The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month.

Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee. It also won five wards in neighbouring Kargil district, election officials said.

Six seats in the region have gone to independent candidates, while the result of only two seats is awaited, they said.&nbsp;

The Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency is represented by BJP's Thupstan Chhewang, but the Congress had won three of the four assembly segments in the parliamentary constituency in the state polls held in 2014. The other assembly segment is represented by an independent MLA.

In the 208 wards that went to polls in Kashmir division in the four-phased elections earlier this month, the Congress has won 70 wards so far followed by 53 wards by independents. The BJP has managed to win only 21 seats, while the Janata Dal (United) bagged one seat, the officials added. 
&nbsp;

The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month. Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee.

The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month. Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee. It also won five wards in neighbouring Kargil district, election officials said. Six seats in the region have gone to independent candidates, while the result of only two seats is awaited, they said. The Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency is represented by BJP's Thupstan Chhewang, but the Congress had won three of the four assembly segments in the parliamentary constituency in the state polls held in 2014. The other assembly segment is represented by an independent MLA. In the 208 wards that went to polls in Kashmir division in the four-phased elections earlier this month, the Congress has won 70 wards so far followed by 53 wards by independents. The BJP has managed to win only 21 seats, while the Janata Dal (United) bagged one seat, the officials added.

J&K polls: BJP fails to open account in Ladakh region

The Congress on Saturday won as many as 12 seats out of 21 in Baramulla and six in Uri out of 13 in the municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

The rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to bag any seat in Uri municipal committee and could only manage six seats in Baramulla.

In total, 52 civic bodies went to polls in four phases amid tight security arrangements in the state.

A total of 3372 nominations were filed for 1145 wards.

Covering 79 municipal bodies, 27 in the Valley did not go to polls owing either to the fact that there was no candidate or only one candidate had filed nominations for a particular ward.

The Congress and the BJP are the two national political parties battling for municipal authority in the state as the two major regional parties, the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Alliance (PDP), have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre`s stance on Articles 35A.

The Congress on Saturday won as many as 12 seats out of 21 in Baramulla and six in Uri out of 13 in the municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to bag any seat in Uri municipal committee and could only manage six seats in Baramulla.

The Congress on Saturday won as many as 12 seats out of 21 in Baramulla and six in Uri out of 13 in the municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to bag any seat in Uri municipal committee and could only manage six seats in Baramulla. In total, 52 civic bodies went to polls in four phases amid tight security arrangements in the state. A total of 3372 nominations were filed for 1145 wards. Covering 79 municipal bodies, 27 in the Valley did not go to polls owing either to the fact that there was no candidate or only one candidate had filed nominations for a particular ward. The Congress and the BJP are the two national political parties battling for municipal authority in the state as the two major regional parties, the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Alliance (PDP), have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre`s stance on Articles 35A.

J&K municipal polls: Congress wins maximum seats in Baramulla, Uri

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) polls, as the counting of votes for the Urban Local Bodies elections was going on in all the 10 districts of Jammu region on Saturday.

The counting of votes in the state's winter capital began at Government Polytechnic Institute in Bikram Chowk at 9 am. The results for JMC so far indicate an edge to the BJP over its rivals.

There are 521 wards in the 10 districts of Jammu, which went to polls in the first three phases of the four-phased ULB elections in the state, which concluded on October 16, recording a high voter turnout of 68.4 per cent in the electorate of nearly 6.44 lakh people.

Thirteen candidates were elected to different municipal wards unopposed, leaving a total of 2,137 candidates in the fray.

Of the 32 results declared for the 75-member JMC so far, the largest municipality in the state, the BJP has won 19 followed by independents (nine) and the Congress (four), officials said.

BJP had won 25 seats in the last municipal elections for the JMC in 2005, while the then ruling Congress had emerged victorious with 26 seats.

In 13 wards of Kishtwar Municipal Committee, officials said independents won 10 seats, while the Congress and the BJP won two and one seat, respectively.

Of the three municipal committees in Ramban, officials said results were declared for seven-member Batote Municipal Committee with BJP winning four, Congress one and independents two seats.

In Kathua district's Basohli, BJP won five seats while Congress and independents were successful in four wards each.

The results of six other municipal committees in the district are awaited, the officials said.

In Rajouri district's Sunderbani Municipal Committee, the BJP won with 10 of its candidates winning, while three seats went to independent candidates.

In Kalakote Municipal Committee, six independents and one Congress candidate registered wins, officials said.

Six BJP candidates won from Reasi Municipal Committee, which saw five independents and two Congress candidates registering their wins in the 13-member body, they said.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) polls, as the counting of votes for the Urban Local Bodies elections was going on in all the 10 districts of Jammu region on Saturday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) polls, as the counting of votes for the Urban Local Bodies elections was going on in all the 10 districts of Jammu region on Saturday. The counting of votes in the state's winter capital began at Government Polytechnic Institute in Bikram Chowk at 9 am. The results for JMC so far indicate an edge to the BJP over its rivals. There are 521 wards in the 10 districts of Jammu, which went to polls in the first three phases of the four-phased ULB elections in the state, which concluded on October 16, recording a high voter turnout of 68.4 per cent in the electorate of nearly 6.44 lakh people. Thirteen candidates were elected to different municipal wards unopposed, leaving a total of 2,137 candidates in the fray. Of the 32 results declared for the 75-member JMC so far, the largest municipality in the state, the BJP has won 19 followed by independents (nine) and the Congress (four), officials said. BJP had won 25 seats in the last municipal elections for the JMC in 2005, while the then ruling Congress had emerged victorious with 26 seats. In 13 wards of Kishtwar Municipal Committee, officials said independents won 10 seats, while the Congress and the BJP won two and one seat, respectively. Of the three municipal committees in Ramban, officials said results were declared for seven-member Batote Municipal Committee with BJP winning four, Congress one and independents two seats. In Kathua district's Basohli, BJP won five seats while Congress and independents were successful in four wards each. The results of six other municipal committees in the district are awaited, the officials said. In Rajouri district's Sunderbani Municipal Committee, the BJP won with 10 of its candidates winning, while three seats went to independent candidates. In Kalakote Municipal Committee, six independents and one Congress candidate registered wins, officials said. Six BJP candidates won from Reasi Municipal Committee, which saw five independents and two Congress candidates registering their wins in the 13-member body, they said.

BJP leading in Jammu Municipal Corporation elections, independents fare well in Kishtwar

The opposition Congress and BJP Friday hit out at the Left government in Kerala for allegedly extending support to bring<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-journalist-begins-climbing-sabarimala-hill-to-fulfill-her-professional-duty-172221"> women activists to Sabarimala temple</a>, hurting the sentiments of devotees.

They also alleged the police gave one of the women, who climbed to the hill shrine amid heavy security, their official uniform and helmet.

The two women, identified as a journalist from Hyderabad and a Kochi-based activist, trekked Sabarimala and reached a few metres away from the holy 18 steps with police escort but had to return due to massive protest by devotees.

Attacking the CPI(M)-led LDF government on the issue, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala asked whether the police gave security to the real devotees.

"Has the government taken to the shrine the real devotees? Is the entry of women into the shrine a commando operation? Is this the supreme court order?" he asked.

"The government has extended support to bring activists to Sabarimala, hurting the sentiments of Lord Ayyappa devotees," Chennithala said.

Earlier in the day, Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran admitted that one of the women who trekked to the shrine was an activist and made it clear that holy Sabarimala was not a place to show their strength and activism.

Referring to the massive protest at the temple complex by the devotees and the 'parikarmies', the assistants of the priests, Chennithala said the "illogical" steps taken by the government on the Sabarimala women entry issue had led to this situation.

He also reiterated the UDF stand that the Pinarayi Vijayan government showed "over-enthusiasm" and "hurry" to implement the apex court order permitting women of all age groups into the Lord Ayyappa temple.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-centre-asks-kerala-tamil-nadu-karnataka-govts-to-tighten-security-monitor-adverse-online-messages-172332">government</a> unilaterally moved forward on the matter without trying for a consensus among stakeholders, he said.

Chennithala also alleged that the BJP-RSS combine was trying to inflame communal passion over the matter.

Hitting out at the LDF government, BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai said the state authorities were trying to make Sabarimala a "clash zone".

The police escorted two women to the shrine by making one of them wear police uniform and a helmet, without considering the sentiments of the devotees, he alleged.

A large number of devotees blocked the young women and police team escorting them at Valiya Nadappandhal, the queue complex located a few metres away from the holy 'pathinettam padi' (the 18 sacred steps), leading to the sanctum sanctorum.

Tension was defused after the women agreed to return as the state government made it clear it did not want to take them to the Sannidhanam, the temple complex, by using force against the protesting devotees.&nbsp;

The opposition Congress and BJP Friday hit out at the Left government in Kerala for allegedly extending support to bring women activists to Sabarimala temple, hurting the sentiments of devotees.

The opposition Congress and BJP Friday hit out at the Left government in Kerala for allegedly extending support to bring women activists to Sabarimala temple, hurting the sentiments of devotees. They also alleged the police gave one of the women, who climbed to the hill shrine amid heavy security, their official uniform and helmet. The two women, identified as a journalist from Hyderabad and a Kochi-based activist, trekked Sabarimala and reached a few metres away from the holy 18 steps with police escort but had to return due to massive protest by devotees. Attacking the CPI(M)-led LDF government on the issue, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala asked whether the police gave security to the real devotees. "Has the government taken to the shrine the real devotees? Is the entry of women into the shrine a commando operation? Is this the supreme court order?" he asked. "The government has extended support to bring activists to Sabarimala, hurting the sentiments of Lord Ayyappa devotees," Chennithala said. Earlier in the day, Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran admitted that one of the women who trekked to the shrine was an activist and made it clear that holy Sabarimala was not a place to show their strength and activism. Referring to the massive protest at the temple complex by the devotees and the 'parikarmies', the assistants of the priests, Chennithala said the "illogical" steps taken by the government on the Sabarimala women entry issue had led to this situation. He also reiterated the UDF stand that the Pinarayi Vijayan government showed "over-enthusiasm" and "hurry" to implement the apex court order permitting women of all age groups into the Lord Ayyappa temple. The government unilaterally moved forward on the matter without trying for a consensus among stakeholders, he said. Chennithala also alleged that the BJP-RSS combine was trying to inflame communal passion over the matter. Hitting out at the LDF government, BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai said the state authorities were trying to make Sabarimala a "clash zone". The police escorted two women to the shrine by making one of them wear police uniform and a helmet, without considering the sentiments of the devotees, he alleged. A large number of devotees blocked the young women and police team escorting them at Valiya Nadappandhal, the queue complex located a few metres away from the holy 'pathinettam padi' (the 18 sacred steps), leading to the sanctum sanctorum. Tension was defused after the women agreed to return as the state government made it clear it did not want to take them to the Sannidhanam, the temple complex, by using force against the protesting devotees.

Congress, BJP flay Kerala government for bringing activists to Sabarimala

The Congress on Thursday released its first list of 12 candidates for the first phase of assembly elections in Chhattisgarh on November 12.

Seven sitting MLAs figure in the party's list for these 12 seats which lie in the Naxal-affected Bastar region.

Shankar Dhruwa, MLA of Kanker, has been denied the ticket this time.

The Central Election Committee of the party announced the names of 12 candidates in Delhi, Chhattisgarh Congress's communication wing head Shailesh Nitin Trivedi said.

Sitting MLAs who have been renominated from their seats are -- Kawasi Lakhma from Konta seat (reserved for Scheduled Tribe), Devti Karma from Dantewada (ST), Mohan Lal Markam from Kondagaon (ST), Santram Netam from Keshkal (ST), Manoj Singh Mandavi from Bhanupratppur (ST), Deepak Baij from Chitrakot (ST) and Lakheshwar Baghel from Bastar (ST).

Devti Karma is the wife of late Mahendra Karma, a former Leader of Opposition, who was a guiding force behind the Salwa Judum, a movement of anti-Naxal vigilante groups.

Mahendra Karma was among 29 people, including then state Congress chief Nandkumar Patel and former Union minister Vidyacharan Shukla, who were killed in the Naxal attack in Darbha area of Bastar district on May 25, 2013.

Former IAS officer Sishupal Sori, a member of the All India Adivasi Congress, has been fielded from Kanker seat, in place of the sitting MLA Shankar Dhruwa.

Chandan Kashyap has been fielded from Narayanpur (ST) and Anoop Nag from Antagarh seat (ST).

Vikram Shah Mandavi has been fielded from Bijapur (ST) and Rekhchand Jain from Jagdalpur, the only unreserved seat in the Bastar division.

In the 2013 Assembly polls, Vikram Shah Mandavi had lost to the BJP's Mahesh Gagda, the current state forest minister.

Rekhchand Jain had lost to BJP's Santosh Bafna in 2008 polls. Bafna is the currently the BJP MLA from Jagdalpur.

Elections to the 90-member Assembly will be held in two phases: November 12 and November 20.

The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts -- Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon.

The Congress is yet to declare candidates for the six seats in Rajnandgaon district.

The party's candidates for 72 seats in the second phase will be announced later.

The Congress is out of power in the state for 15 years.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is yet to come out with the list of its candidates. Party sources said it is expected to be released on October 20.

The Congress on Thursday released its first list of 12 candidates for the first phase of assembly elections in Chhattisgarh on November 12. Seven sitting MLAs figure in the party's list for these 12 seats which lie in the Naxal-affected Bastar region.

The Congress on Thursday released its first list of 12 candidates for the first phase of assembly elections in Chhattisgarh on November 12. Seven sitting MLAs figure in the party's list for these 12 seats which lie in the Naxal-affected Bastar region. Shankar Dhruwa, MLA of Kanker, has been denied the ticket this time. The Central Election Committee of the party announced the names of 12 candidates in Delhi, Chhattisgarh Congress's communication wing head Shailesh Nitin Trivedi said. Sitting MLAs who have been renominated from their seats are -- Kawasi Lakhma from Konta seat (reserved for Scheduled Tribe), Devti Karma from Dantewada (ST), Mohan Lal Markam from Kondagaon (ST), Santram Netam from Keshkal (ST), Manoj Singh Mandavi from Bhanupratppur (ST), Deepak Baij from Chitrakot (ST) and Lakheshwar Baghel from Bastar (ST). Devti Karma is the wife of late Mahendra Karma, a former Leader of Opposition, who was a guiding force behind the Salwa Judum, a movement of anti-Naxal vigilante groups. Mahendra Karma was among 29 people, including then state Congress chief Nandkumar Patel and former Union minister Vidyacharan Shukla, who were killed in the Naxal attack in Darbha area of Bastar district on May 25, 2013. Former IAS officer Sishupal Sori, a member of the All India Adivasi Congress, has been fielded from Kanker seat, in place of the sitting MLA Shankar Dhruwa. Chandan Kashyap has been fielded from Narayanpur (ST) and Anoop Nag from Antagarh seat (ST). Vikram Shah Mandavi has been fielded from Bijapur (ST) and Rekhchand Jain from Jagdalpur, the only unreserved seat in the Bastar division. In the 2013 Assembly polls, Vikram Shah Mandavi had lost to the BJP's Mahesh Gagda, the current state forest minister. Rekhchand Jain had lost to BJP's Santosh Bafna in 2008 polls. Bafna is the currently the BJP MLA from Jagdalpur. Elections to the 90-member Assembly will be held in two phases: November 12 and November 20. The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts -- Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon. The Congress is yet to declare candidates for the six seats in Rajnandgaon district. The party's candidates for 72 seats in the second phase will be announced later. The Congress is out of power in the state for 15 years. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is yet to come out with the list of its candidates. Party sources said it is expected to be released on October 20.

Congress releases first list of 12 candidate for first phase of Chhattisgarh polls

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically.

Azad reportedly made the comments at an event of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Lucknow on Wednesday, apparently to criticise the political climate in Uttar Pradesh under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the simple reason behind fewer people calling Azad for campaigning is the falling stock of the Congress.&nbsp;

For this Azad has invented the Hindu-Muslim angle, he added.

"These are not ordinary words. It is an abuse for the country's secular fabric and Hindus. It is yet another attempt by the Congress to demean and demoralise Hindus," Patra told reporters.

He also rejected Azad's allegation that the BJP is defaming the AMU and targeting Kashmiri students, saying if prayer meetings are held for terrorists then it will be condemned.

Three Kashmiri students of the AMU were suspended and booked for sedition last week for allegedly raising "anti-India" slogans and trying to hold a prayer meeting for Hizbul Mujahideen commander Manan Bashir Wani, who was killed in an encounter in north Kashmir.

The varsity revoked the suspension of two students on Tuesday.

Patra said Azad had earlier claimed that the Army kills more civilians in Kashmir than terrorists.

It seems he wants to campaign in Pakistan, the BJP spokesperson said.

He accused the opposition party of conspiring against Hindus and said its leaders have used terms like "Hindu Taliban", "Hindu Pakistan" and "Hindu terrorists" in the past.

Patra also demanded a response from Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress will never use such remarks to refer to any other community, he said.&nbsp;

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically.

The BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of "demeaning and demoralising" Hindus and termed as an "abuse" a reported remark by the opposition party's leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that the number of Hindu candidates inviting him for campaigning has reduced drastically. Azad reportedly made the comments at an event of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Lucknow on Wednesday, apparently to criticise the political climate in Uttar Pradesh under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the simple reason behind fewer people calling Azad for campaigning is the falling stock of the Congress. For this Azad has invented the Hindu-Muslim angle, he added. "These are not ordinary words. It is an abuse for the country's secular fabric and Hindus. It is yet another attempt by the Congress to demean and demoralise Hindus," Patra told reporters. He also rejected Azad's allegation that the BJP is defaming the AMU and targeting Kashmiri students, saying if prayer meetings are held for terrorists then it will be condemned. Three Kashmiri students of the AMU were suspended and booked for sedition last week for allegedly raising "anti-India" slogans and trying to hold a prayer meeting for Hizbul Mujahideen commander Manan Bashir Wani, who was killed in an encounter in north Kashmir. The varsity revoked the suspension of two students on Tuesday. Patra said Azad had earlier claimed that the Army kills more civilians in Kashmir than terrorists. It seems he wants to campaign in Pakistan, the BJP spokesperson said. He accused the opposition party of conspiring against Hindus and said its leaders have used terms like "Hindu Taliban", "Hindu Pakistan" and "Hindu terrorists" in the past. Patra also demanded a response from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The Congress will never use such remarks to refer to any other community, he said.

Azad's remarks at AMU event an 'abuse' for Hindus: BJP

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now.

While the Congress termed the resignation as "victory of truth", it asked whether the prime minister will dare to speak up now.

The Left parties said Akbar's resignation was a victory for the #MeToo movement and the protests carried out by them against the journalist-turned-politician.&nbsp;

The CPI and the women's wing of CPI-M, however, said Akbar should have resigned early and the action has come "too late".

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said this was insufficient and sought criminal proceedings against Akbar.

Congress leader Ragini Naik said the silence of Modi on the #MeToo movement is deafening, as she accused the government as being "misogynist" which has "deceived" those crores of women voters who placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014.

"Times is up Modi ji. The silence of PM Modi on #MeToo movement is deafening.&nbsp;

"The silence of Prime Minister Modi has deceived those crores of women voters who had placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014," she told reporters.

"Now that M J Akbar, who has been accused by no less than 36 women of misconduct and harassment, has finally resigned, will PM Modi dare to speak up," Naik asked.&nbsp;

"I think the Modi government was compelled to ask M J Akbar to resign from the Union ministry as the #MeToo movement gained momentum in the country. He should have resigned on the first day when his former colleagues made sexual harassment allegations against him," CPI general secretary Sudhakar Reddy said.&nbsp;

Slamming Akbar for the delay in tendering his resignation, he said, "It is too late".&nbsp;

CPI Secretary D Raja said, "The resignation can be called a moral victory for all those women who have suffered such sexual harassment".&nbsp;

He said the social atmosphere in the country was such that women can get the confidence to speak up against the sexual harassment faced by them.

The AAP Wednesday hailed the women who accused Akbar of "sexual harassment" and said his resignation "completely exposed" the 'Chaal, Charitra and Chehra' of the ruling BJP at the Centre.

Reacting to Akbar's resignation, AAP spokesperson Dilip Pandey said the action was "not sufficient" and demanded criminal proceedings against him.

Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said she saluted those women who stood on their charges against the minister bravely despite the "brazen" stance taken by the government.

"This resignation is a vindication of the power of truth. More strength to India's women," she said.

"The resignation of MoS External Affairs MJ Akbar after serious charges were levelled against him by senior women journalists who worked with him is a vindication of the power of truth even if it began with one brave person speaking up," she said.

Mahila Congress chief Sushmita Dev termed Akbar's stepping down as a "moral victory" for everyone and sought support for the #MeToo movement across party lines.

"M J Akbar's resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines," she tweeted.

"I admire the courage of @priyaramani &amp; all the victims who spoke out against sexual harassment &amp; abuse. @mjakbar s resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines. "

Naik said the Congress believes that the belated resignation of Akbar is a result of the persistent pressure put by women who have shared their horrific and uncomfortable stories.&nbsp;

It is also a vindication of the Congress party's unequivocal stand on the #MeToo movement, she said.

"We also think that it is a time for a fair trial so that justice prevails. This country has a rule of law and the Congress Party believes that any allegation levelled against anybody must pass this test of justice. We hope and wish that all the women fighting this tough battle would be heard and finally justice would be imparted," she said.&nbsp;

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now.

The Congress and the Left parties Wednesday hailed the resignation of union minister M J Akbar following charges of sexual harassment and dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak up now. While the Congress termed the resignation as "victory of truth", it asked whether the prime minister will dare to speak up now. The Left parties said Akbar's resignation was a victory for the #MeToo movement and the protests carried out by them against the journalist-turned-politician. The CPI and the women's wing of CPI-M, however, said Akbar should have resigned early and the action has come "too late". The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said this was insufficient and sought criminal proceedings against Akbar. Congress leader Ragini Naik said the silence of Modi on the #MeToo movement is deafening, as she accused the government as being "misogynist" which has "deceived" those crores of women voters who placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014. "Times is up Modi ji. The silence of PM Modi on #MeToo movement is deafening. "The silence of Prime Minister Modi has deceived those crores of women voters who had placed their faith, reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014," she told reporters. "Now that M J Akbar, who has been accused by no less than 36 women of misconduct and harassment, has finally resigned, will PM Modi dare to speak up," Naik asked. "I think the Modi government was compelled to ask M J Akbar to resign from the Union ministry as the #MeToo movement gained momentum in the country. He should have resigned on the first day when his former colleagues made sexual harassment allegations against him," CPI general secretary Sudhakar Reddy said. Slamming Akbar for the delay in tendering his resignation, he said, "It is too late". CPI Secretary D Raja said, "The resignation can be called a moral victory for all those women who have suffered such sexual harassment". He said the social atmosphere in the country was such that women can get the confidence to speak up against the sexual harassment faced by them. The AAP Wednesday hailed the women who accused Akbar of "sexual harassment" and said his resignation "completely exposed" the 'Chaal, Charitra and Chehra' of the ruling BJP at the Centre. Reacting to Akbar's resignation, AAP spokesperson Dilip Pandey said the action was "not sufficient" and demanded criminal proceedings against him. Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said she saluted those women who stood on their charges against the minister bravely despite the "brazen" stance taken by the government. "This resignation is a vindication of the power of truth. More strength to India's women," she said. "The resignation of MoS External Affairs MJ Akbar after serious charges were levelled against him by senior women journalists who worked with him is a vindication of the power of truth even if it began with one brave person speaking up," she said. Mahila Congress chief Sushmita Dev termed Akbar's stepping down as a "moral victory" for everyone and sought support for the #MeToo movement across party lines. "M J Akbar's resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines," she tweeted. "I admire the courage of @priyaramani & all the victims who spoke out against sexual harassment & abuse. @mjakbar s resignation is a moral victory for everyone. The defamation case can't change that. The #MeToo movement needs support across party lines. " Naik said the Congress believes that the belated resignation of Akbar is a result of the persistent pressure put by women who have shared their horrific and uncomfortable stories. It is also a vindication of the Congress party's unequivocal stand on the #MeToo movement, she said. "We also think that it is a time for a fair trial so that justice prevails. This country has a rule of law and the Congress Party believes that any allegation levelled against anybody must pass this test of justice. We hope and wish that all the women fighting this tough battle would be heard and finally justice would be imparted," she said.

Left says Akbar resignation has come 'too late', Congress dares PM to speak up

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a&nbsp;state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency.

The state&nbsp;however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma speaks with Tanwar about the BSP-INLD coalition and taking on the BJP in the assembly and general elections. Here are excerpts from the interview:&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
Kartikeya Sharma: Your state has neither had&nbsp;an AICC-in-charge nor have district and local-level committees been formed...

Ashok Tanwar: The committees will be formed in due time. There are many reasons for it and I do not want to go into them. Beyond the committees, the organisation has done well for itself. 
&nbsp; 
KS: Congress was talking about a&nbsp;mahagathbandhan&nbsp;against the BJP, and now there is a gathbandhan against the Congress in Haryana...

AT: It is an ineffective coalition. Chautala’s party refused to wear the headgear given by the BSP. Two non-compatible constituencies have come together. It will not succeed. On the other hand, BJP also does not want to face the electorate and it is for this reason by-elections have not taken place in Haryana. BJP has lost goodwill in the state. 
&nbsp; 
KS: There is no unity in your state. You have more leaders than workers...

AT: &nbsp;We have more workers than leaders. We have run a very good anti-government campaign. Our campaign has been door-to-door. Congress in Haryana has regained very quickly, which is unlike many other states. 
&nbsp; 
KS: Are you friends with Randeep Surjewala&nbsp;and Bhupinder Singh Hooda?

AT: I have a great equation with both of them. I do not have any personal fight with any of the leaders in the state. I expect good support from them. Our rallies have also done well. 
&nbsp; 
KS: What is the challenge before the Congress in the state?

AT:&nbsp;Most of the challenges have been met. We are preparing for elections as we feel that Haryana assembly elections can be held simultaneously with Lol Sabha elections in 2019. The organisational challenge&nbsp;has been met through intense campaigning against the incumbent government. 
&nbsp;

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency. The state however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

Ashok Tanwar is the PCC chief of Haryana, a state where the ruling BJP faces anti-incumbency. The state however has seen the emergence of a BSP-INLD coalition to take on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress. WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma speaks with Tanwar about the BSP-INLD coalition and taking on the BJP in the assembly and general elections. Here are excerpts from the interview: Kartikeya Sharma: Your state has neither had an AICC-in-charge nor have district and local-level committees been formed... Ashok Tanwar: The committees will be formed in due time. There are many reasons for it and I do not want to go into them. Beyond the committees, the organisation has done well for itself. KS: Congress was talking about a mahagathbandhan against the BJP, and now there is a gathbandhan against the Congress in Haryana... AT: It is an ineffective coalition. Chautala’s party refused to wear the headgear given by the BSP. Two non-compatible constituencies have come together. It will not succeed. On the other hand, BJP also does not want to face the electorate and it is for this reason by-elections have not taken place in Haryana. BJP has lost goodwill in the state. KS: There is no unity in your state. You have more leaders than workers... AT: We have more workers than leaders. We have run a very good anti-government campaign. Our campaign has been door-to-door. Congress in Haryana has regained very quickly, which is unlike many other states. KS: Are you friends with Randeep Surjewala and Bhupinder Singh Hooda? AT: I have a great equation with both of them. I do not have any personal fight with any of the leaders in the state. I expect good support from them. Our rallies have also done well. KS: What is the challenge before the Congress in the state? AT: Most of the challenges have been met. We are preparing for elections as we feel that Haryana assembly elections can be held simultaneously with Lol Sabha elections in 2019. The organisational challenge has been met through intense campaigning against the incumbent government.

INLD-BSP coalition will not work in Haryana: State Congress chief Ashok Tanwar to WION

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala.

The party announced the move at a press conference.

Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.&nbsp;

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state. Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala. The party announced the move at a press conference. Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.

Ahead of Rajasthan election, BJP MLA Manvendra Singh joins Congress

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday mimicked Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his rally in Madhya Pradesh and attacked him on various policies and alleged scams.&nbsp;

While addressing the people at Morena, he said: "When Modiji became the Prime Minister, he said, Mitron....don't make me PM, make me chowkidar. The chowkidar calls people 'Mitron' and to Anil Ambani, he calls Anil bhai."

Gandhi, who is currently in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh for a two-day rally has been attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over the Rafale deal and scams involving Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Congress President Rahul Gandhi mimics PM Modi at a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Morena. <a href="https://t.co/kTI8Trqpwm">pic.twitter.com/kTI8Trqpwm</a>
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He had made similar statements against Modi earlier, saying that he would address Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi as "bhai".&nbsp;

Gandhi visited a gurudwara in Gwalior on Tuesday on the second day of campaigning in Madhya Pradesh. He also met Congress cadres in the morning and later paid obeisance at the Data Bandi Chhor Gurudwara, located in the Gwalior Fort.

Gandhi had visited <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adivasis-dalits-minorities-are-exploited-under-bjp-rahul-gandhi-in-morena-169836">Madhya Pradesh</a> earlier this month as well where he said that Modi government made false promises of turning black money into white and that farmers, Adivasis, Dalits, and minorities are exploited under BJP.&nbsp;

Elections to the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly will be held on 28 November 2018 to elect members of the 230 constituencies.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday mimicked Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his rally in Madhya Pradesh and attacked him on various policies and alleged scams.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday mimicked Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his rally in Madhya Pradesh and attacked him on various policies and alleged scams. While addressing the people at Morena, he said: "When Modiji became the Prime Minister, he said, Mitron....don't make me PM, make me chowkidar. The chowkidar calls people 'Mitron' and to Anil Ambani, he calls Anil bhai." Gandhi, who is currently in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh for a two-day rally has been attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over the Rafale deal and scams involving Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya. #WATCH: Congress President Rahul Gandhi mimics PM Modi at a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Morena. pic.twitter.com/kTI8Trqpwm — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × He had made similar statements against Modi earlier, saying that he would address Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi as "bhai". Gandhi visited a gurudwara in Gwalior on Tuesday on the second day of campaigning in Madhya Pradesh. He also met Congress cadres in the morning and later paid obeisance at the Data Bandi Chhor Gurudwara, located in the Gwalior Fort. Gandhi had visited Madhya Pradesh earlier this month as well where he said that Modi government made false promises of turning black money into white and that farmers, Adivasis, Dalits, and minorities are exploited under BJP. Elections to the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly will be held on 28 November 2018 to elect members of the 230 constituencies.

Mitron: Rahul mimics Modi at MP rally; watch video

Dismissing ruling Telangana Rashtra samithi's (TRS) criticism that TDP was an "Andhra party," the state unit of the party has said it was founded by late N T&nbsp; Rama Rao in the city, in the heart of Telangana.

"Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was formed in the heart of Telangana by late NT Rama Rao. Soon after its formation, changes have come in political arena.Through TDP, many sections have found their way into assembly and parliament. Got (their) share in governance," TDP's Telangana unit president L Ramana told PTI.

Asserting that TDP had ushered in welfare and development, benefiting the poor, he said it has found a place in the hearts of the poor in Telangana as a party that belongs to them.

People feel that a rise in the living standards and a boost to welfare and development is possible with TDP, Ramana said.

TDP has allied with Congress, CPI and TJS to form a "grand alliance" for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana.

Asked about TRS criticism against TDP for allying with Congress as NT Rama Rao had formed the party on anti-Congress plank, Ramana said there has been a change in the policies and ideology of the Congress and also in circumstances since TDP was formed (in 1982).

Alleging that ruling TRS has led an even more undemocratic rule in Telangana (than Congress did when TDP was formed) and ignored the poor, he said TDP, Congress, CPI and Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS) have come together to defeat the "family rule" of TRS.

"The aim of the alliance is to work from a people's angle, to realise the aspirations of martyrs (those who sacrificed life in support of separate Telangana)," Ramana said.

"Though TDP is in opposition in Telangana for the third time, it is still strong on the back of its cadre strength (with substantial membership)", he claimed.

"We have (party) committees up to village level. It is only TDP in the state which has such strong (network). In the interest of development and seeking a democratic rule in Telangana, we have gone for grand alliance comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS. We will strive for victory and (I have) confidence that (grand alliance) government will come," he added.

TDP won 15 assembly segments (out of 119) and a Lok Sabha seat in Telangana in the 2014 elections.

However, 12 out of the 15 MLAs switched over to ruling TRS which has considerably weakened the party.

TDP maintains that its core strength of workers remained intact though leaders have deserted the party.

The partners of "grand alliance" are in talks to clinch a Common Minimum Programme and the seat-sharing among them, he noted.

Asked if the alliance of opposition parties would extend to Lok Sabha election as well, he said the parties have decided to move ahead with coordination and in a spirit of give and take, hoping that the spirit would continue among them.&nbsp;

Dismissing ruling Telangana Rashtra samithi's (TRS) criticism that TDP was an "Andhra party," the state unit of the party has said it was founded by late N T Rama Rao in the city, in the heart of Telangana.

Dismissing ruling Telangana Rashtra samithi's (TRS) criticism that TDP was an "Andhra party," the state unit of the party has said it was founded by late N T Rama Rao in the city, in the heart of Telangana. "Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was formed in the heart of Telangana by late NT Rama Rao. Soon after its formation, changes have come in political arena.Through TDP, many sections have found their way into assembly and parliament. Got (their) share in governance," TDP's Telangana unit president L Ramana told PTI. Asserting that TDP had ushered in welfare and development, benefiting the poor, he said it has found a place in the hearts of the poor in Telangana as a party that belongs to them. People feel that a rise in the living standards and a boost to welfare and development is possible with TDP, Ramana said. TDP has allied with Congress, CPI and TJS to form a "grand alliance" for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana. Asked about TRS criticism against TDP for allying with Congress as NT Rama Rao had formed the party on anti-Congress plank, Ramana said there has been a change in the policies and ideology of the Congress and also in circumstances since TDP was formed (in 1982). Alleging that ruling TRS has led an even more undemocratic rule in Telangana (than Congress did when TDP was formed) and ignored the poor, he said TDP, Congress, CPI and Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS) have come together to defeat the "family rule" of TRS. "The aim of the alliance is to work from a people's angle, to realise the aspirations of martyrs (those who sacrificed life in support of separate Telangana)," Ramana said. "Though TDP is in opposition in Telangana for the third time, it is still strong on the back of its cadre strength (with substantial membership)", he claimed. "We have (party) committees up to village level. It is only TDP in the state which has such strong (network). In the interest of development and seeking a democratic rule in Telangana, we have gone for grand alliance comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS. We will strive for victory and (I have) confidence that (grand alliance) government will come," he added. TDP won 15 assembly segments (out of 119) and a Lok Sabha seat in Telangana in the 2014 elections. However, 12 out of the 15 MLAs switched over to ruling TRS which has considerably weakened the party. TDP maintains that its core strength of workers remained intact though leaders have deserted the party. The partners of "grand alliance" are in talks to clinch a Common Minimum Programme and the seat-sharing among them, he noted. Asked if the alliance of opposition parties would extend to Lok Sabha election as well, he said the parties have decided to move ahead with coordination and in a spirit of give and take, hoping that the spirit would continue among them.

TDP defends alliance with Congress for Telangana assembly polls

The national president of the NSUI &nbsp;(National Students' Union of India) — the Congress's student wing — has stepped down after allegations of sexual harassment against him.&nbsp;

Fairoz Khan's resignation has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/metoo-about-time-everyone-learns-to-treat-women-with-respect-says-rahul-gandhi-171065">accepted by Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a>.&nbsp;

PTI reported that Khan submitted his resignation on Monday.

It added that the party had set up a three-member committee to look into the matter after a woman levelled charges of sexual harassment against Khan.&nbsp;

PTI added that the woman, a Congress worker, had also lodged a complaint against Khan at Parliament Stree police station.&nbsp;

She said in her complaint, PTI reported, that she feared for her life.&nbsp;

The national president of the NSUI (National Students' Union of India) — the Congress's student wing — has stepped down after allegations of sexual harassment against him.

The national president of the NSUI (National Students' Union of India) — the Congress's student wing — has stepped down after allegations of sexual harassment against him. Fairoz Khan's resignation has been accepted by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. PTI reported that Khan submitted his resignation on Monday. It added that the party had set up a three-member committee to look into the matter after a woman levelled charges of sexual harassment against Khan. PTI added that the woman, a Congress worker, had also lodged a complaint against Khan at Parliament Stree police station. She said in her complaint, PTI reported, that she feared for her life.

NSUI chief Fairoz Khan quits after #MeToo charges, Rahul Gandhi accepts resignation

In a major setback to the Congress in Goa, two of its legislators resigned Tuesday as members of the state Assembly, reducing the party's strength from 16 to 14 in the 40-member House.

Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte, who went to Delhi late last night, faxed their resignation letters to Speaker Pramod Sawant and are set to join the BJP.

With their resignation, the Congress ceases to be the single largest party in the Assembly whose effective strength now stands reduced to 38.

The development assumes further significance as it comes at a time when Goa is witnessing hectic political activity against the backdrop of the ill-health of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar.

"Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte faxed their resignations as members of the Assembly to my office. We have received their resignations," Sawant told PTI.

The Speaker said the resignations have been accepted.

"I and Shirodkar have resigned as MLAs and also from the primary membership of the Congress. We have sent our resignations to the Congress party," Sopte told PTI over phone from Delhi.

Leader of Opposition in Goa Assembly Chandrakant Kavlekar expressed shock over the development.

"We came to know through media reports that two of our legislators are in touch with the BJP and might resign. We are shocked," he told reporters here.

Sopte and Shirodkar were part of the crucial Congress Legislature Party meeting held in the state earlier to discuss the political situation arising out of the ill-health of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, Kavlekar said.

Sopte, 54, represented the Mandrem Assembly constituency in North Goa district, while Shirodkar, 66, was elected from the Shiroda in South Goa district.

In the 40-member Goa Assembly, the Parrikar government has the support of 23 MLAs. These comprise 14 BJP MLAs, three each from the Goa Forward Party and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party as well as three Independents.

The Congress, with 16 seats, had emerged as the single largest party in the fructured verdict thrown up in the Assembly elections held in March last year.

However, it had failed to form the government as it could not muster the majority. Since, then it has been repeatedly laying claim to form the government, arguing that it was the single largest party.

Shirodkar won five times from the Shiroda constituency and was the Cabinet minister from 1985 to 2000.

Sopte had defeated BJP's Laxmikant Parsekar, who was the chief minister before the state polls last year.

He had won from the Pernem Assembly seat on the BJP ticket in 2007 but resigned from the party to join the Congress in 2012, when he was denied a ticket.

When the Pernem seat was reserved for a Scheduled Caste candidate, Sopte aspired to contest on BJP's ticket from Mandrem constituency in 2012 but the party fielded the then BJP Goa unit chief Laxmikant Parsekar from there.

Sopte had then fought the 2012 Assembly poll from Mandrem Congress ticket but lost to Parsekar.&nbsp;

In a major setback to the Congress in Goa, two of its legislators resigned Tuesday as members of the state Assembly, reducing the party's strength from 16 to 14 in the 40-member House.

In a major setback to the Congress in Goa, two of its legislators resigned Tuesday as members of the state Assembly, reducing the party's strength from 16 to 14 in the 40-member House. Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte, who went to Delhi late last night, faxed their resignation letters to Speaker Pramod Sawant and are set to join the BJP. With their resignation, the Congress ceases to be the single largest party in the Assembly whose effective strength now stands reduced to 38. The development assumes further significance as it comes at a time when Goa is witnessing hectic political activity against the backdrop of the ill-health of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. "Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte faxed their resignations as members of the Assembly to my office. We have received their resignations," Sawant told PTI. The Speaker said the resignations have been accepted. "I and Shirodkar have resigned as MLAs and also from the primary membership of the Congress. We have sent our resignations to the Congress party," Sopte told PTI over phone from Delhi. Leader of Opposition in Goa Assembly Chandrakant Kavlekar expressed shock over the development. "We came to know through media reports that two of our legislators are in touch with the BJP and might resign. We are shocked," he told reporters here. Sopte and Shirodkar were part of the crucial Congress Legislature Party meeting held in the state earlier to discuss the political situation arising out of the ill-health of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, Kavlekar said. Sopte, 54, represented the Mandrem Assembly constituency in North Goa district, while Shirodkar, 66, was elected from the Shiroda in South Goa district. In the 40-member Goa Assembly, the Parrikar government has the support of 23 MLAs. These comprise 14 BJP MLAs, three each from the Goa Forward Party and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party as well as three Independents. The Congress, with 16 seats, had emerged as the single largest party in the fructured verdict thrown up in the Assembly elections held in March last year. However, it had failed to form the government as it could not muster the majority. Since, then it has been repeatedly laying claim to form the government, arguing that it was the single largest party. Shirodkar won five times from the Shiroda constituency and was the Cabinet minister from 1985 to 2000. Sopte had defeated BJP's Laxmikant Parsekar, who was the chief minister before the state polls last year. He had won from the Pernem Assembly seat on the BJP ticket in 2007 but resigned from the party to join the Congress in 2012, when he was denied a ticket. When the Pernem seat was reserved for a Scheduled Caste candidate, Sopte aspired to contest on BJP's ticket from Mandrem constituency in 2012 but the party fielded the then BJP Goa unit chief Laxmikant Parsekar from there. Sopte had then fought the 2012 Assembly poll from Mandrem Congress ticket but lost to Parsekar.

Two Congress MLAs resign in Goa; party strength down to 14

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP.

After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly,&nbsp;Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl.

The resignation letter from the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee was addressed to the committee president, Lal Thanhawla, who is also the chief minister.

Speaker Hiphei has accepted Chakma's resignation from the House, Assembly secretary SR Zokhuma said.

Election to the 40-member House is scheduled to be held in the state on November 28.

Mizoram BJP unit president Prof John V Hluna told news agency PTI that Chakma would be joining the BJP today.

The Bharatiya Janata Party would field Chakma from Tuichawng seat in the assembly polls, Hluna said.

With Chakma's resignation, three Congress MLAs have resigned from the Assembly recently.<iframe data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

The present strength of the state legislature is 37 after resignation of the three Congress legislators. The ruling Congress has 31 legislators and the Mizo National Front six.

The Assembly Speaker on Monday had accepted the resignation of former home minister R Lalzirliana.

Lalzirliana, who resigned as the state home minister on September 14 was expelled as vice president of the state Pradesh Congress Committee and primary member of the Congress party indefinitely by the ruling Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee disciplinary action committee on September 17.

He formally joined the Mizo National Front yesterday.

Earlier, another Congress legislator Lalrinliana Sailo, former minister and member of the AICC and general secretary of the state PCC had also left the ruling party and joined the Mizo National Front.

Chakma had resigned from the council of ministers on August 21, 2017 in protest against discrimination of some students belonging to Chakma community for admission to medical colleges across the country, though they had qualified for MBBS seat under the state quota.

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP. After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly, Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl.

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP. After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly, Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl. The resignation letter from the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee was addressed to the committee president, Lal Thanhawla, who is also the chief minister. Speaker Hiphei has accepted Chakma's resignation from the House, Assembly secretary SR Zokhuma said. Election to the 40-member House is scheduled to be held in the state on November 28. Mizoram BJP unit president Prof John V Hluna told news agency PTI that Chakma would be joining the BJP today. The Bharatiya Janata Party would field Chakma from Tuichawng seat in the assembly polls, Hluna said. With Chakma's resignation, three Congress MLAs have resigned from the Assembly recently. The present strength of the state legislature is 37 after resignation of the three Congress legislators. The ruling Congress has 31 legislators and the Mizo National Front six. The Assembly Speaker on Monday had accepted the resignation of former home minister R Lalzirliana. Lalzirliana, who resigned as the state home minister on September 14 was expelled as vice president of the state Pradesh Congress Committee and primary member of the Congress party indefinitely by the ruling Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee disciplinary action committee on September 17. He formally joined the Mizo National Front yesterday. Earlier, another Congress legislator Lalrinliana Sailo, former minister and member of the AICC and general secretary of the state PCC had also left the ruling party and joined the Mizo National Front. Chakma had resigned from the council of ministers on August 21, 2017 in protest against discrimination of some students belonging to Chakma community for admission to medical colleges across the country, though they had qualified for MBBS seat under the state quota.

Ex-Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma resigns from Congress, to join BJP

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury Monday said the party's agenda in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls was to maximise the anti-BJP votes in the country and it will work to defeat the saffron party in states where it will be in a direct fight with the Congress.

The Left party would, however, have no alliance with the Congress, he added.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) will field a minimum number of candidates in states where there will be a direct contest between the Congress and the saffron party to maximise the anti-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) votes, Yechury told reporters here during his one-day visit to Odisha.

It will support regional parties which were not in the government and were opposed to the BJP, he said.

"Our agenda is to maximise the polling of anti-BJP votes in the coming elections. They (BJP) formed government at the Centre by securing only 31 per cent votes the last time, while 69 per cent of the electorate had opposed them. This time, we want to ensure that the secular parties come together to oppose the BJP," Yechury said.

Referring to Odisha, where the Assembly polls are also due next year, he said the Left party will not have a formal alliance with the Congress in the state and will also oppose the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), though it was not an ally of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

"We will have no alliance with the Congress and at the same time, the party will oppose both the BJP and the BJD in Odisha," Yechury said.

To questions on why the Left party was opposed to Naveen Patnaik's BJD, he said, "We have decided to oppose the BJP and its allies. Though the BJD is not an ally of the BJP, the regional party has unfortunately, all along the last four-and-a-half years, supported the NDA government on different issues."

The BJD's attitude towards the BJP had not been acceptable to secular parties, Yechury said. The regional party had supported the BJP on demonetisation, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the presidential and Rajya Sabha deputy chairman elections among other issues.

"We will also not go with the TDP in Andhra Pradesh and the TRS in Telangana, which were till in the recent past with the NDA. Since they were in the government, we had opposed their plans and policies. Now, during election time, we cannot support them," Yechury said.

In West Bengal, the parties that are constituents of the Left Front will oppose both the ruling Trinamool Congress, which had ended its 34-year-long hold over the state, and the BJP, he said, adding, "Our slogan for West Bengal is 'Modi Hatao Desh Bachao, Mamata Hatao Bengal Bachao'."

Yechury said in line with its agenda of defeating the BJP, the CPI(M) will support regional parties which were not in government and were opposed to the saffron party.

Citing examples, he said the Left party will support the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and other secular forces in Bihar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu and other like-minded parties in different states.

The CPI(M) will field a candidate only from the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha seat in Odisha in the 2019 general election and its state leadership will decide on the candidates and Assembly seats it will contest, he added.&nbsp;

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury Monday said the party's agenda in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls was to maximise the anti-BJP votes in the country and it will work to defeat the saffron party in states where it will be in a direct fight with the Congress.

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury Monday said the party's agenda in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls was to maximise the anti-BJP votes in the country and it will work to defeat the saffron party in states where it will be in a direct fight with the Congress. The Left party would, however, have no alliance with the Congress, he added. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) will field a minimum number of candidates in states where there will be a direct contest between the Congress and the saffron party to maximise the anti-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) votes, Yechury told reporters here during his one-day visit to Odisha. It will support regional parties which were not in the government and were opposed to the BJP, he said. "Our agenda is to maximise the polling of anti-BJP votes in the coming elections. They (BJP) formed government at the Centre by securing only 31 per cent votes the last time, while 69 per cent of the electorate had opposed them. This time, we want to ensure that the secular parties come together to oppose the BJP," Yechury said. Referring to Odisha, where the Assembly polls are also due next year, he said the Left party will not have a formal alliance with the Congress in the state and will also oppose the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), though it was not an ally of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). "We will have no alliance with the Congress and at the same time, the party will oppose both the BJP and the BJD in Odisha," Yechury said. To questions on why the Left party was opposed to Naveen Patnaik's BJD, he said, "We have decided to oppose the BJP and its allies. Though the BJD is not an ally of the BJP, the regional party has unfortunately, all along the last four-and-a-half years, supported the NDA government on different issues." The BJD's attitude towards the BJP had not been acceptable to secular parties, Yechury said. The regional party had supported the BJP on demonetisation, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the presidential and Rajya Sabha deputy chairman elections among other issues. "We will also not go with the TDP in Andhra Pradesh and the TRS in Telangana, which were till in the recent past with the NDA. Since they were in the government, we had opposed their plans and policies. Now, during election time, we cannot support them," Yechury said. In West Bengal, the parties that are constituents of the Left Front will oppose both the ruling Trinamool Congress, which had ended its 34-year-long hold over the state, and the BJP, he said, adding, "Our slogan for West Bengal is 'Modi Hatao Desh Bachao, Mamata Hatao Bengal Bachao'." Yechury said in line with its agenda of defeating the BJP, the CPI(M) will support regional parties which were not in government and were opposed to the saffron party. Citing examples, he said the Left party will support the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and other secular forces in Bihar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu and other like-minded parties in different states. The CPI(M) will field a candidate only from the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha seat in Odisha in the 2019 general election and its state leadership will decide on the candidates and Assembly seats it will contest, he added.

CPI(M) to work on maximising anti-BJP votes in Lok Sabha polls: Sitaram Yechury

Congress on Monday alleged that TRS chief and caretaker chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao manipulated government contracts, mostly irrigation projects, with two engineering firms bagging works worth a staggering Rs 77,000 crore.

The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has refuted the allegations.

Congress spokesperson S Jaipal Reddy alleged that one engineering company alone bagged contracts worth Rs 60,000 crore for irrigation and drinking water projects while another company got contracts of Rs 17,000 crore in irrigation sector.

"These two companies together got contract works worth Rs 77,000 crore in a short period of four years," the former union minister told reporters here.

"It was made possible because KCR (as Rao is popularly known as) manipulated, orchestrated the award of contracts to them (the two companies). In normal process, it is not possible," Reddy said

He said if Congress comes to power (wins the coming assembly polls in the state), one of its first tasks would be to launch a thorough inquiry into these contracts and to see that the guilty are punished.

"We will also see that the companies involved are also punished."

Reddy also alleged that there was over estimation of 30 per cent in cost of different projects and other contractors were frightened away and the whole thing (tender process) was rigged.

Asked if he has any documents to prove his allegations, Reddy said: "I have been a Parliamentarian and I don't make allegations in the air.

I want only one favour from KCR...Let him question the facts and figures. I throw a frontal challenge to the TRS government. I challenge them to reject the figures."

Reacting to Reddy's allegations of manipulation in awarding contracts, TRS MP B Vinod Kumar said, "not at all."

Most of the contracts (for irrigation projects) were awarded in the Congress-ruled erstwhile state of Andhra Pradesh under the then (late) Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, he alleged.

"During Rajasekhara Reddy's government these two contractors whom he (Jaipal Reddy) named were only contractors who were awarded the contracts.

All the contracts many of them were awarded during Rajasekhara Reddy's regime only except the barrages which are being constructed on Godavari river," Kumar said.

He said the project costs might have increased because of expanding or redesigning those projects "but they will also irrigate large areas."

On Reddy's challenge to the TRS government, Kumar said "let him challenge."&nbsp;

Congress on Monday alleged that TRS chief and caretaker chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao manipulated government contracts, mostly irrigation projects, with two engineering firms bagging works worth a staggering Rs 77,000 crore.

Congress on Monday alleged that TRS chief and caretaker chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao manipulated government contracts, mostly irrigation projects, with two engineering firms bagging works worth a staggering Rs 77,000 crore. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has refuted the allegations. Congress spokesperson S Jaipal Reddy alleged that one engineering company alone bagged contracts worth Rs 60,000 crore for irrigation and drinking water projects while another company got contracts of Rs 17,000 crore in irrigation sector. "These two companies together got contract works worth Rs 77,000 crore in a short period of four years," the former union minister told reporters here. "It was made possible because KCR (as Rao is popularly known as) manipulated, orchestrated the award of contracts to them (the two companies). In normal process, it is not possible," Reddy said He said if Congress comes to power (wins the coming assembly polls in the state), one of its first tasks would be to launch a thorough inquiry into these contracts and to see that the guilty are punished. "We will also see that the companies involved are also punished." Reddy also alleged that there was over estimation of 30 per cent in cost of different projects and other contractors were frightened away and the whole thing (tender process) was rigged. Asked if he has any documents to prove his allegations, Reddy said: "I have been a Parliamentarian and I don't make allegations in the air. I want only one favour from KCR...Let him question the facts and figures. I throw a frontal challenge to the TRS government. I challenge them to reject the figures." Reacting to Reddy's allegations of manipulation in awarding contracts, TRS MP B Vinod Kumar said, "not at all." Most of the contracts (for irrigation projects) were awarded in the Congress-ruled erstwhile state of Andhra Pradesh under the then (late) Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, he alleged. "During Rajasekhara Reddy's government these two contractors whom he (Jaipal Reddy) named were only contractors who were awarded the contracts. All the contracts many of them were awarded during Rajasekhara Reddy's regime only except the barrages which are being constructed on Godavari river," Kumar said. He said the project costs might have increased because of expanding or redesigning those projects "but they will also irrigate large areas." On Reddy's challenge to the TRS government, Kumar said "let him challenge."

KCR 'indulged in manipulation' in award of contracts:Congress

For good or for bad, the #MeToo movement is here to stay in India. The movement is being celebrated by many as a way to name and shame powerful men who in past got away with impunity because of the might they hold in the public sphere. 
 
Obviously, it is less about the legal recourse and more about naming and shaming the famous so that they stay away from the position of power. The movement has been able to check upon powerful men but has raised many moral and ethical questions. The movement has shown the fragility of gender politics in India. It has also proved that social conservatism in the Indian society has become a strong political constituency and any social reform, whether it flows from social media or courts, will have to face the wall of strong conservative networking.

Foremost, #MeToo has exposed powerful men who have exploited women. The end result is naming and shaming of an individual. It makes an individual a social outcast whereby he loses his position of power, reemployment and reintegration in the society. The modern law is about justice and not revenge. Most importantly, the modern law on crime does not end with punishment. It ends with reform and rehabilitation. It also includes men who have committed heinous crimes like rape and murder. So, it is absolutely right to call out men who have crushed spirits of young women, but it is also worthwhile to reflect as to where the naming and shaming must end. Is the perpetrator an outcast in perpetuity or will he get an avenue to mainstream in the society once his naming and shaming in public is over? This is the first issue which the movement will need to address in long run.

It will also have to differentiate between those making charges under real identities with those who have posted emails anonymously on social media. The movement will also have to differentiate between score-settling, indiscretion, harassment, proposition and sexual harassment in the workplace and non-work areas. This is not to belittle the importance of the #MeToo. The movement needs to ensure that it does not get hijacked by personal agendas.

The #MeToo movement also shows that gender as an axis of politics continues to remain weak in India. It gets divided on the issue of caste, liberal politics, urban-rural and class divide. The inability of any government of the day to pass quotas for women in Parliament is a representation of failure of gender as a political identity. Even today, gender politics remain limited to softer issues. The sexual violence in rural India is a weapon used by upper and dominant castes to express power. The domestic servants face sexual harassment because they are underprivileged and have no access to quick justice. Most of the women who have dared to make allegations without hiding their identity are those who have been able to break into male bastions in work areas.&nbsp;

It remains the tip of an iceberg. Millions of women in rural and many other sectors continue to face the sexual violence of worst kind and that focus must not be lost by gender movement.

Today it also runs the risk of being drowned under the narrative of salacious gossip about people around us instead of addressing the issue of misogyny and male gaze which sees women as a sexual object and refuses to accept competent women as boss.

The unfortunate part is that in India, it is also being reduced to a fight between the liberal section of the society and government of the present day. So, even if the charges are true they lose moral underpinning because those making the charge are considered to be part of a world which is known as the Liberal Order. It not only undercuts the importance of gender as a perspective but also undermines it in front of older identities like caste, community and class.

Lastly, it brings us to the question of what #MeToo has exposed apart from men who have been crossed boundaries frequently. It shows that social conservatives have moved to the centre of Indian politics whereas liberal tradition has become confined to some academic institutions and the judiciary. The liberal idea is rooted in the expression of freedom of an individual which stands above the predatory Right of Community and the state. It celebrates the power of an individual thought, liberty and its expression.

Today, It is getting subsumed under the narrative of victimisation of the majority community by liberals who are disconnected from the daily rhythm of Indian life. The response against it has also become electoral too. But that’s only one part of it. It is not without reason that adultery, Section 377, Aadhaar, Jallikattu and Sabarimala came under attack from the far right. Jallikatu was overruled by the legislative branch of the state and Sabrimala verdict is being challenged by the conservative constituency fueled by both BJP and Congress in the name of victimisation of Hindu custom and traditions. &nbsp;Section 377 and adultery were met with a mute response from the central government.

The mask of liberalness has been dropped by the far Right. Till Vajpayee, the right noises were made by the BJP. Today, social conservatism is a pampered political constituency which #MeToo will discover quickly. It was unpampered, but politically accommodated constituency within the Congress from its inception days.&nbsp;

Today social conservatism has received political legitimacy through electoral performance and for this reason, #MeToo, which is an expression of a liberal tradition will meet its toughest challenge as it would prioritise community, state, honour and tradition over individual voice. It has become a self-sufficient political constituency.

The irony is that this gender battle has exposed the weakness of the liberal politics in India.

The liberal constituency at the time of birth of the nation was supported by millions of Indians whereas far Right was opposed to massive social reforms. The liberal tradition even accommodated social conservatives in the Congress. Today, the far right has merged into social conservatives. The social conservatives have left Congress behind. Liberals have become elites disconnected from the society and social conservatives have become the moral beacon of traditional social order. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

For good or for bad, the #MeToo movement is here to stay in India. The movement is being celebrated by many as a way to name and shame powerful men who in past got away with impunity because of the might they hold in the public sphere.

For good or for bad, the #MeToo movement is here to stay in India. The movement is being celebrated by many as a way to name and shame powerful men who in past got away with impunity because of the might they hold in the public sphere. Obviously, it is less about the legal recourse and more about naming and shaming the famous so that they stay away from the position of power. The movement has been able to check upon powerful men but has raised many moral and ethical questions. The movement has shown the fragility of gender politics in India. It has also proved that social conservatism in the Indian society has become a strong political constituency and any social reform, whether it flows from social media or courts, will have to face the wall of strong conservative networking. Foremost, #MeToo has exposed powerful men who have exploited women. The end result is naming and shaming of an individual. It makes an individual a social outcast whereby he loses his position of power, reemployment and reintegration in the society. The modern law is about justice and not revenge. Most importantly, the modern law on crime does not end with punishment. It ends with reform and rehabilitation. It also includes men who have committed heinous crimes like rape and murder. So, it is absolutely right to call out men who have crushed spirits of young women, but it is also worthwhile to reflect as to where the naming and shaming must end. Is the perpetrator an outcast in perpetuity or will he get an avenue to mainstream in the society once his naming and shaming in public is over? This is the first issue which the movement will need to address in long run. It will also have to differentiate between those making charges under real identities with those who have posted emails anonymously on social media. The movement will also have to differentiate between score-settling, indiscretion, harassment, proposition and sexual harassment in the workplace and non-work areas. This is not to belittle the importance of the #MeToo. The movement needs to ensure that it does not get hijacked by personal agendas. The #MeToo movement also shows that gender as an axis of politics continues to remain weak in India. It gets divided on the issue of caste, liberal politics, urban-rural and class divide. The inability of any government of the day to pass quotas for women in Parliament is a representation of failure of gender as a political identity. Even today, gender politics remain limited to softer issues. The sexual violence in rural India is a weapon used by upper and dominant castes to express power. The domestic servants face sexual harassment because they are underprivileged and have no access to quick justice. Most of the women who have dared to make allegations without hiding their identity are those who have been able to break into male bastions in work areas. It remains the tip of an iceberg. Millions of women in rural and many other sectors continue to face the sexual violence of worst kind and that focus must not be lost by gender movement. Today it also runs the risk of being drowned under the narrative of salacious gossip about people around us instead of addressing the issue of misogyny and male gaze which sees women as a sexual object and refuses to accept competent women as boss. The unfortunate part is that in India, it is also being reduced to a fight between the liberal section of the society and government of the present day. So, even if the charges are true they lose moral underpinning because those making the charge are considered to be part of a world which is known as the Liberal Order. It not only undercuts the importance of gender as a perspective but also undermines it in front of older identities like caste, community and class. Lastly, it brings us to the question of what #MeToo has exposed apart from men who have been crossed boundaries frequently. It shows that social conservatives have moved to the centre of Indian politics whereas liberal tradition has become confined to some academic institutions and the judiciary. The liberal idea is rooted in the expression of freedom of an individual which stands above the predatory Right of Community and the state. It celebrates the power of an individual thought, liberty and its expression. Today, It is getting subsumed under the narrative of victimisation of the majority community by liberals who are disconnected from the daily rhythm of Indian life. The response against it has also become electoral too. But that’s only one part of it. It is not without reason that adultery, Section 377, Aadhaar, Jallikattu and Sabarimala came under attack from the far right. Jallikatu was overruled by the legislative branch of the state and Sabrimala verdict is being challenged by the conservative constituency fueled by both BJP and Congress in the name of victimisation of Hindu custom and traditions. Section 377 and adultery were met with a mute response from the central government. The mask of liberalness has been dropped by the far Right. Till Vajpayee, the right noises were made by the BJP. Today, social conservatism is a pampered political constituency which #MeToo will discover quickly. It was unpampered, but politically accommodated constituency within the Congress from its inception days. Today social conservatism has received political legitimacy through electoral performance and for this reason, #MeToo, which is an expression of a liberal tradition will meet its toughest challenge as it would prioritise community, state, honour and tradition over individual voice. It has become a self-sufficient political constituency. The irony is that this gender battle has exposed the weakness of the liberal politics in India. The liberal constituency at the time of birth of the nation was supported by millions of Indians whereas far Right was opposed to massive social reforms. The liberal tradition even accommodated social conservatives in the Congress. Today, the far right has merged into social conservatives. The social conservatives have left Congress behind. Liberals have become elites disconnected from the society and social conservatives have become the moral beacon of traditional social order. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The anatomy of #MeToo movement and Indian politics

Against the backdrop of Congress President Rahul Gandhi's interaction with present and past employees of HAL on the Rafale deal, the state-run aerospace company Saturday regretted 'politicisation' of its employees and termed it as a fad and regrettable development that would be detrimental to national security and the organisation.

A HAL statement, which did not specifically refer to Gandhi's interaction with the employees, came after the event, where the Congress president alleged that temples of modern India were being attacked and destroyed.

An official from the agency told PIT that the NADA government has extended full-fledged support (to HAL), having placed supply orders of over Rs 27,340 crore during the 2014-18 period by recognising its premier position.

Towards improvement and up gradation of infrastructure, including ramping up of production facilities, funding to the tune of Rs 7,800 crore was sanctioned during the period, it said.

The official also said HAL enjoys pride of place in the defence and aerospace industry sector and has made an immense contribution to the nation-building process.

"Today's attempt at the politicisation of the employees is a fad and regrettable development and will be detrimental to the interest of the organisation, its employees as well as national security,"the HAL official told PTI in the statement.

In the interaction with former and past employees, Gandhi had accused the Modi government of destroying the "strategic asset" state-run aerospace company HAL and told its employees that Rafale is their right.

Congress, which has been accusing the government of benefiting Reliance Defence Ltd of Anil Ambani from the deal, has also been demanding answers on why the state-run aerospace major HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime.

The party had been accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of snatching jobs of people of Karnataka by taking away the contract from HAL.

Gandhi had been saying that had HAL been selected in place of Reliance Defence, it could have generated employment to scores of unemployed youth in the state.

However, the BJP and Reliance Defence have dismissed all the allegations as false.

Modi had announced the procurement of 36 Rafale fighters after holding talks with then French President Francois Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris.

Against the backdrop of Congress President Rahul Gandhi's interaction with present and past employees of HAL on the Rafale deal, the state-run aerospace company Saturday regretted 'politicisation' of its employees and termed it as a fad and regrettable development that would be detrimental to national security and the organisation.

Against the backdrop of Congress President Rahul Gandhi's interaction with present and past employees of HAL on the Rafale deal, the state-run aerospace company Saturday regretted 'politicisation' of its employees and termed it as a fad and regrettable development that would be detrimental to national security and the organisation. A HAL statement, which did not specifically refer to Gandhi's interaction with the employees, came after the event, where the Congress president alleged that temples of modern India were being attacked and destroyed. An official from the agency told PIT that the NADA government has extended full-fledged support (to HAL), having placed supply orders of over Rs 27,340 crore during the 2014-18 period by recognising its premier position. Towards improvement and up gradation of infrastructure, including ramping up of production facilities, funding to the tune of Rs 7,800 crore was sanctioned during the period, it said. The official also said HAL enjoys pride of place in the defence and aerospace industry sector and has made an immense contribution to the nation-building process. "Today's attempt at the politicisation of the employees is a fad and regrettable development and will be detrimental to the interest of the organisation, its employees as well as national security,"the HAL official told PTI in the statement. In the interaction with former and past employees, Gandhi had accused the Modi government of destroying the "strategic asset" state-run aerospace company HAL and told its employees that Rafale is their right. Congress, which has been accusing the government of benefiting Reliance Defence Ltd of Anil Ambani from the deal, has also been demanding answers on why the state-run aerospace major HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime. The party had been accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of snatching jobs of people of Karnataka by taking away the contract from HAL. Gandhi had been saying that had HAL been selected in place of Reliance Defence, it could have generated employment to scores of unemployed youth in the state. However, the BJP and Reliance Defence have dismissed all the allegations as false. Modi had announced the procurement of 36 Rafale fighters after holding talks with then French President Francois Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris.

HAL regrets 'politicisation' of employees after interaction with Rahul Gandhi

The BJP in its manifesto for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, has proposed to regulate the sale of liquor, claiming that its unrestricted availability and consumption was leading to several social and law and order problems in the state.

In the manifesto, which would be formally released soon, the party proposes to restrict the sale of liquor to five days a week.

"Sale of liquor will be regulated to five days only. Every day, timings will be maintained.. After 6 (PM), no wine shop or bar will be open," BJP's manifesto committee chairman NVSS Prabhakar told PTI Sunday.

The TRS government in Telangana and the governments in undivided Andhra Pradesh have seen sale of liquor only as a source of income, Prabhakar, who was MLA in the recently dissolved Telangana Legislative Assembly, alleged.

The consumption of liquor is leading to various problems, including atrocities against women, suicides and law and order problems, he claimed.

The manifesto also promises cancellation of surcharge fares by state-run Road Transort Corporation (RTC) buses during fesival seasons and free transportation to those taking up 'Deeksha' (religious code of behaviour) for visiting temples, including Sabarimala, Prabhakar said.

Noting that the state government imposed heavy VAT on petrol and diesel, the manifesto proposes total waiver of the tax on petrol and diesel.

Consequently, the price of fuel per litre may come down by Rs 20, he said.

Youth who appear for competitive exams would be provided free online and offline coaching, he said.

Another important promise the provision of safe drinking water for Rs six per month per household.

"The provision of such minimum facilities should not be viewed like a profit-loss proposition. They should be seen as a source of income," Prabhakar said.

The BJP, which had five MLAs in the dissolved (119-member)assembly, hopes to substantially increase its strength in the coming polls.&nbsp;

The BJP in its manifesto for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, has proposed to regulate the sale of liquor, claiming that its unrestricted availability and consumption was leading to several social and law and order problems in the state.

The BJP in its manifesto for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana, has proposed to regulate the sale of liquor, claiming that its unrestricted availability and consumption was leading to several social and law and order problems in the state. In the manifesto, which would be formally released soon, the party proposes to restrict the sale of liquor to five days a week. "Sale of liquor will be regulated to five days only. Every day, timings will be maintained.. After 6 (PM), no wine shop or bar will be open," BJP's manifesto committee chairman NVSS Prabhakar told PTI Sunday. The TRS government in Telangana and the governments in undivided Andhra Pradesh have seen sale of liquor only as a source of income, Prabhakar, who was MLA in the recently dissolved Telangana Legislative Assembly, alleged. The consumption of liquor is leading to various problems, including atrocities against women, suicides and law and order problems, he claimed. The manifesto also promises cancellation of surcharge fares by state-run Road Transort Corporation (RTC) buses during fesival seasons and free transportation to those taking up 'Deeksha' (religious code of behaviour) for visiting temples, including Sabarimala, Prabhakar said. Noting that the state government imposed heavy VAT on petrol and diesel, the manifesto proposes total waiver of the tax on petrol and diesel. Consequently, the price of fuel per litre may come down by Rs 20, he said. Youth who appear for competitive exams would be provided free online and offline coaching, he said. Another important promise the provision of safe drinking water for Rs six per month per household. "The provision of such minimum facilities should not be viewed like a profit-loss proposition. They should be seen as a source of income," Prabhakar said. The BJP, which had five MLAs in the dissolved (119-member)assembly, hopes to substantially increase its strength in the coming polls.

Telangana polls: BJP manifesto proposes to regulate liquor sale

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it.

Questioning Modi's silence over the deal, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma claimed that only the prime minister was aware that the offset contracts would not be given to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

"It was his (Modi's) decision. Only he was privy to what he was going to do," Sharma said, addressing a press conference at the party office here.

It was expected that the prime minister would speak on this issue of national importance, but he continued to remain silent while making tall claims about his government, the Congress leader said.

"The prime minister has much to hide in the Rafale deal. His silence raises fundamental questions, because he is directly complicit and personally accountable for it," he alleged.

Claiming that the Rafale deal was the biggest scam in the history of the country, Sharma reiterated his party's demand for setting up a Joint Parliamentary Committee to look into it.

The former Union minister also questioned Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to France, during which she will take stock of the progress of French firm Dassault Aviation supplying 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force under the Rs 58,000-crore deal.

Sharma maintained that there was a hike in the price of the fighter aircraft India was buying from France and asserted that the prime minister needed to clear many doubts about the deal that had been raised.

He said more details of the deal would emerge if a forensic audit of it was carried out.

The Congress has been claiming that the aircraft will cost significantly more than what the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was negotiating.

The opposition party has also been demanding answers from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government as to why HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime.

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it.

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it. Questioning Modi's silence over the deal, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma claimed that only the prime minister was aware that the offset contracts would not be given to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "It was his (Modi's) decision. Only he was privy to what he was going to do," Sharma said, addressing a press conference at the party office here. It was expected that the prime minister would speak on this issue of national importance, but he continued to remain silent while making tall claims about his government, the Congress leader said. "The prime minister has much to hide in the Rafale deal. His silence raises fundamental questions, because he is directly complicit and personally accountable for it," he alleged. Claiming that the Rafale deal was the biggest scam in the history of the country, Sharma reiterated his party's demand for setting up a Joint Parliamentary Committee to look into it. The former Union minister also questioned Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to France, during which she will take stock of the progress of French firm Dassault Aviation supplying 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force under the Rs 58,000-crore deal. Sharma maintained that there was a hike in the price of the fighter aircraft India was buying from France and asserted that the prime minister needed to clear many doubts about the deal that had been raised. He said more details of the deal would emerge if a forensic audit of it was carried out. The Congress has been claiming that the aircraft will cost significantly more than what the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was negotiating. The opposition party has also been demanding answers from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government as to why HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime.

PM has much to hide about Rafale deal: Congress

Unfazed by the BSP's decision to not align with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said Sunday the party is "still in the driver's seat" and in touch with all "possible partners" in the poll-bound state.

Scindia, who is spearheading the Congress campaign in Madhya Pradesh, also said the entire state leadership and party cadre was "working cohesively" to chart out the party's plan to dislodge the BJP government after "14 years of misrule".

Asked if the BSP could cut into the Congress' vote share, he told PTI in an interview that: "I don't think so. Obviously, the alliance would have had its own benefits, but as things stand today, support for the Congress is running deep in Madhya Pradesh. The workers are motivated and the people are looking to us for change. So, we are definitely still in the driver's seat."

Replying to a query about a possible tie-up with the Samajwadi Party and the Gondwana Gantantra Party after Bahujan Samaj Party's decision to not align with the Congress in the state, Scindia said, "We are in touch with all possible partners -- our ultimate goal is to beat the Bharatiya Janata Party. We are not currently ruling out the possibility of an alliance."

His remarks come days after BSP chief Mayawati announced her party will not forge an alliance with the Congress "at any cost" for the upcoming Assembly polls in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

However, he said the general election next year will be a "different ball game altogether" and if state alliances don't work out, the possibilities still exist for a coalition in 2019.

Scindia said the party's "driving mantra" is 'Waqt hai badlaav ka' (It is time for change), and added that this is "not a slogan, this is a reality, a commitment to change". 
"We are not fighting this election on the Modi or Shivraj factor but the 'people factor'. The people of Madhya Pradesh have suffered from the BJP rule for 14 years. Everywhere we look, the people are exasperated and angry," the MP from Guna said.

Talking about the issues that the Congress will raise during the campaign, Scindia said the party will take the fight to the streets. "We are focusing on some key issues -- farmer distress across the state, complete breakdown of law and order, especially rising cases of crimes against women, unemployment, and massive corruption, be it Vyapam, e-tender or sand-mining."

The state will go to polls on November 28 and counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Asked what was different internally in the Congress organisation as compared to the past three elections and whether differences between senior leaders had been sorted,

Scindia said the party was united and there were regular meetings on key matters, including on overhauling the organisation, reviving and rejuvenating party cadres and strengthening the system at the district and block level.

"We understand that to fight the BJP, we will have to go down to the booth level and fight. Under Congress President Rahul Gandhi's uniting leadership, we are working as a single INC unit, coming together under the umbrella of a common vision and mission for the development of Madhya Pradesh," the 47-year-old leader said.&nbsp;

On opinion polls putting the Congress marginally ahead of the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Scindia said he believes his party is "in the lead".

The people are now looking to the Congress for change and are hopeful that the party will bring a wave of development, progress and honesty, the former Union minister said.

Asked if the Congress was bargaining hard as a result of which state-level alliances were failing and damaging prospects of a grand alliance in 2019, Scindia said the party was trying to build reasonable alliances that were mutually beneficial for all involved actors, and one that will be able to give the BJP a strong fight.

"For example, in Madhya Pradesh, there was clearly a mismatch between the BSP's vote share and the seats they were demanding&nbsp;obviously, that would not be strategically-beneficial for us. So, it is not about bargaining hard for the sake of debate, it is about reaching the most effective agreement," he said.&nbsp;

Unfazed by the BSP's decision to not align with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said Sunday the party is "still in the driver's seat" and in touch with all "possible partners" in the poll-bound state.

Unfazed by the BSP's decision to not align with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said Sunday the party is "still in the driver's seat" and in touch with all "possible partners" in the poll-bound state. Scindia, who is spearheading the Congress campaign in Madhya Pradesh, also said the entire state leadership and party cadre was "working cohesively" to chart out the party's plan to dislodge the BJP government after "14 years of misrule". Asked if the BSP could cut into the Congress' vote share, he told PTI in an interview that: "I don't think so. Obviously, the alliance would have had its own benefits, but as things stand today, support for the Congress is running deep in Madhya Pradesh. The workers are motivated and the people are looking to us for change. So, we are definitely still in the driver's seat." Replying to a query about a possible tie-up with the Samajwadi Party and the Gondwana Gantantra Party after Bahujan Samaj Party's decision to not align with the Congress in the state, Scindia said, "We are in touch with all possible partners -- our ultimate goal is to beat the Bharatiya Janata Party. We are not currently ruling out the possibility of an alliance." His remarks come days after BSP chief Mayawati announced her party will not forge an alliance with the Congress "at any cost" for the upcoming Assembly polls in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. However, he said the general election next year will be a "different ball game altogether" and if state alliances don't work out, the possibilities still exist for a coalition in 2019. Scindia said the party's "driving mantra" is 'Waqt hai badlaav ka' (It is time for change), and added that this is "not a slogan, this is a reality, a commitment to change". "We are not fighting this election on the Modi or Shivraj factor but the 'people factor'. The people of Madhya Pradesh have suffered from the BJP rule for 14 years. Everywhere we look, the people are exasperated and angry," the MP from Guna said. Talking about the issues that the Congress will raise during the campaign, Scindia said the party will take the fight to the streets. "We are focusing on some key issues -- farmer distress across the state, complete breakdown of law and order, especially rising cases of crimes against women, unemployment, and massive corruption, be it Vyapam, e-tender or sand-mining." The state will go to polls on November 28 and counting of votes will be held on December 11. Asked what was different internally in the Congress organisation as compared to the past three elections and whether differences between senior leaders had been sorted, Scindia said the party was united and there were regular meetings on key matters, including on overhauling the organisation, reviving and rejuvenating party cadres and strengthening the system at the district and block level. "We understand that to fight the BJP, we will have to go down to the booth level and fight. Under Congress President Rahul Gandhi's uniting leadership, we are working as a single INC unit, coming together under the umbrella of a common vision and mission for the development of Madhya Pradesh," the 47-year-old leader said. On opinion polls putting the Congress marginally ahead of the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Scindia said he believes his party is "in the lead". The people are now looking to the Congress for change and are hopeful that the party will bring a wave of development, progress and honesty, the former Union minister said. Asked if the Congress was bargaining hard as a result of which state-level alliances were failing and damaging prospects of a grand alliance in 2019, Scindia said the party was trying to build reasonable alliances that were mutually beneficial for all involved actors, and one that will be able to give the BJP a strong fight. "For example, in Madhya Pradesh, there was clearly a mismatch between the BSP's vote share and the seats they were demanding obviously, that would not be strategically-beneficial for us. So, it is not about bargaining hard for the sake of debate, it is about reaching the most effective agreement," he said.

Congress still in driver's seat in MP; in touch with parties for 'possible alliance': Scindia

As the most female ministers have avoided&nbsp;commenting on sexual allegations levelled against minister of state for external affairs, MJ Akbar,&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party's women wing chief for Madhya Pradesh, Lata Kelkar came out in defence of Akbar in a press conference in Bhopal as she said, "I don't consider women journalists to be so innocent that anyone can misuse them".

"I welcome this MeToo campaign but I don't consider women journalists to be so innocent that anyone can misuse them," Kelkar told reporters as she was asked about the charges against the minister.

In the media interaction, she was also asked whether Akbar should resign from his post to which she responded saying that it wasn't for her to say and can only be decided by him and the party command.

However, she also said that she would have asked for the resignations after reporters asked for her reaction&nbsp;if similar allegations were levelled against a Congress leader.

As the #MeToo campaign is gathering momentum in the country, some women journalists came out and accused MJ Akbar of sexually harassing them during his stint as editor in two newspapers.

Akbar, whose resignation from the government is being demanded by opposition political parties and various others, has however not reacted to the allegations so far.

Meanwhile, Congress president Rahul Gandhi came out in support of the #MeToo movement, saying it was about time that everyone learns to treat women with respect and dignity.

He also said he is happy that the space for those who don't treat women with respect and dignity is closing. 
&nbsp;

As the most female ministers have avoided commenting on sexual allegations levelled against minister of state for external affairs, MJ Akbar, Bharatiya Janata Party's women wing chief for Madhya Pradesh, Lata Kelkar came out in defence of Akbar in a press conference in Bhopal as she said, "I don't consider women journalists to be so innocent that anyone can misuse them".

As the most female ministers have avoided commenting on sexual allegations levelled against minister of state for external affairs, MJ Akbar, Bharatiya Janata Party's women wing chief for Madhya Pradesh, Lata Kelkar came out in defence of Akbar in a press conference in Bhopal as she said, "I don't consider women journalists to be so innocent that anyone can misuse them". "I welcome this MeToo campaign but I don't consider women journalists to be so innocent that anyone can misuse them," Kelkar told reporters as she was asked about the charges against the minister. In the media interaction, she was also asked whether Akbar should resign from his post to which she responded saying that it wasn't for her to say and can only be decided by him and the party command. However, she also said that she would have asked for the resignations after reporters asked for her reaction if similar allegations were levelled against a Congress leader. As the #MeToo campaign is gathering momentum in the country, some women journalists came out and accused MJ Akbar of sexually harassing them during his stint as editor in two newspapers. Akbar, whose resignation from the government is being demanded by opposition political parties and various others, has however not reacted to the allegations so far. Meanwhile, Congress president Rahul Gandhi came out in support of the #MeToo movement, saying it was about time that everyone learns to treat women with respect and dignity. He also said he is happy that the space for those who don't treat women with respect and dignity is closing.

Don't consider women journalists to be so innocent: MP BJP's women's wing chief on allegations against MoS Akbar

Apple Inc's top security officer told Congress on Sunday that it had found no sign of suspicious transmissions or other evidence that it had been penetrated in a sophisticated attack on its supply chain.

Apple Vice President for Information Security George Stathakopoulos wrote in a letter to the Senate and House commerce committees that the company had repeatedly investigated and found no evidence for the main points in a Bloomberg Businessweek article published on Thursday, including that chips inside servers sold to Apple by Super Micro Computer Inc allowed for backdoor transmissions to China.

"Apple’s proprietary security tools are continuously scanning for precisely this kind of outbound traffic, as it indicates the existence of malware or other malicious activity. Nothing was ever found," he wrote in the letter provided to Reuters.

Stathakopoulos repeated Apple's statements to the press that it never found malicious chips or vulnerabilities purposely planted in any server or been contacted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) about such concerns. He said he would be available to brief Congressional staff on the issue this week.

The letter follows statements on Friday by Britain's National Cyber Security Centre and on Saturday by the US&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security that those agencies have no reason to doubt denials from Apple and Amazon.com Inc that they had discovered backdoored chips.

Bloomberg said on Friday it stood by its story, which was based on 17 anonymous sources. Some allegations were based on fewer accounts or even a single unnamed source, Apple noted in its letter.

A Bloomberg spokeswoman did not immediately respond to questions sent on Sunday.

Apple Inc's top security officer told Congress on Sunday that it had found no sign of suspicious transmissions or other evidence that it had been penetrated in a sophisticated attack on its supply chain.

Apple Inc's top security officer told Congress on Sunday that it had found no sign of suspicious transmissions or other evidence that it had been penetrated in a sophisticated attack on its supply chain. Apple Vice President for Information Security George Stathakopoulos wrote in a letter to the Senate and House commerce committees that the company had repeatedly investigated and found no evidence for the main points in a Bloomberg Businessweek article published on Thursday, including that chips inside servers sold to Apple by Super Micro Computer Inc allowed for backdoor transmissions to China. "Apple’s proprietary security tools are continuously scanning for precisely this kind of outbound traffic, as it indicates the existence of malware or other malicious activity. Nothing was ever found," he wrote in the letter provided to Reuters. Stathakopoulos repeated Apple's statements to the press that it never found malicious chips or vulnerabilities purposely planted in any server or been contacted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) about such concerns. He said he would be available to brief Congressional staff on the issue this week. The letter follows statements on Friday by Britain's National Cyber Security Centre and on Saturday by the US Department of Homeland Security that those agencies have no reason to doubt denials from Apple and Amazon.com Inc that they had discovered backdoored chips. Bloomberg said on Friday it stood by its story, which was based on 17 anonymous sources. Some allegations were based on fewer accounts or even a single unnamed source, Apple noted in its letter. A Bloomberg spokeswoman did not immediately respond to questions sent on Sunday.

Apple tells Congress it found no signs of hacking attack

The Congress in Maharashtra has said the Rafale fighter deal will be a key election issue for the party and hit out at the NDA government over the rising prices of diesel and petrol.

Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said the party will fight the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha polls on Rafale and other issues of public interest.

The main opposition party has alleged irregularities in the purchase of Rafale fighter jets from France, a charge vehemently denied by the BJP-led government.

Addressing a public meeting at Bhaji Market ground here in North Maharashtra Sunday evening, he said the country's economic condition has become weak under the present government.

The former Union minister said the government has earned crores of rupees through the rising prices of fuel, but has not provided any substantial relief to common people.

The meeting was organised as part of the Congress' 'Jan Sangharsh Yatra' that arrived here Sunday.

The opposition party launched the state-wide yatra in August to highlight "failures" of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra.

Speaking on the occasion, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said the BJP-led government in Maharashtra has been unsuccessful in solving the problems being faced by the people of the state.

Ashok Chavan, a former chief minister, said the party will dislodge the ruling BJP from power in the next assembly polls in Maharashtra due in the second half of 2019.&nbsp;

The Congress in Maharashtra has said the Rafale fighter deal will be a key election issue for the party and hit out at the NDA government over the rising prices of diesel and petrol.

The Congress in Maharashtra has said the Rafale fighter deal will be a key election issue for the party and hit out at the NDA government over the rising prices of diesel and petrol. Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said the party will fight the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha polls on Rafale and other issues of public interest. The main opposition party has alleged irregularities in the purchase of Rafale fighter jets from France, a charge vehemently denied by the BJP-led government. Addressing a public meeting at Bhaji Market ground here in North Maharashtra Sunday evening, he said the country's economic condition has become weak under the present government. The former Union minister said the government has earned crores of rupees through the rising prices of fuel, but has not provided any substantial relief to common people. The meeting was organised as part of the Congress' 'Jan Sangharsh Yatra' that arrived here Sunday. The opposition party launched the state-wide yatra in August to highlight "failures" of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra. Speaking on the occasion, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said the BJP-led government in Maharashtra has been unsuccessful in solving the problems being faced by the people of the state. Ashok Chavan, a former chief minister, said the party will dislodge the ruling BJP from power in the next assembly polls in Maharashtra due in the second half of 2019.

Rafale deal to be a poll plank for Congress: Prithviraj Chavan

The Congress today said the collapse of its seat-sharing talks with the BSP for the upcoming state polls will not affect attempts to forge a "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) of opposition parties against the BJP for the Lok Sabha elections.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, however, asserted that the party's leadership had gone with its state units' assessment of the prevailing ground situation, and how many seats it could part with for likely allies.

It is believed that the alliance talks between the two parties fell through as the Congress was unwilling to cede as many seats in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan as sought by the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

The polls in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Telangana will be held between November 12 and December 7 in what may be a virtual semi-final to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will be taken up together in all the five states on December 11.

"State units are better aware of the ground situation than the central leadership. They took a decision and the central leadership accepted it," Khera told reporters.

He, however, added that this fallout should not be linked to talks for forging a grand alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. "It should not be confused with attempts to forge a 'mahagathbandhan' that is meant for the Lok Sabha polls," Khera said.

The Congress' bid to insulate attempts for a larger alliance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019 came after BSP supremo Mayawati's sharp attack at it following the announcement that she would not join hands with the main opposition party in the poll-bound states.

At a press conference, Khera also criticised Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik for his reported remarks blaming parties other than the BJP and the PDP for the fraught situation in the valley.

Governors appointed by this government, a reference to the Modi dispensation, often forget that they should not engage in partisan politics, especially in a sensitive state like this where he has to work to take everybody along, Mr Khera said.

This is not in the interests of Kashmir, he said.

The Congress today said the collapse of its seat-sharing talks with the BSP for the upcoming state polls will not affect attempts to forge a "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) of opposition parties against the BJP for the Lok Sabha elections.

The Congress today said the collapse of its seat-sharing talks with the BSP for the upcoming state polls will not affect attempts to forge a "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) of opposition parties against the BJP for the Lok Sabha elections. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, however, asserted that the party's leadership had gone with its state units' assessment of the prevailing ground situation, and how many seats it could part with for likely allies. It is believed that the alliance talks between the two parties fell through as the Congress was unwilling to cede as many seats in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan as sought by the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). The polls in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Telangana will be held between November 12 and December 7 in what may be a virtual semi-final to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Counting of votes will be taken up together in all the five states on December 11. "State units are better aware of the ground situation than the central leadership. They took a decision and the central leadership accepted it," Khera told reporters. He, however, added that this fallout should not be linked to talks for forging a grand alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. "It should not be confused with attempts to forge a 'mahagathbandhan' that is meant for the Lok Sabha polls," Khera said. The Congress' bid to insulate attempts for a larger alliance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019 came after BSP supremo Mayawati's sharp attack at it following the announcement that she would not join hands with the main opposition party in the poll-bound states. At a press conference, Khera also criticised Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik for his reported remarks blaming parties other than the BJP and the PDP for the fraught situation in the valley. Governors appointed by this government, a reference to the Modi dispensation, often forget that they should not engage in partisan politics, especially in a sensitive state like this where he has to work to take everybody along, Mr Khera said. This is not in the interests of Kashmir, he said.

Alliance flops in state polls won't affect 2019 coalition, says Congress

Both the ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress Saturday wanted a dialogue with the people concerned before implementing the Supreme Court verdict on entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple.

The parties' stand comes in the backdrop of mounting protest by devotees of Lord Ayyappa across the state.

Hundreds of devotees, mostly women, took part in the 'namajapa' (chanting the name of Lord Ayyappa marches in Kottayam and Malappuram districts against the LDF government's decision to implement the top court verdict without going for a review.

In a related development, minor violence marred the protest march taken out by activists of Yuva Morcha, the youth wing of BJP, to the house of

Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A Padmakumar at Aranumla in Pathanamthitta district, where police chased them away.

According to Yuva Morcha, about 10 people, including its state president Prakash Babu, were injured in the melee.

Addressing devotees who gathered at Changanassery in Kottayam braving heavy rains, Sabarimala tantri (head priest), Kandararu Rajeevaru said everyone should stand together to preserve the traditions, rituals and faith of the Lord Ayyappa shrine.

A section of Ayyappa devotees staged a dharna Saturday in front of the TDB headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, which manages the hill shrine.

Meanwhile, Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran said here that the government was ready to hold discussions with anybody on the matter.

Attacking the BJP and the Congress-led UDF over the issue, he said the opposition parties were trying to create "misunderstanding" among the faithful and "fishing in troubled waters".

He also said that the government's stand was to move ahead with mutual cooperation.

The ruling CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan told reporters in New Delhi that the apex court verdict should be implemented after discussions with everyone concerned.

"The consultation is for implementing the verdict. The government is seeking the support of persons concerned to implement it, but not by force," Balakrishnan said.

The Left party has no confusion over the issue, he said, adding that the move by 'vested interests' to turn the faithful against the government would be checked with the help of the believers themselves.

The CPI(M) Secretariat had Friday asked the government to hold discussions with those concerned on the matter.

Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Mullappally Ramachandran urged the Left government to convene an all-party meet to discuss the present development over the top court verdict.

He said his party would support the government if it files a review petition against the verdict, which lifted the restrictions imposed on the entry of women belonging to the age group of 10-50 in the hill shrine as part of its centuries-old tradition.

Ramachandran also said that the Congress is with the believers.

Protests over the entry of women in Sabarimala has gained momentum after the LDF government made it clear that it would not go in for a review of the Supreme Court verdict.

The opposition Congress and BJP had come out against the government stand and alleged that the Left government was trying to implement the court order in haste without taking into consideration the sentiments of the believers.

The Congress also alleged the BJP-RSS combine had adopted double standards on the issue and said if it was sincere in protecting the interests of believers, the NDA government at the Centre should come out with a legislation to overcome the verdict.

CMO sources here said members of the Pandalam royal family, the erstwhile rulers associated with the Sabarimala temple,have sought permission to meet Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is now in New Delhi, Monday to discuss the issue.

On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on the entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.

Both the ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress Saturday wanted a dialogue with the people concerned before implementing the Supreme Court verdict on entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple.

Both the ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress Saturday wanted a dialogue with the people concerned before implementing the Supreme Court verdict on entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple. The parties' stand comes in the backdrop of mounting protest by devotees of Lord Ayyappa across the state. Hundreds of devotees, mostly women, took part in the 'namajapa' (chanting the name of Lord Ayyappa marches in Kottayam and Malappuram districts against the LDF government's decision to implement the top court verdict without going for a review. In a related development, minor violence marred the protest march taken out by activists of Yuva Morcha, the youth wing of BJP, to the house of Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A Padmakumar at Aranumla in Pathanamthitta district, where police chased them away. According to Yuva Morcha, about 10 people, including its state president Prakash Babu, were injured in the melee. Addressing devotees who gathered at Changanassery in Kottayam braving heavy rains, Sabarimala tantri (head priest), Kandararu Rajeevaru said everyone should stand together to preserve the traditions, rituals and faith of the Lord Ayyappa shrine. A section of Ayyappa devotees staged a dharna Saturday in front of the TDB headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, which manages the hill shrine. Meanwhile, Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran said here that the government was ready to hold discussions with anybody on the matter. Attacking the BJP and the Congress-led UDF over the issue, he said the opposition parties were trying to create "misunderstanding" among the faithful and "fishing in troubled waters". He also said that the government's stand was to move ahead with mutual cooperation. The ruling CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan told reporters in New Delhi that the apex court verdict should be implemented after discussions with everyone concerned. "The consultation is for implementing the verdict. The government is seeking the support of persons concerned to implement it, but not by force," Balakrishnan said. The Left party has no confusion over the issue, he said, adding that the move by 'vested interests' to turn the faithful against the government would be checked with the help of the believers themselves. The CPI(M) Secretariat had Friday asked the government to hold discussions with those concerned on the matter. Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Mullappally Ramachandran urged the Left government to convene an all-party meet to discuss the present development over the top court verdict. He said his party would support the government if it files a review petition against the verdict, which lifted the restrictions imposed on the entry of women belonging to the age group of 10-50 in the hill shrine as part of its centuries-old tradition. Ramachandran also said that the Congress is with the believers. Protests over the entry of women in Sabarimala has gained momentum after the LDF government made it clear that it would not go in for a review of the Supreme Court verdict. The opposition Congress and BJP had come out against the government stand and alleged that the Left government was trying to implement the court order in haste without taking into consideration the sentiments of the believers. The Congress also alleged the BJP-RSS combine had adopted double standards on the issue and said if it was sincere in protecting the interests of believers, the NDA government at the Centre should come out with a legislation to overcome the verdict. CMO sources here said members of the Pandalam royal family, the erstwhile rulers associated with the Sabarimala temple,have sought permission to meet Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is now in New Delhi, Monday to discuss the issue. On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on the entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.

Sabarimala row: Protests mount; CPI(M), Congress want dialogue before implementing SC verdict

The Congress Sunday dismissed the Rs 2.5 a litre cut in petrol and diesel prices as “electoral lollipop” aimed at the five poll-bound states, and asked the Narendra Modi government to bring petroleum products under the GST regime. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera told reporters that oil prices have begun rising again since the cut was effected on Thursday, adding that it showed the government’s duplicity and hypocrisy.&nbsp;

He questioned the government’s claim of oil prices being deregulated, saying they depend upon the electoral calendar as they remained unchanged for 17 days during the Karnataka assembly polls, and a similar pattern was seen during the Gujarat polls.

“We reiterate our demand to bring in petroleum products under the ambit of GST so as to completely demolish this sheer hypocrisy of credit-seeking just before the electoral season,” he said. This government believes in tokenism for short-term applause, he said. After “ghar-ghar Modi” (Modi in every home) time for “bye-bye Modi” has come, and the government can bring a smile on people’s faces as it departs by bring petrol and diesel under the GST, he said.

Taking a dig at Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, whom he dubbed as a full-time blogger and part-time minister, Khera accused him of “lying” in his claim that the increase in the government’s revenue is on the account of an increase in tax base. Khera said oil companies have made over Rs 13 lakh crore, which is fuelling the government’s coffers. The government has used money in event management and publicity, he alleged, noting that it allocated merely Rs 2,000 crore for the Ayushmaan Bharat scheme, a health insurance scheme for the poor.

Since coming to power, the government has increase central excise duty on petrol by 211 per cent and on Diesel by 443 per cent, the Congress leader said. When the Congress demitted power the excise duty on petrol was merely Rs 9.23 a litre and has been raised by the Modi government to Rs 19.48 a litre. The excise duty on diesel has been raised from Rs 3.46 a litre to Rs 15.33 a litre, he said. Even the Value Added Tax (VAT) levied by state governments is among the highest where the BJP is in power, he said.

The Congress Sunday dismissed the Rs 2.5 a litre cut in petrol and diesel prices as “electoral lollipop” aimed at the five poll-bound states, and asked the Narendra Modi government to bring petroleum products under the GST regime.

The Congress Sunday dismissed the Rs 2.5 a litre cut in petrol and diesel prices as “electoral lollipop” aimed at the five poll-bound states, and asked the Narendra Modi government to bring petroleum products under the GST regime. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera told reporters that oil prices have begun rising again since the cut was effected on Thursday, adding that it showed the government’s duplicity and hypocrisy. He questioned the government’s claim of oil prices being deregulated, saying they depend upon the electoral calendar as they remained unchanged for 17 days during the Karnataka assembly polls, and a similar pattern was seen during the Gujarat polls. “We reiterate our demand to bring in petroleum products under the ambit of GST so as to completely demolish this sheer hypocrisy of credit-seeking just before the electoral season,” he said. This government believes in tokenism for short-term applause, he said. After “ghar-ghar Modi” (Modi in every home) time for “bye-bye Modi” has come, and the government can bring a smile on people’s faces as it departs by bring petrol and diesel under the GST, he said. Taking a dig at Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, whom he dubbed as a full-time blogger and part-time minister, Khera accused him of “lying” in his claim that the increase in the government’s revenue is on the account of an increase in tax base. Khera said oil companies have made over Rs 13 lakh crore, which is fuelling the government’s coffers. The government has used money in event management and publicity, he alleged, noting that it allocated merely Rs 2,000 crore for the Ayushmaan Bharat scheme, a health insurance scheme for the poor. Since coming to power, the government has increase central excise duty on petrol by 211 per cent and on Diesel by 443 per cent, the Congress leader said. When the Congress demitted power the excise duty on petrol was merely Rs 9.23 a litre and has been raised by the Modi government to Rs 19.48 a litre. The excise duty on diesel has been raised from Rs 3.46 a litre to Rs 15.33 a litre, he said. Even the Value Added Tax (VAT) levied by state governments is among the highest where the BJP is in power, he said.

Congress dubs fuel price cut electoral lollipop, demands oil products under GST

The Samajwadi Party said Saturday it will no longer wait for the Congress to decide on an alliance for Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, suggesting it preferred Mayawati's BSP.

The SP's snub to the Congress comes just days after Mayawati ruled out any BSP alliance with that party for Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, a move which could hit opposition efforts to form an anti-BJP front before the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

"The Congress has made us wait for too long. How much longer must we wait?" SP president Akhilesh Yadav said.

We will now consult the Gondwana Gantantra party with which we had an alliance, and also the BSP, for the coming Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh," Yadav told reporters on the sidelines of a party event here.

"Time is passing by and we cannot wait any longer," he said.

Reacting to Yadav's remark, the Congress said in New Delhi that it had not been planning an alliance with the SP in Madhya Pradesh in any case.

But Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala added there had been a possibility of an alliance with the BSP in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

On Wednesday, Mayawati said her Bahujan Samaj Party will contest the Assembly polls on its own or in alliance with a regional party.

She had said Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi wanted an alliance but some "selfish&nbsp;senior leaders in their party were out to foil any understanding.

Reacting to Mayawati's statement, Akhilesh Yadav had then urged the Congress to show large-heartedness by taking along other parties.

If there is any delay, there is a possibility that other parties may declare their candidates. After this, there will be a levelling of allegations that they colluded with the BJP," he had said.

Madhya Pradesh will go to the polls on November 28, the Election Commission announced Saturday.

The Samajwadi Party said Saturday it will no longer wait for the Congress to decide on an alliance for Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, suggesting it preferred Mayawati's BSP.

The Samajwadi Party said Saturday it will no longer wait for the Congress to decide on an alliance for Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, suggesting it preferred Mayawati's BSP. The SP's snub to the Congress comes just days after Mayawati ruled out any BSP alliance with that party for Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, a move which could hit opposition efforts to form an anti-BJP front before the 2019 Lok Sabha election. "The Congress has made us wait for too long. How much longer must we wait?" SP president Akhilesh Yadav said. We will now consult the Gondwana Gantantra party with which we had an alliance, and also the BSP, for the coming Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh," Yadav told reporters on the sidelines of a party event here. "Time is passing by and we cannot wait any longer," he said. Reacting to Yadav's remark, the Congress said in New Delhi that it had not been planning an alliance with the SP in Madhya Pradesh in any case. But Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala added there had been a possibility of an alliance with the BSP in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. On Wednesday, Mayawati said her Bahujan Samaj Party will contest the Assembly polls on its own or in alliance with a regional party. She had said Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi wanted an alliance but some "selfish senior leaders in their party were out to foil any understanding. Reacting to Mayawati's statement, Akhilesh Yadav had then urged the Congress to show large-heartedness by taking along other parties. If there is any delay, there is a possibility that other parties may declare their candidates. After this, there will be a levelling of allegations that they colluded with the BJP," he had said. Madhya Pradesh will go to the polls on November 28, the Election Commission announced Saturday.

Samajwadi Party can't wait any longer for tie-up with Congress in MP: Akhilesh

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said Saturday that he would speak with the BSP about a possible tie-up for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh elections.&nbsp;

"Congress has made us wait for long. We will hold talks with the BSP," ANI quoted Akhilesh as saying.&nbsp;

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Congress has made us wait for long. We will hold talks with BSP : Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav on possible alliance with BSP for upcoming assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh <a href="https://t.co/wFLgQoaO67">pic.twitter.com/wFLgQoaO67</a>
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Mayawati had recently announced that she would not be partnering with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh.

The state — along with Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Mizoram — is expected to go to the polls before December this year.&nbsp;

Mayawati had also snubbed the Congress in Chhattisgarh where she has tied up with Ajit Jogi's Janta Congress Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

Mayawati's, and now Akhilesh's announcements have been a setback for opposition unity before the 2019 general elections — which is the final goal.&nbsp;The opposition seems to believe the only way to take on the BJP in 2019 is by coming together and fielding only one opposition candidate in every seat against the ruling party.&nbsp;

That would make certain that the opposition vote is not split.&nbsp;The opposition has had some success with the strategy so far like in the Kairana (UP) Lok Sabha byelection in May this year.&nbsp;

But for now, Mayawati and perhaps Akhilesh have only said no to tie-ups for the assembly elections.&nbsp;

It remains to be seen what they will decide for the 2019 general election.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said Saturday that he would speak with the BSP about a possible tie-up for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh elections. "Congress has made us wait for long.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said Saturday that he would speak with the BSP about a possible tie-up for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh elections. "Congress has made us wait for long. We will hold talks with the BSP," ANI quoted Akhilesh as saying. Congress has made us wait for long. We will hold talks with BSP : Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav on possible alliance with BSP for upcoming assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh pic.twitter.com/wFLgQoaO67 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 6, 2018 × Mayawati had recently announced that she would not be partnering with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh. The state — along with Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Mizoram — is expected to go to the polls before December this year. Mayawati had also snubbed the Congress in Chhattisgarh where she has tied up with Ajit Jogi's Janta Congress Chhattisgarh. Mayawati's, and now Akhilesh's announcements have been a setback for opposition unity before the 2019 general elections — which is the final goal. The opposition seems to believe the only way to take on the BJP in 2019 is by coming together and fielding only one opposition candidate in every seat against the ruling party. That would make certain that the opposition vote is not split. The opposition has had some success with the strategy so far like in the Kairana (UP) Lok Sabha byelection in May this year. But for now, Mayawati and perhaps Akhilesh have only said no to tie-ups for the assembly elections. It remains to be seen what they will decide for the 2019 general election.

Cong has made us wait for long, will hold talks with BSP on alliance in MP: Akhilesh Yadav

Union Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre said Thursday the details relating to the Rafale deal are not revealed in the national interest.

The Congress Thursday urged the CAG to carry out a forensic audit of the "Rs 60,150-crore" Rafale fighter jet deal and bring all "facts" on record to enable Parliament to fix accountability for the alleged scam in the contract.

"Our basic price of Rafale aircraft is nine per cent less that that decided under the UPA government. When we purchase a raw Rafale aircraft, it is only for transportation but to convert it into a potent air defence aircraft, a lot of things need to be added," the minister said.

"So if we reveal what are these additional things to media, our enemy across the border will not need to deploy a secret service agency (to find out these details) and this why, in the national interest, the information is not being divulged," Bhamre told reporters here.

Refuting the allegations of irregularities in the deal, Bhamre said all norms and procedures were followed.

Talking about the depleted number of squadrons of the Indian Air Force, Bhamre said if India needs to fight on two fronts, the air force needs a total of 42 squadrons.

"Currently we have 33 squadrons. This operational criticality is there since 2001, but the Congress, despite knowing the country's requirement, did not take any decision (to purchase new aircraft) till 2013," he said.

When the Congress-led UPA did not negotiate any deal, on what basis it was saying that the price fixed then was lower, the minister asked.

"The Modi government has an impeccable record in the last four years, and that is why the opposition is frustrated. They just need an issue before the elections," he said.

The allegations levelled by the opposition are manufactured, baseless and not in the interest of the country, he said.

Earlier Thursday, Bhamre inaugurated Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Pune Cantonment. It is the first ITI under the Ministry of Defence situated in a cantonment area.&nbsp;

Union Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre said Thursday the details relating to the Rafale deal are not revealed in the national interest. The Congress Thursday urged the CAG to carry out a forensic audit of the "Rs 60,150-crore" Rafale fighter jet deal and bring all "facts" on record to enable Parliament to fix accountability for the alleged scam in the contract.

Union Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre said Thursday the details relating to the Rafale deal are not revealed in the national interest. The Congress Thursday urged the CAG to carry out a forensic audit of the "Rs 60,150-crore" Rafale fighter jet deal and bring all "facts" on record to enable Parliament to fix accountability for the alleged scam in the contract. "Our basic price of Rafale aircraft is nine per cent less that that decided under the UPA government. When we purchase a raw Rafale aircraft, it is only for transportation but to convert it into a potent air defence aircraft, a lot of things need to be added," the minister said. "So if we reveal what are these additional things to media, our enemy across the border will not need to deploy a secret service agency (to find out these details) and this why, in the national interest, the information is not being divulged," Bhamre told reporters here. Refuting the allegations of irregularities in the deal, Bhamre said all norms and procedures were followed. Talking about the depleted number of squadrons of the Indian Air Force, Bhamre said if India needs to fight on two fronts, the air force needs a total of 42 squadrons. "Currently we have 33 squadrons. This operational criticality is there since 2001, but the Congress, despite knowing the country's requirement, did not take any decision (to purchase new aircraft) till 2013," he said. When the Congress-led UPA did not negotiate any deal, on what basis it was saying that the price fixed then was lower, the minister asked. "The Modi government has an impeccable record in the last four years, and that is why the opposition is frustrated. They just need an issue before the elections," he said. The allegations levelled by the opposition are manufactured, baseless and not in the interest of the country, he said. Earlier Thursday, Bhamre inaugurated Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Pune Cantonment. It is the first ITI under the Ministry of Defence situated in a cantonment area.

Rafale deal info not being revealed in national interest: Minister 

The Congress Wednesday compared RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement on early construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya with the&nbsp;noise made by frogs during rains.

Accusing the&nbsp;RSS-BJP of sending Lord Ram to "exile" after every election,&nbsp;Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the BJP and the RSS were like "Kalyug's Kaikeyi" who remember Lord Ram four months before every election and then send him to exile after it, reported news agency PTI.

"During the season of rains and elections, a number of frogs make noise and that every noise does not become a reality. Lord Ram is everywhere and in the country," Surjewala was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

"At one time in Satyug, Kaikeyi had got Lord Ram banished to a 14-year exile. In today's Kalyug, 'Kaikeyi BJP and RSS' have sent Lord Ram to exile of 30 years.

"After every election, they send Lord Ram to exile and remember him four months before every election. What is the character of BJP and RSS? Ram in their speech and Nathuram in their thought. This is the truth of the BJP.," he said.

Surjewala said the Congress believes that the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue is pending before the Supreme Court and whatever verdict comes all sides should abide by it and the government should implement it.&nbsp;

The Congress Wednesday compared RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement on early construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya with the noise made by frogs during rains. Accusing the RSS-BJP of sending Lord Ram to "exile" after every election, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the BJP and the RSS were like "Kalyug's Kaikeyi" who remember Lord Ram four months before every election and then send him to exile after it, reported news agency PTI.

The Congress Wednesday compared RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement on early construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya with the noise made by frogs during rains. Accusing the RSS-BJP of sending Lord Ram to "exile" after every election, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the BJP and the RSS were like "Kalyug's Kaikeyi" who remember Lord Ram four months before every election and then send him to exile after it, reported news agency PTI. "During the season of rains and elections, a number of frogs make noise and that every noise does not become a reality. Lord Ram is everywhere and in the country," Surjewala was quoted as saying. "At one time in Satyug, Kaikeyi had got Lord Ram banished to a 14-year exile. In today's Kalyug, 'Kaikeyi BJP and RSS' have sent Lord Ram to exile of 30 years. "After every election, they send Lord Ram to exile and remember him four months before every election. What is the character of BJP and RSS? Ram in their speech and Nathuram in their thought. This is the truth of the BJP.," he said. Surjewala said the Congress believes that the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue is pending before the Supreme Court and whatever verdict comes all sides should abide by it and the government should implement it.

Congress compares Mohan Bhagwat's comment on Ram temple with 'frog's cry'

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