Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on 30th April 2019.

India Election Watch; 30th April 2019

Watch this segment of India Election Watch for latest updates of India Election as on May 1st, 2019.

India Election Watch; May 1st, 2019

This segment of India Election Watch brings to you the story of veteran politicians. Watch this video to know about parliamentarians with most terms.

India Election Watch: All you need to know about parliamentarians with most terms

Congress writes to TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samithi) chief, seeks support for Rahul Gandhi. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Congress seeks TRS support for Rahul Gandhi

In this edition of WION's Know Your Candidate, we feature Arjun Ram Meghwal. Know more about him by watching this video.

India Election Watch: Know Your Candidate, who is Arjun Ram Meghwal?

While addressing a public rally in Uttar Pradesh’s Barabanki today, Congress President Rahul Gandhi took jibe at PM Modi and said, “Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav’s controller is in the hands of PM Modi. Modi can’t suppress me, Modi can suppress BSP and SP.” Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: PM Modi can suppress BSP-SP but not me, says Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday attacked the troika of Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Samajwadi Party at a rally here while skipping any mention of Ram Temple. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Prime Minister Modi campaigns in UP, MP

This segment of India Election Watch brings to you top election headlines of the day.

India Election Watch: Watch top election stories

Rally roster for top leaders for May 1st, 2019. Watch more to know.

India Election Watch: Rally roster for top leaders for May 1st, 2019

Watch Gravitas full segment and know what has been the most trending and important stories of the day. Watch this video to know more.

Watch: WION Gravitas, 30th April, 2019

Is there a Modi Wave in 2019? Watch this video to find out.

India Election Watch: Is there a Modi Wave in 2019?

In this edition of WION's Know Your Candidate, we feature Jayant Sinha. Know more about him by watching this video.

India Election Watch: Know Your Candidate, who is Jayant Sinha?

Global Times, China's state-run media, recently heaped praise on PM Modi for being rational on New Delhi-Beijing issues and maintaining a diplomatic balance between China and India.

India Election Watch: Globel Times bets on Indian Prime Minister Modi's return

The MHA has reportedly sent a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after Subramanian Swamy's representation in which the BJP Rajya Sabha MP claimed that Rahul Gandhi was a British citizen.So far, there hasn't been an official statement from an MHA spokesperson.

India Election Watch: Double whammy for Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a veiled attack on Congress while addressing a rally in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur on Tuesday. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: PM Modi hits out at Opposition in Bihar

Rally roster for top leaders for April 30, 2019. Watch more to know.

India Election Watch: Rally roster for top leaders for April 30, 2019

Spain is all set to vote on Sunday, April 28, for the 2019 general elections - the third to be held in the last four years.

Voting for the 350-seat parliament is being held in the backdrop of tensions over Catalonia, following the failed bid for Catalan independence in 2017.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was forced to announce the snap polls in February this year after his 2019 budget proposals were rejected across political lines, including by pro-independence Catalan parties whose support kept Sanchez`s government afloat.

The major parties which will be contesting the elections for the 350-seat parliament are the Spanish Socialist Workers` Party (PSOE), the conservative People`s Party (PP), left-wing populist Podemos, centrist-populist Ciudadanos (or Citizens) and far-right Vox party, according to Al Jazeera.

Incumbent Prime Minister and PSOE leader Pedro Sanchez will be seeking re-election during Sunday`s elections.

The elections will be held for the third time in four years. Sanchez has led the country for less than a year, after coming into power in 2018 following a vote of no-confidence against the previous regime.

While it is unlikely that any one party will be able to win enough seats to declare a majority, opinion polls indicate that Sanchez`s party is projected to win 129 seats, while PP may secure around 78.

Citizens may land 46 seats, while Podemos and Vox are projected to win 35 and 30 seats each, respectively.

There is a probability of the formation of two blocs following the declaration of the results.

PSOE, Podemos and regional nationalists is the first potential coalition while the second probable bloc is made up of PP, Ciudadanos, Vox.

The major division between the two potential blocs is their differing stance on the Catalan issue.If no working majority is formed, another round of general elections will be held in the European country.&nbsp;

Spain is all set to vote on Sunday, April 28, for the 2019 general elections - the third to be held in the last four years. Voting for the 350-seat parliament is being held in the backdrop of tensions over Catalonia, following the failed bid for Catalan independence in 2017.

Spain is all set to vote on Sunday, April 28, for the 2019 general elections - the third to be held in the last four years. Voting for the 350-seat parliament is being held in the backdrop of tensions over Catalonia, following the failed bid for Catalan independence in 2017. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was forced to announce the snap polls in February this year after his 2019 budget proposals were rejected across political lines, including by pro-independence Catalan parties whose support kept Sanchez`s government afloat. The major parties which will be contesting the elections for the 350-seat parliament are the Spanish Socialist Workers` Party (PSOE), the conservative People`s Party (PP), left-wing populist Podemos, centrist-populist Ciudadanos (or Citizens) and far-right Vox party, according to Al Jazeera. Incumbent Prime Minister and PSOE leader Pedro Sanchez will be seeking re-election during Sunday`s elections. The elections will be held for the third time in four years. Sanchez has led the country for less than a year, after coming into power in 2018 following a vote of no-confidence against the previous regime. While it is unlikely that any one party will be able to win enough seats to declare a majority, opinion polls indicate that Sanchez`s party is projected to win 129 seats, while PP may secure around 78. Citizens may land 46 seats, while Podemos and Vox are projected to win 35 and 30 seats each, respectively. There is a probability of the formation of two blocs following the declaration of the results. PSOE, Podemos and regional nationalists is the first potential coalition while the second probable bloc is made up of PP, Ciudadanos, Vox. The major division between the two potential blocs is their differing stance on the Catalan issue.If no working majority is formed, another round of general elections will be held in the European country.

Spain all set for snap polls on April 28

Indonesians began voting in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-indonesia-prepares-for-april-17th-polls-211011">world's biggest single-day election</a> on Wednesday as polling stations opened across the sprawling equatorial archipelago following a six-month campaign to choose a new president and parliament.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-election-the-people-issues-and-preparations-210870">eight-hour vote across a country</a> that stretches more than 5,000 km (3,000 miles) from its western to eastern tips is both a Herculean logistical feat and testimony to the resilience of democracy two decades after authoritarianism was defeated.

President Joko Widodo, a furniture businessman who entered politics 14 years ago as a small-city mayor, is seeking re-election against former general Prabowo Subianto, whom he narrowly defeated in the last election, in 2014.

The economy dominated the hard-fought campaign, though the rise of political Islam loomed over the contest in the world's most populous Muslim-majority country.

Most opinion polls give Widodo a double-digit lead, but the opposition says the race is much closer and Prabowo told a news conference late on Tuesday that he expected to win with 63 per cent of the vote.

Voting began first in the far-flung eastern province of Papua, which is two hours ahead of Jakarta, the capital.

Ballot papers were delivered with security escorts to remote regions of the country by plane, speedboat, canoe and horseback. Two speedboats have been deployed as mobile polling stations for residents on the Thousand Islands chain north of Jakarta.

A tornado in East Java late on Tuesday destroyed two village polling stations and cut power to two others, forcing the authorities to move voting to safer areas, the domestic news agency Antara reported.

More than 10,000 people have volunteered to crowd-source election results posted at polling stations in a real-time bid to thwart attempts at fraud.

However, the opposition has already alleged voter list irregularities that could affect millions and has vowed legal or "people power" action if its concerns are ignored.

Several videos appeared online last week apparently showing thousands of voting papers stuffed in bags at a warehouse in neighbouring Malaysia, with many apparently already marked.

The country's election supervisory board has recommended a re-vote for Indonesians in Malaysia and in Australia, where several hundred registered voters were still standing in line after the polls closed there on Saturday. A decision will be taken by the elections commission.

"Even though there have been obstacles and anomalies, I believe, at the end of it, we cannot contain the will of the people," Prabowo said on the eve of the vote.

An unexpected win for the challenger could trigger a brief sell-off in financial markets that have priced in a Widodo victory, analysts say.

"Should Prabowo win, this would literally be the end of opinion polling in Indonesia ... and a major, major upset," said Marcus Mietzner, associate professor at Australian National University. "The question is what the margin of victory will be," he said, predicting Widodo's re-election.

A win for Widodo with 52-55 per cent of the vote would be the "sweet spot" said a senior government official close to the president, adding that this would spur him to continue and even accelerate economic reforms.

'GAME OF THRONES'

Poll-related hashtags trended on Twitter in Indonesia during a three-day quiet period in the run-up to voting day.

Social media users compared the presidential race to the HBO series "Game of Thrones" - with one online meme showing Widodo sitting on its coveted Iron Throne.

Widodo touted his record on deregulation and improving infrastructure, calling it a first step to tackling inequality and poverty in Southeast Asia's biggest economy.

A moderate Muslim from central Java, Widodo had to burnish his Islamic credentials after smear campaigns and hoax stories accused him of being anti-Islam, a communist or too close to China, all politically damaging in Indonesia. He picked Islamic cleric Ma'ruf Amin, 76, as his running mate.

Prabowo, a former special forces commander who has links to some hardline Islamist groups, and his running mate, business entrepreneur Sandiaga Uno, say they will boost the economy by slashing taxes and focussing on infrastructure.

QUICK COUNTS

Nearly 350,000 police and soldiers will join 1.6 million paramilitary officers stationed across the country of 17,000 islands to safeguard the vote.

More than 192 million people are eligible to cast ballots in national and regional legislative elections being contested by more than 245,000 candidates.

Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (2200 GMT on Tuesday) in the east and will close at 1 p.m. (0600 GMT) in the west.

Voters will have five paper ballots for president, vice president, and national and regional legislative candidates.

Unofficial "quick counts", based on samples from polling stations, will be released hours after voting ends. The winning presidential candidate could be known by late on Wednesday.

Official results will be announced in May. Any disputes can be taken to the Constitutional Court where a nine-judge panel will have 14 days to rule on them.

 
&nbsp;

Indonesians began voting in the world's biggest single-day election on Wednesday as polling stations opened across the sprawling equatorial archipelago following a six-month campaign to choose a new president and parliament.

Indonesians began voting in the world's biggest single-day election on Wednesday as polling stations opened across the sprawling equatorial archipelago following a six-month campaign to choose a new president and parliament. The eight-hour vote across a country that stretches more than 5,000 km (3,000 miles) from its western to eastern tips is both a Herculean logistical feat and testimony to the resilience of democracy two decades after authoritarianism was defeated. President Joko Widodo, a furniture businessman who entered politics 14 years ago as a small-city mayor, is seeking re-election against former general Prabowo Subianto, whom he narrowly defeated in the last election, in 2014. The economy dominated the hard-fought campaign, though the rise of political Islam loomed over the contest in the world's most populous Muslim-majority country. Most opinion polls give Widodo a double-digit lead, but the opposition says the race is much closer and Prabowo told a news conference late on Tuesday that he expected to win with 63 per cent of the vote. Voting began first in the far-flung eastern province of Papua, which is two hours ahead of Jakarta, the capital. Ballot papers were delivered with security escorts to remote regions of the country by plane, speedboat, canoe and horseback. Two speedboats have been deployed as mobile polling stations for residents on the Thousand Islands chain north of Jakarta. A tornado in East Java late on Tuesday destroyed two village polling stations and cut power to two others, forcing the authorities to move voting to safer areas, the domestic news agency Antara reported. More than 10,000 people have volunteered to crowd-source election results posted at polling stations in a real-time bid to thwart attempts at fraud. However, the opposition has already alleged voter list irregularities that could affect millions and has vowed legal or "people power" action if its concerns are ignored. Several videos appeared online last week apparently showing thousands of voting papers stuffed in bags at a warehouse in neighbouring Malaysia, with many apparently already marked. The country's election supervisory board has recommended a re-vote for Indonesians in Malaysia and in Australia, where several hundred registered voters were still standing in line after the polls closed there on Saturday. A decision will be taken by the elections commission. "Even though there have been obstacles and anomalies, I believe, at the end of it, we cannot contain the will of the people," Prabowo said on the eve of the vote. An unexpected win for the challenger could trigger a brief sell-off in financial markets that have priced in a Widodo victory, analysts say. "Should Prabowo win, this would literally be the end of opinion polling in Indonesia ... and a major, major upset," said Marcus Mietzner, associate professor at Australian National University. "The question is what the margin of victory will be," he said, predicting Widodo's re-election. A win for Widodo with 52-55 per cent of the vote would be the "sweet spot" said a senior government official close to the president, adding that this would spur him to continue and even accelerate economic reforms. 'GAME OF THRONES' Poll-related hashtags trended on Twitter in Indonesia during a three-day quiet period in the run-up to voting day. Social media users compared the presidential race to the HBO series "Game of Thrones" - with one online meme showing Widodo sitting on its coveted Iron Throne. Widodo touted his record on deregulation and improving infrastructure, calling it a first step to tackling inequality and poverty in Southeast Asia's biggest economy. A moderate Muslim from central Java, Widodo had to burnish his Islamic credentials after smear campaigns and hoax stories accused him of being anti-Islam, a communist or too close to China, all politically damaging in Indonesia. He picked Islamic cleric Ma'ruf Amin, 76, as his running mate. Prabowo, a former special forces commander who has links to some hardline Islamist groups, and his running mate, business entrepreneur Sandiaga Uno, say they will boost the economy by slashing taxes and focussing on infrastructure. QUICK COUNTS Nearly 350,000 police and soldiers will join 1.6 million paramilitary officers stationed across the country of 17,000 islands to safeguard the vote. More than 192 million people are eligible to cast ballots in national and regional legislative elections being contested by more than 245,000 candidates. Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (2200 GMT on Tuesday) in the east and will close at 1 p.m. (0600 GMT) in the west. Voters will have five paper ballots for president, vice president, and national and regional legislative candidates. Unofficial "quick counts", based on samples from polling stations, will be released hours after voting ends. The winning presidential candidate could be known by late on Wednesday. Official results will be announced in May. Any disputes can be taken to the Constitutional Court where a nine-judge panel will have 14 days to rule on them.

In world's biggest one-day election, Indonesia votes for its president

What happens when you go to a polling station only to find that someone else cast your vote. Know what can be done in that situation?

IEW: What If someone else casts your Vote?

Tens of millions of Indonesians will vote in presidential and parliamentary <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesians-to-vote-in-worlds-biggest-single-day-election-210259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjExKrzotHhAhULMo8KHa_HDHYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw36Vtlpp0m2PRPV_wBB8dM6">elections</a> this week after campaigns focused on the economy, but with political Islam looming ever larger in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation.

President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-presidential-election-prabowo-subianto-vs-joko-widodo-209329&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjExKrzotHhAhULMo8KHa_HDHYQFggHMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1mpgOl_VBgeV8CYn51Uflk">Joko Widodo</a>, a former furniture salesman who launched his political career as a small-city mayor, is standing for re-election in a contest with ex-general Prabowo Subianto, whom he narrowly defeated in 2014.

Most opinion polls give Widodo a double-digit lead but the opposition has disputed survey findings. It has also said it has uncovered data irregularities affecting millions on the electoral rolls and has vowed to take legal action or use "people power" if its complaints are not resolved.

Some analysts say an unexpected win for the challenger would probably cause a brief slump in Indonesian markets, while a very close race could elevate the risk of a disputed vote.

"In a scenario in which Widodo wins by an unexpectedly narrow margin, large and prolonged protests in Jakarta would elevate tensions and pressure the currency," Kevin O'Rourke, a political analyst and author of Reformasi Weekly, said in the Indonesia-focused newsletter last week.

While most polls have put the president ahead, they could not be taken for granted, a senior government official said.

"Absolutely everybody is flying blind because we don't know how far the opinion polls can be respected," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Widodo ended his six-month campaign with a mass rally at Jakarta's main stadium at the weekend, where festive crowds overflowed into a surrounding park and streets.

Running ran out on stage in sneakers, to the cheers of the crowd after an hours-long concert by local bands, he struck an optimistic tone for the future of the world's third-largest democracy.

That was a stark contrast to his opponent, who has repeatedly warned Indonesia is on the verge of collapse.

Prabowo, as he is usually known, held a similarly big rally the previous weekend where supporters, many dressed in Islamic robes, held a mass prayer before a fiery speech about how Indonesia was being pillaged by foreigners and the elite.

QUICK COUNTS

Widodo has touted a record infrastructure drive and deregulation as major successes during his tenure, calling it a first step to tackle inequality and poverty in Southeast Asia's biggest economy.

In a televised weekend debate, Widodo and his running mate, Islamic cleric Ma'ruf Amin, said their opponents, neither of whom has served in public office for more than a few months, did not understand managing macrolevel economics.

Widodo, a moderate Muslim from central Java, has had to burnish his Islamic credentials after smear campaigns and hoax stories accused him of being anti-Islam, a communist or too close to China, all politically damaging in Indonesia.

Prabowo, who has close links to some hardline Islamist groups, and his running mate, business tycoon Sandiaga Uno, have pledged to boost the economy by slashing taxes as much as 8 percentage points and focus on key infrastructure projects.

Nearly 500,000 police and military will fan out across the vast archipelago to safeguard the vote. In Jakarta, the capital, officers will guard polling station to deter voter intimidation or clashes, national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo said.

More than 192 million will also vote in national and regional legislative elections, being contested by more than 245,000 candidates, in what is being described as the world's biggest single-day election.

Overseas voting is already underway, with thousands lining up outside Indonesian missions in Singapore and Australia.

On Wednesday (April 17), polling stations will open at 7 am&nbsp;(2200 GMT Tuesday) in eastern Indonesia and close at 1 pm (0600 GMT) on the western side of the country.

Voters will manually punch five separate paper ballots for president and vice president, and legislative candidates.

Unofficial "quick counts", based on vote samples from polling stations, will be released hours after polling ends and the winning presidential candidate is expected to be apparent by late Wednesday.

The General Election Commission is expected to announce an official result in May.

Candidates have 72 hours after the official result to complain to the Constitutional Court. A nine-judge panel has 14 days to reach a decision, which cannot be appealed.&nbsp;

Tens of millions of Indonesians will vote in presidential and parliamentary elections this week after campaigns focused on the economy, but with political Islam looming ever larger in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation.

Tens of millions of Indonesians will vote in presidential and parliamentary elections this week after campaigns focused on the economy, but with political Islam looming ever larger in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation. President Joko Widodo, a former furniture salesman who launched his political career as a small-city mayor, is standing for re-election in a contest with ex-general Prabowo Subianto, whom he narrowly defeated in 2014. Most opinion polls give Widodo a double-digit lead but the opposition has disputed survey findings. It has also said it has uncovered data irregularities affecting millions on the electoral rolls and has vowed to take legal action or use "people power" if its complaints are not resolved. Some analysts say an unexpected win for the challenger would probably cause a brief slump in Indonesian markets, while a very close race could elevate the risk of a disputed vote. "In a scenario in which Widodo wins by an unexpectedly narrow margin, large and prolonged protests in Jakarta would elevate tensions and pressure the currency," Kevin O'Rourke, a political analyst and author of Reformasi Weekly, said in the Indonesia-focused newsletter last week. While most polls have put the president ahead, they could not be taken for granted, a senior government official said. "Absolutely everybody is flying blind because we don't know how far the opinion polls can be respected," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Widodo ended his six-month campaign with a mass rally at Jakarta's main stadium at the weekend, where festive crowds overflowed into a surrounding park and streets. Running ran out on stage in sneakers, to the cheers of the crowd after an hours-long concert by local bands, he struck an optimistic tone for the future of the world's third-largest democracy. That was a stark contrast to his opponent, who has repeatedly warned Indonesia is on the verge of collapse. Prabowo, as he is usually known, held a similarly big rally the previous weekend where supporters, many dressed in Islamic robes, held a mass prayer before a fiery speech about how Indonesia was being pillaged by foreigners and the elite. QUICK COUNTS Widodo has touted a record infrastructure drive and deregulation as major successes during his tenure, calling it a first step to tackle inequality and poverty in Southeast Asia's biggest economy. In a televised weekend debate, Widodo and his running mate, Islamic cleric Ma'ruf Amin, said their opponents, neither of whom has served in public office for more than a few months, did not understand managing macrolevel economics. Widodo, a moderate Muslim from central Java, has had to burnish his Islamic credentials after smear campaigns and hoax stories accused him of being anti-Islam, a communist or too close to China, all politically damaging in Indonesia. Prabowo, who has close links to some hardline Islamist groups, and his running mate, business tycoon Sandiaga Uno, have pledged to boost the economy by slashing taxes as much as 8 percentage points and focus on key infrastructure projects. Nearly 500,000 police and military will fan out across the vast archipelago to safeguard the vote. In Jakarta, the capital, officers will guard polling station to deter voter intimidation or clashes, national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo said. More than 192 million will also vote in national and regional legislative elections, being contested by more than 245,000 candidates, in what is being described as the world's biggest single-day election. Overseas voting is already underway, with thousands lining up outside Indonesian missions in Singapore and Australia. On Wednesday (April 17), polling stations will open at 7 am (2200 GMT Tuesday) in eastern Indonesia and close at 1 pm (0600 GMT) on the western side of the country. Voters will manually punch five separate paper ballots for president and vice president, and legislative candidates. Unofficial "quick counts", based on vote samples from polling stations, will be released hours after polling ends and the winning presidential candidate is expected to be apparent by late Wednesday. The General Election Commission is expected to announce an official result in May. Candidates have 72 hours after the official result to complain to the Constitutional Court. A nine-judge panel has 14 days to reach a decision, which cannot be appealed.

192 million voters, 245, 000 candidates: Indonesia to vote in world's biggest single-day election on April 17

United colours of India come out to vote in phase 1 of Lok Sabha polls

Polling is underway Thursday for the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404"> first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections</a>.

Here are some interesting facts about phase one.

* Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories.

* Total number of polling stations: 1,70,664

* In Mizoram, 15 special polling booths have been set up in Kanhmun at Mizoram-Tripura border for Bru (Reang) refugees who are living in camps in Tripura.

* Mizoram also holds the unique distinction among the parliamentary constituencies with 100 per cent voters having Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC).

* 52 per cent voters in Meghalaya are women.

* Over 142,054,000 voters to decide fate of 1,279 candidates in the 91 constituencies.&nbsp;

* 7,764 'third gender' voters eligible to cast ballots

* Voting for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th phase of the elections will take place on April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively.

* The counting of votes to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha will take place on May 23.

Polling is underway Thursday for the first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Here are some interesting facts about phase one. * Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories.

Polling is underway Thursday for the first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Here are some interesting facts about phase one. * Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories. * Total number of polling stations: 1,70,664 * In Mizoram, 15 special polling booths have been set up in Kanhmun at Mizoram-Tripura border for Bru (Reang) refugees who are living in camps in Tripura. * Mizoram also holds the unique distinction among the parliamentary constituencies with 100 per cent voters having Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC). * 52 per cent voters in Meghalaya are women. * Over 142,054,000 voters to decide fate of 1,279 candidates in the 91 constituencies. * 7,764 'third gender' voters eligible to cast ballots * Voting for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th phase of the elections will take place on April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively. * The counting of votes to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha will take place on May 23.

Key facts about phase-I of Lok Sabha polls

As World's third largest democracy Indonesia is all set to go to the polls on 17th April, Presidential candidates Joko Widodo and Prabowo Subianto are ready to encounter each other yet again to win the tough battle of 2019 election.

Indonesia presidential election: Prabowo Subianto vs Joko Widodo

Israel heading for elections today

In this video watch Daniele Pagani in conversation with defence analyst Anna Aronheim.

Israel Elections 2019: In conversation with Anna Aronheim

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media.

At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate.

So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars.&nbsp;

No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty?

We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party.

In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state.&nbsp;

Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.”&nbsp;

Touche.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-main-bhi-chowkidar-vs-chowkidar-chor-hai-who-is-winning-2732122">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore.

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media. At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate. So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars. No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty? We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party. In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state. Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.” Touche. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

'Main bhi chowkidar' vs 'Chowkidar chor hai': Who is winning?

Turnout in North Korea's single-candidate elections hit 99.99 per cent this year, state media said Tuesday -- up from a seemingly unimprovable 99.97 per cent the last time they were held.

With participation figures that Western democracies would never achieve, millions of North Koreans head to nationwide polls every five years to elect the rubber-stamp legislature known as the Supreme People's Assembly.

But with only one approved name on each voting slip in the isolated country, which is ruled with an iron grip by Kim Jong Un's Workers' Party, the result is never in doubt.

This year's turnout fell just short of 100 per cent as those "abroad or working in oceans" were unable to take part, the North's official KCNA news agency reported.

Like in 2014, results for the nationwide election held at the weekend came in 100 per cent in favour of all named candidates.

"All the electors participated as one in the election to cement our people's power as firm as a rock," KCNA said, citing a report released by the Central Election Committee.

"One hundred per cent of them cast their ballots for the candidates for deputies to the SPA registered in relevant constituencies," it added.

A detailed list of the 687 candidates was not immediately available.

But leader Kim's younger sister and close aide Kim Yo Jong was among the newly elected according to the South's Yonhap news agency, citing Pyongyang state media.

Critics say the North's election -- with its total absence of electoral competition -- is largely a political rite for enabling the authorities to claim a mandate from the people while reinforcing loyalty to the government and social unity.&nbsp;

Turnout in North Korea's single-candidate elections hit 99.99 per cent this year, state media said Tuesday -- up from a seemingly unimprovable 99.97 per cent the last time they were held.

Turnout in North Korea's single-candidate elections hit 99.99 per cent this year, state media said Tuesday -- up from a seemingly unimprovable 99.97 per cent the last time they were held. With participation figures that Western democracies would never achieve, millions of North Koreans head to nationwide polls every five years to elect the rubber-stamp legislature known as the Supreme People's Assembly. But with only one approved name on each voting slip in the isolated country, which is ruled with an iron grip by Kim Jong Un's Workers' Party, the result is never in doubt. This year's turnout fell just short of 100 per cent as those "abroad or working in oceans" were unable to take part, the North's official KCNA news agency reported. Like in 2014, results for the nationwide election held at the weekend came in 100 per cent in favour of all named candidates. "All the electors participated as one in the election to cement our people's power as firm as a rock," KCNA said, citing a report released by the Central Election Committee. "One hundred per cent of them cast their ballots for the candidates for deputies to the SPA registered in relevant constituencies," it added. A detailed list of the 687 candidates was not immediately available. But leader Kim's younger sister and close aide Kim Yo Jong was among the newly elected according to the South's Yonhap news agency, citing Pyongyang state media. Critics say the North's election -- with its total absence of electoral competition -- is largely a political rite for enabling the authorities to claim a mandate from the people while reinforcing loyalty to the government and social unity.

North Korea election sees 99.99% turnout: State Media

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

"They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added.

"The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said.

Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him.

"But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said.

Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind".

For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief.

"This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said.

"They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president.

"For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind.

"What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said.

The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said.

Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said.

"This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said.

Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him. "They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added. "The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said. Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him. "But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said. Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind". For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief. "This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said. "They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president. "For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind. "What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said. The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said. Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said. "This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said. Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.

Opposition wants to strike Modi, I want to strike terror: PM

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday hit out at opposition parties, alleging they "raised doubts" on the courage of the armed forces and their demand for proof of the IAF airstrike brought a "smile on Pakistan's face".

He said these parties should "keep quiet" if they were unable to appreciate what Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the country's armed forces had achieved through the air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot.

Praising the PM's leadership, Shah claimed Modi went about his work routinely even as he thought up a plan to punish the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack on February 14 which killed 40 CRPF personnel.

He claimed Modi made the country understand what "zero tolerance" for terror meant by ordering the surgical strike and air strike.

"Opposition leaders do not know what happened. Mamata di asks for proof. Rahul baba says it is being politicised. Akhilesh asks for a probe. Be ashamed that your statements have brought a smile on Pakistan's face," Shah said.

"Pakistan smiled only after the press conferences of the opposition leaders where they raised questions on the courage of the armed forces," Shah claimed.

"We can understand that you do not have the courage of Modi ji, but if you cannot support and praise what Modi ji and the armed forces did, then at least keep quiet," he said.

"After the Pulwama attack, people said surgical strike was not possible, as army could not go (to bust terror camps). Modiji, while going about his routine work quietly, decided and planned (the counterattack) and our brave air force jawans killed hundreds of terrorists in an air strike and came back safely," he said.

He said with these strikes on terror camps, India has become only the third country in the world after the US and Israel to avenge attacks on its armed forces personnel.

"Now the world accepts that India cannot be taken lightly. The entire world accepts that one cannot tamper with India's borders. The entire world now accepts that it is not easy to touch Indian soldiers. They will get the response for a bullet with a cannon," he said.

Addressing a gathering of PM's Modh Vanik community here, Shah said Modi had come from a humble background and had become the PM of the world's largest democracy.

He said while Modi "does not believe in casteism", the fact remains that he comes from the same community which has made its presence felt across the country through sheer hard work and good behaviour.

Shah said he knew Modi since 1980, when the latter was an unknown political entity to most, and claimed the PM has worked tirelessly to ensure ordinary workers like him (Shah) rose in the party.

"Modi ji does not believe in casteism. Ever since he accepted public life, he always worked to remove the pollution of caste from politics. But it a fact that Modi ji also comes from the same community," he told the gathering.

Shah said the Modi government took several decisions to promote small businesses like waiving GST for firms with a turnover of up to Rs 40 lakh.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday hit out at opposition parties, alleging they "raised doubts" on the courage of the armed forces and their demand for proof of the IAF airstrike brought a "smile on Pakistan's face".

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday hit out at opposition parties, alleging they "raised doubts" on the courage of the armed forces and their demand for proof of the IAF airstrike brought a "smile on Pakistan's face". He said these parties should "keep quiet" if they were unable to appreciate what Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the country's armed forces had achieved through the air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot. Praising the PM's leadership, Shah claimed Modi went about his work routinely even as he thought up a plan to punish the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack on February 14 which killed 40 CRPF personnel. He claimed Modi made the country understand what "zero tolerance" for terror meant by ordering the surgical strike and air strike. "Opposition leaders do not know what happened. Mamata di asks for proof. Rahul baba says it is being politicised. Akhilesh asks for a probe. Be ashamed that your statements have brought a smile on Pakistan's face," Shah said. "Pakistan smiled only after the press conferences of the opposition leaders where they raised questions on the courage of the armed forces," Shah claimed. "We can understand that you do not have the courage of Modi ji, but if you cannot support and praise what Modi ji and the armed forces did, then at least keep quiet," he said. "After the Pulwama attack, people said surgical strike was not possible, as army could not go (to bust terror camps). Modiji, while going about his routine work quietly, decided and planned (the counterattack) and our brave air force jawans killed hundreds of terrorists in an air strike and came back safely," he said. He said with these strikes on terror camps, India has become only the third country in the world after the US and Israel to avenge attacks on its armed forces personnel. "Now the world accepts that India cannot be taken lightly. The entire world accepts that one cannot tamper with India's borders. The entire world now accepts that it is not easy to touch Indian soldiers. They will get the response for a bullet with a cannon," he said. Addressing a gathering of PM's Modh Vanik community here, Shah said Modi had come from a humble background and had become the PM of the world's largest democracy. He said while Modi "does not believe in casteism", the fact remains that he comes from the same community which has made its presence felt across the country through sheer hard work and good behaviour. Shah said he knew Modi since 1980, when the latter was an unknown political entity to most, and claimed the PM has worked tirelessly to ensure ordinary workers like him (Shah) rose in the party. "Modi ji does not believe in casteism. Ever since he accepted public life, he always worked to remove the pollution of caste from politics. But it a fact that Modi ji also comes from the same community," he told the gathering. Shah said the Modi government took several decisions to promote small businesses like waiving GST for firms with a turnover of up to Rs 40 lakh.

Opposition's 'proof, probe' talk on air strike made Pakistan smile, claims Amit Shah

Bihar Chief Minister<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-nitish-kumar-share-stage-after-9-years-both-remember-pulwama-martyrs-at-sankalp-rally-200875"> Nitish Kumar and NDA leaders from Bihar </a>Sunday resolved to win all the 40 Lok Sabha seats from the state in order to bring back Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of the country.

"People have turned up at the rally in very large numbers. The Lok Sabha polls are impending...I want to assure you 'Pradhan Mantri jee' (Prime Minister) that we will win 40 out of 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the general elections. "This is our Sankalp (resolve)," Kumar said while addressing NDAs 'Sankalp' rally at Gandhi Maidan in Patna.

Kumar also congratulated the Prime Minister, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force for taking action against terror outfits and those who promote terrorism.

Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot, deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing over 40 soldiers.&nbsp;

There is no question of compromising on the issue of terrorism, he said, adding that the government would ensure all possible and necessary steps to counter it.

He also praised the Modi government and the armed forces for forcing Pakistan to release Wing Commander Abhinandan Vardhaman.

Union ministers Ram Vilas Paswan, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Radha Mohan Singh, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, Bihar BJP in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai, Bihar JD(U) chief Bashishtha Narayan Singh, Bihar minister and state president of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) Pashupati Kumar Paras, ministers Mangal Pandey, Nand Kishore Yadav and a host of other NDA leaders also attended the 'Sankalp rally'.

The weather was initially sunny but later turned out to be rainy. It continued to drizzle throughout the PM's speech.

Kumar also assured the PM that work on providing toilet facility to every household in the state will be completed by October 2, 2019, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

PM Modi, later during his speech, appreciated Nitish Kumar for his resolve to complete the construction of toilets by October 2.

Earlier, people attending the rally started raising slogans as they were getting impatient to hear the PM.

Invoking 'seven social sins' as enumerated by Mahatma Gandhi, Kumar apparently attacked the opposition RJD saying there are people who amassed properties after coming to power, though Mahatma Gandhi termed "acquiring assets without work as sin".

Without naming anyone, Kumar said, "What we did after coming to power and what they did after coming to power is known to people."

Kumar said people should be aware of such persons who are more interested in getting 'mewa' (power, position and money) instead of doing 'sewa' (service).

Lauding the work done by both the NDA governments at the Centre and in the state, the CM enumerated various schemes and projects meant for the welfare of the poor.

Giving LPG connections under the Ujjwala scheme, Rs 5 lakh medical cover to 10.74 crore families as identified on the basis of Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data, PM-KISAN scheme which envisage Rs 6,000 per year as assistance to the farmers, are among the few schemes which Kumar named besides enumerating his much talked about 'Saat Nischay' scheme and 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections of unreserved category after getting the necessary amendments passed by the state legislature.

The central government has been quite helpful and cooperative in Bihar's development, he said.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and NDA leaders from Bihar Sunday resolved to win all the 40 Lok Sabha seats from the state in order to bring back Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of the country.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and NDA leaders from Bihar Sunday resolved to win all the 40 Lok Sabha seats from the state in order to bring back Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of the country. "People have turned up at the rally in very large numbers. The Lok Sabha polls are impending...I want to assure you 'Pradhan Mantri jee' (Prime Minister) that we will win 40 out of 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the general elections. "This is our Sankalp (resolve)," Kumar said while addressing NDAs 'Sankalp' rally at Gandhi Maidan in Patna. Kumar also congratulated the Prime Minister, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force for taking action against terror outfits and those who promote terrorism. Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot, deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing over 40 soldiers. There is no question of compromising on the issue of terrorism, he said, adding that the government would ensure all possible and necessary steps to counter it. He also praised the Modi government and the armed forces for forcing Pakistan to release Wing Commander Abhinandan Vardhaman. Union ministers Ram Vilas Paswan, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Radha Mohan Singh, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, Bihar BJP in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai, Bihar JD(U) chief Bashishtha Narayan Singh, Bihar minister and state president of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) Pashupati Kumar Paras, ministers Mangal Pandey, Nand Kishore Yadav and a host of other NDA leaders also attended the 'Sankalp rally'. The weather was initially sunny but later turned out to be rainy. It continued to drizzle throughout the PM's speech. Kumar also assured the PM that work on providing toilet facility to every household in the state will be completed by October 2, 2019, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. PM Modi, later during his speech, appreciated Nitish Kumar for his resolve to complete the construction of toilets by October 2. Earlier, people attending the rally started raising slogans as they were getting impatient to hear the PM. Invoking 'seven social sins' as enumerated by Mahatma Gandhi, Kumar apparently attacked the opposition RJD saying there are people who amassed properties after coming to power, though Mahatma Gandhi termed "acquiring assets without work as sin". Without naming anyone, Kumar said, "What we did after coming to power and what they did after coming to power is known to people." Kumar said people should be aware of such persons who are more interested in getting 'mewa' (power, position and money) instead of doing 'sewa' (service). Lauding the work done by both the NDA governments at the Centre and in the state, the CM enumerated various schemes and projects meant for the welfare of the poor. Giving LPG connections under the Ujjwala scheme, Rs 5 lakh medical cover to 10.74 crore families as identified on the basis of Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data, PM-KISAN scheme which envisage Rs 6,000 per year as assistance to the farmers, are among the few schemes which Kumar named besides enumerating his much talked about 'Saat Nischay' scheme and 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections of unreserved category after getting the necessary amendments passed by the state legislature. The central government has been quite helpful and cooperative in Bihar's development, he said.

Nitish Kumar assures PM of winning all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar

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