<p><strong>Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date:&nbsp;</strong>Puducherry is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory.&nbsp;It lies in the southern part of the Indian Peninsula.&nbsp;Here's everything you need to know about the Puducherry <a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Lok Sabha elections</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>When is Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>The Union Territory of Puducherry goes to election in the first phase of 2024 General Elections, scheduled for April 19, 2024. On this day, 102 Parliamentary Constituencies in 21 states are scheduled for polling.</p>

<p>Nominations in Puducherry started on 20 Mar 2024, and ended on 27 Mar 2024. The last day to withdraw from the polls was 30 March 2024.</p>

<p>Results of the elections will be announced on 4 June 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/india-news/chandigarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-704340">Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, Dates, phase, seats, candidates, all you need to know</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>How many phases Puducherry will have?</strong></h2>

<p>Puducherry elections will happen in one phase, i.e., the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 19, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>How many Lok Sabha constituencies Puducherry has?</strong></h2>

<p>There is just one constituency that covers the entire Union Territory of Puducherry.</p>

<h2><strong>Complete list of candidates for the Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates will contest the election. This means, a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list.</p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">Sr.No.&nbsp;</th>
			<th scope="col">Candidate Name</th>
			<th scope="col">Political Party</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">1</th>
			<td>Alangaravelu</td>
			<td>Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">2</th>
			<td>G. Thamizhvendan</td>
			<td>Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">3</th>
			<td>
			<p>A. Namassivayam</p>
			</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">4</th>
			<td>Ve. Vaithilingam</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">5</th>
			<td>
			<p>P. Sankaran</p>
			</td>
			<td>Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">6</th>
			<td>
			<p>K. Prabhudevan</p>
			</td>
			<td>Republican Party of India</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">7</th>
			<td>Dr. R. Menaga</td>
			<td>Naam Tamilar Katchi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">8</th>
			<td>M. Krishnamurthy</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">9</th>
			<td>Arunachalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">10</th>
			<td>Aradadi Posiyya</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">11</th>
			<td>E. Ananthavel</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">12</th>
			<td>R.Raja</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">13</th>
			<td>S. Kala</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">14</th>
			<td>K. Kishorkumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">15</th>
			<td>Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">16</th>
			<td>Kollanjiappan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">17</th>
			<td>S. Sathish Kumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">18</th>
			<td>Nirmala Gopi</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">19</th>
			<td>S.Bakthavatchalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">20</th>
			<td>M. Manikandan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">21</th>
			<td>V.P.Manickam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">22</th>
			<td>S.Masco</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">23</th>
			<td>Murugan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">24</th>
			<td>Ravindiran</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">25</th>
			<td>Ramadass</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">26</th>
			<td>P. Rajan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2><strong>Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2019 - A Recap</strong></h2>

<p>V. Vaithilingam, an Indian National Congress (INC) member, currently represents the Union Territory of Puducherry in Lok Sabha. In 2019, he won the election with 56.27 per cent (444,981) votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The constituency saw an 81.19 per cent voter turnout.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-all-you-need-to-know-703494">Haryana Lok Sabha elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Complete list of elected candidates in the Puducherry Lok Sabha elections, 2019</strong></h2>

<p>Indian National Congress's V. Vaithilingam won the polls in 2019 with a victory margin of 1,97,025 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Facts About Puducherry</strong></h2>

<p>Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is one of the Union Territories of India. It has four small, geographically unconnected districts. It became a Union Territory after the implementation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution of India in 1962.</p>

<p>The Pondicherry Assembly had passed a resolution in October 1980 requesting for the change in name. However, till 2006, Puducherry was formally called Pondicherry.&nbsp;</p>


Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date: Puducherry is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory.

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date: Puducherry is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory. It lies in the southern part of the Indian Peninsula. Here's everything you need to know about the Puducherry Lok Sabha elections. When is Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024? The Union Territory of Puducherry goes to election in the first phase of 2024 General Elections, scheduled for April 19, 2024. On this day, 102 Parliamentary Constituencies in 21 states are scheduled for polling. Nominations in Puducherry started on 20 Mar 2024, and ended on 27 Mar 2024. The last day to withdraw from the polls was 30 March 2024. Results of the elections will be announced on 4 June 2024. Also read | Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, Dates, phase, seats, candidates, all you need to know How many phases Puducherry will have? Puducherry elections will happen in one phase, i.e., the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 19, 2024. How many Lok Sabha constituencies Puducherry has? There is just one constituency that covers the entire Union Territory of Puducherry. Complete list of candidates for the Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates will contest the election. This means, a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list. Sr.No. Candidate Name Political Party 1 Alangaravelu Samaj Party 2 G. Thamizhvendan Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam 3 A. Namassivayam Bharatiya Janata Party 4 Ve. Vaithilingam Indian National Congress 5 P. Sankaran Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) 6 K. Prabhudevan Republican Party of India 7 Dr. R. Menaga Naam Tamilar Katchi 8 M. Krishnamurthy Independent 9 Arunachalam Independent 10 Aradadi Posiyya Independent 11 E. Ananthavel Independent 12 R.Raja Independent 13 S. Kala Independent 14 K. Kishorkumar Independent 15 Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe Independent 16 Kollanjiappan Independent 17 S. Sathish Kumar Independent 18 Nirmala Gopi Independent 19 S.Bakthavatchalam Independent 20 M. Manikandan Independent 21 V.P.Manickam Independent 22 S.Masco Independent 23 Murugan Independent 24 Ravindiran Independent 25 Ramadass Independent 26 P. Rajan Independent Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2019 - A Recap V. Vaithilingam, an Indian National Congress (INC) member, currently represents the Union Territory of Puducherry in Lok Sabha. In 2019, he won the election with 56.27 per cent (444,981) votes. The constituency saw an 81.19 per cent voter turnout. Also read | Haryana Lok Sabha elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates - All you need to know Complete list of elected candidates in the Puducherry Lok Sabha elections, 2019 Indian National Congress's V. Vaithilingam won the polls in 2019 with a victory margin of 1,97,025 votes. Facts About Puducherry Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is one of the Union Territories of India. It has four small, geographically unconnected districts. It became a Union Territory after the implementation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution of India in 1962. The Pondicherry Assembly had passed a resolution in October 1980 requesting for the change in name. However, till 2006, Puducherry was formally called Pondicherry.

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates and all you need to know

With only a few days left for the Indian general elections, political parties and candidates are making full use of social media. However, it looks like a few of them have landed in trouble because of this the country's Election Commission has issued directives through social media platform X (Formerly known as Twitter) to take down several election-related posts.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: X takes down political posts after orders from ECI

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday (Mar 21) asked the central government to stop sending the "Viksit Bharat" messages over WhatsApp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The message to the Indian Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology comes after the poll body received several complaints regarding the delivery of messages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns were raised over the message by the government&nbsp;being delivered on citizens' phones despite the announcement of the General Elections 2024 and the Model Code of Conduct entering into force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In response, MeitY had informed the commission that although the letters were sent out before MCC came into force, some of them could have possibly been delivered to recipients with a delay because of systemic and network limitations," the ECI said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A Compliance report on the matter has been demanded immediately from MeitY," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmirs-political-future-hinges-on-49pc-women-voters-in-upcoming-elections-702673">Jammu and Kashmir's political future hinges on 49pc women voters in upcoming elections</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What did the 'Viksit Bharat Sampark' message read?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The message delivered to users on their WhatsApp account read, "This letter has been sent by the Government of India under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last ten years, more than 140 crore citizens of India have directly benefited from the various schemes of the Government of India and will continue to benefit in the future," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Your feedback and suggestions are very important to fulfil the aspirations of a Viksit Bharat. Therefore, you are requested to kindly type and share your feedback and suggestions," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sbi-submits-all-electoral-bond-details-with-unique-numbers-to-election-commission-702653">Electoral bonds: SBI submits complete details with unique numbers to India's Election Commission</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;'Why only tax Temples?': Karnataka governor refuses to sign Temple Tax Bill&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In its bio, the sender, with the name 'Viksit Bharat Sampark', noted that it is an ongoing initiative of the Government of India for evaluation of the flagship schemes and improvement in their implementation and delivery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move is a series of decisions by the election commission which are aimed at ensuring a level playing field in the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday (Mar 21) asked the central government to stop sending the "Viksit Bharat" messages over WhatsApp. The message to the Indian Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology comes after the poll body received several complaints regarding the delivery of messages.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday (Mar 21) asked the central government to stop sending the "Viksit Bharat" messages over WhatsApp. The message to the Indian Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology comes after the poll body received several complaints regarding the delivery of messages. Concerns were raised over the message by the government being delivered on citizens' phones despite the announcement of the General Elections 2024 and the Model Code of Conduct entering into force. "In response, MeitY had informed the commission that although the letters were sent out before MCC came into force, some of them could have possibly been delivered to recipients with a delay because of systemic and network limitations," the ECI said. "A Compliance report on the matter has been demanded immediately from MeitY," it added. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir's political future hinges on 49pc women voters in upcoming elections What did the 'Viksit Bharat Sampark' message read? The message delivered to users on their WhatsApp account read, "This letter has been sent by the Government of India under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji." "In the last ten years, more than 140 crore citizens of India have directly benefited from the various schemes of the Government of India and will continue to benefit in the future," it said. "Your feedback and suggestions are very important to fulfil the aspirations of a Viksit Bharat. Therefore, you are requested to kindly type and share your feedback and suggestions," it further added. Also read: Electoral bonds: SBI submits complete details with unique numbers to India's Election Commission Watch: 'Why only tax Temples?': Karnataka governor refuses to sign Temple Tax Bill × In its bio, the sender, with the name 'Viksit Bharat Sampark', noted that it is an ongoing initiative of the Government of India for evaluation of the flagship schemes and improvement in their implementation and delivery. The move is a series of decisions by the election commission which are aimed at ensuring a level playing field in the Lok Sabha polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian poll body directs central government to halt 'Viksit Bharat' messages on WhatsApp

<p>The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 21) dismissed applications seeking a stay on the appointment of two new Election Commissioners, just days after the poll body announced dates for the Lok Sabha election this summer.</p>

<p>The top court asked the government to file a response within six weeks on the petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023.</p>

<p>A few days ago, the government had filled two vacancies in the Election Commission of India (ECI), which arose following the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey last month and the sudden resignation of Arun Goel.&nbsp;The government appointed former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.</p>

<p>“We are dismissing the applications for a stay on the appointment,” a bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta said.</p>

<p>Petitions in the top court had challenged the validity of the new law, Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Terms of Office) Act, 2023. One of their contentions is about the absence of Chief Justice of India in the selection panel for election commissioners.</p>

<p>“At this stage, we cannot stay the legislation or suspend its operation. It would lead to chaos and uncertainty and we cannot do it (stay) by way of an interim order. There are no allegations against the new election commissioners,” the bench told the petitioners, adding that it will examine the main petition.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-live-govt-launches-24x7-control-room-toll-free-helpline-for-polls-702503">Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Lok Sabha polls 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>The Supreme Court also questioned the central government for the speed with which the Search Committee shortlisted the candidates, and two Election Commissioners were selected.</p>

<blockquote>
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Supreme Court asks Centre to file a response within six weeks on the petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023. <a href="https://t.co/6jgrhQ1KeT">https://t.co/6jgrhQ1KeT</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1770700775376719909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<p>The top court pointed out that it was not questioning the credentials of the Election Commissioners selected, but on the procedure in which the selection was made.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;SC dismisses application seeking Electoral Bonds disclosure from before 2019</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-sc-dismisses-application-seeking-electoral-bonds-disclosure-from-before-2019-701461/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 21) dismissed applications seeking a stay on the appointment of two new Election Commissioners, just days after the poll body announced dates for the Lok Sabha election this summer.

The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday (Mar 21) dismissed applications seeking a stay on the appointment of two new Election Commissioners, just days after the poll body announced dates for the Lok Sabha election this summer. The top court asked the government to file a response within six weeks on the petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023. A few days ago, the government had filled two vacancies in the Election Commission of India (ECI), which arose following the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey last month and the sudden resignation of Arun Goel. The government appointed former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu. “We are dismissing the applications for a stay on the appointment,” a bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta said. Petitions in the top court had challenged the validity of the new law, Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Terms of Office) Act, 2023. One of their contentions is about the absence of Chief Justice of India in the selection panel for election commissioners. “At this stage, we cannot stay the legislation or suspend its operation. It would lead to chaos and uncertainty and we cannot do it (stay) by way of an interim order. There are no allegations against the new election commissioners,” the bench told the petitioners, adding that it will examine the main petition. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Lok Sabha polls 2024 The Supreme Court also questioned the central government for the speed with which the Search Committee shortlisted the candidates, and two Election Commissioners were selected. Supreme Court asks Centre to file a response within six weeks on the petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023. https://t.co/6jgrhQ1KeT — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2024 × The top court pointed out that it was not questioning the credentials of the Election Commissioners selected, but on the procedure in which the selection was made. Also watch | SC dismisses application seeking Electoral Bonds disclosure from before 2019 × (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Supreme Court dismisses pleas seeking stay on appointment of election commissioners

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (Mar 19) notified all those who can vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and four state assembly polls using postal ballots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The election commission noted that media persons covering "polling day activities" carrying authorisation letters from the Election Commission and all those involved in essential services such as metros, railways and health care, can vote using postal ballots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The election-conducting body shared its notification with all state chief electoral officers regarding the categories of "absentee voters on essential service".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-release-third-lok-sabha-candidate-list-meeting-held-by-sonia-gandhi-kharge-702046">Congress to release third Lok Sabha candidate list? Meeting held by Sonia Gandhi, Kharge</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The government body said that while postal ballots were used during assembly elections by journalists and individuals working in critical services, the opportunity has now been extended to Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The election commission said that "media persons to whom authorisation letters have been issued with the approval of the commission to cover polling day activities" are among the various categories identified for the use of postal ballots.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lok Sabha Elections: Election Commission of India (ECI) notifies the category of electors mentioned therein for the purposes of facility of voting through postal ballot as absentee voters on essential services; allows voting by postal ballot for authorised media persons on… <a href="https://t.co/Urjh2UV8kD">pic.twitter.com/Urjh2UV8kD</a></p>
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<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Former CM Sadananda Gowda may quit BJP, says 'BJP not a party with a difference'</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mla-sita-soren-sister-in-law-of-ex-jharkhand-cm-hemant-soren-joins-bjp-702049">MLA Sita Soren, sister-in-law of ex-Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, joins BJP</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>How to get the form?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The election body said that people can get Form 12D from the office of the district election officer for their parliamentary seat, where they are registered as voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They can also obtain the form from the website of the appropriate chief electoral officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (Mar 19) notified all those who can vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and four state assembly polls using postal ballots.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday (Mar 19) notified all those who can vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and four state assembly polls using postal ballots. The election commission noted that media persons covering "polling day activities" carrying authorisation letters from the Election Commission and all those involved in essential services such as metros, railways and health care, can vote using postal ballots. The election-conducting body shared its notification with all state chief electoral officers regarding the categories of "absentee voters on essential service". Also read: Congress to release third Lok Sabha candidate list? Meeting held by Sonia Gandhi, Kharge The government body said that while postal ballots were used during assembly elections by journalists and individuals working in critical services, the opportunity has now been extended to Lok Sabha elections. The election commission said that "media persons to whom authorisation letters have been issued with the approval of the commission to cover polling day activities" are among the various categories identified for the use of postal ballots. Lok Sabha Elections: Election Commission of India (ECI) notifies the category of electors mentioned therein for the purposes of facility of voting through postal ballot as absentee voters on essential services; allows voting by postal ballot for authorised media persons on… pic.twitter.com/Urjh2UV8kD — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2024 × Watch: Former CM Sadananda Gowda may quit BJP, says 'BJP not a party with a difference' × Also read: MLA Sita Soren, sister-in-law of ex-Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, joins BJP How to get the form? The election body said that people can get Form 12D from the office of the district election officer for their parliamentary seat, where they are registered as voters. They can also obtain the form from the website of the appropriate chief electoral officer. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election: Those in essential services, journalists can vote via postal ballots, says poll body

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Mar 18) removed home secretaries of six states, including Gujarat, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The poll body also ordered the transfer of West Bengal’s Director-General of Police (DGP) as the state has witnessed several instances of poll-related violence in recent years. Home secretaries of Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand were also transferred, along with senior officials from Mizoram state.</p>

<p>Also, Iqbal Singh Chahal, the Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation - the civic body that governs Mumbai - and Additional and Deputy Commissioners have been removed.</p>

<p>It is not uncommon for the ECI to remove top bureaucrats in Indian states before key elections.</p>

<h2><strong>The reason for the big move</strong></h2>

<p>The ECI gave no official reason for the transfer of top bureaucrats but it is understood that it is done to ensure a level playing field and to “maintain the integrity of the poll process”.</p>

<p>The officials who have been removed in these seven states were found to be holding dual charges in the office of Chief Minister in their respective states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi60qDv0P2EAxVazTgGHTN7BWMQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-live-soul-of-king-is-in-evm-cbi-and-ed-rahul-gandhi-says-in-massive-mumbai-rally-701282" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-live-soul-of-king-is-in-evm-cbi-and-ed-rahul-gandhi-says-in-massive-mumbai-rally-701282&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi60qDv0P2EAxVazTgGHTN7BWMQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE: PM Modi hits at Congress-led alliance for `fight against Shakti` remark</a></strong></p>

<p>This may potentially compromise or be seen to be compromising the impartiality and neutrality required during the electoral process, especially in matters relating to law and order, deployment of forces, etc.</p>

<h2><strong>ECI 'upset' with Maharashtra</strong></h2>

<p>News agency ANI reported that Maharashtra had not complied with the directions in respect of a few civic body chiefs and some additional and deputy municipal commissioners in Maharashtra. As a result, the commission itself had to direct the transfer of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal and the additional and deputy commissioners with the direction to report by 6 pm on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Party leaders emphasize on fair &amp; violence free elections</strong></p>

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<p>The ECI also conveyed its displeasure to the chief secretary over non-compliance.</p>

<p>The 18th Lok Sabha elections, involving 543 seats, will take place in seven phases starting from April 19, with the results scheduled to be announced on June 4, the CEC declared in the ECI press briefing on March 16.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Mar 18) removed home secretaries of six states, including Gujarat, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The poll body also ordered the transfer of West Bengal’s Director-General of Police (DGP) as the state has witnessed several instances of poll-related violence in recent years.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday (Mar 18) removed home secretaries of six states, including Gujarat, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The poll body also ordered the transfer of West Bengal’s Director-General of Police (DGP) as the state has witnessed several instances of poll-related violence in recent years. Home secretaries of Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand were also transferred, along with senior officials from Mizoram state. Also, Iqbal Singh Chahal, the Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation - the civic body that governs Mumbai - and Additional and Deputy Commissioners have been removed. It is not uncommon for the ECI to remove top bureaucrats in Indian states before key elections. The reason for the big move The ECI gave no official reason for the transfer of top bureaucrats but it is understood that it is done to ensure a level playing field and to “maintain the integrity of the poll process”. The officials who have been removed in these seven states were found to be holding dual charges in the office of Chief Minister in their respective states. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE: PM Modi hits at Congress-led alliance for `fight against Shakti` remark This may potentially compromise or be seen to be compromising the impartiality and neutrality required during the electoral process, especially in matters relating to law and order, deployment of forces, etc. ECI 'upset' with Maharashtra News agency ANI reported that Maharashtra had not complied with the directions in respect of a few civic body chiefs and some additional and deputy municipal commissioners in Maharashtra. As a result, the commission itself had to direct the transfer of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal and the additional and deputy commissioners with the direction to report by 6 pm on Monday. Watch: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Party leaders emphasize on fair & violence free elections × The ECI also conveyed its displeasure to the chief secretary over non-compliance. The 18th Lok Sabha elections, involving 543 seats, will take place in seven phases starting from April 19, with the results scheduled to be announced on June 4, the CEC declared in the ECI press briefing on March 16. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Election Commission removes Bengal DGP, top bureaucrats in 6 states. Here's why

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<p>The dates of the Lok Sabha elections in India were announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (Mar 16). The elections will be held in seven phases from April 19, and the counting of votes will be on June 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the run-up to the dates being announced, political parties already named their candidates for the elections. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India released two lists of candidates who will be contesting the elections. The main opposition party Congress also released two lists of candidates.</p>

<p>The ECI has been supervising all developments in the run-up to the elections and also when the elections happen and conclude. So what is the ECI, and what are its functions as India's poll body?</p>

<h3><strong>Here's a look:</strong></h3>

<h2><strong>History</strong></h2>

<p>The ECI was established under the Indian Constitution on January 25, 1950. Initially, the ECI only had a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), but it currently comprises the CEC and two election commissioners. A few days back, a panel led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu as the new election commissioners. Kumar and Sandhu took charge of the office on Friday.</p>

<p>According to ECI's website, for the very first time, two additional commissioners were appointed on October 16, 1989, but they only had a tenure till January 1, 1990. "Later, on October 1, 1993, two additional Election Commissioners were appointed. The concept of multi-member Commission has been in operation since then, with decision-making power by majority vote," the website states.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at the appointment of officials</strong></h2>

<p>The President of India appoints the CEC and the election commissioners. They have a tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They enjoy the same status and receive salary and perks as available to judges of the Supreme Court.</p>

<h2><strong>Functions of the ECI</strong></h2>

<p>The ECI is responsible for administering Union and State election processes in the country. The body administers elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies in India, and the offices of the President and Vice President.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It determines the budget setup for polling processes. The commission also issues symbols to political parties and recognises the parties for elections at any level- national, regional, or state.&nbsp;</p>


The dates of the Lok Sabha elections in India were announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (Mar 16). The elections will be held in seven phases from April 19, and the counting of votes will be on June 4.

The dates of the Lok Sabha elections in India were announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (Mar 16). The elections will be held in seven phases from April 19, and the counting of votes will be on June 4. In the run-up to the dates being announced, political parties already named their candidates for the elections. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India released two lists of candidates who will be contesting the elections. The main opposition party Congress also released two lists of candidates. The ECI has been supervising all developments in the run-up to the elections and also when the elections happen and conclude. So what is the ECI, and what are its functions as India's poll body? Here's a look: History The ECI was established under the Indian Constitution on January 25, 1950. Initially, the ECI only had a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), but it currently comprises the CEC and two election commissioners. A few days back, a panel led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu as the new election commissioners. Kumar and Sandhu took charge of the office on Friday. According to ECI's website, for the very first time, two additional commissioners were appointed on October 16, 1989, but they only had a tenure till January 1, 1990. "Later, on October 1, 1993, two additional Election Commissioners were appointed. The concept of multi-member Commission has been in operation since then, with decision-making power by majority vote," the website states. A look at the appointment of officials The President of India appoints the CEC and the election commissioners. They have a tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They enjoy the same status and receive salary and perks as available to judges of the Supreme Court. Functions of the ECI The ECI is responsible for administering Union and State election processes in the country. The body administers elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies in India, and the offices of the President and Vice President. It determines the budget setup for polling processes. The commission also issues symbols to political parties and recognises the parties for elections at any level- national, regional, or state.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: What is the Election Commission of India? Details about the poll body

<p>The Election Commission of India has revealed fresh data on the financial transactions of political parties through the now-quashed electoral bonds scheme. Reports suggest that the disclosed data encompassed crucial details such as the issuance dates, number of bonds, denominations, and the respective State Bank of India (SBI) branches involved in the transactions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, it also includes the dates of receipt and crediting into the respective parties' bank accounts. However, even the new data does not contain any information on the electoral bond numbers. The election commission had provided this latest disclosed information to the SC in sealed envelopes with the poll body not retaining any.</p>

<p>Also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-under-pm-modi-deploys-artificial-intelligence-to-break-language-barrier-701053">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP under PM Modi deploys Artificial Intelligence to break language barrier</a></p>

<p>Each electoral bond issued by the State Bank of India reportedly bears a distinctive alphanumeric code, visible only under certain lighting conditions. This code serves as a means to associate each donation with the corresponding political party that receives it, forming a link between the donors and recipients.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-cm-launches-scathing-attack-against-brs-and-bjp-over-kavithas-arrest-calls-it-serial-drama-700937">Telangana CM launches scathing attack against BRS and BJP over Kavitha's arrest, calls it 'serial drama</a></p>

<p>Earlier, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, leading a five-judge bench, questioned the SBI's reluctance to disclose the individual bond numbers. The court reiterated its earlier directive for full transparency and urged for disclosing all pertinent details, including bond numbers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-elections-election-commission-announces-poll-dates-leaders-react-to-date-announcement-701065">Lok Sabha Elections: Election Commission announces poll dates, leaders react to date announcement</a></strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, the State Bank Of India had requested an extension to submit electoral bond data until June 30, however, the Supreme Court had dismissed it. The unveiling of the electoral bond details coincided with the announcement of the dates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to take place in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with results expected on June 4.</p>

<p>According to the State Bank of India, a total of 22,217 electoral bonds were purchased and 22,030 were redeemed by political parties between April 1, 2019, and February 15, 2024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission of India has revealed fresh data on the financial transactions of political parties through the now-quashed electoral bonds scheme. Reports suggest that the disclosed data encompassed crucial details such as the issuance dates, number of bonds, denominations, and the respective State Bank of India (SBI) branches involved in the transactions.

The Election Commission of India has revealed fresh data on the financial transactions of political parties through the now-quashed electoral bonds scheme. Reports suggest that the disclosed data encompassed crucial details such as the issuance dates, number of bonds, denominations, and the respective State Bank of India (SBI) branches involved in the transactions. Additionally, it also includes the dates of receipt and crediting into the respective parties' bank accounts. However, even the new data does not contain any information on the electoral bond numbers. The election commission had provided this latest disclosed information to the SC in sealed envelopes with the poll body not retaining any. Also Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP under PM Modi deploys Artificial Intelligence to break language barrier Each electoral bond issued by the State Bank of India reportedly bears a distinctive alphanumeric code, visible only under certain lighting conditions. This code serves as a means to associate each donation with the corresponding political party that receives it, forming a link between the donors and recipients. Also Read | Telangana CM launches scathing attack against BRS and BJP over Kavitha's arrest, calls it 'serial drama Earlier, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, leading a five-judge bench, questioned the SBI's reluctance to disclose the individual bond numbers. The court reiterated its earlier directive for full transparency and urged for disclosing all pertinent details, including bond numbers. Watch | Lok Sabha Elections: Election Commission announces poll dates, leaders react to date announcement × Earlier, the State Bank Of India had requested an extension to submit electoral bond data until June 30, however, the Supreme Court had dismissed it. The unveiling of the electoral bond details coincided with the announcement of the dates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to take place in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with results expected on June 4. According to the State Bank of India, a total of 22,217 electoral bonds were purchased and 22,030 were redeemed by political parties between April 1, 2019, and February 15, 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Election Commission of India reveals fresh data on electoral bonds

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


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

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

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

<p>The prime minister-chaired high-powered committee will meet on March 15 to finalise the names of new election commissioners, top sources said. Two vacancies of election commissioners came about following the resignation of Arun Goel and Anup Chandra Pandey's retirement.</p>

<p>The panel is chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has a Union minister and the Leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury as members. It will meet on March 15 and name the persons for appointment as election commissioners.</p>

<p>The election commissioners will be appointed by the president.</p>

<p>The sources said the appointment of two new election commissioners is likely to be made by March 15 to fill the vacancies created by Pandey's retirement and Goel's surprise resignation.</p>

<p>They said the notice for the meeting was sent on Saturday afternoon while Goel's resignation was notified in the evening.</p>

<p>The sources added that during the meeting, two appointments of election commissioners are likely to be made against one, as anticipated earlier.</p>

<p>The March 15 notice, the sources said, refers to the postponed meeting of the committee that was to be held on March 7 to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Pandey, who demitted office on February 14 on attaining the age of 65 years.</p>

<p>Days before the poll panel is expected to announce the schedule for the Lok Sabha polls, Goel resigned on Friday morning. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday and the Union Law Ministry issued a notification to announce it.</p>

<p>This leaves Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar as the sole member of the poll body.</p>

<p>A search committee under Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and comprising the Home secretary and the Department of Personnel and Training secretary, will first prepare two separate panels of five names each for the two posts.</p>

<p>Later, the selection committee headed by the prime minister will name two persons for appointment as election commissioners.</p>

<p>Sources had earlier said the selection committee could meet either on March 13 or 14, depending on the convenience of the members, and the appointments were likely by March 15.</p>

<p>Before a new law on the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners came into force recently, the election commissioners were appointed by the president on the government's recommendation and, as per custom, the senior-most was appointed as the chief election commissioner.</p>

<p>Clause 2 of Article 324 of the Constitution states that the Election Commission shall consist of the chief election commissioner and such number of other election commissioners, if any, as the president may from time to time fix.</p>

<p>Responding to questions on the reasons behind Goel's resignation, the sources said he might have resigned due to personal reasons.</p>

<p>They also rejected suggestions that there were differences between Goel and Kumar, saying records of internal communication, minutes and decisions show there was no dissent recorded by Goel.</p>

<p>If seasoned bureaucrats brainstorm on an issue, there are bound to be differences in opinion and perception. These cannot be described as differences, they added.</p>

<p>Goel, who tendered his resignation on Friday morning, did not attend the crucial meeting between the Election Commission and top home ministry and railways officials to firm up the deployment and the movement of central forces across India for poll duty.</p>

<p>Goel was a 1985-batch IAS officer of the Punjab cadre. He had joined the Election Commission in November 2022. His tenure was until December 5, 2027, and he would have become chief election commissioner after incumbent Rajiv Kumar retired next February.</p>

<p>Ashok Lavasa had resigned as election commissioner in August 2020. He had given dissent notes on various model code of conduct violation decisions taken by the Election Commission during the last Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>Originally, the commission had only a chief election commissioner. It currently consists of the chief election commissioner and two election commissioners.</p>

<p>Two additional commissioners were first appointed on October 16, 1989, but their tenures lasted till January 1, 1990. Later, on October 1, 1993, two additional election commissioners were appointed.</p>

<p>The concept of a multi-member Election Commission has been in operation since then, with decisions made by a majority vote.</p>


The prime minister-chaired high-powered committee will meet on March 15 to finalise the names of new election commissioners, top sources said. Two vacancies of election commissioners came about following the resignation of Arun Goel and Anup Chandra Pandey's retirement.

The prime minister-chaired high-powered committee will meet on March 15 to finalise the names of new election commissioners, top sources said. Two vacancies of election commissioners came about following the resignation of Arun Goel and Anup Chandra Pandey's retirement. The panel is chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has a Union minister and the Leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury as members. It will meet on March 15 and name the persons for appointment as election commissioners. The election commissioners will be appointed by the president. The sources said the appointment of two new election commissioners is likely to be made by March 15 to fill the vacancies created by Pandey's retirement and Goel's surprise resignation. They said the notice for the meeting was sent on Saturday afternoon while Goel's resignation was notified in the evening. The sources added that during the meeting, two appointments of election commissioners are likely to be made against one, as anticipated earlier. The March 15 notice, the sources said, refers to the postponed meeting of the committee that was to be held on March 7 to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Pandey, who demitted office on February 14 on attaining the age of 65 years. Days before the poll panel is expected to announce the schedule for the Lok Sabha polls, Goel resigned on Friday morning. His resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday and the Union Law Ministry issued a notification to announce it. This leaves Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar as the sole member of the poll body. A search committee under Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and comprising the Home secretary and the Department of Personnel and Training secretary, will first prepare two separate panels of five names each for the two posts. Later, the selection committee headed by the prime minister will name two persons for appointment as election commissioners. Sources had earlier said the selection committee could meet either on March 13 or 14, depending on the convenience of the members, and the appointments were likely by March 15. Before a new law on the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners came into force recently, the election commissioners were appointed by the president on the government's recommendation and, as per custom, the senior-most was appointed as the chief election commissioner. Clause 2 of Article 324 of the Constitution states that the Election Commission shall consist of the chief election commissioner and such number of other election commissioners, if any, as the president may from time to time fix. Responding to questions on the reasons behind Goel's resignation, the sources said he might have resigned due to personal reasons. They also rejected suggestions that there were differences between Goel and Kumar, saying records of internal communication, minutes and decisions show there was no dissent recorded by Goel. If seasoned bureaucrats brainstorm on an issue, there are bound to be differences in opinion and perception. These cannot be described as differences, they added. Goel, who tendered his resignation on Friday morning, did not attend the crucial meeting between the Election Commission and top home ministry and railways officials to firm up the deployment and the movement of central forces across India for poll duty. Goel was a 1985-batch IAS officer of the Punjab cadre. He had joined the Election Commission in November 2022. His tenure was until December 5, 2027, and he would have become chief election commissioner after incumbent Rajiv Kumar retired next February. Ashok Lavasa had resigned as election commissioner in August 2020. He had given dissent notes on various model code of conduct violation decisions taken by the Election Commission during the last Lok Sabha polls. Originally, the commission had only a chief election commissioner. It currently consists of the chief election commissioner and two election commissioners. Two additional commissioners were first appointed on October 16, 1989, but their tenures lasted till January 1, 1990. Later, on October 1, 1993, two additional election commissioners were appointed. The concept of a multi-member Election Commission has been in operation since then, with decisions made by a majority vote.

Lok Sabha polls 2024: PM Modi-chaired committee to meet on March 15 to appoint 2 new election commissioners

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Elections 2024:&nbsp;</strong>The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral. The deceptive WhatsApp message circulated widely across the country and falsely claimed that polling will take place on April 19 and the results will begin to pour in on May 22.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India said that the message is entirely fraudulent and that no official dates have been announced yet. The Commission traditionally discloses the election schedule through a formal press conference.</p>

<h2><strong>India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling and Result Dates</strong></h2>

<p>The Election Commission of India is expected to unveil the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections after March 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Election Commission teams are actively evaluating the election preparedness of various states, with the assessment expected to conclude by March 13.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-general-elections-2024-opposition-india-bloc-announces-seat-deal-in-delhi-gujarat-693567">India General Elections 2024: Opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc announces seat deal in Delhi, Gujarat</a></strong></p>

<p>ECI officials are engaged in frequent meetings with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from different states to proactively address potential challenges before the elections. Key discussions revolve around logistical aspects such as the transportation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the deployment of security personnel, and vigilant monitoring of activities along state borders.</p>

<h2>India Elections: Election Commission makes key changes to ensure transparency</h2>

<p>To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Election Commission has directed state governments to transfer officers who have completed three years in a specific location or are posted in their home district. The Commission has also modified its transfer policy, which constitutes ensuring that the officers are not relocated to adjacent districts within the same Parliamentary Constituency to maintain the fairness in voting process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the months ahead, several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, are gearing up for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Will the BJP maintain its seven-seat sweep in Delhi?</strong></p>

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<p>In the elections ahead in the summer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). To counter the NDA, the Opposition parties forged the Indian National Democratic Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) late last year,&nbsp;replacing the existing bloc called United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress party that governed the country for ten years before PM Modi's party was elected to power in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a stern clarification over the weekend after a message claiming to reveal the schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections went viral. The deceptive WhatsApp message circulated widely across the country and falsely claimed that polling will take place on April 19 and the results will begin to pour in on May 22. The Election Commission of India said that the message is entirely fraudulent and that no official dates have been announced yet. The Commission traditionally discloses the election schedule through a formal press conference. India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling and Result Dates The Election Commission of India is expected to unveil the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections after March 13. Currently, Election Commission teams are actively evaluating the election preparedness of various states, with the assessment expected to conclude by March 13. Also read | India General Elections 2024: Opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc announces seat deal in Delhi, Gujarat ECI officials are engaged in frequent meetings with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from different states to proactively address potential challenges before the elections. Key discussions revolve around logistical aspects such as the transportation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the deployment of security personnel, and vigilant monitoring of activities along state borders. India Elections: Election Commission makes key changes to ensure transparency To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Election Commission has directed state governments to transfer officers who have completed three years in a specific location or are posted in their home district. The Commission has also modified its transfer policy, which constitutes ensuring that the officers are not relocated to adjacent districts within the same Parliamentary Constituency to maintain the fairness in voting process. In the months ahead, several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, are gearing up for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. Also watch | India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Will the BJP maintain its seven-seat sweep in Delhi? × In the elections ahead in the summer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third term in a row for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). To counter the NDA, the Opposition parties forged the Indian National Democratic Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) late last year, replacing the existing bloc called United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress party that governed the country for ten years before PM Modi's party was elected to power in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Election Commission of India steps in to thwart 'viral' poll schedule

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers.</p>

<p>Under the new bill, the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners shall be selected by a panel consisting of the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Minister nominated by the prime minister.</p>

<p>The legislation&nbsp;titled ‘The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023’, was introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) amid din over protests in Manipur.</p>

<p>It will be tabled on Friday (Aug 11) for discussion.</p>

<p>If passed in both Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, the central government can pick and choose any official as per its wishes and scuttle the judiciary’s chances of having a say in the appointment process.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppn condemns proposed bill</strong></h2>

<p>The opposition pointed out that this will affect the neutrality of the Election Commission (EC) as the selection panel would effectively have two members of the Bhartiya Janata Party —&nbsp;the prime minister and the cabinet minister.</p>

<p>The Congress criticised the bill, terming it as "another attempt to control important institutions".</p>

<p>"The PM will appoint a Union Cabinet Minister to replace the CJI as a member of the selection committee to recommend a Chief Election Commissioner. The Opposition leader will be a member but is bound to be outnumbered. This is yet another way to control an institution that must be independent," Congress MP Sushmita Dev said.</p>

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also raised the same concern, saying that it will influence the fairness of elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-exudes-confidence-during-no-confidence-motion-debate-slams-india-alliance-624273">India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance</a></p>

<p>"I had already said that the prime minister does not obey the Supreme Court of the country. His message is clear - he will bring a law through the Parliament to overturn whichever Supreme Court order he does not like. It is a very dangerous situation if the prime minister does not follow the Supreme Court," Kejriwal said on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Dilutes SC ruling</strong></h2>

<p>The move comes at a time when the present Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey is all set to vacate the office next year, possibly days before the announcement of dates for the 2024 general election.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-speaks-on-manipur-issue-says-centre-and-state-working-together-to-restore-peace-624288">PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace</a></p>

<p>Also, the legislation might trigger a fresh face-off between the Supreme Court and the government, as it falls in contravention to the top court's ruling in March that the selection panel should comprise the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and the CJI.</p>

<p>The court had said the order would hold good until a law was made by the parliament.</p>

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The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers. Under the new bill, the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners shall be selected by a panel consisting of the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Minister nominated by the prime minister. The legislation titled ‘The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023’, was introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) amid din over protests in Manipur. It will be tabled on Friday (Aug 11) for discussion. If passed in both Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, the central government can pick and choose any official as per its wishes and scuttle the judiciary’s chances of having a say in the appointment process. Oppn condemns proposed bill The opposition pointed out that this will affect the neutrality of the Election Commission (EC) as the selection panel would effectively have two members of the Bhartiya Janata Party — the prime minister and the cabinet minister. The Congress criticised the bill, terming it as "another attempt to control important institutions". "The PM will appoint a Union Cabinet Minister to replace the CJI as a member of the selection committee to recommend a Chief Election Commissioner. The Opposition leader will be a member but is bound to be outnumbered. This is yet another way to control an institution that must be independent," Congress MP Sushmita Dev said. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also raised the same concern, saying that it will influence the fairness of elections. Also read | India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance "I had already said that the prime minister does not obey the Supreme Court of the country. His message is clear - he will bring a law through the Parliament to overturn whichever Supreme Court order he does not like. It is a very dangerous situation if the prime minister does not follow the Supreme Court," Kejriwal said on X. Dilutes SC ruling The move comes at a time when the present Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey is all set to vacate the office next year, possibly days before the announcement of dates for the 2024 general election. Also read | PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace Also, the legislation might trigger a fresh face-off between the Supreme Court and the government, as it falls in contravention to the top court's ruling in March that the selection panel should comprise the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and the CJI. The court had said the order would hold good until a law was made by the parliament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi-led govt brings a bill excluding Chief Justice from panel selecting poll officers

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) requires all political parties, candidates and workers not to get involved in active political campaigning during 48 hours before the voting day. This period is known as the silence period, and now ECI has made it clear that this will also apply to social media. The ECI on Thursday issued three separate notices to three political parties—BJP, Congress and CPM, for breaching the silence period during Tripura Elections on social media. The political parties and their candidates were reportedly putting up tweets asking voters to vote in their favour or vote out incumbents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Is Election Commission fighting a perception table?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>ECI’s stern message to Indian political parties</strong></h2>

<p>ECI’s message to the Indian political parties is very clear: No such breach of the silence period will be tolerated as Nagaland and Meghalaya go into polls on February 27. ECI officials say the 48-hour silence period, which restricts political campaigning by political parties and their candidates, will also apply to social media, and violations will have consequences.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/northeast-elections-2023-check-tripura-nagaland-meghalaya-voting-and-result-dates-schedule-opinion-poll-562049">Northeast Elections 2023: Check Tripura, Nagaland &amp; Meghalaya Voting and Result Dates, Schedule &amp; Opinion Poll</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Political parties accused of violating the Representation of the People Act, 1951</strong></h2>

<p>Some tweets by the political parties during the Tripura assembly elections were deemed by the ECI in violation of Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. On Thursday, the Commission requested that the respondents take corrective action "as soon as possible" and clarify their position on the violation latest by 5 PM on Friday.</p>

<h2><strong>How is the silence period observed in multi-phased elections?</strong></h2>

<p>In a multi-phased election, the 48-hour silent period could be in effect in some constituencies while the campaign is still going on in others. As per directives from ECI, in such a situation, "no direct or indirect reference equating to the solicitation of support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period" would be allowed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other words, the commission has ruled that the silent period being followed in one district, which is set to vote in the next phase immediately, shall not be affected or disrupted by campaigning in another constituency going to the polls later.</p>

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The Election Commission of India (ECI) requires all political parties, candidates and workers not to get involved in active political campaigning during 48 hours before the voting day.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) requires all political parties, candidates and workers not to get involved in active political campaigning during 48 hours before the voting day. This period is known as the silence period, and now ECI has made it clear that this will also apply to social media. The ECI on Thursday issued three separate notices to three political parties—BJP, Congress and CPM, for breaching the silence period during Tripura Elections on social media. The political parties and their candidates were reportedly putting up tweets asking voters to vote in their favour or vote out incumbents. Watch: Is Election Commission fighting a perception table? × ECI’s stern message to Indian political parties ECI’s message to the Indian political parties is very clear: No such breach of the silence period will be tolerated as Nagaland and Meghalaya go into polls on February 27. ECI officials say the 48-hour silence period, which restricts political campaigning by political parties and their candidates, will also apply to social media, and violations will have consequences. Also Read | Northeast Elections 2023: Check Tripura, Nagaland & Meghalaya Voting and Result Dates, Schedule & Opinion Poll Political parties accused of violating the Representation of the People Act, 1951 Some tweets by the political parties during the Tripura assembly elections were deemed by the ECI in violation of Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. On Thursday, the Commission requested that the respondents take corrective action "as soon as possible" and clarify their position on the violation latest by 5 PM on Friday. How is the silence period observed in multi-phased elections? In a multi-phased election, the 48-hour silent period could be in effect in some constituencies while the campaign is still going on in others. As per directives from ECI, in such a situation, "no direct or indirect reference equating to the solicitation of support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period" would be allowed. In other words, the commission has ruled that the silent period being followed in one district, which is set to vote in the next phase immediately, shall not be affected or disrupted by campaigning in another constituency going to the polls later. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘You'll face consequences,’ ECI issues notices to BJP & 2 other political parties for breaching silence period

Five Indian states are going to polls in February in what is seen as a bellwether elections. The elections are crucial for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. They are being watched keenly in India, almost like the midterm elections in the US. In the next two months, elections will also be held in Punjab & Uttarakhand as well as in Goa and the northeastern state of Manipur. VO: Elections would be held for 403 assembly seats in UP, 117 in Punjab, 70 in Uttarakhand, 60 in Manipur and 40 in Goa.

India's mammoth state elections: Why are they significant?

<p>Retired bureaucrat Rajiv Kumar was on Friday appointed as election commissioner in place of Ashok Lavasa who resigned.</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind cleared his appointment with effect from the date he assumes office. His appointment is in place of Lavasa who resigned with effect from August 31.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-of-india-issues-covid-19-guidelines-for-conduct-of-bihar-polls-322202">Election Commission of India issues COVID-19 guidelines for conduct of Bihar polls</a></strong></p>

<p>"In pursuance of clause (2) of article 324 of the Constitution, the president is pleased to appoint Shri Rajiv Kumar, (IAS retired) as the election commissioner with effect from the date he assumes the office&nbsp;vice Shri Ashok Lavasa, election commissioner who has resigned with effect August 31," an official notification of the Ministry of Law and Justice said.</p>

<p>Rajiv Kumar is a retired IAS officer of 1984 batch of Jharkhand cadre.</p>


Retired bureaucrat Rajiv Kumar was on Friday appointed as election commissioner in place of Ashok Lavasa who resigned. President Ram Nath Kovind cleared his appointment with effect from the date he assumes office.

Retired bureaucrat Rajiv Kumar was on Friday appointed as election commissioner in place of Ashok Lavasa who resigned. President Ram Nath Kovind cleared his appointment with effect from the date he assumes office. His appointment is in place of Lavasa who resigned with effect from August 31. Also read | Election Commission of India issues COVID-19 guidelines for conduct of Bihar polls "In pursuance of clause (2) of article 324 of the Constitution, the president is pleased to appoint Shri Rajiv Kumar, (IAS retired) as the election commissioner with effect from the date he assumes the office vice Shri Ashok Lavasa, election commissioner who has resigned with effect August 31," an official notification of the Ministry of Law and Justice said. Rajiv Kumar is a retired IAS officer of 1984 batch of Jharkhand cadre.

Retired bureaucrat Rajiv Kumar appointed EC in place of Ashok Lavasa

<p>The counting of votes for the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 will begin at 8am today with the fate of Aam Adami Party(AAP) chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to be decided by voters of the national capital. The Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 have been keenly followed nationwide as it is seen as a big test for BJP which has been out of power in Delhi for the past 22 years, the big question on everybody's mind is will the party which dominates the government also come back to rule the capital?</p>

<p>The counting of votes will take place in several locations spread across the city after the Election Commission officials open the EVMs at 8am on Tuesday amid heavy security. The BJP has campaigned to get back the capital with home minister Amit Shah leading the effort and was later joined by PM Modi to take on CM Arvind Kejriwal. Although the BJP hasn't announced its CM face but Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari has been leading the electoral battle for the party.</p>

<p>Several key battles will be keenly followed especially in Dwarka, Chandni Chowk and New Delhi constituencies.</p>

<p>The AAP which had won 67 of the 70 Delhi Vidhan Sabha seats marking a watershed in assembly polls in the capital, this time, however, the BJP hopes to give the ruling party a tough fight although several exit polls have given Kejriwal's party a clear majority. The Congress which failed to open its account in the polls in 2015 will also be hoping to improve its poll tally.</p>


The counting of votes for the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 will begin at 8am today with the fate of Aam Adami Party(AAP) chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to be decided by voters of the national capital.

The counting of votes for the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 will begin at 8am today with the fate of Aam Adami Party(AAP) chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to be decided by voters of the national capital. The Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 have been keenly followed nationwide as it is seen as a big test for BJP which has been out of power in Delhi for the past 22 years, the big question on everybody's mind is will the party which dominates the government also come back to rule the capital? The counting of votes will take place in several locations spread across the city after the Election Commission officials open the EVMs at 8am on Tuesday amid heavy security. The BJP has campaigned to get back the capital with home minister Amit Shah leading the effort and was later joined by PM Modi to take on CM Arvind Kejriwal. Although the BJP hasn't announced its CM face but Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari has been leading the electoral battle for the party. Several key battles will be keenly followed especially in Dwarka, Chandni Chowk and New Delhi constituencies. The AAP which had won 67 of the 70 Delhi Vidhan Sabha seats marking a watershed in assembly polls in the capital, this time, however, the BJP hopes to give the ruling party a tough fight although several exit polls have given Kejriwal's party a clear majority. The Congress which failed to open its account in the polls in 2015 will also be hoping to improve its poll tally.

Delhi Assembly Election Results 2020 LIVE: Big test for BJP, Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Adami Party as counting of votes begin

<p>With the counting underway for Delhi Assembly elections, the early trends showed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was leading in 22 seats while&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 14 seats, according to the official website of the Election Commission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, television reports stated that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-279915">AAP was leading in 41 seats </a>followed by BJP which leads in 20 seats.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Official EC trends: Aam Aadmi Party leading on 22 seats and Bharatiya Janata Party leading on 14 seats. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiElectionResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiElectionResults</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1227085091521712128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates are leading in Janakpuri, Kalkaji, Ballimaran, Bawana, Chhattarpur and constituency seats while AAP candidates are leading from New Delhi Greater Kailash, Matia Mahal, Nangloi Jat, Kondli among other seats in the national capital trends available for eight seats as of now.</p>

<p>The counting of votes for 70 seats of the Delhi Assembly began amid tight security at 8 am today.</p>

<p>Delhi went to polls in a single-phase on February 8.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results will determine the fate of the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AAP, BJP, Congress, JDU are the main political parties in the fray.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The primary fight is between the ruling AAP and the BJP which is seeking to make reentry into the state politics in the national capital after over 20 years.&nbsp;</p>


With the counting underway for Delhi Assembly elections, the early trends showed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was leading in 22 seats while Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 14 seats, according to the official website of the Election Commission.

With the counting underway for Delhi Assembly elections, the early trends showed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was leading in 22 seats while Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 14 seats, according to the official website of the Election Commission. Meanwhile, television reports stated that AAP was leading in 41 seats followed by BJP which leads in 20 seats. #UPDATE: Official EC trends: Aam Aadmi Party leading on 22 seats and Bharatiya Janata Party leading on 14 seats. #DelhiElectionResults — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2020 × The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates are leading in Janakpuri, Kalkaji, Ballimaran, Bawana, Chhattarpur and constituency seats while AAP candidates are leading from New Delhi Greater Kailash, Matia Mahal, Nangloi Jat, Kondli among other seats in the national capital trends available for eight seats as of now. The counting of votes for 70 seats of the Delhi Assembly began amid tight security at 8 am today. Delhi went to polls in a single-phase on February 8. The results will determine the fate of the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government. AAP, BJP, Congress, JDU are the main political parties in the fray. The primary fight is between the ruling AAP and the BJP which is seeking to make reentry into the state politics in the national capital after over 20 years.

Delhi Election 2020 Results: AAP leads in 22 seats, BJP 14, says Election Commission report

From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal

<p>Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a></p>

<p>According to the Election Commission of India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2020-delhi-election-news-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-election-result-2020-AAP-surges-into-lead-as-BJP-trails-Congress-fails-to-open-account">AAP</a> is leading in 63&nbsp;assembly constituencies with the BJP far behind with 7&nbsp;seats. Congress which hadn't declared its chief minister face is yet to open its account.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-election-2020-aap-likely-to-get-55-out-of-70-seats-280025/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Delhi deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's Manish Sisodia who was trailing in successive rounds of counting is now leading with 3,129 votes in the Patparganj assembly constituency against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi with AAP candidate Raghav Chadha leading from Rajinder Nagar constituency.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-irs-officer-to-delhi-cm-the-journey-of-arvind-kejriwal-280027">In Pics:&nbsp;From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal</a></p>

<p>With the Delhi Assembly election results stacked against the BJP, MP Parvesh Verma, said: "I accept the result. We will work hard and give a better performance in the next elections."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/L-G-Anil-Baijal-dissolves-legislative-assembly-amid-Delhi-Assembly-elections-results-2020">Anil Baijal</a> dissolved the sixth legislative assembly as leads showed AAP heading towards an overwhelming majority.</p>

<p>Congress candidate Alka Lamba was trailing from Chandni Chowk assembly seat. "I accept the result, but don't give up. Hindu-Muslim votes were completely polarised. Congress will now have to prepare for a new fight with new faces and a long struggle for the people of Delhi. If you fight today, you will also win tomorrow," Lamba tweeted.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Assembly-polls-AAP-mufflerman-trends-as-Kejriwals-party-surges-in-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-Election-2020">Also Read:&nbsp;AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges in Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020</a></p>

<p>In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha was also leading from the Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency as the AAP wave continued to sweep India's national capital for the second time.</p>

<p>Congratulating the Aam Aadmi Party and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949">Arvind Kejriwal</a>, Kapil Mishra, BJP candidate from Model Town constituency, said: "BJP has lost the fifth state election in a row. It means we have somewhere failed to connect with the people of Delhi."</p>

<p>In the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress had a vote share of 9.7 per cent against the BJP's 32.7 per cent and the AAP's 54.34 per cent. The Congress had been in power in Delhi for three straight terms between 1998-2013 with Dikshit as the chief minister.</p>


Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE According to the Election Commission of India, AAP is leading in 63 assembly constituencies with the BJP far behind with 7 seats. Congress which hadn't declared its chief minister face is yet to open its account. Watch Video: Delhi deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's Manish Sisodia who was trailing in successive rounds of counting is now leading with 3,129 votes in the Patparganj assembly constituency against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi with AAP candidate Raghav Chadha leading from Rajinder Nagar constituency. In Pics: From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal With the Delhi Assembly election results stacked against the BJP, MP Parvesh Verma, said: "I accept the result. We will work hard and give a better performance in the next elections." Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth legislative assembly as leads showed AAP heading towards an overwhelming majority. Congress candidate Alka Lamba was trailing from Chandni Chowk assembly seat. "I accept the result, but don't give up. Hindu-Muslim votes were completely polarised. Congress will now have to prepare for a new fight with new faces and a long struggle for the people of Delhi. If you fight today, you will also win tomorrow," Lamba tweeted. Also Read: AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges in Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha was also leading from the Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency as the AAP wave continued to sweep India's national capital for the second time. Congratulating the Aam Aadmi Party and Arvind Kejriwal, Kapil Mishra, BJP candidate from Model Town constituency, said: "BJP has lost the fifth state election in a row. It means we have somewhere failed to connect with the people of Delhi." In the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress had a vote share of 9.7 per cent against the BJP's 32.7 per cent and the AAP's 54.34 per cent. The Congress had been in power in Delhi for three straight terms between 1998-2013 with Dikshit as the chief minister.

Arvind Kejriwal's AAP surges as BJP trails far behind in Delhi Assembly election results 2020

<p>As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a></p>

<p>In the latest Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2020-delhi-election-news-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-election-result-2020-AAP-surges-into-lead-as-BJP-trails-Congress-fails-to-open-account">AAP</a> was leading in 58 seats with the BJP far behind leading in 12 seats. The Congress which drew a blank last time is not leading in any seat.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/delhi-election-2020-aap-surges-ahead-of-bjp-as-counting-underway-279995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>With the BJP failing to stack the numbers the party expected, BJP MP from East Delhi, Gautam Gambhir said: "We accept Delhi election results and congratulate Arvind Kejriwal &amp; the people of Delhi."</p>

<p>"We tried our best but probably, we could not convince the people of the state. I hope Delhi develops under the chief ministership of Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Assembly-polls-AAP-mufflerman-trends-as-Kejriwals-party-surges-in-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-Election-2020">Also Read:&nbsp;AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges</a></p>

<p>After trailing by over 1,500 votes, Delhi's deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing BJP's Ravi Negi, by 859 votes in the seventh round with AAP's Raghuvinder Shokeen leading from Nangloi Jat constituency, after the sixth round of counting of votes.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949">AAP</a> supporters were seen celebrating on the streets of Delhi as the leads were declared early morning on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>AAP's Amanatullah Khan has been leading from Okhla assembly constituency and Madan Lal leading from &nbsp;Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she had already congratulated Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People have rejected BJP. Only development will work, CAA, NRC and NPR will be rejected," the West Bengal chief minister said.</p>


As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE In the latest Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020, AAP was leading in 58 seats with the BJP far behind leading in 12 seats. The Congress which drew a blank last time is not leading in any seat. Watch Video: With the BJP failing to stack the numbers the party expected, BJP MP from East Delhi, Gautam Gambhir said: "We accept Delhi election results and congratulate Arvind Kejriwal & the people of Delhi." "We tried our best but probably, we could not convince the people of the state. I hope Delhi develops under the chief ministership of Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir added. Also Read: AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges After trailing by over 1,500 votes, Delhi's deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing BJP's Ravi Negi, by 859 votes in the seventh round with AAP's Raghuvinder Shokeen leading from Nangloi Jat constituency, after the sixth round of counting of votes. AAP supporters were seen celebrating on the streets of Delhi as the leads were declared early morning on Tuesday. AAP's Amanatullah Khan has been leading from Okhla assembly constituency and Madan Lal leading from Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she had already congratulated Arvind Kejriwal. "People have rejected BJP. Only development will work, CAA, NRC and NPR will be rejected," the West Bengal chief minister said.

L-G Anil Baijal dissolves legislative assembly amid Delhi Assembly elections results 2020

<p>Chief Minister&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949"> Aam Aadmi Party</a>(AAP) has taken a massive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a></p>

<p>AAP was leading in 57&nbsp;seats with BJP trailing far behind with 13&nbsp;seats. Congress which did not win a single seat in the 2015 Delhi Assembly election is not leading in any seat so far.</p>

<p>In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Akhilesh Pati Tripathi has been leading from Model Town Assembly constituency, after the second round of counting with Pramila Tokas leading from RK Puram.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-who-will-win-the-delhi-elections-2020-279952/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/aam-aadmi-party-aap">Aam Aadmi Party</a>'s Jarnail Singh has been leading from Tilak Nagar after the first round of counting in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020. In the key Chandni Chowk assembly constituency, AAP's Parlad Singh Sawhney has been with 6043 votes against Congress's Alka Lamba at 157 votes and BJP's Suman Kumar Gupta at 67 votes.</p>

<p>As Congress fortune dipped, Congress MP AR Chowdhury said: "Everyone knew that Aam Aadmi Party will return to power for the third time. Congress's defeat will not send a good message."</p>

<p>Celebrations have already begun at AAP office in Delhi after reports of the party taking the lead in early trends poured in early on Tuesday morning. However, BJP chief in Delhi put on a defiant tone saying that he was "confident" that it would be a good day for the BJP.</p>

<p>"Trends indicate that there is a gap between AAP-BJP, there is still time. We are hopeful. Whatever the outcome, being the state chief I am responsible," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari.</p>

<p>According to Delhi's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Ranbir Singh, the counting of votes has been taking place at twenty-one centres across the city.</p>

<p>In the 2015 Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election, AAP had swept the polls with 67 of the 70 seats, however, a sweep of that nature is unlikely with the Opposition BJP leading in 14 seats.</p>


Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) has taken a massive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE AAP was leading in 57 seats with BJP trailing far behind with 13 seats.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) has taken a massive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE AAP was leading in 57 seats with BJP trailing far behind with 13 seats. Congress which did not win a single seat in the 2015 Delhi Assembly election is not leading in any seat so far. In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Akhilesh Pati Tripathi has been leading from Model Town Assembly constituency, after the second round of counting with Pramila Tokas leading from RK Puram. Watch Video: Aam Aadmi Party's Jarnail Singh has been leading from Tilak Nagar after the first round of counting in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020. In the key Chandni Chowk assembly constituency, AAP's Parlad Singh Sawhney has been with 6043 votes against Congress's Alka Lamba at 157 votes and BJP's Suman Kumar Gupta at 67 votes. As Congress fortune dipped, Congress MP AR Chowdhury said: "Everyone knew that Aam Aadmi Party will return to power for the third time. Congress's defeat will not send a good message." Celebrations have already begun at AAP office in Delhi after reports of the party taking the lead in early trends poured in early on Tuesday morning. However, BJP chief in Delhi put on a defiant tone saying that he was "confident" that it would be a good day for the BJP. "Trends indicate that there is a gap between AAP-BJP, there is still time. We are hopeful. Whatever the outcome, being the state chief I am responsible," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari. According to Delhi's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Ranbir Singh, the counting of votes has been taking place at twenty-one centres across the city. In the 2015 Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election, AAP had swept the polls with 67 of the 70 seats, however, a sweep of that nature is unlikely with the Opposition BJP leading in 14 seats.

Delhi Assembly election result 2020: CM Kejriwal's AAP surges as BJP trails, Congress fails to open account

<p>As Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged to a decisive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 the party tweeted a picture of a kid with the AAP cap with the caption "mufflerman" referring to the party chief.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="sv">Mufflerman 😄 <a href="https://t.co/OX6e8o3zay">pic.twitter.com/OX6e8o3zay</a></p>
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1227097503943680000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a></p>

<p>According to the Election Commission, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949">Aam Aadmi Party</a> is leading in &nbsp;58 seats with the BJP trailing far behind with 12 seats.</p>

<p>In the latest trends, AAP's Madal Lal has been leading from Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting in the Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-election-2020-aap-surges-ahead-of-bjp-as-counting-underway-279995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, AAP's Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing from the Patparganj seat in the Delhi Assembly polls against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi by &nbsp;1576 votes in the fifth round of voting. Delhi Assembly Speaker and Aam Aadmi Party's Ram Niwas Goel is also trailing from Shahdara.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2020-delhi-election-news-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-election-result-2020-AAP-surges-into-lead-as-BJP-trails-Congress-fails-to-open-account">Also Read: Kejriwal's AAP surges as BJP trails, Congress fails to open account</a></p>

<p>With the Congress drawing a blank in the early trends, Delhi Congress chief, Subhash Chopra said: "I take responsibility for the party's performance, we will analyse the factors behind this."</p>

<p>"Reason for the drop in our vote percentage is politics of polarisation by both BJP and AAP," Chopra added.</p>

<p>AAP's Raj Kumari Dhillon is leading against Bharatiya Janata Party's Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga from Hari Nagar constituency after fifth round of counting.</p>

<p>AAP candidate from Model Town, Akhilesh Pati Tripathi, who is leading over BJP's Kapil Mishra said: "People want a govt that takes care of its citizens. People of Delhi have voted for development."</p>

<p>In the 2015 Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election, AAP had swept the polls with 67 of the 70 seats, however, a sweep of that nature is unlikely with the Opposition BJP leading in 14 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the leads favouring AAP started coming in the morning, the ruling party's supporters took to Twitter to celebrate.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This Picture Made My Day..!! 👌❤ 🇮🇳 🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAPWinningDelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAPWinningDelhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiResults?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiResults</a> <a href="https://t.co/MHBuc0qw73">pic.twitter.com/MHBuc0qw73</a></p>
— Piyush Golchha (@PiyushGolchha) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGolchha/status/1227068463769882624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AAP worked on the formula of<br />
<br />
Janta Maalik Hai, Neta Naukar hain<br />
<br />
Thats why <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAPWinningDelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAPWinningDelhi</a> 3rd time.</p>
— Shivam Agarwal (@ShivamAgarwalUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivamAgarwalUK/status/1225086446626799617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Europe they say that quality &amp; free education, healthcare &amp; basic amenities r their right as they pay taxes.<br />
<br />
Finally 1 govt in India has made it possible &amp; plans more over nxt 5 yrs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/aapwinningdelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#aapwinningdelhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiElections2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiElections2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAPManifesto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAPManifesto</a>✌️👍</p>
— iScream Dada (@DadaScream) <a href="https://twitter.com/DadaScream/status/1225086468428726272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged to a decisive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 the party tweeted a picture of a kid with the AAP cap with the caption "mufflerman" referring to the party chief.

As Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged to a decisive lead in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 the party tweeted a picture of a kid with the AAP cap with the caption "mufflerman" referring to the party chief. Mufflerman 😄 pic.twitter.com/OX6e8o3zay — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) February 11, 2020 × Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE According to the Election Commission, the Aam Aadmi Party is leading in 58 seats with the BJP trailing far behind with 12 seats. In the latest trends, AAP's Madal Lal has been leading from Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting in the Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020. Watch Video: However, AAP's Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing from the Patparganj seat in the Delhi Assembly polls against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi by 1576 votes in the fifth round of voting. Delhi Assembly Speaker and Aam Aadmi Party's Ram Niwas Goel is also trailing from Shahdara. Also Read: Kejriwal's AAP surges as BJP trails, Congress fails to open account With the Congress drawing a blank in the early trends, Delhi Congress chief, Subhash Chopra said: "I take responsibility for the party's performance, we will analyse the factors behind this." "Reason for the drop in our vote percentage is politics of polarisation by both BJP and AAP," Chopra added. AAP's Raj Kumari Dhillon is leading against Bharatiya Janata Party's Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga from Hari Nagar constituency after fifth round of counting. AAP candidate from Model Town, Akhilesh Pati Tripathi, who is leading over BJP's Kapil Mishra said: "People want a govt that takes care of its citizens. People of Delhi have voted for development." In the 2015 Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election, AAP had swept the polls with 67 of the 70 seats, however, a sweep of that nature is unlikely with the Opposition BJP leading in 14 seats. As the leads favouring AAP started coming in the morning, the ruling party's supporters took to Twitter to celebrate. This Picture Made My Day..!! 👌❤ 🇮🇳 🥰#AAPWinningDelhi #DelhiResults pic.twitter.com/MHBuc0qw73 — Piyush Golchha (@PiyushGolchha) February 11, 2020 × AAP worked on the formula of Janta Maalik Hai, Neta Naukar hain Thats why #AAPWinningDelhi 3rd time. — Shivam Agarwal (@ShivamAgarwalUK) February 5, 2020 × In Europe they say that quality & free education, healthcare & basic amenities r their right as they pay taxes. Finally 1 govt in India has made it possible & plans more over nxt 5 yrs #aapwinningdelhi #DelhiElections2020 #AAPManifesto✌️👍 — iScream Dada (@DadaScream) February 5, 2020 ×

AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges in Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020

<p>Supreme Court on Thursday while hearing a plea against protests over the new citizenship law said that the country is going through a critical time and the "endeavour must be to bring peace".</p>

<p>A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criticism-is-not-best-form-of-correction-cji-sa-bobde-266833">S A Bobde</a> made the observations on a petition filed by a lawyer named Vineet Dhanda seeking stern legal action against those disturbing peace and harmony in the country in the name of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-avoidable-controversy-267862">Citizenship (Amendment) Act</a>.</p>

<p>The court said, "The country is going through the critical time, the endeavour must be to bring peace and such petitions do not help."</p>

<p>Dhanda also sought an urgent listing of his petition seeking to declare the newly amended citizenship law "constitutional".</p>

<p>The top court said it will hear his plea as soon as the violence stops. The plea also sought a direction to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-clean-chit-to-pm-modi-in-two-more-speeches-215735">Election Commission of India</a> to identify and take strict action against political parties who are spreading false rumours and violence in the country in the name of the Act.</p>

<p>It further sought a direction to publicise the law extensively through newspapers, electronic media and other means of advertisement.</p>

<p>Dhanda also sought a direction to Centre to clarify that the Act is not against the spirit of the Constitution and is in no sense against any citizen of India.</p>


Supreme Court on Thursday while hearing a plea against protests over the new citizenship law said that the country is going through a critical time and the "endeavour must be to bring peace".

Supreme Court on Thursday while hearing a plea against protests over the new citizenship law said that the country is going through a critical time and the "endeavour must be to bring peace". A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India S A Bobde made the observations on a petition filed by a lawyer named Vineet Dhanda seeking stern legal action against those disturbing peace and harmony in the country in the name of Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The court said, "The country is going through the critical time, the endeavour must be to bring peace and such petitions do not help." Dhanda also sought an urgent listing of his petition seeking to declare the newly amended citizenship law "constitutional". The top court said it will hear his plea as soon as the violence stops. The plea also sought a direction to the Election Commission of India to identify and take strict action against political parties who are spreading false rumours and violence in the country in the name of the Act. It further sought a direction to publicise the law extensively through newspapers, electronic media and other means of advertisement. Dhanda also sought a direction to Centre to clarify that the Act is not against the spirit of the Constitution and is in no sense against any citizen of India.

CAA protests: Endeavour must be to bring peace, says Supreme Court

<p>&nbsp;A day after the Election Commission announced dates for the Haryana Assembly elections, the manifesto committee of the Haryana Congress will hold its first meeting here on Sunday.</p>

<p>The committee under the chairperson of Kiran Choudhary will discuss and mull over the party`s manifesto for the upcoming elections.</p>

<p>The Congress party has already requested people of the state to come up with suggestions for its manifesto.</p>

<p>Prominent leaders of Haryana Congress, including state president Kumari Selja, former Chief Minister and Congress legislature party leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others, will be present at the meeting.</p>

<p>"We have been receiving suggestions from all sections of society including farmers and their organizations, employees, contractual teachers, etc. We will include the suggestions in our manifesto to make it an inclusive one. Our manifesto will be 'Jan Goshna Patr' that will cater to all sections of society including Dalits, backward, women, youth, etc," said Kumari Selja.</p>

<p>"BJP in its last manifesto promised almost 150 things but delivered none," she added.</p>

<p>Amid dissidence in Haryana unit of the Congress, earlier this month the party-appointed Rajya Sabha MP Kumari Selja as the president of the state unit and also named senior leader Hooda as the CLP chief and Chairman of the State Election Committee.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday announced the single-phase voting for Haryana Assembly elections on October 21, while the counting of votes will take place on October 24.</p>

<p>Haryana has a strength of 90 seats out of which 17 are reserved for SC and none for ST.</p>

<p>There are 1.82 crore registered voters in the state out of which 1.07 lakh are service voters.</p>

<p>Manohar Lal Khattar-led BJP government is in power in Haryana after the party won 47 out of a total of 90 seats in the 2014 Assembly elections, while the Congress was restricted to just 15 seats.</p>


A day after the Election Commission announced dates for the Haryana Assembly elections, the manifesto committee of the Haryana Congress will hold its first meeting here on Sunday.

A day after the Election Commission announced dates for the Haryana Assembly elections, the manifesto committee of the Haryana Congress will hold its first meeting here on Sunday. The committee under the chairperson of Kiran Choudhary will discuss and mull over the party`s manifesto for the upcoming elections. The Congress party has already requested people of the state to come up with suggestions for its manifesto. Prominent leaders of Haryana Congress, including state president Kumari Selja, former Chief Minister and Congress legislature party leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others, will be present at the meeting. "We have been receiving suggestions from all sections of society including farmers and their organizations, employees, contractual teachers, etc. We will include the suggestions in our manifesto to make it an inclusive one. Our manifesto will be 'Jan Goshna Patr' that will cater to all sections of society including Dalits, backward, women, youth, etc," said Kumari Selja. "BJP in its last manifesto promised almost 150 things but delivered none," she added. Amid dissidence in Haryana unit of the Congress, earlier this month the party-appointed Rajya Sabha MP Kumari Selja as the president of the state unit and also named senior leader Hooda as the CLP chief and Chairman of the State Election Committee. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday announced the single-phase voting for Haryana Assembly elections on October 21, while the counting of votes will take place on October 24. Haryana has a strength of 90 seats out of which 17 are reserved for SC and none for ST. There are 1.82 crore registered voters in the state out of which 1.07 lakh are service voters. Manohar Lal Khattar-led BJP government is in power in Haryana after the party won 47 out of a total of 90 seats in the 2014 Assembly elections, while the Congress was restricted to just 15 seats.

Haryana Congress to meet today to discuss manifesto for Assembly election

<p>In line with the `banish single-use plastic` drive in the country, The Election Commission on Saturday asked political parties, candidates and their agents in Haryana and Maharashtra to desist from using plastic, polythene and other environmentally hazardous materials in publicity material for the Assembly polls next month.</p>

<p>Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, who announced the poll schedule for the two states at a press conference here, said that that the Commission has been asking political parties to use only environment-friendly material for campaign purposes since long.</p>

<p>"Considering the long-term deleterious impact of materials like plastics, polythene etc. on the life-giving and life-sustaining environment, the Commission, has directed that all political parties, contesting candidates and their authorized agents, etc., shall desist from utilizing environmentally hazardous materials like plastics, polythene, etc. for the preparation and usage election-related publicity materials during the ensuing elections to the legislative assemblies of Haryana and Maharashtra," he said.</p>

<p>He said the district election officers and returning officers have been directed to emphasise the importance of environment protection and preservation during the meetings with the political parties and contesting candidates and "ensure that instructions of the Commission with regard to the usage of non-eco-friendly materials like plastics, polythene etc during electioneering shall be adhered to by all concerned".</p>

<p>"The CEOs shall impress upon the importance of using eco-friendly and bio-degradable materials for campaign material to various political parties in states and issue necessary instructions in this regard," he said.</p>

<p>Arora said the poll panel had on February 26 this year again instructed that all political parties should take measures to not use single-use plastic as campaign materials (for posters, banners) during elections.</p>

<p>The Commission, he said, has issued advisories on several occasions urging political parties and candidates to avoid single-use plastic and non-biodegradable material in their election campaign activities.</p>

<p>Both Haryana and Maharashtra will go for a single-phase assembly poll on October 21. The government has been pushing for eliminating the use of single-use plastic. The poll panel`s latest thrust on using environment-friendly material in poll campaign is expected to add momentum to the efforts towards curbing the use of plastic and polythene.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In line with the `banish single-use plastic` drive in the country, The Election Commission on Saturday asked political parties, candidates and their agents in Haryana and Maharashtra to desist from using plastic, polythene and other environmentally hazardous materials in publicity material for the Assembly polls next month.

In line with the `banish single-use plastic` drive in the country, The Election Commission on Saturday asked political parties, candidates and their agents in Haryana and Maharashtra to desist from using plastic, polythene and other environmentally hazardous materials in publicity material for the Assembly polls next month. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, who announced the poll schedule for the two states at a press conference here, said that that the Commission has been asking political parties to use only environment-friendly material for campaign purposes since long. "Considering the long-term deleterious impact of materials like plastics, polythene etc. on the life-giving and life-sustaining environment, the Commission, has directed that all political parties, contesting candidates and their authorized agents, etc., shall desist from utilizing environmentally hazardous materials like plastics, polythene, etc. for the preparation and usage election-related publicity materials during the ensuing elections to the legislative assemblies of Haryana and Maharashtra," he said. He said the district election officers and returning officers have been directed to emphasise the importance of environment protection and preservation during the meetings with the political parties and contesting candidates and "ensure that instructions of the Commission with regard to the usage of non-eco-friendly materials like plastics, polythene etc during electioneering shall be adhered to by all concerned". "The CEOs shall impress upon the importance of using eco-friendly and bio-degradable materials for campaign material to various political parties in states and issue necessary instructions in this regard," he said. Arora said the poll panel had on February 26 this year again instructed that all political parties should take measures to not use single-use plastic as campaign materials (for posters, banners) during elections. The Commission, he said, has issued advisories on several occasions urging political parties and candidates to avoid single-use plastic and non-biodegradable material in their election campaign activities. Both Haryana and Maharashtra will go for a single-phase assembly poll on October 21. The government has been pushing for eliminating the use of single-use plastic. The poll panel`s latest thrust on using environment-friendly material in poll campaign is expected to add momentum to the efforts towards curbing the use of plastic and polythene.

Election Commission asks parties not to use plastic, polythene in poll material

<p>The by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be held on September 23, Election Commission of India (ECI) stated on Thursday.</p>

<p>Polling will be held from 9am to 4pm on September 23, while counting of votes will take place on the same day.</p>

<p>The by-elections were necessitated after the resignations of Surendra Singh Nagar and Sanjay Seth from the Rajya Sabha and the Samajwadi Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the leaders joined BJP earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>


The by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be held on September 23, Election Commission of India (ECI) stated on Thursday. Polling will be held from 9am to 4pm on September 23, while counting of votes will take place on the same day.

The by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh will be held on September 23, Election Commission of India (ECI) stated on Thursday. Polling will be held from 9am to 4pm on September 23, while counting of votes will take place on the same day. The by-elections were necessitated after the resignations of Surendra Singh Nagar and Sanjay Seth from the Rajya Sabha and the Samajwadi Party. Both the leaders joined BJP earlier this month.

By-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh to be held on September 23

World leaders welcome back PM Modi. Putin, Xi, Netanyahu congratulate PM Modi. Bhutan & Japan PM hail PM Modi's landslide victory. #GeneralElections2019 #LokSabhaElectionResult #PMModi #BJP #ResultsOnWion

Gravitas: World Leaders Hail PM Modi's Victory

Rahul Gandhi concedes his defeat in a press conference today. He also congratulates PM Modi as well as Smriti Irani for winning from Cong baston Amethi. #GeneralElections2019 #LokSabhaElectionResult #PMModi #BJP #ResultsOnWion

Gravitas: Rahul Gandhi Loses Cong Baston Amethi

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