get Ukraine to open an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination for the 2020 election.

"The questions presented by this impeachment enquiry are whether President Trump sought to exploit that ally's vulnerability and invite Ukraine's interference in our elections," Schiff said in his opening statement.

"Our answer to these questions will affect not only the future of this presidency, but the future of the presidency itself, and what kind of conduct or misconduct the American people may come to expect from their commander-in-chief," Schiff said.

Schiff added, "If this is not impeachable conduct, what is?"

This week's hearings, where Americans are hearing directly for the first time from people involved in events that sparked the congressional inquiry, may pave the way for the Democratic-led House to approve articles of impeachment - formal charges - against Trump.

That would lead to a trial in the Senate on whether to convict Trump of those charges and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump's removal.

Nunes accused the Democrats of conducting a "carefully orchestrated smear campaign" and of using the hearings as a "televised theatrical performance."

He hewed to the Republican strategy of arguing that Trump did nothing wrong or impeachable when he asked Ukraine's new president to investigate prominent Democrat Joe Biden, a former US vice president and key 2020 re-election rival.

"It's nothing more than an impeachment process in search of a crime," Nunes said.

Schiff said the inquiry looks at whether Trump sought to condition official acts such as a White House meeting or U.S. military assistance on Ukraine's willingness to carry out two political investigations that would help his re-election campaign.

"And if President Trump did either, whether such an abuse of his power is compatible with the office of the presidency?" Schiff asked.

The focus of the inquiry is on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to open a corruption investigation into Biden and his son Hunter Biden and into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, meddled in the 2016 US election. Hunter Biden had worked for a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma.

Democrats are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting investigations politically beneficial to Trump. The money - approved by the US Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Ukraine.

President Donald Trump is skipping the first televised hearings in his impeachment investigation, preferring instead to keep working, according to the White House spokeswoman Wednesday.

President Donald Trump is skipping the first televised hearings in his impeachment investigation, preferring instead to keep working, according to the White House spokeswoman Wednesday. "He's in the Oval (office) in meetings. Not watching. He's working," Stephanie Grisham said more than an hour into the public hearing in Congress. Senior Democratic and Republican lawmakers presented duelling narratives on Wednesday as a US congressional impeachment enquiry that threatens Donald Trump's tumultuous presidency entered a crucial new phase with the first public hearing. Democrats leading the US House of Representatives probe have summoned three US diplomats - all of whom have previously expressed alarm in closed-door testimony about Trump's dealings with US ally Ukraine - to detail their concerns under the glare of wall-to-wall news coverage this week. The public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday. With a potential television audience of tens of millions looking on, Democratic Representative Adam Schiff, chairman of the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee, opened the historic session - the first impeachment spectacle in two decades - in an ornate hearing room packed with journalists, lawmakers and members of the public. Schiff's accusations that Trump abused his power was met by a staunch denial by the panel's senior Republican, Devin Nunes, of the Republican president's complicity in a saga that revolves around whether Trump and his aides improperly pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on a political rival for his political benefit. The day's two witnesses - William Taylor, the top US diplomat in Ukraine, and George Kent, the deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs - followed with opening statements echoing their earlier closed-door testimony about their alarm over efforts to get Ukraine to open an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination for the 2020 election. "The questions presented by this impeachment enquiry are whether President Trump sought to exploit that ally's vulnerability and invite Ukraine's interference in our elections," Schiff said in his opening statement. "Our answer to these questions will affect not only the future of this presidency, but the future of the presidency itself, and what kind of conduct or misconduct the American people may come to expect from their commander-in-chief," Schiff said. Schiff added, "If this is not impeachable conduct, what is?" This week's hearings, where Americans are hearing directly for the first time from people involved in events that sparked the congressional inquiry, may pave the way for the Democratic-led House to approve articles of impeachment - formal charges - against Trump. That would lead to a trial in the Senate on whether to convict Trump of those charges and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump's removal. Nunes accused the Democrats of conducting a "carefully orchestrated smear campaign" and of using the hearings as a "televised theatrical performance." He hewed to the Republican strategy of arguing that Trump did nothing wrong or impeachable when he asked Ukraine's new president to investigate prominent Democrat Joe Biden, a former US vice president and key 2020 re-election rival. "It's nothing more than an impeachment process in search of a crime," Nunes said. Schiff said the inquiry looks at whether Trump sought to condition official acts such as a White House meeting or U.S. military assistance on Ukraine's willingness to carry out two political investigations that would help his re-election campaign. "And if President Trump did either, whether such an abuse of his power is compatible with the office of the presidency?" Schiff asked. The focus of the inquiry is on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to open a corruption investigation into Biden and his son Hunter Biden and into a discredited theory that Ukraine, not Russia, meddled in the 2016 US election. Hunter Biden had worked for a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma. Democrats are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting investigations politically beneficial to Trump. The money - approved by the US Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Ukraine.

Trump 'not watching' impeachment hearing: White House spokeswoman

Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommends President's rule in state: Sources. Watch video to know more.

Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommends President's rule in state: Sources

According to Sources, In Maharashtra, the National Congress Party has supported Shiv Sena to form the government but Congress asks for more time from the governor and mentions the need for more talks with NCP. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

NCP lend its support to Shiv Sena, Congress asks for more time

According to Sources, In Maharashtra, the National Congress Party has supported Shiv Sena with Congress & the stake has been claimed to form the government as well to the Governor. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

Sources: NCP supported Shiv Sena with Congress in Maharashtra, stake claimed to form govt

BJP's former chief minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis told the Governor, 'We don't have numbers, can't form the government in Maharashtra'. Watch this video to find out more.

Maharashtra: 'We don't have numbers, can't form govt,' BJP to the Governor

'BJP won't make govt in Maharashtra'. Source told that Shiv Sena-NCP came together and got Congress to support from outside. Watch this video to find out more.

'BJP won't make govt in Maharashtra,' As per sources, Shiv Sena-NCP to come together

WION got to know from Source that NCP ready to lend support, Congress to lend outside support to Shiv Sena. Watch this video know more in detail.

Source: NCP ready to lend support, Congress to lend outside support to Shiv Sena

Withdrawal of SPG from Gandhis has ignited a public debate on security for the first family of the Congress. The Opposition has called the move petty whereas Centre argues that decision was made after a detailed security review. The argument is that SPG’s withdrawal is akin to a vendetta and not based on actual assessment.

Congress is comparing the withdrawal of SPG with that of Rajiv Gandhi who was subsequently assassinated by LTTE terrorists in India.&nbsp; 
 
Unlike Rajiv Gandhi, the three Gandhis will continue to receive Z+ security but Congress has already accused Home Minister Amit Shah of petty politics. The difference in two situations lies in the detail.

Former PM Rajiv Gandhi’s security was withdrawn but not replaced adequately by the government of the day. He stood truly exposed. The inadequate security led to his brutal assassination by LTTE bombers who wanted to avenge IPKF operation in Sri Lanka.

Though the fact is that the SPG Act then only provided security to the sitting Prime Ministers. The Act was amended subsequently and provision of security to former PM and their immediate family for 10 years was made. In 2003, the Act was again amended, and it was decided that a yearly assessment would be done for former PMs and their families a year after demitting office. It was also decided that the assessment would be done on a yearly basis. It is through this amendment of 2003, Gandhis continued to enjoy SPG protection.

On the other hand, Indira Gandhi’s case was completely different. Despite warning from intelligence agencies that certain men from her details be removed, Indira Gandhi refused to do it as assessment rested on the religion of the security guards. Rest is history. She was assassinated by her own bodyguard who was indoctrinated post-Operation Blue Star in Amritsar.

Today, the charges and counter-charges disguise the real issue. The real issue is why should security be treated as a status symbol by a politician?

Why should political parties be in the position to choose a security agency for their respective leaders? Do parties get to decide the level of security threat?

Do security agencies buckle under political pressure and make decisions based on preferences of political masters? Lastly, has MHA taken the decision strictly on merit?

A lot of Congress leaders are upset that the courtesy extended to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not extended to former PM Manmohan Singh. Atal Bihari lost office in 2004 but UPA throughout its tenure ensured that he enjoyed SPG cover.

Even Narendra Modi led government did not withdraw SPG cover of&nbsp;Atal Bihari Vajpayee till he passed away. But in the case of Manmohan Singh, SPG was withdrawn in 2019 and he was provided Z+ security by the paramilitary.

This brings us to the question of security for Gandhis.&nbsp;

No political party or group interest can demand a particular agency provide security to them. No family can enjoy a particular type of security for perpetuity, but it should also be ensured that the state should stop using security as a stick to beat an opponent. Personal protection must be provided on the basis of threat and not on the basis of popular perception or history of a family.&nbsp;

Security must depend on the immediate threat to a person and should not be treated as a status symbol. Throughout the modern world, the security regime of former premiers gets downgraded and size entirely depends on the threat perception. Gandhis have enjoyed the security from 1991 onwards.

Lastly, in politics, rarely decisions come without political angle. Whatever may be the cause of the decision, it keeps BJP’s core constituency happy. Any political attack on Gandhi keeps their flock together. It further strengthens the message that BJP under Modi is not business as usual. Courtesies displayed by NDA 1 will not be extended in the new regime.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Withdrawal of SPG from Gandhis has ignited a public debate on security for the first family of the Congress. The Opposition has called the move petty whereas Centre argues that decision was made after a detailed security review.

Withdrawal of SPG from Gandhis has ignited a public debate on security for the first family of the Congress. The Opposition has called the move petty whereas Centre argues that decision was made after a detailed security review. The argument is that SPG’s withdrawal is akin to a vendetta and not based on actual assessment. Congress is comparing the withdrawal of SPG with that of Rajiv Gandhi who was subsequently assassinated by LTTE terrorists in India. Unlike Rajiv Gandhi, the three Gandhis will continue to receive Z+ security but Congress has already accused Home Minister Amit Shah of petty politics. The difference in two situations lies in the detail. Former PM Rajiv Gandhi’s security was withdrawn but not replaced adequately by the government of the day. He stood truly exposed. The inadequate security led to his brutal assassination by LTTE bombers who wanted to avenge IPKF operation in Sri Lanka. Though the fact is that the SPG Act then only provided security to the sitting Prime Ministers. The Act was amended subsequently and provision of security to former PM and their immediate family for 10 years was made. In 2003, the Act was again amended, and it was decided that a yearly assessment would be done for former PMs and their families a year after demitting office. It was also decided that the assessment would be done on a yearly basis. It is through this amendment of 2003, Gandhis continued to enjoy SPG protection. On the other hand, Indira Gandhi’s case was completely different. Despite warning from intelligence agencies that certain men from her details be removed, Indira Gandhi refused to do it as assessment rested on the religion of the security guards. Rest is history. She was assassinated by her own bodyguard who was indoctrinated post-Operation Blue Star in Amritsar. Today, the charges and counter-charges disguise the real issue. The real issue is why should security be treated as a status symbol by a politician? Why should political parties be in the position to choose a security agency for their respective leaders? Do parties get to decide the level of security threat? Do security agencies buckle under political pressure and make decisions based on preferences of political masters? Lastly, has MHA taken the decision strictly on merit? A lot of Congress leaders are upset that the courtesy extended to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not extended to former PM Manmohan Singh. Atal Bihari lost office in 2004 but UPA throughout its tenure ensured that he enjoyed SPG cover. Even Narendra Modi led government did not withdraw SPG cover of Atal Bihari Vajpayee till he passed away. But in the case of Manmohan Singh, SPG was withdrawn in 2019 and he was provided Z+ security by the paramilitary. This brings us to the question of security for Gandhis. No political party or group interest can demand a particular agency provide security to them. No family can enjoy a particular type of security for perpetuity, but it should also be ensured that the state should stop using security as a stick to beat an opponent. Personal protection must be provided on the basis of threat and not on the basis of popular perception or history of a family. Security must depend on the immediate threat to a person and should not be treated as a status symbol. Throughout the modern world, the security regime of former premiers gets downgraded and size entirely depends on the threat perception. Gandhis have enjoyed the security from 1991 onwards. Lastly, in politics, rarely decisions come without political angle. Whatever may be the cause of the decision, it keeps BJP’s core constituency happy. Any political attack on Gandhi keeps their flock together. It further strengthens the message that BJP under Modi is not business as usual. Courtesies displayed by NDA 1 will not be extended in the new regime. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Politics of security: Withdrawal of Gandhis' SPG cover

The government has withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover of Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her children Rahul and Priyanka, and they will now be given Z-plus security by the CRPF, officials said on Friday. Gandhi family to be protected by CRPF now instead of Special Protection Group.

Gandhi family to be protected by CRPF now instead of Special Protection Group

The government has withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover of Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her children Rahul and Priyanka, and they will now be given Z-plus security by the CRPF, officials said on Friday.

SPG security withdrawn from the Gandhi family, 'Z+ protection' provided

congress

Congress, News on Congress, stories on Congress, articles on Congress, Congress stories at Wion, Congress news, Congress latest news