After the Congress, disgruntlement is brewing in coalition partner the JD(S) too as two senior ministers from the party are said to be miffed over the portfolios allotted to them following the recent cabinet expansion.

JD(S) sources said G T Deve Gowda, who has been allotted Higher Education, and C S Puttaraju, who got Minor Irrigation in the portfolio allocation last night, are unhappy about their ministries.

G T Deve Gowda, who emerged as a giant killer, defeating former chief minister Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysuru in the May 12 assembly polls, and Puttaraju, who vacated his Lok Sabha seat and won the Melukote assembly segment, were eyeing key portfolios, including Transport.

D C Thammanna, a relative of JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda, being given the Transport Department is also said to be one of the reasons for their discontent.

Meanwhile, supporters of both the ministers held protests in Mysuru and Mandya, the districts they hail from, demanding key portfolios for their leaders.

Reacting to the issue, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said he has seen reports about such disgruntlement only in the media and no one has expressed their dissatisfaction with him personally.

"Some people will have wish to work in certain departments, but in every department there is opportunity to work efficiently. We have to work efficiently.

"Can everyone be given the portfolio they wish for?" the chief minister asked, adding, "is there a better department than Higher Education and Minor Irrigation to work?"

On reported comments by G T Deve Gowda about him being given Higher Education when he was just studied till eighth standard, the chief minister said, "What have I studied? I'm working as the chief minister.

"Should I give Finance?"....There will be demand for certain ministries, but certain decisions are made internally in the party," he told reporters here, adding that such wishes of becoming a minister first and then wanting certain specific portfolios are common.

Kumaraswamy had last night allocated portfolios after a hard bargain between the coalition partners.

The portfolio allocation has been made in line with the power sharing agreement.

The development in the JD(S) has come even as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths.&nbsp;

On reported comments by G T Deve Gowda about him being given Higher Education when he was just studied till eighth standard, the chief minister said, "What have I studied? I'm working as the chief minister

After the Congress, disgruntlement is brewing in coalition partner the JD(S) too as two senior ministers from the party are said to be miffed over the portfolios allotted to them following the recent cabinet expansion. JD(S) sources said G T Deve Gowda, who has been allotted Higher Education, and C S Puttaraju, who got Minor Irrigation in the portfolio allocation last night, are unhappy about their ministries. G T Deve Gowda, who emerged as a giant killer, defeating former chief minister Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysuru in the May 12 assembly polls, and Puttaraju, who vacated his Lok Sabha seat and won the Melukote assembly segment, were eyeing key portfolios, including Transport. D C Thammanna, a relative of JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda, being given the Transport Department is also said to be one of the reasons for their discontent. Meanwhile, supporters of both the ministers held protests in Mysuru and Mandya, the districts they hail from, demanding key portfolios for their leaders. Reacting to the issue, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said he has seen reports about such disgruntlement only in the media and no one has expressed their dissatisfaction with him personally. "Some people will have wish to work in certain departments, but in every department there is opportunity to work efficiently. We have to work efficiently. "Can everyone be given the portfolio they wish for?" the chief minister asked, adding, "is there a better department than Higher Education and Minor Irrigation to work?" On reported comments by G T Deve Gowda about him being given Higher Education when he was just studied till eighth standard, the chief minister said, "What have I studied? I'm working as the chief minister. "Should I give Finance?"....There will be demand for certain ministries, but certain decisions are made internally in the party," he told reporters here, adding that such wishes of becoming a minister first and then wanting certain specific portfolios are common. Kumaraswamy had last night allocated portfolios after a hard bargain between the coalition partners. The portfolio allocation has been made in line with the power sharing agreement. The development in the JD(S) has come even as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths.

Now, JD(S) ministers unhappy over portfolios: Party sources

Mocking Rahul Gandhi as a "babua" (child), BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said the Congress chief keeps attacking the government for not doing one thing or another but should instead give an account of the works of his three generations who ruled India for decades.

Addressing workers of Jaipur Rural Lok Sabha constituency represented by Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Shah also took a jibe at the rival party over its "happiness" on the BJP's defeat in bypolls and said he considered himself lucky that he has got such an opposition which was satisfied with victory in a few by-elections even though it was losing power in many states.

"We lost eight bypolls, but snatched power from them (opposition) in 14 states," he said in New Delhi.

Giving an account of the Modi government's works, including building of toilets, distribution of LPG cyllinders and other welfare measures, he said, "Rahul Gandhi (says) this has not happened, that has not happened."

"'Arre babua', tell me brother what you have done in 70 years? Your three generations were in power for 70 years and if they had done all these works then it would not be our luck to provide people toilets and poor mothers gas cylinders," he said.

The opposition is disconnected from the ground, Shah said and, in an apparent attack on Gandhi, added that nobody knows when he goes on a vacation and comes back.

The temperature in Gujarat and Rajasthan soars to 50 degrees Celsius and it is difficult to tolerate it, he said wryly.

Shah asked BJP workers to work overtime to ensure the party's win in the Rajasthan assembly poll, which is due later this year along with elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh so that its winning streak after emerging as the single largest party in Karnataka continues.

Shah said the difference between other parties and the BJP was that their soul was their leader while workers were its soul.&nbsp;

The BJP has also worked to propagate its ideology and enhance the country's prestige, and not merely to get power, he said.

"We are lucky that the world's most popular leader in Narendra Modi is leading the country and under him it is marching to become 'vishwa guru'," he said.

The Modi government has done a lot of work to bring about a fundamental change in the lives of the people and positively impacted over 50 crore citizens, he said.

It was due to its works that the BJP won elections in so many states and is now ruling 20 of them.

The central government had built 7.5 crore toilets, distributed 4 crore gas cylinders, taken electricity to one crore homes after electrifying all villages, provided one crore houses and opened bank accounts of more than 30 crore people, the BJP president added.&nbsp;

Mocking Rahul Gandhi as a "babua" (child), BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said the Congress chief keeps attacking the government for not doing one thing or another but should instead give an account of the works of his three generations who ruled India for decades

Mocking Rahul Gandhi as a "babua" (child), BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said the Congress chief keeps attacking the government for not doing one thing or another but should instead give an account of the works of his three generations who ruled India for decades. Addressing workers of Jaipur Rural Lok Sabha constituency represented by Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Shah also took a jibe at the rival party over its "happiness" on the BJP's defeat in bypolls and said he considered himself lucky that he has got such an opposition which was satisfied with victory in a few by-elections even though it was losing power in many states. "We lost eight bypolls, but snatched power from them (opposition) in 14 states," he said in New Delhi. Giving an account of the Modi government's works, including building of toilets, distribution of LPG cyllinders and other welfare measures, he said, "Rahul Gandhi (says) this has not happened, that has not happened." "'Arre babua', tell me brother what you have done in 70 years? Your three generations were in power for 70 years and if they had done all these works then it would not be our luck to provide people toilets and poor mothers gas cylinders," he said. The opposition is disconnected from the ground, Shah said and, in an apparent attack on Gandhi, added that nobody knows when he goes on a vacation and comes back. The temperature in Gujarat and Rajasthan soars to 50 degrees Celsius and it is difficult to tolerate it, he said wryly. Shah asked BJP workers to work overtime to ensure the party's win in the Rajasthan assembly poll, which is due later this year along with elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh so that its winning streak after emerging as the single largest party in Karnataka continues. Shah said the difference between other parties and the BJP was that their soul was their leader while workers were its soul. The BJP has also worked to propagate its ideology and enhance the country's prestige, and not merely to get power, he said. "We are lucky that the world's most popular leader in Narendra Modi is leading the country and under him it is marching to become 'vishwa guru'," he said. The Modi government has done a lot of work to bring about a fundamental change in the lives of the people and positively impacted over 50 crore citizens, he said. It was due to its works that the BJP won elections in so many states and is now ruling 20 of them. The central government had built 7.5 crore toilets, distributed 4 crore gas cylinders, taken electricity to one crore homes after electrifying all villages, provided one crore houses and opened bank accounts of more than 30 crore people, the BJP president added.

Amit Shah mocks Rahul, says lucky that he got such opposition

BJP leader B S Yeddyurappa today claimed that several disgruntled leaders from the ruling Congress and JD(S) are eager to join his party.

Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths.

The former chief minister, who is also the state BJP chief, asked his partymen to work as a strong opposition and prepare for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

"Several disgruntled young leaders and leaders from Congress and JD(S) are eager to join the BJP," Yeddyurappa said.

Addressing partymen, he said, "It is our responsibility to induct those who are disgruntled with the JD(S) and Congress and their style of administration in every assembly segment, and are willing to join the BJP, thereby strengthening the party in every constituency."

The BJP leader said the party has "complete strength" with 104 members in the assembly and "let's work as a "strong opposition."

"How long this government will function is a different matter, but without aspiring for seat of power, let us all 104 members work as successful opposition to our good work."

As the assembly polls threw up hung assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party, the BJP had formed the government but conceded the numbers game with Yeddyurappa resigning on May 19 without facing the trust vote.

Following this, Congress-JD(S) post-poll coalition formed the government in the state, under the leadership of HD Kumaraswamy.

Calling upon BJP Yuva Morcha to strengthen the organisation at every assembly constituency level, Yeddyurappa said that "by doing this let us prepare ourselves for the Lok Sabha election."

With his government facing birth pangs of coalition politics, Kumaraswamy yesterday stepped in to check the disquiet among newly elected Congress lawmakers who were left out during the Cabinet expansion, but they remained defiant.

Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths

BJP leader B S Yeddyurappa today claimed that several disgruntled leaders from the ruling Congress and JD(S) are eager to join his party. Yeddyurappa's comments come as dissident activities of the MLAs intensified in the Congress over not getting ministerial berths. The former chief minister, who is also the state BJP chief, asked his partymen to work as a strong opposition and prepare for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "Several disgruntled young leaders and leaders from Congress and JD(S) are eager to join the BJP," Yeddyurappa said. Addressing partymen, he said, "It is our responsibility to induct those who are disgruntled with the JD(S) and Congress and their style of administration in every assembly segment, and are willing to join the BJP, thereby strengthening the party in every constituency." The BJP leader said the party has "complete strength" with 104 members in the assembly and "let's work as a "strong opposition." "How long this government will function is a different matter, but without aspiring for seat of power, let us all 104 members work as successful opposition to our good work." As the assembly polls threw up hung assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party, the BJP had formed the government but conceded the numbers game with Yeddyurappa resigning on May 19 without facing the trust vote. Following this, Congress-JD(S) post-poll coalition formed the government in the state, under the leadership of HD Kumaraswamy. Calling upon BJP Yuva Morcha to strengthen the organisation at every assembly constituency level, Yeddyurappa said that "by doing this let us prepare ourselves for the Lok Sabha election." With his government facing birth pangs of coalition politics, Kumaraswamy yesterday stepped in to check the disquiet among newly elected Congress lawmakers who were left out during the Cabinet expansion, but they remained defiant.

Several Congress, JDS MLAs willing to join BJP: Yeddyurappa

Senior Goa Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik died after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, party officials said.

Naik was taken to a private hospital in nearby Margao town from his residence here after he complained of uneasiness. At the hospital, he was declared brought dead, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) General Secretary Altinho Gomes told.

He was declared dead at&nbsp;7 am, he said.

The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son.

A multiple-time Member of Parliament, Naik was one of the tallest leaders of the Congress in Goa. Naik was elected to the Lok Sabha from the South Goa constituency in the 1984 general election.

He actively supported the demand for statehood to Goa which was fulfilled in 1987.

Naik represented Goa in the Rajya Sabha for two consecutive terms -- 2005-2011 and 2011-2017. However, in July 2017, he lost the election to the Upper House of Parliament to BJP candidate Vinay Tendulkar.

In March this year, Naik resigned as president of the GPCC to pave the way for the younger generation to take the reins of the party.

Naik took over as GPCC chief in July 2017, months after the Congress failed to form a government in the coastal state despite emerging as the single largest party.

He was replaced as the state unit chief by Girish Raya Chodankar in April.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, among other leaders, condoled the death of Naik.

Naidu said the ex-Congress MP was active in Parliament and made good contribution to debates in the House.

"I convey my heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Member of Parliament from Goa and former Goa Congress President.

"He was one of the most active MPs and made good contribution to parliamentary debates. "I pray for his eternal peace," Naidu said in a tweet.

Gandhi, on hearing the news of the demise, called up the family members of Naik and conveyed his condolences to them, Chodankar said.

Gandhi, who spoke to Naik's wife and son, hailed the role played by the Congress veteran in the battle for Goa's statehood.

"I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Goa Congress Chief, MP and senior Congress leader, who played an important role in the battle for Goa's statehood.

"My condolences to his family in their time of grief. May his soul rest in peace," the Congress chief tweeted.

Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said Naik was an important leader of the party in Goa.

"Shocked and saddened by the passing away of Shantaram Naik ji, a pillar of indomitable strength for Congress party in Goa.

"In this hour of grief, I express my solidarity with his family, friends and supporters and pray for the departed soul," Surjewala tweeted.

Chodankar said Naik was a mentor to the young Congressmen.

"It is a shocking news for us. We have lost a guide in the form of him. He had mentored so many youths and inspired them to join Congress party. It is a big loss for us," said Chodankar.

The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son

Senior Goa Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik died after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, party officials said. Naik was taken to a private hospital in nearby Margao town from his residence here after he complained of uneasiness. At the hospital, he was declared brought dead, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) General Secretary Altinho Gomes told. He was declared dead at 7 am, he said. The veteran Congressman, who also served as chief of the state unit of the party, was 72 and is survived by wife and a son. A multiple-time Member of Parliament, Naik was one of the tallest leaders of the Congress in Goa. Naik was elected to the Lok Sabha from the South Goa constituency in the 1984 general election. He actively supported the demand for statehood to Goa which was fulfilled in 1987. Naik represented Goa in the Rajya Sabha for two consecutive terms -- 2005-2011 and 2011-2017. However, in July 2017, he lost the election to the Upper House of Parliament to BJP candidate Vinay Tendulkar. In March this year, Naik resigned as president of the GPCC to pave the way for the younger generation to take the reins of the party. Naik took over as GPCC chief in July 2017, months after the Congress failed to form a government in the coastal state despite emerging as the single largest party. He was replaced as the state unit chief by Girish Raya Chodankar in April. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, among other leaders, condoled the death of Naik. Naidu said the ex-Congress MP was active in Parliament and made good contribution to debates in the House. "I convey my heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Member of Parliament from Goa and former Goa Congress President. "He was one of the most active MPs and made good contribution to parliamentary debates. "I pray for his eternal peace," Naidu said in a tweet. Gandhi, on hearing the news of the demise, called up the family members of Naik and conveyed his condolences to them, Chodankar said. Gandhi, who spoke to Naik's wife and son, hailed the role played by the Congress veteran in the battle for Goa's statehood. "I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Shri Shantaram Naik, former Goa Congress Chief, MP and senior Congress leader, who played an important role in the battle for Goa's statehood. "My condolences to his family in their time of grief. May his soul rest in peace," the Congress chief tweeted. Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said Naik was an important leader of the party in Goa. "Shocked and saddened by the passing away of Shantaram Naik ji, a pillar of indomitable strength for Congress party in Goa. "In this hour of grief, I express my solidarity with his family, friends and supporters and pray for the departed soul," Surjewala tweeted. Chodankar said Naik was a mentor to the young Congressmen. "It is a shocking news for us. We have lost a guide in the form of him. He had mentored so many youths and inspired them to join Congress party. It is a big loss for us," said Chodankar.

Former Goa Congress chief Shantaram Naik dies

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Saturday downplayed the protest among party workers over its decision to forgo a Rajya Sabha seat in favour of the Kerala Congress (M), which returned to the UDF coalition after a gap of two years.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, KPCC president MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits.

He said the party leadership also understood the workers' sentiments and their pain over the decision.

"We are also pained by the decision... But it was taken with a view to strengthen the party-led UDF and democratic forces to take on the BJP and the LDF in the state," Hassan said.

The Congress party would issue a whip asking its MLAs to vote for Jose K Mani, the RS candidate of the KM Mani-led KC(M).

However, the KPCC chief admitted that the KC(M) insisted on the seat as a condition for its re-entry into the UDF fold.

Meanwhile, rumblings in the party over the RS seat issue continued with former KPCC president V M Sudheeran saying that party workers felt that they were being cheated.

The senior leader also alleged that the decision lacked transparency.

The seat is currently held by Rajya Sabha deputy chairman P J Kurian of the Congress, who is set to retire on&nbsp;July 1.

Two young Congress MLAs, V T Balaram and K S Sabarinathan, who were among those who asked AICC chief Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the decision, expressed their displeasure again.

Balaram, in a Facebook post, called for a leadership change in the party and said people with vision and those who understood the pulse of the grassroot-level workers were the need of the hour.

The decision to field Jose Mani, son of K M Mani, as the candidate was taken at a KC(M) meeting held last night in Pala, near Kottayam, hours after the party rejoined the UDF.

Jose K Mani is currently the party's lone member in the Lok Sabha from the Kottayam parliamentary constituency.

MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Saturday downplayed the protest among party workers over its decision to forgo a Rajya Sabha seat in favour of the Kerala Congress (M), which returned to the UDF coalition after a gap of two years. Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, KPCC president MM Hassan said the protest over the decision was natural in a democratic party but cautioned that it should not cross limits. He said the party leadership also understood the workers' sentiments and their pain over the decision. "We are also pained by the decision... But it was taken with a view to strengthen the party-led UDF and democratic forces to take on the BJP and the LDF in the state," Hassan said. The Congress party would issue a whip asking its MLAs to vote for Jose K Mani, the RS candidate of the KM Mani-led KC(M). However, the KPCC chief admitted that the KC(M) insisted on the seat as a condition for its re-entry into the UDF fold. Meanwhile, rumblings in the party over the RS seat issue continued with former KPCC president V M Sudheeran saying that party workers felt that they were being cheated. The senior leader also alleged that the decision lacked transparency. The seat is currently held by Rajya Sabha deputy chairman P J Kurian of the Congress, who is set to retire on July 1. Two young Congress MLAs, V T Balaram and K S Sabarinathan, who were among those who asked AICC chief Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the decision, expressed their displeasure again. Balaram, in a Facebook post, called for a leadership change in the party and said people with vision and those who understood the pulse of the grassroot-level workers were the need of the hour. The decision to field Jose Mani, son of K M Mani, as the candidate was taken at a KC(M) meeting held last night in Pala, near Kottayam, hours after the party rejoined the UDF. Jose K Mani is currently the party's lone member in the Lok Sabha from the Kottayam parliamentary constituency.

Kerala Congress downplays protest over Rajya Sabha seat

Dismissing the allegations levelled by the Congress party about the <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-orders-probe-into-anomalies-in-madhya-pradesh-voters-list-141998">discrepancies in Madhya Pradesh's voters' list</a>, the Election Commission on Friday clarified that there were no irregularities in the electoral rolls in the state.

The EC rejected reports of irregularities claiming that the "nothing unusual" could be noticed in the electoral roll of the state.

The EC said, "This has been seen from the perspective of census data and the annual increase in the numbers of the electoral roll and nothing unusual could be noticed. It can be safely concluded that there is no basis to dispute current electoral roll".

Allegations claiming unexplained growth in the electors in Madhya Pradesh were raised as the Elector Population (EP) ratio which used to be 52.76 per cent in 2008 increased to 61.45 per cent in 2018.

The Congress had levelled the allegations in February and asked the Election Commission to take necessary steps for ensuring free and fair elections.

Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath had also alleged that 60 lakh fake voters were deliberately registered in the state`s voter list.

The EC said, 'This has been seen from the perspective of census data and the annual increase in the numbers of the electoral roll and nothing unusual could be noticed. It can be safely concluded that there is no basis to dispute current electoral roll'

Dismissing the allegations levelled by the Congress party about the discrepancies in Madhya Pradesh's voters' list, the Election Commission on Friday clarified that there were no irregularities in the electoral rolls in the state. The EC rejected reports of irregularities claiming that the "nothing unusual" could be noticed in the electoral roll of the state. The EC said, "This has been seen from the perspective of census data and the annual increase in the numbers of the electoral roll and nothing unusual could be noticed. It can be safely concluded that there is no basis to dispute current electoral roll". Allegations claiming unexplained growth in the electors in Madhya Pradesh were raised as the Elector Population (EP) ratio which used to be 52.76 per cent in 2008 increased to 61.45 per cent in 2018. The Congress had levelled the allegations in February and asked the Election Commission to take necessary steps for ensuring free and fair elections. Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath had also alleged that 60 lakh fake voters were deliberately registered in the state`s voter list.

EC quashes Congress' claims of irregularity in Madhya Pradesh electoral lists

Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha chief Narayan Rane on Thursday targeted the Shiv Sena and dared the Uddhav Thackeray-headed party to walk out of the BJP-led NDA government in the state as it announced its decision to contest elections on its own.

"You talk about fighting polls without an alliance (with the BJP). Then why do you not let go of power? You criticise your ally while being part of the government. Contesting elections separately does not befit the Sena," Rane said, addressing his party workers in suburban Bandra.&nbsp

Rane, a Rajya Sabha member, said there were various challenges plaguing the state but no political party seemed interested in tackling them, hence, he had to form his own political party.

The former Chief Minister of Maharashtra further questioned if the Sena was formed for the welfare of Marathi-speaking individuals, why did the percentage of such people decrease in Mumbai.

"Marathi people gave everything to the Sena but what did the party give back to them?" he questioned.

"If the entire responsibility of governance is on the BJP, are you just there to sit and eat? he asked.&nbsp

Slamming the Congress, Rane said the party did not fulfil the promises it had made to the people.

In an apparent dig at former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, who was earlier a Union minister, Rane said the reins of the state were given to a person who knew nothing about the state.

"I left the Congress because they kept making promises to me. After I quit the party, I had offers from parties including the Sena. However, I realised I had to form my own party if I wanted to give justice to my (party) workers," Rane said as he exhorted his workers to start preparations for the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha chief Narayan Rane on Thursday targeted the Shiv Sena and dared the Uddhav Thackeray-headed party to walk out of the BJP-led NDA government in the state as it announced its decision to contest elections on its own

Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha chief Narayan Rane on Thursday targeted the Shiv Sena and dared the Uddhav Thackeray-headed party to walk out of the BJP-led NDA government in the state as it announced its decision to contest elections on its own. "You talk about fighting polls without an alliance (with the BJP). Then why do you not let go of power? You criticise your ally while being part of the government. Contesting elections separately does not befit the Sena," Rane said, addressing his party workers in suburban Bandra. Rane, a Rajya Sabha member, said there were various challenges plaguing the state but no political party seemed interested in tackling them, hence, he had to form his own political party. The former Chief Minister of Maharashtra further questioned if the Sena was formed for the welfare of Marathi-speaking individuals, why did the percentage of such people decrease in Mumbai. "Marathi people gave everything to the Sena but what did the party give back to them?" he questioned. "If the entire responsibility of governance is on the BJP, are you just there to sit and eat? he asked. Slamming the Congress, Rane said the party did not fulfil the promises it had made to the people. In an apparent dig at former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, who was earlier a Union minister, Rane said the reins of the state were given to a person who knew nothing about the state. "I left the Congress because they kept making promises to me. After I quit the party, I had offers from parties including the Sena. However, I realised I had to form my own party if I wanted to give justice to my (party) workers," Rane said as he exhorted his workers to start preparations for the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha chief Narayan Rane dares Shiv Sena to quit BJP-led govt

BJP veteran L K Advani on Friday described former president Pranab Mukherjee's visit to the RSS headquarters and his "illuminating exposition of the noble idea and ideals of Indian nationalism" as a "significant event in our country's contemporary history".

Advani lauded Mukherjee, who has had decades of association with the Congress, for accepting the invitation of the Hindutva organisation and its chief Mohan Bhagwat for inviting him, saying there was significant concord and resonance in the views expressed by both of them.&nbsp&nbsp &nbsp

As a lifelong 'swayamsevak' of the RSS, the BJP veteran said he believed that Mukherjee and Bhagwat have truly set a praiseworthy example of dialogue transcending ideological affiliations and differences.&nbsp

"Both of them highlighted the essential unity of India, which accepts and respects all diversities, including the pluralism of faiths," he said in a statement.

Advani, who has served as the BJP president for the longest period, expressed his happiness over the RSS under Bhagwat expanding and intensifying its efforts to reach out to various sections of the nation in the spirit of dialogue.

"Such conversations, conducted in the spirit of openness and mutual respect, will surely help in creating a much-needed atmosphere of tolerance, harmony and cooperation to build an India of our common dreams," he said.

Praising Mukherjee, Advani said he showed grace and goodwill in accepting the RSS invite as he recalled his long association with him.

"His own reflective nature, combined with his long and varied experience in public life, have made him a statesman who strongly believes in the necessity of dialogue and cooperation among people of various ideological and political backgrounds," he said of Mukherjee.

The former president's decision to accept the RSS invite to address its members had drawn a lot of flak from several Congress leaders and other rivals of the BJP, which is affiliated to the RSS.&nbsp

However, Mukherjee's speech drew praise from Congress leaders as well as from those associated with the RSS. He warned that hatred and intolerance diluted national identity and asserted that nationalism was not bound by race or religion while calling for dialogue to reconcile differences.

Advani lauded Mukherjee, who has had decades of association with the Congress, for accepting the invitation of the Hindutva organisation

BJP veteran L K Advani on Friday described former president Pranab Mukherjee's visit to the RSS headquarters and his "illuminating exposition of the noble idea and ideals of Indian nationalism" as a "significant event in our country's contemporary history". Advani lauded Mukherjee, who has had decades of association with the Congress, for accepting the invitation of the Hindutva organisation and its chief Mohan Bhagwat for inviting him, saying there was significant concord and resonance in the views expressed by both of them. As a lifelong 'swayamsevak' of the RSS, the BJP veteran said he believed that Mukherjee and Bhagwat have truly set a praiseworthy example of dialogue transcending ideological affiliations and differences. "Both of them highlighted the essential unity of India, which accepts and respects all diversities, including the pluralism of faiths," he said in a statement. Advani, who has served as the BJP president for the longest period, expressed his happiness over the RSS under Bhagwat expanding and intensifying its efforts to reach out to various sections of the nation in the spirit of dialogue. "Such conversations, conducted in the spirit of openness and mutual respect, will surely help in creating a much-needed atmosphere of tolerance, harmony and cooperation to build an India of our common dreams," he said. Praising Mukherjee, Advani said he showed grace and goodwill in accepting the RSS invite as he recalled his long association with him. "His own reflective nature, combined with his long and varied experience in public life, have made him a statesman who strongly believes in the necessity of dialogue and cooperation among people of various ideological and political backgrounds," he said of Mukherjee. The former president's decision to accept the RSS invite to address its members had drawn a lot of flak from several Congress leaders and other rivals of the BJP, which is affiliated to the RSS. However, Mukherjee's speech drew praise from Congress leaders as well as from those associated with the RSS. He warned that hatred and intolerance diluted national identity and asserted that nationalism was not bound by race or religion while calling for dialogue to reconcile differences.

Pranab's visit to RSS, his speech a significant event in our history: Advani

Amid the claims made by BJP officials about the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-visits-shiva-sena-chief-uddhav-thackeray-expected-to-try-and-mollify-him-142682">"positive" meeting between Amit Shah and Shiv Sena chief</a> Uddhav Thackeray, Maharashtra MP and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has clarified that the Shiv Sena will stick to its resolution of contesting the upcoming elections on its own.

Raut said, "We know what the agenda of Amit Shah ji is but Shiv Sena has passed a resolution that we'll contest all upcoming elections on our own. There will be no change in that resolution".

BJP president Amit Shah and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray held a meeting at Thackeray's residence on Wednesday. The meeting was part of BJP's ongoing `Sampark for Samarthan` (Contact for Support) campaign.

The meeting was scheduled by the BJP chief to reduce the growing tensions between the two parties, said a BJP official.

Differences between the two parties emerged lately and were clearly seen in the recent bypoll&nbsp;elections where the two parties contested separately.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who was also present in the meeting said that although there was no plan to dissolve the alliance, mutual efforts were essential for sustaining ties.

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra MP and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said, 'We know what the agenda of Amit Shah ji is but Shiv Sena has passed a resolution that we'll contest all upcoming elections on our own. There will be no change in that resolution'

Amid the claims made by BJP officials about the "positive" meeting between Amit Shah and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Maharashtra MP and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has clarified that the Shiv Sena will stick to its resolution of contesting the upcoming elections on its own. Raut said, "We know what the agenda of Amit Shah ji is but Shiv Sena has passed a resolution that we'll contest all upcoming elections on our own. There will be no change in that resolution". BJP president Amit Shah and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray held a meeting at Thackeray's residence on Wednesday. The meeting was part of BJP's ongoing `Sampark for Samarthan` (Contact for Support) campaign. The meeting was scheduled by the BJP chief to reduce the growing tensions between the two parties, said a BJP official. Differences between the two parties emerged lately and were clearly seen in the recent bypoll elections where the two parties contested separately. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who was also present in the meeting said that although there was no plan to dissolve the alliance, mutual efforts were essential for sustaining ties. (With inputs from ANI)

Despite Amit Shah's meeting, Shiv Sena clarifies 'will contest all upcoming elections on our own'

Sonia Gandhi's aide <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/rss-event-pranabs-daughter-says-his-speech-will-be-forgotten-visuals-will-remain--142689">Ahmed Patel hit out against </a>former president Pranab Mukherjee's visit to RSS centre in Nagpur where he is set to deliver a speech today evening.

In a tweet Patel said, "I did not expect this from Pranab da!," while replying to a tweet from ex-president's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee.

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I did not expect this from Pranab da ! <a href="https://t.co/VBqXZ8x7SE">https://t.co/VBqXZ8x7SE</a>
— Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahmedpatel/status/1004426032831606784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Pranab's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee in a tweet had lashed out against her father's visit to Nagpur saying the "visit would be forgotten but visuals will remain."

The former Congressman had decided to accept an invite by the RSS to deliver the speech as the Congress leaders raised objections over the visit.

In the tweet, Sharmistha said it would give the "BJP and RSS full handle to plant false stories, spread false rumours" adding, "making it somewhat believable".

"And this is just the beginning!," she said in her tweet.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m-tGD5DMNds" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The former Congressman had decided to accept an invite by the RSS to deliver the speech

Sonia Gandhi's aide Ahmed Patel hit out against former president Pranab Mukherjee's visit to RSS centre in Nagpur where he is set to deliver a speech today evening. In a tweet Patel said, "I did not expect this from Pranab da!," while replying to a tweet from ex-president's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee. I did not expect this from Pranab da ! https://t.co/VBqXZ8x7SE — Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) June 6, 2018 × Pranab's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee in a tweet had lashed out against her father's visit to Nagpur saying the "visit would be forgotten but visuals will remain." The former Congressman had decided to accept an invite by the RSS to deliver the speech as the Congress leaders raised objections over the visit. In the tweet, Sharmistha said it would give the "BJP and RSS full handle to plant false stories, spread false rumours" adding, "making it somewhat believable". "And this is just the beginning!," she said in her tweet.

'Did not expect this from Pranab,' says Sonia's aide Ahmed Patel on speech at RSS event

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday promised to waive farmers` loans in 10 days if voted to power in Madhya Pradesh.

Addressing a rally in Mandsaur, Gandhi questioned the government on the delay in filing a probe report into the death of seven farmers in police firing a year ago, alleging that the BJP government in the state had failed to provide security to farmers and address their concerns.

"I assure you when the Congress forms the government in Madhya Pradesh, farmers` loans will be written off within 10 days. The families of the farmers (killed in Mandsaur last year) will get justice in 10 days and we will take action against those responsible for the firing," the Congress President said.

The Gandhi scion also lashed out at the state and Central governments for ignoring the farm distress across the country.

"The governments are of no use if they cannot provide security to farmers and their families. A total of 1,200 farmers committed suicide in Madhya Pradesh. Did any rich person or their family member commit suicide who have lakhs of crores as debt," he said, addressing the Kisan Samriddhi Sankalp Rally.

Earlier, Gandhi paid tributes to the dead farmers in Piplia Mandi town of Mandsaur district.

He also met the families of the slain farmers.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mandsaur?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mandsaur</a>: Congress President Rahul Gandhi meets family members of farmers who died in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mandsaur?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mandsaur</a> farmers protest last year. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradesh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/ODlMsyZXfd">pic.twitter.com/ODlMsyZXfd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1004316107522490369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Seven famers were killed in police firing last year on June 6. Rahul Gandhi promised a farm loan waiver within 10 days if the Congress is voted to power in the state in the upcoming assembly elections

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday promised to waive farmers` loans in 10 days if voted to power in Madhya Pradesh. Addressing a rally in Mandsaur, Gandhi questioned the government on the delay in filing a probe report into the death of seven farmers in police firing a year ago, alleging that the BJP government in the state had failed to provide security to farmers and address their concerns. "I assure you when the Congress forms the government in Madhya Pradesh, farmers` loans will be written off within 10 days. The families of the farmers (killed in Mandsaur last year) will get justice in 10 days and we will take action against those responsible for the firing," the Congress President said. The Gandhi scion also lashed out at the state and Central governments for ignoring the farm distress across the country. "The governments are of no use if they cannot provide security to farmers and their families. A total of 1,200 farmers committed suicide in Madhya Pradesh. Did any rich person or their family member commit suicide who have lakhs of crores as debt," he said, addressing the Kisan Samriddhi Sankalp Rally. Earlier, Gandhi paid tributes to the dead farmers in Piplia Mandi town of Mandsaur district. He also met the families of the slain farmers. #Mandsaur: Congress President Rahul Gandhi meets family members of farmers who died in #Mandsaur farmers protest last year. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/ODlMsyZXfd — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2018 ×

Mandsaur killings anniversary: Rahul promises farm loans waiver

The 15-day-old H D Kumaraswamy&nbsp;Ministry in Karnataka was expanded on Wednesday with the induction of 25 ministers.

Fourteen ministers are from the Congress, nine from its ruling coalition partner JDS and one each from the BSP and the KPJP.

Governor Vajubhai Vala administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a ceremony at Raj Bhavan.

H D Revanna, son of the former prime minister and JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda and state senior Congress leaders D K Shivakumar were among those who took the oath.

JDS' G T Deve Gowda, who had emerged as a giant killer defeating former chief minister Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysuru in the assembly polls was also inducted.

Congress MLC Jayamala was the lone woman minister.

Under the power-sharing arrangement, Congress will have 22 ministers and the JDS 12.

With today's expansion, the strength of the ministry has gone up to 27, leaving seven more vacancies to be filled.

Kumaraswamy had taken oath as chief minister and KPCC chief G Parameshwara as deputy chief minister on May 23.&nbsp;

Fourteen ministers are from the Congress, nine from its ruling coalition partner JDS and one each from the BSP and the KPJP.

The 15-day-old H D Kumaraswamy Ministry in Karnataka was expanded on Wednesday with the induction of 25 ministers. Fourteen ministers are from the Congress, nine from its ruling coalition partner JDS and one each from the BSP and the KPJP. Governor Vajubhai Vala administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a ceremony at Raj Bhavan. H D Revanna, son of the former prime minister and JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda and state senior Congress leaders D K Shivakumar were among those who took the oath. JDS' G T Deve Gowda, who had emerged as a giant killer defeating former chief minister Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysuru in the assembly polls was also inducted. Congress MLC Jayamala was the lone woman minister. Under the power-sharing arrangement, Congress will have 22 ministers and the JDS 12. With today's expansion, the strength of the ministry has gone up to 27, leaving seven more vacancies to be filled. Kumaraswamy had taken oath as chief minister and KPCC chief G Parameshwara as deputy chief minister on May 23.

Karnataka: Kumaraswamy ministry expanded, 25 ministers inducted

Former finance Minister P Chidambaram today went to the CBI headquarters for questioning regarding foreign investment clearances given to INX media during his tenure.

The agency had alleged irregularities in the clearance of foreign investment in INX media, a venture promoted by former media baron Peter Mukerjea and his wife Indrani, sources said.

Chidambaram's alleged role came under the scanner of investigating agencies in connection with the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance of Rs 305 crore.

The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15 last year for alleged irregularities in the FIPB clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the finance minister during the UPA-1 government.

Chidambaram's son Karti Chidambaram was also arrested in the case for allegedly receiving funds to the tune of Rs 10 lakh.

The other accused in the case include then INX media director Indrani Mukerjea and then INX news director Peter Mukerjea, both in jail for alleged murder of their 24-year old daughter Sheena Bora.

The agency had alleged irregularities in the clearance of foreign investment in INX media

Former finance Minister P Chidambaram today went to the CBI headquarters for questioning regarding foreign investment clearances given to INX media during his tenure. The agency had alleged irregularities in the clearance of foreign investment in INX media, a venture promoted by former media baron Peter Mukerjea and his wife Indrani, sources said. Chidambaram's alleged role came under the scanner of investigating agencies in connection with the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance of Rs 305 crore. The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15 last year for alleged irregularities in the FIPB clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the finance minister during the UPA-1 government. Chidambaram's son Karti Chidambaram was also arrested in the case for allegedly receiving funds to the tune of Rs 10 lakh. The other accused in the case include then INX media director Indrani Mukerjea and then INX news director Peter Mukerjea, both in jail for alleged murder of their 24-year old daughter Sheena Bora.

P Chidambaram at CBI headquarters for questioning in INX media case

The Congress is more capable than the BJP in building alliances and collaborating with parties, Rashtriya Lok Dal Vice President Jayant Chaudhary has said, asserting that the Rahul Gandhi-led party can play a key role in forging an opposition coalition for the 2019 polls.

Buoyed by the win in the Kairana parliamentary bypoll, he said public opinion and electoral results such as the bypoll victory will act as a "glue" for cementing a coalition for the Lok Sabha polls next year.

Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) candidate Tabassum Hasan, who was supported by the Samajwadi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Congress, triumphed last week over her BJP rival in Kairana to become the first Muslim face from Uttar Pradesh in the 16th Lok Sabha.

Her victory also gave RLD, its first representative in the current Lok Sabha after the party drew a blank in the 2014 general election.

In an interview to PTI, Chaudhary said the BJP wants to make the 2019 polls a battle of personalities, but the opposition wants to project issues rather than a personality to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"They (the BJP) have built a personality cult around Modi and now they expect the opposition to also thrust upon the nation a similar figure so that the two can sort of take each other on," the 39-year-old leader said.

Chaudhary, who is the son of RLD chief Ajit Singh and the grandson of former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, said there was more talent in the opposition ranks and more freedom to express than in the BJP.

"So, I think going into 2019, I am not sure there will be an understanding of who's on top and who's at the bottom (of the opposition alliance), but we will be working together. That is important for the country," he asserted.

Asked if Congress being a pan-India party could be the pivot of the opposition alliance to take on the BJP, he said, "Congress today is the largest opposition party and they have an organisation in most states of the country that is still strong.

"... I see a good story emerging. Congress can definitely play that role. They can cooperate and collaborate more effectively than the BJP."

He said that due to the manner in which the BJP has dealt with its own allies, the saffron party's alliance partners were either breaking away or speaking very openly against it.

"So, the Congress has an opportunity here to try and make new relationships with these partners as well," he said.

Asked if the Congress was more capable of building alliances and working in unison with parties in an alliance, Chaudhary said, "That's my perception, (and) that is the perception of a lot of people in the political system."

Chaudhary, whose party RLD has been in an alliance with the BJP in the past, also alleged that there was arrogance that had crept into the BJP and it was no longer 'the party with a difference'.

"They (the BJP) have shown that they are willing to grab power at any cost. So I think these are all signals and they are very threatening to smaller parties, to regional parties, to anyone who believes that there needs to be cooperation, so that's why I think that there is a mindset now that's been developed in the opposition parties at least that the BJP is a complete no," he said.

The BJP leads the NDA coalition at the Centre. The Telugu Desam Party recently quit the NDA, while the Shiv Sena has been critical of the BJP over several issues.

Chaudhary also asserted that if the alliance between his party, the SP, the BSP and the Congress in UP takes shape, it would help the Congress in states where it is involved in a direct contest with the BJP.

"I think ultimately it (the alliance in UP) will help Congress in the states where it is taking on the BJP, there numbers will go up... If Congress takes us along and tells us that lets work together in other states as well, some of these opposition leaders will be very willing to do that," the former MP said.

Acknowledging that seat sharing would not be easy for the grand alliance in UP, he said the "social coalition" formed was more important than just simple political arithmetic or simple political coalition.

"So, to sustain that social coalition, if political parties have to forego their own interest and work together, I think we should do it," Chaudhary said.

Talking about the Kairana bypoll win, he said it was basically a message to political parties that the alliance was also the people's will.

"It was a negative vote against BJP. It was also a positive vote for the opposition working together. Going forward it is this public opinion and these good results that will perhaps act as the glue for cementing the alliance," Chaudhary said.

The united opposition victory in Kairana follows the BJP defeats in the Lok Sabha bye-elections in Gorakhpur and Phulpur in March, and come just a year before the general election.

Talking about his 'Ganna not Jinnah' campaign in Kairana, he said the campaign based around the farmer identity was able to trump the religious identity model.

"It is a strong signal that going forward also the antagonistic tone that the BJP has employed in many elections, the Hindu-Muslim rhetoric, it may not work," Chaudhary said.

Asserting that alliances are here to stay, he said the reason he feels the alliance in UP would continue was because it has tasted success. 
"When you win an election, there is pressure from your workers, there is pressure from the voters to continue," Chaudhary said.

Buoyed by the win in the Kairana parliamentary bypoll, he said public opinion and electoral results such as the bypoll victory will act as a "glue" for cementing a coalition for the Lok Sabha polls next year

The Congress is more capable than the BJP in building alliances and collaborating with parties, Rashtriya Lok Dal Vice President Jayant Chaudhary has said, asserting that the Rahul Gandhi-led party can play a key role in forging an opposition coalition for the 2019 polls. Buoyed by the win in the Kairana parliamentary bypoll, he said public opinion and electoral results such as the bypoll victory will act as a "glue" for cementing a coalition for the Lok Sabha polls next year. Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) candidate Tabassum Hasan, who was supported by the Samajwadi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Congress, triumphed last week over her BJP rival in Kairana to become the first Muslim face from Uttar Pradesh in the 16th Lok Sabha. Her victory also gave RLD, its first representative in the current Lok Sabha after the party drew a blank in the 2014 general election. In an interview to PTI, Chaudhary said the BJP wants to make the 2019 polls a battle of personalities, but the opposition wants to project issues rather than a personality to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "They (the BJP) have built a personality cult around Modi and now they expect the opposition to also thrust upon the nation a similar figure so that the two can sort of take each other on," the 39-year-old leader said. Chaudhary, who is the son of RLD chief Ajit Singh and the grandson of former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, said there was more talent in the opposition ranks and more freedom to express than in the BJP. "So, I think going into 2019, I am not sure there will be an understanding of who's on top and who's at the bottom (of the opposition alliance), but we will be working together. That is important for the country," he asserted. Asked if Congress being a pan-India party could be the pivot of the opposition alliance to take on the BJP, he said, "Congress today is the largest opposition party and they have an organisation in most states of the country that is still strong. "... I see a good story emerging. Congress can definitely play that role. They can cooperate and collaborate more effectively than the BJP." He said that due to the manner in which the BJP has dealt with its own allies, the saffron party's alliance partners were either breaking away or speaking very openly against it. "So, the Congress has an opportunity here to try and make new relationships with these partners as well," he said. Asked if the Congress was more capable of building alliances and working in unison with parties in an alliance, Chaudhary said, "That's my perception, (and) that is the perception of a lot of people in the political system." Chaudhary, whose party RLD has been in an alliance with the BJP in the past, also alleged that there was arrogance that had crept into the BJP and it was no longer 'the party with a difference'. "They (the BJP) have shown that they are willing to grab power at any cost. So I think these are all signals and they are very threatening to smaller parties, to regional parties, to anyone who believes that there needs to be cooperation, so that's why I think that there is a mindset now that's been developed in the opposition parties at least that the BJP is a complete no," he said. The BJP leads the NDA coalition at the Centre. The Telugu Desam Party recently quit the NDA, while the Shiv Sena has been critical of the BJP over several issues. Chaudhary also asserted that if the alliance between his party, the SP, the BSP and the Congress in UP takes shape, it would help the Congress in states where it is involved in a direct contest with the BJP. "I think ultimately it (the alliance in UP) will help Congress in the states where it is taking on the BJP, there numbers will go up... If Congress takes us along and tells us that lets work together in other states as well, some of these opposition leaders will be very willing to do that," the former MP said. Acknowledging that seat sharing would not be easy for the grand alliance in UP, he said the "social coalition" formed was more important than just simple political arithmetic or simple political coalition. "So, to sustain that social coalition, if political parties have to forego their own interest and work together, I think we should do it," Chaudhary said. Talking about the Kairana bypoll win, he said it was basically a message to political parties that the alliance was also the people's will. "It was a negative vote against BJP. It was also a positive vote for the opposition working together. Going forward it is this public opinion and these good results that will perhaps act as the glue for cementing the alliance," Chaudhary said. The united opposition victory in Kairana follows the BJP defeats in the Lok Sabha bye-elections in Gorakhpur and Phulpur in March, and come just a year before the general election. Talking about his 'Ganna not Jinnah' campaign in Kairana, he said the campaign based around the farmer identity was able to trump the religious identity model. "It is a strong signal that going forward also the antagonistic tone that the BJP has employed in many elections, the Hindu-Muslim rhetoric, it may not work," Chaudhary said. Asserting that alliances are here to stay, he said the reason he feels the alliance in UP would continue was because it has tasted success. "When you win an election, there is pressure from your workers, there is pressure from the voters to continue," Chaudhary said.

Congress more capable of building alliances than BJP: RLD's Jayant Chaudhary

The Janata Dal (Secular) Party on Tuesday decided to support the Congress after withdrawing its candidate Kalegowda from the Jayanagar assembly constituency that is slated to be held on June 11.

In Jayanagar, the Congress had fielded Soumya Reddy, daughter of Ramalinga Reddy, former Home Minister and BTM Layout MLA. The JD(S) had fielded greenhorn Kale Gowda. The constituency has over 2.03 lakh voters, and 19 candidates. BJP has held the seat since delimitation in 2008.&nbsp;

JD(S) has issued press release stating that all workers will support and campaign for Congress candidate.&nbsp;

Election in Jayanagar had been deferred owing to the death of BJP candidate BN Vijaya Kumar. The BJP has nominated his brother B.N. Prahlad.

Jayanagar election was postponed along with Rajarajeshwari Nagar (RR Nagar) where several voter ID card scandal led to a police case and a massive upheaval just days ahead of the May 12 elections.

Congress and JD(S) had fought the RR Nagar bypoll against each other despite being coalition partners, as they failed to come to a consensus on supporting one of their candidates.

The withdrawal by the JD(S) comes as a testimony to the growing awareness of the strength of a united Opposition.&nbsp;

The withdrawal by the JD(S) comes as a testimony to the growing awareness of the strength of a united Opposition.

The Janata Dal (Secular) Party on Tuesday decided to support the Congress after withdrawing its candidate Kalegowda from the Jayanagar assembly constituency that is slated to be held on June 11. In Jayanagar, the Congress had fielded Soumya Reddy, daughter of Ramalinga Reddy, former Home Minister and BTM Layout MLA. The JD(S) had fielded greenhorn Kale Gowda. The constituency has over 2.03 lakh voters, and 19 candidates. BJP has held the seat since delimitation in 2008. JD(S) has issued press release stating that all workers will support and campaign for Congress candidate. Election in Jayanagar had been deferred owing to the death of BJP candidate BN Vijaya Kumar. The BJP has nominated his brother B.N. Prahlad. Jayanagar election was postponed along with Rajarajeshwari Nagar (RR Nagar) where several voter ID card scandal led to a police case and a massive upheaval just days ahead of the May 12 elections. Congress and JD(S) had fought the RR Nagar bypoll against each other despite being coalition partners, as they failed to come to a consensus on supporting one of their candidates. The withdrawal by the JD(S) comes as a testimony to the growing awareness of the strength of a united Opposition.

Karnataka: JD(S) withdraws candidate from Jayanagar seat, will support Congress

Former Union minister&nbsp;P Chidambaram&nbsp;was on Tuesday questioned in the&nbsp;Aircel-Maxis&nbsp;case for the first time by the Enforcement Directorate, a department which was under him during his tenure in the finance ministry. 
 
The senior Congress leader, who was considered one of the most powerful ministers in the previous UPA government, was questioned by the probe agency for over six hours. 
 
The agency recorded his statement under the&nbsp;PMLA&nbsp;(Prevention of Money Laundering Act) with some specific queries on the circumstances and procedures adopted by the now-defunct Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) while giving approval to the Aircel-Maxis deal during his tenure. 
 
Chidambaram's son Karti has already been questioned by the ED twice in this case. 
 
Soon after leaving the ED office, Chidambaram tweeted to say that all the answers he gave to the probe agency were already recorded in government documents. 
 
He also said that there is no FIR, yet a probe had been initiated. 
 
"More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it!" he said in his tweet.

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More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it!
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Chidambaram arrived at the agency's headquarters annexe office here around 10:58 am accompanied by a lawyer, even as a strong contingent of police and CRPF personnel set up a security cordon at the office. 
 
He was allowed by the agency to go out for lunch around 1:30 pm after over two hours of questioning, officials said. 
 
The next round of questioning began about 3:30 pm which ended around 7 pm, they said. 
 
It is expected that the agency may call him again. 
 
The ED had issued a fresh summons to him yesterday to appear before the investigating officer of the case. 
 
Chidambaram, also a former home minister, had last week approached the court of special judge OP Saini seeking relief from arrest by the ED in the case. 
 
The same court today directed the ED not to take any coercive action or arrest him till July 10 in connection with the case. 
 
The ED had first asked him to appear before it on May 30 and on the same day, Chidambaram knocked the court's door. 
 
The court, in its order on May 30, had noted that Chidambaram has undertaken to comply with the summons issued by the ED, while saying he apprehended his arrest by the agency. 
 
The Aircel-Maxis cases pertains to grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd in 2006 for investment in Aircel. 
 
The Supreme Court had on March 12 directed investigating agencies -- the CBI and the ED -- to complete their probe into the 2G spectrum allocation cases, including the Aircel Maxis alleged money laundering case, in six months. 
 
The agency had said that the FIPB approval in the Aircel-Maxis FDI case was granted in March 2006 by Chidambaram even though he was competent to accord approval on project proposals only up to Rs 600 crore and beyond that it required the approval of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). 
 
The ED is investigating "the circumstances of the FIPB approval granted (in 2006) by the then finance minister." 
 
"In the instant case, the approval for FDI of $800 million (over Rs 3,500 crore) was sought. Hence, the CCEA was competent to grant the approval. 
 
"However, the approval was not obtained from the CCEA," the ED had alleged. 
 
The agency said its probe revealed that the case of the said FDI was "wrongly projected as an investment of Rs 180 crore so that it need not be sent to the CCEA to avoid a detailed scrutiny".&nbsp;

The senior Congress leader, who was considered one of the most powerful ministers in the previous UPA government, was questioned by the probe agency for over six hours

Former Union minister P Chidambaram was on Tuesday questioned in the Aircel-Maxis case for the first time by the Enforcement Directorate, a department which was under him during his tenure in the finance ministry. The senior Congress leader, who was considered one of the most powerful ministers in the previous UPA government, was questioned by the probe agency for over six hours. The agency recorded his statement under the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) with some specific queries on the circumstances and procedures adopted by the now-defunct Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) while giving approval to the Aircel-Maxis deal during his tenure. Chidambaram's son Karti has already been questioned by the ED twice in this case. Soon after leaving the ED office, Chidambaram tweeted to say that all the answers he gave to the probe agency were already recorded in government documents. He also said that there is no FIR, yet a probe had been initiated. "More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it!" he said in his tweet. More than half the time taken up by typing the answers without errors, reading the statement and signing it! — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) June 5, 2018 × Chidambaram arrived at the agency's headquarters annexe office here around 10:58 am accompanied by a lawyer, even as a strong contingent of police and CRPF personnel set up a security cordon at the office. He was allowed by the agency to go out for lunch around 1:30 pm after over two hours of questioning, officials said. The next round of questioning began about 3:30 pm which ended around 7 pm, they said. It is expected that the agency may call him again. The ED had issued a fresh summons to him yesterday to appear before the investigating officer of the case. Chidambaram, also a former home minister, had last week approached the court of special judge OP Saini seeking relief from arrest by the ED in the case. The same court today directed the ED not to take any coercive action or arrest him till July 10 in connection with the case. The ED had first asked him to appear before it on May 30 and on the same day, Chidambaram knocked the court's door. The court, in its order on May 30, had noted that Chidambaram has undertaken to comply with the summons issued by the ED, while saying he apprehended his arrest by the agency. The Aircel-Maxis cases pertains to grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd in 2006 for investment in Aircel. The Supreme Court had on March 12 directed investigating agencies -- the CBI and the ED -- to complete their probe into the 2G spectrum allocation cases, including the Aircel Maxis alleged money laundering case, in six months. The agency had said that the FIPB approval in the Aircel-Maxis FDI case was granted in March 2006 by Chidambaram even though he was competent to accord approval on project proposals only up to Rs 600 crore and beyond that it required the approval of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). The ED is investigating "the circumstances of the FIPB approval granted (in 2006) by the then finance minister." "In the instant case, the approval for FDI of $800 million (over Rs 3,500 crore) was sought. Hence, the CCEA was competent to grant the approval. "However, the approval was not obtained from the CCEA," the ED had alleged. The agency said its probe revealed that the case of the said FDI was "wrongly projected as an investment of Rs 180 crore so that it need not be sent to the CCEA to avoid a detailed scrutiny".

Aircel-Maxis case: Chidambaram appears before ED, grilled for 6 hours

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today asserted that there was absolutely "no scandal" in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France and allegations of wrongdoings relating to it were politically motivated.

Without naming the Congress, Sitharaman said, "false comparisons" were made between the price at which India was procuring the jets and the price being negotiated by some other countries.

"I am assuring you in the company of all the senior officials that yes there is no scandal in Rafale. We are very clear about that," she said replying to a question on allegations of scam in the Rafale deal.

She was addressing a press conference along with top officials of the defence ministry on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of the NDA government.&nbsp

"Absolutely," she said when asked whether she can assure that not even a single rupee has been made in the Rafale deal.

She called the allegations very clear case of "motivated attacks".

Sitharaman also said that there has been no allegations of corruption against any officials of the defence ministry in the last four years.

India had signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore, nearly one-and-half years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the proposal during a visit to Paris.&nbsp

The delivery of the jets is scheduled to begin from September 2019.

The Congress had raised several questions about the deal including the rates and accused the government of compromising national interest and security while causing a loss to the public exchequer.

The Congress has been demanding details of the deal including cost of equipment and weapons, alleging that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper than the contract signed by the Modi government

The government has been refusing to give an item-wise cost and other details about the deal in Parliament citing confidentiality provisions of a 2008 Indo-France pact.

The UPA government had negotiated a USD 10.2 billion deal for the 126 jets. However, the deal could not be finalised.&nbsp

Without naming the Congress, Sitharaman said, "false comparisons" were made between the price at which India was procuring the jets and the price being negotiated by some other countries

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today asserted that there was absolutely "no scandal" in the Rafale fighter jet deal with France and allegations of wrongdoings relating to it were politically motivated. Without naming the Congress, Sitharaman said, "false comparisons" were made between the price at which India was procuring the jets and the price being negotiated by some other countries. "I am assuring you in the company of all the senior officials that yes there is no scandal in Rafale. We are very clear about that," she said replying to a question on allegations of scam in the Rafale deal. She was addressing a press conference along with top officials of the defence ministry on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of the NDA government. "Absolutely," she said when asked whether she can assure that not even a single rupee has been made in the Rafale deal. She called the allegations very clear case of "motivated attacks". Sitharaman also said that there has been no allegations of corruption against any officials of the defence ministry in the last four years. India had signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore, nearly one-and-half years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the proposal during a visit to Paris. The delivery of the jets is scheduled to begin from September 2019. The Congress had raised several questions about the deal including the rates and accused the government of compromising national interest and security while causing a loss to the public exchequer. The Congress has been demanding details of the deal including cost of equipment and weapons, alleging that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper than the contract signed by the Modi government The government has been refusing to give an item-wise cost and other details about the deal in Parliament citing confidentiality provisions of a 2008 Indo-France pact. The UPA government had negotiated a USD 10.2 billion deal for the 126 jets. However, the deal could not be finalised.

No scandal in Rafale deal: Defence Minister Sitharaman

The Congress has been out of power in Chhattisgarh for the last 15 years. And it suffers from a dearth of top leadership in the state after Naxalites ambushed and killed a number of their leaders in 2013.

In 2013, the Congress lost the state to the BJP by a margin of 0.73 per cent of votes.

The Congress has given PL Punia, former chairman of the SC/ST Commission, charge of Chhattisgarh.

Punia told WION they are working on seats where smaller parties like the GGP and the BSP are strong. When asked about an alliance, he said, "All options are open. Final decision is yet to be taken.”&nbsp;

Punia's full interview to WION follows:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: What are the challenges for the Congress Party in Chhattisgarh?

PL Punia: Every election is a challenge whether in power or not. This time around the difference is that BJP has amassed lot of wealth and look insurmountable. But despite their financial strength, anti-incumbency exists in Chhattisgarh. Corruption is an issue. There are serious allegations against Chief Minister Raman Singh. We are also working on seats where parties like GGP (Gondwana Gantantra Party) and BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party) are strong. Roughly there are 15 seats where smaller parties make a difference in the state. I’m trying to ensure that vote does not get split.

WION: Is Congress thinking of an alliance with parties like GGP and BSP?

PL Punia: Not at the moment. We have left the option of alliance open. Rahul Gandhi has already said that alliances in the state would be decided on case to case basis. &nbsp;If required, alliances will be worked out in Chhattisgarh. We are working constituency to constituency basis and strengthening the cadre.

WION: How big a factor is former CM of Chhattisgarh, Ajit Jogi?

PL Punia: He is not a factor at all. He is not in the Congress Party anymore that is an advantage to us. He was disliked by a certain section of the society. The traders and businessmen were averse to him. He will cut into the BJP’s vote share more than ours.

WION: Then why wasn’t he asked to leave?

PL Punia: Many leaders felt in the party that in his absence we would lose the elections. But in my opinion, he used to backstab the party. He would not let candidates opposed to him as CM face win elections. For this reason, he would support non Congress candidate to defeat official Congress candidate. He was not declared as the Chief Ministerial candidate in previous elections.

WION: Congress does not have a top leadership in the state. Isn’t that an issue?

PL Punia: Unfortunately, our leadership was targeted by the Naxalites. It is a fact. But we have collective leadership today. The top gives inspiration but the work is done at the level of booth. We are focused at the level of booth management. We have focused our efforts at the level of the workers and I’m sure it will work in the coming assembly elections.

WION: What are the issues on which the Congress is contesting elections?

PL Punia: Corruption is an issue. The state government has tweaked laws and made tribal lands available to non-tribal which is not allowed under the existing provisions. We have gone down to small hamlets and organised training session for our workers. We have asked our workers to tell voters as to what role did Congress Party contributed to freedom struggle and how BJP stayed away from it. Basic development too is an issue. This time tribal and Dalit segments will vote for us.

WION: Despite your focus on backward politics, BJP still ends up getting good numbers during elections?

PL Punia: Well, they will not get it in Chhattisgarh. “Kaath ki haandi baar baar nahi charhti hai.”

&nbsp;

Punia said they are working on seats where parties like the GGP (Gondwana Gantantra Party) and the BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party) are strong, and that a decision on an alliance or alliances will be taken soon

The Congress has been out of power in Chhattisgarh for the last 15 years. And it suffers from a dearth of top leadership in the state after Naxalites ambushed and killed a number of their leaders in 2013. In 2013, the Congress lost the state to the BJP by a margin of 0.73 per cent of votes. The Congress has given PL Punia, former chairman of the SC/ST Commission, charge of Chhattisgarh. Punia told WION they are working on seats where smaller parties like the GGP and the BSP are strong. When asked about an alliance, he said, "All options are open. Final decision is yet to be taken.” Punia's full interview to WION follows: WION: What are the challenges for the Congress Party in Chhattisgarh? PL Punia: Every election is a challenge whether in power or not. This time around the difference is that BJP has amassed lot of wealth and look insurmountable. But despite their financial strength, anti-incumbency exists in Chhattisgarh. Corruption is an issue. There are serious allegations against Chief Minister Raman Singh. We are also working on seats where parties like GGP (Gondwana Gantantra Party) and BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party) are strong. Roughly there are 15 seats where smaller parties make a difference in the state. I’m trying to ensure that vote does not get split. WION: Is Congress thinking of an alliance with parties like GGP and BSP? PL Punia: Not at the moment. We have left the option of alliance open. Rahul Gandhi has already said that alliances in the state would be decided on case to case basis. If required, alliances will be worked out in Chhattisgarh. We are working constituency to constituency basis and strengthening the cadre. WION: How big a factor is former CM of Chhattisgarh, Ajit Jogi? PL Punia: He is not a factor at all. He is not in the Congress Party anymore that is an advantage to us. He was disliked by a certain section of the society. The traders and businessmen were averse to him. He will cut into the BJP’s vote share more than ours. WION: Then why wasn’t he asked to leave? PL Punia: Many leaders felt in the party that in his absence we would lose the elections. But in my opinion, he used to backstab the party. He would not let candidates opposed to him as CM face win elections. For this reason, he would support non Congress candidate to defeat official Congress candidate. He was not declared as the Chief Ministerial candidate in previous elections. WION: Congress does not have a top leadership in the state. Isn’t that an issue? PL Punia: Unfortunately, our leadership was targeted by the Naxalites. It is a fact. But we have collective leadership today. The top gives inspiration but the work is done at the level of booth. We are focused at the level of booth management. We have focused our efforts at the level of the workers and I’m sure it will work in the coming assembly elections. WION: What are the issues on which the Congress is contesting elections? PL Punia: Corruption is an issue. The state government has tweaked laws and made tribal lands available to non-tribal which is not allowed under the existing provisions. We have gone down to small hamlets and organised training session for our workers. We have asked our workers to tell voters as to what role did Congress Party contributed to freedom struggle and how BJP stayed away from it. Basic development too is an issue. This time tribal and Dalit segments will vote for us. WION: Despite your focus on backward politics, BJP still ends up getting good numbers during elections? PL Punia: Well, they will not get it in Chhattisgarh. “Kaath ki haandi baar baar nahi charhti hai.”

All options, including alliance, open in Chhattisgarh: Congress' PL Punia to WION

The Election Commission&nbspordered a probe into allegations of large-scale discrepancies in the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh.

Soon after a Congress delegation approached it on the issue, the poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations.&nbsp

The teams have to submit a report by June 7.

The Congress claimed there are at least 60 lakh bogus voters in the state, which will go to polls in November.

The party also submitted evidence to the EC to buttress its allegation.&nbsp

We have provided evidence to the Election Commission. There are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the state. These are not merely mistakes. The lists have been deliberately altered at the behest of BJP government in the state,&nbspCongress's Kamal Nath said.

The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred.

After reaching the state tomorrow, the teams would also fix responsibility for multiple and fake entries, EC said.

The poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations

The Election Commission&nbspordered a probe into allegations of large-scale discrepancies in the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh. Soon after a Congress delegation approached it on the issue, the poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations. The teams have to submit a report by June 7. The Congress claimed there are at least 60 lakh bogus voters in the state, which will go to polls in November. The party also submitted evidence to the EC to buttress its allegation. We have provided evidence to the Election Commission. There are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the state. These are not merely mistakes. The lists have been deliberately altered at the behest of BJP government in the state,&nbspCongress's Kamal Nath said. The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred. After reaching the state tomorrow, the teams would also fix responsibility for multiple and fake entries, EC said.

Election Commission orders probe into 'anomalies' in Madhya Pradesh voters' list

In a latest dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi called him out saying that the interviews he&nbsp;gives are pre-scripted.&nbsp;

Sharing a video of PM Modi in Singapore, Rahul Gandhi alleged that PM Modi was the first Indian 'PM who ‘took spontaneous questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to’.

He wrote on Twitter: “The first Indian PM who takes "spontaneous" questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to! Good that he doesn't take real questions. Would have been a real embarrassment to us all if he did.” &nbsp;

The video was of an interview PM Modi had given at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) last Friday where he was seen answering a question about the challenges faced by Asia.&nbsp;

After PM Modi finished answering in Hindi, his translator then took out a piece of paper and read the same answer in English for the audience which also included facts that PM Modi's answer did not mention.&nbsp;

The Congress has often attacked PM Modi for not holding press conferences and only giving one-on-one interviews and has also said that PM Modi has time and again refused to answer "real questions" posed by opposition leaders and other.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The first Indian PM who takes "spontaneous" questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to! 
 
Good that he doesn't take real questions. Would have been a real embarrassment to us all if he did. <a href="https://t.co/8Iyfgiaseh">pic.twitter.com/8Iyfgiaseh</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1003557365646389249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Sharing a video of PM Modi in Singapore, Rahul Gandhi alleged that PM Modi was the first Indian 'PM who takes 'spontaneous' questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to!’

In a latest dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi called him out saying that the interviews he gives are pre-scripted. Sharing a video of PM Modi in Singapore, Rahul Gandhi alleged that PM Modi was the first Indian 'PM who ‘took spontaneous questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to’. He wrote on Twitter: “The first Indian PM who takes "spontaneous" questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to! Good that he doesn't take real questions. Would have been a real embarrassment to us all if he did.” The video was of an interview PM Modi had given at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) last Friday where he was seen answering a question about the challenges faced by Asia. After PM Modi finished answering in Hindi, his translator then took out a piece of paper and read the same answer in English for the audience which also included facts that PM Modi's answer did not mention. The Congress has often attacked PM Modi for not holding press conferences and only giving one-on-one interviews and has also said that PM Modi has time and again refused to answer "real questions" posed by opposition leaders and other. The first Indian PM who takes "spontaneous" questions that the translator has pre-scripted answers to! Good that he doesn't take real questions. Would have been a real embarrassment to us all if he did. pic.twitter.com/8Iyfgiaseh — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 4, 2018 ×

Watch: PM Modi 'doesn't take real questions', says Rahul Gandhi

After facing consistent losses in the recent elections, the Bhartiya Janata Party leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has hinted on forming new alliance ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Admitting the same, the Union Minister said on Sunday that the recent electoral reverses have affected the BJP and the party would go for new alliance if a need arises.

He added that their party has not put up a "no-entry" sign and will go for new allies if party needs. He also said that they would want the existing allies to stay with the party.

Referring to the TDP, he said that the party was also ready to accept the alliance parties who have left the NDA recently.

Naqvi said that the BJP was committed to alliance partners from the time of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

He said the recent defeat in the&nbsp;bypolls in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and other states have impacted the party and also taught them a lesson.

He said that now that the party was aware of the strategy of the opposition, it would be easier for them to contest the polls against them. 
&nbsp;

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the recent defeat in the bypolls in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and other states have impacted the party and also taught them a lesson

After facing consistent losses in the recent elections, the Bhartiya Janata Party leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has hinted on forming new alliance ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Admitting the same, the Union Minister said on Sunday that the recent electoral reverses have affected the BJP and the party would go for new alliance if a need arises. He added that their party has not put up a "no-entry" sign and will go for new allies if party needs. He also said that they would want the existing allies to stay with the party. Referring to the TDP, he said that the party was also ready to accept the alliance parties who have left the NDA recently. Naqvi said that the BJP was committed to alliance partners from the time of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He said the recent defeat in the bypolls in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and other states have impacted the party and also taught them a lesson. He said that now that the party was aware of the strategy of the opposition, it would be easier for them to contest the polls against them.

Will go for new alliance if need arises: BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

Sachin Pilot is President of the Rajasthan Congress Committee. He has been a two-term MP and also served as a minister of state under Manmohan Singh.

He lost his Lok Sabha seat in the Modi wave of 2014. Since then he has kept his focus on Rajasthan, even relocating to the state.

Today, with an assembly election coming up, the Congress is on a strong wicket in the state. It is the BJP government that will have to fight anti-incumbency. The Congress did very well in the recent by-elections and Sachin says the BJP will be defeated in Rajasthan. His entire interview with WION follows:&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
 
WION: How has the Rajasthan government handled the farmer unrest and the debt issue? 
Sachin Pilot: 150 farmers have already committed suicide in the state. Farmers'&nbsp;distress today stands at its worst stage. The state government has turned a blind eye to the farmers'&nbsp;problem. Unavailability of water and seeds compounded with debt management has broken farmers back in the last 3 years. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you think rural distress as an issue can also resonate in Madhya Pradesh? 
Sachin Pilot: Both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are suffering from massive agrarian distress. Both are agriculture based states and a large part of population depends on it. BJP has not paid sufficient attention to the farmers. Congress too has not forgotten Mandasaur incident. It is for this reason Congress President Rahul Gandhi visited the place to mark death anniversary of the farmers who were shot while agitating. I feel this resentment will express itself during the time of vote. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is Kairana a roadmap for the Opposition for the coming Lok Sabha elections? 
Sachin Pilot: To an extent but every state has a different dynamic and tieups will happen keeping that in mind. Mrs Gandhi had recently organised a meet of 17 parties. Subsequently we saw a realignment in Uttar Pradesh. But we should not forget that Congress is the only party which can nationally mount a challenge against BJP. For any anti-BJP alliance, Congress will have to be in the pivot position. Political players to come together on a platform like this will have to give up personal interests. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What about states like Rajasthan where Congress does not need an alliance? Will the Kairana model be applicable there? 
Sachin Pilot: Rajasthan is a two-party state. Elections are fought between BJP and Congress. Our party does not need any alliance in the state. We will defeat BJP on our strength. Rajasthan bypolls have shown as to how weak BJP has become in the state. Lot of like-minded people in Rajasthan are coming together to fight BJP. Tribals, Dalits and farmers have received a raw deal under the Rajasthan government. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Congress is refocusing on OBC vote. Historically, after Charan Singh’s exit from Congress, OBC votes remained with the Opposition parties then and now rests with BJP and regional setups. How do you expect Congress to catch up? 
Sachin Pilot: It is never too late. Congress is a rainbow party. I will not deny that strong OBC leadership in recent past have emanated from regional parties. It is a talented community and Congress will be building its fresh leadership in the party. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: You said Dalits have got a raw deal in Rajasthan but if you look at the Karnataka results, BJP has not done badly in reserved constituencies. 
Sachin Pilot: I’m not an expert on Karnataka. In north India, atrocities against Dalits have increased manifold. Dalit community is very vulnerable today. They have been at the receiving end and in many states, videos of violence against them have also come up. So, there is a huge turnaround of the Dalit community in north India. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Can we say that Sachin Pilot is the CM candidate? 
Sachin Pilot: No. It all depends on the Congress President Rahul Gandhi. My job is to fight election. We will fight elections collectively. I have received support from everyone and it is for this reason that Congress gave impressive results in Rajasthan. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How is your relation with Ashok Gehlot? (Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan CMAshok Gehlot has been moved to Delhi and made a General Secretary of the party.)&nbsp; 
Sachin Pilot: I have a very good relationship with Ashok Gehlot. I have good relationship with everyone in the Rajasthan Congress. Ashok Gehlot and many other senior leaders have done good work in the state. Now he has a new assignment as General Secretary of the Congress Party. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Congress has built a strong anti-Modi campaign but you have not come out with alternative ideas and a positive theme. Why? 
Sachin Pilot: &nbsp;Tall promises were made by Narendra Modi and not us in 2014. We are doing the correct thing by asking questions. We are exposing BJP by asking questions as everyone knows that promises have not been kept. We are not being just critical. We are making BJP accountable. And Congress too will have a positive campaign. Let the time come.

The recent Rajasthan bypolls have shown how weak the BJP has become in the state, Pilot said. Rajasthan will go to the polls in 2018

Sachin Pilot is President of the Rajasthan Congress Committee. He has been a two-term MP and also served as a minister of state under Manmohan Singh. He lost his Lok Sabha seat in the Modi wave of 2014. Since then he has kept his focus on Rajasthan, even relocating to the state. Today, with an assembly election coming up, the Congress is on a strong wicket in the state. It is the BJP government that will have to fight anti-incumbency. The Congress did very well in the recent by-elections and Sachin says the BJP will be defeated in Rajasthan. His entire interview with WION follows: WION: How has the Rajasthan government handled the farmer unrest and the debt issue? Sachin Pilot: 150 farmers have already committed suicide in the state. Farmers' distress today stands at its worst stage. The state government has turned a blind eye to the farmers' problem. Unavailability of water and seeds compounded with debt management has broken farmers back in the last 3 years. WION: Do you think rural distress as an issue can also resonate in Madhya Pradesh? Sachin Pilot: Both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are suffering from massive agrarian distress. Both are agriculture based states and a large part of population depends on it. BJP has not paid sufficient attention to the farmers. Congress too has not forgotten Mandasaur incident. It is for this reason Congress President Rahul Gandhi visited the place to mark death anniversary of the farmers who were shot while agitating. I feel this resentment will express itself during the time of vote. WION: Is Kairana a roadmap for the Opposition for the coming Lok Sabha elections? Sachin Pilot: To an extent but every state has a different dynamic and tieups will happen keeping that in mind. Mrs Gandhi had recently organised a meet of 17 parties. Subsequently we saw a realignment in Uttar Pradesh. But we should not forget that Congress is the only party which can nationally mount a challenge against BJP. For any anti-BJP alliance, Congress will have to be in the pivot position. Political players to come together on a platform like this will have to give up personal interests. WION: What about states like Rajasthan where Congress does not need an alliance? Will the Kairana model be applicable there? Sachin Pilot: Rajasthan is a two-party state. Elections are fought between BJP and Congress. Our party does not need any alliance in the state. We will defeat BJP on our strength. Rajasthan bypolls have shown as to how weak BJP has become in the state. Lot of like-minded people in Rajasthan are coming together to fight BJP. Tribals, Dalits and farmers have received a raw deal under the Rajasthan government. WION: Congress is refocusing on OBC vote. Historically, after Charan Singh’s exit from Congress, OBC votes remained with the Opposition parties then and now rests with BJP and regional setups. How do you expect Congress to catch up? Sachin Pilot: It is never too late. Congress is a rainbow party. I will not deny that strong OBC leadership in recent past have emanated from regional parties. It is a talented community and Congress will be building its fresh leadership in the party. WION: You said Dalits have got a raw deal in Rajasthan but if you look at the Karnataka results, BJP has not done badly in reserved constituencies. Sachin Pilot: I’m not an expert on Karnataka. In north India, atrocities against Dalits have increased manifold. Dalit community is very vulnerable today. They have been at the receiving end and in many states, videos of violence against them have also come up. So, there is a huge turnaround of the Dalit community in north India. WION: Can we say that Sachin Pilot is the CM candidate? Sachin Pilot: No. It all depends on the Congress President Rahul Gandhi. My job is to fight election. We will fight elections collectively. I have received support from everyone and it is for this reason that Congress gave impressive results in Rajasthan. WION: How is your relation with Ashok Gehlot? (Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan CMAshok Gehlot has been moved to Delhi and made a General Secretary of the party.) Sachin Pilot: I have a very good relationship with Ashok Gehlot. I have good relationship with everyone in the Rajasthan Congress. Ashok Gehlot and many other senior leaders have done good work in the state. Now he has a new assignment as General Secretary of the Congress Party. WION: Congress has built a strong anti-Modi campaign but you have not come out with alternative ideas and a positive theme. Why? Sachin Pilot: Tall promises were made by Narendra Modi and not us in 2014. We are doing the correct thing by asking questions. We are exposing BJP by asking questions as everyone knows that promises have not been kept. We are not being just critical. We are making BJP accountable. And Congress too will have a positive campaign. Let the time come.

Congress does not need an alliance in Rajasthan, will beat BJP on its own: Sachin Pilot to WION

A day after farmers across the country initiated a 10-day nationwide protest,&nbsp;Congress president Rahul Gandhi has decided to join the protest on June 6.

He took to Twitter and announced on Saturday, " About thirty-five farmers commit suicide in our country every day. The farmers are forced to stage a protest for 10 days to bring the issue of agricultural crisis to the centre's notice. I will address the farmers rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on June 6 to participate in the&nbsp;farmers' fight".

Gandhi&nbsp;will address the farmers&nbsp;in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on the anniversary of the death of seven farmers in police firing in the state.

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike and they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbsp;

The strike was organised by farmers from Punjab and Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala&nbsp;demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price for their produce and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission,

The farmers'&nbsp;body will also&nbsp;orgainse a "Bharat Bandh" on June 10.

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हमारे देश में हर रोज़ 35 किसान आत्महत्या करते हैं। कृषि क्षेत्र पर छाए संकट की तरफ़ केंद्र सरकार का ध्यान ले जाने के लिए किसान भाई 10 दिनों का आंदोलन करने पर मजबूर हैं। हमारे अन्नदाताओं की हक की लड़ाई में उनके साथ खड़े होने के लिए 6 जून को मंदसौर में किसान रैली को संबोधित करूंगा। <a href="https://t.co/Bv4Hv72jE8">pic.twitter.com/Bv4Hv72jE8</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1002843619382841344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Seven farmers had been shot dead by police in Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur on June 6 last year. The farmers had been agitating for better prices for their crops

A day after farmers across the country initiated a 10-day nationwide protest, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has decided to join the protest on June 6. He took to Twitter and announced on Saturday, " About thirty-five farmers commit suicide in our country every day. The farmers are forced to stage a protest for 10 days to bring the issue of agricultural crisis to the centre's notice. I will address the farmers rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on June 6 to participate in the farmers' fight". Gandhi will address the farmers in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on the anniversary of the death of seven farmers in police firing in the state. Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike and they would not sell their produce in cities. The strike was organised by farmers from Punjab and Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price for their produce and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission, The farmers' body will also orgainse a "Bharat Bandh" on June 10. हमारे देश में हर रोज़ 35 किसान आत्महत्या करते हैं। कृषि क्षेत्र पर छाए संकट की तरफ़ केंद्र सरकार का ध्यान ले जाने के लिए किसान भाई 10 दिनों का आंदोलन करने पर मजबूर हैं। हमारे अन्नदाताओं की हक की लड़ाई में उनके साथ खड़े होने के लिए 6 जून को मंदसौर में किसान रैली को संबोधित करूंगा। pic.twitter.com/Bv4Hv72jE8 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 2, 2018 ×

Rahul Gandhi to address farmers' protest on June 6 in Mandsaur, MP

The Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka have announced the allocation of portfolios to its cabinet.

The Congress has retained the Home, Irrigation, Agriculture, Industry, Urban Development and the Health Ministry. The JD(S) on the other hand has been given the charge of Finance and Excise, PWD, Education, Transport Tourism.

In all the Congress takes over 22 ministries while the JD(S) gets 12 ministries.

The two parties were reportedly undergoing a tussle in the allocation of the Finance Ministry, which has been finally given to the JD(S).

While addressing the press conference Congress leader KC Venugopal has also clarified that the two parties will fight the Lok Sabha polls together.

He said,&nbsp;"Congress and JDS will fight the 2019 Lok Sabha elections as part of alliance".

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy has said that the expansion of ministry will take place on June 6.

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Congress and JDS will fight the 2019 Lok Sabha elections as part of alliance: KC Venugopal,Congress <a href="https://t.co/DKQvzA1jVV">pic.twitter.com/DKQvzA1jVV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002511221952843777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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We(Congress-JDS) have come to a conclusion regarding cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation. JDS will be holding the finance portfolio. Everything is settled: KC Venugopal,Congress <a href="https://t.co/JI4u6KlLMu">pic.twitter.com/JI4u6KlLMu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002510478592094208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The two parties were reportedly undergoing a tussle in the allocation of the Finance Ministry, which has been finally given to the JD(S)

The Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka have announced the allocation of portfolios to its cabinet. The Congress has retained the Home, Irrigation, Agriculture, Industry, Urban Development and the Health Ministry. The JD(S) on the other hand has been given the charge of Finance and Excise, PWD, Education, Transport Tourism. In all the Congress takes over 22 ministries while the JD(S) gets 12 ministries. The two parties were reportedly undergoing a tussle in the allocation of the Finance Ministry, which has been finally given to the JD(S). While addressing the press conference Congress leader KC Venugopal has also clarified that the two parties will fight the Lok Sabha polls together. He said, "Congress and JDS will fight the 2019 Lok Sabha elections as part of alliance". Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy has said that the expansion of ministry will take place on June 6. Congress and JDS will fight the 2019 Lok Sabha elections as part of alliance: KC Venugopal,Congress pic.twitter.com/DKQvzA1jVV — ANI (@ANI) June 1, 2018 × We(Congress-JDS) have come to a conclusion regarding cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation. JDS will be holding the finance portfolio. Everything is settled: KC Venugopal,Congress pic.twitter.com/JI4u6KlLMu — ANI (@ANI) June 1, 2018 ×

Congress-JD(S) to fight 2019 Lok Sabha polls together, announce cabinet portfolios in Karnataka

Dealing a body blow to the ruling BJP, opposition parties on Thursday emerged victorious in 9 out of 10 Assembly seats even as the BJP asserted that the PM -- which it described as 'P' for performance and&nbsp; 'M' for Mehnat (hard work) -- would decide the Lok Sabha polls next year.

Figures for the 10 assembly bypolls came as a big setback for the ruling party which could win just one (in Uttarakhand). The Congress bagged three (in Meghalaya, Karnataka and Punjab) and others got six -- JMM two in Jharkhand CPI (M), SP, RJD and Trinamool one each in Kerala, UP, Bihar and West Bengal, respectively.

The Congress also won one assembly seat in Maharashtra without contest after all other parties withdrew their candidates.

The party, which retained RR Nagar assembly in Karnataka and another in Meghalaya, termed the bypoll results as the people's mandate against four years of the Modi rule and the beginning of the end of the BJP empire.

"The writing on the wall is clear. The BJP's exit and success of the Congress and its allies are guaranteed," Congress leader Pramod Tiwari told reporters.

The BJP and its allies failed to retain Noorpur in UP and Shahkot in Punjab, while Congress, CPI (M), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Trinamool retained their respective seats.

The BJP retained Tharali in Uttarakhand, but lost Noorpur in UP. SP's Naeemul Hasan trounced BJP's Avni Singh in Noorpur.

In Bihar, RJD won minority-dominated Jokihat by defeating BJP ally JD(U) by a huge margin.&nbsp;

A buoyed Tejashwi Yadav of RJD said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who dumped the RJD and Congress last year to join hands with the BJP to form a new coalition government in the state, should resign if he has some conscience left.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi congratulating all the winners said valuable lessions to be learnt from the victories and defeats for all the parties.

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Congratulations to all the winners in the by polls, across India. Valuable lessons to be learnt from the victories & defeats for all parties. I want to thank all the workers & leaders of the Congress party for their hard work & dedication in these elections. God bless you all.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1002206574918688768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said one has to take two steps backward before a big leap and the BJP is "going to take a massive leap."

BJP's Subramanian Swamy, however, had a word of caution for the party and said the "this huge setback in by polls is due to Hubris".

"But the trend is easily reversible if party stops rewarding sycophancy and has more participatory decision-making ethos amongst those leaders whom the public find credible. BJP has the infrastructure to bounce back but needs a new ethos," he said.

AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the results reflect the anger against the Modi government.

Former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav called the results "a defeat of divisive politics" and congratulated all opposition parties for the results.&nbsp;

RLD's Jayant Chaudhary said the opposition unity will continue and the results showed that "Jinnah hara, Ganna jeeta" -- referring to the recent controversy over the Pakistan founder's portrait and the problems being faced by sugarcane farmers.

CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechuri said BJP's loss at its "laboratory of communal and hate politics", Kairana, clearly showed that people did not accept the ruling party's politics but warned that the loss could push the RSS-BJP to spread communal tensions to consolidate the "Hindutva vote bank".

In Punjab, Congress' Hardev Singh Ladi wrested Shahkot from the Shiromani Akali Dal.&nbsp;

Trinamool's Dulal Das won Maheshtala bypoll in West Bengal, defeating BJP's Sujit Kumar Ghosh. The Left came third.

In Kerala, Left's Saji Cheriyan won Chengannur bypoll. The Congress came second and the BJP third.

JMM retained Silli and Gomia seats in Jharkhand. In Gomia, JMM's Babita Devi defeated AJSU nominee Lambodar Mahto, while BJP came third. In Silli, JMM's Seema Mahto defeated AJSU chief Sudesh Mahto.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

The Congress also won one assembly seat in Maharashtra without contest after all other parties withdrew their candidates.

Dealing a body blow to the ruling BJP, opposition parties on Thursday emerged victorious in 9 out of 10 Assembly seats even as the BJP asserted that the PM -- which it described as 'P' for performance and 'M' for Mehnat (hard work) -- would decide the Lok Sabha polls next year. Figures for the 10 assembly bypolls came as a big setback for the ruling party which could win just one (in Uttarakhand). The Congress bagged three (in Meghalaya, Karnataka and Punjab) and others got six -- JMM two in Jharkhand CPI (M), SP, RJD and Trinamool one each in Kerala, UP, Bihar and West Bengal, respectively. The Congress also won one assembly seat in Maharashtra without contest after all other parties withdrew their candidates. The party, which retained RR Nagar assembly in Karnataka and another in Meghalaya, termed the bypoll results as the people's mandate against four years of the Modi rule and the beginning of the end of the BJP empire. "The writing on the wall is clear. The BJP's exit and success of the Congress and its allies are guaranteed," Congress leader Pramod Tiwari told reporters. The BJP and its allies failed to retain Noorpur in UP and Shahkot in Punjab, while Congress, CPI (M), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Trinamool retained their respective seats. The BJP retained Tharali in Uttarakhand, but lost Noorpur in UP. SP's Naeemul Hasan trounced BJP's Avni Singh in Noorpur. In Bihar, RJD won minority-dominated Jokihat by defeating BJP ally JD(U) by a huge margin. A buoyed Tejashwi Yadav of RJD said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who dumped the RJD and Congress last year to join hands with the BJP to form a new coalition government in the state, should resign if he has some conscience left. Congress president Rahul Gandhi congratulating all the winners said valuable lessions to be learnt from the victories and defeats for all the parties. Congratulations to all the winners in the by polls, across India. Valuable lessons to be learnt from the victories & defeats for all parties. I want to thank all the workers & leaders of the Congress party for their hard work & dedication in these elections. God bless you all. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 31, 2018 × Senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said one has to take two steps backward before a big leap and the BJP is "going to take a massive leap." BJP's Subramanian Swamy, however, had a word of caution for the party and said the "this huge setback in by polls is due to Hubris". "But the trend is easily reversible if party stops rewarding sycophancy and has more participatory decision-making ethos amongst those leaders whom the public find credible. BJP has the infrastructure to bounce back but needs a new ethos," he said. AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the results reflect the anger against the Modi government. Former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav called the results "a defeat of divisive politics" and congratulated all opposition parties for the results. RLD's Jayant Chaudhary said the opposition unity will continue and the results showed that "Jinnah hara, Ganna jeeta" -- referring to the recent controversy over the Pakistan founder's portrait and the problems being faced by sugarcane farmers. CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechuri said BJP's loss at its "laboratory of communal and hate politics", Kairana, clearly showed that people did not accept the ruling party's politics but warned that the loss could push the RSS-BJP to spread communal tensions to consolidate the "Hindutva vote bank". In Punjab, Congress' Hardev Singh Ladi wrested Shahkot from the Shiromani Akali Dal. Trinamool's Dulal Das won Maheshtala bypoll in West Bengal, defeating BJP's Sujit Kumar Ghosh. The Left came third. In Kerala, Left's Saji Cheriyan won Chengannur bypoll. The Congress came second and the BJP third. JMM retained Silli and Gomia seats in Jharkhand. In Gomia, JMM's Babita Devi defeated AJSU nominee Lambodar Mahto, while BJP came third. In Silli, JMM's Seema Mahto defeated AJSU chief Sudesh Mahto. (With PTI inputs)

Assembly bypoll results: Opposition scoops 9 leaving one seat to BJP

In a big setback to the ruling BJP, opposition parties on Thursday won two out of four Lok Sabha seats strengthening non-BJP unity in the run-up to the 2019 general elections. BJP retained one seat and its ally Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) won the Nagaland Lok Sabha bypoll.

With prestige at stake in every single bypoll, the BJP was seen losing the high-profile Kairana Lok Sabha seat in politically important Uttar Pradesh to a united Opposition after a communally-charged election campaign, while similar appeared the result for Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha constituency in Maharashtra, as per the trends and results announced by the Election Commission.

United opposition&nbsp;candidate Rashtriya Lok Dal's Tabassum Hasan, who was supported by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party,&nbsp;won the Kairana seat by a margin of 44,618 votes

However, the BJP retained another Lok Sabha seat from Maharashtra, Palghar, where it had faced a challenge from its own ally Shiv Sena but the Opposition could not pose a united fight. BJP's Rajendra Gavit won the seat, defeating Shiv Sena's Shrinivas Wanaga by 29574 votes.

The fourth Lok Sabha seat, Nagaland, for which bypoll was held earlier this week appeared to be going in favour of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), a BJP allly in the northeastern state.

The results appeared more slanted against the BJP after taking into account the parties that had won these seats before bypolls were necessitated. While the BJP alliance was seen retaining two Lok Sabha seats -- one in Maharashtra and another in Nagaland -- it failed to retain two others -- UP's Kairana and Maharashtra's Palghar.

Commenting on the results, senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said one has to take two steps backward before a big leap.

Asked about the BJP's performance in these by-elections ahead of next year's general polls, Singh said, "For a massive leap, one always has to go two steps backward."

"We are going to take a massive leap," he added.

AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal latched onto the bypoll results to attack the BJP and said it reflects the anger against the Modi government.

The trends from UP showed the biggest electoral upset for the BJP with the joint opposition candidate, RLD's Tabassum Hasan, leading by a big margin in Kairana Lok Sabha constituency.

&nbsp;The seat fell vacant following the death of the BJP candidate Mriganka Singh's father, Hukum Singh.

Rashtriya Lok Dal's Tabassum Hasan, supported by the Congress, Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, established an early lead over Mriganka Singh right from the beginning to establish an almost invincible lead by noon.

In Maharashtra, the BJP retained Palghar but was staring at defeat in the Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha constituency, which the BJP had won in the 2014 elections. The NCP's Madhukar Kukade was leading over the BJP's Hemant Patel, as per latest trends.&nbsp;

The announcement of results was not without controversies. While repolling was held in few polling booths due to EVMs failures, on the counting, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that said that there were some discrepancies in counting and appealed to the Election Commission to announce the results after those discrepancies are sorted out. However, Election Commission rejected the request and issued the victory certificate to the BJP candidate, Rajendra Gavit.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

The BJP retained another Lok Sabha seat from Maharashtra, Palghar, where it had faced a challenge from its own ally Shiv Sena

In a big setback to the ruling BJP, opposition parties on Thursday won two out of four Lok Sabha seats strengthening non-BJP unity in the run-up to the 2019 general elections. BJP retained one seat and its ally Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) won the Nagaland Lok Sabha bypoll. With prestige at stake in every single bypoll, the BJP was seen losing the high-profile Kairana Lok Sabha seat in politically important Uttar Pradesh to a united Opposition after a communally-charged election campaign, while similar appeared the result for Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha constituency in Maharashtra, as per the trends and results announced by the Election Commission. United opposition candidate Rashtriya Lok Dal's Tabassum Hasan, who was supported by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, won the Kairana seat by a margin of 44,618 votes However, the BJP retained another Lok Sabha seat from Maharashtra, Palghar, where it had faced a challenge from its own ally Shiv Sena but the Opposition could not pose a united fight. BJP's Rajendra Gavit won the seat, defeating Shiv Sena's Shrinivas Wanaga by 29574 votes. The fourth Lok Sabha seat, Nagaland, for which bypoll was held earlier this week appeared to be going in favour of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), a BJP allly in the northeastern state. The results appeared more slanted against the BJP after taking into account the parties that had won these seats before bypolls were necessitated. While the BJP alliance was seen retaining two Lok Sabha seats -- one in Maharashtra and another in Nagaland -- it failed to retain two others -- UP's Kairana and Maharashtra's Palghar. Commenting on the results, senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said one has to take two steps backward before a big leap. Asked about the BJP's performance in these by-elections ahead of next year's general polls, Singh said, "For a massive leap, one always has to go two steps backward." "We are going to take a massive leap," he added. AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal latched onto the bypoll results to attack the BJP and said it reflects the anger against the Modi government. The trends from UP showed the biggest electoral upset for the BJP with the joint opposition candidate, RLD's Tabassum Hasan, leading by a big margin in Kairana Lok Sabha constituency. The seat fell vacant following the death of the BJP candidate Mriganka Singh's father, Hukum Singh. Rashtriya Lok Dal's Tabassum Hasan, supported by the Congress, Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, established an early lead over Mriganka Singh right from the beginning to establish an almost invincible lead by noon. In Maharashtra, the BJP retained Palghar but was staring at defeat in the Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha constituency, which the BJP had won in the 2014 elections. The NCP's Madhukar Kukade was leading over the BJP's Hemant Patel, as per latest trends. The announcement of results was not without controversies. While repolling was held in few polling booths due to EVMs failures, on the counting, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that said that there were some discrepancies in counting and appealed to the Election Commission to announce the results after those discrepancies are sorted out. However, Election Commission rejected the request and issued the victory certificate to the BJP candidate, Rajendra Gavit. (With PTI inputs)

Lok Sabha bypoll results: Opposition snatches Kairana from BJP, NCP wins Bhandara-Gondiya

Counting of votes began in&nbsp;10 assembly constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Kerala, Meghalaya, Punjab and Uttarakhand.

In a new twist, Congress' Miani D Shira won from&nbsp;Meghalaya's Ampati Assembly constituency as the grand old party emerged as the single largest party in the state.

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Congress candidate Miani D Shira wins Ampati seat in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>. She is the daughter of Former CM and Congress leader Mukul Sangma <a href="https://t.co/fLkwk9SVrp">pic.twitter.com/fLkwk9SVrp</a>
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Congress candidate Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam was "elected unopposed" from Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon Assembly constituency.

In the high profile Rajarajeshwari(RR) Nagar Assembly constituency in Karnataka, Congress candidate Muniratna beat his JD(S) and BJP rivals handsomely even as newly-elected Karnataka chief minister Kumaraswamy conceded defeat.

Muniratna won by 41,162 votes to upset the JD(S) and the BJP.

Lalu Prasad's party the Rashtriya Janta Dal(RJD) won the Jokihat Assembly constituency in Bihar even after&nbsp;JD(U) candidate Murshid Alam led in previous rounds.

Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party(SP) clinched the Noorpur Assembly constituency in Uttar Pradesh with Naim-ul-Hasan emerging victorious.

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The number of votes JDU got, is less than our victory margin. People of Bihar are continuing to avenge the uturn taken by Nitish Kumar: Tejashwi Yadav on RJD won Jokihat assembly bypoll <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/ljVXanHJ06">pic.twitter.com/ljVXanHJ06</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002091207068127232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a>: Congress workers celebrate in Bengaluru as Party leads from Rajarajeshwari Nagar assembly constituency <a href="https://t.co/vmlBSkeToq">pic.twitter.com/vmlBSkeToq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002068603783397377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In other constituencies, CPM won the Chengannur Assembly constituency in Kerala. The&nbsp;Jharkhand Mukti Morcha(JMM) surprised the ruling BJP in the state to clinch the Jharkhand seat.&nbsp;

Congress candidate Laddi Sherowalia won from the Shahkot Assembly seat in Punjab.

TMC's Dulal Chandra Das is leading by over 20,000 votes from Maheshtala assembly constituency in West Bengal after the sixth round of counting with CPM second and BJP trailing in third spot.

Congress' Miani D Shira won the Meghalaya's Ampati Assembly constituency early

Counting of votes began in 10 assembly constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Kerala, Meghalaya, Punjab and Uttarakhand. In a new twist, Congress' Miani D Shira won from Meghalaya's Ampati Assembly constituency as the grand old party emerged as the single largest party in the state. Congress candidate Miani D Shira wins Ampati seat in #Meghalaya. She is the daughter of Former CM and Congress leader Mukul Sangma pic.twitter.com/fLkwk9SVrp — ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2018 × Congress candidate Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam was "elected unopposed" from Maharashtra's Palus Kadegaon Assembly constituency. In the high profile Rajarajeshwari(RR) Nagar Assembly constituency in Karnataka, Congress candidate Muniratna beat his JD(S) and BJP rivals handsomely even as newly-elected Karnataka chief minister Kumaraswamy conceded defeat. Muniratna won by 41,162 votes to upset the JD(S) and the BJP. Lalu Prasad's party the Rashtriya Janta Dal(RJD) won the Jokihat Assembly constituency in Bihar even after JD(U) candidate Murshid Alam led in previous rounds. Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party(SP) clinched the Noorpur Assembly constituency in Uttar Pradesh with Naim-ul-Hasan emerging victorious. The number of votes JDU got, is less than our victory margin. People of Bihar are continuing to avenge the uturn taken by Nitish Kumar: Tejashwi Yadav on RJD won Jokihat assembly bypoll #Bihar pic.twitter.com/ljVXanHJ06 — ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2018 × #Karnataka: Congress workers celebrate in Bengaluru as Party leads from Rajarajeshwari Nagar assembly constituency pic.twitter.com/vmlBSkeToq — ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2018 × In other constituencies, CPM won the Chengannur Assembly constituency in Kerala. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha(JMM) surprised the ruling BJP in the state to clinch the Jharkhand seat. Congress candidate Laddi Sherowalia won from the Shahkot Assembly seat in Punjab. TMC's Dulal Chandra Das is leading by over 20,000 votes from Maheshtala assembly constituency in West Bengal after the sixth round of counting with CPM second and BJP trailing in third spot.

Assembly bypolls: Congress wins in Karnataka's RR Nagar; RJD wins Jokihat in Bihar

Karnataka chief minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said that he had come to power in the state with the blessing Congress president Rahul Gandhi, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy made the statement while speaking at a meeting with the&nbsp;farmer leaders on farm loan waiter. &nbsp;

''Without the blessing of people, but only with the blessing of Rahul Gandhi, we've come to power. I'll convince Congress party, but I can only take the decision once they approve,'' he was quoted as saying by ANI.

Earlier on Sunday, he said that he had formed a coalition government with Congress because people had not given him a clear mandate.&nbsp;

He further said, "some people were alleging me that I said that I will never form the government with any of the parties support. It is true that in the past whatever we said that will not be applicable in the present political scenario and I formed the government in coalition with Congress because people of Karnataka did not give me a clear mandate that is why I'm in the debt to the Congress and not to the people of the state."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: At meeting with farmer leaders, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> CM HD Kumaraswamy speaks on farmers' loan waiver, says, 'Without the blessing of people, but only with blessing of Rahul Gandhi, we've come to power. I'll convince Congress party, but I can only take decision once they approve.' <a href="https://t.co/VQiNuPA9oN">pic.twitter.com/VQiNuPA9oN</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1001792494420537344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

At meeting with farmer leaders, Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy was speaking about farm loan waiver

Karnataka chief minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday said that he had come to power in the state with the blessing Congress president Rahul Gandhi, news agency ANI reported. Kumaraswamy made the statement while speaking at a meeting with the farmer leaders on farm loan waiter. ''Without the blessing of people, but only with the blessing of Rahul Gandhi, we've come to power. I'll convince Congress party, but I can only take the decision once they approve,'' he was quoted as saying by ANI. Earlier on Sunday, he said that he had formed a coalition government with Congress because people had not given him a clear mandate. He further said, "some people were alleging me that I said that I will never form the government with any of the parties support. It is true that in the past whatever we said that will not be applicable in the present political scenario and I formed the government in coalition with Congress because people of Karnataka did not give me a clear mandate that is why I'm in the debt to the Congress and not to the people of the state." #WATCH: At meeting with farmer leaders, #Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy speaks on farmers' loan waiver, says, 'Without the blessing of people, but only with blessing of Rahul Gandhi, we've come to power. I'll convince Congress party, but I can only take decision once they approve.' pic.twitter.com/VQiNuPA9oN — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2018 ×

We've come to power only with blessing of Rahul Gandhi: Kumaraswamy

Congress Leader Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday wrote to former president Pranab Mukherjee requesting him to refrain from attending RSS event on June 7.

Chennithala said that he has been associated with the former <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/pranab-mukherjee-accepts-rss-invite-to-address-workers-in-nagpur-140462">president for many years</a>.

"I have been associated with him for many years, I am very concerned and surprised by his decision. RSS is always trying to divide the society," news agency ANI reported quoting&nbsp;Chennithala.&nbsp;

The former president kicked up a controversy recently after he accepted an invitation to address the newly-recruited RSS workers on June 7 in Nagpur.

The former president will be the chief guest at the valedictory session of the "Tritiya Varsh Varg" or the Third Year Course organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in June this year.

The Sangh leadership invites eminent people for the annual event held at its headquarters at Reshim Bagh in Nagpur.

Earlier this year, Mukherjee had also invited top Sangh leaders at the launch of the Pranab Mukherjee Foundation here.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat had also called on Pranab Mukherjee during the last days of his tenure as President.

Pranab Mukherjee had also invited RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for lunch at Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

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Congress Leader Ramesh Chennithala wrote to former pres Pranab Mukherjee requesting him to refrain from attending RSS event on June 7, says, "I have been associated with him for many yrs, I am very concerned &surprised by his decision. RSS is always trying to divide the society." <a href="https://t.co/OSlQs69gPI">pic.twitter.com/OSlQs69gPI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1001784504262868992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The former president kicked up a controversy recently after he accepted an invitation to address the newly-recruited RSS workers on June 7 in Nagpur.

Congress Leader Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday wrote to former president Pranab Mukherjee requesting him to refrain from attending RSS event on June 7. Chennithala said that he has been associated with the former president for many years. "I have been associated with him for many years, I am very concerned and surprised by his decision. RSS is always trying to divide the society," news agency ANI reported quoting Chennithala. The former president kicked up a controversy recently after he accepted an invitation to address the newly-recruited RSS workers on June 7 in Nagpur. The former president will be the chief guest at the valedictory session of the "Tritiya Varsh Varg" or the Third Year Course organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in June this year. The Sangh leadership invites eminent people for the annual event held at its headquarters at Reshim Bagh in Nagpur. Earlier this year, Mukherjee had also invited top Sangh leaders at the launch of the Pranab Mukherjee Foundation here. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat had also called on Pranab Mukherjee during the last days of his tenure as President. Pranab Mukherjee had also invited RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for lunch at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Congress Leader Ramesh Chennithala wrote to former pres Pranab Mukherjee requesting him to refrain from attending RSS event on June 7, says, "I have been associated with him for many yrs, I am very concerned &surprised by his decision. RSS is always trying to divide the society." pic.twitter.com/OSlQs69gPI — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2018 ×

Congress leader urges Pranab Mukherjee not to attend RSS event

PM Modi today addressed the people on the government's Ujjwala Yogna scheme via the Namo App on Monday

The prime minister said the Ujjawala scheme is a sign of vikas&nbsp;(development) and is transforming lives, adding, "LPG has reformed our villages."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Modi's reaction when a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UjjwalaYojana?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UjjwalaYojana</a> beneficiary from Odisha's Mayurbhanj says she makes Maggi for her children using her new LPG connection. <a href="https://t.co/AkMaxLSTkO">pic.twitter.com/AkMaxLSTkO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1000963078064816129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Till 2014, 13 crore families got LPG connection. This means, for over six decades the figure stood at 13 crore," he said while pointing out that it was "mostly the rich people who got LPG connections."&nbsp;

"In the last 4 years, 10 crore new connections have been added and the poor benefited," the prime minister added.&nbsp;

"Our focus is on women empowerment," the PM said on the Namo App.&nbsp;

"We want to reach 10 crore&nbsp;people living below the poverty line(BPL)," the Indian prime minister said.&nbsp;

"The Ujjwala yojana has strengthened the lives of the poor, marginalised, the Dalits and tribal communities. This initiative is playing a central role in social empowerment," PM Modi said.

PM Modi today addressed the people on the government's Ujjwala Yogna scheme via the Namo App on Monday The prime minister said the Ujjawala scheme is a sign of vikas (development) and is transforming lives, adding, "LPG has reformed our villages." #WATCH: PM Modi's reaction when a #UjjwalaYojana beneficiary from Odisha's Mayurbhanj says she makes Maggi for her children using her new LPG connection. pic.twitter.com/AkMaxLSTkO — ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2018 × "Till 2014, 13 crore families got LPG connection. This means, for over six decades the figure stood at 13 crore," he said while pointing out that it was "mostly the rich people who got LPG connections." "In the last 4 years, 10 crore new connections have been added and the poor benefited," the prime minister added. "Our focus is on women empowerment," the PM said on the Namo App. "We want to reach 10 crore people living below the poverty line(BPL)," the Indian prime minister said. "The Ujjwala yojana has strengthened the lives of the poor, marginalised, the Dalits and tribal communities. This initiative is playing a central role in social empowerment," PM Modi said.

'LPG has reformed villages, our focus on women empowerment,' says PM Modi via Namo App

A Congress MLA Siddu Nyama Gowda passed away in a road accident near Tulasigere, Karnataka while he was on his way to Bagalkot from Goa.

The 67-year-old MLA's car had rammed into divider while trying to avoid a collision from a truck coming from the opposite side.&nbsp;

He died while he was on his way to the hospital after the accident.

The accident took place early in the morning around 4.30 am near Tulasigere.&nbsp;

He won election from Jamkhandi assembly seat as he defeated BJP's Kulkarni Shrikant Subrao in the recent Karnataka Assembly election.

Karnataka Congress tweeted a condolence message on its Twitter account.

"Deepest condolences on the passing away of our senior leader and Jamkhandi MLA, Shri Siddu B Nyamagouda. The Congress party stands by his family in this hour of grief," the tweet reads.

Former chief minister of the state also condoled his death on Twitter.

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ನಮ್ಮ ಪಕ್ಷದ ಶಾಸಕ ಸಿದ್ದುನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡ‌ ಅವರ‌‌ ಅಕಾಲಿಕ ಸಾವು ನನ್ನನ್ನು ಆಘಾತಕ್ಕೀಡು ಮಾಡಿದೆ. 'ಬ್ಯಾರೇಜ್ ಸಿದ್ದು' ಎಂದೇ ಜನಪ್ರಿಯರಾಗಿದ್ದ ಸಿದ್ದು ನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡ ಅವರು ಶಾಸಕ ಸಂಸದ, ಮತ್ತು ಕೇಂದ್ರ‌ ಸಚಿವರಾಗಿ ಜನ ಸದಾ ನೆನಪು ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವಂತಹ ಕೆಲಸ ಮಾಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸ್ನೇಹಿತ ಸಿದ್ದು ನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡರಿಗೆ‌ ನನ್ನ ದುಃಖ ತಪ್ತ ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾಂಜಲಿ. <a href="https://t.co/U8IZBKL3ql">pic.twitter.com/U8IZBKL3ql</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/1000926068004438016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress MLA Siddu Nyama Gowda passed away in a road accident near Tulasigeri. He was on his way from Goa to Bagalkot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/0V8R9spaHh">pic.twitter.com/0V8R9spaHh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1000912296586108928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Siddu Nyama Gowda died while he was on his way to the hospital after the accident

A Congress MLA Siddu Nyama Gowda passed away in a road accident near Tulasigere, Karnataka while he was on his way to Bagalkot from Goa. The 67-year-old MLA's car had rammed into divider while trying to avoid a collision from a truck coming from the opposite side. He died while he was on his way to the hospital after the accident. The accident took place early in the morning around 4.30 am near Tulasigere. He won election from Jamkhandi assembly seat as he defeated BJP's Kulkarni Shrikant Subrao in the recent Karnataka Assembly election. Karnataka Congress tweeted a condolence message on its Twitter account. "Deepest condolences on the passing away of our senior leader and Jamkhandi MLA, Shri Siddu B Nyamagouda. The Congress party stands by his family in this hour of grief," the tweet reads. Former chief minister of the state also condoled his death on Twitter. ನಮ್ಮ ಪಕ್ಷದ ಶಾಸಕ ಸಿದ್ದುನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡ‌ ಅವರ‌‌ ಅಕಾಲಿಕ ಸಾವು ನನ್ನನ್ನು ಆಘಾತಕ್ಕೀಡು ಮಾಡಿದೆ. 'ಬ್ಯಾರೇಜ್ ಸಿದ್ದು' ಎಂದೇ ಜನಪ್ರಿಯರಾಗಿದ್ದ ಸಿದ್ದು ನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡ ಅವರು ಶಾಸಕ ಸಂಸದ, ಮತ್ತು ಕೇಂದ್ರ‌ ಸಚಿವರಾಗಿ ಜನ ಸದಾ ನೆನಪು ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವಂತಹ ಕೆಲಸ ಮಾಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸ್ನೇಹಿತ ಸಿದ್ದು ನ್ಯಾಮಗೌಡರಿಗೆ‌ ನನ್ನ ದುಃಖ ತಪ್ತ ಶ್ರದ್ಧಾಂಜಲಿ. pic.twitter.com/U8IZBKL3ql — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) May 28, 2018 × Congress MLA Siddu Nyama Gowda passed away in a road accident near Tulasigeri. He was on his way from Goa to Bagalkot. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/0V8R9spaHh — ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2018 ×

Congress Karnataka MLA Siddu Nyama Gowda dies in road accident

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