A day after two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs backed the Kamal Nath government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Leader of the Opposition in Assembly senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava on Thursday asked Congress not to rejoice over the development.

&nbsp;"They should not boast. They should bring a trust vote to prove their majority," Bhargava added.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, two BJP MLAs - Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul - voted in support of Criminal Law (Madhya Pradesh Amendment) Bill, 2019, when it was put to vote.

&nbsp;"Today's voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Kamal Nath said on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Shivraj Singh Chauhan said that BJP should not be held responsible if Congress government in Madhya Pradesh faced the same fate as Karnataka government

"There is an internal conflict in Congress, and support of BSP-SP, if something happens to that then we can't do anything," he said.

"We will not cause the fall of government here (Madhya Pradesh). Congress leaders themselves have been responsible for the fall of their governments," the former chief minister Singh said.&nbsp;

Reacting to Chauhan's remarks, Nath asserted that none of his MLAs were for sale.

"None of the MLAs sitting here are for sale. Kamal Nath's government will run for five years in full force." "If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion," Nath told the BJP MLAs in the state Assembly. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs backed the Kamal Nath government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Leader of the Opposition in Assembly senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava on Thursday asked Congress not to rejoice over the development.

A day after two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs backed the Kamal Nath government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Leader of the Opposition in Assembly senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava on Thursday asked Congress not to rejoice over the development. "They should not boast. They should bring a trust vote to prove their majority," Bhargava added. On Wednesday, two BJP MLAs - Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul - voted in support of Criminal Law (Madhya Pradesh Amendment) Bill, 2019, when it was put to vote. "Today's voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Kamal Nath said on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Shivraj Singh Chauhan said that BJP should not be held responsible if Congress government in Madhya Pradesh faced the same fate as Karnataka government "There is an internal conflict in Congress, and support of BSP-SP, if something happens to that then we can't do anything," he said. "We will not cause the fall of government here (Madhya Pradesh). Congress leaders themselves have been responsible for the fall of their governments," the former chief minister Singh said. Reacting to Chauhan's remarks, Nath asserted that none of his MLAs were for sale. "None of the MLAs sitting here are for sale. Kamal Nath's government will run for five years in full force." "If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion," Nath told the BJP MLAs in the state Assembly. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP tells Congress 'not to rejoice' after two of its MLAs back Kamal Nath government

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday.

The BJP MLAs have now been taken to an undisclosed location and they will attend a dinner with Chief Minister Kamal Nath tonight.

The development comes on a day the Leader of the Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly and senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava claimed that once they receive direction from their party`s top command, the Congress government would not last 24 hours.

Attacking the BJP after the voting, Chief Minister Kamal Nath said, "Everyday BJP says we are a minority government which could fall any day. In today's voting (on criminal law amendment), two BJP MLAs voted in favour of our Government".

He asserted that Wednesday`s voting proved that the Congress government is a majority government.&nbsp;

"Today`s voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Nath said.

"Everyday they (BJP) used to say that they have 8-10 MLAs, Where were they today? We have the support of Bahujan Samaj Party, Samajwadi Party and the independent MLAs. Today, BJP`s false propaganda is exposed."CM added.

The MLAs also told the media that it was a sort of "homecoming" for them.

On Wednesday, Congress and BJP got into a scuffle in Madhya Pradesh Assembly after Bhargava claimed that if they receive direction by his party`s top brass, the government would not last even for 24 hours.

The Chief Minister responded by saying that if needed, the Opposition can move a no-confidence motion."Your number 1 and number 2 are intelligent, that`s why they are not giving an order. If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion (Aapke oopar wale number 1 aur 2 samajhdar hain, isliye aadesh nahi de rahe hain. Aap chahen to avishwas prastaav le aayen," Nath retorted.

The Madhya Pradesh political developments come against the backdrop of the defeat suffered by the Congress-JDS government during the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday.

After the trust vote, BJP leaders had claimed that the situation of Madhya Pradesh government was even worse than the recently ousted Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.&nbsp;

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday.

In a surprise development, two Bharatiya Janta Party MLAs, Narayan Tripathi and Sharad Kaul on Wednesday backed the Kamal Nath Government during voting on Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday. The BJP MLAs have now been taken to an undisclosed location and they will attend a dinner with Chief Minister Kamal Nath tonight. The development comes on a day the Leader of the Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly and senior BJP leader Gopal Bhargava claimed that once they receive direction from their party`s top command, the Congress government would not last 24 hours. Attacking the BJP after the voting, Chief Minister Kamal Nath said, "Everyday BJP says we are a minority government which could fall any day. In today's voting (on criminal law amendment), two BJP MLAs voted in favour of our Government". He asserted that Wednesday`s voting proved that the Congress government is a majority government. "Today`s voting was not just for the bill but it was to prove the majority of the government. Even two BJP MLAs have supported Congress today. I welcome their decision, they listened to their conscience today. The 122 votes polled in favour of the bill proves that the Congress government is a majority government," Nath said. "Everyday they (BJP) used to say that they have 8-10 MLAs, Where were they today? We have the support of Bahujan Samaj Party, Samajwadi Party and the independent MLAs. Today, BJP`s false propaganda is exposed."CM added. The MLAs also told the media that it was a sort of "homecoming" for them. On Wednesday, Congress and BJP got into a scuffle in Madhya Pradesh Assembly after Bhargava claimed that if they receive direction by his party`s top brass, the government would not last even for 24 hours. The Chief Minister responded by saying that if needed, the Opposition can move a no-confidence motion."Your number 1 and number 2 are intelligent, that`s why they are not giving an order. If you wish, you can move no-confidence motion (Aapke oopar wale number 1 aur 2 samajhdar hain, isliye aadesh nahi de rahe hain. Aap chahen to avishwas prastaav le aayen," Nath retorted. The Madhya Pradesh political developments come against the backdrop of the defeat suffered by the Congress-JDS government during the trust vote in Karnataka Assembly on Tuesday. After the trust vote, BJP leaders had claimed that the situation of Madhya Pradesh government was even worse than the recently ousted Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.

Madhya Pradesh: Two BJP MLAs vote in favour of Congress government on an official bill

The 14-month-old Congress-JDS government in Karnataka collapsed on Tuesday as CM HD Kumaraswamy lost the trust vote which was held after days of political drama. “It’s unfortunate,” said Kumaraswamy after the motion of confidence moved by him was defeated by 99 to 105 votes. There was no cross-voting by coalition MLAs. As BJP’s BS Yeddyurappa prepares to stake claim to form new government, the Governor is likely to ask Kumaraswamy to stay till the new dispensation is not in place.

Congress-JDS govt falls as Kumaraswamy loses trust vote

After clashes between BJP and Congress workers were reported in Bengaluru on Tuesday evening, the police declared the imposition of Section 144 across the city. Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) prevents the assembly of five or more people at one spot.

Section 144 Imposed in Bengaluru for Next 48 Hours After Clashes Between BJP-Congress Workers

Life and times of Sheila Dikshit, the woman who transformed Delhi into a sparkling metropolitan

Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise&nbsp;of veteran Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-delhi-chief-minister-congress-veteran-sheila-dikshit-passes-away-at-81-237286">Sheila&nbsp;Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday</a>.

The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devastated-to-hear-about-the-passing-away-of-sheila-dikshit-ji-rahul-gandhi-237292">Condolences to her family and supporters</a>. Om Shanti."

President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted, "Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind"

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family &amp; supporters. Om Shanti!"

Congress also paid homage to the&nbsp;veteran leader on Twitter.

The party's&nbsp;Twitter handle posted, "We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief."

Watch: Veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit dies at 81

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BJP MP and party's&nbsp;Delhi president, Manoj Tiwari who recently won the Delhi North-East Lok Sabha seat against Sheila Dikshit said, "I had met her recently, it is a big shock. I remember how she welcomed me like a mother. Delhi will miss her. May God give her family and her close&nbsp;ones the strength to bear this loss."

Former Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "This is the most terrible news to hear, rest in peace Ma’m, you were an inspiration for many women like me who joined politics to make an impactful change in the lives of millions. My heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends, her colleagues and to the people of Delhi."

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "I am sorry to know about the sudden demise of Sheila Dixit ji. We were opponents in politics but friends in personal life. She was a fine human being."

PDP leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Smt Sheila Dixit. She was one of the tallest leaders in Congress &amp; transformed Delhi in her tenure as CM. My deepest condolences to her family &amp; loved ones."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheila-dikshit-dissolves-all-280-block-congress-committees-in-delhi-231222">Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit</a>&nbsp;breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from the year 1998.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/jERrvJlQ4X">pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1152531814155767809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1152531190340997121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dikshit was the longest-serving chief minister of the national capital, securing three consecutive terms since 1998.&nbsp;

Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday and the last rites will take place on Sunday afternoon.

Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever).

"Her last rites will be performed at 2.30 pm at Nigam Bodh Ghat crematorium", Delhi Congress said.&nbsp;

Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise of veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise of veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti." President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted, "Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind" Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family & supporters. Om Shanti!" Congress also paid homage to the veteran leader on Twitter. The party's Twitter handle posted, "We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief." Watch: Veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit dies at 81 × BJP MP and party's Delhi president, Manoj Tiwari who recently won the Delhi North-East Lok Sabha seat against Sheila Dikshit said, "I had met her recently, it is a big shock. I remember how she welcomed me like a mother. Delhi will miss her. May God give her family and her close ones the strength to bear this loss." Former Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "This is the most terrible news to hear, rest in peace Ma’m, you were an inspiration for many women like me who joined politics to make an impactful change in the lives of millions. My heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends, her colleagues and to the people of Delhi." Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "I am sorry to know about the sudden demise of Sheila Dixit ji. We were opponents in politics but friends in personal life. She was a fine human being." PDP leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Smt Sheila Dixit. She was one of the tallest leaders in Congress & transformed Delhi in her tenure as CM. My deepest condolences to her family & loved ones." Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from the year 1998. Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 20, 2019 × Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 20, 2019 × Dikshit was the longest-serving chief minister of the national capital, securing three consecutive terms since 1998. Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday and the last rites will take place on Sunday afternoon. Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever). "Her last rites will be performed at 2.30 pm at Nigam Bodh Ghat crematorium", Delhi Congress said. Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well.

'She made noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development,' PM Modi remembers Sheila Dikshit; condolences pour in

Former Delhi Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit died at the age of 81 on Saturday. The veteran Congress leader was not keeping well for some time and died of cardiac arrest at the Fortis Escorts Hospital in Delhi. Watch this video to know more.

Delhi's longest serving CM Sheila Dikshit died of cardiac arrest at 81

Former Delhi Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit died at the age of 81 on Saturday. The veteran Congress leader was not keeping well from some time and died of a prolonged illness. Watch this video to know more.

Veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit dies at 81

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-meets-two-relatives-of-sonbhadra-violance-victims-237252">Sonbhadra politics</a> and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-priyanka-gandhi-spends-night-at-mirzapur-guest-house-says-will-not-leave-without-meeting-families-237228">Priyanka Gandhi</a>’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe.

In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party.

Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune.

Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent.&nbsp;

The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units.

Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh.

On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019.

Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport.

But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally.

It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. &nbsp;Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s.

It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress.

There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results.

The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for?

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort. But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for Priyanka Gandhi’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe. In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party. Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune. Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent. The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh. In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units. Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019. Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport. But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally. It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s. It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress. There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results. The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for? (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

A Belchi moment for Congress party? No; good job by Priyanka? Yes

Congress workers and leaders on July 20 staged a sit-in here against the detention of party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra when she was going to meet families of the Sonbhadra clash victims. Rajasthan Cabinet ministers BD Kalla, Raghu Sharma, Pratap Singh Khachariawas and other leaders of the party participated in the dharna. Priyanka Gandhi was detained and stopped from going to Sonbhadra in Uttar Pradesh on July 19.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra detained, State cites violation of sec 144

Congress is likely to decide the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Goa Assembly within the next two days, former state chief minister Digambar Kamat said on Sunday.

"Congress will decide the Leader of Opposition maybe within two days," he told ANI. The monsoon session of the Assembly will start tomorrow.

Kamat's remarks came after 10 Congress MLAs, including Chandrakant Kavlekar who was the LoP, had joined BJP on Thursday.

Kavlekar, along with two other Congress rebels -- Jennifer Monserrate and Filipe Nery Rodrigues, and BJP MLA Michael Lobo, were appointed ministers on Saturday. However, the portfolios of the new ministers have not been allocated.

Kavlekar was made the Deputy Chief Minister, replacing Goa Forward Party (GFP) president Vijai Sardesai, whose party withdrew support to the BJP government in the state.

Three GFP MLAs, including Sardesai, and an Independent were removed from the Pramod Sawant ministry.

With the 10 MLAs switching over, the strength of Congress in the 40-member House has reduced to a mere five.

Congress is likely to decide the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Goa Assembly within the next two days, former state chief minister Digambar Kamat said on Sunday.

Congress is likely to decide the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Goa Assembly within the next two days, former state chief minister Digambar Kamat said on Sunday. "Congress will decide the Leader of Opposition maybe within two days," he told ANI. The monsoon session of the Assembly will start tomorrow. Kamat's remarks came after 10 Congress MLAs, including Chandrakant Kavlekar who was the LoP, had joined BJP on Thursday. Kavlekar, along with two other Congress rebels -- Jennifer Monserrate and Filipe Nery Rodrigues, and BJP MLA Michael Lobo, were appointed ministers on Saturday. However, the portfolios of the new ministers have not been allocated. Kavlekar was made the Deputy Chief Minister, replacing Goa Forward Party (GFP) president Vijai Sardesai, whose party withdrew support to the BJP government in the state. Three GFP MLAs, including Sardesai, and an Independent were removed from the Pramod Sawant ministry. With the 10 MLAs switching over, the strength of Congress in the 40-member House has reduced to a mere five.

Congress likely to decide LoP in Goa Assembly in next two days: Digambar Kamat

The Congress on Saturday made organisational changes in its Maharashtra unit in view of upcoming assembly polls and appointed senior state leader Balasaheb Thorat as the state party chief.

The party also appointed five working presidents - Nitin Raut, Baswaraj M Patil, Vishwajeet Kadam, Yashomati Chandrakant Thakur and Muzaffer Hussain.

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Senior Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat appointed new president of the Maharashtra unit of Congress party, replacing Ashok Chavan <a href="https://t.co/5AQsqE0hGE">pic.twitter.com/5AQsqE0hGE</a>
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KC Padavi has been appointed the leader of the legislative party.

The party releases said that the appointments were made "with approval of Congress president" and did not mention the name of Rahul Gandhi.

Gandhi has resigned owning responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. The Congress Working Committee, the party's highest making body, at its meeting in May had rejected his offer to step down.

The Congress on Saturday made organisational changes in its Maharashtra unit in view of upcoming assembly polls and appointed senior state leader Balasaheb Thorat as the state party chief.

The Congress on Saturday made organisational changes in its Maharashtra unit in view of upcoming assembly polls and appointed senior state leader Balasaheb Thorat as the state party chief. The party also appointed five working presidents - Nitin Raut, Baswaraj M Patil, Vishwajeet Kadam, Yashomati Chandrakant Thakur and Muzaffer Hussain. Senior Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat appointed new president of the Maharashtra unit of Congress party, replacing Ashok Chavan pic.twitter.com/5AQsqE0hGE — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2019 × KC Padavi has been appointed the leader of the legislative party. The party releases said that the appointments were made "with approval of Congress president" and did not mention the name of Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi has resigned owning responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. The Congress Working Committee, the party's highest making body, at its meeting in May had rejected his offer to step down.

Balasaheb Thorat appointed as Maharashtra Congress chief

Five more Karnataka Congress MLAs moved the Supreme Court on Saturday, contending they had resigned "voluntarily" and that their resignation must be accepted by the Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.

The petition, filed by Anand Singh, K Sudhakar, N Nagaraju, Munirathna and Roshan Baig of the Congress party, has sought a direction to the Speaker to not proceed with the application for their disqualification.

The legislators also claimed that there was no disqualification proceeding against them when they resigned.

"The disqualification proceedings are being used to threaten and intimidate the MLAs. On one hand, the Speaker is not acting upon the resignation and on the other, a whip has been issued threatening disqualification for failure to attend the legislature proceeding starting July 12," the petition stated.

The rebel MLAs said that when some of the applicants submitted their resignation on July 10, they were manhandled in the Assembly and were confined.

"They were rescued by the police personnel from the Legislative Assembly," the plea said.

The plea also submitted that their resignations were in "accordance with Rule 202 of the Rules of Procedure and the Conduct of Business of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly."

On Friday, the Supreme Court took up the petitions of 10 dissident MLAs and directed the Speaker to maintain the status quo on their resignation and disqualification till July 16.

The 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on July 6.

It is worth mentioning that R Shankar and H Nagesh, who have taken back their support to the ruling party, have requested the Speaker to make separate sitting arrangement for them in the Assembly.

Five more Karnataka Congress MLAs moved the Supreme Court on Saturday, contending they had resigned "voluntarily" and that their resignation must be accepted by the Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.

Five more Karnataka Congress MLAs moved the Supreme Court on Saturday, contending they had resigned "voluntarily" and that their resignation must be accepted by the Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar. The petition, filed by Anand Singh, K Sudhakar, N Nagaraju, Munirathna and Roshan Baig of the Congress party, has sought a direction to the Speaker to not proceed with the application for their disqualification. The legislators also claimed that there was no disqualification proceeding against them when they resigned. "The disqualification proceedings are being used to threaten and intimidate the MLAs. On one hand, the Speaker is not acting upon the resignation and on the other, a whip has been issued threatening disqualification for failure to attend the legislature proceeding starting July 12," the petition stated. The rebel MLAs said that when some of the applicants submitted their resignation on July 10, they were manhandled in the Assembly and were confined. "They were rescued by the police personnel from the Legislative Assembly," the plea said. The plea also submitted that their resignations were in "accordance with Rule 202 of the Rules of Procedure and the Conduct of Business of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly." On Friday, the Supreme Court took up the petitions of 10 dissident MLAs and directed the Speaker to maintain the status quo on their resignation and disqualification till July 16. The 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) government slumped into crisis following the resignation of 10 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on July 6. It is worth mentioning that R Shankar and H Nagesh, who have taken back their support to the ruling party, have requested the Speaker to make separate sitting arrangement for them in the Assembly.

Five more Karnataka Congress MLAs move Supreme Court

&nbsp;

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday sought the resignation of four of his ministers as he wants to induct four new faces into the cabinet to accommodate the Congress defectors.

The ministers, whose resignations have been sought included three of Goa Forward Party and an independent, have not complied with the demand immediately.

"I have asked Goa forward party Minister Vijay Sardesai, Jayesh Salgaonkar and Vinod Palekar and one independent legislator to step down from their positions. I am inducting four new ministers in the cabinet, Sawant told ANI over phone.

This political development comes a day after the merger of 10 Goa Congress MLAs into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Responding to Sawant's demand, Goa Forward ministers took to the Twitter and wrote: "We are a part of the NDA and had joined the BJP-led state government after talks with the national leadership of the BJP. The present state BJP leaders were not part of the discussions then."

"As such we will take appropriate steps only after talking with NDA leadership at Centre. We have not yet received any official communication from BJP central leaders. On the contrary, we have received indications that the matter will be sorted out amicably," another tweet read.

On the night of July 10, Goa CM Sawant had arrived in Delhi along with 10 MLAs to meet senior party leaders including working President JP Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss strategy and further political developments.

Following this, the rebel MLAs joined the party in Delhi in presence of Working President J P Nadda and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ahead of speculated induction of some of them in the state Cabinet next day.

With 10 MLAs changing the sides, the strength of Congress on the floor of the House has reduced to mere five.

These MLAs include -- Kavlekar, Isidore Fernandes, Francis Silveira, Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Jennifer, Atanasio Monserrate, Antonio Fernandes, Nilakanth Halarnkar, Clafacio Dias and Wilfred D'Sa.

&nbsp;

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday sought the resignation of four of his ministers as he wants to induct four new faces into the cabinet to accommodate the Congress defectors.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday sought the resignation of four of his ministers as he wants to induct four new faces into the cabinet to accommodate the Congress defectors. The ministers, whose resignations have been sought included three of Goa Forward Party and an independent, have not complied with the demand immediately. "I have asked Goa forward party Minister Vijay Sardesai, Jayesh Salgaonkar and Vinod Palekar and one independent legislator to step down from their positions. I am inducting four new ministers in the cabinet, Sawant told ANI over phone. This political development comes a day after the merger of 10 Goa Congress MLAs into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Responding to Sawant's demand, Goa Forward ministers took to the Twitter and wrote: "We are a part of the NDA and had joined the BJP-led state government after talks with the national leadership of the BJP. The present state BJP leaders were not part of the discussions then." "As such we will take appropriate steps only after talking with NDA leadership at Centre. We have not yet received any official communication from BJP central leaders. On the contrary, we have received indications that the matter will be sorted out amicably," another tweet read. On the night of July 10, Goa CM Sawant had arrived in Delhi along with 10 MLAs to meet senior party leaders including working President JP Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss strategy and further political developments. Following this, the rebel MLAs joined the party in Delhi in presence of Working President J P Nadda and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ahead of speculated induction of some of them in the state Cabinet next day. With 10 MLAs changing the sides, the strength of Congress on the floor of the House has reduced to mere five. These MLAs include -- Kavlekar, Isidore Fernandes, Francis Silveira, Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Jennifer, Atanasio Monserrate, Antonio Fernandes, Nilakanth Halarnkar, Clafacio Dias and Wilfred D'Sa.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant seeks resignations of four ministers

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi.

Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong.

"Never demanded front row seat for Rahul. He has been allotted a seat in the second row and he will be sitting there. I can say it with conviction (mai ye bat dawe se keh sakta hun)," he said.

The denial by the Congress party came after wide speculations in media about the party demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi, who is a fourth term MP in Lok Sabha.

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi. Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong.

The Congress on Tuesday rejected reports, that they have demanded a seat in the front row of the Lok Sabha for their party chief Rahul Gandhi. Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adheer Ranjan Chowdhury termed the "speculations" as wrong. "Never demanded front row seat for Rahul. He has been allotted a seat in the second row and he will be sitting there. I can say it with conviction (mai ye bat dawe se keh sakta hun)," he said. The denial by the Congress party came after wide speculations in media about the party demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi, who is a fourth term MP in Lok Sabha.

Congress denies reports of demanding front row seat for Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical".

While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress'&nbsp;as a trustee of the Trust.

"The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long.

The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December.

It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust.

The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House".

In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party.

Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical.

The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel. The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical". While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress' as a trustee of the Trust. "The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said. Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long. The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December. It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust. The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House". In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party. Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical. The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

Jallianwala Bagh Amendment Bill introduced in Lok Sabha, Congress opposes

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday.

The Congress leaders are believed to have discussed among other things further action against the party MLAs, who have resigned.

The Congress party has called the CLP meeting on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, both Congress and JD(S) made their ministers resign from the Council of Ministers to "accommodate" the rebel MLAs, who are said to be unhappy.

BJP has, meanwhile, demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy for losing the confidence of the House.

The party's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa claimed that the government has lost the majority and hence has no moral right to continue.

Two independent MLAs -- H Nagesh and R Shankar, who were a part of the government, quit the Council of Ministers. Nagesh has also announced support to the BJP if it forms the government.

The Congress and JD(S) leader have held a series of meetings since Saturday to address the crisis.&nbsp;

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday.

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday. The Congress leaders are believed to have discussed among other things further action against the party MLAs, who have resigned. The Congress party has called the CLP meeting on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, both Congress and JD(S) made their ministers resign from the Council of Ministers to "accommodate" the rebel MLAs, who are said to be unhappy. BJP has, meanwhile, demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy for losing the confidence of the House. The party's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa claimed that the government has lost the majority and hence has no moral right to continue. Two independent MLAs -- H Nagesh and R Shankar, who were a part of the government, quit the Council of Ministers. Nagesh has also announced support to the BJP if it forms the government. The Congress and JD(S) leader have held a series of meetings since Saturday to address the crisis.

Karnataka crisis: Senior Congress leaders hold meeting with legal advisers, discuss further action against rebels

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

"I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday.

"In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement.

"The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement.

Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts.

"I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said.

"The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said.

He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire.

Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said,&nbsp;"That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate."

Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated.

"It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition."

"If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said.

Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said,&nbsp;"Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party. "I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday. "In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement. "The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement. Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts. "I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said. "The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said. He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire. Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said, "That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate." Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated. "It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition." "If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said. Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said, "Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Appoint interim Congress president until next party elections: Karan Singh

The Congress party has called an important meeting here on Monday, which is likely to discuss the political crisis in Karnataka.

This is the first crucial meeting of the Congress party after Rahul Gandhi announced to resign from the top position. However, the CWC has not yet accepted Rahul`s resignation.

The JDS-Congress coalition government in Karnataka has plunged into a serious crisis after several MLAs of the ruling combine announced to resign from the Assembly's membership.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has, however, expressed confidence that his government would survive the current bout of crisis as well.

On Monday, all Congress and JDS ministers submitted their resignations to enable the Chief Minister to restructure his Council of Ministers, which he is likely to do in consultation with his party leaders and that of the Congress and will accommodate disgruntled MLAs.

"Everything is OK. Wait for some time and you will get good news," had said Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) working president Eshwar Khandre while talking to reporters after a meeting with the party leaders in Bengaluru on Sunday.

On Saturday, 11 MLAs from the Congress-JDS coalition submitted their resignation to the Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and Governor Vajubhai Bala. Later in the evening, 10 of the MLAs left for Mumbai.

The MLAs who resigned from the Assembly include BC Patil, H Vishwanath, Narayan Gowda, S Hebbar, Mahesh Kumatalli, Gopalayya, Ramesh Jharkiholi, and Pratap Gowda Patil. A rebel JDS MLA claimed that a total of 14 MLAs of the coalition have put down their papers.

The Congress party on Sunday also said that strict action would be taken against MLAs, who miss the Legislature Party meeting called on July 9 in Bengaluru.

According to the party circular on Sunday, all Congress MLAs have been asked to attend the meeting, which will start at 9.30 am.

The circular states that strict action would be taken against those who skip the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, which will discuss among other things the crisis over the coalition government.

The CLP meeting has been called by former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Congress leader KC Venugopal and Dinesh Gundu Rao will also be present in the meeting.

The July 9 meeting precedes the Assembly Session, which is scheduled to commence on July 12.&nbsp;

The Congress party has called an important meeting here on Monday, which is likely to discuss the political crisis in Karnataka. This is the first crucial meeting of the Congress party after Rahul Gandhi announced to resign from the top position.

The Congress party has called an important meeting here on Monday, which is likely to discuss the political crisis in Karnataka. This is the first crucial meeting of the Congress party after Rahul Gandhi announced to resign from the top position. However, the CWC has not yet accepted Rahul`s resignation. The JDS-Congress coalition government in Karnataka has plunged into a serious crisis after several MLAs of the ruling combine announced to resign from the Assembly's membership. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has, however, expressed confidence that his government would survive the current bout of crisis as well. On Monday, all Congress and JDS ministers submitted their resignations to enable the Chief Minister to restructure his Council of Ministers, which he is likely to do in consultation with his party leaders and that of the Congress and will accommodate disgruntled MLAs. "Everything is OK. Wait for some time and you will get good news," had said Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) working president Eshwar Khandre while talking to reporters after a meeting with the party leaders in Bengaluru on Sunday. On Saturday, 11 MLAs from the Congress-JDS coalition submitted their resignation to the Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and Governor Vajubhai Bala. Later in the evening, 10 of the MLAs left for Mumbai. The MLAs who resigned from the Assembly include BC Patil, H Vishwanath, Narayan Gowda, S Hebbar, Mahesh Kumatalli, Gopalayya, Ramesh Jharkiholi, and Pratap Gowda Patil. A rebel JDS MLA claimed that a total of 14 MLAs of the coalition have put down their papers. The Congress party on Sunday also said that strict action would be taken against MLAs, who miss the Legislature Party meeting called on July 9 in Bengaluru. According to the party circular on Sunday, all Congress MLAs have been asked to attend the meeting, which will start at 9.30 am. The circular states that strict action would be taken against those who skip the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, which will discuss among other things the crisis over the coalition government. The CLP meeting has been called by former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Congress leader KC Venugopal and Dinesh Gundu Rao will also be present in the meeting. The July 9 meeting precedes the Assembly Session, which is scheduled to commence on July 12.

Congress' crucial meeting in New Delhi today

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay.&nbsp;

"Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," news agency ANI quoted him. 
 
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Rahul Gandhi: Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide. <a href="https://t.co/pvImuPq2rj">pic.twitter.com/pvImuPq2rj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1146340387373666304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to say that it was his honour to serve as the Congress President and shared the resignation letter.

“I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love,” he wrote on Twitter.

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It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. 
 
I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. 
 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/WWGYt5YG4V">pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1146359704815194112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier today, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot met UPA chief Sonia Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi.

The development comes two days after chief ministers of five Congress-ruled states urged Rahul Gandhi not to leave the post of the party president.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remains unfazed. 
 
On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. 
 
However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay. "Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process.

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that his party should elect a new Congress president without any further delay. "Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide," news agency ANI quoted him. Rahul Gandhi: Party should decide on the new president quickly without further delay, I'm nowhere in this process. I have already submitted my resignation and I am no longer the party president. CWC should convene a meeting at the earliest and decide. pic.twitter.com/pvImuPq2rj — ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2019 × Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to say that it was his honour to serve as the Congress President and shared the resignation letter. “I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love,” he wrote on Twitter. It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 3, 2019 × Earlier today, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot met UPA chief Sonia Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi. The development comes two days after chief ministers of five Congress-ruled states urged Rahul Gandhi not to leave the post of the party president. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remains unfazed. On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

Party should decide on the new Congress president quickly, says Rahul Gandhi

Amidst the ongoing political turmoil that seems to have brought the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state in minority, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy arrived in Bengaluru on Sunday evening.

The Chief Minister who was in the USA arrived here in a special chartered flight.

He will soon hold a high-level meeting with JDS MLAs and Congress party leaders. The meeting will discuss among other things the current crisis the coalition government is facing.

On Saturday, 11 Congress-JD(S) MLAs had resigned plunging the state government in crisis. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel.

A rebel JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath had, however, claimed that 14 MLAs have resigned.

While the leaders from Congress have blamed the BJP for the crisis, BJP on its part has denied any role in it.&nbsp;

Amidst the ongoing political turmoil that seems to have brought the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state in minority, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy arrived in Bengaluru on Sunday evening.

Amidst the ongoing political turmoil that seems to have brought the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state in minority, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy arrived in Bengaluru on Sunday evening. The Chief Minister who was in the USA arrived here in a special chartered flight. He will soon hold a high-level meeting with JDS MLAs and Congress party leaders. The meeting will discuss among other things the current crisis the coalition government is facing. On Saturday, 11 Congress-JD(S) MLAs had resigned plunging the state government in crisis. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel. A rebel JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath had, however, claimed that 14 MLAs have resigned. While the leaders from Congress have blamed the BJP for the crisis, BJP on its part has denied any role in it.

Karnataka crisis: Kumaraswamy reaches Bengaluru; will hold meet with JD(S), Congress leaders

Will Congress lose it sole in southern India. Federal front talks set to fizzle out. Will Congress go solo in upcoming polls? Watch this video to know more.

Big Setback To Congress After Lok Sabha Polls

The Congress party, which is struggling hard to save the coalition government in the state, on Sunday said that strict action will be taken against MLAs, who miss the Legislature Party meeting on July 9.

According to the party circular on Sunday, all Congress MLAs have been asked to attend the meeting, which will start at 9.30 am.

The circular states that strict action would be taken against those who skip the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, which will discuss among other things the crisis over the coalition government.

The CLP meeting has been called by former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Congress leader KC Venugopal and Dinesh Gundu Rao will also be present in the meeting.

The July 9 meeting precedes the Assembly Session, which is scheduled to commence on July 12.

The coalition government in the state is faced with a serious crisis after the resignation of 11 Congress MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on Saturday.

However, JDS MLA H Vishwanath has claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them. The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted their resignation.

The Congress party, which is struggling hard to save the coalition government in the state, on Sunday said that strict action will be taken against MLAs, who miss the Legislature Party meeting on July 9.

The Congress party, which is struggling hard to save the coalition government in the state, on Sunday said that strict action will be taken against MLAs, who miss the Legislature Party meeting on July 9. According to the party circular on Sunday, all Congress MLAs have been asked to attend the meeting, which will start at 9.30 am. The circular states that strict action would be taken against those who skip the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, which will discuss among other things the crisis over the coalition government. The CLP meeting has been called by former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Congress leader KC Venugopal and Dinesh Gundu Rao will also be present in the meeting. The July 9 meeting precedes the Assembly Session, which is scheduled to commence on July 12. The coalition government in the state is faced with a serious crisis after the resignation of 11 Congress MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly on Saturday. However, JDS MLA H Vishwanath has claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them. The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted their resignation.

Karnataka: Strict action against MLAs who miss Legislature Party meeting on July 9, says Congress

Congress leader and former Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday announced to resign from the post of party general secretary.

"Accepting the people's verdict and taking accountability, I had submitted my resignation as General Secretary of AICC to Shri @RahulGandhi. I thank him for entrusting me with this responsibility and for giving me the opportunity to serve our party," Scindia tweeted from his official Twitter account.

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Accepting the people’s verdict and taking accountability, I had submitted my resignation as General Secretary of AICC to Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a>. 
 
I thank him for entrusting me with this responsibility and for giving me the opportunity to serve our party.
— Jyotiraditya Scindia (@JM_Scindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/JM_Scindia/status/1147821537128407040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Scindia had been appointed Congress' general secretary for West Uttar Pradesh along Priyanka Gandhi Vadra who had been appointed a general secretary for East UP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Scindia's resignation comes at a time when the party leaders from several states are offering their resignation or have resigned as an expression of solidarity with Rahul Gandhi, who recently quit as the party president.

Earlier in the day, former Member of Parliament (MP) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-congress-president-milind-deora-resigns-says-looking-forward-to-play-national-role-to-help-stabilise-party-233767">Milind Deora also announced to step down</a> from the post of Mumbai unit Congress president.

Deora has also proposed a three-member panel to lead the local unit of the party in view of the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections to be held later this year.

It is being said that the Congress leader may move to Delhi for a national role in the party.

"The same has been conveyed to Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal, General Secretaries, All India Congress Committee," a statement from Deora's office said.

Deora had a meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on June 26.

His resignation comes at a time when the party leaders from several states are offering their resignation as an expression of solidarity with Rahul Gandhi, who recently quit as the party president.

Deora had been appointed the president of Congress' Mumbai unit on the eve of the Lok Sabha elections.

Deora unsuccessfully ran for the Lok Sabha polls from South Mumbai constituency.

Congress leader and former Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday announced to resign from the post of party general secretary. "Accepting the people's verdict and taking accountability, I had submitted my resignation as General Secretary of AICC to Shri @RahulGandhi.

Congress leader and former Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday announced to resign from the post of party general secretary. "Accepting the people's verdict and taking accountability, I had submitted my resignation as General Secretary of AICC to Shri @RahulGandhi. I thank him for entrusting me with this responsibility and for giving me the opportunity to serve our party," Scindia tweeted from his official Twitter account. Accepting the people’s verdict and taking accountability, I had submitted my resignation as General Secretary of AICC to Shri @RahulGandhi. I thank him for entrusting me with this responsibility and for giving me the opportunity to serve our party. — Jyotiraditya Scindia (@JM_Scindia) July 7, 2019 × Scindia had been appointed Congress' general secretary for West Uttar Pradesh along Priyanka Gandhi Vadra who had been appointed a general secretary for East UP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Scindia's resignation comes at a time when the party leaders from several states are offering their resignation or have resigned as an expression of solidarity with Rahul Gandhi, who recently quit as the party president. Earlier in the day, former Member of Parliament (MP) Milind Deora also announced to step down from the post of Mumbai unit Congress president. Deora has also proposed a three-member panel to lead the local unit of the party in view of the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections to be held later this year. It is being said that the Congress leader may move to Delhi for a national role in the party. "The same has been conveyed to Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal, General Secretaries, All India Congress Committee," a statement from Deora's office said. Deora had a meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on June 26. His resignation comes at a time when the party leaders from several states are offering their resignation as an expression of solidarity with Rahul Gandhi, who recently quit as the party president. Deora had been appointed the president of Congress' Mumbai unit on the eve of the Lok Sabha elections. Deora unsuccessfully ran for the Lok Sabha polls from South Mumbai constituency.

Jyotiraditya Scindia resigns as Congress general secretary

Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora tendered his resignation from the post on Sunday. He also said that he is looking forward to playing a role at the "national level to stabilise the party".

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Mumbai Congress President Milind Deora tenders his resignation from his post. He has also proposed a three member panel to lead Mumbai Congress for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/aPmfaF1LCt">pic.twitter.com/aPmfaF1LCt</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1147799313881473024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Deora also proposed a three-member panel to lead Mumbai Congress for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections which are due later this year.

According to a report, Milind Deora decided to resign after meeting Rahul Gandhi, who also resigned from the post of Congress president last week.

"I had accepted MRCC (Mumbai Regional Congress Committee Chief) presidentship in the interest of uniting the party. I felt I should also resign after meeting Rahul Gandhi," he said.

"I have suggested a three-member panel (to oversee the city party unit) and am being consulted by leaders to identify names. I look forward to play&nbsp;a national role to help stabilise the party. Needless to say, I will continue to guide and unite the Mumbai Congress," Deora said.

On March 25, Milind Deora was appointed as president of the Mumbai Congress succeeding Sanjay Nirupam.

Son of former oil minister Murli Deora, Milind Deora contested the Lok Sabha poll from Mumbai-South constituency but lost to Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora tendered his resignation from the post on Sunday. He also said that he is looking forward to playing a role at the "national level to stabilise the party".

Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora tendered his resignation from the post on Sunday. He also said that he is looking forward to playing a role at the "national level to stabilise the party". Mumbai Congress President Milind Deora tenders his resignation from his post. He has also proposed a three member panel to lead Mumbai Congress for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/aPmfaF1LCt — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2019 × Deora also proposed a three-member panel to lead Mumbai Congress for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections which are due later this year. According to a report, Milind Deora decided to resign after meeting Rahul Gandhi, who also resigned from the post of Congress president last week. "I had accepted MRCC (Mumbai Regional Congress Committee Chief) presidentship in the interest of uniting the party. I felt I should also resign after meeting Rahul Gandhi," he said. "I have suggested a three-member panel (to oversee the city party unit) and am being consulted by leaders to identify names. I look forward to play a national role to help stabilise the party. Needless to say, I will continue to guide and unite the Mumbai Congress," Deora said. On March 25, Milind Deora was appointed as president of the Mumbai Congress succeeding Sanjay Nirupam. Son of former oil minister Murli Deora, Milind Deora contested the Lok Sabha poll from Mumbai-South constituency but lost to Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant. (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora resigns; says looking forward to play national role to help stabilise party

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. 
 
The case will be next heard on August 30. Swamy, who was to be cross-examined by the lawyer of Congress leaders, sought adjournment as the BJP has issued whip in the Rajya Sabha for the Budget session till the Parliament is in session. 
 
On April 27, the court deferred the hearing in the National Herald case to July 5 after Swamy and counsel for Congress president Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other accused sought an adjournment. Sonia and Rahul Gandhi`s lawyer RS Cheema had put 18 questions to Swamy on February 4 in the partly held cross-examination in the court of the ACMM. 
 
The ACMM`s court was recently shifted from Patiala House to the newly constructed Rouse Avenue court complex. Swamy had filed the case in 2012 accusing the two Gandhis and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds. 
 
He had stated that the Congress party granted an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), owner of the National Herald newspaper. 
 
&nbsp;

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. The case will be next heard on August 30.

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. The case will be next heard on August 30. Swamy, who was to be cross-examined by the lawyer of Congress leaders, sought adjournment as the BJP has issued whip in the Rajya Sabha for the Budget session till the Parliament is in session. On April 27, the court deferred the hearing in the National Herald case to July 5 after Swamy and counsel for Congress president Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other accused sought an adjournment. Sonia and Rahul Gandhi`s lawyer RS Cheema had put 18 questions to Swamy on February 4 in the partly held cross-examination in the court of the ACMM. The ACMM`s court was recently shifted from Patiala House to the newly constructed Rouse Avenue court complex. Swamy had filed the case in 2012 accusing the two Gandhis and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds. He had stated that the Congress party granted an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), owner of the National Herald newspaper.

National Herald case: Subramanian Swamy seeks adjournment, next hearing on August 30

As soon as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-me-to-serve-congress-party-rahul-gandhi-tweets-his-resignation-letter-232732">Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation</a> as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision.

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.''

The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.''

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Few have the courage that you do <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a>. Deepest respect for your decision. <a href="https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P">https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1146619515339444224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

Chief Minister of Rajasthan&nbsp;Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh.&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.''

''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added.

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He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 
3/
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1146479764779094016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. &nbsp;Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded.

Mumbai Congress president&nbsp;Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-rahul-gandhi-tweets-resignation-232874/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat."

Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said.

Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle.

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.'' The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.'' Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision. https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 4, 2019 × Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh. Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.'' ''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added. He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 3/ — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 3, 2019 × BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded. Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.'' Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat." Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. ''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said. Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Congress leaders disappointed over Rahul Gandhi's resignation, urge to rethink his decision

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in&nbsp;Congress has&nbsp;brought a sidelined player to the centre stage. 
 
Ahmed Patel served as political secretary to Sonia Gandhi and virtually ran the party for 15 years. 80 per cent of the appointments within the Congress during his heydays were influenced by him. Despite the power he enjoyed, Patel was the most self-effacing and media-shy politician.

He hated his name on papers. He avoided TV to his best but still knew every reporter and editor by name. He continues with this habit but now and then indulges himself with an occasional television byte.

He was systematically sidelined by new Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The new president wanted his team in place and he got one slowly which had more outsiders than ever.

In fact, Rahul&nbsp;sidelined most of the Congress leaders who were associated with Ahmed Patel. Few close to him survived. They survived because they were powerful leaders in their respective states. The best example is Ashok Gehlot. Despite the onslaught and systematic neglect, Ahmed Patel held on to the party. He did not walk away.

He fought Rajya Sabha elections alone without any party support. It is not without significance that it took Rahul Gandhi more than 4 hours to congratulate him. He survived because he had obliged many in the 10 years Congress was in power. He did not make many enemies barring Amit Shah which was unavoidable.&nbsp;

Such was his resilience that he would often snub journalists for writing on all the work he did quietly for Gandhis. Though, he could not save his friend Janardan Dwivedi. It is said that he could not take a stand when Rahul Gandhi was altering the party in his image.

Things changed. Today, there is no leader except him in the Congress who can build a network quietly. He is the only one with whom his contemporaries and chief ministers are willing to talk. He is the glue today which can connect with each and every person in Congress. He may not be able to influence decisions unilaterally the way he did&nbsp;in the past, but he can still bring everyone on the table. The old man is back in the game again.

He still manages to get time to meet Sonia Gandhi. Though there was a time that even Sonia Gandhi was seeing less of him. Now, the party needs him more than ever.

Sonia and Rahul&nbsp;have taken a step back and Priyanka&nbsp;is confined to Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka will have to prove herself to become a contender at the national level. Rahul Gandhi is not a contender today and Sonia Gandhi, much respected will never occupy the centre stage again. In this case, it is Ahmed Patel who has been left with the baby crying. It is him, who is meeting people to create a consensus in the party in the absence of Rahul Gandhi moving away. If one has to understand as to what is happening in Congress, one may need to work their phone lines with Ahmad Patel again.

It is also true that the office of Rahul Gandhi is counting people&nbsp;who demonstrated their loyalty in time of Rahul’s utmost humiliation at hustings. Perhaps, Rahul Gandhi wanted others to resign in large numbers. It did not happen. One reason was&nbsp;that the show of support in Delhi was a big flop. The irony is that it ultimately took Ahmed Patel to create a face-saving exit for 150 loyalists who were sitting in to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi so that he withdraws his resignation.

Ahmed Patel can never be the king. In past, he was the kingmaker. He can play this role for a few more years. The choice is wide open for the party. It can either go for a loyalist and subsequently&nbsp;reignite its love affair with a younger Gandhi or chart a new journey with a new non-dynastic leader who can remake the Congress party. The game is on. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in Congress has brought a sidelined player to the centre stage.

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in Congress has brought a sidelined player to the centre stage. Ahmed Patel served as political secretary to Sonia Gandhi and virtually ran the party for 15 years. 80 per cent of the appointments within the Congress during his heydays were influenced by him. Despite the power he enjoyed, Patel was the most self-effacing and media-shy politician. He hated his name on papers. He avoided TV to his best but still knew every reporter and editor by name. He continues with this habit but now and then indulges himself with an occasional television byte. He was systematically sidelined by new Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The new president wanted his team in place and he got one slowly which had more outsiders than ever. In fact, Rahul sidelined most of the Congress leaders who were associated with Ahmed Patel. Few close to him survived. They survived because they were powerful leaders in their respective states. The best example is Ashok Gehlot. Despite the onslaught and systematic neglect, Ahmed Patel held on to the party. He did not walk away. He fought Rajya Sabha elections alone without any party support. It is not without significance that it took Rahul Gandhi more than 4 hours to congratulate him. He survived because he had obliged many in the 10 years Congress was in power. He did not make many enemies barring Amit Shah which was unavoidable. Such was his resilience that he would often snub journalists for writing on all the work he did quietly for Gandhis. Though, he could not save his friend Janardan Dwivedi. It is said that he could not take a stand when Rahul Gandhi was altering the party in his image. Things changed. Today, there is no leader except him in the Congress who can build a network quietly. He is the only one with whom his contemporaries and chief ministers are willing to talk. He is the glue today which can connect with each and every person in Congress. He may not be able to influence decisions unilaterally the way he did in the past, but he can still bring everyone on the table. The old man is back in the game again. He still manages to get time to meet Sonia Gandhi. Though there was a time that even Sonia Gandhi was seeing less of him. Now, the party needs him more than ever. Sonia and Rahul have taken a step back and Priyanka is confined to Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka will have to prove herself to become a contender at the national level. Rahul Gandhi is not a contender today and Sonia Gandhi, much respected will never occupy the centre stage again. In this case, it is Ahmed Patel who has been left with the baby crying. It is him, who is meeting people to create a consensus in the party in the absence of Rahul Gandhi moving away. If one has to understand as to what is happening in Congress, one may need to work their phone lines with Ahmad Patel again. It is also true that the office of Rahul Gandhi is counting people who demonstrated their loyalty in time of Rahul’s utmost humiliation at hustings. Perhaps, Rahul Gandhi wanted others to resign in large numbers. It did not happen. One reason was that the show of support in Delhi was a big flop. The irony is that it ultimately took Ahmed Patel to create a face-saving exit for 150 loyalists who were sitting in to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi so that he withdraws his resignation. Ahmed Patel can never be the king. In past, he was the kingmaker. He can play this role for a few more years. The choice is wide open for the party. It can either go for a loyalist and subsequently reignite its love affair with a younger Gandhi or chart a new journey with a new non-dynastic leader who can remake the Congress party. The game is on. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The return of Ahmed Patel

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president.&nbsp;

The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp; 
 
"Madhu Bangarappa will be the working president of JDS. We have decided to have only one working president, there is no question of multiple working presidents," said JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda.

The state committee also elected Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy to lead its youth wing in the state.&nbsp;

"Last week I said questions might arise that your family dynasty continues, but this came as a shock for me. I was really surprised when HD Deve Gowda Ji took this call. I am looking forward to work for the party," said Nikhil Kumaraswamy while speaking to media.

Last month, Gowda had hinted on a possible rift between the Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka.

Deve Gowda said, "The leaders of the party (Congress) are worried that they will perish if they continue to go forward with us. They are observing extreme caution in maintaining the coalition government. To ensure this they have even taken a cabinet berth that was allotted to the JD(S). We are just enduring everything and moving forward."

The dissidence within the coalition has been making news since Kumaraswamy took oath a year ago, the severe drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections have further embarrassed the two partners. Of the 28 seats, Congress and JD(S) managed to win just one seat each and BJP won the lion's share of 25 seats.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president. The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections.

Janata Dal (Secular) on Thursday named H K Kumaraswamy as the new party president for Karnataka and Madhu Bangarappa as the working president. The post for party president became vacant after A H Vishwanath had resigned taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. "Madhu Bangarappa will be the working president of JDS. We have decided to have only one working president, there is no question of multiple working presidents," said JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda. The state committee also elected Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy to lead its youth wing in the state. "Last week I said questions might arise that your family dynasty continues, but this came as a shock for me. I was really surprised when HD Deve Gowda Ji took this call. I am looking forward to work for the party," said Nikhil Kumaraswamy while speaking to media. Last month, Gowda had hinted on a possible rift between the Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka. Deve Gowda said, "The leaders of the party (Congress) are worried that they will perish if they continue to go forward with us. They are observing extreme caution in maintaining the coalition government. To ensure this they have even taken a cabinet berth that was allotted to the JD(S). We are just enduring everything and moving forward." The dissidence within the coalition has been making news since Kumaraswamy took oath a year ago, the severe drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections have further embarrassed the two partners. Of the 28 seats, Congress and JD(S) managed to win just one seat each and BJP won the lion's share of 25 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

H K Kumaraswamy named Janata Dal (Secular) state chief; Nikhil Kumaraswamy youth wing president

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 &nbsp;Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.

The development comes a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-me-to-serve-congress-party-rahul-gandhi-tweets-his-resignation-letter-232732">Rahul Gandhi had tweeted his resignation</a> letter, asking Congress to appoint a new party chief without any further delay.

Earlier this month, Rawat had said that under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi Congress can go from defeat to victory. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister had said.

"We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister said.

Rahul Gandhi had first offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed.&nbsp;

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI. The development comes a day after Rahul Gandhi had tweeted his resignation letter, asking Congress to appoint a new party chief without any further delay. Earlier this month, Rawat had said that under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi Congress can go from defeat to victory. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister had said. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister said. Rahul Gandhi had first offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

AICC General Secretary Harish Rawat resigns, takes responsibility for Congress's debacle in Lok Sabha elections

India Watch, 3 July, 2019. To know more watch the video.

India Watch, 3rd July, 2019

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