Days after announcing the 2024 Lok Sabha election polling schedule the Election Commission has cracked its whip. This comes as the Supreme Court of India has refused to entertain please pleading to stay the recent appointments of Election Commissioners.

India elections 2024: IT Ministry directed to 'immediately halt' Viksit Bharat messages

<p>Following directives from the Indian Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has uploaded the electoral bonds data on its website. In adherence to the court's orders dated February 15 and March 11, 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI) provided the data to the ECI on March 12, 2024.</p>

<p>The ECI confirmed that the data was uploaded "as is where is basis" on its website. This comes as the Chairman of SBI filed a compliance affidavit on Wednesday (Mar 13), informing the Supreme Court about furnishing the electoral bonds details to the election commission.</p>

<p>“In compliance of Hon’ble Supreme Court's directions, contained in its order dated Feb 15 &amp; March 11, 2024 (in the matter of WPC NO.880 of 2017), the State Bank of India (SBI) had provided the data pertaining to the electoral bonds to the Election Commission of India (ECI) on March 12, 2024," the commission said in a statement on Thursday (Mar 14)</p>

<p>"The Election Commission of India has today uploaded the data on electoral bonds on its website as received from SBI on “as is where is basis". The data as received from SBI can be accessed at this url: https://www.eci.gov.in/candidate-politicalparty It may be recalled that in the said matter, ECI has consistently and categorically weighed in favour of disclosure and transparency, a position reflected in the proceedings of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and noted in the order also," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-tmc-releases-mamata-banerjees-hospital-pictures-after-major-head-injury-700148">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: TMC releases Mamata Banerjee's hospital pictures after major head injury</a></p>

<p>The affidavit submitted by the SBI chairman stated that the bank has provided details of “the date of purchase, denomination and name of buyer were recorded, and [in relation to the political parties] the date of encashment and the denominations of the bonds encashed were recorded”.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-calls-out-ajit-pawar-faction-for-using-sharad-pawars-images-stick-to-your-identity-700127">Supreme Court calls out Ajit Pawar faction for using Sharad Pawar's images; 'stick to your identity'</a></p>

<p>The data covers bonds purchased and redeemed between April 12, 2019, and February 15, 2024. The electoral bonds data was transferred to the ECI on a pen drive with two password-protected PDF documents, along with a separate envelope containing the passwords and a letter addressed to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.</p>

<h2><strong>What are electoral bonds?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Electoral bonds were introduced in 2017 by the Indian government as a means for individuals and organisations to donate money to political parties anonymously.&nbsp;These bonds are similar to promissory notes, allowing donors to purchase them from authorised banks.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-indian-politicians-and-their-superstitions-700122">India Elections 2024: Indian politicians and their superstitions</a></strong></p>

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<p>The donor can then donate these bonds to the political party of their choice, which can encash them through designated bank accounts.&nbsp;The failure to cash the amount within 15 days resulted in the donation being deposited into the Prime Minister's Relief Fund.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Following directives from the Indian Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has uploaded the electoral bonds data on its website. In adherence to the court's orders dated February 15 and March 11, 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI) provided the data to the ECI on March 12, 2024.

Following directives from the Indian Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has uploaded the electoral bonds data on its website. In adherence to the court's orders dated February 15 and March 11, 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI) provided the data to the ECI on March 12, 2024. The ECI confirmed that the data was uploaded "as is where is basis" on its website. This comes as the Chairman of SBI filed a compliance affidavit on Wednesday (Mar 13), informing the Supreme Court about furnishing the electoral bonds details to the election commission. “In compliance of Hon’ble Supreme Court's directions, contained in its order dated Feb 15 & March 11, 2024 (in the matter of WPC NO.880 of 2017), the State Bank of India (SBI) had provided the data pertaining to the electoral bonds to the Election Commission of India (ECI) on March 12, 2024," the commission said in a statement on Thursday (Mar 14) "The Election Commission of India has today uploaded the data on electoral bonds on its website as received from SBI on “as is where is basis". The data as received from SBI can be accessed at this url: https://www.eci.gov.in/candidate-politicalparty It may be recalled that in the said matter, ECI has consistently and categorically weighed in favour of disclosure and transparency, a position reflected in the proceedings of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and noted in the order also," it added. Also Read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: TMC releases Mamata Banerjee's hospital pictures after major head injury The affidavit submitted by the SBI chairman stated that the bank has provided details of “the date of purchase, denomination and name of buyer were recorded, and [in relation to the political parties] the date of encashment and the denominations of the bonds encashed were recorded”. Also Read | Supreme Court calls out Ajit Pawar faction for using Sharad Pawar's images; 'stick to your identity' The data covers bonds purchased and redeemed between April 12, 2019, and February 15, 2024. The electoral bonds data was transferred to the ECI on a pen drive with two password-protected PDF documents, along with a separate envelope containing the passwords and a letter addressed to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. What are electoral bonds? Electoral bonds were introduced in 2017 by the Indian government as a means for individuals and organisations to donate money to political parties anonymously. These bonds are similar to promissory notes, allowing donors to purchase them from authorised banks. Watch | India Elections 2024: Indian politicians and their superstitions × The donor can then donate these bonds to the political party of their choice, which can encash them through designated bank accounts. The failure to cash the amount within 15 days resulted in the donation being deposited into the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Election Commission publishes electoral bonds data on its website following Supreme Court order

<p>Retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu on Thursday (Mar 14) were named as the new Election Commissioners by a high-level committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two positions in the commission were vacant after the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey on February 14 and the sudden resignation of Arun Goel on March 8. Goel would have become chief election commissioner (CEC) after incumbent Rajiv Kumar retires&nbsp;in February next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an official statement, the Ministry of Law and Justice said: "In exercise of powers conferred by Section 4 of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023 (Act No. 49 of 2023), the President is pleased to appoint Gyanesh Kumar, IAS (Retd.) and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, IAS (Retd.), as Election Commissioners in the Election Commission of India, with effect from the date they assume charge of their office."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-sukhbir-singh-sandhu-indias-new-election-commissioner-700174">Who is Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, India's new election commissioner</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who is Gyanesh Kumar?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Gyanesh Kumar is an IIT-Kanpur graduate and did&nbsp;BTech in Civil Engineering. He also has a postgraduate degree in economics from Harvard University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He retired as secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation on January 31, 2024. He also served as the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and oversaw the abrogation of Article 370 during his tenure in the home ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is a 1988-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre. As the resident commissioner of Kerala in Delhi, he was deputed by the state government to evacuate 46 nurses stuck in Erbil in war-torn Iraq in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-indian-pm-led-panel-selects-two-poll-commissioners-699987">Gyanesh Kumar, Sukhbir Sandhu appointed India's new election commissioners</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;'One Nation, One Election' Explained; What is it and How it will work&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Now he has been appointed as the Election Commissioner. Rajya Sabha on December 12 passed a bill to regulate the appointment and service terms of Chief Election Commissioners and election commissioners. The bill replaces the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first task before the new election commissioner will be to ensure the successful conduct of the Lok Sabha polls which are slated to be held in April-May this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu on Thursday (Mar 14) were named as the new Election Commissioners by a high-level committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu on Thursday (Mar 14) were named as the new Election Commissioners by a high-level committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two positions in the commission were vacant after the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey on February 14 and the sudden resignation of Arun Goel on March 8. Goel would have become chief election commissioner (CEC) after incumbent Rajiv Kumar retires in February next year. In an official statement, the Ministry of Law and Justice said: "In exercise of powers conferred by Section 4 of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023 (Act No. 49 of 2023), the President is pleased to appoint Gyanesh Kumar, IAS (Retd.) and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, IAS (Retd.), as Election Commissioners in the Election Commission of India, with effect from the date they assume charge of their office." Also read: Who is Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, India's new election commissioner Who is Gyanesh Kumar? Gyanesh Kumar is an IIT-Kanpur graduate and did BTech in Civil Engineering. He also has a postgraduate degree in economics from Harvard University. He retired as secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation on January 31, 2024. He also served as the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and oversaw the abrogation of Article 370 during his tenure in the home ministry. He is a 1988-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre. As the resident commissioner of Kerala in Delhi, he was deputed by the state government to evacuate 46 nurses stuck in Erbil in war-torn Iraq in 2014. Also read: Gyanesh Kumar, Sukhbir Sandhu appointed India's new election commissioners Watch: 'One Nation, One Election' Explained; What is it and How it will work × Now he has been appointed as the Election Commissioner. Rajya Sabha on December 12 passed a bill to regulate the appointment and service terms of Chief Election Commissioners and election commissioners. The bill replaces the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991. The first task before the new election commissioner will be to ensure the successful conduct of the Lok Sabha polls which are slated to be held in April-May this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Gyanesh Kumar, the new Election Commissioner of India. He oversaw abrogation of Article 370

India's Election Commission has made public the data of electoral bonds which reveals purchases made by companies as well as individuals to political parties. The data includes purchases of bonds of three denominations - ₹ 1 lakh, ₹ 10 lakh and ₹ 1 crore, dating back to April 12, 2019. The government-run SBI bank submitted the data on Tuesday and submitted the affidavit to the Supreme Court of India the day after that. The affidavit says that 22,217 electoral bonds were issued between April 2019 and February 15, 2024, before the Supreme Court struck down the scheme after declaring it unconstitutional.

Gravitas: India's Election Commission makes electoral bonds data from SBI public

The Indian Supreme Court dismissed a plea filed by SBI. The SBI sought an extension till June 30 to disclose details of electoral bonds encashed by political parties. Watch this video for all details.

India: Election Commission uploads Election Bonds data

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led selection committee has finalized the names of two new election Commissioners weeks ahead of the general elections in the country. Leader of opposition Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury who was part of the three-member committee containing one more cabinet minister has revealed the names of the selected poll officials after the meeting that ended minutes ago. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said Sukhbir Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar have been elected as the new election Commissioners.

New Election Commissioners selected, Gyanesh Kumar & Sukhbir Sandhu to be new ECs

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led selection committee has finalized the names of two new election Commissioners weeks ahead of the general elections in the country.

India: Meeting over poll commissioner selection ends

Breaking news | Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu to be new Election Commissioners

<p>The State Bank of India (SBI) diligently submitted electoral bond data to the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (March 12), as mandated by a stern directive from the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>The Chairman and Managing Director of the bank also provided an affidavit, affirming their adherence to the court's order.</p>

<p>This crucial information, pertaining to electoral bonds, will be compiled and disclosed by the poll panel before 5 pm on Friday (March 15), in accordance with the court's specific timeline.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sc-rejects-sbis-electoral-bond-disclosure-extension-plea-asks-eci-to-publish-details-by-march-15-698888" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sc-rejects-sbis-electoral-bond-disclosure-extension-plea-asks-eci-to-publish-details-by-march-15-698888&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQn9Og7u6EAxX7wzgGHTe2AnsQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw18jMHiZA_6l1HQFhrzre92&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sc-rejects-sbis-electoral-bond-disclosure-extension-plea-asks-eci-to-publish-details-by-march-15-698888" target="_blank">India: SC rejects&nbsp;<b>SBI's</b>&nbsp;electoral bond disclosure extension plea</a></p>

<p>The SBI has issued Electoral Bonds worth Rs 16,518 crore in 30 tranches since the inception of the scheme in 2018.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court on Monday (March 11), dismissed SBI's plea seeking an extension of the March 6 deadline for releasing the data.</p>

<p>Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading the bench, expressed strong disapproval of the bank's willful disobedience of orders and issued a warning of contempt proceedings if the stipulated deadline was not met.</p>

<p>While refraining from immediate contempt jurisdiction, the court emphasised that the SBI must comply with the specified directions and timelines, cautioning that contempt proceedings might ensue otherwise.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-sbi-urges-supreme-court-for-electoral-bond-data-extension-until-june-30-696669" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-sbi-urges-supreme-court-for-electoral-bond-data-extension-until-june-30-696669&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQn9Og7u6EAxX7wzgGHTe2AnsQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tD5Me0Uj1EkHCHZh2D6KO&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-sbi-urges-supreme-court-for-electoral-bond-data-extension-until-june-30-696669" target="_blank">India's&nbsp;<b>SBI</b>&nbsp;urges Supreme Court for electoral bond data extension</a></p>

<p>The bank had argued that the process of collecting, cross-checking, and releasing the data, stored in two confidential silos, required more time. It pleaded for an extension until June 30, well beyond the general election.</p>

<p>In response, the Supreme Court pointed out that donor details were accessible at the SBI's Mumbai branch and asserted that the bank merely needed to "open covers, collate details, and provide information."</p>

<p>In a landmark verdict last month, the Supreme Court declared the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional, citing a violation of citizens' right to information. The SBI had been specifically directed to disclose the data by March 6, with the Election Commission slated to make this information public by March 13.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Electoral Bonds Case: Indian Supreme Court rejects SBI's plea</strong></p>

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<p>The recent developments underscore the judiciary's commitment to ensuring transparency and compliance with legal directives in the electoral process.</p>

<p>Introduced as an alternative to cash contributions to political parties, electoral bonds were intended to improve transparency in political funding.</p>

<p>These bonds were designed to be exclusively redeemed by eligible political parties through a designated bank account, with the State Bank of India (SBI) being the sole authorised bank for issuing such bonds.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The State Bank of India (SBI) diligently submitted electoral bond data to the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (March 12), as mandated by a stern directive from the Supreme Court.

The State Bank of India (SBI) diligently submitted electoral bond data to the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (March 12), as mandated by a stern directive from the Supreme Court. The Chairman and Managing Director of the bank also provided an affidavit, affirming their adherence to the court's order. This crucial information, pertaining to electoral bonds, will be compiled and disclosed by the poll panel before 5 pm on Friday (March 15), in accordance with the court's specific timeline. Also read: India: SC rejects SBI's electoral bond disclosure extension plea The SBI has issued Electoral Bonds worth Rs 16,518 crore in 30 tranches since the inception of the scheme in 2018. The Supreme Court on Monday (March 11), dismissed SBI's plea seeking an extension of the March 6 deadline for releasing the data. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading the bench, expressed strong disapproval of the bank's willful disobedience of orders and issued a warning of contempt proceedings if the stipulated deadline was not met. While refraining from immediate contempt jurisdiction, the court emphasised that the SBI must comply with the specified directions and timelines, cautioning that contempt proceedings might ensue otherwise. Also read: India's SBI urges Supreme Court for electoral bond data extension The bank had argued that the process of collecting, cross-checking, and releasing the data, stored in two confidential silos, required more time. It pleaded for an extension until June 30, well beyond the general election. In response, the Supreme Court pointed out that donor details were accessible at the SBI's Mumbai branch and asserted that the bank merely needed to "open covers, collate details, and provide information." In a landmark verdict last month, the Supreme Court declared the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional, citing a violation of citizens' right to information. The SBI had been specifically directed to disclose the data by March 6, with the Election Commission slated to make this information public by March 13. Watch: Electoral Bonds Case: Indian Supreme Court rejects SBI's plea × The recent developments underscore the judiciary's commitment to ensuring transparency and compliance with legal directives in the electoral process. Introduced as an alternative to cash contributions to political parties, electoral bonds were intended to improve transparency in political funding. These bonds were designed to be exclusively redeemed by eligible political parties through a designated bank account, with the State Bank of India (SBI) being the sole authorised bank for issuing such bonds. (With inputs from agencies)

SBI submits electoral bonds data to Election Commission following Indian SC's censure

<p>Election Commissioner Arun Goel on Saturday (Mar 9) quit from his position, weeks&nbsp;ahead of India's Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>His resignation was accepted by the President Droupadi Murmu with immediate effect.<br />
<br />
With Goel’s resignation, the three-member Election Commission of India&nbsp;now has only Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar. There was already a vacancy after Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey retired last month.</p>

<p>"In pursuance of clause (1) of Section 11 of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the President is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 09th March 2024,"&nbsp;an official statement from the Ministry of Law and Justice read.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-dmk-allots-10-seats-for-congress-in-tamil-nadu-puducherry-698377">Lok Sabha polls: DMK allots 10 seats for Congress in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President accepts the resignation tendered by Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 9th March 2024: Ministry of Law &amp; Justice <a href="https://t.co/88tuyXm4uP">pic.twitter.com/88tuyXm4uP</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1766488053688770940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development comes&nbsp;days ahead of the vote dates announcement, which is expected to take place next week.Goel assumed charge as Election Commissioner (EC) of India in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An Indian Administrative Service officer of 1985 batch from the Punjab cadre,&nbsp;Goel had superannuated as Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industry, Govt of India after more than 37 years of service before joining the EC.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He previously worked as Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Vice-Chairman, Delhi Development Authority; Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser, Ministry of Labour and Employment; Joint Secretary, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.</p>

<p>The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to take place in April-May 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Election Commissioner Arun Goel on Saturday (Mar 9) quit from his position, weeks ahead of India's Lok Sabha elections. His resignation was accepted by the President Droupadi Murmu with immediate effect.

Election Commissioner Arun Goel on Saturday (Mar 9) quit from his position, weeks ahead of India's Lok Sabha elections. His resignation was accepted by the President Droupadi Murmu with immediate effect. With Goel’s resignation, the three-member Election Commission of India now has only Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar. There was already a vacancy after Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey retired last month. "In pursuance of clause (1) of Section 11 of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the President is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 09th March 2024," an official statement from the Ministry of Law and Justice read. Also read: Lok Sabha polls: DMK allots 10 seats for Congress in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry President accepts the resignation tendered by Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 9th March 2024: Ministry of Law & Justice pic.twitter.com/88tuyXm4uP — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2024 × The development comes days ahead of the vote dates announcement, which is expected to take place next week.Goel assumed charge as Election Commissioner (EC) of India in 2022. An Indian Administrative Service officer of 1985 batch from the Punjab cadre, Goel had superannuated as Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industry, Govt of India after more than 37 years of service before joining the EC. He previously worked as Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Vice-Chairman, Delhi Development Authority; Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser, Ministry of Labour and Employment; Joint Secretary, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to take place in April-May 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigns ahead of Lok Sabha polls, president accepts resignation

Arun Goel's resignation as election commissioner has left the three-member Election Commission of India down to a single office-bearer in CEC Rajiv Kumar after Anup Chandra Pandey retired as a commissioner last month. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: Arun Goel's resignation leaves Election Commission with only one member

Just weeks before India's general elections ar kickstarting, India's Election Commissioner Arun Goel has stepped down from his position.

India: Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigns weeks before General Elections

<p>The Election Commission approved a new name for Sharad Pawar's NCP faction —&nbsp;Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar. Earlier, the senior Pawar faction had submitted three options for a new name to the Election Commission of India.</p>

<p>The group also expressed its preference for the banyan tree as its new symbol. The three names suggested by the Sharad Pawar group were Nationalist Congress Party Sharad Pawar, Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar and Nationalist Congress Party Sharadrao Pawar.</p>

<p>The organisation desired to keep the initials of its founder and seasoned leader, Sharad Pawar, together with the words "Nationalist" and "Congress" in its new moniker. Additionally, the faction intends to adopt the banyan tree as its new emblem, signifying harmony, sturdiness, and longevity.</p>

<p>The Election Commission had asked the Sharad Pawar group to claim a new name and provide three preferences by Wednesday 4 pm, as the notification for the Rajya Sabha elections from Maharashtra is to be issued on February 8. Meanwhile, the Sharad Pawar group has challenged the Election Commission’s decision to recognise the Ajit Pawar faction as the real NCP and allot it the clock symbol in the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>The Election Commission is prejudiced and swayed by the ruling BJP at the Centre, alleged leaders of the Sharad Pawar faction.&nbsp;They claim&nbsp;that the Ajit Pawar faction has falsified documents and signatures in order to claim ownership of the NCP name and symbol.</p>

<p>The NCP split into two factions after Ajit Pawar, the nephew of Sharad Pawar, rebelled against him and joined hands with the government in Maharashtra in November 2023.</p>

<p>Earlier also Ajit Pawar had rebelled but eventually rejoined the NCP and backed the Congress and Shiv Sena in forming the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission approved a new name for Sharad Pawar's NCP faction — Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar. Earlier, the senior Pawar faction had submitted three options for a new name to the Election Commission of India.

The Election Commission approved a new name for Sharad Pawar's NCP faction — Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar. Earlier, the senior Pawar faction had submitted three options for a new name to the Election Commission of India. The group also expressed its preference for the banyan tree as its new symbol. The three names suggested by the Sharad Pawar group were Nationalist Congress Party Sharad Pawar, Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar and Nationalist Congress Party Sharadrao Pawar. The organisation desired to keep the initials of its founder and seasoned leader, Sharad Pawar, together with the words "Nationalist" and "Congress" in its new moniker. Additionally, the faction intends to adopt the banyan tree as its new emblem, signifying harmony, sturdiness, and longevity. The Election Commission had asked the Sharad Pawar group to claim a new name and provide three preferences by Wednesday 4 pm, as the notification for the Rajya Sabha elections from Maharashtra is to be issued on February 8. Meanwhile, the Sharad Pawar group has challenged the Election Commission’s decision to recognise the Ajit Pawar faction as the real NCP and allot it the clock symbol in the Supreme Court. The Election Commission is prejudiced and swayed by the ruling BJP at the Centre, alleged leaders of the Sharad Pawar faction. They claim that the Ajit Pawar faction has falsified documents and signatures in order to claim ownership of the NCP name and symbol. The NCP split into two factions after Ajit Pawar, the nephew of Sharad Pawar, rebelled against him and joined hands with the government in Maharashtra in November 2023. Earlier also Ajit Pawar had rebelled but eventually rejoined the NCP and backed the Congress and Shiv Sena in forming the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Sharad Pawar’s faction gets a new name after losing ‘real NCP’ identity

<p>On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public.</p>

<p>In the video message released on X, previously known as Twitter, the PTI Chairman urged Pakistanis to "leave their homes and vote tomorrow".</p>

<h2><strong>'For your future'</strong></h2>

<p>Posting the video from Khan's Twitter handle, his team wrote, "Founding Chairman Imran Khan's pre-recorded message for General Elections."</p>

<p>"Make sure you come out and vote in huge numbers tomorrow," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-election-commission-cautions-influencers-media-from-doing-anything-to-influence-elections-687625">Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections</a></strong></p>

<p>In the video, Imran Khan, who is currently behind bars, reminded people that "tomorrow is election day" and said that he wants them to "leave their homes," to go and vote. Asking them to take along the people they know, he says that only through elections they (people) can change their and their children's "mustaqbil"&nbsp;(future).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch the video message here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Founding Chairman Imran Khan's prerecorded message for General Elections.<br />
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Make sure you come out and Vote in huge numbers tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/vRbo51ZhG2">pic.twitter.com/vRbo51ZhG2</a></p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1755175040528871460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Delay in election results possible</strong></h2>

<p>Imran Khan's message comes as the Pakistan Election Commission on Wednesday (Feb 7th) noted that polling results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons.</p>

<p>Geo News quotes ECP project management unit's Director Col (retd.) Saad as saying that "the results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan releases pre-recorded message</strong></p>

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<p>"We are in contact with all telecom companies and Nepra has assured us that there will be no load shedding tomorrow," he added.</p>

<p>Ahead of the February 8 elections, on Wednesday, two back-to-back blasts in Balochistan claimed the lives of 26 people, while several others were injured. The first attack, as per Dawn newspaper, took place outside the election office of independent candidate Asfandyar Kakar in Pishin. Shortly after the first attack, the second blast was reported in Qila Saifullah.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-balochistan-govt-bans-public-meetings-electoral-gatherings-after-suicide-bomb-threat-686922">Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat</a></strong></p>

<p>Following the blasts, as per a Geo News report quoting the provincial health secretary, an emergency has been imposed across hospitals in Quetta for which additional staff has also been called.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public.

On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public. In the video message released on X, previously known as Twitter, the PTI Chairman urged Pakistanis to "leave their homes and vote tomorrow". 'For your future' Posting the video from Khan's Twitter handle, his team wrote, "Founding Chairman Imran Khan's pre-recorded message for General Elections." "Make sure you come out and vote in huge numbers tomorrow," it added. Also read | Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections In the video, Imran Khan, who is currently behind bars, reminded people that "tomorrow is election day" and said that he wants them to "leave their homes," to go and vote. Asking them to take along the people they know, he says that only through elections they (people) can change their and their children's "mustaqbil" (future). Watch the video message here: Founding Chairman Imran Khan's prerecorded message for General Elections. Make sure you come out and Vote in huge numbers tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/vRbo51ZhG2 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) February 7, 2024 × Delay in election results possible Imran Khan's message comes as the Pakistan Election Commission on Wednesday (Feb 7th) noted that polling results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons. Geo News quotes ECP project management unit's Director Col (retd.) Saad as saying that "the results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons." Watch | Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan releases pre-recorded message × "We are in contact with all telecom companies and Nepra has assured us that there will be no load shedding tomorrow," he added. Ahead of the February 8 elections, on Wednesday, two back-to-back blasts in Balochistan claimed the lives of 26 people, while several others were injured. The first attack, as per Dawn newspaper, took place outside the election office of independent candidate Asfandyar Kakar in Pishin. Shortly after the first attack, the second blast was reported in Qila Saifullah. Also read | Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat Following the blasts, as per a Geo News report quoting the provincial health secretary, an emergency has been imposed across hospitals in Quetta for which additional staff has also been called. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to ‘leave homes and vote’ via pre-recorded message

<p>Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct.</p>

<p>In its notice on Tuesday (Feb 6th), the Election Commission of Pakistan advised the national media to strictly adhere to "ECP's Code of Conduct to ensure ethical journalism and responsible and balanced reporting for a smooth and peaceful conduct of the General Elections."</p>

<h2><strong>No prejudices allowed</strong></h2>

<p>The notice states that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) as the regulator must ensure that the national media under its regulatory framework adheres to the code of conduct.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/message-of-preace-to-india-former-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-releases-party-manifesto-684253">Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply</a></strong></p>

<p>It informed the media that the Election Commission's Code of Conduct "forbids the media from reflecting any opinion prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty, dignity, or security of Pakistan, public order or the integrity and independence of the judiciary of Pakistan and other national institutions."</p>

<p>Furthermore, it forbade the media from "airing or displaying on electronic, digital and social media, any allegations and statements which may harm national solidarity or may create law and order situation during the entire election process, including poll day and after poll."</p>

<h2><strong>Social media influencers cautioned</strong></h2>

<p>The notice also cautioned social media influencers to refrain from actions that may "influence the voters' free choice of casting vote".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-balochistan-govt-bans-public-meetings-electoral-gatherings-after-suicide-bomb-threat-686922">Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat</a></strong></p>

<p>"Print &amp; electronic media and any journalist, newspaper, and channel on their official accounts on digital media, and other social media influencers shall refrain from entrance and exit polls or conducting any kind of surveys at any polling station or constituency which may influence the voters' free choice of casting vote or hinder the process&nbsp;in&nbsp;any&nbsp;way," it said.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the notice instructs media to not air any unofficial results at least until "one hour has passed after the close of poll".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct.

Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct. In its notice on Tuesday (Feb 6th), the Election Commission of Pakistan advised the national media to strictly adhere to "ECP's Code of Conduct to ensure ethical journalism and responsible and balanced reporting for a smooth and peaceful conduct of the General Elections." No prejudices allowed The notice states that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) as the regulator must ensure that the national media under its regulatory framework adheres to the code of conduct. Also read | Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply It informed the media that the Election Commission's Code of Conduct "forbids the media from reflecting any opinion prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty, dignity, or security of Pakistan, public order or the integrity and independence of the judiciary of Pakistan and other national institutions." Furthermore, it forbade the media from "airing or displaying on electronic, digital and social media, any allegations and statements which may harm national solidarity or may create law and order situation during the entire election process, including poll day and after poll." Social media influencers cautioned The notice also cautioned social media influencers to refrain from actions that may "influence the voters' free choice of casting vote". Also read | Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat "Print & electronic media and any journalist, newspaper, and channel on their official accounts on digital media, and other social media influencers shall refrain from entrance and exit polls or conducting any kind of surveys at any polling station or constituency which may influence the voters' free choice of casting vote or hinder the process in any way," it said. Furthermore, the notice instructs media to not air any unofficial results at least until "one hour has passed after the close of poll". (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (February 6) ruled that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is the real party. The decision is a setback to the party's founder&nbsp;and veteran politician Sharad Pawar who is the uncle of Ajit Pawar.</p>

<p>The name 'Nationalist Congress Party' and the electoral symbol has been given to Ajit Pawar faction.</p>

<p>The ECI however, has given Sharad Pawar faction a one-time option to claim name for a new political formation the veteran politician may want to form. But if he wants to do that, it will have to be done by 3 pm on February 7.</p>

<p>The latest decision from the ECI came after more than 10 hearings spread over more than six months.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What has ECI said?</strong></h2>

<p>Explaining its decision, the poll panel said the verdict was given after laid-out tests of the maintainability of the petition. These included tests of aims and objectives of the party constitution, tests of a majority both organisational and legislative and test of party constitution.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Uttarakhand government tables UCC bill</strong></p>

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<p>The hearings began on July 1, 2023. Both, the Ajit Pawar faction (petitioner) and Sharad Pawar faction (respondent), had fielded strong legal teams. Mukul Rohatgi, Neeraj Kishan Kaul and Maninder Singh represented Ajit Pawar side while Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Devdatt Kamat were in the senior Pawar's corner.</p>

<p>The poll panel said that serious inconsistencies were found in terms of timeline in claims made by Sharad Pawar group when is sought to assert that it had the organisational majority. This, said ECI, made the claim untenable.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-presents-proof-of-ballot-paper-tampering-by-bjp-in-chandigarh-mayor-elections-687539">AAP presents 'proof' of ballot paper tampering by BJP in Chandigarh mayor elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The election commission said in its order that perhaps time has come for political parties to consider "voluntary wider public disclosures of party constitution, amendments thereof, if any internal electoral steps such as publication of electoral college, dates of elections, time and venue of elections of different tiers, candidates, compliant redressal mechanisms within their organizations, and list of elected office bearers, etc."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lok-sabha-report-urges-diplomatic-action-against-pakistans-terrorism-support-687407">Lok Sabha report urges diplomatic action against Pakistan for supporting terrorism</a></strong></p>

<p>"Such disclosures on their websites shall keep the most valuable stakeholder of electoral democracy, that is the electorate at large duly informed," the poll panel said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (February 6) ruled that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is the real party.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (February 6) ruled that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is the real party. The decision is a setback to the party's founder and veteran politician Sharad Pawar who is the uncle of Ajit Pawar. The name 'Nationalist Congress Party' and the electoral symbol has been given to Ajit Pawar faction. The ECI however, has given Sharad Pawar faction a one-time option to claim name for a new political formation the veteran politician may want to form. But if he wants to do that, it will have to be done by 3 pm on February 7. The latest decision from the ECI came after more than 10 hearings spread over more than six months. What has ECI said? Explaining its decision, the poll panel said the verdict was given after laid-out tests of the maintainability of the petition. These included tests of aims and objectives of the party constitution, tests of a majority both organisational and legislative and test of party constitution. Watch | Uttarakhand government tables UCC bill × The hearings began on July 1, 2023. Both, the Ajit Pawar faction (petitioner) and Sharad Pawar faction (respondent), had fielded strong legal teams. Mukul Rohatgi, Neeraj Kishan Kaul and Maninder Singh represented Ajit Pawar side while Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Devdatt Kamat were in the senior Pawar's corner. The poll panel said that serious inconsistencies were found in terms of timeline in claims made by Sharad Pawar group when is sought to assert that it had the organisational majority. This, said ECI, made the claim untenable. Also Read | AAP presents 'proof' of ballot paper tampering by BJP in Chandigarh mayor elections The election commission said in its order that perhaps time has come for political parties to consider "voluntary wider public disclosures of party constitution, amendments thereof, if any internal electoral steps such as publication of electoral college, dates of elections, time and venue of elections of different tiers, candidates, compliant redressal mechanisms within their organizations, and list of elected office bearers, etc." Also Read | Lok Sabha report urges diplomatic action against Pakistan for supporting terrorism "Such disclosures on their websites shall keep the most valuable stakeholder of electoral democracy, that is the electorate at large duly informed," the poll panel said. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar faction is the real NCP, rules ECI

The raging family fued between Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar has resulted in a major victory for the latter. The Election Commission has declared Ajit's faction as the real NCP after he led a rebellion in July 2023.

Ajit Pawar is the real NCP, says Election Commission

India's poll body has issued a fresh directive ahead of general elections in India. What has the panel listed out as the do's and dont's for political parties?

India's Election Commission says keep children out of polls

<p>Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering. The election commission said in the advisory that it will resort to a "zero tolerance" policy when it comes to the use of children during the electoral process by parties and candidates in any manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the statement, the poll panel noted that the political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner, including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or at rallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-public-examinations-prevention-of-unfair-means-bill-2024-introduced-in-lower-house-of-parliament-687088">India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The statement read, "Political Parties have been advised not to use children in election campaigns in any form whatsoever including distribution of posters/pamphlets or to participate in slogan shouting, campaign rallies, election meetings, etc. The Commission has conveyed ‘Zero Tolerance’ towards the use of children in any manner during the electoral process by parties and candidates."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poll panel added that this prohibition extends to the use of children to create the semblance of a political campaign in any manner including use through poems, songs, spoken words, display of insignia of a political party or candidate, exhibiting ideology of a political party, promoting achievements of a political party or criticising the opponent political parties or candidates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">India: Jharkhand CM Champai Soren wins crucial floor test with 47 MLAs</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;WION's exclusive interview with Dr&nbsp;V Anantha Nageswaran&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The election commission, however, further mentioned that just the presence of a "child accompanied by their parent or guardian in the proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity by the political party, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The panel said that all political parties and candidates are required to ensure strict compliance with India's Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended by the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Commission has unequivocally directed all election officials and machinery to refrain from involving children in any capacity during election-related work or activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Feb 5) issued an advisory ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, asking the political parties not to use children in campaigning "in any form whatsoever", including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering. The election commission said in the advisory that it will resort to a "zero tolerance" policy when it comes to the use of children during the electoral process by parties and candidates in any manner. In the statement, the poll panel noted that the political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner, including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or at rallies. Also read: India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament The statement read, "Political Parties have been advised not to use children in election campaigns in any form whatsoever including distribution of posters/pamphlets or to participate in slogan shouting, campaign rallies, election meetings, etc. The Commission has conveyed ‘Zero Tolerance’ towards the use of children in any manner during the electoral process by parties and candidates." The poll panel added that this prohibition extends to the use of children to create the semblance of a political campaign in any manner including use through poems, songs, spoken words, display of insignia of a political party or candidate, exhibiting ideology of a political party, promoting achievements of a political party or criticising the opponent political parties or candidates. Also read: India: Jharkhand CM Champai Soren wins crucial floor test with 47 MLAs Watch: WION's exclusive interview with Dr V Anantha Nageswaran × The election commission, however, further mentioned that just the presence of a "child accompanied by their parent or guardian in the proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity by the political party, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines". The panel said that all political parties and candidates are required to ensure strict compliance with India's Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended by the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016. The Commission has unequivocally directed all election officials and machinery to refrain from involving children in any capacity during election-related work or activities. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s election commission issues strict advisory against use of children in any election-related activities

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April.</p>

<p>The vacancies also include seats held by nine Union ministers, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.</p>

<p>The nomination process will begin on February 8 with the issuance of the notification.<br />
<br />
February 15 will be the last date for filing nominations while February 20 is the last date to withdraw candidature.<br />
<br />
As per the established practice, voting will take place from 9 am to 4 pm, and counting will be held on the same day from 5 pm onwards.</p>

<p>While 50 members retire on April 2, six do so on April 3, the EC said.</p>

<p>Others retiring in April include BJD members Prashanta Nanda and Amar Patnaik (Odisha), BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni (Uttarakhand) and Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala, and Congress members Naranbhai Rathwa and Amee Yagnik from Gujarat.</p>

<p>Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, MSME Minister Narayan Rane, former Union minister Prakash Javadekar, Congress member Kumar Ketkar, NCP member Vandana Chavan and Shiv Sena (UBT) member Anil Desai are retiring from Maharashtra.</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh will have the highest number of vacancies of 10 seats, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar (six each), Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal (five each), Karnataka and Gujarat (four each), Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan (three each), and Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Chhattisgarh (one each).</p>

<p>For renomination to Rajya Sabha, BJP president J P Nadda will have to look for a seat outside his home state of Himachal Pradesh as the Congress is in power there.</p>

<p>The Congress can also look forward to sending its nominees to the Upper House of Parliament from Karnataka and Telangana -- the states where it came to power last year. In Karnataka, four Rajya Sabha members are retiring, and in Telangana three.</p>

<p>The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to gain around six seats -- two each in Maharashtra, Bihar and Gujarat -- in the Rajya Sabha after the February 27 elections, with the JD(U) and the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar having joined the ruling coalition.</p>

<p>The NDA's current strength in the Upper House of Parliament stands at 114, including 93 of the BJP. The Congress has 30 seats, the second highest.</p>

<p>In Maharashtra, the Rajya Sabha elections will be keenly watched after the political realignment in the state due to splits in the NCP and the Shiv Sena.</p>

<p>In Karnataka, the retiring members are Rajeev Chandrasekhar of the BJP and L Hanumanthaiah, G C Chandrashekhar and Syed Nasir Hussain of the Congress.</p>

<p>BRS' Joginipally Santosh Kumar Ravichandra Vaddiraju and B Lingaiah Yadav are the retiring members from Telangana. The Congress, which is ruling in Telangana, can hope to send at least two of its nominees to Rajya Sabha from the state.</p>

<p>From West Bengal, Trinamool Congress members Abir Ranjan Biswas, Subhasish Chakraborty, Mohammed Nadimul Haque and Santanu Sen, and Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi are retiring from the Upper House of Parliament.</p>

<p>In Bihar, RJD members Manoj Kumar Jha and Ahmad Ashfaque Karim, JD(U) members Aneel Prasad Hegde and Bashistha Narain Singh, BJP member Sushil Kumar Modi and Congress member Akhilesh Prasad Singh are completing their tenures in the Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>BJP members Anil Agrawal, Ashok Bajpai, Anil Jain, Kanta Kardam, Sakaldeep Rajbhar, GVL Narasimha Rao, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Sudhanshu Trivedi and Harnath Singh Yadav, and Samajwadi Party member Jaya Bachchan from Uttar Pradesh are retiring.</p>

<p>TDP member Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, BJP member C M Ramesh and YSRCP member Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy from Andhra Pradesh are retiring from Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>BJP members Saroj Pandey and D P Vats are retiring from Chhattisgarh and Haryana respectively.<br />
Separately, four nominated members are retiring in July while two nominated seats are vacant.<br />
<br />
Among the nominated members retiring in July are Mahesh Jethmalani, Sonal Mansingh, Ram Shakal and Rakesh Sinha of the BJP.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said that the biennial Rajya Sabha polls will be held on February 27 for 56 seats, as the tenure of incumbents including former prime minister Manmohan Singh and BJP president J P Nadda will end in April. The vacancies also include seats held by nine Union ministers, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The nomination process will begin on February 8 with the issuance of the notification. February 15 will be the last date for filing nominations while February 20 is the last date to withdraw candidature. As per the established practice, voting will take place from 9 am to 4 pm, and counting will be held on the same day from 5 pm onwards. While 50 members retire on April 2, six do so on April 3, the EC said. Others retiring in April include BJD members Prashanta Nanda and Amar Patnaik (Odisha), BJP chief spokesperson Anil Baluni (Uttarakhand) and Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala, and Congress members Naranbhai Rathwa and Amee Yagnik from Gujarat. Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, MSME Minister Narayan Rane, former Union minister Prakash Javadekar, Congress member Kumar Ketkar, NCP member Vandana Chavan and Shiv Sena (UBT) member Anil Desai are retiring from Maharashtra. Uttar Pradesh will have the highest number of vacancies of 10 seats, followed by Maharashtra and Bihar (six each), Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal (five each), Karnataka and Gujarat (four each), Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan (three each), and Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Chhattisgarh (one each). For renomination to Rajya Sabha, BJP president J P Nadda will have to look for a seat outside his home state of Himachal Pradesh as the Congress is in power there. The Congress can also look forward to sending its nominees to the Upper House of Parliament from Karnataka and Telangana -- the states where it came to power last year. In Karnataka, four Rajya Sabha members are retiring, and in Telangana three. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to gain around six seats -- two each in Maharashtra, Bihar and Gujarat -- in the Rajya Sabha after the February 27 elections, with the JD(U) and the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar having joined the ruling coalition. The NDA's current strength in the Upper House of Parliament stands at 114, including 93 of the BJP. The Congress has 30 seats, the second highest. In Maharashtra, the Rajya Sabha elections will be keenly watched after the political realignment in the state due to splits in the NCP and the Shiv Sena. In Karnataka, the retiring members are Rajeev Chandrasekhar of the BJP and L Hanumanthaiah, G C Chandrashekhar and Syed Nasir Hussain of the Congress. BRS' Joginipally Santosh Kumar Ravichandra Vaddiraju and B Lingaiah Yadav are the retiring members from Telangana. The Congress, which is ruling in Telangana, can hope to send at least two of its nominees to Rajya Sabha from the state. From West Bengal, Trinamool Congress members Abir Ranjan Biswas, Subhasish Chakraborty, Mohammed Nadimul Haque and Santanu Sen, and Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi are retiring from the Upper House of Parliament. In Bihar, RJD members Manoj Kumar Jha and Ahmad Ashfaque Karim, JD(U) members Aneel Prasad Hegde and Bashistha Narain Singh, BJP member Sushil Kumar Modi and Congress member Akhilesh Prasad Singh are completing their tenures in the Rajya Sabha. BJP members Anil Agrawal, Ashok Bajpai, Anil Jain, Kanta Kardam, Sakaldeep Rajbhar, GVL Narasimha Rao, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Sudhanshu Trivedi and Harnath Singh Yadav, and Samajwadi Party member Jaya Bachchan from Uttar Pradesh are retiring. TDP member Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, BJP member C M Ramesh and YSRCP member Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy from Andhra Pradesh are retiring from Rajya Sabha. BJP members Saroj Pandey and D P Vats are retiring from Chhattisgarh and Haryana respectively. Separately, four nominated members are retiring in July while two nominated seats are vacant. Among the nominated members retiring in July are Mahesh Jethmalani, Sonal Mansingh, Ram Shakal and Rakesh Sinha of the BJP.

India: EC announces biennial elections for 56 Rajya Sabha seats on Feb 27

<p>The Election Commission of India on Friday (Dec 1) said that the counting of votes will take place on December 4 in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram, a day after its original schedule.<br />
<br />
The decision was taken by the Election Commission after representatives from different quarters requested for the change from initial counting day of December 3, a Sunday, which has special significance among the people in the Christian-majority state.<br />
<br />
In a statement, the Election Commission said: "The Commission has received several representations from various quarters requesting for change in date of counting from December 3 (Sunday) to some other week day, on the ground that December 3, being Sunday a special significance for the people of Mizoram."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-five-state-elections-after-hindi-heartland-bjp-banks-on-pm-modis-popularity-in-telangana-663146">India five-state elections: After Hindi heartland, BJP banks on PM Modi's popularity in Telangana</a></p>

<p>“The Commission, having considered these representations, has decided to revise the date of counting for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of Mizoram from 3rd December, 2023 (Sunday) to 4th December, 2023 (Monday),” the commission stated.<br />
<br />
Earlier, the counting of votes was scheduled for December 3, along four other Indian states - Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana – where assembly elections were conducted last month.<br />
<br />
The counting of votes is now likely to start from 8 am on Monday (Dec 4) in all 13 counting centres as well as 40 counting halls across that state.</p>

<p>The postal ballots will be counted first, followed by votes submitted in EVMs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India state elections exit polls: Decoding the mood and the mandate</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-state-elections-exit-polls-decoding-the-mood-and-the-mandate-664918/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The officials said that more than 4,000 counting personnel will be participating in the counting and the commission will set up 399 EVM tables and 56 postal ballot tables.</p>

<h2><strong>Protests across Mizoram</strong></h2>

<p>The decision to postpone the date of counting also came amid protests being staged by the members of the Mizoram NGO Co-ordination Committee (NGOCC) across the state over the demand to change the date of counting of votes.<br />
<br />
The protests were staged in the state capital Aizawl along with other district headquarters.</p>

<p>NGOCC is an umbrella organisation of the state's civil society organisations and student bodies, which include the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) and Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP).<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission of India on Friday (Dec 1) said that the counting of votes will take place on December 4 in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram, a day after its original schedule.

The Election Commission of India on Friday (Dec 1) said that the counting of votes will take place on December 4 in the northeast Indian state of Mizoram, a day after its original schedule. The decision was taken by the Election Commission after representatives from different quarters requested for the change from initial counting day of December 3, a Sunday, which has special significance among the people in the Christian-majority state. In a statement, the Election Commission said: "The Commission has received several representations from various quarters requesting for change in date of counting from December 3 (Sunday) to some other week day, on the ground that December 3, being Sunday a special significance for the people of Mizoram." Also read: India five-state elections: After Hindi heartland, BJP banks on PM Modi's popularity in Telangana “The Commission, having considered these representations, has decided to revise the date of counting for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of Mizoram from 3rd December, 2023 (Sunday) to 4th December, 2023 (Monday),” the commission stated. Earlier, the counting of votes was scheduled for December 3, along four other Indian states - Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana – where assembly elections were conducted last month. The counting of votes is now likely to start from 8 am on Monday (Dec 4) in all 13 counting centres as well as 40 counting halls across that state. The postal ballots will be counted first, followed by votes submitted in EVMs. Watch: India state elections exit polls: Decoding the mood and the mandate The officials said that more than 4,000 counting personnel will be participating in the counting and the commission will set up 399 EVM tables and 56 postal ballot tables. Protests across Mizoram The decision to postpone the date of counting also came amid protests being staged by the members of the Mizoram NGO Co-ordination Committee (NGOCC) across the state over the demand to change the date of counting of votes. The protests were staged in the state capital Aizawl along with other district headquarters. NGOCC is an umbrella organisation of the state's civil society organisations and student bodies, which include the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) and Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP). (With inputs from agencies)

Mizoram assembly elections: Counting of votes pushed by a day to December 4

<p>Pakistan's election commission is facing accusations of going through a controversial exercise for redrawing a voting map which favours the comeback of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to power. The commission faced accusations amid allegations of pre-polling rigging and growing doubt over the fairness in the general elections ahead.</p>

<p>The procedure to amend constituency borders, which is known as delimitation, follows on from a recently held census, which was marred by many controversies.</p>

<p>Across the country, nearly 1,300 objections have been raised over the changes proposed by the election commission regarding the constituencies, which includes the merging of the Balochistan districts of Sibi and Harnai into one constituency, although they are 400 km apart with stark climate, culture and demographic differences and no road connections. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ex-pm-nawaz-sharif-acquitted-in-corruption-cases-ahead-of-general-elections-664316">Pakistan ex-PM Nawaz Sharif acquitted in corruption cases ahead of general elections</a></p>

<p>As per reports, the election date was also delayed from November to February next year on the pretext of awaited census results, although the opposition alleged that the elections were delayed so that three-time former prime minister Sharif would get more time to return from exile in the United Kingdom and make preparations to run again.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistani military favouring Nawaz Sharif?</strong></h2>

<p>It is being said that Sharif is the favoured candidate of Pakistan’s military, which has been the kingmaker in general elections. The allegations of favourable treatment have been denied by Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).</p>

<p>The delimitation committee was accused of favouritism and increasing doubts over free and fair polls in more than 80 per cent of petitions. &nbsp;The committee will announce the final decision on November 30.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan top court to hear Afghan refugee case</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-top-court-to-hear-afghan-refugee-case-663671/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Serious objections have been raised by the monitoring group Free and Fair Election Network over the preliminary delimitations and they stated that the regulations on voter numbers were not confirmed by more than one-fifth of the proposed constituencies&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deenar Domki, who is a politician from Balochistan, objected to the merger of the Harnai and Sibi districts and stated that they are altering the constituency borders to favour former minister Noor Muhammad Dumar, who recently joined Sharif’s PML-N party. He stated Dumar was the “main beneficiary of this unjust demarcation”, adding that some voters will be required to cross five districts so as to vote or take part in local campaigning.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's election commission is facing accusations of going through a controversial exercise for redrawing a voting map which favours the comeback of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to power.

Pakistan's election commission is facing accusations of going through a controversial exercise for redrawing a voting map which favours the comeback of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to power. The commission faced accusations amid allegations of pre-polling rigging and growing doubt over the fairness in the general elections ahead. The procedure to amend constituency borders, which is known as delimitation, follows on from a recently held census, which was marred by many controversies. Across the country, nearly 1,300 objections have been raised over the changes proposed by the election commission regarding the constituencies, which includes the merging of the Balochistan districts of Sibi and Harnai into one constituency, although they are 400 km apart with stark climate, culture and demographic differences and no road connections. Also read: Pakistan ex-PM Nawaz Sharif acquitted in corruption cases ahead of general elections As per reports, the election date was also delayed from November to February next year on the pretext of awaited census results, although the opposition alleged that the elections were delayed so that three-time former prime minister Sharif would get more time to return from exile in the United Kingdom and make preparations to run again. Pakistani military favouring Nawaz Sharif? It is being said that Sharif is the favoured candidate of Pakistan’s military, which has been the kingmaker in general elections. The allegations of favourable treatment have been denied by Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The delimitation committee was accused of favouritism and increasing doubts over free and fair polls in more than 80 per cent of petitions. The committee will announce the final decision on November 30. Watch: Pakistan top court to hear Afghan refugee case Serious objections have been raised by the monitoring group Free and Fair Election Network over the preliminary delimitations and they stated that the regulations on voter numbers were not confirmed by more than one-fifth of the proposed constituencies Deenar Domki, who is a politician from Balochistan, objected to the merger of the Harnai and Sibi districts and stated that they are altering the constituency borders to favour former minister Noor Muhammad Dumar, who recently joined Sharif’s PML-N party. He stated Dumar was the “main beneficiary of this unjust demarcation”, adding that some voters will be required to cross five districts so as to vote or take part in local campaigning. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's election commission faces accusation of changing voting map in ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's favour

<p>The Indian poll body on Thursday (Nov 23) issued a notice to Congress parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi over his 'panauti' (bad omen) and 'pickpocket' jibes at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in poll-bound western Rajasthan state.</p>

<p>The Election Commission (EC) acted on a complaint filed by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) that wanted the Gandhi scion to be penalised.</p>

<h2><strong>EC wants Rahu's reply by Nov 25</strong></h2>

<p>In its notice, the poll body sought Gandhi’s response by Saturday (Nov 25) evening, pointing out that the violated the Model Code of Conduct that prohibits leaders from making unverified allegations against political rivals.</p>

<p>“It is alleged that comparing a prime minister to a ‘jaibkatra’ (pickpocket) and using the word ‘panauti’ is unbecoming of a very senior leader of national political party. Further, the allegation of grant of waivers of Rs 14,00,000 crore for the past nine years, is asserted by the BJP, as not borne out on facts," the poll panel said.</p>

<p>During a rally&nbsp;in Rajasthan’s Jalore on Tuesday, Rahul indirectly referred to Modi as 'panauti', saying his presence in the Ahmedabad cricket stadium caused Indian team lose the 2023 World Cup cricket final match against Australia last Sunday.</p>

<p>When someone from the crowd shouted ‘panauti’ (a Hindi word for a person who brings bad luck or omen), Gandhi responded, “Yeah…panauti, panauti... Our boys were easily going to win the World Cup but the 'bad omen' made us lose. The media won't point this out but people know.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-moves-ec-against-rahul-gandhi-modi-makes-bold-prediction-top-developments-amidst-rajasthan-polls-661642">BJP moves EC against Rahul Gandhi, Modi makes bold prediction: Top developments amidst Rajasthan polls</a></p>

<p>In another rally, Gandhi attacked Modi saying, “The pickpocket never comes alone, there are three people. One comes from the front, one from the back and one from the distance... Prime Minister Narendra Modi's job is to divert your attention. He comes on TV from the front and distracts the public by raising topics of Hindu-Muslim, demonetisation, and GST. Meanwhile, Adani comes from behind and takes the money."</p>

<h2><strong>EC takes action after BJP's complaint&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The BJP, taking exception to his remarks, wrote a complaint to the EC saying, "Comparing a prime minister to a ‘Jebkatra’ (pickpocket) and 'panauti' is most unbecoming of a senior leader and is a symptom of plummeting levels of political discourse."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-rahul-gandhi-calls-pm-modi-unlucky-after-indian-cricket-teams-loss-in-world-cup-final-661155">Congress leader Rahul Gandhi blames PM Modi for World Cup loss, says his presence in stadium ‘unlucky’</a></p>

<p>“Calling any person for that instance a 'jebkatra' not only amounts to vicious abuse and personal attack but also a character assassination of that person against whom such remark has been made with a clear intent to harm his reputation and mislead the public,” the BJP letter added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian poll body on Thursday (Nov 23) issued a notice to Congress parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi over his 'panauti' (bad omen) and 'pickpocket' jibes at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in poll-bound western Rajasthan state.

The Indian poll body on Thursday (Nov 23) issued a notice to Congress parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi over his 'panauti' (bad omen) and 'pickpocket' jibes at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in poll-bound western Rajasthan state. The Election Commission (EC) acted on a complaint filed by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) that wanted the Gandhi scion to be penalised. EC wants Rahu's reply by Nov 25 In its notice, the poll body sought Gandhi’s response by Saturday (Nov 25) evening, pointing out that the violated the Model Code of Conduct that prohibits leaders from making unverified allegations against political rivals. “It is alleged that comparing a prime minister to a ‘jaibkatra’ (pickpocket) and using the word ‘panauti’ is unbecoming of a very senior leader of national political party. Further, the allegation of grant of waivers of Rs 14,00,000 crore for the past nine years, is asserted by the BJP, as not borne out on facts," the poll panel said. During a rally in Rajasthan’s Jalore on Tuesday, Rahul indirectly referred to Modi as 'panauti', saying his presence in the Ahmedabad cricket stadium caused Indian team lose the 2023 World Cup cricket final match against Australia last Sunday. When someone from the crowd shouted ‘panauti’ (a Hindi word for a person who brings bad luck or omen), Gandhi responded, “Yeah…panauti, panauti... Our boys were easily going to win the World Cup but the 'bad omen' made us lose. The media won't point this out but people know.” Also read | BJP moves EC against Rahul Gandhi, Modi makes bold prediction: Top developments amidst Rajasthan polls In another rally, Gandhi attacked Modi saying, “The pickpocket never comes alone, there are three people. One comes from the front, one from the back and one from the distance... Prime Minister Narendra Modi's job is to divert your attention. He comes on TV from the front and distracts the public by raising topics of Hindu-Muslim, demonetisation, and GST. Meanwhile, Adani comes from behind and takes the money." EC takes action after BJP's complaint The BJP, taking exception to his remarks, wrote a complaint to the EC saying, "Comparing a prime minister to a ‘Jebkatra’ (pickpocket) and 'panauti' is most unbecoming of a senior leader and is a symptom of plummeting levels of political discourse." Also read | Congress leader Rahul Gandhi blames PM Modi for World Cup loss, says his presence in stadium ‘unlucky’ “Calling any person for that instance a 'jebkatra' not only amounts to vicious abuse and personal attack but also a character assassination of that person against whom such remark has been made with a clear intent to harm his reputation and mislead the public,” the BJP letter added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian poll panel pulls up Rahul Gandhi for ‘bad omen’, 'pickpocket' jibes at Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Assembly elections 2023 are the big semi-final clash ahead of the general elections in 2014. Political Analyst, Sanjay Kumar explains the dominant issues influencing voters' choices and offers insights into the expected performances of the BJP, Congress, and regional parties.

Assembly elections: Congress will win in some states: Sanjay Kumar, Political Analyst

Confident of the BJP’s win in crucial states due to its people-centric and development policies, BJP’s Shazia Ilmi tells Vikram Chandra that the Modi factor plays an important role in state elections but she dismisses concerns about a lack of leaders at the state and local levels in the BJP.

Assembly elections: BJP-ruled states in double-engine growth mode: Shazia Ilmi

The Election Commission announced on Monday that voting will take place in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram on various dates from November 7 to 30. Votes for the five states will be tallied on December 3, setting the stage for the 2024 Lok Sabha election semifinals. Voting in these elections would be open to about 16 crore electors.

Assembly Election 2023: EC announces poll schedule for 5 states, voting begins on Nov 7

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Oct 9) announced poll dates for the assembly elections in five states— Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram.</p>

<p>The assembly election in Madhya Pradesh will take place on November 17, followed by Rajasthan on November 23 and Telangana on November 30. The elections will be done under a single phase.</p>

<p>Mizoram will see voting on November 7, which will also be done in a single phase.</p>

<p>In Chhattisgarh, the elections will be done in two phases, with the first one to be held on November 7, and the second phase on November 17.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar noted that these five states hold a unique significance as they serve as the final assembly elections before the grand stage of the General Elections in 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Five states account for one-sixth voters of country</strong></h2>

<p>These combined five states have around 160 million voters, almost one-sixth of the total voters in the country, the official noted.</p>

<p>Of those, 82 million voters are male, and 78 million are female, the CECE said.</p>

<p>Around 6 million first-time voters will be able to participate in elections in five states, with 1.5 million young voters eligible to participate in elections due to amendments on qualifying dates.</p>

<p>The counting of votes in all five states will be held on December 3, Kumar said.</p>

<p>Around 17,70,00 polling stations will be erected across these five states, and of these, 1,01,00 stations will have webcasting facilities. Over 8,000 polling stations will be managed by women.</p>

<h2><strong>Unique elections&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"We have gathered here after a gap of six months. These elections are significant for the country and after this, we will meet for the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections," Kumar said.</p>

<p>"We have met all stakeholders, including political parties and enforcement agencies, while preparing for assembly elections in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, MP and Telangana," he said.</p>

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<p>The poll panel added that it has placed special emphasis on making electoral rolls inclusive and the focus will also be on "roll-to-poll" to ensure that all voters come to vote.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nc-congress-emerge-as-winners-in-ladakh-autonomous-hill-development-council-elections-644251">India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections</a></p>

<p>Madhya Pradesh assembly has 230 seats, Rajasthan has 200, Telangana 119, Chhattisgarh 90 constituencies and Mizoram with 40 assembly seats.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Oct 9) announced poll dates for the assembly elections in five states— Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Oct 9) announced poll dates for the assembly elections in five states— Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram. The assembly election in Madhya Pradesh will take place on November 17, followed by Rajasthan on November 23 and Telangana on November 30. The elections will be done under a single phase. Mizoram will see voting on November 7, which will also be done in a single phase. In Chhattisgarh, the elections will be done in two phases, with the first one to be held on November 7, and the second phase on November 17. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar noted that these five states hold a unique significance as they serve as the final assembly elections before the grand stage of the General Elections in 2024. Five states account for one-sixth voters of country These combined five states have around 160 million voters, almost one-sixth of the total voters in the country, the official noted. Of those, 82 million voters are male, and 78 million are female, the CECE said. Around 6 million first-time voters will be able to participate in elections in five states, with 1.5 million young voters eligible to participate in elections due to amendments on qualifying dates. The counting of votes in all five states will be held on December 3, Kumar said. Around 17,70,00 polling stations will be erected across these five states, and of these, 1,01,00 stations will have webcasting facilities. Over 8,000 polling stations will be managed by women. Unique elections "We have gathered here after a gap of six months. These elections are significant for the country and after this, we will meet for the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections," Kumar said. "We have met all stakeholders, including political parties and enforcement agencies, while preparing for assembly elections in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, MP and Telangana," he said. Also read | Indian students stuck in Israel exercise caution, in touch with officials amid Hamas attack The poll panel added that it has placed special emphasis on making electoral rolls inclusive and the focus will also be on "roll-to-poll" to ensure that all voters come to vote. Also read | India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections Madhya Pradesh assembly has 230 seats, Rajasthan has 200, Telangana 119, Chhattisgarh 90 constituencies and Mizoram with 40 assembly seats. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s assembly elections: Election Commission sounds poll bugle, announces dates for five states

<p>To empower the women of Jammu and Kashmir, the election commission of the Union Territory has reserved 358 wards for women in 77 municipal bodies of J&amp;K for the upcoming municipality and Urban Local Body (ULB) polls. In 1119 wards across 77 municipal bodies of Jammu and Kashmir, a total of 358 seats have been reserved for women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Srinagar district alone, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has recommended reserving 25 out of a total of 74 wards for women in the Srinagar Municipal Corporation. For the Jammu Municipal Corporation, the proposal includes reservations for 25 wards for women, besides 10 for Scheduled Castes, and two for Scheduled Tribes.</p>

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<p>The women across Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the step and said&nbsp;it will help in making things better in the Union Territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''It's not only for women's empowerment but the role women have played in the current politics of Jammu and Kashmir. It was important. Women always think better and with all the faithfulness for the society. The quota was demanded for a long time and it's a very beautiful decision for the females. The women in J&amp;K have strong convictions and are always at the forefront. The women played a major role in the last elections and I see a better future after this quota being given to females,'' said Hina Bhat, Vice Chairperson of J&amp;K Khadi &amp; Village Industries Board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the notification, citizens and stakeholders have been granted a seven-day window to provide their objections and suggestions concerning the proposal. The political parties including from the region welcomed the decision to make a huge number of wards reserved for women.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>''It's a great step that women have been given their quota, in the previous governments women never got their reservations and it's in the BJP rule that reservations for ladies have been provided. There are so many benefits for women because of this. We will get our rights and we can work better for the women and society. Ladies always know it better to get the work done and we will make sure to work better,'' said Rashida, a BJP leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, political parties like PDP have said that nothing new has been done but it's the old ideas being sold in new bottles. The BJP government has withdrawn the laws which were for the security and empowerment of women, it alleged.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | G20's role in shaping the future of global trade</strong></p>

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<p>''When BJP has no issues at hand, they try to put old ideas into new bottles. In 2018 there was reservation for women. It's a good thing, Mehbooba Mufti was the CM who removed the stamp duty for the women buying properties, which was taken away by the BJP and they talk of women empowerment. The laws which were for the security of women were withdrawn by this government, so this is all a sham. Let the elections happen and they would know their place,'' said Mohit Bhan, PDP spokesperson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The municipal polls in Jammu and Kashmir are likely to be held in October-November this year for which the preparations have already started.<br />
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To empower the women of Jammu and Kashmir, the election commission of the Union Territory has reserved 358 wards for women in 77 municipal bodies of J&K for the upcoming municipality and Urban Local Body (ULB) polls.

To empower the women of Jammu and Kashmir, the election commission of the Union Territory has reserved 358 wards for women in 77 municipal bodies of J&K for the upcoming municipality and Urban Local Body (ULB) polls. In 1119 wards across 77 municipal bodies of Jammu and Kashmir, a total of 358 seats have been reserved for women. In the Srinagar district alone, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has recommended reserving 25 out of a total of 74 wards for women in the Srinagar Municipal Corporation. For the Jammu Municipal Corporation, the proposal includes reservations for 25 wards for women, besides 10 for Scheduled Castes, and two for Scheduled Tribes. Also Read | How Chola-era skill was used to sculpt 8-metal,18-ton Nataraja idol, in 7months The women across Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the step and said it will help in making things better in the Union Territory. ''It's not only for women's empowerment but the role women have played in the current politics of Jammu and Kashmir. It was important. Women always think better and with all the faithfulness for the society. The quota was demanded for a long time and it's a very beautiful decision for the females. The women in J&K have strong convictions and are always at the forefront. The women played a major role in the last elections and I see a better future after this quota being given to females,'' said Hina Bhat, Vice Chairperson of J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board. As per the notification, citizens and stakeholders have been granted a seven-day window to provide their objections and suggestions concerning the proposal. The political parties including from the region welcomed the decision to make a huge number of wards reserved for women. Also Read | Indian Supreme Court grants temporarily stays arrest of senior journalists over report on Manipur clashes ''It's a great step that women have been given their quota, in the previous governments women never got their reservations and it's in the BJP rule that reservations for ladies have been provided. There are so many benefits for women because of this. We will get our rights and we can work better for the women and society. Ladies always know it better to get the work done and we will make sure to work better,'' said Rashida, a BJP leader. However, political parties like PDP have said that nothing new has been done but it's the old ideas being sold in new bottles. The BJP government has withdrawn the laws which were for the security and empowerment of women, it alleged. Watch | G20's role in shaping the future of global trade × ''When BJP has no issues at hand, they try to put old ideas into new bottles. In 2018 there was reservation for women. It's a good thing, Mehbooba Mufti was the CM who removed the stamp duty for the women buying properties, which was taken away by the BJP and they talk of women empowerment. The laws which were for the security of women were withdrawn by this government, so this is all a sham. Let the elections happen and they would know their place,'' said Mohit Bhan, PDP spokesperson. The municipal polls in Jammu and Kashmir are likely to be held in October-November this year for which the preparations have already started. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

To empower women, J&K election commission reserves 358 seats for them in municipal, urban local body polls

<p>Pakistan's election commission formally disqualified former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for five years on Tuesday.&nbsp;Khan cannot hold public office for five years since he was convicted and sentenced for selling state gifts when he was prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the evening of August 8, Pakistan's election commission published a notification that cited last week's court order to declare Khan's disqualification under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution read along with&nbsp;Section 232 of the Elections Act, 2017.</p>

<p>An Islamabad trial court on August 5 sentenced the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief to three years in prison and imposed a fine of&nbsp;100,000 Pakistani Rupees. Khan was convicted of concealing the details related to the state gifts submitted to the concerned department, called Toshakhana, during the time he was prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court also found Khan guilty of "corrupt practices" in the Toshakhana case.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief hid the "benefits he accrued from the national exchequer wilfully and intentionally",&nbsp;Dawn reported.</p>

<p>Imran Khan was arrested by Punjab Police at his Zaman Park residence in Lahore city of Pakistan's Punjab province.</p>

<p>"He cheated while providing information of gifts he obtained from Toshakhana which later proved to be false and inaccurate. His dishonesty has been established beyond doubt," the court order read.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan</strong></p>

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<p>According to Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution, "A person shall be disqualified from being elected or chosen as, and from being, a member of the Parliament if he has been, on conviction for any offence involving moral turpitude, sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his release."</p>

<p>The cricketer-turned-politician is currently lodged in Pakistan's Attock Jail.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Imran Khan's second innings in politics in the doldrums</strong></p>

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<p>On August 7, Khan's lawyers&nbsp;moved Supreme Court over his conviction in the Toshakhana case and urged the country's top court to&nbsp;declare the verdict "null and void". Khan's lawyers maintain that their client did not receive a fair trial.</p>

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Pakistan's election commission formally disqualified former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for five years on Tuesday. Khan cannot hold public office for five years since he was convicted and sentenced for selling state gifts when he was prime minister.

Pakistan's election commission formally disqualified former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for five years on Tuesday. Khan cannot hold public office for five years since he was convicted and sentenced for selling state gifts when he was prime minister. On the evening of August 8, Pakistan's election commission published a notification that cited last week's court order to declare Khan's disqualification under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution read along with Section 232 of the Elections Act, 2017. An Islamabad trial court on August 5 sentenced the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief to three years in prison and imposed a fine of 100,000 Pakistani Rupees. Khan was convicted of concealing the details related to the state gifts submitted to the concerned department, called Toshakhana, during the time he was prime minister. The court also found Khan guilty of "corrupt practices" in the Toshakhana case. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief hid the "benefits he accrued from the national exchequer wilfully and intentionally", Dawn reported. Imran Khan was arrested by Punjab Police at his Zaman Park residence in Lahore city of Pakistan's Punjab province. "He cheated while providing information of gifts he obtained from Toshakhana which later proved to be false and inaccurate. His dishonesty has been established beyond doubt," the court order read. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan × According to Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution, "A person shall be disqualified from being elected or chosen as, and from being, a member of the Parliament if he has been, on conviction for any offence involving moral turpitude, sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his release." The cricketer-turned-politician is currently lodged in Pakistan's Attock Jail. Also watch | Imran Khan's second innings in politics in the doldrums × On August 7, Khan's lawyers moved Supreme Court over his conviction in the Toshakhana case and urged the country's top court to declare the verdict "null and void". Khan's lawyers maintain that their client did not receive a fair trial. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Endgame for Imran Khan as Pakistan's election commission bars him from politics till 2028

The country's Election Commission has issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in a contempt case, it has directed Islamabad police to arrest and bring him before the Election Commission on Tuesday at 10 AM.

Pakistan: Imran Khan faces heat from Pakistan Election Commission, gets non-bailable warrant | WION

<p>A bill aimed at empowering the Election Commission of Pakistan to announce election dates without the consent of the President was passed in the Senate on Friday despite opposition from lawmakers from ousted prime minister Imran Khan’s party.</p>

<p>The Elections (Amendment) Bill 2023, which replaced the erstwhile Elections Act 2017, was moved by Pakistan’s State Minister Shahadat Awan in the upper house.</p>

<p>The statement of objects and reasons of the legislation states that the Constitution envisages the duty of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to organise and conduct elections honestly, fairly, and in accordance with the law.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-criticises-pakistans-budget-red-flags-new-tax-policies-604667">IMF criticises Pakistan's budget, red flags new tax policies</a></p>

<p>Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar said the right to choose the date for polls had been given to the ECP in 1973.</p>

<p>“But Ziaul Haq (former military dictator) gave this right to the President through an amendment,” he said.</p>

<p>Opposition senators, particularly those belonging to former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have outrightly rejected the amendments.</p>

<p>“The Constitution is very clear about the date of the elections and it gives both the president and governor the power to announce the date for polls,” Leader of the Opposition Shahzad Waseem said.</p>

<p>The bill was introduced after the ECP shot a letter addressed to both houses of the Parliament, urging them to grant it more powers.</p>

<p>Subsequently, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani set up an eight-member bipartisan parliamentary committee in April to examine the amendments proposed by the ECP.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PAKISTAN Senate approves bill allowing ECP to unilaterally announce election dates</strong></p>

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<p>Khan was ousted from power in April last year after losing a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly.</p>

<p>Since then, the cricketer-turned-politician has been demanding early general elections in Pakistan.</p>

<p>The PML-N-led coalition government has rejected his demand and senior ministers have said that elections will be held according to the provisions of the Constitution.</p>

<p>The current term of the National Assembly will end in August this year and fresh elections are expected to be held in October.</p>

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A bill aimed at empowering the Election Commission of Pakistan to announce election dates without the consent of the President was passed in the Senate on Friday despite opposition from lawmakers from ousted prime minister Imran Khan’s party.

A bill aimed at empowering the Election Commission of Pakistan to announce election dates without the consent of the President was passed in the Senate on Friday despite opposition from lawmakers from ousted prime minister Imran Khan’s party. The Elections (Amendment) Bill 2023, which replaced the erstwhile Elections Act 2017, was moved by Pakistan’s State Minister Shahadat Awan in the upper house. The statement of objects and reasons of the legislation states that the Constitution envisages the duty of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to organise and conduct elections honestly, fairly, and in accordance with the law. ALSO READ | IMF criticises Pakistan's budget, red flags new tax policies Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar said the right to choose the date for polls had been given to the ECP in 1973. “But Ziaul Haq (former military dictator) gave this right to the President through an amendment,” he said. Opposition senators, particularly those belonging to former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have outrightly rejected the amendments. “The Constitution is very clear about the date of the elections and it gives both the president and governor the power to announce the date for polls,” Leader of the Opposition Shahzad Waseem said. The bill was introduced after the ECP shot a letter addressed to both houses of the Parliament, urging them to grant it more powers. Subsequently, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani set up an eight-member bipartisan parliamentary committee in April to examine the amendments proposed by the ECP. WATCH | PAKISTAN Senate approves bill allowing ECP to unilaterally announce election dates Khan was ousted from power in April last year after losing a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. Since then, the cricketer-turned-politician has been demanding early general elections in Pakistan. The PML-N-led coalition government has rejected his demand and senior ministers have said that elections will be held according to the provisions of the Constitution. The current term of the National Assembly will end in August this year and fresh elections are expected to be held in October. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan empowers Election Commission to announce election dates without president's consent