Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

They were supported by TMC members who moved into aisle.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh called members to raise matters of public importance during the zero hour but nothing could be heard in the din.

Anand Sharma (Cong) said the entire North-East is on fire as the legislation would effect the security and safety of the region.

He demanded that Home Minister come to the House and make a statement assuring that the Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, will not impact the integrity of the country.

The Bill, he said, is "sending out dangerous message." 
Harivansh repeatedly asked members to return to their places but his pleas went unheeded.

He then adjourned the proceedings till noon.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Rajya Sabha proceedings were Wednesday adjourned till 1200 hrs following ruckus by opposition parties led by Congress over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Slogan shouting Congress members trooped into the well of the House protesting against the bill that gives citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from neighbouring Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. They were supported by TMC members who moved into aisle. Deputy Chairman Harivansh called members to raise matters of public importance during the zero hour but nothing could be heard in the din. Anand Sharma (Cong) said the entire North-East is on fire as the legislation would effect the security and safety of the region. He demanded that Home Minister come to the House and make a statement assuring that the Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, will not impact the integrity of the country. The Bill, he said, is "sending out dangerous message." Harivansh repeatedly asked members to return to their places but his pleas went unheeded. He then adjourned the proceedings till noon.

Rajya Sabha adjourned over Citizenship Bill protests

There is little doubt that Narendra Modi’s phenomenal victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha election was fashioned in the main by the youth or more specifically, the first-time voter.&nbsp;

This was no ordinary display of youth power. Disillusioned by years of Congress corruption and cynicism, the BJP leader’s catchy slogans and persuasive appeal to the young and aspirational voters, won the saffron party its most significant spurs in history.

Given that two in three Indians are below 35 years of age and about a million more need employment every month, the then Gujarat chief minister’s promises found many takers.

While old habits like voting for dynastic politicians and netas with criminal backgrounds continued in 2014, there was greater awareness of macroeconomic issues than ever before. Modi’s constant stress on development reiterated that point. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For the young voters, Modi’s record on development as Gujarat chief minister offered hope in a country that had begun to lose faith in the Congress.

In the forthcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections, with an estimated 12.7 crore first-time voters, making India the youngest country in the world, the big challenge for the ruling party is to keep the young and the aspirational voters on its side.&nbsp;

It is instructive to fall back on the past to perhaps understand what could happen in 2019. A media survey in early 2014 said that almost half of the nearly 15 crore Indians, who were going to be first-time voters in the 2014 general election, wanted to see Modi as the Prime Minister. And so they did.

But this vast flotsam is like a tinderbox; their passion can easily turn into a strong dislike, if the going gets tough and with little skills, the going is never going to be easy.

Consider this. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), a think tank that tracks business and economic data, as of February 2018, 31 million jobless people were looking for employment opportunities. This number is likely to rise as a fresh batch of graduates joins the market.

Between April and December 2016, a nine-month period, 2.3 lakh jobs were created across eight key sectors. However, given the enormous economic complexities, this is far short of what is needed: the latest figures suggest that 10 lakh Indians enter the job market every month.

The situation is so grim that one recent report indicated that 20 million Indians had applied for 1,00,000 jobs in the Indian Railways. In other words, there were 200 young jobless people applying for one post and competing with each other. And the jobs were no top-of-the-line railway executive openings, but people vying for locomotive drivers, technicians and the railway police — all of them need bare minimum qualifications.

Yet, such is the level of desperation that even highly qualified PhD scholars were among the applicants for the role of technicians.&nbsp;

India’s job crisis is now staring the Narendra Modi government in the face more ominously than when it came to power in 2014. The big problem for the present government, which has been trying and thinking out of the box to get around the problem, is that there is simply no time left to fix it. Elections are now a few months away and economic issues are not something that can be solved overnight.&nbsp;

The bigger problem is that the young generation, that is growing up on 4G and a 24-hour information inflow, has grown a little too aspirational for any government - let along this government’s comfort.&nbsp;

Most surveys, particularly the serious ones, believe that unemployment and lack of jobs are the main reasons for dissatisfaction among the young.&nbsp;

Two months ago, a group of students protested on rail tracks demanding employment. Stories of stampedes during examinations for government jobs, are not new by any chance, but they continue to be reported in India, live examples of how lives may not have changed with the change of government that has promised and even tried hard to achieve numbers that are simply humongous.&nbsp;

But clearly, elections every five years is a constitutionally guaranteed opportunity to keep seeking change until good governance is delivered.&nbsp;

Employment is directly linked to skills and the Modi government programme for skilling, despite best efforts, has run into choppy waters. Of the millions entering the workforce every year, skills are at a premium. &nbsp;

Now consider this. By 2022, India aimed to create a pool of 500 million skilled workers. The overly ambitious target could hardly be flawed, but it obviously did not take volumes into consideration.&nbsp;

According to the latest government statistics, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has been able to train 51 million since 2014. Of them, 21 million managed to get jobs. &nbsp;

A deeper study reveals that India could have taken a leaf out of China’s book. The Asian rival’s success in creating a skilled labour force can be attributed to its technical, vocational education and training system, which helped it to successfully transform into the world’s manufacturing hub after it was able to train millions of unskilled into highly skilled workers.

In the case of India too, the millions of those entering the job market are quite simply unemployable.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission data for the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the highest percentage of young voters were in Jharkhand at 9.03 per cent. The state witnessed an increase in voter turn out from 55.28 per cent in 2009 to 62.62 per cent in 2014. Some other states registering significant increases included Odisha (2.64 per cent), Haryana (2.23 per cent), Rajasthan (3.29 per cent), Chhattisgarh (4.94 per cent) and Tamil Nadu (3.23 per cent). 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-young-and-aspirational-2705421">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There is little doubt that Narendra Modi’s phenomenal victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha election was fashioned in the main by the youth or more specifically, the first-time voter.

There is little doubt that Narendra Modi’s phenomenal victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha election was fashioned in the main by the youth or more specifically, the first-time voter. This was no ordinary display of youth power. Disillusioned by years of Congress corruption and cynicism, the BJP leader’s catchy slogans and persuasive appeal to the young and aspirational voters, won the saffron party its most significant spurs in history. Given that two in three Indians are below 35 years of age and about a million more need employment every month, the then Gujarat chief minister’s promises found many takers. While old habits like voting for dynastic politicians and netas with criminal backgrounds continued in 2014, there was greater awareness of macroeconomic issues than ever before. Modi’s constant stress on development reiterated that point. For the young voters, Modi’s record on development as Gujarat chief minister offered hope in a country that had begun to lose faith in the Congress. In the forthcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections, with an estimated 12.7 crore first-time voters, making India the youngest country in the world, the big challenge for the ruling party is to keep the young and the aspirational voters on its side. It is instructive to fall back on the past to perhaps understand what could happen in 2019. A media survey in early 2014 said that almost half of the nearly 15 crore Indians, who were going to be first-time voters in the 2014 general election, wanted to see Modi as the Prime Minister. And so they did. But this vast flotsam is like a tinderbox; their passion can easily turn into a strong dislike, if the going gets tough and with little skills, the going is never going to be easy. Consider this. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), a think tank that tracks business and economic data, as of February 2018, 31 million jobless people were looking for employment opportunities. This number is likely to rise as a fresh batch of graduates joins the market. Between April and December 2016, a nine-month period, 2.3 lakh jobs were created across eight key sectors. However, given the enormous economic complexities, this is far short of what is needed: the latest figures suggest that 10 lakh Indians enter the job market every month. The situation is so grim that one recent report indicated that 20 million Indians had applied for 1,00,000 jobs in the Indian Railways. In other words, there were 200 young jobless people applying for one post and competing with each other. And the jobs were no top-of-the-line railway executive openings, but people vying for locomotive drivers, technicians and the railway police — all of them need bare minimum qualifications. Yet, such is the level of desperation that even highly qualified PhD scholars were among the applicants for the role of technicians. India’s job crisis is now staring the Narendra Modi government in the face more ominously than when it came to power in 2014. The big problem for the present government, which has been trying and thinking out of the box to get around the problem, is that there is simply no time left to fix it. Elections are now a few months away and economic issues are not something that can be solved overnight. The bigger problem is that the young generation, that is growing up on 4G and a 24-hour information inflow, has grown a little too aspirational for any government - let along this government’s comfort. Most surveys, particularly the serious ones, believe that unemployment and lack of jobs are the main reasons for dissatisfaction among the young. Two months ago, a group of students protested on rail tracks demanding employment. Stories of stampedes during examinations for government jobs, are not new by any chance, but they continue to be reported in India, live examples of how lives may not have changed with the change of government that has promised and even tried hard to achieve numbers that are simply humongous. But clearly, elections every five years is a constitutionally guaranteed opportunity to keep seeking change until good governance is delivered. Employment is directly linked to skills and the Modi government programme for skilling, despite best efforts, has run into choppy waters. Of the millions entering the workforce every year, skills are at a premium. Now consider this. By 2022, India aimed to create a pool of 500 million skilled workers. The overly ambitious target could hardly be flawed, but it obviously did not take volumes into consideration. According to the latest government statistics, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has been able to train 51 million since 2014. Of them, 21 million managed to get jobs. A deeper study reveals that India could have taken a leaf out of China’s book. The Asian rival’s success in creating a skilled labour force can be attributed to its technical, vocational education and training system, which helped it to successfully transform into the world’s manufacturing hub after it was able to train millions of unskilled into highly skilled workers. In the case of India too, the millions of those entering the job market are quite simply unemployable. According to the Election Commission data for the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the highest percentage of young voters were in Jharkhand at 9.03 per cent. The state witnessed an increase in voter turn out from 55.28 per cent in 2009 to 62.62 per cent in 2014. Some other states registering significant increases included Odisha (2.64 per cent), Haryana (2.23 per cent), Rajasthan (3.29 per cent), Chhattisgarh (4.94 per cent) and Tamil Nadu (3.23 per cent). (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

2019 Lok Sabha elections: The challenge of job creation

Months before the general election, Congress' Delhi chief Ajay Maken resigned from the post on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported.

"It was not easy to step down in difficult circumstances. I thank you all for everything," said Maken on Twitter following his resignation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Since 2015 Assembly elections, as the chief of Delhi Congress unit, I have received huge support from Congress party workers, the media covering the party and Rahul Gandhi. It was not easy to step down in difficult circumstances. I thank you all for everything," also said," Maken tweeted.

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2015 विधान सभा के उपरान्त- 
बतौर <a href="https://twitter.com/INCDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCDelhi</a> अध्यक्ष-पिछले 4 वर्षों से,दिल्ली कांग्रेस कार्यकर्ताओं द्वारा,कांग्रेस कवर करने वाली मीडिया द्वारा,एवं हमारे नेता <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> जी द्वारा,मुझे अपार स्नेह तथा सहयोग मिला है। 
 
इन कठिन परिस्थितियों में यह आसान नहीं था! इसके लिए ह्रदय से आभार!
— Ajay Maken (@ajaymaken) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajaymaken/status/1081013607855472640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the report, Maken had met party President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday to submit his resignation which is believed to be due to health reasons.

Gandhi has accepted his resignation, according to reports.

According to a report by PTI,&nbsp;former chief minister Sheila Dikshit could replace Maken as the Congress's Delhi unit president. She has maintained that the party high command's decision on alliance will be accepted by her.

Congress leaders Yoganand Shastri, Rajkumar Chauhan, Haroon Yusuf and Chatar Singh could also be considered for the post of the party's Delhi unit chief, the sources said.

Maken has been serving as the Delhi chief from since 2015 as he replaced Arvinder Singh Lovely.

Maken has served as the Congress General Secretary until 2015 when he resigned after the party's failure to win any seat in the 2015 Delhi Legislative Assembly election. However, he later joined back after Rahul Gandhi who was&nbsp;then vice president asked him to continue.

In September this year, there were media reports saying that Maken has resigned from the party. But, the reports were later denied by the party saying that he had "temporarily stepped down" because of health problems.

Following the resignation, Maken said, 'It was not easy to step down in difficult circumstances. I thank you all for everything,' on Twitter.

Months before the general election, Congress' Delhi chief Ajay Maken resigned from the post on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported. "It was not easy to step down in difficult circumstances. I thank you all for everything," said Maken on Twitter following his resignation. "Since 2015 Assembly elections, as the chief of Delhi Congress unit, I have received huge support from Congress party workers, the media covering the party and Rahul Gandhi. It was not easy to step down in difficult circumstances. I thank you all for everything," also said," Maken tweeted. 2015 विधान सभा के उपरान्त- बतौर @INCDelhi अध्यक्ष-पिछले 4 वर्षों से,दिल्ली कांग्रेस कार्यकर्ताओं द्वारा,कांग्रेस कवर करने वाली मीडिया द्वारा,एवं हमारे नेता @RahulGandhi जी द्वारा,मुझे अपार स्नेह तथा सहयोग मिला है। इन कठिन परिस्थितियों में यह आसान नहीं था! इसके लिए ह्रदय से आभार! — Ajay Maken (@ajaymaken) January 4, 2019 × According to the report, Maken had met party President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday to submit his resignation which is believed to be due to health reasons. Gandhi has accepted his resignation, according to reports. According to a report by PTI, former chief minister Sheila Dikshit could replace Maken as the Congress's Delhi unit president. She has maintained that the party high command's decision on alliance will be accepted by her. Congress leaders Yoganand Shastri, Rajkumar Chauhan, Haroon Yusuf and Chatar Singh could also be considered for the post of the party's Delhi unit chief, the sources said. Maken has been serving as the Delhi chief from since 2015 as he replaced Arvinder Singh Lovely. Maken has served as the Congress General Secretary until 2015 when he resigned after the party's failure to win any seat in the 2015 Delhi Legislative Assembly election. However, he later joined back after Rahul Gandhi who was then vice president asked him to continue. In September this year, there were media reports saying that Maken has resigned from the party. But, the reports were later denied by the party saying that he had "temporarily stepped down" because of health problems.

Ajay Maken resigns as Delhi Congress chief

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-polls-will-be-janta-versus-gathbandhan-pm-modi-187752">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday said that the Congress is trying to throw muck on him even though the party has nothing to prove him wrong.

In an exclusive interview to ANI, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/loan-waivers-do-not-benefit-majority-of-farmers-pm-modi-187761">Prime Minister Modi</a> said that those levelling allegations on him are actually weakening the Indian security forces.&nbsp;

He added that in spite of allegations from the Congress in the Rafale deal, he will continue to expedite the procurement process in defence so that country`s security is not compromised.

"Those people who want to weaken the Army are levelling allegations. Should I worry that they are making personal attacks on me, or whether my country`s needs should be met? I decided that whatever abuses are hurled at me, whatever allegations are levelled against me, I will continue on the path of honesty and give primacy to the country`s security. I won`t leave my Army jawans merely to their fate. Whatever be their requirement, I will expedite the procurement processes. I will do it even if allegations are levelled me," Mr Modi said in response to allegations of corruption in the Rafale jet purchase deal.

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When asked why he was silent on the Congress accusation of crony capitalism and alleged favouring of Anil Ambani in the Rafale deal, Mr Modi replied, "This is not an allegation against me personally, but an allegation against my government. If there is any allegation against me personally, let them dig who gave what, when and where and to whom."

"In Parliament, I have spoken elaborately on this and whichever public forum I got, I spoke about this. The matter has been cleared even by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court scrutinised it threadbare. The French President has spoken. ..Media should have the courage to ask (the Congress) where is the evidence for these allegations? Don't throw muck and run away.... They (Congress) are not able to give any real evidence, just keep talking. Unko yeh bolne ki beemari hai toh mujhe kya baar baar ussi me ulajhna chahiye kya (If they have this problem of talking about it then should I too get entangled in it)," he added.

The Prime Minister said that there should be debate in the country on why controversies have been created over defence deals since Independence and on need for middlemen in defence purchases.

"Why controversies have been created over defence deals since Independence and our forces weakened. Who is doing it? What is the reason? Also, what is the need for middlemen in the defence deals? Can`t defence deal not be done without middlemen? Had Make in India been initiated 70 years back, the malai khane wala raasta from outside would have been closed. My crime is that I am trying to Make In India. My crime is that whatever our defence forces need, that should be made in India, so that dealings outside the country end. I am trying to get technology transfer," Prime Minister said.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister sought to dispel the Congress allegation that the purchase would harm his Make in India initiative.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has accused Prime Minister Modi of favouring Anil Ambani's Reliance group in the Rafale deal by pushing Dassault Aviation to have a tie up with it through an offset clause, an allegation denied vehemently by both the Indian government and Dassault.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the Congress is trying to throw muck on him even though the party has nothing to prove him wrong. In an exclusive interview to ANI, Prime Minister Modi said that those levelling allegations on him are actually weakening the Indian security forces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the Congress is trying to throw muck on him even though the party has nothing to prove him wrong. In an exclusive interview to ANI, Prime Minister Modi said that those levelling allegations on him are actually weakening the Indian security forces. He added that in spite of allegations from the Congress in the Rafale deal, he will continue to expedite the procurement process in defence so that country`s security is not compromised. "Those people who want to weaken the Army are levelling allegations. Should I worry that they are making personal attacks on me, or whether my country`s needs should be met? I decided that whatever abuses are hurled at me, whatever allegations are levelled against me, I will continue on the path of honesty and give primacy to the country`s security. I won`t leave my Army jawans merely to their fate. Whatever be their requirement, I will expedite the procurement processes. I will do it even if allegations are levelled me," Mr Modi said in response to allegations of corruption in the Rafale jet purchase deal. × When asked why he was silent on the Congress accusation of crony capitalism and alleged favouring of Anil Ambani in the Rafale deal, Mr Modi replied, "This is not an allegation against me personally, but an allegation against my government. If there is any allegation against me personally, let them dig who gave what, when and where and to whom." "In Parliament, I have spoken elaborately on this and whichever public forum I got, I spoke about this. The matter has been cleared even by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court scrutinised it threadbare. The French President has spoken. ..Media should have the courage to ask (the Congress) where is the evidence for these allegations? Don't throw muck and run away.... They (Congress) are not able to give any real evidence, just keep talking. Unko yeh bolne ki beemari hai toh mujhe kya baar baar ussi me ulajhna chahiye kya (If they have this problem of talking about it then should I too get entangled in it)," he added. The Prime Minister said that there should be debate in the country on why controversies have been created over defence deals since Independence and on need for middlemen in defence purchases. "Why controversies have been created over defence deals since Independence and our forces weakened. Who is doing it? What is the reason? Also, what is the need for middlemen in the defence deals? Can`t defence deal not be done without middlemen? Had Make in India been initiated 70 years back, the malai khane wala raasta from outside would have been closed. My crime is that I am trying to Make In India. My crime is that whatever our defence forces need, that should be made in India, so that dealings outside the country end. I am trying to get technology transfer," Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister sought to dispel the Congress allegation that the purchase would harm his Make in India initiative. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has accused Prime Minister Modi of favouring Anil Ambani's Reliance group in the Rafale deal by pushing Dassault Aviation to have a tie up with it through an offset clause, an allegation denied vehemently by both the Indian government and Dassault.

Those accusing me in Rafale deal are weakening Indian security forces: PM Modi

The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed.

The ruling party fielded Smriti Irani to attack Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, whom the Union minister accused of supporting terrorists in his tweet that said "nobody killed" Shaikh and he "just died".

Rahul Gandhi had tweeted this after a special CBI court in Mumbai on December 21 acquitted all 22 accused in the case of the killing of Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Tulsi Prajapati in alleged fake encounters by Gujarat police between 2005 and 2006 citing insufficient evidence.

Shah, who was the minister of state for home in Gujarat at that time, was also arrested briefly in 2010 in the case before being discharged in December 2014.

"It is now clear that the CBI had arrested Amit Shah in 2010 at the prodding of the Congress leadership," Irani said.

She alleged Shah was targeted by the CBI as a part of a "political conspiracy" of the Congress and its then-president because Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the then Gujarat chief minister, and Shah were seen as political rivals by the party.

"The Congress and its president used the CBI to manufacture evidence to politically destroy Shah. It is one of the finest examples of the length to which the Congress will go to destroy its political opponents," she said.

She described the case as a trial by fire for Shah and said he came out unscathed, as the country's verdict had shown that "truth cannot be destroyed".

There was no immediate response from the Congress to her allegations.

The Congress is always willing to trample upon justice and the Constitution to finish off its political rivals, Irani alleged.&nbsp;

Targeting Rahul Gandhi, she said his tweet was an expression of frustration that Shah came out of the case unscathed despite eight years of harassment.

Following the court's order acquitting the accused, Gandhi had tweeted, "No one killed Haren Pandya. Tulsiram Prajapati. Justice Loya. Prakash Thombre. Shrikant Khandalkar. Kauser Bi. Sohrabuddin Shiekh. They just died."&nbsp;

Irani alleged that the Congress will not spare anybody who comes in the way of its pursuit of power which it uses not to serve people but "one family".

She noted that activist Harsh Mander, who she claimed was a member of Sonia Gandhi's "kitchen cabinet", had moved the Supreme Court against Shah's discharge.

Irani read from the Mumbai court's order that criticised the CBI probe and said the agency created evidence to suit its "preconceived and premeditated" theory to implicate political leaders.

The BJP leader alleged that Shah was arrested in 2010 on the "order" of the Congress leadership and left to "rot" in jail before he was granted bail by the court.

"The court has admitted that these cases were slapped against Shah for purely political reasons. Not only in the Mumbai High Court but also in the Supreme Court, the Congress' conspiracy got defeated, " Irani told reporters.&nbsp;

To a question about AgustaWestland case accused Christian Michel's speaking of "Mrs Gandhi" and making other references which the BJP has linked to the Gandhi family, Irani said sarcastically that she was not in a position to explain it as she is neither Italian and nor her son's name begins with 'R'.

She alleged that the Congress had dispatched its lawyers to help Michel whose "historical relations" with the Gandhi family are established.

The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed.

The BJP on Tuesday accused the Congress leadership of using the CBI to manufacture evidence in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh case to "politically destroy" its president Amit Shah who, it said, has come out of this "trial by fire" unscathed. The ruling party fielded Smriti Irani to attack Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, whom the Union minister accused of supporting terrorists in his tweet that said "nobody killed" Shaikh and he "just died". Rahul Gandhi had tweeted this after a special CBI court in Mumbai on December 21 acquitted all 22 accused in the case of the killing of Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Tulsi Prajapati in alleged fake encounters by Gujarat police between 2005 and 2006 citing insufficient evidence. Shah, who was the minister of state for home in Gujarat at that time, was also arrested briefly in 2010 in the case before being discharged in December 2014. "It is now clear that the CBI had arrested Amit Shah in 2010 at the prodding of the Congress leadership," Irani said. She alleged Shah was targeted by the CBI as a part of a "political conspiracy" of the Congress and its then-president because Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the then Gujarat chief minister, and Shah were seen as political rivals by the party. "The Congress and its president used the CBI to manufacture evidence to politically destroy Shah. It is one of the finest examples of the length to which the Congress will go to destroy its political opponents," she said. She described the case as a trial by fire for Shah and said he came out unscathed, as the country's verdict had shown that "truth cannot be destroyed". There was no immediate response from the Congress to her allegations. The Congress is always willing to trample upon justice and the Constitution to finish off its political rivals, Irani alleged. Targeting Rahul Gandhi, she said his tweet was an expression of frustration that Shah came out of the case unscathed despite eight years of harassment. Following the court's order acquitting the accused, Gandhi had tweeted, "No one killed Haren Pandya. Tulsiram Prajapati. Justice Loya. Prakash Thombre. Shrikant Khandalkar. Kauser Bi. Sohrabuddin Shiekh. They just died." Irani alleged that the Congress will not spare anybody who comes in the way of its pursuit of power which it uses not to serve people but "one family". She noted that activist Harsh Mander, who she claimed was a member of Sonia Gandhi's "kitchen cabinet", had moved the Supreme Court against Shah's discharge. Irani read from the Mumbai court's order that criticised the CBI probe and said the agency created evidence to suit its "preconceived and premeditated" theory to implicate political leaders. The BJP leader alleged that Shah was arrested in 2010 on the "order" of the Congress leadership and left to "rot" in jail before he was granted bail by the court. "The court has admitted that these cases were slapped against Shah for purely political reasons. Not only in the Mumbai High Court but also in the Supreme Court, the Congress' conspiracy got defeated, " Irani told reporters. To a question about AgustaWestland case accused Christian Michel's speaking of "Mrs Gandhi" and making other references which the BJP has linked to the Gandhi family, Irani said sarcastically that she was not in a position to explain it as she is neither Italian and nor her son's name begins with 'R'. She alleged that the Congress had dispatched its lawyers to help Michel whose "historical relations" with the Gandhi family are established.

Congress used Sohrabuddin case to 'politically destroy' Amit Shah: BJP

On the first day of 2019, and a few months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, here are four simple resolutions that could change our politics for the better. The level of discourse pertaining to politics has plummeted to unprecedented levels. A general perception prevails that our politics is become too bitter and is based on hate and revulsion towards political opponents. If politicians are concerned about this growing apathy and disgust for them they better follow some urgent steps.&nbsp;

Refrain from personal attacks&nbsp;

Over the last few years, Indian politics has reached its nadir. Slander, abuse and name-calling have become de rigueur and from top-ranking leaders to a party cadre, we have a stare at a bleak scenario when it comes to civility and basic courtesies. Whether it is inside Parliament, TV studios or public rallies, our politicians have crossed all red lines, so much so that political opponents appear to be mortal enemies! This needs to change as we head into an election year because without mutual respect and certain inviolable norms of public behaviour, Indian democracy will only be further weakened. &nbsp;

PPP- Practise Positive Politics &nbsp;

The mutual abuse that parties are currently heaping on each other, stems from a pool of negativity that is detrimental to democracy. While political and ideological opponents must fight it out in the electoral arena, stooping down to exacting personal vendettas cannot be condoned. Similarly, creating false narratives based on half-truths and innuendos are destroying public&nbsp;trust in politicians. If left unchecked it will erode away the peoples’ belief in the political system as well and could even pave way for more anarchic forces. &nbsp;

Focus on real issues&nbsp;

For a majority of Indians, issue emanating from growing inequality, lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare and education, safe spaces for children and girls, and opportunities of employment are in fact the real issues they would like to see resolved. However, issues like Mandir-Masjid&nbsp;may resonate with a small section of people but have come to occupy a disproportionately large share of politics today.&nbsp;

India’s health expenditure remains less than 3 per cent of its GDP, there is a severe dearth of quality and accessible school education for over 80 per cent Indian children. There is a severe crisis of undernutrition in a huge swathe of the country and process of migration for economic opportunities is overburdening India’s unprepared cities. In the new year, it is on such issues that political parties really need to focus on and just include them as a formality in their respective manifestos.&nbsp;

Don’t mislead people&nbsp;

With technology enabling real and digital manipulation of the voters’ minds, it is important that politicians strictly follow a personal code of conduct which shuns promoting the use of technology to come up with fake news, memes, audio recordings, and other such materials. Such unethical practices may help them reap short-term and narrow political gains but in the long term, it will be the death-knell of people’s trust in the political class. And once people’s trust disappears it won’t be long before our entire democratic political system starts crumbling. Therefore, politicians must resolve to neither overtly or covertly to either promote or sanction the creation of any material or narrative that seeks to mislead people on any issue pertaining to religion, caste, community, gender or any other matter.&nbsp;

Political parties and leaders from across the political spectrum need to resolve to shun this negativist politics and resolve to only work on positive ideas. To be sure, it is not meant that Indian politics should become inert and boring, but only that our politics should not be centred only on criticism, vendetta and spiteful jingoism.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

On the first day of 2019, and a few months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, here are four simple resolutions that could change our politics for the better. The level of discourse pertaining to politics has plummeted to unprecedented levels.

On the first day of 2019, and a few months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, here are four simple resolutions that could change our politics for the better. The level of discourse pertaining to politics has plummeted to unprecedented levels. A general perception prevails that our politics is become too bitter and is based on hate and revulsion towards political opponents. If politicians are concerned about this growing apathy and disgust for them they better follow some urgent steps. Refrain from personal attacks Over the last few years, Indian politics has reached its nadir. Slander, abuse and name-calling have become de rigueur and from top-ranking leaders to a party cadre, we have a stare at a bleak scenario when it comes to civility and basic courtesies. Whether it is inside Parliament, TV studios or public rallies, our politicians have crossed all red lines, so much so that political opponents appear to be mortal enemies! This needs to change as we head into an election year because without mutual respect and certain inviolable norms of public behaviour, Indian democracy will only be further weakened. PPP- Practise Positive Politics The mutual abuse that parties are currently heaping on each other, stems from a pool of negativity that is detrimental to democracy. While political and ideological opponents must fight it out in the electoral arena, stooping down to exacting personal vendettas cannot be condoned. Similarly, creating false narratives based on half-truths and innuendos are destroying public trust in politicians. If left unchecked it will erode away the peoples’ belief in the political system as well and could even pave way for more anarchic forces. Focus on real issues For a majority of Indians, issue emanating from growing inequality, lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare and education, safe spaces for children and girls, and opportunities of employment are in fact the real issues they would like to see resolved. However, issues like Mandir-Masjid may resonate with a small section of people but have come to occupy a disproportionately large share of politics today. India’s health expenditure remains less than 3 per cent of its GDP, there is a severe dearth of quality and accessible school education for over 80 per cent Indian children. There is a severe crisis of undernutrition in a huge swathe of the country and process of migration for economic opportunities is overburdening India’s unprepared cities. In the new year, it is on such issues that political parties really need to focus on and just include them as a formality in their respective manifestos. Don’t mislead people With technology enabling real and digital manipulation of the voters’ minds, it is important that politicians strictly follow a personal code of conduct which shuns promoting the use of technology to come up with fake news, memes, audio recordings, and other such materials. Such unethical practices may help them reap short-term and narrow political gains but in the long term, it will be the death-knell of people’s trust in the political class. And once people’s trust disappears it won’t be long before our entire democratic political system starts crumbling. Therefore, politicians must resolve to neither overtly or covertly to either promote or sanction the creation of any material or narrative that seeks to mislead people on any issue pertaining to religion, caste, community, gender or any other matter. Political parties and leaders from across the political spectrum need to resolve to shun this negativist politics and resolve to only work on positive ideas. To be sure, it is not meant that Indian politics should become inert and boring, but only that our politics should not be centred only on criticism, vendetta and spiteful jingoism. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Resolutions that political parties must make in 2019

Congress party president Rahul Gandhi on Monday approved the appointment of 10 persons as national spokespersons of the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

Randeep Singh Surjewala, in-charge of communications, AICC, informed that Dr Syed Naseer Hussain, Member of Rajya Sabha, Pawan Khera, Jaiveer Shergill, Ragini Nayak, Dr Gourav Vallabh, Rajiv Tyagi, Akhilesh Pratap Singh, Sunil Ahire, Hina Kaware, and Dr Sravan Dasoju have been appointed as national spokespersons by the party president.&nbsp;

Congress party president Rahul Gandhi on Monday approved the appointment of 10 persons as national spokespersons of the All India Congress Committee (AICC). Randeep Singh Surjewala, in-charge of communications, AICC, informed that Dr Syed Naseer Hussain, Member of Rajya Sabha, Pawan Khera, Jaiveer Shergill, Ragini Nayak, Dr Gourav Vallabh, Rajiv Tyagi, Akhilesh Pratap Singh, Sunil Ahire, Hina Kaware, and Dr Sravan Dasoju have been appointed as national spokespersons by the party president.

Rahul Gandhi appoints 10 national spokespersons for AICC

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

"If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting&nbsp; 
press release here.

Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP.

She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support.

The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs.

The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own.

Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed.

"The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement.

She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better.

The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn.

Virtually putting the Congress-led governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan on notice, the BSP supremo Mayawati Monday said she might have to "reconsider" her party's outside support to them if cases against "innocent" persons framed in Bharat Bandh on April 2 were not withdrawn. "If the newly-elected governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan do not act swiftly and withdraw the cases against the innocent persons framed in Bharat Bandh, the BSP may have to reconsider extending the outside support to the Congress governments," she said in a hard-hitting press release here. Mayawati said the cases against the innocent people framed out of political and caste considerations in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states including MP and Rajasthan, which were previously under the BJP. She said now that MP and Rajasthan are ruled by the Congress, the new governments should immediately withdraw such cases, failing which her party would have to reconsider its decision of extending outside support. The BSP has two members in Madhya Pradesh's 230-member assembly, while in Rajasthan her party has six seats in the House of 200 MLAs. The BSP extended outside support to the Congress to form governments in these two states as it had failed to reach majority on its own. Mayawati also said the governments formed by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan should not work like the BJP, which did not fulfil its promises made to the farmers and the unemployed. "The warning to the Congress is necessary, as now merely making announcements is not enough. People are of the view that in making promises on papers, the Congress and the BJP are two sides of the same coin. Now, it depends on the Congress whether it is able to change this perception," she said in the statement. She said had the Centre left its "stubborn" behaviour pertaining to triple talaq bill, 2018, and sent it to the joint select committee of Parliament as demanded by the entire Opposition, it would have been better. The BSP chief said in the past five years, there have been non-fulfilment of promises, and by showing dreams of 'achchey din', demonetisation and GST have been implemented in an immature manner.

Might have to reconsider support to Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan govts: Mayawati

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep".

In a series of tweets, Shah also asked if Michel wanted details of his questioning by investigators to be passed onto "Mrs Gandhi".

"Trails of the AgustaWestland Case?the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs Gandhi to his lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs Gandhi herself? Why?" he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Trails of the AgustaWestland Case…the SOS of Christian Michel. 
 
Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs. Gandhi to his Lawyer?&nbsp; 
 
Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs. Gandhi herself? Why?
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651578670399488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shah said Michel's lawyer had admitted that the alleged middleman indeed passed paper to him and claimed that he thought it was a list of medicines.

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Michel’s lawyer has admitted that the paper was indeed passed on to him. He thought that it was a list of medicines, which could have been transparently given in any case.&nbsp; 
 
We have heard of Zandu Balm and Tiger Balm but what is this ‘Family Balm’ that every middleman wants?
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651611763445763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The BJP president took an apparent swipe at the Gandhi family, saying people have heard of Zandu balm and Tiger balm -- medicines used to relieve pain -- but what is this "family balm" that every middleman wants.

"In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel's lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a sham. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs Gandhi!" Shah said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel’s lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a SHAM. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs. Gandhi!
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651679996399616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress had expelled Aljo K Joseph, an office bearer in its youth wing, after he appeared as a counsel for Michel.

"In national interest, Michel's lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep," Shah said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In national interest, Michel’s lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs. Gandhi. 
 
Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1079651737420603393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A Delhi court had Saturday imposed restrictions on Michel, the alleged middleman in the purchase of VVIP choppers during the UPA's tenure, meeting his lawyers in Enforcement Directorate's custody. The directions were given after the probe agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi".

The agency also claimed that he has spoken about "son of an Italian lady" and taken "Mrs Gandhi's" name in reference to a query.

The BJP has used this disclosure to attack the Congress, especially the Gandhi family.

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep".

Targeting the Gandhi family, BJP chief Amit Shah Monday said the "friendship" between Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland deal, and the Congress' top leadership is "time-tested and deep". In a series of tweets, Shah also asked if Michel wanted details of his questioning by investigators to be passed onto "Mrs Gandhi". "Trails of the AgustaWestland Case?the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs Gandhi to his lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs Gandhi herself? Why?" he tweeted. Trails of the AgustaWestland Case…the SOS of Christian Michel. Does anyone know why Christian Michel passed on the details of questioning on Mrs. Gandhi to his Lawyer? Did he want them to be passed on to Mrs. Gandhi herself? Why? — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × Shah said Michel's lawyer had admitted that the alleged middleman indeed passed paper to him and claimed that he thought it was a list of medicines. Michel’s lawyer has admitted that the paper was indeed passed on to him. He thought that it was a list of medicines, which could have been transparently given in any case. We have heard of Zandu Balm and Tiger Balm but what is this ‘Family Balm’ that every middleman wants? — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × The BJP president took an apparent swipe at the Gandhi family, saying people have heard of Zandu balm and Tiger balm -- medicines used to relieve pain -- but what is this "family balm" that every middleman wants. "In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel's lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a sham. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs Gandhi!" Shah said. In any case, what must be told again and again is the Congress background of Michel’s lawyer. The so called expulsion remains a SHAM. He remains the conduit between Michel and Mrs. Gandhi! — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × The Congress had expelled Aljo K Joseph, an office bearer in its youth wing, after he appeared as a counsel for Michel. "In national interest, Michel's lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep," Shah said. In national interest, Michel’s lawyer must tell us about the existence of documents of 2008, which make a reference to Mrs. Gandhi. Evidently, the friendship between Michel and one family in India is time tested and deep. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 31, 2018 × A Delhi court had Saturday imposed restrictions on Michel, the alleged middleman in the purchase of VVIP choppers during the UPA's tenure, meeting his lawyers in Enforcement Directorate's custody. The directions were given after the probe agency said he was misusing legal access by passing chits to the advocates asking them how to tackle questions on "Mrs Gandhi". The agency also claimed that he has spoken about "son of an Italian lady" and taken "Mrs Gandhi's" name in reference to a query. The BJP has used this disclosure to attack the Congress, especially the Gandhi family.

Friendship between one family and Christian Michel 'time-tested and deep': Amit Shah

Regional parties have played a key role in government formation at the Centre since the advent of the coalition era in 1989. BJP’s loss in three Hindi heartland states have given them hope of a hung Parliament in 2019 where they could again play the role of a kingmaker. Many such parties are discussing with Congress to form the mahagathbandhan (MGB) to take on the BJP. Alliances in key states of UP, Bihar, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, which account for 207 seats, out of which NDA won 150 in 2014, will decide the course of 2019.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh: The entire premise that BJP will have a tough time in 2019 is built on the alliance between Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in UP. It was tested in bypolls to three seats earlier this year where BJP recorded big losses. BSP and SP have a solid vote base of Dalits, Muslims and Yadavs accounting for 44 per cent of the population. The alliance has proved it can seamlessly transfer votes in bypolls. Both parties are known for their anti-BJP stance. They are toying with the idea of joining MGB. Though, Congress is well past its prime in the Hindi heartland and is confined to two family-stronghold seats, it can be a game-changer in 13 seats.

Strategists in both parties feel while they will be able to transfer votes to Congress, the reciprocity is unlikely to happen like in 1996 (BSP-INC alliance) and 2017 (SP-INC alliance). There’s not much value which Congress brings to the table in UP. Both these parties may not want to tie their fate to MGB, and &nbsp;instead join the Third Front and wait for results.&nbsp;

Bihar: The fight is veering towards a bipolar contest in Bihar. BJP-led NDA consisting of JDU and LJP vs RJD-led UPA consisting of Congress, Jitan Ram Manjhi, Upendra Kushwaha and Sharad Yadav. BJP inducted Kushwaha before 2014, to make a dent in Nitish Kumar’s Kurmi/Koeri vote bank which accounts for 12 per cent of population. After JDU’s ghar wapsi, BJP faced the problem of plenty. It eased out Kushwaha and retained Paswan who has considerable clout among Dalits (6 per cent of population). He will also act as NDA’s counter to Manjhi who is a leader of Mahadalits (10 per cent of population). Both alliances have almost equal support, NDA of upper caste, Kurmi / Koeri and Dalits while UPA of Muslims and Yadavs. Mahadalits and Most Backward Classes (24 per cent) hold the keys to success in Bihar. RJD hopes to encash on the double &nbsp; anti-incumbency, against Modi’s 5-year and Nitish’s 13-year rule. Paswan who is a political bellwether has decided to stay with NDA. The problem of plenty has now shifted to UPA, so one can expect a big tussle on ticket distribution there.

Maharashtra: BJP almost won the state elections contesting independently held six months after Lok Sabha polls. It did partner with Shiv Sena to form the government, but their relationship strained forever. Shiv Sena which was the bigger brother in the state found itself to be the junior partner. It is playing the role of opposition within the NDA, sharply critical of Modi and has announced plans to contest 2019 elections alone. On the other hand, NCP and Congress have sealed a 24-24 formula for elections. Congress has adopted an accommodative approach for bigger goal of defeating BJP. Shiv Sena is adopting ‘hum to doobenge sanam tumko bhi le doobenge’ strategy.&nbsp;

As per my analysis, Shiv Sena could be routed and get 2-3 seats (current 18) while BJP may not suffer much with loss of 4-5 seats (current 23), based on 2014 numbers. UPA could gain 20-odd seats. Uddhav is making noise to extract his pound of flesh from BJP. Both parties need each other and will come to the table soon.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu: All allies of BJP in state (PMK, DMDK, MDMK, PT) have left NDA. The political landscape has changed with Jaya’s death, split in AIADMK and entry of superstars Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan in politics. DMK stays with UPA and could play a crucial role in 2019 as state exhibits a strong trend of AIADMK and DMK alternately sweeping the state in central elections. BJP initially hoped to ally with AIADMK however, split of TTK, has forced a rethink. It needs to bag few seats here to negate losses in North and West where it has maxed out. It has also sent feelers to Rajini. Rajini could join NDA and Kamal UPA in my opinion.&nbsp;

Apart from these, other key players are AITC, BJD, TRS and CPM: AITC is facing the heat from BJP in West Bengal. It needs support of Congress to thwart attempts of BJP. However, Congress doesn’t gain much from the alliance as Mamata Banerjee doesn’t have any votes outside Bengal. Mamata is averse to joining any Third Front as the leadership issue has become complicated.

<img alt="Federal clout at power centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8be145a-44d2-423d-8c16-0e3f8cc26349" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/771140-tally-in.jpg" />

Naveen Patnaik has maintained an equidistance approach from BJP and Congress. He is not keen on joining UPA as Congress is the principal opposition party in Odisha. BJP is also gaining strength there and his joining NDA will help BJP piggyback on BJD’s vote bank.

TRS can’t join UPA as Congress is the principal opposition party in Telangana. War of words between Modi and KCR during state polls have ensured he can’t join NDA immediately. He is floating the idea of Third Front to make a rainbow coalition of regional parties. Akhilesh has shown interest while Mamata and Naveen have been non-committal.&nbsp;

CPM can’t join MGB, as it is left with sizeable presence only in Kerala and Bengal. If it joins MGB it risks losing space to Congress in Kerala. It can under no circumstances join hands with Mamata in Bengal.&nbsp;

All regional parties have a common wish: a hung Parliament. The elections circus has just begun.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-federal-clout-at-power-centre-2701542">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Regional parties have played a key role in government formation at the Centre since the advent of the coalition era in 1989. BJP’s loss in three Hindi heartland states have given them hope of a hung Parliament in 2019 where they could again play the role of a kingmaker.

Regional parties have played a key role in government formation at the Centre since the advent of the coalition era in 1989. BJP’s loss in three Hindi heartland states have given them hope of a hung Parliament in 2019 where they could again play the role of a kingmaker. Many such parties are discussing with Congress to form the mahagathbandhan (MGB) to take on the BJP. Alliances in key states of UP, Bihar, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, which account for 207 seats, out of which NDA won 150 in 2014, will decide the course of 2019. Uttar Pradesh: The entire premise that BJP will have a tough time in 2019 is built on the alliance between Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in UP. It was tested in bypolls to three seats earlier this year where BJP recorded big losses. BSP and SP have a solid vote base of Dalits, Muslims and Yadavs accounting for 44 per cent of the population. The alliance has proved it can seamlessly transfer votes in bypolls. Both parties are known for their anti-BJP stance. They are toying with the idea of joining MGB. Though, Congress is well past its prime in the Hindi heartland and is confined to two family-stronghold seats, it can be a game-changer in 13 seats. Strategists in both parties feel while they will be able to transfer votes to Congress, the reciprocity is unlikely to happen like in 1996 (BSP-INC alliance) and 2017 (SP-INC alliance). There’s not much value which Congress brings to the table in UP. Both these parties may not want to tie their fate to MGB, and instead join the Third Front and wait for results. Bihar: The fight is veering towards a bipolar contest in Bihar. BJP-led NDA consisting of JDU and LJP vs RJD-led UPA consisting of Congress, Jitan Ram Manjhi, Upendra Kushwaha and Sharad Yadav. BJP inducted Kushwaha before 2014, to make a dent in Nitish Kumar’s Kurmi/Koeri vote bank which accounts for 12 per cent of population. After JDU’s ghar wapsi, BJP faced the problem of plenty. It eased out Kushwaha and retained Paswan who has considerable clout among Dalits (6 per cent of population). He will also act as NDA’s counter to Manjhi who is a leader of Mahadalits (10 per cent of population). Both alliances have almost equal support, NDA of upper caste, Kurmi / Koeri and Dalits while UPA of Muslims and Yadavs. Mahadalits and Most Backward Classes (24 per cent) hold the keys to success in Bihar. RJD hopes to encash on the double anti-incumbency, against Modi’s 5-year and Nitish’s 13-year rule. Paswan who is a political bellwether has decided to stay with NDA. The problem of plenty has now shifted to UPA, so one can expect a big tussle on ticket distribution there. Maharashtra: BJP almost won the state elections contesting independently held six months after Lok Sabha polls. It did partner with Shiv Sena to form the government, but their relationship strained forever. Shiv Sena which was the bigger brother in the state found itself to be the junior partner. It is playing the role of opposition within the NDA, sharply critical of Modi and has announced plans to contest 2019 elections alone. On the other hand, NCP and Congress have sealed a 24-24 formula for elections. Congress has adopted an accommodative approach for bigger goal of defeating BJP. Shiv Sena is adopting ‘hum to doobenge sanam tumko bhi le doobenge’ strategy. As per my analysis, Shiv Sena could be routed and get 2-3 seats (current 18) while BJP may not suffer much with loss of 4-5 seats (current 23), based on 2014 numbers. UPA could gain 20-odd seats. Uddhav is making noise to extract his pound of flesh from BJP. Both parties need each other and will come to the table soon. Tamil Nadu: All allies of BJP in state (PMK, DMDK, MDMK, PT) have left NDA. The political landscape has changed with Jaya’s death, split in AIADMK and entry of superstars Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan in politics. DMK stays with UPA and could play a crucial role in 2019 as state exhibits a strong trend of AIADMK and DMK alternately sweeping the state in central elections. BJP initially hoped to ally with AIADMK however, split of TTK, has forced a rethink. It needs to bag few seats here to negate losses in North and West where it has maxed out. It has also sent feelers to Rajini. Rajini could join NDA and Kamal UPA in my opinion. Apart from these, other key players are AITC, BJD, TRS and CPM: AITC is facing the heat from BJP in West Bengal. It needs support of Congress to thwart attempts of BJP. However, Congress doesn’t gain much from the alliance as Mamata Banerjee doesn’t have any votes outside Bengal. Mamata is averse to joining any Third Front as the leadership issue has become complicated. Naveen Patnaik has maintained an equidistance approach from BJP and Congress. He is not keen on joining UPA as Congress is the principal opposition party in Odisha. BJP is also gaining strength there and his joining NDA will help BJP piggyback on BJD’s vote bank. TRS can’t join UPA as Congress is the principal opposition party in Telangana. War of words between Modi and KCR during state polls have ensured he can’t join NDA immediately. He is floating the idea of Third Front to make a rainbow coalition of regional parties. Akhilesh has shown interest while Mamata and Naveen have been non-committal. CPM can’t join MGB, as it is left with sizeable presence only in Kerala and Bengal. If it joins MGB it risks losing space to Congress in Kerala. It can under no circumstances join hands with Mamata in Bengal. All regional parties have a common wish: a hung Parliament. The elections circus has just begun. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Regional parties could play key role in 2019

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019.

The party said that after the BJP came to power at the Centre, the Defence Ministry lifted the ban on AgustaWestland imposed during the UPA rule and even allowed it to bid for 100 naval utility helicopters.

"The ED may save the Modi government today, but when it is voted out of power in 2019, we are committed to fully investigate PM Modi and his government's collusion with AgustaWestland," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

He added, "Under Modi, the ED has become an embarrassing disaster."

The attack came a day after the probe agency, investigating the AgustaWestland case, told a court that accused middleman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-scam-christian-michel-named-mrs-gandhi-son-of-italian-lady-in-probe-ed-tells-court-187221">Christian Michel has made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi"</a>.

Surjewala alleged that the government was pressuring Michel to make a "false" statement against the Gandhi family and dared it to place in the public domain any such evidence it has against the Congress leadership.

He accused the government of trying to hide its own "collusion" in AgustaWestland case by creating a lot of noise.

"They are using Christian Michel as a sounding board to defend its own wrong doings and misdeeds. Panicking and running scared, PM Modi and his government are now raking up controversies to hide its own government's connivance," he said.

"It is now clear that the 'chowkidaar is daagdaar' (the watchman is tainted)," he alleged.

Surjewala also posed a set of six questions to the government and asked why the Defence Ministry ended the ban on AgustaWestland in July 2014 and made the company a part of the 'Make in India' programme.

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019.

Terming the Enforcement Directorate an "embarrassing disaster" under the current dispensation, the Congress Sunday said it is fully committed to probing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government's "collusion" with AgustaWestland if it comes to power in 2019. The party said that after the BJP came to power at the Centre, the Defence Ministry lifted the ban on AgustaWestland imposed during the UPA rule and even allowed it to bid for 100 naval utility helicopters. "The ED may save the Modi government today, but when it is voted out of power in 2019, we are committed to fully investigate PM Modi and his government's collusion with AgustaWestland," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters. He added, "Under Modi, the ED has become an embarrassing disaster." The attack came a day after the probe agency, investigating the AgustaWestland case, told a court that accused middleman Christian Michel has made a reference to "Mrs Gandhi". Surjewala alleged that the government was pressuring Michel to make a "false" statement against the Gandhi family and dared it to place in the public domain any such evidence it has against the Congress leadership. He accused the government of trying to hide its own "collusion" in AgustaWestland case by creating a lot of noise. "They are using Christian Michel as a sounding board to defend its own wrong doings and misdeeds. Panicking and running scared, PM Modi and his government are now raking up controversies to hide its own government's connivance," he said. "It is now clear that the 'chowkidaar is daagdaar' (the watchman is tainted)," he alleged. Surjewala also posed a set of six questions to the government and asked why the Defence Ministry ended the ban on AgustaWestland in July 2014 and made the company a part of the 'Make in India' programme.

Under Modi, ED has become 'embarrassing disaster': Congress hits back on 'Mrs Gandhi' claim

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices.

Angry crowds have taken to the streets in Khartoum and other cities since December 19 after a government decision to hike the cost of bread.

Nineteen people have been killed so far in the protests, the government said, and the UN on Friday called on the authorities in Sudan to investigate the deaths.

Police fired tear gas at hundreds of worshippers who staged demonstrations after Friday prayers in several cities, including Khartoum and its twin city of Omdurman on the west bank of the Nile, witnesses said.

Photographs posted by activists on social media networks showed thick plumes of smoke rising from some neighbourhoods in Khartoum as protesters burnt garbage and tyres.

In Omdurman, crowds of worshippers chanted "Freedom, Peace, Justice" as they poured out of a mosque belonging to main opposition National Umma Party, a witness said.

But they were quickly confronted by anti-riot police, the witness added.

The protests came as opposition groups called for more anti-government rallies to be held over the next few days.

A group of opposition parties met late on Thursday and agreed to "push for more protests" in the coming days, the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement.

Several opposition party members have been arrested amid a crackdown on demonstrations.

UN expert alarmed

The opposition Sudanese Congress Party said that a few hours after protests began on Friday its chief Omar el-Digeir was arrested by security agents.

"He has been taken to an unknown location," the party said in a statement.

The Sudanese Writers' Association said that well-known poet Mohamed Taha had also been arrested on Tuesday after he participated in a protest in Khartoum.

"We don't know his whereabouts," the association said.

The Sudanese journalists network said that two journalists were detained.&nbsp;

Among those killed in the protests -- which first erupted in towns and villages and later spread to Khartoum -- were two security personnel, according to the government.&nbsp;

Most died during "incidents of looting", while 219 people were wounded, said government spokesman Boshara Juma, adding that no deaths had been reported in Khartoum so far.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed "for calm and restraint" and called on "the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths and violence", a UN spokesman said in a statement.

The UN chief is "following with concern" developments in Sudan and "emphasises the need to safeguard freedom of expression and peaceful assembly", the spokesman added.

Late on Friday a minister said police had captured a group belonging to a prominent rebel leader from war-torn Darfur that had plans to "kill demonstrators".

"Police captured 10 people belonging to SLA/Abdel Wahid group along with 14 Kalashnikovs and 1,000 bullets," Minister of State for Information Mamoun Hassan said.

He said police also confiscated some computers from the group.

"Documents inside the computers reveal that these people had plans to kill demonstrators," Hassan said.

Crowds of people have rallied since last week after the government raised the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents).

Although most protests are against the high cost of living and food prices, some protesters have also adopted the slogan used in the 2011 Arab Spring -- "the people want the fall of the regime".

Sudan is facing an acute foreign exchange crisis and soaring inflation, despite Washington lifting an economic embargo in October 2017.

Inflation is running at 70 percent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices.

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices. Angry crowds have taken to the streets in Khartoum and other cities since December 19 after a government decision to hike the cost of bread. Nineteen people have been killed so far in the protests, the government said, and the UN on Friday called on the authorities in Sudan to investigate the deaths. Police fired tear gas at hundreds of worshippers who staged demonstrations after Friday prayers in several cities, including Khartoum and its twin city of Omdurman on the west bank of the Nile, witnesses said. Photographs posted by activists on social media networks showed thick plumes of smoke rising from some neighbourhoods in Khartoum as protesters burnt garbage and tyres. In Omdurman, crowds of worshippers chanted "Freedom, Peace, Justice" as they poured out of a mosque belonging to main opposition National Umma Party, a witness said. But they were quickly confronted by anti-riot police, the witness added. The protests came as opposition groups called for more anti-government rallies to be held over the next few days. A group of opposition parties met late on Thursday and agreed to "push for more protests" in the coming days, the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement. Several opposition party members have been arrested amid a crackdown on demonstrations. UN expert alarmed The opposition Sudanese Congress Party said that a few hours after protests began on Friday its chief Omar el-Digeir was arrested by security agents. "He has been taken to an unknown location," the party said in a statement. The Sudanese Writers' Association said that well-known poet Mohamed Taha had also been arrested on Tuesday after he participated in a protest in Khartoum. "We don't know his whereabouts," the association said. The Sudanese journalists network said that two journalists were detained. Among those killed in the protests -- which first erupted in towns and villages and later spread to Khartoum -- were two security personnel, according to the government. Most died during "incidents of looting", while 219 people were wounded, said government spokesman Boshara Juma, adding that no deaths had been reported in Khartoum so far. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed "for calm and restraint" and called on "the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths and violence", a UN spokesman said in a statement. The UN chief is "following with concern" developments in Sudan and "emphasises the need to safeguard freedom of expression and peaceful assembly", the spokesman added. Late on Friday a minister said police had captured a group belonging to a prominent rebel leader from war-torn Darfur that had plans to "kill demonstrators". "Police captured 10 people belonging to SLA/Abdel Wahid group along with 14 Kalashnikovs and 1,000 bullets," Minister of State for Information Mamoun Hassan said. He said police also confiscated some computers from the group. "Documents inside the computers reveal that these people had plans to kill demonstrators," Hassan said. Crowds of people have rallied since last week after the government raised the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents). Although most protests are against the high cost of living and food prices, some protesters have also adopted the slogan used in the 2011 Arab Spring -- "the people want the fall of the regime". Sudan is facing an acute foreign exchange crisis and soaring inflation, despite Washington lifting an economic embargo in October 2017. Inflation is running at 70 percent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

Sudan police break up new protests as opposition leader arrested

AgustaWestland scam: Michel caught handing chits to lawyers

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-wont-let-triple-talaq-bill-pass-in-rajya-sabha-k-c-venugopal-187198">Opposition Congress</a> in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region.

The demand comes following the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-indian-navy-divers-arrive-at-site-join-operations-187204">coal mine disaster in Meghalaya</a> in which 15 people are still trapped in a flooded illegal rat-hole mine at Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13.

"Why the state government is not taking up the matter of regularising coal mining in the state with the Centre? Legalising mining and strong regulations to surround the activity is the only way out," senior Congress leader Ampareen Lyngdoh said.

Lyngdoh had on Friday led a six-member opposition team to the accident site and made recommendations to the state government for rescue efforts.

"Fresh coal dumps are seen on both sides of the road from Khliehriat till Lumthari. This is evident of the rampant illegal mining that is still going on in the state," she alleged.

"It seems lawlessness is becoming supreme here. There were not enough forces to implement the ban either," the Congress leader said.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 imposed a blanket ban on mining and transportation of coal in the state for its adverse environmental effect and the absence of safety measures for the miners.

The Shillong East MLA said Meghalaya government has failed to call an all-party meeting to discuss on the need to resolve the ongoing ban.

"The government should call us, as we need to fight for legalising (coal mining) since we cannot stop it," she added. PTI

The Opposition Congress in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region.

The Opposition Congress in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region. The demand comes following the coal mine disaster in Meghalaya in which 15 people are still trapped in a flooded illegal rat-hole mine at Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13. "Why the state government is not taking up the matter of regularising coal mining in the state with the Centre? Legalising mining and strong regulations to surround the activity is the only way out," senior Congress leader Ampareen Lyngdoh said. Lyngdoh had on Friday led a six-member opposition team to the accident site and made recommendations to the state government for rescue efforts. "Fresh coal dumps are seen on both sides of the road from Khliehriat till Lumthari. This is evident of the rampant illegal mining that is still going on in the state," she alleged. "It seems lawlessness is becoming supreme here. There were not enough forces to implement the ban either," the Congress leader said. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 imposed a blanket ban on mining and transportation of coal in the state for its adverse environmental effect and the absence of safety measures for the miners. The Shillong East MLA said Meghalaya government has failed to call an all-party meeting to discuss on the need to resolve the ongoing ban. "The government should call us, as we need to fight for legalising (coal mining) since we cannot stop it," she added. PTI

Congress demands legalising coal mining in Meghalaya

'The Accidental Prime Minister' ran into controversy since the time its trailer was released. The Congress has said that the film, which is based on former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as PM, distorts facts and has demanded its screening before the film is released.

The film's lead actor Anupam Kher, who has portrayed Dr Singh on the screen, speaks to WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary about the film, the challenging role and the controversy around it.

Here's the full transcript of the interview:

WION: Dr Manmohan Singh was called a 'Silent PM'. He never spoke. So how challenging it was to give voice to the 'Silent PM'?

Anupam Kher: It took me 7-8 months to get into the skin of his character and portray it on screen. It was very difficult because he expresses a lot of emotions with his blank face - whether it's joy, sorrow, or&nbsp;he is hurt - and you still had to convey how he is feeling. I have done more than 500 films in my 35-year-long career, but I have never played a more difficult character on screen than this one. Dr Singh was not the leader of a foregone era, he is very much alive in the consciousness of current generation. People have seen him, they know how he behaves, so it became a big challenge for me to portray Dr Mamohan Singh on screen, especially his voice. I went back to my training days in National School of Drama (NSD) - how we used to do the voice training. I also watched his hours-long footage on YouTube and different channels. But he was not always a 'Silent PM'. I think he was hurt during his second stint - from 2009 - and that's why he became quiet. But he used to speak a lot earlier - he gave interviews to many people, spoke at various forums. I think he was hurt during the 2009-2014 stint, he was upset, so he became a 'Silent PM'.

It was a lot like what happens in our homes - sometimes the elders like our grandparents stop talking to us because they get upset. He had a great sense of humour, which comes across in the film. You will see his resilient character, a certain degree of stubbornness.

WION: At a personal level, are you a fan of Dr Manmohan Singh?

Anupam Kher: I became his fan after doing the film. I think he is a very charming man. There is a lot of charisma about him in a very different manner. He is not an extrovert, but I like his poetry and other interesting things that I learned about him during my research. When people will watch the film, they will see a very differnt character of Dr Manmohan Singh. When you will see a film of two hours, you will come across small nuances - his loneliness, his dejection, his joy and how hurt he was, his triumph and the way he used to think. He is very human, and that is what the film's character has portrayed him. He was also weak in some ways, to let other people dictate him. The reason for this is because he was not a politician, he was a bureaucrat.

WION: But did you feel he was helpless?

Anupam Kher: There was no need to do a film to show this. This was felt across the country by its citizens. We did feel that what's stopping him from taking certain decisions? Nobody questioned his honesty, his integrity, but sometimes we&nbsp;used to feel frustrated 'ki yaar ye kuchh bolte kyun nahi? Ye kuchh karte kyun nahi? (Why doesn't he speak? Why doesn't he do something?)'. From whatever I've read, his wife also used to feel the same. He will be proud of my portrayal of his character.

WION: Do you believe he will be happy after watching the film?

Anupam Kher: I have a feeling that if he does not feel hesitant after watching the film, he will definitely hug me and might even ask me to have a cup of tea with him. And I am saying this with sincerity.

WION: And what about Sonia and Rahul Gandhi? What will they think about you after watching the film?

Anupam Kher: Well, I can't give a reaction on that. They will perhaps say 'Don't have tea with him'.

WION: This film was controversial, now it has turned political after the BJP tweeted the trailer from its official handle. So there is an impression that the BJP is promoting this film and wants to gain political mileage out of it just before elections. What do you have to say?

Anupam Kher: I personally feel that a film can't decide voting pattern. Indian voter is very smart, otherwise there wouldn't have been surprises in election results. A political parties always use some things for their advantage - it has happened in the past too, with Congress. I remember reading tweets from politicians when 'Udta Punjab' was released. I think that's a personal opinion. And a political party will use any means to promote their point of view and whatever benefits them. This is a well-established fact that Mrs Gandhi did go to the President to become the Prime Minister as far as the research I have done is concerned. And then Subramanian Swamy told President Kalam that technically it cannot happen. So she had to choose from senior leaders like Pranab da, and she chose a person who was non-controversial, whose honesty was unquestionable and whom she could tell that this is what you have to do. All this is in public domain. And you don't have to wait for a film - things go viral even from television. Recently, the footage of Congress leaders telling Rahul Gandhi what to speak during an address went viral. Now if a filmmaker uses reproduces that in his/her film, how can there be objection on that? The opposition to this film is coming from a certain section of people, and it's unfortunate. But I've heard that some senior leaders in the Congress are saying that the film should not be opposed. It's a great thing and I'm thankful for that reaction.

WION: You would have known from Day 1 that if you do this film, Congress will be upset. Then what was the reason? Did you find the role challenging as an actor?

Anupam Kher: It was a lifetime opportunity for me to get a role as brilliant as that of Dr Manmohan Singh. It is the highlight of my career. And I have portrayed it as an actor. If I have to put across my political view, I don't need to make a film, I can record a video on mobile and post it on social media and millions can see it. Everyone has political leanings, but whenever I've spoken, I've spoken for my country. People think I am a political person; if I want to be a politician, I will join a political party and let you know that I've taken the political plunge.

WION: You often seem to back the BJP ideology and your wife is a BJP MP. It is being alleged that you did this film to please the BJP and that you want a ticket to Rajya Sabha from the BJP. What do you have to say about this?

Anupam Kher: No, no. I am an Indian actor trying to make India proud abroad. I don't want to come into politics, or a Rajya Sabha seat. My wife Kirron Kher has won Lok Sabha election, the seat was not offered to her on a platter. She fought the election and won it. I am an admirer of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people are free to interpret. I have spent enough time in this industry to understand 'suno sabki, karo apni (listen to everyone, but do your own thing).'

WION: You say this is the best role of your life. But people are saying you are simply mimicking Dr Manmohan Singh, so is this acting or mimicry?

Anupam Kher: People who don't know acting are making such comments and I don't have time to react to these things.

WION: Had you thought while signing the film that it will run you into a controversy? And that this argument will reach this stage?

Anupam Kher: We've followed a process, the film was cleared by the Censor Board. The audience is mature enough, we can't fool them. If my audience likes my role, that's enough for me. I am not performing to please certain people, and that is what's important.

'The Accidental Prime Minister' ran into controversy since the time its trailer was released. The Congress has said that the film, which is based on former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as PM, distorts facts and has demanded its screening before the film is released.

'The Accidental Prime Minister' ran into controversy since the time its trailer was released. The Congress has said that the film, which is based on former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as PM, distorts facts and has demanded its screening before the film is released. The film's lead actor Anupam Kher, who has portrayed Dr Singh on the screen, speaks to WION Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary about the film, the challenging role and the controversy around it. Here's the full transcript of the interview: WION: Dr Manmohan Singh was called a 'Silent PM'. He never spoke. So how challenging it was to give voice to the 'Silent PM'? Anupam Kher: It took me 7-8 months to get into the skin of his character and portray it on screen. It was very difficult because he expresses a lot of emotions with his blank face - whether it's joy, sorrow, or he is hurt - and you still had to convey how he is feeling. I have done more than 500 films in my 35-year-long career, but I have never played a more difficult character on screen than this one. Dr Singh was not the leader of a foregone era, he is very much alive in the consciousness of current generation. People have seen him, they know how he behaves, so it became a big challenge for me to portray Dr Mamohan Singh on screen, especially his voice. I went back to my training days in National School of Drama (NSD) - how we used to do the voice training. I also watched his hours-long footage on YouTube and different channels. But he was not always a 'Silent PM'. I think he was hurt during his second stint - from 2009 - and that's why he became quiet. But he used to speak a lot earlier - he gave interviews to many people, spoke at various forums. I think he was hurt during the 2009-2014 stint, he was upset, so he became a 'Silent PM'. It was a lot like what happens in our homes - sometimes the elders like our grandparents stop talking to us because they get upset. He had a great sense of humour, which comes across in the film. You will see his resilient character, a certain degree of stubbornness. WION: At a personal level, are you a fan of Dr Manmohan Singh? Anupam Kher: I became his fan after doing the film. I think he is a very charming man. There is a lot of charisma about him in a very different manner. He is not an extrovert, but I like his poetry and other interesting things that I learned about him during my research. When people will watch the film, they will see a very differnt character of Dr Manmohan Singh. When you will see a film of two hours, you will come across small nuances - his loneliness, his dejection, his joy and how hurt he was, his triumph and the way he used to think. He is very human, and that is what the film's character has portrayed him. He was also weak in some ways, to let other people dictate him. The reason for this is because he was not a politician, he was a bureaucrat. WION: But did you feel he was helpless? Anupam Kher: There was no need to do a film to show this. This was felt across the country by its citizens. We did feel that what's stopping him from taking certain decisions? Nobody questioned his honesty, his integrity, but sometimes we used to feel frustrated 'ki yaar ye kuchh bolte kyun nahi? Ye kuchh karte kyun nahi? (Why doesn't he speak? Why doesn't he do something?)'. From whatever I've read, his wife also used to feel the same. He will be proud of my portrayal of his character. WION: Do you believe he will be happy after watching the film? Anupam Kher: I have a feeling that if he does not feel hesitant after watching the film, he will definitely hug me and might even ask me to have a cup of tea with him. And I am saying this with sincerity. WION: And what about Sonia and Rahul Gandhi? What will they think about you after watching the film? Anupam Kher: Well, I can't give a reaction on that. They will perhaps say 'Don't have tea with him'. WION: This film was controversial, now it has turned political after the BJP tweeted the trailer from its official handle. So there is an impression that the BJP is promoting this film and wants to gain political mileage out of it just before elections. What do you have to say? Anupam Kher: I personally feel that a film can't decide voting pattern. Indian voter is very smart, otherwise there wouldn't have been surprises in election results. A political parties always use some things for their advantage - it has happened in the past too, with Congress. I remember reading tweets from politicians when 'Udta Punjab' was released. I think that's a personal opinion. And a political party will use any means to promote their point of view and whatever benefits them. This is a well-established fact that Mrs Gandhi did go to the President to become the Prime Minister as far as the research I have done is concerned. And then Subramanian Swamy told President Kalam that technically it cannot happen. So she had to choose from senior leaders like Pranab da, and she chose a person who was non-controversial, whose honesty was unquestionable and whom she could tell that this is what you have to do. All this is in public domain. And you don't have to wait for a film - things go viral even from television. Recently, the footage of Congress leaders telling Rahul Gandhi what to speak during an address went viral. Now if a filmmaker uses reproduces that in his/her film, how can there be objection on that? The opposition to this film is coming from a certain section of people, and it's unfortunate. But I've heard that some senior leaders in the Congress are saying that the film should not be opposed. It's a great thing and I'm thankful for that reaction. WION: You would have known from Day 1 that if you do this film, Congress will be upset. Then what was the reason? Did you find the role challenging as an actor? Anupam Kher: It was a lifetime opportunity for me to get a role as brilliant as that of Dr Manmohan Singh. It is the highlight of my career. And I have portrayed it as an actor. If I have to put across my political view, I don't need to make a film, I can record a video on mobile and post it on social media and millions can see it. Everyone has political leanings, but whenever I've spoken, I've spoken for my country. People think I am a political person; if I want to be a politician, I will join a political party and let you know that I've taken the political plunge. WION: You often seem to back the BJP ideology and your wife is a BJP MP. It is being alleged that you did this film to please the BJP and that you want a ticket to Rajya Sabha from the BJP. What do you have to say about this? Anupam Kher: No, no. I am an Indian actor trying to make India proud abroad. I don't want to come into politics, or a Rajya Sabha seat. My wife Kirron Kher has won Lok Sabha election, the seat was not offered to her on a platter. She fought the election and won it. I am an admirer of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, people are free to interpret. I have spent enough time in this industry to understand 'suno sabki, karo apni (listen to everyone, but do your own thing).' WION: You say this is the best role of your life. But people are saying you are simply mimicking Dr Manmohan Singh, so is this acting or mimicry? Anupam Kher: People who don't know acting are making such comments and I don't have time to react to these things. WION: Had you thought while signing the film that it will run you into a controversy? And that this argument will reach this stage? Anupam Kher: We've followed a process, the film was cleared by the Censor Board. The audience is mature enough, we can't fool them. If my audience likes my role, that's enough for me. I am not performing to please certain people, and that is what's important.

Don't think people's vote depends on a film: Anupam Kher to WION on controversy around 'The Accidental Prime Minister'

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Saturday met<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-contribute-rs-4500-crore-in-bhutans-12th-five-year-planpm-modi-186982"> Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering </a>here and the two discussed the political situation in the region.

The meeting took place at a local hotel.

"I had an excellent meeting today with the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr Lotay Tshering. We discussed the political situation in the region and other matters of common interest. I look forward to continuing our dialogue in the future," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Later, in a Facebook post, he said the India-Bhutan relations has endured the test of time.&nbsp;

"It's a relationship that has endured the test of time. We are joined not only by a pleasant past but also by our hopes to create a better future for the region," Gandhi said in his post.

The Bhutanese prime minister is on a state visit to India and had earlier met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.&nbsp;

Tshering arrived here on Thursday on his first foreign visit after taking charge as PM of the Himalayan nation last month following his party's victory in the general elections.&nbsp;

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Saturday met Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering here and the two discussed the political situation in the region. The meeting took place at a local hotel.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Saturday met Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering here and the two discussed the political situation in the region. The meeting took place at a local hotel. "I had an excellent meeting today with the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr Lotay Tshering. We discussed the political situation in the region and other matters of common interest. I look forward to continuing our dialogue in the future," Gandhi said on Twitter. Later, in a Facebook post, he said the India-Bhutan relations has endured the test of time. "It's a relationship that has endured the test of time. We are joined not only by a pleasant past but also by our hopes to create a better future for the region," Gandhi said in his post. The Bhutanese prime minister is on a state visit to India and had earlier met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Tshering arrived here on Thursday on his first foreign visit after taking charge as PM of the Himalayan nation last month following his party's victory in the general elections.

Rahul Gandhi meets Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed."&nbsp;

"We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed.

Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today."

He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth."

In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise.

"There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said.

Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern".

Taking a jibe at the functioning of the newly-formed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that the delay in the allocation of portfolios to the ministers is a "matter of concern". Talking to reporters at his residence, Chouhan said, "I extended my wishes to the new government, but it is a matter of concern the way formation of cabinet was delayed and now portfolio distribution is being delayed." "We are seeing media reports and various Congress leaders are insisting for particular departments causing delay in the allocation. Quota of different camps (of Congress) was fixed. This delay is historic and never happened in the state," he claimed. Chouhan said, "It is the chief minister's prerogative to allocate portfolios, but Digvijay ji - veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh - was replying on such issues claiming this work would be done today." He said, "Senior Congress MLAs like Bisahulal Singh, KP Singh and others, who don't belong to any group in Congress, failed to get berth." In a reply to a question, he said the Congress should implement farm loan waiver in accordance to their promise. "There should be no condition in loan waiver. The farm loan up to Rs 2 lakh, as on November this year end, should be waived," he said. Asked about the Congress' manifesto promise about 'banning' the RSS Shakhas in government premises, Chouhan said, "Nehru ji (Jawaharlal Nehru) and Indira ji (Indira Gandhi) had also banned, but they had to withdraw. The RSS is the biggest organisation of patriots and honest people."

Delay in portfolio allocation in newly-formed govt is matter of concern: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-aiadmk-stage-walkout-186851">Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill</a> amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time.

"This was essential and it has been passed. Congress had supported it last time, I can't understand why they walked out this time. I am sure this bill will be passed in the Rajya Sabha as well," Union Home Minister stated while addressing media.

The bill passed in Lok Sabha proposes to make the practice of instant triple talaq a punishable offence under the Indian Penal Code with the provision of a three-year jail term for the erring husband.

During the proceedings in Lok Sabha regarding the bill, some Opposition parties kept insisting on sending the bill to a Joint Select Committee and walked out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand was not accepted.

Meanwhile, BJP chief Amit Shah took to Twitter to congratulate the government for passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha."Congratulations to PM Modi ji and the entire government for successfully passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha. This is a historic step ensuring equality and dignity for the Muslim women. Congress and other parties must apologise for decades of injustice towards Muslim women," he wrote.

Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also praised Modi government on Twitter for their commitment towards women empowerment.

"The passing of triple talaq bill by Lok Sabha is a momentous occasion for the dignity and rights of India's Muslim women. The relentless pursuit of enacting this law is testament to PM Narendra Modi government's commitment to the empowerment of women," he said.

The Bill was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed unconstitutional the law that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering the word "talaq" three times in quick succession.

After Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time.

After Lok Sabha passed triple talaq bill amid huge uproar by some Opposition parties on Thursday, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted Congress for not supporting the bill and said this step was essential and he couldn't understand why they walked out this time. "This was essential and it has been passed. Congress had supported it last time, I can't understand why they walked out this time. I am sure this bill will be passed in the Rajya Sabha as well," Union Home Minister stated while addressing media. The bill passed in Lok Sabha proposes to make the practice of instant triple talaq a punishable offence under the Indian Penal Code with the provision of a three-year jail term for the erring husband. During the proceedings in Lok Sabha regarding the bill, some Opposition parties kept insisting on sending the bill to a Joint Select Committee and walked out of the House just before the bill was put to vote as their demand was not accepted. Meanwhile, BJP chief Amit Shah took to Twitter to congratulate the government for passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha."Congratulations to PM Modi ji and the entire government for successfully passing the triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha. This is a historic step ensuring equality and dignity for the Muslim women. Congress and other parties must apologise for decades of injustice towards Muslim women," he wrote. Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also praised Modi government on Twitter for their commitment towards women empowerment. "The passing of triple talaq bill by Lok Sabha is a momentous occasion for the dignity and rights of India's Muslim women. The relentless pursuit of enacting this law is testament to PM Narendra Modi government's commitment to the empowerment of women," he said. The Bill was taken up in the Parliament in August last year after a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court termed unconstitutional the law that allowed Muslim men to divorce their wives simply by uttering the word "talaq" three times in quick succession.

Rajnath Singh targets Congress for opposing triple talaq bill in Lok Sabha

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications.

Calling the bill a dangerous piece of legislation that ignores the critiques made by them, members of the transgender community on Friday staged a protest against the bill at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.

Gowda said a "massive injustice" is being perpetuated through the bill.

"We saw that without much discussion a bill was passed in Lok Sabha. The bill which claims to protecting the rights of the transgender community is actually doing the exact opposite," the Congress spokesperson said.

"When it comes to Rajya Sabha, there is a whole group of us gathered across party lines who will send it to select committee. That will give us a chance to sit with it, to work on improving it and to counter all the negativity infused by the government into the bill," he said.

Tiruchi Siva, a DMK Rajya Sabha member, said the bill is "absurd".

"The government does not even have an idea as what is a transgender.&nbsp;Going through a medical test to prove that you are a transgender is an insult rather than a right given through the bill," he said.

He said the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha in its current form. Derek O'Brien promised that the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha.

"The movement carried out by the community against the bill is very good and transgenders are loved in Bengal. My message is that don't worry, TMC is the third-largest party in Rajya Sabha and 47 MPs from the party promise that the bill will not be passed in Rajya Sabha. We also have support from other parties. This bill will go to select committee," O'Brien said.

CPI(M) MP Elamaram Kareem also expressed support for the bill and promised they would not let it pass in its current form.

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications.

Rajya Sabha members, including TMC's Derek O'Brien and Congress's Rajeev Gowda, on Friday assured the transgender community they will not let the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill pass the upper house in its present form and ensure it is sent to the select committee for modifications. Calling the bill a dangerous piece of legislation that ignores the critiques made by them, members of the transgender community on Friday staged a protest against the bill at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Gowda said a "massive injustice" is being perpetuated through the bill. "We saw that without much discussion a bill was passed in Lok Sabha. The bill which claims to protecting the rights of the transgender community is actually doing the exact opposite," the Congress spokesperson said. "When it comes to Rajya Sabha, there is a whole group of us gathered across party lines who will send it to select committee. That will give us a chance to sit with it, to work on improving it and to counter all the negativity infused by the government into the bill," he said. Tiruchi Siva, a DMK Rajya Sabha member, said the bill is "absurd". "The government does not even have an idea as what is a transgender. Going through a medical test to prove that you are a transgender is an insult rather than a right given through the bill," he said. He said the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha in its current form. Derek O'Brien promised that the bill will not get passed in Rajya Sabha. "The movement carried out by the community against the bill is very good and transgenders are loved in Bengal. My message is that don't worry, TMC is the third-largest party in Rajya Sabha and 47 MPs from the party promise that the bill will not be passed in Rajya Sabha. We also have support from other parties. This bill will go to select committee," O'Brien said. CPI(M) MP Elamaram Kareem also expressed support for the bill and promised they would not let it pass in its current form.

Will not let transgender bill pass in current form: Rajya Sabha members assure community

Congress' Shillong MP Vincent H Pala goofed up in Lok Sabha on Thursday while mentioning the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-forces-super-hercules-plane-joins-rescue-ops-in-meghalaya-high-power-pumps-airlifted-186965">trapped miners in Meghalaya</a>.

While moving an adjournment notice on the trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills district, the minister accidentally said&nbsp;Mizoram instead of Meghalaya.

"There was a need to rescue the miners trapped in Mizoram," the&nbsp;minister said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the minister on Friday said that he was quite sure that most of the miners, trapped inside the rat-hole mine in Meghalaya, have died.

"I’m very sure most people have died, I came to know from local people that there is no chance of people there, those who survive, they run away since the mining was illegal", he said.

"Earlier, the Central govt did not take seriously in sending the pumps, I hope with the new pumps coming they will be able to pump water, it will take minimum 2-3 days then we will be able to retrieve the bodies", he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Congress' Shillong MP Vincent H Pala on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MeghalayaMiners?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MeghalayaMiners</a>: Earlier the Central govt did not take seriously in sending the pumps, I hope with the new pumps coming they will be able to pump water, it will take minimum 2-3 days then we will be able to retrieve the bodies. <a href="https://t.co/QUnJYRhi4I">https://t.co/QUnJYRhi4I</a>
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The miners have been trapped since December 13 inside an illegal mine that has been flooded in Meghalaya amid dwindling hopes of finding them alive.

The Indian Air Force on Friday ordered one of its transport planes to carry high-power pumps from Odisha for the aid of 15 miners who are trapped.&nbsp;

Rescue teams are posed with a challenge of clearing the water in the area first, subsequently proceeding with the rescue operation in the vertical mine shaft which will require the team to dig tunnels into the ground.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Congress' Shillong MP Vincent H Pala goofed up in Lok Sabha on Thursday while mentioning the trapped miners in Meghalaya. While moving an adjournment notice on the trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills district, the minister accidentally said Mizoram instead of Meghalaya.

Congress' Shillong MP Vincent H Pala goofed up in Lok Sabha on Thursday while mentioning the trapped miners in Meghalaya. While moving an adjournment notice on the trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills district, the minister accidentally said Mizoram instead of Meghalaya. "There was a need to rescue the miners trapped in Mizoram," the minister said. Meanwhile, the minister on Friday said that he was quite sure that most of the miners, trapped inside the rat-hole mine in Meghalaya, have died. "I’m very sure most people have died, I came to know from local people that there is no chance of people there, those who survive, they run away since the mining was illegal", he said. "Earlier, the Central govt did not take seriously in sending the pumps, I hope with the new pumps coming they will be able to pump water, it will take minimum 2-3 days then we will be able to retrieve the bodies", he added. Congress' Shillong MP Vincent H Pala on #MeghalayaMiners: Earlier the Central govt did not take seriously in sending the pumps, I hope with the new pumps coming they will be able to pump water, it will take minimum 2-3 days then we will be able to retrieve the bodies. https://t.co/QUnJYRhi4I — ANI (@ANI) December 28, 2018 × The miners have been trapped since December 13 inside an illegal mine that has been flooded in Meghalaya amid dwindling hopes of finding them alive. The Indian Air Force on Friday ordered one of its transport planes to carry high-power pumps from Odisha for the aid of 15 miners who are trapped. Rescue teams are posed with a challenge of clearing the water in the area first, subsequently proceeding with the rescue operation in the vertical mine shaft which will require the team to dig tunnels into the ground. (With inputs from PTI)

'Trapped in Mizoram': Congress MP goofs up on Meghalaya miners in Parliament

Anticipating a debate on the contentious triple talaq bill, the Congress on Thursday issued a whip to all its MPs in Lok Sabha.

According to sources, all Lok Sabha members have been asked to be present throughout the day for participation should the debate come up.

The Congress has maintained a cautious approach on the legislation banning instant triple talaq and criminalising the offence.

Party leaders have argued against criminalisation and have also sought amendments to the bill to ensure the financial protection of women through a maintenance package by the state.

The Congress has said it is not against the legislation but certain provisions in the bill presented and has sought amendments.

Leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad has been asking who will take care of the woman after her husband faces penal action under the law.&nbsp;

Anticipating a debate on the contentious triple talaq bill, the Congress on Thursday issued a whip to all its MPs in Lok Sabha. According to sources, all Lok Sabha members have been asked to be present throughout the day for participation should the debate come up.

Anticipating a debate on the contentious triple talaq bill, the Congress on Thursday issued a whip to all its MPs in Lok Sabha. According to sources, all Lok Sabha members have been asked to be present throughout the day for participation should the debate come up. The Congress has maintained a cautious approach on the legislation banning instant triple talaq and criminalising the offence. Party leaders have argued against criminalisation and have also sought amendments to the bill to ensure the financial protection of women through a maintenance package by the state. The Congress has said it is not against the legislation but certain provisions in the bill presented and has sought amendments. Leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad has been asking who will take care of the woman after her husband faces penal action under the law.

Triple talaq bill: Congress issues whip to its Lok Sabha MPs

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-file-appeal-in-herald-house-eviction-case-sources-185857">The Congress</a> in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal.

TNCC President Su Thirunavukkarasar said the meetings would be held between January 2 and 12, 2019, in line with a decision arrived earlier in a party's district leaders meeting.

In a statement, he recalled Congress President Rahul Gandhi's demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe into the pricing issue relating to the French combat aircraft.

"The Congress has a big democratic responsibility to inform people about this mega scam," Thirunavukkarasar said.

The party also had the 'responsibility' to highlight the 'anti-people' approach of both the BJP-led Central government as well as the AIADMK rule in Tamil Nadu on many issues, he added.

With the Lok Sabha elections "due soon," the party's high command has issued directions to conduct such meetings.

Opposition parties led by the Congress have been attacking the Modi government over the deal, alleging that it was struck at an exorbitant price and benefited an Indian businessman at the cost of the government-run HAL.

However, the charges have been denied by the government.

The Supreme Court had on December 14 given the Narendra Modi government a clean chit on the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France and dismissed all petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the deal.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh had recently demanded in the Lok Sabha that Rahul Gandhi should apologise on the floor of the House for "misleading" the country on the Rafale jet deal issue.

The Congress in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal.

The Congress in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal. TNCC President Su Thirunavukkarasar said the meetings would be held between January 2 and 12, 2019, in line with a decision arrived earlier in a party's district leaders meeting. In a statement, he recalled Congress President Rahul Gandhi's demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe into the pricing issue relating to the French combat aircraft. "The Congress has a big democratic responsibility to inform people about this mega scam," Thirunavukkarasar said. The party also had the 'responsibility' to highlight the 'anti-people' approach of both the BJP-led Central government as well as the AIADMK rule in Tamil Nadu on many issues, he added. With the Lok Sabha elections "due soon," the party's high command has issued directions to conduct such meetings. Opposition parties led by the Congress have been attacking the Modi government over the deal, alleging that it was struck at an exorbitant price and benefited an Indian businessman at the cost of the government-run HAL. However, the charges have been denied by the government. The Supreme Court had on December 14 given the Narendra Modi government a clean chit on the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France and dismissed all petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the deal. Home Minister Rajnath Singh had recently demanded in the Lok Sabha that Rahul Gandhi should apologise on the floor of the House for "misleading" the country on the Rafale jet deal issue.

Congress announces meetings in Tamil Nadu on Rafale deal

Know how political parties are using Instagram to woo new voters

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture.&nbsp;

In an apparent reference to the issue, Adityanath said: "Some people here were speaking about Ram Janmabhoomi. Friends, whosoever does this job or whenever this job is done, this job will be done by us, no one else will be able to do so".&nbsp;

He, however, did not elaborate who would undertake the work.

Addressing a gathering here on the occasion of Yuva Kumbh, Adityanath said, "India is a nation, and it has only one culture. India has a thought (soch). Here languages, castes, regions, eating habits, dialects may be different.

From a political point of view, there can be differences in India, but the country has one culture, which is&nbsp;known as "Hindu culture. And, all of us should feel proud about it," he said.

Pointing towards Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the UP Chief Minister said, "Those who used to consider&nbsp;Ram and Krishna as myth, are making attempts to flash their janeu (sacred thread) and tell their gotra to mislead people (Jo log Ram aur Krsihna ko mithak maante rahe hai, unn logo dwaraa janeu dikhaakar aur gotra bataakar bharmaane kaa prayaas kiyaa jaa raha hai)."&nbsp;

Without naming anyone, Adityanath said, "We have the opportunity of understanding these conspiracies, which represent the negativities in the country and making an effort to push the country towards disintegration. Preparations will be made to hatch this conspiracy at every level, but it is important that we have to remain alert".

On employment generation in the state, the Chief Minister process is on to recruit 69,000 teachers and 50,000?policemen in the state, which will be completed in the initial month of 2019.&nbsp;

He said the One District, One Product scheme will generate jobs for 20 lakh youth in the next 5 years and that an investment climate was being created.

Adityanath along with UP Governor Ram Naik participated in the inaugural session of the Yuva Kumbh.

Adityanath also said, "Kumbh is the symbol of India's unity and integrity, and its spirit is that youth power should be used for nation building. The state government will make efforts to provide all possible facilities to pilgrims at the Kumbh. The state government will also establish grand statue of Bharadwaj Muni and Goddess Saraswati in Prayagraj."

Speaking on the occasion Ram Naik said, "The world has now started to realise the strength of India The 2019 Kumbh in Praygraj will introduce the world with India's cultural greatness."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture. In an apparent reference to the issue, Adityanath said: "Some people here were speaking about Ram Janmabhoomi. Friends, whosoever does this job or whenever this job is done, this job will be done by us, no one else will be able to do so". He, however, did not elaborate who would undertake the work. Addressing a gathering here on the occasion of Yuva Kumbh, Adityanath said, "India is a nation, and it has only one culture. India has a thought (soch). Here languages, castes, regions, eating habits, dialects may be different. From a political point of view, there can be differences in India, but the country has one culture, which is known as "Hindu culture. And, all of us should feel proud about it," he said. Pointing towards Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the UP Chief Minister said, "Those who used to consider Ram and Krishna as myth, are making attempts to flash their janeu (sacred thread) and tell their gotra to mislead people (Jo log Ram aur Krsihna ko mithak maante rahe hai, unn logo dwaraa janeu dikhaakar aur gotra bataakar bharmaane kaa prayaas kiyaa jaa raha hai)." Without naming anyone, Adityanath said, "We have the opportunity of understanding these conspiracies, which represent the negativities in the country and making an effort to push the country towards disintegration. Preparations will be made to hatch this conspiracy at every level, but it is important that we have to remain alert". On employment generation in the state, the Chief Minister process is on to recruit 69,000 teachers and 50,000?policemen in the state, which will be completed in the initial month of 2019. He said the One District, One Product scheme will generate jobs for 20 lakh youth in the next 5 years and that an investment climate was being created. Adityanath along with UP Governor Ram Naik participated in the inaugural session of the Yuva Kumbh. Adityanath also said, "Kumbh is the symbol of India's unity and integrity, and its spirit is that youth power should be used for nation building. The state government will make efforts to provide all possible facilities to pilgrims at the Kumbh. The state government will also establish grand statue of Bharadwaj Muni and Goddess Saraswati in Prayagraj." Speaking on the occasion Ram Naik said, "The world has now started to realise the strength of India The 2019 Kumbh in Praygraj will introduce the world with India's cultural greatness."

'Whenever Ram temple is built in Ayodhya it will be by us': Yogi Adityanath

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/calcutta-high-court-quashes-single-bench-order-that-allowed-bjps-rath-yatra-in-west-bengal-185687">quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra'</a> in West Bengal on Friday.

The division bench of the Calcutta High Court yesterday quashed the approval granted to the BJP for carrying out a Rath Yatra in the state.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/high-court-allows-bjp-rath-yatra-in-west-bengal-185502">Rath yatra&nbsp;was earlier allowed by a single bench order</a> of the Calcutta High Court.

The court on Thursday set aside Bengal government's denial of permission to the BJP to hold three 'rath yatra'&nbsp;in the state.

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BJP to move vacation bench of the Supreme Court challenging the order of the division bench of Calcutta High Court on BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/CktrTxraJn">pic.twitter.com/CktrTxraJn</a>
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BJP plans to run a "Save Democracy Rally" in the state ahead of the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal on Friday.

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal on Friday. The division bench of the Calcutta High Court yesterday quashed the approval granted to the BJP for carrying out a Rath Yatra in the state. The Rath yatra was earlier allowed by a single bench order of the Calcutta High Court. The court on Thursday set aside Bengal government's denial of permission to the BJP to hold three 'rath yatra' in the state. BJP to move vacation bench of the Supreme Court challenging the order of the division bench of Calcutta High Court on BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. pic.twitter.com/CktrTxraJn — ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2018 × BJP plans to run a "Save Democracy Rally" in the state ahead of the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

BJP to move SC bench challenging High Court's quashing of 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal 

Congress is expected to file an appeal in the Herald House eviction case, news agency ANI reported on Saturday citing sources.

The report has come a day after the Delhi High Court dismissed&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-herald-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-ajl-plea-against-centres-order-to-vacate-premises-185721">Associated Journals Ltd's ( </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-herald-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-ajl-plea-against-centres-order-to-vacate-premises-185721">AJL</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-herald-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-ajl-plea-against-centres-order-to-vacate-premises-185721">)&nbsp;petition&nbsp;</a>challenging the Centre's order to vacate its premises.

AJL is the publisher of Congress mouthpiece National Herald.

The Centre and Land and Development Office (L&amp;DO) had said in their order that no press has been functioning in the premises for at least past 10 years and it was being used only for commercial purposes in violation of the lease deed.

AJL had denied the allegations in the petition filed in the high court.

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Congress is expected to file an appeal in the Herald House eviction case, news agency ANI reported on Saturday citing sources. The report has come a day after the Delhi High Court dismissed Associated Journals Ltd's ( AJL) petition challenging the Centre's order to vacate its premises.

Congress is expected to file an appeal in the Herald House eviction case, news agency ANI reported on Saturday citing sources. The report has come a day after the Delhi High Court dismissed Associated Journals Ltd's ( AJL) petition challenging the Centre's order to vacate its premises. AJL is the publisher of Congress mouthpiece National Herald. The Centre and Land and Development Office (L&DO) had said in their order that no press has been functioning in the premises for at least past 10 years and it was being used only for commercial purposes in violation of the lease deed. AJL had denied the allegations in the petition filed in the high court.

Congress to file appeal in Herald House eviction case

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday expanded his six-month-old cabinet, inducting eight members from its coalition partner Congress.

Two ministers -- Ramesh Jarkiholi (Municipal Administration) and R Shankar (Forest and Environment) -- were dropped. The new ministers were administered the oath of office and secrecy at the Glass House at Raj Bhavan by Governor Vajubhai Vala amid tight security.

The new inductees are Satish Jarkiholi, M B Patil, C S Shivalli, M T B Nagaraj, E Tukaram, P T Parameshwar Naik, Rahim Khan and R B Thimmapur, with seven of them hailing from north Karnataka.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had given the go-ahead for the rejig Friday night after the state party leaders and AICC in-charge of Karnataka K C Venugopal met him and discussed the issue.

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Ramesh Jarkiholi, who has allegedly been hobnobbing with BJP leaders and not attending cabinet and party meetings, has been replaced by his brother Satish Jarkiholi.

Shankar is an Independent lawmaker who faced the axe over his reported reluctance to be an associate member of the Congress.&nbsp;

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday expanded his six-month-old cabinet, inducting eight members from its coalition partner Congress. Two ministers -- Ramesh Jarkiholi (Municipal Administration) and R Shankar (Forest and Environment) -- were dropped.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday expanded his six-month-old cabinet, inducting eight members from its coalition partner Congress. Two ministers -- Ramesh Jarkiholi (Municipal Administration) and R Shankar (Forest and Environment) -- were dropped. The new ministers were administered the oath of office and secrecy at the Glass House at Raj Bhavan by Governor Vajubhai Vala amid tight security. The new inductees are Satish Jarkiholi, M B Patil, C S Shivalli, M T B Nagaraj, E Tukaram, P T Parameshwar Naik, Rahim Khan and R B Thimmapur, with seven of them hailing from north Karnataka. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had given the go-ahead for the rejig Friday night after the state party leaders and AICC in-charge of Karnataka K C Venugopal met him and discussed the issue. Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala administers oath to new State cabinet ministers at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/zlFhh9cE36 — ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2018 × Ramesh Jarkiholi, who has allegedly been hobnobbing with BJP leaders and not attending cabinet and party meetings, has been replaced by his brother Satish Jarkiholi. Shankar is an Independent lawmaker who faced the axe over his reported reluctance to be an associate member of the Congress.

JD(S)-Congress Karnataka ministry expanded; 8 Congress ministers inducted

The US government began a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-shuts-down-at-midnight-as-house-adjourns-with-no-deal-185738">Christmas shutdown </a>early Saturday after Congress adjourned without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall.

Operations for several key <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/standoff-over-trump-wall-leaves-us-govt-5-days-away-from-shutdown-184833">agencies ceased at </a>12:01 am Saturday (5:01 GMT), despite last-ditch talks that continued on Capitol Hill between White House officials and congressional leaders in both parties.

Trump has dug in on his demand for $5 billion for construction of a wall on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal means federal funds for dozens of agencies lapsed when the clock struck midnight on Friday.

The shutdown is the third this year and it remained unclear how long it would last. Trump expressed hope late Friday night that it "will not last long," after earlier saying he was ready for just that.

The optics are bad, as 800,000 federal employees will be either furloughed or forced to work without pay in the run-up to the Christmas holiday.

But the prospect of a large portion of government workers going without paychecks was not enough to spur lawmakers or the president to action.

The House of Representatives adjourned just before 7:00 pm &nbsp;Friday, with no moves taken to avert a shutdown, and the Senate closed up shop an hour later.&nbsp;

Both are due back in session at noon Saturday.

About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 per cent unfunded as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State.

National parks will remain open, but most park staff will stay at home.&nbsp;

While most critical security functions will be operational, the effects of the budget wrangling and uncertainty have cast an air of chaos over the capital, which is also reeling from the resignation announcement Thursday by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

Wall Street ended its worst week in a decade with more bruising losses Friday.

And the inability of Washington to accomplish one of its most basic tasks — keeping the government up and running— has caused deep embarrassment and anxiety.

'Prepared' for shutdown&nbsp;

"It's up to the Democrats whether or not we have a shutdown tonight," Trump said earlier Friday, blaming political opponents for the crisis.

"I hope we don't," the president added, but "we're totally prepared for a very long shutdown."

Senators told reporters that congressional leaders from both parties were negotiating behind the scenes with White House officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and incoming chief of staff Mick Mulvaney.

The power trio shuttled from one side of the Capitol to the other, seeking a breakthrough with Republicans and Democrats.&nbsp;

It did not come on Friday.

Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker.&nbsp;

"Now Republicans and Democrats both own the success or failure to fund government."

One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP.

But conservatives in the House would likely baulk at that figure.

"There's no agreement," Congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side.

"There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable."

Cornyn suggested the art of the deal was less about grandstanding and more about a logical compromise to break the impasse.

"The House is at five (billion dollars for border security), the Democrats are at zero," he said. "It doesn't sound like that's rocket science to come up with a figure."

'Hostage'

Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration.

It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign.

Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal.

"This #shutdown is brought to you by @POTUS &amp; @HouseGOP," Congresswoman Kathleen Rice tweeted. "Instead of passing the Senate's funding bill, they decided to hold this country hostage."

With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president sticks to his campaign promises, Trump doubled down on his wall.

The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding and $7.8 billion in disaster relief.

But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate.

Trump was scheduled to fly to Florida Friday for his Christmas break, but he postponed the trip to help salvage a deal.

The US government began a Christmas shutdown early Saturday after Congress adjourned without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall.

The US government began a Christmas shutdown early Saturday after Congress adjourned without passing a federal spending bill or addressing President Donald Trump's demand for money to build a border wall. Operations for several key agencies ceased at 12:01 am Saturday (5:01 GMT), despite last-ditch talks that continued on Capitol Hill between White House officials and congressional leaders in both parties. Trump has dug in on his demand for $5 billion for construction of a wall on the US border with Mexico. Democrats are staunchly opposed, and the absence of an elusive deal means federal funds for dozens of agencies lapsed when the clock struck midnight on Friday. The shutdown is the third this year and it remained unclear how long it would last. Trump expressed hope late Friday night that it "will not last long," after earlier saying he was ready for just that. The optics are bad, as 800,000 federal employees will be either furloughed or forced to work without pay in the run-up to the Christmas holiday. But the prospect of a large portion of government workers going without paychecks was not enough to spur lawmakers or the president to action. The House of Representatives adjourned just before 7:00 pm Friday, with no moves taken to avert a shutdown, and the Senate closed up shop an hour later. Both are due back in session at noon Saturday. About three-quarters of the government, including the military and the Department of Health and Human Services, is fully funded until the end of September 2019, leaving 25 per cent unfunded as of Saturday. Most NASA employees will be sent home, as will Commerce Department workers and many at the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Agriculture and State. National parks will remain open, but most park staff will stay at home. While most critical security functions will be operational, the effects of the budget wrangling and uncertainty have cast an air of chaos over the capital, which is also reeling from the resignation announcement Thursday by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. Wall Street ended its worst week in a decade with more bruising losses Friday. And the inability of Washington to accomplish one of its most basic tasks — keeping the government up and running— has caused deep embarrassment and anxiety. 'Prepared' for shutdown "It's up to the Democrats whether or not we have a shutdown tonight," Trump said earlier Friday, blaming political opponents for the crisis. "I hope we don't," the president added, but "we're totally prepared for a very long shutdown." Senators told reporters that congressional leaders from both parties were negotiating behind the scenes with White House officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and incoming chief of staff Mick Mulvaney. The power trio shuttled from one side of the Capitol to the other, seeking a breakthrough with Republicans and Democrats. It did not come on Friday. Should they eventually strike a deal, it could swiftly clear Congress and reach the president's desk, said Senate Republican Bob Corker. "Now Republicans and Democrats both own the success or failure to fund government." One focus of discussion was the $1.6 billion in border security funding that was a part of pending Senate legislation, number two Senate Republican John Cornyn told AFP. But conservatives in the House would likely baulk at that figure. "There's no agreement," Congressman Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of ultra-conservatives, told reporters as he left a closed-door meeting on the Capitol's Senate side. "There's a whole lot of numbers being thrown around," but a maximum $1.6 billion for border security "is not acceptable." Cornyn suggested the art of the deal was less about grandstanding and more about a logical compromise to break the impasse. "The House is at five (billion dollars for border security), the Democrats are at zero," he said. "It doesn't sound like that's rocket science to come up with a figure." 'Hostage' Trump reversed course Thursday and rejected a measure that had unanimously passed the Senate and was under House consideration. It would have extended government funding until February 8, but contained no money for a border wall, a pet project Trump has fought for since his presidential campaign. Democrats painted Trump as the Grinch who stole the year-end deal. "This #shutdown is brought to you by @POTUS & @HouseGOP," Congresswoman Kathleen Rice tweeted. "Instead of passing the Senate's funding bill, they decided to hold this country hostage." With lawmakers like Meadows and prominent conservative commentators demanding that the president sticks to his campaign promises, Trump doubled down on his wall. The House swiftly passed a bill that fulfilled the president's demands. It included $5.7 billion in wall funding and $7.8 billion in disaster relief. But it stalled at the first hurdle in the Senate. Trump was scheduled to fly to Florida Friday for his Christmas break, but he postponed the trip to help salvage a deal.

US government partially shuts as Congress, Trump fail to reach deal

A Delhi High Court on Friday dismissed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-sajjan-kumar-moves-high-court-to-seek-more-time-to-surrender-185458">Sajjan Kumar's plea seeking more time to surrender</a> which he filed yesterday. He is sentenced to life imprisonment in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

According to a report by PTI, the court dismissed the plea saying that it sees no ground for granting relief to Sajjan Kumar to surrender.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sajjan-kumar-resigns-from-congress-primary-membership-writes-to-rahul-gandhi-184982">former senior leader of Congress party, Sajjan Kumar </a>approached the Delhi High Court to extend his surrender time till January 30. He sought more time saying that he has to settle family affairs relating to children and property.

In his plea, Kumar has also said that he has the statutory right to file an appeal against the high court verdict for which he needs to engage senior advocates who are presently out of India on holiday as the Supreme Court is on vacations.

On Monday, the high court directed Sajjan Kumar to surrender before authorities by December 31.

The case relates to the killing of five Sikhs in Raj Nagar part-I area in Palam Colony in South West Delhi on November 1-2, 1984, and burning down of a Gurudwara in Raj Nagar part II during that period.

Kumar was convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for "remainder of his natural life" in the case by the high court on December 17 which had said the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency.

On Thursday, he also appeared before Patiala House Court amid tight security in another 1984 riots case for trial. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-sikh-riots-case-delhi-court-adjourns-sajjan-kumar-hearing-for-january-22-185423">court adjourned the matter for January 22</a> after his main counsel was unavailable.

The riots had broken out after the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, by her two Sikh bodyguards.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Delhi High Court on Friday dismissed Sajjan Kumar's plea seeking more time to surrender which he filed yesterday. He is sentenced to life imprisonment in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

A Delhi High Court on Friday dismissed Sajjan Kumar's plea seeking more time to surrender which he filed yesterday. He is sentenced to life imprisonment in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. According to a report by PTI, the court dismissed the plea saying that it sees no ground for granting relief to Sajjan Kumar to surrender. The former senior leader of Congress party, Sajjan Kumar approached the Delhi High Court to extend his surrender time till January 30. He sought more time saying that he has to settle family affairs relating to children and property. In his plea, Kumar has also said that he has the statutory right to file an appeal against the high court verdict for which he needs to engage senior advocates who are presently out of India on holiday as the Supreme Court is on vacations. On Monday, the high court directed Sajjan Kumar to surrender before authorities by December 31. The case relates to the killing of five Sikhs in Raj Nagar part-I area in Palam Colony in South West Delhi on November 1-2, 1984, and burning down of a Gurudwara in Raj Nagar part II during that period. Kumar was convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for "remainder of his natural life" in the case by the high court on December 17 which had said the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency. On Thursday, he also appeared before Patiala House Court amid tight security in another 1984 riots case for trial. The court adjourned the matter for January 22 after his main counsel was unavailable. The riots had broken out after the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, by her two Sikh bodyguards.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: No ground for granting relief to Sajjan Kumar, says High Court

The Delhi High Court on Friday ordered the immediate release of Sushil Kumar Sharma who was convicted in the 1995 Tandoor Murder case.

The former youth Congress leader killed his wife in 1995 after accusing her of indulging in an affair. He then allegedly cut her body into pieces and tried to burn it in a tandoor.

Sharma was sentenced to death by a lower court in 2003. His death sentence was upheld by the Delhi High Court in 2007.&nbsp;

In 2013 the sentence was relegated due to lack of evidence. The apex court had said that there was no evidence to prove that Sushil had chopped his wife's body into pieces and burnt it in a tandoor.

A Bench of Justices Siddharth Mridul and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal allowed the plea filed by Sharma seeking his release.

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Sharma who sought release from the jail cited his conduct and added that his death sentence was commuted by the Supreme Court because of lack of evidence.

His lawyer Amit Sahni had asked the court for the release and said Sharma was in the prison since 1995 and has already served the maximum prescribed sentence.

The Delhi High Court on Friday ordered the immediate release of Sushil Kumar Sharma who was convicted in the 1995 Tandoor Murder case. The former youth Congress leader killed his wife in 1995 after accusing her of indulging in an affair.

The Delhi High Court on Friday ordered the immediate release of Sushil Kumar Sharma who was convicted in the 1995 Tandoor Murder case. The former youth Congress leader killed his wife in 1995 after accusing her of indulging in an affair. He then allegedly cut her body into pieces and tried to burn it in a tandoor. Sharma was sentenced to death by a lower court in 2003. His death sentence was upheld by the Delhi High Court in 2007. In 2013 the sentence was relegated due to lack of evidence. The apex court had said that there was no evidence to prove that Sushil had chopped his wife's body into pieces and burnt it in a tandoor. A Bench of Justices Siddharth Mridul and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal allowed the plea filed by Sharma seeking his release. Delhi High Court orders the immediate release of 1995 Tandoor murder case convict Sushil Sharma. pic.twitter.com/byJYWRe1tv — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × Sharma who sought release from the jail cited his conduct and added that his death sentence was commuted by the Supreme Court because of lack of evidence. His lawyer Amit Sahni had asked the court for the release and said Sharma was in the prison since 1995 and has already served the maximum prescribed sentence.

High Court orders immediate release of Tandoor murder case convict Sushil Kumar Sharma

The opposition parties on Friday said the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-empowers-security-intelligence-agencies-for-mass-surveillance-185626">Home Ministry order authorising 10 Central agencies</a> to intercept, monitor, and decrypt "any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer"&nbsp;is unconstitutional and against fundamental rights.

The Congress, the CPI(M), the Samajwadi Party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Trinamool Congress spoke out against the order, which they said was issued on Thursday.&nbsp;

Congress leader Anand Sharma said the order was against the right to privacy, which was a fundamental right.

"The government has done it by stealth and we collectively oppose it. This gives unlimited powers to all these agencies to monitor every information that interests them and complete surveillance which is unacceptable in a democracy," he said.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav termed the order unconstitutional and said the present government should refrain from making such moves with just a few months left for the general elections.&nbsp;

"This government has only a few months left and it should not dig potholes for itself as a new government will be installed in the centre soon," he said.

TMC's Sukhendu Sekhar Roy said the move was 'draconian'&nbsp;while RJD's Manoj Jha said that it was a cause of concern for not just parliamentarians, but for every Indian.&nbsp;

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury voiced his opposition on Twitter.

"Why is every Indian being treated like a criminal? This order by a govt wanting to snoop on every citizen is unconstitutional and in breach of the telephone tapping guidelines, the Privacy Judgement and the Aadhaar judgement," he said.&nbsp;

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Why is every Indian being treated like a criminal? This order by a govt wanting to snoop on every citizen is unconstitutional and in breach of the telephone tapping guidelines, the Privacy Judgement and the Aadhaar judgement. <a href="https://t.co/vJXs6aycP0">https://t.co/vJXs6aycP0</a>
— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) <a href="https://twitter.com/SitaramYechury/status/1075965497827577856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the order, the subscriber or service provider or any person in charge of the computer resource will be bound to extend all facilities and technical assistance to the agencies. Failing to do so will invite seven-year imprisonment and fine.

The agencies are the Intelligence Bureau, Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Bureau of Investigation; National Investigation Agency, Cabinet Secretariat (R&amp;AW), Directorate of Signal Intelligence (For service areas of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, North-East and Assam only) and Commissioner of Police, Delhi.&nbsp;

The opposition parties on Friday said the Home Ministry order authorising 10 Central agencies to intercept, monitor, and decrypt "any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer" is unconstitutional and against fundamental rights.

The opposition parties on Friday said the Home Ministry order authorising 10 Central agencies to intercept, monitor, and decrypt "any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer" is unconstitutional and against fundamental rights. The Congress, the CPI(M), the Samajwadi Party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Trinamool Congress spoke out against the order, which they said was issued on Thursday. Congress leader Anand Sharma said the order was against the right to privacy, which was a fundamental right. "The government has done it by stealth and we collectively oppose it. This gives unlimited powers to all these agencies to monitor every information that interests them and complete surveillance which is unacceptable in a democracy," he said. Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav termed the order unconstitutional and said the present government should refrain from making such moves with just a few months left for the general elections. "This government has only a few months left and it should not dig potholes for itself as a new government will be installed in the centre soon," he said. TMC's Sukhendu Sekhar Roy said the move was 'draconian' while RJD's Manoj Jha said that it was a cause of concern for not just parliamentarians, but for every Indian. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury voiced his opposition on Twitter. "Why is every Indian being treated like a criminal? This order by a govt wanting to snoop on every citizen is unconstitutional and in breach of the telephone tapping guidelines, the Privacy Judgement and the Aadhaar judgement," he said. Why is every Indian being treated like a criminal? This order by a govt wanting to snoop on every citizen is unconstitutional and in breach of the telephone tapping guidelines, the Privacy Judgement and the Aadhaar judgement. https://t.co/vJXs6aycP0 — Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) December 21, 2018 × According to the order, the subscriber or service provider or any person in charge of the computer resource will be bound to extend all facilities and technical assistance to the agencies. Failing to do so will invite seven-year imprisonment and fine. The agencies are the Intelligence Bureau, Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Bureau of Investigation; National Investigation Agency, Cabinet Secretariat (R&AW), Directorate of Signal Intelligence (For service areas of Jammu & Kashmir, North-East and Assam only) and Commissioner of Police, Delhi.

Authorising agencies for mass surveillance unconstitutional: Opposition

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