The dates for the Lok Sabha elections are likely to be announced in the first week of March, sources indicated on Friday.

The term of the present Lok Sabha ends on June 3.

The Election Commission is in the process of deciding the number of phases and the months in which polling would be held, they said.

The charting of the phases would also depend on the availability of security forces and other requirements, the sources said, adding the announcement of the mega exercise is likely to be made in first week of March.

There is a possibility that the EC may go by the precedent and hold assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh along with the Lok Sabha polls.

Since the Jammu and Kashmir assembly has been dissolved, the EC is bound to hold fresh polls there within six months.

It was dissolved in November, 2018 and the upper limit ends in May. The poll panel may hold elections in Jammu and Kashmir along with the Lok Sabha polls as well. But it can be held before that also as much depends on the complex security situation there, they said.

In normal circumstances, the J&amp;K assembly's six-year term was to end on March 16, 2021. The other state assemblies and the Lok Sabha have a five-year term.

While the term of the Sikkim Assembly ends on May 27, 2019, the terms of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Arunachal Pradesh assemblies end on June 18, June 11 and June 1 respectively.

In 2004, the Election Commission had announced four-phase Lok Sabha polls on February 29. While the first date of poll was April 20, the last date was May 10.

In 2009, the EC had announced Lok Sabha poll scheduled on March 2. The five-phase polls began on April 16 and ended on May 13.

In 2014, the EC had announced the election schedule on March 5 and the nine-phase electoral exercise was spread across April and May. While the first phase polling was on April 7, the last phase was on May 12.&nbsp;

The dates for the Lok Sabha elections are likely to be announced in the first week of March, sources indicated on Friday. The term of the present Lok Sabha ends on June 3.

The dates for the Lok Sabha elections are likely to be announced in the first week of March, sources indicated on Friday. The term of the present Lok Sabha ends on June 3. The Election Commission is in the process of deciding the number of phases and the months in which polling would be held, they said. The charting of the phases would also depend on the availability of security forces and other requirements, the sources said, adding the announcement of the mega exercise is likely to be made in first week of March. There is a possibility that the EC may go by the precedent and hold assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh along with the Lok Sabha polls. Since the Jammu and Kashmir assembly has been dissolved, the EC is bound to hold fresh polls there within six months. It was dissolved in November, 2018 and the upper limit ends in May. The poll panel may hold elections in Jammu and Kashmir along with the Lok Sabha polls as well. But it can be held before that also as much depends on the complex security situation there, they said. In normal circumstances, the J&K assembly's six-year term was to end on March 16, 2021. The other state assemblies and the Lok Sabha have a five-year term. While the term of the Sikkim Assembly ends on May 27, 2019, the terms of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Arunachal Pradesh assemblies end on June 18, June 11 and June 1 respectively. In 2004, the Election Commission had announced four-phase Lok Sabha polls on February 29. While the first date of poll was April 20, the last date was May 10. In 2009, the EC had announced Lok Sabha poll scheduled on March 2. The five-phase polls began on April 16 and ended on May 13. In 2014, the EC had announced the election schedule on March 5 and the nine-phase electoral exercise was spread across April and May. While the first phase polling was on April 7, the last phase was on May 12.

Election Commission may announce Lok Sabha poll schedule in March first week: Sources

Members of Bangladesh's opposition BNP-NUF alliance on Tuesday walked out of an Election Commission meeting, alleging that the behaviour of its chief was "inappropriate" and he was not taking their arguments into consideration during the talks.&nbsp;

The opposition delegation led by National Unity Front (NUF) convenor and eminent jurist Kamal Hossain met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Nurul Huda to discuss the alleged arrests of the coalition's supporters in police crackdown ahead of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-at-least-10-journalists-attacked-ahead-of-poll-186456">general elections</a> this week.&nbsp;

In the meeting, the alliance also raised the issue of debarring it from holding its wrap up election rally in the capital. It also accused police of playing a "biased role" against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/10500-arrests-ahead-of-bangladesh-poll-opposition-186427">opposition supporters</a>.&nbsp;

"We walked out of the meeting as the CEC was not taking into consideration our words," BNP's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told reporters after coming out of the meeting within half-an-hour it began.&nbsp;

The CEC's "behaviour was inappropriate", he added.

Alamgir is leading the party in the absence of jailed BNP chairperson and ex-premier Khaleda Zia and her convicted "fugitive" son and party's acting chief Tarique Rahman.&nbsp;

The opposition alleged police have arrested about 10,500 of their activists in a crackdown ahead of elections this week with an intention to create a "climate of fear". However, police said no one was detained without specific charge and warrant.

BNP spokesman Rizvi Ahmed called the charges "fictitious" and an attempt to expose their activists to "ghost" cases" to favour the ruling Awami League party of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Hasina and Zia have been political foes since the introduction of democracy in 1991. They have traditionally alternated in power but Hasina's current rule has lasted since 2009 and Zia's jail term this year prevented her from taking part in the election.

Members of Bangladesh's opposition BNP-NUF alliance on Tuesday walked out of an Election Commission meeting, alleging that the behaviour of its chief was "inappropriate" and he was not taking their arguments into consideration during the talks.

Members of Bangladesh's opposition BNP-NUF alliance on Tuesday walked out of an Election Commission meeting, alleging that the behaviour of its chief was "inappropriate" and he was not taking their arguments into consideration during the talks. The opposition delegation led by National Unity Front (NUF) convenor and eminent jurist Kamal Hossain met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Nurul Huda to discuss the alleged arrests of the coalition's supporters in police crackdown ahead of the general elections this week. In the meeting, the alliance also raised the issue of debarring it from holding its wrap up election rally in the capital. It also accused police of playing a "biased role" against opposition supporters. "We walked out of the meeting as the CEC was not taking into consideration our words," BNP's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told reporters after coming out of the meeting within half-an-hour it began. The CEC's "behaviour was inappropriate", he added. Alamgir is leading the party in the absence of jailed BNP chairperson and ex-premier Khaleda Zia and her convicted "fugitive" son and party's acting chief Tarique Rahman. The opposition alleged police have arrested about 10,500 of their activists in a crackdown ahead of elections this week with an intention to create a "climate of fear". However, police said no one was detained without specific charge and warrant. BNP spokesman Rizvi Ahmed called the charges "fictitious" and an attempt to expose their activists to "ghost" cases" to favour the ruling Awami League party of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina and Zia have been political foes since the introduction of democracy in 1991. They have traditionally alternated in power but Hasina's current rule has lasted since 2009 and Zia's jail term this year prevented her from taking part in the election.

Bangladesh polls: Opposition storms out of Election Commission meeting

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sunil-arora-takes-charge-as-new-chief-election-commissioner-of-india-180847">The Election Commission</a> will make a fresh push for electoral reforms with the government, including making the filing of false declaration a ground for disqualification and putting a cap on expenditure by candidates in legislative council polls, in the coming days.

According to highly-placed sources in the poll panel, the EC top brass, at the planned meeting with Legislative Secretary G Narayana Raju after the end of the winter session of Parliament, will also ask the government to make bribery during the poll period a cognisable offence.

The winter session of Parliament will end on January 8.

While the Law Ministry is the administrative ministry for the EC, the Legislative Department is the nodal unit for issues related to the poll panel.

The sources said, the Commission would also ask the ministry to take a call on its demand to extend constitutional protection to the two election commissioners on the lines of the Chief Election Commissioner.

The President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners after the Law Ministry initiates the file for their appointment.

A Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from the office only through impeachment by Parliament. The President can remove the ECs based on the recommendation of the CEC.

In its report on electoral reforms submitted in March&nbsp;2015, the Law Commission had proposed extending constitutional protection to the two ECs.

The EC had been pushing to extend constitutional protection to the election commissioners.

Another proposal that the EC would press for is making electoral law gender neutral for armed forces personnel.

As of now, an army man's wife is entitled to be enrolled as a service voter, but a woman army officer's husband is not, according to the provisions in the electoral law.

But a bill pending before the Rajya Sabha proposes to replace the term 'wife' with 'spouse', thus making the provision of gender neutral.

Members of the armed forces, central armed police forces, personnel of state police forces posted outside their state and employees of the Centre&nbsp; 
posted outside India are eligible to be enrolled as service voters.

"Much depends on Parliament. The bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha... It is a major electoral reform for service voters ahead of the Lok Sabha polls... We want government to get it passed at the earliest," an EC official said.

Referring to the issue of filing the false declaration, the sources said, as of now, it attracts a six months' jail term. But the EC wants to make it into an "electoral offence", they said.

Conviction in an electoral offence is a ground for disqualification. "Jail term of six months does not instil fear. Disqualification would," another official explained.

As of now, candidates contesting legislative council elections don't have a bar on campaigning expenses, which, the EC wants to put a cap on.

The expenditure should be half of what is allowed for candidates contesting assembly polls. Every state has a different expenditure limit based on its size, a number of voters and assembly seats.

As of today, bribery in elections is a non-cognisable offence where an investigation cannot take place without a magistrate's permission. The EC wants to make it a cognizable offence and bring in the category of "serious" crimes like murder, dowry, death,and rape.&nbsp;

The Election Commission will make a fresh push for electoral reforms with the government, including making the filing of false declaration a ground for disqualification and putting a cap on expenditure by candidates in legislative council polls, in the coming days.

The Election Commission will make a fresh push for electoral reforms with the government, including making the filing of false declaration a ground for disqualification and putting a cap on expenditure by candidates in legislative council polls, in the coming days. According to highly-placed sources in the poll panel, the EC top brass, at the planned meeting with Legislative Secretary G Narayana Raju after the end of the winter session of Parliament, will also ask the government to make bribery during the poll period a cognisable offence. The winter session of Parliament will end on January 8. While the Law Ministry is the administrative ministry for the EC, the Legislative Department is the nodal unit for issues related to the poll panel. The sources said, the Commission would also ask the ministry to take a call on its demand to extend constitutional protection to the two election commissioners on the lines of the Chief Election Commissioner. The President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners after the Law Ministry initiates the file for their appointment. A Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from the office only through impeachment by Parliament. The President can remove the ECs based on the recommendation of the CEC. In its report on electoral reforms submitted in March 2015, the Law Commission had proposed extending constitutional protection to the two ECs. The EC had been pushing to extend constitutional protection to the election commissioners. Another proposal that the EC would press for is making electoral law gender neutral for armed forces personnel. As of now, an army man's wife is entitled to be enrolled as a service voter, but a woman army officer's husband is not, according to the provisions in the electoral law. But a bill pending before the Rajya Sabha proposes to replace the term 'wife' with 'spouse', thus making the provision of gender neutral. Members of the armed forces, central armed police forces, personnel of state police forces posted outside their state and employees of the Centre posted outside India are eligible to be enrolled as service voters. "Much depends on Parliament. The bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha... It is a major electoral reform for service voters ahead of the Lok Sabha polls... We want government to get it passed at the earliest," an EC official said. Referring to the issue of filing the false declaration, the sources said, as of now, it attracts a six months' jail term. But the EC wants to make it into an "electoral offence", they said. Conviction in an electoral offence is a ground for disqualification. "Jail term of six months does not instil fear. Disqualification would," another official explained. As of now, candidates contesting legislative council elections don't have a bar on campaigning expenses, which, the EC wants to put a cap on. The expenditure should be half of what is allowed for candidates contesting assembly polls. Every state has a different expenditure limit based on its size, a number of voters and assembly seats. As of today, bribery in elections is a non-cognisable offence where an investigation cannot take place without a magistrate's permission. The EC wants to make it a cognizable offence and bring in the category of "serious" crimes like murder, dowry, death,and rape.

Make false disclosure an 'electoral offence': Election Commission to tell Law Ministry

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-slams-us-statement-over-polls-observers-186042">Bangladesh's Election Commission</a> on Sunday allowed Jamaat-e-Islami, a crucial ally of jailed former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Opposition BNP, to contest the December 30 general elections, two months after it scraped the fundamentalist party's registration.

The Jamaat will contest from 25 seats in the parliamentary polls with 'sheaf of paddy', the electoral symbol of the BNP.&nbsp;

"The Commission does not have a legal option to cancel their (Jamaat leaders) candidacies. Their candidatures will, therefore, stay in place," EC secretary Helal Uddin Ahmed told reporters here.&nbsp;

The EC's decision came after the High Court earlier this week directed it to swiftly decide on a plea of 25 leaders of the unregistered party to contest the election as independent candidates on behalf of their alliance partners.

On October 29, the EC formally scrapped Jamaat's registration as a political party in compliance with an order of the Supreme Court.

A high court bench in 2013 declared Jamaat's registration with the EC illegal on a writ petition filed by several Islamic groups, saying the party's ideology was contrary to Bangladesh's Constitution.

The Supreme Court upheld the high court judgment when Jamaat challenged the verdict in the apex court.

The hardline Islamist party, however, is now in a dilapidated state with most of its senior leaders executed in the past five years after being convicted by special tribunals on 1971 war crimes charges.

Jamaat was opposed to Bangladesh's 1971 independence from West Pakistan and its leaders and workers sided with Pakistani troops in carrying out atrocities and genocide in then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

Bangladesh's post-independence government banned Jamaat but the subsequent regimes withdrew the ban allowing the party to re-emerge in politics.

The party became a crucial partner of Zia's BNP-led four-party alliance government in 2001 and its chief Moti-ur-Rahman Nizami and secretary general Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujaheed became ministers.

The incumbent Awami League government assuming power after its victory in the 2008 elections and initiated a process to bring to justice the Bengali perpetrators of the 1971 war crimes.

Both Nizami and Mujaheed were sentenced to death along with several other party stalwarts by special courts.

Bangladesh's Election Commission on Sunday allowed Jamaat-e-Islami, a crucial ally of jailed former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Opposition BNP, to contest the December 30 general elections, two months after it scraped the fundamentalist party's registration.

Bangladesh's Election Commission on Sunday allowed Jamaat-e-Islami, a crucial ally of jailed former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Opposition BNP, to contest the December 30 general elections, two months after it scraped the fundamentalist party's registration. The Jamaat will contest from 25 seats in the parliamentary polls with 'sheaf of paddy', the electoral symbol of the BNP. "The Commission does not have a legal option to cancel their (Jamaat leaders) candidacies. Their candidatures will, therefore, stay in place," EC secretary Helal Uddin Ahmed told reporters here. The EC's decision came after the High Court earlier this week directed it to swiftly decide on a plea of 25 leaders of the unregistered party to contest the election as independent candidates on behalf of their alliance partners. On October 29, the EC formally scrapped Jamaat's registration as a political party in compliance with an order of the Supreme Court. A high court bench in 2013 declared Jamaat's registration with the EC illegal on a writ petition filed by several Islamic groups, saying the party's ideology was contrary to Bangladesh's Constitution. The Supreme Court upheld the high court judgment when Jamaat challenged the verdict in the apex court. The hardline Islamist party, however, is now in a dilapidated state with most of its senior leaders executed in the past five years after being convicted by special tribunals on 1971 war crimes charges. Jamaat was opposed to Bangladesh's 1971 independence from West Pakistan and its leaders and workers sided with Pakistani troops in carrying out atrocities and genocide in then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Bangladesh's post-independence government banned Jamaat but the subsequent regimes withdrew the ban allowing the party to re-emerge in politics. The party became a crucial partner of Zia's BNP-led four-party alliance government in 2001 and its chief Moti-ur-Rahman Nizami and secretary general Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujaheed became ministers. The incumbent Awami League government assuming power after its victory in the 2008 elections and initiated a process to bring to justice the Bengali perpetrators of the 1971 war crimes. Both Nizami and Mujaheed were sentenced to death along with several other party stalwarts by special courts.

Bangladesh EC allows hardline Islamist party to contest upcoming general election 

Bangladesh on Sunday described as "disheartening" a US statement that criticised Dhaka's "inability" to grant visas to an American poll observer group to monitor the December 30 general election.

"As one of the largest democracies in the world and mutually respectful to others, Bangladesh would expect and welcome constructive statements towards its democratic process from its friends and partners," the foreign office here said.

The US State Department two days ago expressed its disappointment over the Bangladesh government's "inability to grant credentials and issue visas" to a group of election observers called Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) funded by the National Democratic Institute.

The State Department said Bangladesh's forced ANFREL to cancel its planned mission.

The foreign office, however, said "accreditation of international election observers from a number of organisations including ANFREL is currently under process", adding that Bangladesh would continue to grant credentials to "eligible" international and local election observers to monitor the upcoming polls.

"But it (Bangladesh) certainly has the responsibility to ensure that the applicants meet all required criterion as per applicable laws and guidelines of the Election Commission," the foreign office said in a statement.

The statement said as of now, 175 election observers from different countries and organisations were accredited to undertake election monitoring missions in Bangladesh and in addition the Election Commission has registered 118 local organisations and also approved 25,920 local observers to monitor the polls.

"In this context, the decision of ANFREL to cancel its observation mission is entirely their own despite the fact that nearly half of its applicants have already been approved and the rest are under process," the foreign office said.

It said the polls were being conducted by the Election Commission (EC) "which is a constitutional body and independent in the exercise of its functions".

The statement simultaneously noted that a controversial Bangladeshi NGO 'Odhikar' was providing funds for the ANFREL mission while 'Odhikar' "is widely known for its disproportionate bias and prejudice against Bangladesh, in particular, the government of Awami League".

Besides, one of the top-ranking Bangladeshi members of 'Odhikar' was earlier appointed by the past BNP-led government as the deputy attorney general, "which provides ground for disqualification of his organisation and related entities as independent and neutral observer of the national elections," it said.

The foreign office said Bangladesh's election law enables the Election Commission to "permit a person as election observer who is in no way associated with or affiliated to any political party or contesting candidate and who is not known for his sympathy, direct or indirect, for any particular political ideology".&nbsp;

Bangladesh on Sunday described as "disheartening" a US statement that criticised Dhaka's "inability" to grant visas to an American poll observer group to monitor the December 30 general election.

Bangladesh on Sunday described as "disheartening" a US statement that criticised Dhaka's "inability" to grant visas to an American poll observer group to monitor the December 30 general election. "As one of the largest democracies in the world and mutually respectful to others, Bangladesh would expect and welcome constructive statements towards its democratic process from its friends and partners," the foreign office here said. The US State Department two days ago expressed its disappointment over the Bangladesh government's "inability to grant credentials and issue visas" to a group of election observers called Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) funded by the National Democratic Institute. The State Department said Bangladesh's forced ANFREL to cancel its planned mission. The foreign office, however, said "accreditation of international election observers from a number of organisations including ANFREL is currently under process", adding that Bangladesh would continue to grant credentials to "eligible" international and local election observers to monitor the upcoming polls. "But it (Bangladesh) certainly has the responsibility to ensure that the applicants meet all required criterion as per applicable laws and guidelines of the Election Commission," the foreign office said in a statement. The statement said as of now, 175 election observers from different countries and organisations were accredited to undertake election monitoring missions in Bangladesh and in addition the Election Commission has registered 118 local organisations and also approved 25,920 local observers to monitor the polls. "In this context, the decision of ANFREL to cancel its observation mission is entirely their own despite the fact that nearly half of its applicants have already been approved and the rest are under process," the foreign office said. It said the polls were being conducted by the Election Commission (EC) "which is a constitutional body and independent in the exercise of its functions". The statement simultaneously noted that a controversial Bangladeshi NGO 'Odhikar' was providing funds for the ANFREL mission while 'Odhikar' "is widely known for its disproportionate bias and prejudice against Bangladesh, in particular, the government of Awami League". Besides, one of the top-ranking Bangladeshi members of 'Odhikar' was earlier appointed by the past BNP-led government as the deputy attorney general, "which provides ground for disqualification of his organisation and related entities as independent and neutral observer of the national elections," it said. The foreign office said Bangladesh's election law enables the Election Commission to "permit a person as election observer who is in no way associated with or affiliated to any political party or contesting candidate and who is not known for his sympathy, direct or indirect, for any particular political ideology".

Bangladesh slams US statement over polls observers

Thailand&nbsp;will hold a much-delayed general election on February&nbsp;24, pending the lifting of a ban on political activity by the junta in Bangkok by January, the Election Commission said on Tuesday.

The junta imposed a strict ban on political activity after it took power in 2014, citing the need to impose order after months of street protests against the democratically elected government of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra.

"The Election Commission has set February 24, 2019, as election day," Deputy Election Commissioner Secretary-General Nat Laosisawakul told reporters.

"On the lifting of the political ban, this will depend on the government," Nat said.

The election, which many hope will restore democracy in Southeast Asia's second-biggest economy, will likely pit the populist political movement backed by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and supported by many in rural areas against the military and royalist establishment.

The Bangkok-based establishment seized power in successive coups in 2006 and 2014 and now has its own proxy political parties.

The military government has repeatedly pushed back the general election but said last week the ban on political activities would likely be lifted later this month and that political parties would be able to start campaigning in early January.

Thailand will hold a much-delayed general election on February 24, pending the lifting of a ban on political activity by the junta in Bangkok by January, the Election Commission said on Tuesday.

Thailand will hold a much-delayed general election on February 24, pending the lifting of a ban on political activity by the junta in Bangkok by January, the Election Commission said on Tuesday. The junta imposed a strict ban on political activity after it took power in 2014, citing the need to impose order after months of street protests against the democratically elected government of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra. "The Election Commission has set February 24, 2019, as election day," Deputy Election Commissioner Secretary-General Nat Laosisawakul told reporters. "On the lifting of the political ban, this will depend on the government," Nat said. The election, which many hope will restore democracy in Southeast Asia's second-biggest economy, will likely pit the populist political movement backed by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and supported by many in rural areas against the military and royalist establishment. The Bangkok-based establishment seized power in successive coups in 2006 and 2014 and now has its own proxy political parties. The military government has repeatedly pushed back the general election but said last week the ban on political activities would likely be lifted later this month and that political parties would be able to start campaigning in early January.

Thailand to hold general election on February 24: Election Commission

The Election Commission Friday ordered the removal of returning officer of Pali in the Rajasthan Assembly seat after an EVM was reportedly found at the residence of a BJP candidate.

Earlier in the day, the poll panel had said that a sector officer carrying a reserve machine had gone to the BJP candidate's house following which the sector officer was removed and the EVM taken out of election system.

The EC also ordered removal of Pali returning officer Mahaveer, who has been transferred, and Rakesh from Jodhpur has been asked to take the charge, the commission said.

A video purportedly showing the electronic voting machine laying unattended in the house has gone viral.

The Election Commission Friday ordered the removal of returning officer of Pali in the Rajasthan Assembly seat after an EVM was reportedly found at the residence of a BJP candidate.

The Election Commission Friday ordered the removal of returning officer of Pali in the Rajasthan Assembly seat after an EVM was reportedly found at the residence of a BJP candidate. Earlier in the day, the poll panel had said that a sector officer carrying a reserve machine had gone to the BJP candidate's house following which the sector officer was removed and the EVM taken out of election system. The EC also ordered removal of Pali returning officer Mahaveer, who has been transferred, and Rakesh from Jodhpur has been asked to take the charge, the commission said. A video purportedly showing the electronic voting machine laying unattended in the house has gone viral.

Rajasthan: EC orders removal of Pali returning officer after EVM reportedly found at BJP candidate's house

In a bid to check the flow of excess money in electioneering, the Election Commission has lowered the limit of cash transactions by candidates for campaigning purposes from Rs 20,000 to Rs 10,000 per day.

In an instruction sent to all chief electoral officers, the poll panel said that for transactions beyond Rs 10,000, the candidates and parties will have to make payment using cross cheques, drafts or electronic means, including NEFT/RTGS, through the account of the candidate opened for electioneering.

In April, 2011, the EC had set the daily cash limit to Rs 20,000. But now it has been revised keeping in mind the amendments in section 40A(3) of the Income Tax Act in 2017.

The new changes came into being from November 12 and would have a bearing on assembly polls in Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Now, a candidate cannot receive a donation or loan in cash, in excess of Rs 10,000 from a single person or entity during campaigning.

The election watchdog has been pushing for greater transparency in election-related expenditure by parties and candidates.

Like individuals, there should be a ceiling on expenditure made by political parties during polls, according to a 2015 Election Commission draft document based on the 'general agreement' among participants.

At present, while there is a ceiling on campaigning fund for individual candidates in electoral fray, there is no such cap on the money which political parties can spend for electioneering.&nbsp;

In a bid to check the flow of excess money in electioneering, the Election Commission has lowered the limit of cash transactions by candidates for campaigning purposes from Rs 20,000 to Rs 10,000 per day.

In a bid to check the flow of excess money in electioneering, the Election Commission has lowered the limit of cash transactions by candidates for campaigning purposes from Rs 20,000 to Rs 10,000 per day. In an instruction sent to all chief electoral officers, the poll panel said that for transactions beyond Rs 10,000, the candidates and parties will have to make payment using cross cheques, drafts or electronic means, including NEFT/RTGS, through the account of the candidate opened for electioneering. In April, 2011, the EC had set the daily cash limit to Rs 20,000. But now it has been revised keeping in mind the amendments in section 40A(3) of the Income Tax Act in 2017. The new changes came into being from November 12 and would have a bearing on assembly polls in Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Now, a candidate cannot receive a donation or loan in cash, in excess of Rs 10,000 from a single person or entity during campaigning. The election watchdog has been pushing for greater transparency in election-related expenditure by parties and candidates. Like individuals, there should be a ceiling on expenditure made by political parties during polls, according to a 2015 Election Commission draft document based on the 'general agreement' among participants. At present, while there is a ceiling on campaigning fund for individual candidates in electoral fray, there is no such cap on the money which political parties can spend for electioneering.

Election Commission lowers daily cash transaction limit of candidates for campaigning purposes

The Election Commission has&nbsp;said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year.

"The Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls must be held on the first occasion before May ... It could be held before parliamentary elections also," Chief Election Commissioner O P Rawat said.

He said as per the Supreme Court, the outer limit for holding fresh polls after dissolution of a house is six months, that is May, 2019.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/governor-rule-in-jk-de-facto-modi-rule-says-congress-as-it-seeks-fresh-polls-soon-178900">Governor rule in J&amp;K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon</a>

At the same time, he made it clear that the election body&nbsp;will decide on the poll dates after "considering all aspects."

He said, the top court's&nbsp;verdict, an outcome of presidential reference, also said polls will have to be held on the first occasion which means even before six months.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721"> I did not act on BJP's behest, says J&amp;K governor Satya Pal Malik after dissolving </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721">assembly</a>

He said the same principle was applied in Telangana where the assembly was dissolved prematurely.

The state g<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-mehbooba-mufti-writes-to-governor-stakes-claim-to-form-government-178644">overnor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly</a> on Wednesday evening after People's Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form a government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress.

They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly.&nbsp;

Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others.

The Election Commission has said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year.

The Election Commission has said fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be held within the next six months even as it did not rule out the possibility of holding polls there before the Lok Sabha polls due next year. "The Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls must be held on the first occasion before May ... It could be held before parliamentary elections also," Chief Election Commissioner O P Rawat said. He said as per the Supreme Court, the outer limit for holding fresh polls after dissolution of a house is six months, that is May, 2019. Also read: Governor rule in J&K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon At the same time, he made it clear that the election body will decide on the poll dates after "considering all aspects." He said, the top court's verdict, an outcome of presidential reference, also said polls will have to be held on the first occasion which means even before six months. Also read: I did not act on BJP's behest, says J&K governor Satya Pal Malik after dissolving assembly He said the same principle was applied in Telangana where the assembly was dissolved prematurely. The state governor Satya Pal Malik dissolved the assembly on Wednesday evening after People's Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form a government along with her arch-rival Omar Abdullah's National Conference (NC) and the Congress. They claimed the support of 56 lawmakers in the 87-member state assembly. Shortly after, People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also staked claims to form the government. Lone, who has two lawmakers, said he had the support of the BJP's 25 legislators and "more than 18" others.

J&K polls to be held before May, could be before general elections: CEC Rawat

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state.

The commission has directed that S Rajesh Toppo, secretary and commissioner of public relations in the state government, be transferred from his present post "in context of alleged statements made by him", a spokesperson said.

"The commission observed that such statements indicate partisan behaviour apart from use of uncivilised language unbecoming of a senior civil servant," the spokesperson said.

Toppo was allegedly caught on tape asking a journalist to film a video of Congress members abusing one of their senior leaders.

The official is purportedly heard saying that he is willing to spend some money for the sting video.&nbsp;

The second phase polling in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh will be held on November 20. The first phase polling in 18 seats took place on November 12.&nbsp;

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state.

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state. The commission has directed that S Rajesh Toppo, secretary and commissioner of public relations in the state government, be transferred from his present post "in context of alleged statements made by him", a spokesperson said. "The commission observed that such statements indicate partisan behaviour apart from use of uncivilised language unbecoming of a senior civil servant," the spokesperson said. Toppo was allegedly caught on tape asking a journalist to film a video of Congress members abusing one of their senior leaders. The official is purportedly heard saying that he is willing to spend some money for the sting video. The second phase polling in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh will be held on November 20. The first phase polling in 18 seats took place on November 12.

Election Commission orders removal of Chhattisgarh public relations department chief

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has identified 32 polling stations in Mizoram as 'critical' and 38 'vulnerable locations', the state's Joint Chief Electoral Officer Zorammuana said Sunday.

The state will have a total of 1,164 polling stations for the November 28 Assembly polls.

Along with the state armed police, 40 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) would also be deployed in critical polling stations and also in those at vulnerable locations, Zorammuana told PTI.

While the training for poll officials is on, the state election machinery is preparing to conduct free, fair and peaceful polls as was done in the past.

Meanwhile, poll campaign in the state is in full swing with candidates including Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, former chief minister and opposition MNF president Zoramthanga campaigning not only in their respective constituencies but also in other parts of the state.

Public meetings, joint platforms and door-to-door canvassing were being held in almost all the places.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has identified 32 polling stations in Mizoram as 'critical' and 38 'vulnerable locations', the state's Joint Chief Electoral Officer Zorammuana said Sunday.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has identified 32 polling stations in Mizoram as 'critical' and 38 'vulnerable locations', the state's Joint Chief Electoral Officer Zorammuana said Sunday. The state will have a total of 1,164 polling stations for the November 28 Assembly polls. Along with the state armed police, 40 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) would also be deployed in critical polling stations and also in those at vulnerable locations, Zorammuana told PTI. While the training for poll officials is on, the state election machinery is preparing to conduct free, fair and peaceful polls as was done in the past. Meanwhile, poll campaign in the state is in full swing with candidates including Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, former chief minister and opposition MNF president Zoramthanga campaigning not only in their respective constituencies but also in other parts of the state. Public meetings, joint platforms and door-to-door canvassing were being held in almost all the places.

Election Commission identifies 32 polling stations in Mizoram as 'critical'

The Election Commission on Friday imposed a near month-long ban on holding exit polls beginning November 12 in the five poll-bound states.

&nbsp;A notification issued by the poll panel said between 7 am of November 12 and 5.30 pm of December 7, "conducting any exit poll and publishing or publicising the result of exit poll by means of the print or electronic media or in any other manner shall be prohibited" .

While Chhattisgarh is going to polls in two phases on November 12 and 20, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have elections on November 28. 
Rajasthan and Telangana will go to polls on December 7.

Using powers under the Representation of People Act, 1951, EC bans exit polls from the time the poll begins till half-an-hour after the polling ends.&nbsp;

The poll panel had proposed that there should be a prohibition on publication and broadcast of the results of opinion polls starting from the date of notification of elections till the completion of the last phase of polls to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies.&nbsp;

The proposal is pending with the government.&nbsp;

The Election Commission on Friday imposed a near month-long ban on holding exit polls beginning November 12 in the five poll-bound states. A notification issued by the poll panel said between 7 am of November 12 and 5.

The Election Commission on Friday imposed a near month-long ban on holding exit polls beginning November 12 in the five poll-bound states. A notification issued by the poll panel said between 7 am of November 12 and 5.30 pm of December 7, "conducting any exit poll and publishing or publicising the result of exit poll by means of the print or electronic media or in any other manner shall be prohibited" . While Chhattisgarh is going to polls in two phases on November 12 and 20, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have elections on November 28. Rajasthan and Telangana will go to polls on December 7. Using powers under the Representation of People Act, 1951, EC bans exit polls from the time the poll begins till half-an-hour after the polling ends. The poll panel had proposed that there should be a prohibition on publication and broadcast of the results of opinion polls starting from the date of notification of elections till the completion of the last phase of polls to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies. The proposal is pending with the government.

Election Commission bans exit polls from November 12 to December 7

A high-level team of Election Commission officials would be arriving in Mizoram on Friday to hold talks with top government officials and leaders of civil societies over the crisis that has rocked the poll arrangements in the state, official sources said.

The team, led by Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, would be visiting the state two days after Chief Electoral Officer S B Shashank was summoned to Delhi by the EC, following a massive agitation for his ouster by NGO Coordination Committee - a conglomerate of civil societies and student organisations.

Shashank had allegedly sought deployment of additional central armed police forces (CAPF) in the state and complained to the EC that the state's former principal secretary Lalnunmawia Chuaungo was interfering with the poll process.

Chuaungo, a native of Mizoram and a Gujarat-cadre IAS officer was relieved of his duties earlier this month.

The committee, along with other political leaders, had been demanding Shashank's exit from the state since then.

The NGO also demanded that 11,232 Bru voters lodged in six Tripura relief camps be allowed to exercise their franchise at their respective polling stations in Mizoram and not in Tripura as committed by the poll panel in 2014.

Thousands of people from the Bru community had fled Mizoram in 1997 following ethnic clashes. They have since been lodged in six relief camps in Tripura. 
Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28.

Monday is the last day for filing poll nominations, the list of which is expected to be released by 5pm.

A three-member EC team that visited the state on Tuesday night held talks with the government officials and the NGO to resolve the crises in the poll-bound state.

The meeting, however, remained inconclusive as the team said the final call would be made by the EC.

A high-level team of Election Commission officials would be arriving in Mizoram on Friday to hold talks with top government officials and leaders of civil societies over the crisis that has rocked the poll arrangements in the state, official sources said.

A high-level team of Election Commission officials would be arriving in Mizoram on Friday to hold talks with top government officials and leaders of civil societies over the crisis that has rocked the poll arrangements in the state, official sources said. The team, led by Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, would be visiting the state two days after Chief Electoral Officer S B Shashank was summoned to Delhi by the EC, following a massive agitation for his ouster by NGO Coordination Committee - a conglomerate of civil societies and student organisations. Shashank had allegedly sought deployment of additional central armed police forces (CAPF) in the state and complained to the EC that the state's former principal secretary Lalnunmawia Chuaungo was interfering with the poll process. Chuaungo, a native of Mizoram and a Gujarat-cadre IAS officer was relieved of his duties earlier this month. The committee, along with other political leaders, had been demanding Shashank's exit from the state since then. The NGO also demanded that 11,232 Bru voters lodged in six Tripura relief camps be allowed to exercise their franchise at their respective polling stations in Mizoram and not in Tripura as committed by the poll panel in 2014. Thousands of people from the Bru community had fled Mizoram in 1997 following ethnic clashes. They have since been lodged in six relief camps in Tripura. Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28. Monday is the last day for filing poll nominations, the list of which is expected to be released by 5pm. A three-member EC team that visited the state on Tuesday night held talks with the government officials and the NGO to resolve the crises in the poll-bound state. The meeting, however, remained inconclusive as the team said the final call would be made by the EC.

Mizoram polls: Election Commission team to hold talks with officials, leaders

Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S B Shashank, whose removal has been demanded by the chief minister and several NGOs, said he would leave for New Delhi on Wednesday after being summoned by the Election Commission.

Shashank said he would meet the poll panel on Thursday in the national capital.

Meanwhile, hundreds of members of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) continued their picketing in front of the CEO's office from 8am.

The chairman of the NGO Coordination Committee, Vanlalruata, said the picketing would be called off only after the departure of Shashank.

The meeting of a visiting Election Commission team, state government officials and leaders of the NGO Coordination Committee on the current standoff on Tuesday night remained inconclusive as the team sent by Election Commission said that the final call would be made by the poll panel.

The team members said that they would submit their findings to the commission.

Vanlalruata said that Shashank should be transferred from Mizoram and the Bru voters in the Tripura relief camps should exercise their franchise in their respective polling stations in Mizoram.

Thousands of people from the Bru community fled Mizoram in the late 1990s following ethnic clashes. They have been lodged in relief camps in Tripura.

The protesters are also protesting the removal of the state's principal secretary (Home) Lalnunmawia Chuaungo, a native of the state and Gujarat-cadre IAS officer.

The state observed a bandh on Tuesday in response to a call by the Mizoram Merchants' Association (MiMA) to extend support to the agitation.

Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Lal thanhawla had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that "as people have lost faith in him, the only solution for smooth conduct of the Assembly elections 2018 would be removal of CEO S B Shashank from office forthwith."

Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly is scheduled for November 28.

Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S B Shashank, whose removal has been demanded by the chief minister and several NGOs, said he would leave for New Delhi on Wednesday after being summoned by the Election Commission.

Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S B Shashank, whose removal has been demanded by the chief minister and several NGOs, said he would leave for New Delhi on Wednesday after being summoned by the Election Commission. Shashank said he would meet the poll panel on Thursday in the national capital. Meanwhile, hundreds of members of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) continued their picketing in front of the CEO's office from 8am. The chairman of the NGO Coordination Committee, Vanlalruata, said the picketing would be called off only after the departure of Shashank. The meeting of a visiting Election Commission team, state government officials and leaders of the NGO Coordination Committee on the current standoff on Tuesday night remained inconclusive as the team sent by Election Commission said that the final call would be made by the poll panel. The team members said that they would submit their findings to the commission. Vanlalruata said that Shashank should be transferred from Mizoram and the Bru voters in the Tripura relief camps should exercise their franchise in their respective polling stations in Mizoram. Thousands of people from the Bru community fled Mizoram in the late 1990s following ethnic clashes. They have been lodged in relief camps in Tripura. The protesters are also protesting the removal of the state's principal secretary (Home) Lalnunmawia Chuaungo, a native of the state and Gujarat-cadre IAS officer. The state observed a bandh on Tuesday in response to a call by the Mizoram Merchants' Association (MiMA) to extend support to the agitation. Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Lal thanhawla had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that "as people have lost faith in him, the only solution for smooth conduct of the Assembly elections 2018 would be removal of CEO S B Shashank from office forthwith." Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly is scheduled for November 28.

Mizoram CEO to leave for Delhi on summons by Election Commission

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal Thursday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat against deletion of names of "lakhs" of voters in the national capital allegedly "at the instance of the BJP".

He sought an appointment from Rawat to discuss the matter.

"It has come to our notice that names of lakhs of voters in Delhi have been deleted after last assembly elections. Most names...Have been deleted with mala fide intention. Procedure prescribed under law for deletion of names has not been followed," he wrote in the letter.&nbsp;

A "cursory look" on the deleted names showed that "most of them" were AAP or Congress voters, Kejriwal claimed, alleging it might have been done by some officers "at the instance of BJP" to prevent them from voting.

"It appears to be a huge scam. Its implications on democracy are grave. Elections in Delhi would be a farce if conducted through these voters lists," he wrote.

Kejriwal demanded a time-bound and transparent enquiry by the Election Commission and also adding back of the deleted names.

Recently, AAP in-charge for the South Delhi Lok Sabha seat, Raghav Chadha had alleged that around one lakh names were deleted from voters' list in the constituency in the past six months to one year.

Kejriwal said that an enquiry conducted by him revealed that in nine cases, names were deleted in July 2018, after a door-to-door survey by booth-level officer(BLO) who could not locate addresses of the voters.

After the enquiry, the officers got Form 6 filled for enrolling five of the persons in the voters list and assured that remaining persons will also be included in the list.

"If the BLO could not locate the houses during the door-to-door survey in July 2018, how could he locate houses so easily after enquiry was ordered?," he questioned.

The Delhi Chief Minister also said it was noticed that most names were deleted after the previous Assembly elections in Delhi.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal Thursday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat against deletion of names of "lakhs" of voters in the national capital allegedly "at the instance of the BJP".

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal Thursday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat against deletion of names of "lakhs" of voters in the national capital allegedly "at the instance of the BJP". He sought an appointment from Rawat to discuss the matter. "It has come to our notice that names of lakhs of voters in Delhi have been deleted after last assembly elections. Most names...Have been deleted with mala fide intention. Procedure prescribed under law for deletion of names has not been followed," he wrote in the letter. A "cursory look" on the deleted names showed that "most of them" were AAP or Congress voters, Kejriwal claimed, alleging it might have been done by some officers "at the instance of BJP" to prevent them from voting. "It appears to be a huge scam. Its implications on democracy are grave. Elections in Delhi would be a farce if conducted through these voters lists," he wrote. Kejriwal demanded a time-bound and transparent enquiry by the Election Commission and also adding back of the deleted names. Recently, AAP in-charge for the South Delhi Lok Sabha seat, Raghav Chadha had alleged that around one lakh names were deleted from voters' list in the constituency in the past six months to one year. Kejriwal said that an enquiry conducted by him revealed that in nine cases, names were deleted in July 2018, after a door-to-door survey by booth-level officer(BLO) who could not locate addresses of the voters. After the enquiry, the officers got Form 6 filled for enrolling five of the persons in the voters list and assured that remaining persons will also be included in the list. "If the BLO could not locate the houses during the door-to-door survey in July 2018, how could he locate houses so easily after enquiry was ordered?," he questioned. The Delhi Chief Minister also said it was noticed that most names were deleted after the previous Assembly elections in Delhi.

Names of lakhs of voters struck off electoral rolls at 'behest of BJP': Kejriwal to CEC

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.&nbsp;

Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections.

He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process.

What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said.

It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added.

Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism.

He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said.

A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding.&nbsp;

Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field.

The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences.&nbsp;

In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced.&nbsp;

He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise.

Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, S Y Quraishi Wednesday said elections in India will become meaningful only if all sections of the society enjoy complete freedom to exercise their right to franchise. Speaking at the annual Sir Syed Day celebrations, Quraishi said India was a land of minorities and the hallmark of the world's largest democracy was to hold "inclusive" elections. He said that the largest minority in the country were women as they constitute 49 per cent of the electorate and if they were unable to exercise their right to franchise, either because of fear or any law and order issue, it would question the very foundation of the country's democratic process. What makes India's elections a very special feature in the world's democratic system, is that there is no country in the world which has such a large diversity of religion, caste and language, he said. It is therefore imperative that this wide canvas of diversity is preserved and protected through our democratic institutions, he added. Referring to the role of the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Quraishi said that he was amongst the pioneering figures in nineteenth century India who championed the cause not just of modern education but the critical importance of reconciliation and pluralism. He was a leading votary of interfaith understanding and communication, he said. A special feature of this year's annual celebrations was the bestowing of Sir Syed Excellence Award upon Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, which is India's largest social movement for promoting the cause of Urdu and cross-cultural understanding. Saraf was given a citation and a prize of Rs one lakh for his ongoing efforts in the field. The second award in the sphere of studies on the contribution of Sir Syed was given to Christian W. Troll for his writings on the AMU founder. Troll is at present the adviser to the Pope. Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Tariq Mansoor said that the university was making a rapid stride in the field of technology and emerging sciences. In this connection, several new programmes including M. Voc., M. Arch., MDS (Pedodontics) have been introduced while intake capacity in several courses has been enhanced. He said that the AMU was ready to play a leading role in the task of nation building and promoting a culture of pluralism and interfaith understanding.

Elections will be meaningful only if all sections of society participate: Former CEC

Voting opened Saturday in a by-election that is expected to see charismatic Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim win a parliamentary seat and return to active politics as he prepare for his eventual takeover from Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Anwar was designated the successor to Mahathir, his former foe turned ally, after they set aside a bitter political feud and joined hands to win a stunning victory in May's general elections. Anwar couldn't participate in the polls due to a 2015 conviction for sodomy a charge he alleged was politically motivated but he was freed after receiving a royal pardon days after the polls.

Thousands of voters flocked to polling stations in the southern coastal town of Port Dickson, where Anwar is vying for a seat along with six other candidates. He is expected to easily win.

Two weeks of campaigning has seen bigwigs rallying for Anwar, including Mahathir and several ministers.

The Election Commission said it expects a 70 per cent turnout from more than 75,000 voters in Port Dickson, a popular holiday retreat, and will announce results Saturday night.

Anwar was once a high-flying member of the former ruling coalition but was convicted of homosexual sodomy and corruption after a power struggle in 1998 with Mahathir, who was prime minister for 22 years until 2003.&nbsp;

Anwar was freed in 2004 and in 2015 was convicted again of sodomy charges he said were concocted to destroy his political career.

Angered by a monumental graft scandal at a state investment fund, Mahathir made a political comeback and the two forged a new opposition alliance in a gamble that paid off.

Mahathir, who is the world's oldest leader at 93, has said he expects to be in office for at least two years and will keep his promise to hand over power to Anwar.

Mahathir rooted for his successor at a rally Monday night in Port Dickson, urging voters to support their alliance to fix Malaysia's fiscal woes due to corruption by the previous government. It was the first time that the two men shared the same political stage together in 20 years.

Anwar, in speeches ending his campaign Friday, promised he won't interfere in Mahathir's governance and will focus on parliamentary reforms.

"There will be lots of attention to (his margin of victory) but that is making a story about something that is not really important. The bottom line is that he will win and attention should focus on what he will do in parliament and his relationship with those in government," said Bridget Welsh, political science lecturer at the John Cabot University in Rome.

Voting opened Saturday in a by-election that is expected to see charismatic Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim win a parliamentary seat and return to active politics as he prepare for his eventual takeover from Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Voting opened Saturday in a by-election that is expected to see charismatic Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim win a parliamentary seat and return to active politics as he prepare for his eventual takeover from Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Anwar was designated the successor to Mahathir, his former foe turned ally, after they set aside a bitter political feud and joined hands to win a stunning victory in May's general elections. Anwar couldn't participate in the polls due to a 2015 conviction for sodomy a charge he alleged was politically motivated but he was freed after receiving a royal pardon days after the polls. Thousands of voters flocked to polling stations in the southern coastal town of Port Dickson, where Anwar is vying for a seat along with six other candidates. He is expected to easily win. Two weeks of campaigning has seen bigwigs rallying for Anwar, including Mahathir and several ministers. The Election Commission said it expects a 70 per cent turnout from more than 75,000 voters in Port Dickson, a popular holiday retreat, and will announce results Saturday night. Anwar was once a high-flying member of the former ruling coalition but was convicted of homosexual sodomy and corruption after a power struggle in 1998 with Mahathir, who was prime minister for 22 years until 2003. Anwar was freed in 2004 and in 2015 was convicted again of sodomy charges he said were concocted to destroy his political career. Angered by a monumental graft scandal at a state investment fund, Mahathir made a political comeback and the two forged a new opposition alliance in a gamble that paid off. Mahathir, who is the world's oldest leader at 93, has said he expects to be in office for at least two years and will keep his promise to hand over power to Anwar. Mahathir rooted for his successor at a rally Monday night in Port Dickson, urging voters to support their alliance to fix Malaysia's fiscal woes due to corruption by the previous government. It was the first time that the two men shared the same political stage together in 20 years. Anwar, in speeches ending his campaign Friday, promised he won't interfere in Mahathir's governance and will focus on parliamentary reforms. "There will be lots of attention to (his margin of victory) but that is making a story about something that is not really important. The bottom line is that he will win and attention should focus on what he will do in parliament and his relationship with those in government," said Bridget Welsh, political science lecturer at the John Cabot University in Rome.

Voting opens in Malaysia by-election for PM-in-waiting Anwar Ibrahim

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today.&nbsp;

All four states are expected to go to the polls this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PTI quoted sources as saying the elections in the four states are expected to be wrapped up by December.&nbsp;

The sources added that while Chhattisgarh is expected to go to the polls over two phases, the other states will go to the polls in one single phase.&nbsp;

The commission has called a press conference for Saturday afternoon, at which it will make the announcements.

The commission may also announce the poll schedule for Telangana at the conference.

The Election Commission however <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-questions-independence-after-ec-reschedules-press-conference-ahead-of-modi-rally-169791">came under fire</a> on Tuesday after the Congress accused it of pushing back its press conference so as to not interfere with a rally to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan today.&nbsp;

The Congress's Randeep Singh Surjewala said the EC had called its press conference for 12.30 pm on Saturday. But that the commission pushed the conference back to 3 pm since a 12.30 announcement would have interfered with Modi's rally which is scheduled for 1 pm today.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 
 
1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 
 
2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 
 
3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. 
 
Independence of ECI?
— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) <a href="https://twitter.com/rssurjewala/status/1048445188165816320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;Parties are not allowed to make poll promises after election dates have been announced by the Election Commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am Prime Minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer's Pushkar. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> <a href="https://t.co/HqCf7oTLWg">pic.twitter.com/HqCf7oTLWg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1048490128270876672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I am prime minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present," Modi said later at his rally in Ajmer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today. All four states are expected to go to the polls this year.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today. All four states are expected to go to the polls this year. PTI quoted sources as saying the elections in the four states are expected to be wrapped up by December. The sources added that while Chhattisgarh is expected to go to the polls over two phases, the other states will go to the polls in one single phase. The commission has called a press conference for Saturday afternoon, at which it will make the announcements. The commission may also announce the poll schedule for Telangana at the conference. The Election Commission however came under fire on Tuesday after the Congress accused it of pushing back its press conference so as to not interfere with a rally to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan today. The Congress's Randeep Singh Surjewala said the EC had called its press conference for 12.30 pm on Saturday. But that the commission pushed the conference back to 3 pm since a 12.30 announcement would have interfered with Modi's rally which is scheduled for 1 pm today. 3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. Independence of ECI? — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 6, 2018 × Parties are not allowed to make poll promises after election dates have been announced by the Election Commission. I am Prime Minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer's Pushkar. #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/HqCf7oTLWg — ANI (@ANI) October 6, 2018 × "I am prime minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present," Modi said later at his rally in Ajmer. (With inputs from PTI)

Election dates for MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh & Mizoram to be announced today

Congress on Saturday questioned the independence of Election Commission of India (ECI) after it allegedly rescheduled a press conference to announce state elections.

In a tweet, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that &nbsp;ECI had announced a presser at 12.30 today to announce election dates to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ec-to-announce-poll-dates-for-mp-rajasthan-chhattisgarh-mizoram-today-169788">5 states</a>&nbsp;(the EC may announce the poll schedule for Telangana also today, along with those of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram). However, he said, the ECI suddenly changed the time of announcement and press conference to 3 pm as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer in Rajasthan at 1 pm.

Surjewala tweet asked the readers to draw their own conclusion regarding election commission's sudden change in the press conference schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 
 
1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 
 
2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 
 
3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. 
 
Independence of ECI?
— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) <a href="https://twitter.com/rssurjewala/status/1048445188165816320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

''3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. Independence of ECI?'' read his tweet.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Election commission was to announce poll dates at 12.30 pm; PM to address poll rally at 1 pm in Rajasthan. What happens next? EC postpones it’s PC to 3 pm! 😄
— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) <a href="https://twitter.com/sardesairajdeep/status/1048480330758279168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Congress on Saturday questioned the independence of Election Commission of India (ECI) after it allegedly rescheduled a press conference to announce state elections.

Congress on Saturday questioned the independence of Election Commission of India (ECI) after it allegedly rescheduled a press conference to announce state elections. In a tweet, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said that ECI had announced a presser at 12.30 today to announce election dates to the 5 states (the EC may announce the poll schedule for Telangana also today, along with those of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram). However, he said, the ECI suddenly changed the time of announcement and press conference to 3 pm as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer in Rajasthan at 1 pm. Surjewala tweet asked the readers to draw their own conclusion regarding election commission's sudden change in the press conference schedule. 3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. Independence of ECI? — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 6, 2018 × ''3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. Independence of ECI?'' read his tweet. Election commission was to announce poll dates at 12.30 pm; PM to address poll rally at 1 pm in Rajasthan. What happens next? EC postpones it’s PC to 3 pm! 😄 — Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 6, 2018 ×

Poll dates: Cong says Election Commission moved press conference because of Modi rally

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday stated that the constitutional arrangement can never be protected only by the judiciary and that the onus rests with the political leadership, civil society, religious leaders and the intelligentsia.

"No constitutional arrangement can be protected only by the judiciary. However vigilant the judges may be, ultimately it comes down to political leadership, civil society, religious leaders and intelligentsia to defend the constitution and its secular commitment," Singh stated.

"The judiciary needs to arrive at its own enlightened view of its custodianship of the constitution irrespective of the irresponsible and selfish politicians who may have no qualms in injecting the communal virus in our body politic," the former Prime Minister noted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
No constitutional arrangement can be protected only by judiciary. However vigilant the judges may be, ultimately it comes down to political leadership, civil society, religious leaders&amp;intelligentsia to defend constitution&amp;its secular commitment: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09) <a href="https://t.co/roXJQ53LY4">pic.twitter.com/roXJQ53LY4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044663806943621120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Singh also commented on the Indian Armed Forces saying that it enjoys a "glorious record of keeping away from politicians' manipulations and intrigues."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The judiciary needs to arrive at its own enlightened view of its custodianship of the constitution irrespective of the irresponsible and selfish politicians who may have no qualms in injecting communal virus in our body politic: Former PM Manmohan Singh in Delhi (25.09.2018) <a href="https://t.co/B8fwWSxokD">pic.twitter.com/B8fwWSxokD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044665260496445440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"As the custodian of the integrity of the electoral process, it is incumbent upon the Election Commission to see to it that religion, religious sentiments and prejudices do not get worked into the election discourse," Singh shared.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Our Armed Forces are a splendid embodiment of our secular project. Our Armed Forces have a glorious record of keeping away from politicians' manipulation&amp; intrigues. It's vitally important that they remain uncontaminated from any sectarian appeal: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09) <a href="https://t.co/gQqzvtvXwE">pic.twitter.com/gQqzvtvXwE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044666555798216704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ex-Prime Minister's comments came amid the government's plans to celebrate on September 29 the second anniversary of the surgical strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK). The Congress has been accusing the Modi government of politicising the armed forces for electoral gains.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
As the custodian of the integrity of the electoral process, it is incumbent upon the Election Commission to see to it that religion, religious sentiments and prejudices do not get worked into the election discourse: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09.2018) <a href="https://t.co/ZEFPLIuy7Y">pic.twitter.com/ZEFPLIuy7Y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044668584545284096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to rule on the disqualification issue stating that the Parliament must create a law to bar candidates with criminal background from contesting elections.&nbsp;

"Parliament must ensure that criminals must not come to politics," Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra noted while reading out the verdict on PIL seeking to disqualify candidates contesting polls. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday stated that the constitutional arrangement can never be protected only by the judiciary and that the onus rests with the political leadership, civil society, religious leaders and the intelligentsia.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday stated that the constitutional arrangement can never be protected only by the judiciary and that the onus rests with the political leadership, civil society, religious leaders and the intelligentsia. "No constitutional arrangement can be protected only by the judiciary. However vigilant the judges may be, ultimately it comes down to political leadership, civil society, religious leaders and intelligentsia to defend the constitution and its secular commitment," Singh stated. "The judiciary needs to arrive at its own enlightened view of its custodianship of the constitution irrespective of the irresponsible and selfish politicians who may have no qualms in injecting the communal virus in our body politic," the former Prime Minister noted. No constitutional arrangement can be protected only by judiciary. However vigilant the judges may be, ultimately it comes down to political leadership, civil society, religious leaders&intelligentsia to defend constitution&its secular commitment: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09) pic.twitter.com/roXJQ53LY4 — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Singh also commented on the Indian Armed Forces saying that it enjoys a "glorious record of keeping away from politicians' manipulations and intrigues." The judiciary needs to arrive at its own enlightened view of its custodianship of the constitution irrespective of the irresponsible and selfish politicians who may have no qualms in injecting communal virus in our body politic: Former PM Manmohan Singh in Delhi (25.09.2018) pic.twitter.com/B8fwWSxokD — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × "As the custodian of the integrity of the electoral process, it is incumbent upon the Election Commission to see to it that religion, religious sentiments and prejudices do not get worked into the election discourse," Singh shared. Our Armed Forces are a splendid embodiment of our secular project. Our Armed Forces have a glorious record of keeping away from politicians' manipulation& intrigues. It's vitally important that they remain uncontaminated from any sectarian appeal: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09) pic.twitter.com/gQqzvtvXwE — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Ex-Prime Minister's comments came amid the government's plans to celebrate on September 29 the second anniversary of the surgical strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK). The Congress has been accusing the Modi government of politicising the armed forces for electoral gains. As the custodian of the integrity of the electoral process, it is incumbent upon the Election Commission to see to it that religion, religious sentiments and prejudices do not get worked into the election discourse: Former PM Manmohan Singh (25.09.2018) pic.twitter.com/ZEFPLIuy7Y — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to rule on the disqualification issue stating that the Parliament must create a law to bar candidates with criminal background from contesting elections. "Parliament must ensure that criminals must not come to politics," Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra noted while reading out the verdict on PIL seeking to disqualify candidates contesting polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Religious sentiments, prejudices should not get worked into election discourse: Manmohan Singh 

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

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

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

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

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

The poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations

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

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

Ahead of the July 25 elections, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday started accepting the nomination papers after the Supreme Court announced its verdict rejecting amendments in the forms.

The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship.

It further ordered the election body to add requirements under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution to the nomination papers.

The ECP will continue to receive the nomination papers, in compliance with the approved format as per Election Act 2017, from June 4 till June 8.

The nominations papers will be scrutinised on June 14 while any appeals against the decision regarding nomination process must be filed till June 19.

On June 27, first candidates' list would be displayed and the candidates would get a day's time to withdraw their nominations.

The final list of candidates along with election symbols would be issued on June 29.&nbsp;

The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship

Ahead of the July 25 elections, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday started accepting the nomination papers after the Supreme Court announced its verdict rejecting amendments in the forms. The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship. It further ordered the election body to add requirements under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution to the nomination papers. The ECP will continue to receive the nomination papers, in compliance with the approved format as per Election Act 2017, from June 4 till June 8. The nominations papers will be scrutinised on June 14 while any appeals against the decision regarding nomination process must be filed till June 19. On June 27, first candidates' list would be displayed and the candidates would get a day's time to withdraw their nominations. The final list of candidates along with election symbols would be issued on June 29.

Pakistan Election Commission starts accepting nomination papers

The Congress party on Sunday submitted evidence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the alleged irregularities in the voter roll in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress chief for Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence for approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list.

"We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. This is not administrative negligence, but administrative misuse," Kamal Nath.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) behind it and said, "This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but the number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinized list in all constituencies, one voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too."

Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections.

In April, State`s chief electoral officer Salina Singh said that six lakh names were removed from Madhya Pradesh voter list.

Talking to ANI, Singh said that the commission is getting the update from the district collectors and the list is being updated. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls this year.

Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections

The Congress party on Sunday submitted evidence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the alleged irregularities in the voter roll in Madhya Pradesh. Congress chief for Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence for approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. "We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. This is not administrative negligence, but administrative misuse," Kamal Nath. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) behind it and said, "This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but the number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinized list in all constituencies, one voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too." Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections. In April, State`s chief electoral officer Salina Singh said that six lakh names were removed from Madhya Pradesh voter list. Talking to ANI, Singh said that the commission is getting the update from the district collectors and the list is being updated. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls this year.

MP election: Congress submits 'evidence' of 60 lakh fake voters to EC

Shiv Sena's demand to not to announce the results of Palghar bypoll&nbsp;has been rejected by Election Commission, according to news agency ANI. The winning certificate has been given to the BJP candidate, Rajendra Gavit by Palghar collector, the report added.&nbsp;

After they lost the&nbsp;Palghar bypoll&nbsp;to BJP,&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray of&nbsp;Shiv Sena demanded&nbsp;recounting of votes and alleged discrepancy in the voting pattern.

Addressing a press conference, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that said that there were some discrepancies in counting and appealed to the Election Commission to announce the results after those discrepancies are sorted out.&nbsp;

As the results of Palghar bypoll was in favour of BJP, Thackeray said if needed they will go to court.

''If needed, we will go to court. But, whatever I have said about our democracy, election process and the threat to it, was very serious,'' he added.&nbsp;

He also alleged corruption in election commission and said that EC should not be appointed but elected.

''Seeing the corruption in Election Commission, I would suggest that even election commissioners should not be appointed, but elected,'' Thackeray said.&nbsp;

He also attacked Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and said he is losing in his own state and he is coming to campaign here (Maharashtra).&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As the results of Palghar bypoll was in favour of BJP, Thackeray said if needed they will go to court

Shiv Sena's demand to not to announce the results of Palghar bypoll has been rejected by Election Commission, according to news agency ANI. The winning certificate has been given to the BJP candidate, Rajendra Gavit by Palghar collector, the report added. After they lost the Palghar bypoll to BJP, Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena demanded recounting of votes and alleged discrepancy in the voting pattern. Addressing a press conference, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that said that there were some discrepancies in counting and appealed to the Election Commission to announce the results after those discrepancies are sorted out. As the results of Palghar bypoll was in favour of BJP, Thackeray said if needed they will go to court. ''If needed, we will go to court. But, whatever I have said about our democracy, election process and the threat to it, was very serious,'' he added. He also alleged corruption in election commission and said that EC should not be appointed but elected. ''Seeing the corruption in Election Commission, I would suggest that even election commissioners should not be appointed, but elected,'' Thackeray said. He also attacked Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and said he is losing in his own state and he is coming to campaign here (Maharashtra).

Palghar bypolls: Shiv Sena's demand for recount rejected, winning certificate issued to BJP candidate

Opposition parties and the ruling BJP on Monday moved the Election Commission claiming "hundreds" of EVMs and paper trail machines deployed for Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls developed snags and were not replaced for hours.

But the Election Commission termed as "exaggerated projection of reality" reports of 'large scale' failure of EVMs during Lok Sabha and assembly bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and said adequate number of reserve machines are provided for any eventuality.

Sources in the poll panel did say that shoddy handling of VVPAT machines by the ground staff, especially when the temperature is high, led to their heating, resulting in their malfunctioning.

SP leader Ramgopal Yadav and RLD chief Ajit Singh along with others met top EC officials claiming that the faulty EVMs were not replaced on time.

The leaders demanded that repoll should be announced in polling stations where EVMs were not replaced for over one-and-a-half hours. At polling stations where EVMs were replaced within one-and-a-half hours, additional time should be granted to voters to exercise their franchise, they told reporters after meeting the EC.

They alleged that poll officials "took their own time" in replacing EVMs in rural areas, the base of their voters. The EVMs were, however, replaced with alacrity in urban areas.

A BJP delegation, including general secretaries Bhupender Yadav and Arun Singh besides its media head Anil Baluni, informed the Election Commission that EVM machines were dysfunctional for a long period in 197 booths in Kairana and Noorpur.

Yadav told reporters that they urged the EC to hold repolling in booths were election process was severely affected.

They asked the EC to send observers to identify such booths and also find out reasons for EVM malfunction.

Concerns were also raised about the functioning of paper trail (VVPAT) machines. Sources in the EC noted that failure on part of the ground staff led to heating of the machines.

An official said those who skipped training programmes and "spent time on their phones during training sessions" placed the machines at places where 'heat sensitive' nature of the device created problems.

A poll panel spokesperson later said a joint delegation of the RLD, SP and Congress and a separate delegation of BJP representatives met the EC and brought to its notice concerns about functioning of VVPAT machines in some of the polling booths in bypolls today.

"The Commission assured them that all necessary action will be taken on issues raised. They were also assured that the concerns related to VVPAT have been verified on ground and appropriate actions have been taken by the District Election teams. The Commission has also informed that on the basis of reports of RO, DEO and Observers, further action will be taken."

The EC said voters who have queued up outside polling stations will be allowed to cast votes despite end of polling hours.

But in a statement, poll panel denied that the failure of the voting machines was unusual.

"... the Commission allocates sufficient reserve of EVMs and VVPATs for every general and by election to the Lok Sabha or state assembly.

"It is pertinent to mention that during commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, apart from EVMs and VVPATs required for deployment at every polling station, adequate number of reserve EVMs and VVPATs (around 20-25 per cent) are prepared to replace any defective machine on poll day at the polling station," it said.

It said the reserve EVMs/VVPATs are kept with sector officers, who replace the defective EVMs/VVPATs. Since each sector officer is entrusted with only 10-12 polling stations, the time taken to replace any EVM/VVPAT is normally less than 30 minutes.

"The replacement of defective EVMs/VVPATs during actual polls is a normal process and does not vitiate the integrity or credibility of the poll process in any way whatsoever," the statement read.

The poll panel also rejected reports that polling was cancelled in 35 booths in Bhandara-Gondiya LS constituency in Maharashtra.&nbsp

"Also, the reports emerging in some quarters about EVMs/VVPATs failing in 25 per cent polling booths in the same constituency are also incorrect. It is clarified that voting has not been cancelled in any polling station in Bhandara-Gondiya constituency and voting is continuing smoothly after necessary replacements," it said.

As and when a report from poll officials regarding long interruption of polling is received, the Commission takes a decision on those matters on case to case basis, it said.

"The Commission undertakes a comprehensive examination and root-cause analysis of all defects observed in the machines through the Technical Experts Committee of the Commission and necessary remedial actions are being taken for smooth conduct of poll process," the statement added.&nbsp

Parties said that EVMs and paper trail machines in UP developed snags and were not replaced for hours.

Opposition parties and the ruling BJP on Monday moved the Election Commission claiming "hundreds" of EVMs and paper trail machines deployed for Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls developed snags and were not replaced for hours. But the Election Commission termed as "exaggerated projection of reality" reports of 'large scale' failure of EVMs during Lok Sabha and assembly bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and said adequate number of reserve machines are provided for any eventuality. Sources in the poll panel did say that shoddy handling of VVPAT machines by the ground staff, especially when the temperature is high, led to their heating, resulting in their malfunctioning. SP leader Ramgopal Yadav and RLD chief Ajit Singh along with others met top EC officials claiming that the faulty EVMs were not replaced on time. The leaders demanded that repoll should be announced in polling stations where EVMs were not replaced for over one-and-a-half hours. At polling stations where EVMs were replaced within one-and-a-half hours, additional time should be granted to voters to exercise their franchise, they told reporters after meeting the EC. They alleged that poll officials "took their own time" in replacing EVMs in rural areas, the base of their voters. The EVMs were, however, replaced with alacrity in urban areas. A BJP delegation, including general secretaries Bhupender Yadav and Arun Singh besides its media head Anil Baluni, informed the Election Commission that EVM machines were dysfunctional for a long period in 197 booths in Kairana and Noorpur. Yadav told reporters that they urged the EC to hold repolling in booths were election process was severely affected. They asked the EC to send observers to identify such booths and also find out reasons for EVM malfunction. Concerns were also raised about the functioning of paper trail (VVPAT) machines. Sources in the EC noted that failure on part of the ground staff led to heating of the machines. An official said those who skipped training programmes and "spent time on their phones during training sessions" placed the machines at places where 'heat sensitive' nature of the device created problems. A poll panel spokesperson later said a joint delegation of the RLD, SP and Congress and a separate delegation of BJP representatives met the EC and brought to its notice concerns about functioning of VVPAT machines in some of the polling booths in bypolls today. "The Commission assured them that all necessary action will be taken on issues raised. They were also assured that the concerns related to VVPAT have been verified on ground and appropriate actions have been taken by the District Election teams. The Commission has also informed that on the basis of reports of RO, DEO and Observers, further action will be taken." The EC said voters who have queued up outside polling stations will be allowed to cast votes despite end of polling hours. But in a statement, poll panel denied that the failure of the voting machines was unusual. "... the Commission allocates sufficient reserve of EVMs and VVPATs for every general and by election to the Lok Sabha or state assembly. "It is pertinent to mention that during commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, apart from EVMs and VVPATs required for deployment at every polling station, adequate number of reserve EVMs and VVPATs (around 20-25 per cent) are prepared to replace any defective machine on poll day at the polling station," it said. It said the reserve EVMs/VVPATs are kept with sector officers, who replace the defective EVMs/VVPATs. Since each sector officer is entrusted with only 10-12 polling stations, the time taken to replace any EVM/VVPAT is normally less than 30 minutes. "The replacement of defective EVMs/VVPATs during actual polls is a normal process and does not vitiate the integrity or credibility of the poll process in any way whatsoever," the statement read. The poll panel also rejected reports that polling was cancelled in 35 booths in Bhandara-Gondiya LS constituency in Maharashtra. "Also, the reports emerging in some quarters about EVMs/VVPATs failing in 25 per cent polling booths in the same constituency are also incorrect. It is clarified that voting has not been cancelled in any polling station in Bhandara-Gondiya constituency and voting is continuing smoothly after necessary replacements," it said. As and when a report from poll officials regarding long interruption of polling is received, the Commission takes a decision on those matters on case to case basis, it said. "The Commission undertakes a comprehensive examination and root-cause analysis of all defects observed in the machines through the Technical Experts Committee of the Commission and necessary remedial actions are being taken for smooth conduct of poll process," the statement added.

Parties say EVMs, VVPATs malfunctioned; EC says reports exaggerated

Ahead of the Maharashtra by-polls to be held in the Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats on Monday the BJP and its alliance partner in the state and at the Centre Shiv Sena have accused each other of bribing voters.

The Shiv Sena has written to the Election Commission accusing the BJP of trying to influence voters of the Palghar constituency by bribing them.

While the BJP has also claimed that the Shiv Sena employed people to distribute money to voters in the Palghar constituency.

BJP leader Ravindra Chavan said, "The BJP is going to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission that the Sena has brought 1,000 people from (neighbouring) Thane, Mumbai and Kalyan who are staying illegally in Palghar even after the campaigning is over, and they are distributing money (to voters)".

He also added that the people who were found distributing money also included criminals.&nbsp;

The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district

Ahead of the Maharashtra by-polls to be held in the Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats on Monday the BJP and its alliance partner in the state and at the Centre Shiv Sena have accused each other of bribing voters. The Shiv Sena has written to the Election Commission accusing the BJP of trying to influence voters of the Palghar constituency by bribing them. While the BJP has also claimed that the Shiv Sena employed people to distribute money to voters in the Palghar constituency. BJP leader Ravindra Chavan said, "The BJP is going to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission that the Sena has brought 1,000 people from (neighbouring) Thane, Mumbai and Kalyan who are staying illegally in Palghar even after the campaigning is over, and they are distributing money (to voters)". He also added that the people who were found distributing money also included criminals. The Election authorities have already registered cases against representatives of the two parties for alleged violation of poll code during campaign rallies of Yogi Adityanath, Smriti Irani and Uddhav Thackeray in Palghar district. (With inputs from PTI)

Ahead of Maharashtra by-polls, Shiv Sena, BJP accuse each other of bribing voters

Days after voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines were found from a house in Vijaypur district of Karnataka, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state chief BS Yeddyurappa has written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) alleging "grave irregularities" in the recently concluded Karnataka assembly elections.

In the letter, Yeddyurappa wrote, "I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned in a shed near Managuli village in Vijayapur district. It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka."

Yeddyurappa also stated that prior to the Karnataka polls, the BJP had raised the same concern about the reoccurring issue but the officials paid no heed.

"This is not the first time that irregularities in the conduct of elections were brought to the notice of Election Commission and officials holding elections at ground level. Prior to polling, we brought many such irregularities to notice of concerned officials, but in vain," added Yeddyurappa.

On Friday, eight VVPAT's without batteries were seized from a labourer's house in Vijaypura, a week after elections were conducted in the state.

Yeddyurappa, who was sworn in as Chief Minister on April 17, stepped down two days later before the floor test as he did not have the numbers.

'I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned... It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka,' Yeddyurappa wrote in his letter

Days after voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines were found from a house in Vijaypur district of Karnataka, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state chief BS Yeddyurappa has written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) alleging "grave irregularities" in the recently concluded Karnataka assembly elections. In the letter, Yeddyurappa wrote, "I am of a firm belief that Election Commission has taken a serious note of VVPAT machines found abandoned in a shed near Managuli village in Vijayapur district. It indicates grave irregularities in the conduct of assembly polls in Karnataka." Yeddyurappa also stated that prior to the Karnataka polls, the BJP had raised the same concern about the reoccurring issue but the officials paid no heed. "This is not the first time that irregularities in the conduct of elections were brought to the notice of Election Commission and officials holding elections at ground level. Prior to polling, we brought many such irregularities to notice of concerned officials, but in vain," added Yeddyurappa. On Friday, eight VVPAT's without batteries were seized from a labourer's house in Vijaypura, a week after elections were conducted in the state. Yeddyurappa, who was sworn in as Chief Minister on April 17, stepped down two days later before the floor test as he did not have the numbers.

Yeddyurappa alleges 'grave irregularities' in Karnataka polls, writes to CEC

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday recommended that the 2018 general elections be held between July 25 and July 27.

The commission outlined details of the proposed poll dates in a summary forwarded to President Mamnoon Hussain.

The ECP requested the president to settle on a date between July 25 and July 27 under Section 57(1) of the Elections Action Act 2017.

As the current government is expected to conclude its five-year term on May 31, a caretaker government will take over for the general elections.

On account of completion of the term of assemblies, as per law, the elections are to be held within 60 days, whereas otherwise, this exercise has to be held within 90 days.

The ECP proposes possible date(s) to the president, who finally decides on which the elections are to be conducted.

Election Commission of Pakistan says it has finalised security plan for 2018 elections.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday recommended that the 2018 general elections be held between July 25 and July 27. The commission outlined details of the proposed poll dates in a summary forwarded to President Mamnoon Hussain. The ECP requested the president to settle on a date between July 25 and July 27 under Section 57(1) of the Elections Action Act 2017. As the current government is expected to conclude its five-year term on May 31, a caretaker government will take over for the general elections. On account of completion of the term of assemblies, as per law, the elections are to be held within 60 days, whereas otherwise, this exercise has to be held within 90 days. The ECP proposes possible date(s) to the president, who finally decides on which the elections are to be conducted.

Pakistan elections likely to be held July 25-27

Polling for the high-stakes Karnataka assembly elections got underway this morning under a thick security blanket.

In what is projected as a tight race, voting is being held in 222 out of 224 seats in a three-cornered contest among the ruling Congress, the BJP and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda's JD(S).

The Election Commission yesterday deferred the polls for the Rajarajeswari Nagar constituency to May 28 after a massive row erupted over a large number of voter ID cards being found in an apartment.

The election for the Jayanagara seat in Bengaluru was countermanded following the death of BJP candidate and sitting MLA B N Vijaykumar.

Over 2,600 candidates are in the fray-- more than 2400 men and over 200 women.

The total voters including service electors according to the 2018 final rolls are 5,06,90,538, of whom 2,56,75,579 male voters, 2,50,09,904 female and 5,055 transgender voters.

Officials said 58,008 polling stations have been set up across the state, of which 12002 have been designated as "critical", with over 3,50,000 polling personnel on duty.

Police have made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of polls that will go on until 6 pm. Counting of votes will take place on May 15.

"82,157 people have been deployed for poll duty that includes DSPs, home guards and civil defence, and forest guards and watchers,? Karnataka DGP Neelamani N Raju said.

This also includes about 7,500 personnel from states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtram Chattisgarh, Kerala and Goa, she said, adding, central forces have been deployed.

The current polls are seen as one of the most complex the state had ever witnessed with many imponderables that have left most analysts to bet on a fractured mandate in a cliffhanger.

One among the interesting aspects of this election is four candidates who have served as chief minister of Karnataka are in the fray -- current incumbent Siddaramaiah (Chamundeshwari and Badami), B S Yeddyurappa (Shikaripura), H D

Kumaraswamy (Chennapatna and Ramanagara) and Jagadish Shettar (Hubli-Dharwad Central.)

State electoral authorities have also taken certain new initiatives such as SMS-based polling station access, app-based polling station access and navigation and queue status facility for a few polling stations with higher voter population.

Some special polling stations with ethnic look in primitive tribal areas have been established on a pilot basis. For the first time in Karnataka, one all women-managed polling station (Sakhi) has been set up in all rural assembly constituencies and five in each urban constituency (totalling 600 polling stations).&nbsp;

The total voters including service electors according to the 2018 final rolls are 5,06,90,538, of whom 2,56,75,579 male voters, 2,50,09,904 female and 5,055 transgender voters.

Polling for the high-stakes Karnataka assembly elections got underway this morning under a thick security blanket. In what is projected as a tight race, voting is being held in 222 out of 224 seats in a three-cornered contest among the ruling Congress, the BJP and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda's JD(S). The Election Commission yesterday deferred the polls for the Rajarajeswari Nagar constituency to May 28 after a massive row erupted over a large number of voter ID cards being found in an apartment. The election for the Jayanagara seat in Bengaluru was countermanded following the death of BJP candidate and sitting MLA B N Vijaykumar. Over 2,600 candidates are in the fray-- more than 2400 men and over 200 women. The total voters including service electors according to the 2018 final rolls are 5,06,90,538, of whom 2,56,75,579 male voters, 2,50,09,904 female and 5,055 transgender voters. Officials said 58,008 polling stations have been set up across the state, of which 12002 have been designated as "critical", with over 3,50,000 polling personnel on duty. Police have made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of polls that will go on until 6 pm. Counting of votes will take place on May 15. "82,157 people have been deployed for poll duty that includes DSPs, home guards and civil defence, and forest guards and watchers,? Karnataka DGP Neelamani N Raju said. This also includes about 7,500 personnel from states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtram Chattisgarh, Kerala and Goa, she said, adding, central forces have been deployed. The current polls are seen as one of the most complex the state had ever witnessed with many imponderables that have left most analysts to bet on a fractured mandate in a cliffhanger. One among the interesting aspects of this election is four candidates who have served as chief minister of Karnataka are in the fray -- current incumbent Siddaramaiah (Chamundeshwari and Badami), B S Yeddyurappa (Shikaripura), H D Kumaraswamy (Chennapatna and Ramanagara) and Jagadish Shettar (Hubli-Dharwad Central.) State electoral authorities have also taken certain new initiatives such as SMS-based polling station access, app-based polling station access and navigation and queue status facility for a few polling stations with higher voter population. Some special polling stations with ethnic look in primitive tribal areas have been established on a pilot basis. For the first time in Karnataka, one all women-managed polling station (Sakhi) has been set up in all rural assembly constituencies and five in each urban constituency (totalling 600 polling stations).

Karnataka assembly elections: Voting begins amid thick security blanket

Campaigning in Karnataka has come to an end, with high-intensity rallies being carried out by both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to woo voters in their favour in both rural and urban areas.

According to Election Commission data, Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies.

While nearly half of the urban constituencies are in Bengaluru city (28), the rest are spread across seven city corporations - 43 city municipal councils (CMCs), 65 town municipal councils (TMCs) and 92 town panchayats (TPs).

Drawing from the experience of the Gujarat assembly elections in December last year, it was observed then that the BJP held strong ground in urban Gujarat, while the Congress had the rural voter segment in its grip.

Assembly polls in Karnataka take place tomorrow, and it will be worth a watch to see whether the BJP can work its magic in rural and urban areas, or will they concede defeat to the grand old party for the second time.

While the election results in Gujarat depicted a clear urban-rural divide, a similar situation is hard to ascertain in Karnataka, based on the results of the past two elections.

A cursory glance at the 2008 and 2013 elections in Karnataka shows that results could go either way, thereby eliminating the possibility of a clear-cut pattern in voting.

Taking Bengaluru into account, which has the most urban constituencies, the BJP, in 2008, won in 17 out of 28 seats, while the Congress won nearly 60 percent of the rural seats in the state.

Tables, however, turned in 2013, with the Congress winning 13 seats, one more than the BJP.

It must also be noted that in 2008, campaigning largely focused on the rural population, while in 2013, the urban voter dominated the decision-making process.

While the rural population is looking forward to increased availability of electricity, clean drinking water, education and job opportunities, the urban voter is more concerned about commuting through the harrowing, traffic congested streets of India`s IT hub.

Opinion polls conducted across the state have shown that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah`s campaign is leaning towards the rural population, be it his emphasis on promoting Kannada or the importance of preserving the state`s culture and heritage.

While these may garner votes in the Congress` favour, the alarming rate of farmer suicides in this stratum could swing votes in either direction.

The BJP too has been capitalising on the opportunity to hold the Siddaramaiah government responsible for the plight of farmers and the lack of basic amenities, which may open doors for the former to woo rural voters.

Opinion polls have also stated that the BJP may secure a higher share of votes in urban Karnataka, as many feel that issues related to Bengaluru have not been tackled during the Congress reign, be it infrastructural congestion, growing traffic, pollution of lakes, inefficient management of garbage, delays in the Metro rail construction, all of which have contributed to a disruptive existence.

Although campaigning has been extensively rural-centric, the urban voters, along with the final stance of the Janata Dal (Secular) would be game-changers.

Karnataka will elect representatives to 224-seat assembly on May 15. A total of 2,655 candidates are in the fray and 4.96 lakh people, including 2.52 crore men and 2.44 crore women, will take part in the election.

Over 15 lakh are first-time voters in the 18-19 years age group.

The population of Karnataka in 2018 as per estimated data is over 68 million. The literacy rate is 75.36 percent as per latest data.

About 84 percent of its people are Hindu, 13 percent Muslim, 1.9 percent Christian, 0.16 percent Buddhist and 0.05 percent Sikh.

Kannada is the official language of the state and is spoken by 66.26 percent of the population.

The population density of the state is 319 persons per square kilometre. The number of people living per square kilometer in the city has extended to 4,378 in the year 2011 from 2,985 in 2001.

The BJP has fielded 224 candidates, while Congress and JD (S) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively.

The election is considered significant for the incumbent Congress, who wants to retain power in the southern state ahead of the next year`s general elections, while the BJP is going the extra mile to dethrone the Siddaramaiah government and come back to power after a decade under the leadership of former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa.

The JD(S), too, is looking to establish itself once again in the state`s politics and is being perceived as a game changer in the state.

Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies.

Campaigning in Karnataka has come to an end, with high-intensity rallies being carried out by both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to woo voters in their favour in both rural and urban areas. According to Election Commission data, Karnataka consists of 70 urban and 154 rural assembly constituencies. While nearly half of the urban constituencies are in Bengaluru city (28), the rest are spread across seven city corporations - 43 city municipal councils (CMCs), 65 town municipal councils (TMCs) and 92 town panchayats (TPs). Drawing from the experience of the Gujarat assembly elections in December last year, it was observed then that the BJP held strong ground in urban Gujarat, while the Congress had the rural voter segment in its grip. Assembly polls in Karnataka take place tomorrow, and it will be worth a watch to see whether the BJP can work its magic in rural and urban areas, or will they concede defeat to the grand old party for the second time. While the election results in Gujarat depicted a clear urban-rural divide, a similar situation is hard to ascertain in Karnataka, based on the results of the past two elections. A cursory glance at the 2008 and 2013 elections in Karnataka shows that results could go either way, thereby eliminating the possibility of a clear-cut pattern in voting. Taking Bengaluru into account, which has the most urban constituencies, the BJP, in 2008, won in 17 out of 28 seats, while the Congress won nearly 60 percent of the rural seats in the state. Tables, however, turned in 2013, with the Congress winning 13 seats, one more than the BJP. It must also be noted that in 2008, campaigning largely focused on the rural population, while in 2013, the urban voter dominated the decision-making process. While the rural population is looking forward to increased availability of electricity, clean drinking water, education and job opportunities, the urban voter is more concerned about commuting through the harrowing, traffic congested streets of India`s IT hub. Opinion polls conducted across the state have shown that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah`s campaign is leaning towards the rural population, be it his emphasis on promoting Kannada or the importance of preserving the state`s culture and heritage. While these may garner votes in the Congress` favour, the alarming rate of farmer suicides in this stratum could swing votes in either direction. The BJP too has been capitalising on the opportunity to hold the Siddaramaiah government responsible for the plight of farmers and the lack of basic amenities, which may open doors for the former to woo rural voters. Opinion polls have also stated that the BJP may secure a higher share of votes in urban Karnataka, as many feel that issues related to Bengaluru have not been tackled during the Congress reign, be it infrastructural congestion, growing traffic, pollution of lakes, inefficient management of garbage, delays in the Metro rail construction, all of which have contributed to a disruptive existence. Although campaigning has been extensively rural-centric, the urban voters, along with the final stance of the Janata Dal (Secular) would be game-changers. Karnataka will elect representatives to 224-seat assembly on May 15. A total of 2,655 candidates are in the fray and 4.96 lakh people, including 2.52 crore men and 2.44 crore women, will take part in the election. Over 15 lakh are first-time voters in the 18-19 years age group. The population of Karnataka in 2018 as per estimated data is over 68 million. The literacy rate is 75.36 percent as per latest data. About 84 percent of its people are Hindu, 13 percent Muslim, 1.9 percent Christian, 0.16 percent Buddhist and 0.05 percent Sikh. Kannada is the official language of the state and is spoken by 66.26 percent of the population. The population density of the state is 319 persons per square kilometre. The number of people living per square kilometer in the city has extended to 4,378 in the year 2011 from 2,985 in 2001. The BJP has fielded 224 candidates, while Congress and JD (S) have fielded 222 and 201 seats respectively. The election is considered significant for the incumbent Congress, who wants to retain power in the southern state ahead of the next year`s general elections, while the BJP is going the extra mile to dethrone the Siddaramaiah government and come back to power after a decade under the leadership of former chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa. The JD(S), too, is looking to establish itself once again in the state`s politics and is being perceived as a game changer in the state.

Urban-rural divide key to Karnataka poll outcome