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2019 will not be a repeat of 1996, BJP will form the next govt under Modi: Nitin Gadkari to WION

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East.&nbsp;

While recently, Gambhir has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/gautam-gambhir-demands-proofs-after-aaps-atishi-accuses-him-of-distributing-pamphlets-against-her-217298">accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks</a> against AAP opponent Atishi.&nbsp;

In reply to the accusation, Gambhir sent a defamation notice to Atishi, Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him.&nbsp;

Now, former cricketer VVS Laxman and spinner Harbhajan Singh have come forward and offered their support to Gambhir.&nbsp;

Laxman tweeted, "Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women."

On the other hand, Harbhajan wrote "I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this."

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I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1126731377796239362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to ANI, Gambhir said he would retire from politics the day allegations against him are proven.

"If he has proof, then he must bring it today. My resignation would be written by Arvind Kejriwal and I will sign it publicly," said Gambhir.

"If they have proof I am ready to take retirement from politics today itself. I will take retirement on May 23 if they come with proof but what if he doesn't turn up with proof? Will he resign as Delhi Chief Minister and retire from politics?" he asked.

Gambhir went on to say that it is because of people like Kejriwal that "good" people don't enter politics.

"You know why good people avoid entering politics? It is because of people like Arvind Kejriwal. They know they have to fight people like Arvind Kejriwal who can stoop to any low just for the sake of winning elections," he said.

Delhi, which has seven Lok Sabha seats at stake, will go to polls on May 12.&nbsp;

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East.

Within a few weeks after entering the political arena, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has found himself at the centre of a controversy. The Bhartiya Janta Party candidate is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Delhi East. While recently, Gambhir has been accused of circulating pamphlets with derogatory and casteist remarks against AAP opponent Atishi. In reply to the accusation, Gambhir sent a defamation notice to Atishi, Kejriwal, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, demanding an unconditional apology for making "defamatory" comments against him. Now, former cricketer VVS Laxman and spinner Harbhajan Singh have come forward and offered their support to Gambhir. Laxman tweeted, "Shocked to hear about yesterday's developments. Having known @GautamGambhir for nearly 2 decades, I can vouch for his integrity, character and the respect he has for women." On the other hand, Harbhajan wrote "I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this." I am shocked to note yesterday’s events involving @GautamGambhir. I know him well and he can never talk ill for any woman. Whether he wins or loses is another matter but the man is above all this — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) May 10, 2019 × Speaking to ANI, Gambhir said he would retire from politics the day allegations against him are proven. "If he has proof, then he must bring it today. My resignation would be written by Arvind Kejriwal and I will sign it publicly," said Gambhir. "If they have proof I am ready to take retirement from politics today itself. I will take retirement on May 23 if they come with proof but what if he doesn't turn up with proof? Will he resign as Delhi Chief Minister and retire from politics?" he asked. Gambhir went on to say that it is because of people like Kejriwal that "good" people don't enter politics. "You know why good people avoid entering politics? It is because of people like Arvind Kejriwal. They know they have to fight people like Arvind Kejriwal who can stoop to any low just for the sake of winning elections," he said. Delhi, which has seven Lok Sabha seats at stake, will go to polls on May 12.

'He is above all this': Harbhajan Singh and VVS Laxman vouch for Gautam Gambhir in pamphlet row

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power.

The AAP national convenor's attack, during a wide-ranging interview to PTI, comes two days ahead of elections in Delhi, which is witnessing a three-cornered contest as talks for an alliance between the Congress and the AAP did not fructify.

"Congress is harming SP-BSP alliance in UP, Left in Kerala, TMC in West Bengal, TDP in Andhra and AAP in Delhi..If Narendra Modi comes back to power, Rahul Gandhi will only be responsible," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

"It is appearing as if the Congress is fighting the polls against opposition parties and not against the BJP. The Congress is acting as a spoilsport," he added.

The Delhi chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "totally failed" in delivering anything in any of the key sectors and that is why he has been resorting to "fake nationalism".

"Modi-ji's nationalism is fake. It dangerous for the country," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

"He is using the armed forces to get votes as he does not have any work to show," he alleged.

The AAP national convenor, who along with Anna Hazare led a massive anti-graft agitation against UPA II between 2011 and 2013, said Manmohan Singh as prime minister was a thousand times better than Modi.

Kejriwal said the BJP is not going to retain power.

"Our only aim is to stop Modi and Shah from coming back to power. We will support anyone other than the duo," he added.

He said his party will perform well in the national capital.

"A month back, I thought it will be a fierce fight. But the situation changed dramatically in the last 10 days. I am witnessing a situation similar to the atmosphere when we got 67 seats in 2015. I will not be surprised if we get all seven seats," he said.

Kejriwal said the BJP is seeking vote in the name of Modi but the AAP is banking on its work in the fields of education, health and water supply and lower electricity tariff.

"Modi-ji cannot say I made schools, hospitals, brought down electricity tariff, ensured drinking water supply. He failed in every sector. He has not delivered anything," he alleged.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused Rahul Gandhi of harming the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Left in Kerala, the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Aam Aadmi Party in the national capital, saying the Congress chief will be responsible if Narendra Modi comes back to power. The AAP national convenor's attack, during a wide-ranging interview to PTI, comes two days ahead of elections in Delhi, which is witnessing a three-cornered contest as talks for an alliance between the Congress and the AAP did not fructify. "Congress is harming SP-BSP alliance in UP, Left in Kerala, TMC in West Bengal, TDP in Andhra and AAP in Delhi..If Narendra Modi comes back to power, Rahul Gandhi will only be responsible," Kejriwal said. "It is appearing as if the Congress is fighting the polls against opposition parties and not against the BJP. The Congress is acting as a spoilsport," he added. The Delhi chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "totally failed" in delivering anything in any of the key sectors and that is why he has been resorting to "fake nationalism". "Modi-ji's nationalism is fake. It dangerous for the country," Kejriwal said. "He is using the armed forces to get votes as he does not have any work to show," he alleged. The AAP national convenor, who along with Anna Hazare led a massive anti-graft agitation against UPA II between 2011 and 2013, said Manmohan Singh as prime minister was a thousand times better than Modi. Kejriwal said the BJP is not going to retain power. "Our only aim is to stop Modi and Shah from coming back to power. We will support anyone other than the duo," he added. He said his party will perform well in the national capital. "A month back, I thought it will be a fierce fight. But the situation changed dramatically in the last 10 days. I am witnessing a situation similar to the atmosphere when we got 67 seats in 2015. I will not be surprised if we get all seven seats," he said. Kejriwal said the BJP is seeking vote in the name of Modi but the AAP is banking on its work in the fields of education, health and water supply and lower electricity tariff. "Modi-ji cannot say I made schools, hospitals, brought down electricity tariff, ensured drinking water supply. He failed in every sector. He has not delivered anything," he alleged.

Rahul Gandhi responsible if Modi comes back to power, Congress harming opposition: Kejriwal

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-to-participate-in-mamatas-poll-rallies-216723&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio0eWnzZDiAhU_4nMBHXq4AIIQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QLL5IjABggEooEjN3FCVT"> N Chandrababu Naidu</a> have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/insult-to-indias-constitution-pm-modi-on-mamata-banerjees-do-not-consider-him-pm-remark-217332&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-ouu5zZDiAhUi73MBHTegDVIQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw09G2kv8S3bnT40rycl5ZkQ"> Mamata Banerjee</a> in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

The meeting between Banerjee and Naidu took place for over 15 minutes late Thursday evening, according to a well-placed source in the Trinamool Congress.

The two leaders met and spoke about the future plans of the Mahagatbandhan. Naidu and Didi (Banerjee) also discussed the TDP leaders meeting with Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi Wednesday, a senior TMC member told PTI.

On whether Banerjee will be attending the proposed meeting of the opposition parties likely to be held on May 21, the TMC leader said that the date of the meeting was yet not decided.

It's not decided that the meeting will be held on May 21... It seems that it might be deferred by a couple of days and take place after May 23. Didi Maybe taking part in it, he said.

Naidu and Banerjee are believed to have also talked about the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue and the probable voting percentage in the so far held five phases of polling in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, the TMC leader said.

Earlier, Naidu joined Banerjee at a campaign meeting of TMC at Kharagpur on Thursday where he spoke high about her and urged people to vote for Trinamool to oust the BJP from the power.

Later, Naidu participated and delivered a speech for TMC North Kolkata Lok Sabha constituency candidate Sudip Bandyopadhyay at Sithi in the city. Banerjee, who has floated the idea of a federal front of regional parties, has been playing an important role for unity of the anti-BJP bloc.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu have held a closed-door discussion with his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee in Kharagpur on future plans of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). The meeting between Banerjee and Naidu took place for over 15 minutes late Thursday evening, according to a well-placed source in the Trinamool Congress. The two leaders met and spoke about the future plans of the Mahagatbandhan. Naidu and Didi (Banerjee) also discussed the TDP leaders meeting with Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi Wednesday, a senior TMC member told PTI. On whether Banerjee will be attending the proposed meeting of the opposition parties likely to be held on May 21, the TMC leader said that the date of the meeting was yet not decided. It's not decided that the meeting will be held on May 21... It seems that it might be deferred by a couple of days and take place after May 23. Didi Maybe taking part in it, he said. Naidu and Banerjee are believed to have also talked about the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue and the probable voting percentage in the so far held five phases of polling in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, the TMC leader said. Earlier, Naidu joined Banerjee at a campaign meeting of TMC at Kharagpur on Thursday where he spoke high about her and urged people to vote for Trinamool to oust the BJP from the power. Later, Naidu participated and delivered a speech for TMC North Kolkata Lok Sabha constituency candidate Sudip Bandyopadhyay at Sithi in the city. Banerjee, who has floated the idea of a federal front of regional parties, has been playing an important role for unity of the anti-BJP bloc.

Mamata Banerjee, Chandrababu Naidu hold closed door meeting on Mahagathbandhan

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years.

Addressing an election meeting here, she also hit out at Modi, claiming that he talks about Pakistan and other "absurd" issues, but never about the problems of the people. The Congress general secretary termed the present BJP government 'ahankari' (egotistical), alleging that it spreads anger, hatred and negativity.

She alleged that when farmers of a number of states, including MP, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, went to Delhi for protests, the Prime Minister did not come out of his bungalow for five minutes to hear their grievances.

"Now they are highlighting 'Kisan samman yojna' and promising Rs 6,000 per year. When Congress asked the government to waive loans of farmers, it was said that there is no money in the economy.&nbsp;

"If you do not have money, how were Rs 550 thousand crores of big industrialists waived. Where does the insurance money of farmers go? While you (farmers) were suffering, companies of PM's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in past five years," Priyanka Gandhi alleged.

Claiming that the Congress government had waived loans in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, she said, "When intentions are good loan waiver starts in three days, but when they are bad 'ahankari' leader talks big from dais and leaves." She said there were false propaganda and negativity in politics but people should never forget their power.&nbsp;

"We are here because of you (people). You all should not forget your power. Don't make (spreading) dirtiness and negativity in politics your habit and make a change. Democracy has given you power," Priyanka Gandhi said&nbsp;

"When he (PM) comes before you he never talks about your problems. He talks of the past, Pakistan and other absurd issues. He did a world tour...Visited Pakistan ate 'biryani' there, visited Japan and played 'dhol', went to the US, Europe and other countries, but never to a single village in his parliamentary constituency to know about the real problems of the people," Priyanka Gandhi claimed.

On the stray cattle menace, she said the government made enclosures for stray animals after seeing the anger of farmers during elections. "But there is no arrangement for fodder and water there. Due to their policies, 12,000 farmers have committed suicide due to loans in the past five years," Priyanka Gandhi said.

She claimed that the BJP government's promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to every citizen was not met and GST and demonetisation ruined traders. Highlighting her party's manifesto, the Congress leader said that her party will make all sections of the society will stand on their own and the poor will be given Rs 72,000 per year and the 24 lakh vacant government jobs will be filled by March 2020.

She said that due to the faulty policies of the BJP, there was a loss of five crore jobs and promised that her government would give 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament so that their voice can be heard.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Friday alleged that while farmers were suffering, Rs 5,50,000 crore of big industrialists were waived by the BJP government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in last five years. Addressing an election meeting here, she also hit out at Modi, claiming that he talks about Pakistan and other "absurd" issues, but never about the problems of the people. The Congress general secretary termed the present BJP government 'ahankari' (egotistical), alleging that it spreads anger, hatred and negativity. She alleged that when farmers of a number of states, including MP, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, went to Delhi for protests, the Prime Minister did not come out of his bungalow for five minutes to hear their grievances. "Now they are highlighting 'Kisan samman yojna' and promising Rs 6,000 per year. When Congress asked the government to waive loans of farmers, it was said that there is no money in the economy. "If you do not have money, how were Rs 550 thousand crores of big industrialists waived. Where does the insurance money of farmers go? While you (farmers) were suffering, companies of PM's friends recorded profits of Rs 10,000 crore in past five years," Priyanka Gandhi alleged. Claiming that the Congress government had waived loans in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, she said, "When intentions are good loan waiver starts in three days, but when they are bad 'ahankari' leader talks big from dais and leaves." She said there were false propaganda and negativity in politics but people should never forget their power. "We are here because of you (people). You all should not forget your power. Don't make (spreading) dirtiness and negativity in politics your habit and make a change. Democracy has given you power," Priyanka Gandhi said "When he (PM) comes before you he never talks about your problems. He talks of the past, Pakistan and other absurd issues. He did a world tour...Visited Pakistan ate 'biryani' there, visited Japan and played 'dhol', went to the US, Europe and other countries, but never to a single village in his parliamentary constituency to know about the real problems of the people," Priyanka Gandhi claimed. On the stray cattle menace, she said the government made enclosures for stray animals after seeing the anger of farmers during elections. "But there is no arrangement for fodder and water there. Due to their policies, 12,000 farmers have committed suicide due to loans in the past five years," Priyanka Gandhi said. She claimed that the BJP government's promise of giving Rs 15 lakh to every citizen was not met and GST and demonetisation ruined traders. Highlighting her party's manifesto, the Congress leader said that her party will make all sections of the society will stand on their own and the poor will be given Rs 72,000 per year and the 24 lakh vacant government jobs will be filled by March 2020. She said that due to the faulty policies of the BJP, there was a loss of five crore jobs and promised that her government would give 33 per cent reservation to women in Parliament so that their voice can be heard.

PM Modi talks about Pakistan, other 'absurd' issues but never about problems of people: Priyanka

Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/man-who-attacked-delhi-cm-kejriwal-expresses-regret-says-dont-know-why-i-slapped-him-217367&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj69fAxZDiAhXJgI8KHeQ3AuUQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0qmtRx8bFQFYlp3Y0JcFdi">Arvind Kejriwal </a>on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister.

He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister. "Please think about that before voting," he tweeted.

With his tweet, he also tagged a post of a polling agency tracking Indian electoral trends which claimed<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/only-pm-modi-can-ensure-national-security-amit-shah-217248&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVsubNxZDiAhXJvI8KHUU5CrIQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KMMIuXWrRbXnmxfRdwDRS"> Amit Shah</a> is positioning himself for the role of the home minister if Modi returns, and said ex-Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Virmani and former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan can make a good finance minister.

Delhi goes to polls this Sunday in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections and the results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister. He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said if the BJP comes back to power then the party president Amit Shah would be the Union home minister. He said in a tweet people should think what will happen to a country who has Shah as the home minister. "Please think about that before voting," he tweeted. With his tweet, he also tagged a post of a polling agency tracking Indian electoral trends which claimed Amit Shah is positioning himself for the role of the home minister if Modi returns, and said ex-Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Virmani and former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan can make a good finance minister. Delhi goes to polls this Sunday in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections and the results will be declared on May 23.

Amit Shah will be home minister if BJP returns to power: Arvind Kejriwal

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/no-party-will-get-majority-congress-will-forge-alliance-for-upa-plus-plus-govt-jyotiraditya-scindia-216994&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjjmYqewpDiAhUE63MBHbrWB3wQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rYga4N_H066-djHjbILwL">Jyotiraditya Scindia</a>, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state.&nbsp;

The Congress general secretary, in charge of the party's affairs for Uttar Pradesh (West), said the strategy was to build the party in the state and the results will show that fighting the elections on its own strength was the right decision.

After spending some time in Uttar Pradesh that sends 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Scindia is now concentrating on the Guna parliamentary constituency in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-madhya-pradesh-village-threatens-to-boycott-polls-if-water-shortage-issue-not-resolved-216187&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiR_ueRwpDiAhVM63MBHVZxBTgQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3cuJ15OUlvYhv-j6QTBw6U">Madhya Pradesh </a>as he seeks a mandate for a fifth term.&nbsp;

"This time we have decided to fight on our own strength in Uttar Pradesh and build the party in the state and you will see based on the results in UP that probably it was the right decision keeping the long term interests of the party in mind," Scindia told PTI in an interview.&nbsp;

"We will do a much better job this time around for the whole of UP... Let the voters decide," the 48-year-old added. He sidestepped a question on whether the BSP-SP-RLD 'mahagathbandhan' will harm the Congress' prospects in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

"I think every party will emerge wherever it is the strongest. So, it's not a question of the 'mahagathbandhan' harming prospects of Congress party or vice versa. It really depends on which party has the strongest candidate and the strongest organisation, " he said.&nbsp;Politics, Scindia said, is the art of possibilities.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, everything is possible in politics and you must persevere and you must make an effort. Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don't," the four-time MP said.&nbsp; On what will happen after May 23 (day of counting), he said we will see once the chips fall.&nbsp;

"It is too hypothetical to tell you what will happen."&nbsp;In 2014, the BJP walked away with 71 of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. The Congress won two seats, Apna Dal two and Samajwadi Party five seats.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is the Congress general secretary in-charge for UP (East).&nbsp;Scindia said the recently appointed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh had done a good job in delivering on pre-poll promises.&nbsp;

"The MP government has done an extremely terrific job. In a short period of time, they have accomplished so much. From farm loans waiver to increase the amount given to girls who are getting married, increasing pension amount, reducing electricity bills and others. Some very monumental decisions that were promised by our party before the polls are now in execution mode," he said.&nbsp;

Asked about reports on a spate of power cuts in Madhya Pradesh after the Kamal Nath-led government took over, Scindia said they are dealing with the legacy of the previous BJP government of the state and the promise of farm loan waiver is being executed properly.&nbsp;

"It is a legacy (electricity issue) they (BJP) have left us which we will have to fix. No one has a magic wand that will fix everything in 50 days. As far as farm loan waiver is concerned, what they (BJP) have not been able to do in 15 years we have done in 20 days... 27 lakh farmers have received it and balance will get as soon as the model code of conduct is removed," he said.&nbsp;

The Congress had promised before the 2018 assembly polls in the state that bank loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh will be waived after the Congress takes charge.&nbsp;Queried on the prospects of him being projected as the possible chief minister of the state during the elections last year, Scindia said he never hankered for a post.&nbsp;

"My pursuit in life is not power or position. My pursuit in life is the goal of development and progress for my people. For me, position and power are not important. Service is important.&nbsp;"Therefore, when my party has taken a decision that decision for me is paramount," Scindia said.

The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003, unseated the Shivraj Singh Chouhan led government in November last year by winning 114 seats while the BJP secured 109.

The state has 29 Lok Sabha seats and in the last general elections, it won a total of 27 seats.&nbsp;The Congress won one more seat in a bypoll later that was held after the death of the sitting BJP MP from Ratlam.&nbsp;

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state.

The Congress decided to go it alone in Uttar Pradesh keeping its "long-term interests" in mind, says senior leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, exuding confidence that the party will do much better than in 2014 in the state. The Congress general secretary, in charge of the party's affairs for Uttar Pradesh (West), said the strategy was to build the party in the state and the results will show that fighting the elections on its own strength was the right decision. After spending some time in Uttar Pradesh that sends 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Scindia is now concentrating on the Guna parliamentary constituency in Madhya Pradesh as he seeks a mandate for a fifth term. "This time we have decided to fight on our own strength in Uttar Pradesh and build the party in the state and you will see based on the results in UP that probably it was the right decision keeping the long term interests of the party in mind," Scindia told PTI in an interview. "We will do a much better job this time around for the whole of UP... Let the voters decide," the 48-year-old added. He sidestepped a question on whether the BSP-SP-RLD 'mahagathbandhan' will harm the Congress' prospects in Uttar Pradesh. "I think every party will emerge wherever it is the strongest. So, it's not a question of the 'mahagathbandhan' harming prospects of Congress party or vice versa. It really depends on which party has the strongest candidate and the strongest organisation, " he said. Politics, Scindia said, is the art of possibilities. "At the end of the day, everything is possible in politics and you must persevere and you must make an effort. Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don't," the four-time MP said. On what will happen after May 23 (day of counting), he said we will see once the chips fall. "It is too hypothetical to tell you what will happen." In 2014, the BJP walked away with 71 of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. The Congress won two seats, Apna Dal two and Samajwadi Party five seats. Congress president Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is the Congress general secretary in-charge for UP (East). Scindia said the recently appointed Congress government in Madhya Pradesh had done a good job in delivering on pre-poll promises. "The MP government has done an extremely terrific job. In a short period of time, they have accomplished so much. From farm loans waiver to increase the amount given to girls who are getting married, increasing pension amount, reducing electricity bills and others. Some very monumental decisions that were promised by our party before the polls are now in execution mode," he said. Asked about reports on a spate of power cuts in Madhya Pradesh after the Kamal Nath-led government took over, Scindia said they are dealing with the legacy of the previous BJP government of the state and the promise of farm loan waiver is being executed properly. "It is a legacy (electricity issue) they (BJP) have left us which we will have to fix. No one has a magic wand that will fix everything in 50 days. As far as farm loan waiver is concerned, what they (BJP) have not been able to do in 15 years we have done in 20 days... 27 lakh farmers have received it and balance will get as soon as the model code of conduct is removed," he said. The Congress had promised before the 2018 assembly polls in the state that bank loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh will be waived after the Congress takes charge. Queried on the prospects of him being projected as the possible chief minister of the state during the elections last year, Scindia said he never hankered for a post. "My pursuit in life is not power or position. My pursuit in life is the goal of development and progress for my people. For me, position and power are not important. Service is important. "Therefore, when my party has taken a decision that decision for me is paramount," Scindia said. The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003, unseated the Shivraj Singh Chouhan led government in November last year by winning 114 seats while the BJP secured 109. The state has 29 Lok Sabha seats and in the last general elections, it won a total of 27 seats. The Congress won one more seat in a bypoll later that was held after the death of the sitting BJP MP from Ratlam.

Going alone in UP for Congress's long-term interest, will do a good job this time: Scindia

The leaders of opposition parties are reportedly contemplating a meeting between May 19 (the last phase of polling) and May 23 (when the results will be announced). The meeting will be held to decide the Prime Ministerial candidate of the national-level alliance - 'Mahagathbandhan'.

On the other hand, there has been another significant development, wherein Telangana Rashtra Samiti chief K Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) revived his efforts to stitch a&nbsp;'third front'.

KCR met CPM leader and Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan to discuss&nbsp;the&nbsp;'national political scenario'. 
 
Vijayan, after the meeting, said&nbsp;that neither Congress nor BJP will get absolute majority and regional parties will play a key role in the formation of government at the Centre.

However, it's unlikely that Vijayan will back the federal front as CPM is a foe of BJP.

Rao is also scheduled to meet DMK chief Stalin on May 13, though reports say Stalin has turned down his proposal owing to his campaign schedule for the May 19 by-polls.

It's to be noted that DMK has an alliance with the Congress in Tamil Nadu and Stalin has already extended his support to the 'Mahagathbandhan.&nbsp;

He had also recommended Rahul Gandhi's name as the Mahagathbandhan's Prime Ministerial candidate.

Also, Congress has, time and again, accused KCR as the B-team of NDA. According to the party, KCR has been trying to forge a third front to help BJP, in case, the saffron party falls short of numbers.

Furthermore, there are reports which suggest KCR has reportedly asked JD(S) leader and Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy to help him strike a deal with the Congress. The Karnataka chief minister appears as a facilitator here because JD(S) and Congress alliance is in power in Karnataka and the Mahagathbandhan too has Kumaraswamy's backing.

KCR has probably realised that any alliance without Congress party's participation won't work. Congress is the main opposition party and Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a credible and confident leader. 
 
It's worth noting here that in the Assembly elections, Congress pulled off stunning victories in the three Hindi heartland states under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi

It may be recalled that KCR's arch rival and Andhra Pradesh chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu, too has realised the importance of Congress party's presence in the Mahagathbandhan. 
 
Keeping aside three decades of rivalry, Naidu had reached out to Rahul Gandhi and both the leaders stressed the need to come together to 'save democracy'.

At the national level, most opposition parties have already extended their support to Mahagathbandhan to take on BJP. Congress too is likely to join this national-level alliance.&nbsp;

Last year, KCR had approached several party leaders not aligned with Congress and BJP, including Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy.

However, his effort had hit the speed bumps after most parties chose Mahagathbandhan over his federal front. So far, only YSR Congress chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy has openly backed him.

Mahagathbandhan, an idea floated by Mamata Banerjee and promoted by Chandrababu Naidu, also has the support of seasoned political leaders like Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah.

KCR's idea of a non-Congress front is too weak to take on BJP. And the only way he can garner the support of all like-minded opposition parties, to keep&nbsp;the BJP-led NDA out of power, is by seeking Congress's cooperation. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp; 
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The leaders of opposition parties are reportedly contemplating a meeting between May 19 (the last phase of polling) and May 23 (when the results will be announced).

The leaders of opposition parties are reportedly contemplating a meeting between May 19 (the last phase of polling) and May 23 (when the results will be announced). The meeting will be held to decide the Prime Ministerial candidate of the national-level alliance - 'Mahagathbandhan'. On the other hand, there has been another significant development, wherein Telangana Rashtra Samiti chief K Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) revived his efforts to stitch a 'third front'. KCR met CPM leader and Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan to discuss the 'national political scenario'. Vijayan, after the meeting, said that neither Congress nor BJP will get absolute majority and regional parties will play a key role in the formation of government at the Centre. However, it's unlikely that Vijayan will back the federal front as CPM is a foe of BJP. Rao is also scheduled to meet DMK chief Stalin on May 13, though reports say Stalin has turned down his proposal owing to his campaign schedule for the May 19 by-polls. It's to be noted that DMK has an alliance with the Congress in Tamil Nadu and Stalin has already extended his support to the 'Mahagathbandhan. He had also recommended Rahul Gandhi's name as the Mahagathbandhan's Prime Ministerial candidate. Also, Congress has, time and again, accused KCR as the B-team of NDA. According to the party, KCR has been trying to forge a third front to help BJP, in case, the saffron party falls short of numbers. Furthermore, there are reports which suggest KCR has reportedly asked JD(S) leader and Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy to help him strike a deal with the Congress. The Karnataka chief minister appears as a facilitator here because JD(S) and Congress alliance is in power in Karnataka and the Mahagathbandhan too has Kumaraswamy's backing. KCR has probably realised that any alliance without Congress party's participation won't work. Congress is the main opposition party and Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a credible and confident leader. It's worth noting here that in the Assembly elections, Congress pulled off stunning victories in the three Hindi heartland states under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi It may be recalled that KCR's arch rival and Andhra Pradesh chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu, too has realised the importance of Congress party's presence in the Mahagathbandhan. Keeping aside three decades of rivalry, Naidu had reached out to Rahul Gandhi and both the leaders stressed the need to come together to 'save democracy'. At the national level, most opposition parties have already extended their support to Mahagathbandhan to take on BJP. Congress too is likely to join this national-level alliance. Last year, KCR had approached several party leaders not aligned with Congress and BJP, including Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy. However, his effort had hit the speed bumps after most parties chose Mahagathbandhan over his federal front. So far, only YSR Congress chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy has openly backed him. Mahagathbandhan, an idea floated by Mamata Banerjee and promoted by Chandrababu Naidu, also has the support of seasoned political leaders like Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar and National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah. KCR's idea of a non-Congress front is too weak to take on BJP. And the only way he can garner the support of all like-minded opposition parties, to keep the BJP-led NDA out of power, is by seeking Congress's cooperation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

No takers for federal front: Has KCR realised his idea of a non-Congress front is too weak to take on BJP?

In Indian democracy, voting is a right. No matter what you think about it, it empowers millions of people across the country. It particularly empowers those who feel that their voice is not represented in the mainstream political discourse.

Recently, when the leader of Swaraj India, Yogendra Yadav, issued an appeal to voters in Delhi to vote for none of the above (NOTA), it led to a backlash. The absence of any political alternative and the cynicism of nothing changing even if you cast a vote, is what prompts NOTA.

It’s a tool of expressing dissatisfaction with the pool of candidates, a voice against the collective betrayal by the political class. But what if this voice isn’t heard?

The idea behind NOTA is that when people start exercising it, it should make the ruling class aware of their fallacies. In realpolitik, often dictated by pragmatism and procedural stunts rather than substantive political discourse, politicians do not necessarily have a conscience. They just want to win. For them, if the numbers are not big enough, there is no real reason to cater to that constituency.

Of course, they could look at NOTA votes as potential votes they could have won. After all, what can be more symbolic of the spirit of democracy than a prospective candidate trying to convince people that she/he is good enough for their vote.

Everything then boils down to the return on investment. Is the politician’s time and effort valuable enough to convince those disillusioned with the system? Would it be better invested in convincing people who are willing to choose sides?

In most cases, the answer to these questions lies in who actually votes for NOTA. It is an informed choice and thus people who vote NOTA generally have their arguments prepared on why they don’t want to vote for any of the candidates in the field.

Sadly, most candidates have neither the intellectual faculty nor the moral conviction to actually change their opinion.

In a political system where people jump parties every other day, where ideological change is a matter of a press conference and where the bar for political discourse is often set at its lowest marker, the candidates one gets to choose from are often disinterested in the voter’s voice.

For the voter, the dilemma is always between voting as an individual or voting as a collective. As an individual, one has every right to vote for NOTA. There are so many constituencies where the same pool of candidates keep fighting for years, even generations. There are many voters who haven’t ever seen an MP or an MLA because they feel their vote is not important enough.

On the other side, it is worth considering larger political ideologies and goals. For example, an individual can think as a caste group or a religious group or member of an urban community, like the RWA.

In these cases, collective interests often overpower individual interests. Politicians too try and appease these collective voters because it is better return on their investment.

One day, we might have collectives in India voting and propagating for NOTA. This will surely draw the attention of every political party towards the NOTA voter.

For now though, the NOTA voter is mostly an individual, tired of no change, watching a surfeit of TV news debates and appalled at the political discourse in the country.

Looked at it like that, Yogendra Yadav might have been advocating NOTA as a pragmatic political tool. After all, most NOTA voters in Delhi are presumably middle or upper class and have traditionally voted for either the BJP or Congress.

So NOTA, in reality, might actually help his old party, which is more popular among the lower middle and working classes of Delhi. For some, this might seem as a piece of far fetched political fiction, but one thing is for sure: No one can predict anything about the elections until the results are out. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-nota-unknown-factor-now-may-23-could-provide-clues-2747320">original article</a>)

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

In Indian democracy, voting is a right. No matter what you think about it, it empowers millions of people across the country. It particularly empowers those who feel that their voice is not represented in the mainstream political discourse.

In Indian democracy, voting is a right. No matter what you think about it, it empowers millions of people across the country. It particularly empowers those who feel that their voice is not represented in the mainstream political discourse. Recently, when the leader of Swaraj India, Yogendra Yadav, issued an appeal to voters in Delhi to vote for none of the above (NOTA), it led to a backlash. The absence of any political alternative and the cynicism of nothing changing even if you cast a vote, is what prompts NOTA. It’s a tool of expressing dissatisfaction with the pool of candidates, a voice against the collective betrayal by the political class. But what if this voice isn’t heard? The idea behind NOTA is that when people start exercising it, it should make the ruling class aware of their fallacies. In realpolitik, often dictated by pragmatism and procedural stunts rather than substantive political discourse, politicians do not necessarily have a conscience. They just want to win. For them, if the numbers are not big enough, there is no real reason to cater to that constituency. Of course, they could look at NOTA votes as potential votes they could have won. After all, what can be more symbolic of the spirit of democracy than a prospective candidate trying to convince people that she/he is good enough for their vote. Everything then boils down to the return on investment. Is the politician’s time and effort valuable enough to convince those disillusioned with the system? Would it be better invested in convincing people who are willing to choose sides? In most cases, the answer to these questions lies in who actually votes for NOTA. It is an informed choice and thus people who vote NOTA generally have their arguments prepared on why they don’t want to vote for any of the candidates in the field. Sadly, most candidates have neither the intellectual faculty nor the moral conviction to actually change their opinion. In a political system where people jump parties every other day, where ideological change is a matter of a press conference and where the bar for political discourse is often set at its lowest marker, the candidates one gets to choose from are often disinterested in the voter’s voice. For the voter, the dilemma is always between voting as an individual or voting as a collective. As an individual, one has every right to vote for NOTA. There are so many constituencies where the same pool of candidates keep fighting for years, even generations. There are many voters who haven’t ever seen an MP or an MLA because they feel their vote is not important enough. On the other side, it is worth considering larger political ideologies and goals. For example, an individual can think as a caste group or a religious group or member of an urban community, like the RWA. In these cases, collective interests often overpower individual interests. Politicians too try and appease these collective voters because it is better return on their investment. One day, we might have collectives in India voting and propagating for NOTA. This will surely draw the attention of every political party towards the NOTA voter. For now though, the NOTA voter is mostly an individual, tired of no change, watching a surfeit of TV news debates and appalled at the political discourse in the country. Looked at it like that, Yogendra Yadav might have been advocating NOTA as a pragmatic political tool. After all, most NOTA voters in Delhi are presumably middle or upper class and have traditionally voted for either the BJP or Congress. So NOTA, in reality, might actually help his old party, which is more popular among the lower middle and working classes of Delhi. For some, this might seem as a piece of far fetched political fiction, but one thing is for sure: No one can predict anything about the elections until the results are out. (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.)

This election, India will finally know the effect NOTA has on the political discourse

Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him."

PM Modi also said that the kind of language she is using, it can be understood that she is "worried".

PM Modi made the statement while he was addressing a rally in Bankura district in West Bengal.

He further attacked Banerjee saying that she is not ready to accept Modi as country's PM, but "ready to acknowledge the PM of Pakistan".

"Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is disrespecting constitution of India. She is saying that she is not ready to accept the country's prime minister but she feels pride in accepting Pakistan's PM."

PM Modi also said that , "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-could-not-talk-to-mamata-over-cyclone-as-his-calls-were-not-returned-official-216063">when cyclone came in West Bengal</a>, I called 'didi' again and again, but because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to PM," adding, "central government wanted to talk with the officers here and help the state, but 'didi' refused to even hold that meeting".

"In her thirst for power, Mamata Didi first destroyed West Bengal, now she is more determined to destroy the state in fear of losing power," PM Modi said.

With election campaign in its last leg, PM Modi was addressing the rally at poll-bound Bankura district of West Bengal, after which he will go to Purulia district to hold another rally. He&nbsp;will also hold&nbsp;public meetings at Azamgarh, Jaunpur and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. All these cities are going to polls on May 12.

West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats of which polling for 17 seats is yet to be held in the sixth and seventh phases of the Lok Sabha election on May 12 and 19.

The counting will take place on May 23.

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Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him.

Responding to the strong words used by West Bengal chief minister earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit out at Mamata Banerjee saying that he is not worried about her anger as the "love of 130 crore people is with him." PM Modi also said that the kind of language she is using, it can be understood that she is "worried". PM Modi made the statement while he was addressing a rally in Bankura district in West Bengal. He further attacked Banerjee saying that she is not ready to accept Modi as country's PM, but "ready to acknowledge the PM of Pakistan". "Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is disrespecting constitution of India. She is saying that she is not ready to accept the country's prime minister but she feels pride in accepting Pakistan's PM." PM Modi also said that , "when cyclone came in West Bengal, I called 'didi' again and again, but because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to PM," adding, "central government wanted to talk with the officers here and help the state, but 'didi' refused to even hold that meeting". "In her thirst for power, Mamata Didi first destroyed West Bengal, now she is more determined to destroy the state in fear of losing power," PM Modi said. With election campaign in its last leg, PM Modi was addressing the rally at poll-bound Bankura district of West Bengal, after which he will go to Purulia district to hold another rally. He will also hold public meetings at Azamgarh, Jaunpur and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. All these cities are going to polls on May 12. West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats of which polling for 17 seats is yet to be held in the sixth and seventh phases of the Lok Sabha election on May 12 and 19. The counting will take place on May 23. ×

By not accepting country's PM, Mamata Banerjee disrespecting constitution of India: Modi in West Bengal rally

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency.

In an order on Wednesday, EC stated that the re-polling will be held on May 12 between 7 am to 6 pm.

"After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 18, 2019, at Polling Station No. 10 of 10-Kamraj Nagar Assembly Segment of Puducherry parliamentary constituency to be void," an order from the EC to the Returning Officer of Puducherry read.

The ECI directed the Returning Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas.

It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll.

Earlier on Tuesday, EC had declared 'void', polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12.

Puducherry Lok Sabha seat went to polls on April 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency.

The Election Commission of India (EC) has declared "void", polls held on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency. In an order on Wednesday, EC stated that the re-polling will be held on May 12 between 7 am to 6 pm. "After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 18, 2019, at Polling Station No. 10 of 10-Kamraj Nagar Assembly Segment of Puducherry parliamentary constituency to be void," an order from the EC to the Returning Officer of Puducherry read. The ECI directed the Returning Officer to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas. It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. Earlier on Tuesday, EC had declared 'void', polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12. Puducherry Lok Sabha seat went to polls on April 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission orders re-polling in one booth in Puducherry

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/shocked-to-see-cjis-image-being-maligned-pm-modi-to-wion-217333">In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief</a>, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at the 'united opposition' formed under the garb of the ''Mahagathbandhan,' the prime minister said that he wishes the political opposition was united but in reality, "they all have come together knowing that they all will not be able to withstand this wave."

"Deep within they all want to overtake each other, there is no unity, this is very well understood by the voters of the country," PM Modi said. &nbsp;

The prime minister went on to say that the entire world lauds the democracy of the country, the mega electoral process that comes into play for the election of the country's government every term, "but we just can't get enough of criticising ourselves and picking faults," he added.&nbsp;

"This election, or the issues this time, should not be seen on the basis of the TRPs or the rallies and addresses of political leaders, it should only be seen or understood in context to what the voters understand and want," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

He said that politics should be done on the basis of truth and battles must be fought on a strong foundation. &nbsp;

"There must be fair play in politics," the prime minister said adding that after May 23rd the electronic voting machine (EVM) will pronounce the result, the result which the citizens of the country would decide. "EVM bolega," the PM exclaimed. &nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already.

In an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-Chief, Sudhir Chaudhary Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked on a range of issues. He exuded the confidence of securing a second term and said that the "people of the country have decided" that already. Taking a dig at the 'united opposition' formed under the garb of the ''Mahagathbandhan,' the prime minister said that he wishes the political opposition was united but in reality, "they all have come together knowing that they all will not be able to withstand this wave." "Deep within they all want to overtake each other, there is no unity, this is very well understood by the voters of the country," PM Modi said. The prime minister went on to say that the entire world lauds the democracy of the country, the mega electoral process that comes into play for the election of the country's government every term, "but we just can't get enough of criticising ourselves and picking faults," he added. "This election, or the issues this time, should not be seen on the basis of the TRPs or the rallies and addresses of political leaders, it should only be seen or understood in context to what the voters understand and want," the prime minister said. He said that politics should be done on the basis of truth and battles must be fought on a strong foundation. "There must be fair play in politics," the prime minister said adding that after May 23rd the electronic voting machine (EVM) will pronounce the result, the result which the citizens of the country would decide. "EVM bolega," the PM exclaimed.

There is no unity in 'Mahagathbandhan', they came together knowing there isn't any other way: PM Modi to WION

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-will-be-wasting-her-time-campaigning-in-the-national-capital-kejriwal-216999">invoked her Delhi roots</a> during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-will-stop-flow-of-our-share-of-water-to-pakistan-pm-modi-at-kurukshetra-poll-rally-217039">Narendra Modi</a> to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ncpcr-notice-to-priyanka-gandhi-over-use-of-children-in-electioneering-215473">Priyanka Gandhi</a>, 47, said she was born in Delhi and knows the city like the back of her hand.

She held two roadshows in a span of four hours in favour of party candidates from the Northeast Delhi and the South Delhi constituencies -- Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh.&nbsp;

During her first roadshow in support of Dikshit, she said the people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk".

"Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women security and the false promises you made to the people of the country," she said, as the crowd clapped, cheered and whistled.

Modi had challenged the Congress to fight the last two phases in the name of Rajiv Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi's father and former prime minister who he has described as "Bhrashtachari No 1" (corrupt no 1).

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Priyanka Gandhi said Modi has been shifting the blame on former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, like a school child trying to escape punishment from teachers.&nbsp;

She also accused Modi of "destroying" institutions and the BJP of "playing politics in the name of religion".

Perched atop a minibus, she said, "I cannot disrespect you (people of Delhi). We are not arrogant like BJP. We know you have made us what we are today."

"Modi ji has been in Delhi for five years. I was born in the city. I have seen every bylane, every nook and cranny of the city. I will tell you (Modi) what the people of Delhi think. They (people) are tired of your purposeless talk. You keep yourself confined to your Race Course Road residence," she said.

The prime minister's officials residence is 7, Race Course Road. The name of the road was changed to Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016.

Priyanka Gandhi accused Modi of indulging in negative politics and said he cannot give a direct answer to questions asked about the work he did in the past five years.

Raking up the issue of GST, she said the new indirect tax regime broke the back of businessmen.

The AICC general secretary also referred to the BJP's 2014 poll promises, including that of providing two&nbsp;crore jobs every year.

"You talk about nationalism. Is securing a better future for the youth of the country, not nationalism?" she asked.

She asked the crowd if they got the jobs to which the people responded in the negative.

"He (Modi) failed to protect soldiers, youths and women but who will hold him accountable and who will seek answers from him," she asked the gathering which replied, "We will."

"You have to vote and strengthen yourself. He (Modi) is destroying all institutions and they (BJP) are playing politics in the name of religion. Delhi is the heart of the nation. Raise your voice...We have had enough," she said.

The roadshow started in Seelampur, a minority-dominated area, and meandered with a sea of people towards the Yamuna Vihar depot, where it culminated.

The Congress leaders waved at the ebullient hordes of supporters who raised slogans "Desh me andhi, Priyanka Gandhi" Gandhi&nbsp;and "Priyanka nahi ye andhi hai dusri Indira Gandhi hai''.&nbsp;

As people jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi, women in the balconies of the houses lining the streets showered her with bucket loads of rose petals.

Her cavalcade curled through the lanes amid a cacophony of claps, hooting, sloganeering and drum beating.

"Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP seeking reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government," said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur.

Priyanka Gandhi also held another roadshow in support of the party's candidate for the South Delhi seat, Vijender Singh.

The hour-long roadshow began from Virat Cinema and culminated at the Tigri traffic intersection, after winding its way through people-filled streets.

Slogans of "Boxer bhai zindabad, Priyanka Gandhi zindabad" rented the air, as the two leaders waved at the elated crowd that included people of all ages.

"When I see her, she reminds me of Indira Gandhi. And her entering politics has lent fresh energy to Congress. Our party will do well," Om Wati, 54, a former municipal councillor of Delhi, said.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday invoked her Delhi roots during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday invoked her Delhi roots during a roadshow here, and threw an open challenge at Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people. Priyanka Gandhi, 47, said she was born in Delhi and knows the city like the back of her hand. She held two roadshows in a span of four hours in favour of party candidates from the Northeast Delhi and the South Delhi constituencies -- Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh. During her first roadshow in support of Dikshit, she said the people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk". "Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women security and the false promises you made to the people of the country," she said, as the crowd clapped, cheered and whistled. Modi had challenged the Congress to fight the last two phases in the name of Rajiv Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi's father and former prime minister who he has described as "Bhrashtachari No 1" (corrupt no 1). × Priyanka Gandhi said Modi has been shifting the blame on former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, like a school child trying to escape punishment from teachers. She also accused Modi of "destroying" institutions and the BJP of "playing politics in the name of religion". Perched atop a minibus, she said, "I cannot disrespect you (people of Delhi). We are not arrogant like BJP. We know you have made us what we are today." "Modi ji has been in Delhi for five years. I was born in the city. I have seen every bylane, every nook and cranny of the city. I will tell you (Modi) what the people of Delhi think. They (people) are tired of your purposeless talk. You keep yourself confined to your Race Course Road residence," she said. The prime minister's officials residence is 7, Race Course Road. The name of the road was changed to Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016. Priyanka Gandhi accused Modi of indulging in negative politics and said he cannot give a direct answer to questions asked about the work he did in the past five years. Raking up the issue of GST, she said the new indirect tax regime broke the back of businessmen. The AICC general secretary also referred to the BJP's 2014 poll promises, including that of providing two crore jobs every year. "You talk about nationalism. Is securing a better future for the youth of the country, not nationalism?" she asked. She asked the crowd if they got the jobs to which the people responded in the negative. "He (Modi) failed to protect soldiers, youths and women but who will hold him accountable and who will seek answers from him," she asked the gathering which replied, "We will." "You have to vote and strengthen yourself. He (Modi) is destroying all institutions and they (BJP) are playing politics in the name of religion. Delhi is the heart of the nation. Raise your voice...We have had enough," she said. The roadshow started in Seelampur, a minority-dominated area, and meandered with a sea of people towards the Yamuna Vihar depot, where it culminated. The Congress leaders waved at the ebullient hordes of supporters who raised slogans "Desh me andhi, Priyanka Gandhi" Gandhi and "Priyanka nahi ye andhi hai dusri Indira Gandhi hai''. As people jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi, women in the balconies of the houses lining the streets showered her with bucket loads of rose petals. Her cavalcade curled through the lanes amid a cacophony of claps, hooting, sloganeering and drum beating. "Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP seeking reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government," said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur. Priyanka Gandhi also held another roadshow in support of the party's candidate for the South Delhi seat, Vijender Singh. The hour-long roadshow began from Virat Cinema and culminated at the Tigri traffic intersection, after winding its way through people-filled streets. Slogans of "Boxer bhai zindabad, Priyanka Gandhi zindabad" rented the air, as the two leaders waved at the elated crowd that included people of all ages. "When I see her, she reminds me of Indira Gandhi. And her entering politics has lent fresh energy to Congress. Our party will do well," Om Wati, 54, a former municipal councillor of Delhi, said.

Priyanka Gandhi invokes Delhi roots, challenges PM Modi to fight elections on false promises

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday.&nbsp;

Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.&nbsp;

At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament."

Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas.

Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining.

Under the leadership Of Mamata Banerjee India will change, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu at a campaign rally in Kharagpur on Thursday. Mamata campaigned in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh in support of the TDP chief in the run-up to the polls in the state and Naidu is now returning the favour and is campaigning in West Bengal as the election reaches its final stage with two phases of polling remaining. At a TMC rally in Kharagpur Naidu stated: "Under the leadership of Bengal tiger Mamata Banerjee India will change and urged the people to vote for TMC so that a large representation goes from the state to Parliament." Naidu is on a two-day visit to West Bengal and is campaigning in south Indians dominated areas. Today after the campaign, Naidu and Mamata had a meeting where post-poll strategies were discussed at large.

Under the leadership of Mamata India will change, says Chandrababu Naidu 

Bharatiya Janata Party's East Delhi candidate and former cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday denied Aam Aadmi Party's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/aaps-atishi-charges-bjp-with-distributing-obscene-pamphlets-against-her-party-denies-217295">Atishi's allegations of distributing pamphlets containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her</a>&nbsp;and said&nbsp;he will "quit politics" if the allegations are proved.&nbsp;

Gambhir demanded that Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal to step down in case no proof is found against him.&nbsp;

"If they can get a proof, I'll resign right now and if they get a proof by 23rd I'll resign on that particular day. But if Arvind Kejriwal does not get the proof, does he accept the challenge that he will leave politics forever on 23rd?" Gambhir stated.&nbsp;

He also noted that he will file a defamation case against AAP.&nbsp;

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I abhor your act of outraging a woman’s modesty <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections? U r filth Mr CM and someone needs ur very own झाड़ू to clean ur dirty mind.
— Chowkidar Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1126428217319944192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"You can't tarnish someone's image just like that if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning," he said.&nbsp;

Gambhir took to Twitter and in a series of tweets slammed Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;

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My Challenge no.2 <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AtishiAAP</a> 
I declare that if its proven that I did it, I will withdraw my candidature right now. If not, will u quit politics?
— Chowkidar Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1126428838588608512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I feel ashamed to have a CM like Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir tweeted out.&nbsp;

"I abhor your act of outraging a woman’s modesty Arvind Kejriwal and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections? Ur filth Mr CM and someone needs ur very own 'jhaadu' to clean ur dirty mind," read his tweet.&nbsp;

Gambhir's outburst came shortly after East Delhi AAP candidate Atishi, earlier today, broke down while reading a pamphlet containing "obscene and derogatory&nbsp;remarks against me'' that she claimed has been distributed in the constituency by her BJP rival.

The BJP, on its part, charged the AAP with stage managing such incidents.

Atishi alleged the pamphlets containing derogatory remarks on her as well as her family were distributed by the BJP at housing complexes.

"I had welcomed Gambhir myself when he joined politics but I never imagined that he would stoop to this level in the Lok Sabha polls," Atishi said.

"I have only one question for Gautam Gambhir. If he is doing this against one woman, what about the lakhs of women in east Delhi who are worried about their safety," Atishi said. 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party's East Delhi candidate and former cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday denied Aam Aadmi Party's Atishi's allegations of distributing pamphlets containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her and said he will "quit politics" if the allegations are proved.

Bharatiya Janata Party's East Delhi candidate and former cricketer Gautam Gambhir on Thursday denied Aam Aadmi Party's Atishi's allegations of distributing pamphlets containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her and said he will "quit politics" if the allegations are proved. Gambhir demanded that Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal to step down in case no proof is found against him. "If they can get a proof, I'll resign right now and if they get a proof by 23rd I'll resign on that particular day. But if Arvind Kejriwal does not get the proof, does he accept the challenge that he will leave politics forever on 23rd?" Gambhir stated. He also noted that he will file a defamation case against AAP. I abhor your act of outraging a woman’s modesty @ArvindKejriwal and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections? U r filth Mr CM and someone needs ur very own झाड़ू to clean ur dirty mind. — Chowkidar Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 9, 2019 × "You can't tarnish someone's image just like that if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning," he said. Gambhir took to Twitter and in a series of tweets slammed Arvind Kejriwal. My Challenge no.2 @ArvindKejriwal @AtishiAAP I declare that if its proven that I did it, I will withdraw my candidature right now. If not, will u quit politics? — Chowkidar Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 9, 2019 × "I feel ashamed to have a CM like Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir tweeted out. "I abhor your act of outraging a woman’s modesty Arvind Kejriwal and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections? Ur filth Mr CM and someone needs ur very own 'jhaadu' to clean ur dirty mind," read his tweet. Gambhir's outburst came shortly after East Delhi AAP candidate Atishi, earlier today, broke down while reading a pamphlet containing "obscene and derogatory remarks against me'' that she claimed has been distributed in the constituency by her BJP rival. The BJP, on its part, charged the AAP with stage managing such incidents. Atishi alleged the pamphlets containing derogatory remarks on her as well as her family were distributed by the BJP at housing complexes. "I had welcomed Gambhir myself when he joined politics but I never imagined that he would stoop to this level in the Lok Sabha polls," Atishi said. "I have only one question for Gautam Gambhir. If he is doing this against one woman, what about the lakhs of women in east Delhi who are worried about their safety," Atishi said.

Gambhir demands proof after AAP's Atishi accuses him of distributing 'derogatory' pamphlets against her

East Delhi AAP candidate Atishi Thursday broke down while reading a pamphlet containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her that she claimed has been distributed in the constituency by her BJP rival Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;

The BJP, on its part, charged the AAP with stage managing such incidents.

Atishi alleged the pamphlets containing derogatory remarks on her as well as her family were distributed by the BJP at housing complexes.

"I had welcomed Gambhir myself when he joined politics but I never imagined that he would stoop to this level in the Lok Sabha polls," Atishi said.

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AAP East Delhi LS seat candidate Atishi breaks down during a press conference alleging BJP's Gautam Gambhir of distributing pamphlets with derogatory remarks against her says,"They've shown how low they can stoop.Pamphlet states that 'she is very good example of a mixed breed'." <a href="https://t.co/z14MXXh574">pic.twitter.com/z14MXXh574</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1126424868264796160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I have only one question for Gautam Gambhir. If he is doing this against one woman, what about the lakhs of women in east Delhi who are worried about their safety," Atishi said.&nbsp;

Atishi, who was accompanied by Deputy Delhi Chief Minister Manish Sisodia during a press conference, broke down as she read out the pamphlet in front of reporters.

The Delhi Chief Minister said he "never imagined Gautam Gambhir to stoop so low".

"How can women expect safety if people with such mentality are voted in? Atishi, stay strong. I can imagine how difficult it must be for u. It is precisely this kind of forces we have to fight against," Kejriwal tweeted.

"The BJP has nothing to do with the alleged pamphlets. AAP has no character and its notoriety about stage managing such things is well known. They can do anything like getting their leaders slapped and distribute scandalous pamphlets to be in the race for Lok Sabha elections that they are badly losing," said&nbsp;BJP media in charge, East Delhi.&nbsp;

East Delhi AAP candidate Atishi Thursday broke down while reading a pamphlet containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her that she claimed has been distributed in the constituency by her BJP rival Gautam Gambhir.

East Delhi AAP candidate Atishi Thursday broke down while reading a pamphlet containing "obscene and derogatory" remarks against her that she claimed has been distributed in the constituency by her BJP rival Gautam Gambhir. The BJP, on its part, charged the AAP with stage managing such incidents. Atishi alleged the pamphlets containing derogatory remarks on her as well as her family were distributed by the BJP at housing complexes. "I had welcomed Gambhir myself when he joined politics but I never imagined that he would stoop to this level in the Lok Sabha polls," Atishi said. AAP East Delhi LS seat candidate Atishi breaks down during a press conference alleging BJP's Gautam Gambhir of distributing pamphlets with derogatory remarks against her says,"They've shown how low they can stoop.Pamphlet states that 'she is very good example of a mixed breed'." pic.twitter.com/z14MXXh574 — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 × "I have only one question for Gautam Gambhir. If he is doing this against one woman, what about the lakhs of women in east Delhi who are worried about their safety," Atishi said. Atishi, who was accompanied by Deputy Delhi Chief Minister Manish Sisodia during a press conference, broke down as she read out the pamphlet in front of reporters. The Delhi Chief Minister said he "never imagined Gautam Gambhir to stoop so low". "How can women expect safety if people with such mentality are voted in? Atishi, stay strong. I can imagine how difficult it must be for u. It is precisely this kind of forces we have to fight against," Kejriwal tweeted. "The BJP has nothing to do with the alleged pamphlets. AAP has no character and its notoriety about stage managing such things is well known. They can do anything like getting their leaders slapped and distribute scandalous pamphlets to be in the race for Lok Sabha elections that they are badly losing," said BJP media in charge, East Delhi.

AAP's Atishi charges BJP with distributing obscene pamphlets against her, party denies

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/our-government-prioritised-national-interest-we-entered-pakistan-and-attacked-terrorists-pm-modi-217262">Modi government has shown zero-tolerance towards terrorism</a>, unlike past dispensations which were "soft" on it, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Thursday.

He also said the BJP will get good results in the country's eastern states, including West Bengal and Odisha, and in Kerala as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "extremely popular".&nbsp;

"In the past five years, no terrorist attack took place in Uttar Pradesh this is possible only because of PM Modi," Adityanath said at a convention.

"Earlier, whenever any terrorist incident took place in the country, people were killed and brave soldiers were martyred. The governments were soft towards terrorism. But, now, there is a zero-tolerance policy against these activities," he said.

Highlighting the developmental works carried out in the temple town of Kashi, the chief minister said it is due to the good governance of the prime minister, that the city has "evolved", and now, everyone is witnessing PM Modi's "new Kashi".

"Earlier when people used to see dirty ghats, dangling electric wires and potholes on roads, they used to wonder if this city is actually Kashi.Today the New Kashi is before everyone," he said.&nbsp;

The chief minister also claimed that before 2014, if someone went to embassies for visa, officers used to see them with "contempt".&nbsp;

"But, after Modiji came to power, there has been a positive change. Now, officers of embassies recognise Indians and say 'you are from Modi's country'," he said.

The Modi government has shown zero-tolerance towards terrorism, unlike past dispensations which were "soft" on it, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Thursday.

The Modi government has shown zero-tolerance towards terrorism, unlike past dispensations which were "soft" on it, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Thursday. He also said the BJP will get good results in the country's eastern states, including West Bengal and Odisha, and in Kerala as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "extremely popular". "In the past five years, no terrorist attack took place in Uttar Pradesh this is possible only because of PM Modi," Adityanath said at a convention. "Earlier, whenever any terrorist incident took place in the country, people were killed and brave soldiers were martyred. The governments were soft towards terrorism. But, now, there is a zero-tolerance policy against these activities," he said. Highlighting the developmental works carried out in the temple town of Kashi, the chief minister said it is due to the good governance of the prime minister, that the city has "evolved", and now, everyone is witnessing PM Modi's "new Kashi". "Earlier when people used to see dirty ghats, dangling electric wires and potholes on roads, they used to wonder if this city is actually Kashi.Today the New Kashi is before everyone," he said. The chief minister also claimed that before 2014, if someone went to embassies for visa, officers used to see them with "contempt". "But, after Modiji came to power, there has been a positive change. Now, officers of embassies recognise Indians and say 'you are from Modi's country'," he said.

Past governments were soft on terrorism: Yogi Adityanath

The Congress has lost all political credibility when it comes to addressing the issue of poverty, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-will-flow-to-rajasthan-punjab-not-pakistan-if-it-continues-to-support-terrorism-nitin-gadkari-217165">Union minister Nitin Gadkari</a> said on Thursday, taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi's proposed "Nyay" scheme by invoking Congress prime ministers, who, he claimed, had vowed to eradicate poverty and failed.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference at the BJP office, Gadkari also alleged that the Congress had deliberately created "fear" in the minds of the minorities to divert attention from performance, work and development, which should have been the issues in the ongoing Lok Sabha election.

"The Congress party has no credibility. After 1947, (then prime minister Jawaharlal) Nehru said he will remove poverty. Then Indira Gandhi said this. She used the slogan of removing poverty and won (elections), but poverty did not go. Then Rajiv Gandhi repeated that;&nbsp;then Sonia Gandhi and then Manmohan Singh, but poverty did not go. Now, even Panditji's (Nehru) great-grandson is saying the same thing," he said.

"If he (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) will remove poverty by giving Rs 72,000, then what did Pandit Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Manmohan Singh do? That is why the political credibility of the Congress in removing poverty has ended," Gadkari said.&nbsp;

The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader further alleged that the Congress had a history of injustice and since 1947, it had been responsible for "wrong economic policies, bad and corrupt governance and visionless leadership".

"So, 'Nyay' will not happen, because, with justice, the person dolling it out should also be trustworthy," he said.

Gadkari also lashed out at the opposition party for the abuse it had meted out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during its poll campaign and said he had a list of 56 such abuses.

"The Congress deliberately wants to ensure that performance and work do not become poll issues. That is why they have done two things. One, fear is their biggest capital. Create fear in the minds of Dalits, minorities, SCs and STs. Two, ensure that a discussion on the work done in five years, which had not happened in 50 years, does not take place. If the discussion revolves around development, then they know they will be in trouble," he said.

Under the Modi government, the social sector had benefitted immensely, Gadkari said while talking about the opening of bank accounts, roads, water and electricity.&nbsp;

"Last time during the Kumbh, the prime minister of Mauritius could not go for a bath in the Ganga... This time, 20 crore people visited the Kumbh and took bath in the river. For the first time, the Ganga was pure and clean. We did what we promised," the Union Minister said.

"We made the waterways and that is why (Congress leader) Priyanka (Gandhi Vadra) could travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi on a boat while abusing us continuously. I want to ask her, had we not made the waterway, how would she have done that? She could drink the water thrice because we have cleaned the Ganga water. Or else, she would have also had to leave like the Mauritius PM," the Union minister for road transport and highways said.

He said it was unfortunate that those who had promoted the accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, those who had failed to give justice to the victims were now talking about "Nyay".

"The politics of performance and development is our biggest asset. Our schemes have reached every nook and cranny of this country and that is how we want to fight the election. The lowering of the standard of the discourse during this election has been noticed by the people of this country. We will form a BJP-led NDA government with a record mandate," Gadkari said.

The Congress has lost all political credibility when it comes to addressing the issue of poverty, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday, taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi's proposed "Nyay" scheme by invoking Congress prime ministers, who, he claimed, had vowed to eradicate poverty and failed.

The Congress has lost all political credibility when it comes to addressing the issue of poverty, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday, taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi's proposed "Nyay" scheme by invoking Congress prime ministers, who, he claimed, had vowed to eradicate poverty and failed. Addressing a press conference at the BJP office, Gadkari also alleged that the Congress had deliberately created "fear" in the minds of the minorities to divert attention from performance, work and development, which should have been the issues in the ongoing Lok Sabha election. "The Congress party has no credibility. After 1947, (then prime minister Jawaharlal) Nehru said he will remove poverty. Then Indira Gandhi said this. She used the slogan of removing poverty and won (elections), but poverty did not go. Then Rajiv Gandhi repeated that; then Sonia Gandhi and then Manmohan Singh, but poverty did not go. Now, even Panditji's (Nehru) great-grandson is saying the same thing," he said. "If he (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) will remove poverty by giving Rs 72,000, then what did Pandit Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Manmohan Singh do? That is why the political credibility of the Congress in removing poverty has ended," Gadkari said. The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader further alleged that the Congress had a history of injustice and since 1947, it had been responsible for "wrong economic policies, bad and corrupt governance and visionless leadership". "So, 'Nyay' will not happen, because, with justice, the person dolling it out should also be trustworthy," he said. Gadkari also lashed out at the opposition party for the abuse it had meted out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during its poll campaign and said he had a list of 56 such abuses. "The Congress deliberately wants to ensure that performance and work do not become poll issues. That is why they have done two things. One, fear is their biggest capital. Create fear in the minds of Dalits, minorities, SCs and STs. Two, ensure that a discussion on the work done in five years, which had not happened in 50 years, does not take place. If the discussion revolves around development, then they know they will be in trouble," he said. Under the Modi government, the social sector had benefitted immensely, Gadkari said while talking about the opening of bank accounts, roads, water and electricity. "Last time during the Kumbh, the prime minister of Mauritius could not go for a bath in the Ganga... This time, 20 crore people visited the Kumbh and took bath in the river. For the first time, the Ganga was pure and clean. We did what we promised," the Union Minister said. "We made the waterways and that is why (Congress leader) Priyanka (Gandhi Vadra) could travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi on a boat while abusing us continuously. I want to ask her, had we not made the waterway, how would she have done that? She could drink the water thrice because we have cleaned the Ganga water. Or else, she would have also had to leave like the Mauritius PM," the Union minister for road transport and highways said. He said it was unfortunate that those who had promoted the accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, those who had failed to give justice to the victims were now talking about "Nyay". "The politics of performance and development is our biggest asset. Our schemes have reached every nook and cranny of this country and that is how we want to fight the election. The lowering of the standard of the discourse during this election has been noticed by the people of this country. We will form a BJP-led NDA government with a record mandate," Gadkari said.

Congress has lost credibility to address poverty: Nitin Gadkari

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Thursday dared Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to advise Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to fight Lok Sabha polls on issues like farm debt waiver, employment to youth and other "false" promises he made to people of the state.

Badal, the Akali candidate from the Bathinda parliamentary seat, threw an open challenge at Priyanka Gandhi a day after the Congress leader had challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people.

"A daughter of Punjab is throwing an open challenge to you (Priyanka). You advise Amarinder Singh to fight polls in Punjab on the issue of the genocide of Sikhs and false promises like farm debt waiver, employment to youth, unemployment allowance and smartphones. There should be no double standards," She tweeted.&nbsp;

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has been accusing the Amarinder Singh-led government of reneging on its promises made during the 2017 assembly elections.

On Wednesday, Priyanka Gandhi had held a roadshow in Delhi and said people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk".

"Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha elections on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women's security and the false promises made to people of the country," Priyanka Gandhi had said during the roadshow.

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Thursday dared Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to advise Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to fight Lok Sabha polls on issues like farm debt waiver, employment to youth and other "false" promises he made to people of the state.

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Thursday dared Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to advise Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to fight Lok Sabha polls on issues like farm debt waiver, employment to youth and other "false" promises he made to people of the state. Badal, the Akali candidate from the Bathinda parliamentary seat, threw an open challenge at Priyanka Gandhi a day after the Congress leader had challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha election on the issue of the "false promises" he made to people. "A daughter of Punjab is throwing an open challenge to you (Priyanka). You advise Amarinder Singh to fight polls in Punjab on the issue of the genocide of Sikhs and false promises like farm debt waiver, employment to youth, unemployment allowance and smartphones. There should be no double standards," She tweeted. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has been accusing the Amarinder Singh-led government of reneging on its promises made during the 2017 assembly elections. On Wednesday, Priyanka Gandhi had held a roadshow in Delhi and said people of the city were tired of Modi's "purposeless talk". "Being a Delhi girl, I challenge you to fight the last two phases of the Lok Sabha elections on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women's security and the false promises made to people of the country," Priyanka Gandhi had said during the roadshow.

Ask Punjab CM to fight Lok Sabha polls on 'false' promises made to people: Harsimrat Kaur Badal to Priyanka Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh and said that the region experienced terrorism during the UPA government and had become "synonymous with terrorism before 2014, not so any longer".

Lauding his government and its work against terrorism in the past five years, the prime minister asked how is it now that terror activities and bomb blasts occurrences have been brought under control?&nbsp;

"How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&amp;K now?" PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Azamgarh: How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&amp;K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists. <a href="https://t.co/ONk4g78iY0">pic.twitter.com/ONk4g78iY0</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1126431037314273287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is because our government prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists," he said.&nbsp;

He went on to slam the 'grand alliance' and noted that the 'mahagathbandhan' "can lead only to anarchy and instability".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-will-stop-flow-of-our-share-of-water-to-pakistan-pm-modi-at-kurukshetra-poll-rally-217039">On Wednesday, while addressing a rally in Kurukshetra</a>, Haryana, PM Modi slammed the Congress party for its softer stance against Pakistan in the past and promised with his return to power, India’s share of river water won’t go to Pakistan.

He said that the previous governments were never considerate to preserve the water of Indian rivers for the advantage of the farmers.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh and said that the region experienced terrorism during the UPA government and had become "synonymous with terrorism before 2014, not so any longer".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh and said that the region experienced terrorism during the UPA government and had become "synonymous with terrorism before 2014, not so any longer". Lauding his government and its work against terrorism in the past five years, the prime minister asked how is it now that terror activities and bomb blasts occurrences have been brought under control? "How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now?" PM Modi said. PM Modi in Azamgarh: How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists. pic.twitter.com/ONk4g78iY0 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 × "It is because our government prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists," he said. He went on to slam the 'grand alliance' and noted that the 'mahagathbandhan' "can lead only to anarchy and instability". On Wednesday, while addressing a rally in Kurukshetra, Haryana, PM Modi slammed the Congress party for its softer stance against Pakistan in the past and promised with his return to power, India’s share of river water won’t go to Pakistan. He said that the previous governments were never considerate to preserve the water of Indian rivers for the advantage of the farmers.

Our government prioritised national interest, we entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists: PM Modi 

Nearly 20 days after elections were held in Tamil Nadu (polling day was April 18), the Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo announced on Wednesday that re-polling would be held in 13 booths that are spread across districts.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters in Chennai, the officer explained the reasons behind the Election Commission's decision of conducting re-polls in the state.

He said that it was recommended to the ECI on April 20 that re-polling be conducted in ten booths spread across Dharmapuri, Cuddalore and Tiruvallur owing to data clearing errors in the EVMs, VVPAT machines and dysfunctional EVMs.&nbsp;

Besides the initially recommended 10 booths, re-polling has also been announced for two booths falling under Theni and one seat under Erode constituency.

Subsequently, information regarding errors in 46 booths was also sent across to the ECI, outlining the specific issues faced in each booth. The Officer said that of the 65,000 booths in the state there were errors in around 46 booths, as this time there was additional equipment in the form of the VVPAT machine.

Elaborating on the nature of the errors, the CEO said that while conducting mock polling in the booths, between 6 and 7 am, about 50 votes were cast, but the booth officers had committed errors in clearing the data in either the EVM or the VVPAT or in certain cases both machines. In some cases, the VVPAT slips were not cleared after the mock poll was conducted.

Regarding the arrangements being made for conducting re-polling in the 13 booths, he said, the respective District Election Officers would ensure that adequate awareness is created and measures are undertaken to arrange the EVMs and VVPATs. Awareness campaigns would include the beating of drums and making announcements, in addition to press releases.

Allaying fears of EVMs being moved from Erode, he said that the EVMs and VVPATs cannot be moved without the permission and knowledge of ECI and that the district officers would inform the parties before doing so.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Regarding when parliamentary elections would be held in Vellore, where it was earlier rescinded because of malpractices and huge cash seizures, he said that currently there is no information on the same.

In addition to by-polls to four vacant state assembly constituencies, Tamil Nadu will also have re-polling in 13 booths on May 19. While booths in Cuddalore and Erode would have re-polling for the parliamentary elections, booths in Theni, Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur would have re-polling for both assembly by-elections and parliamentary elections.

Nearly 20 days after elections were held in Tamil Nadu (polling day was April 18), the Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo announced on Wednesday that re-polling would be held in 13 booths that are spread across districts.

Nearly 20 days after elections were held in Tamil Nadu (polling day was April 18), the Chief Electoral Officer(CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo announced on Wednesday that re-polling would be held in 13 booths that are spread across districts. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, the officer explained the reasons behind the Election Commission's decision of conducting re-polls in the state. He said that it was recommended to the ECI on April 20 that re-polling be conducted in ten booths spread across Dharmapuri, Cuddalore and Tiruvallur owing to data clearing errors in the EVMs, VVPAT machines and dysfunctional EVMs. Besides the initially recommended 10 booths, re-polling has also been announced for two booths falling under Theni and one seat under Erode constituency. Subsequently, information regarding errors in 46 booths was also sent across to the ECI, outlining the specific issues faced in each booth. The Officer said that of the 65,000 booths in the state there were errors in around 46 booths, as this time there was additional equipment in the form of the VVPAT machine. Elaborating on the nature of the errors, the CEO said that while conducting mock polling in the booths, between 6 and 7 am, about 50 votes were cast, but the booth officers had committed errors in clearing the data in either the EVM or the VVPAT or in certain cases both machines. In some cases, the VVPAT slips were not cleared after the mock poll was conducted. Regarding the arrangements being made for conducting re-polling in the 13 booths, he said, the respective District Election Officers would ensure that adequate awareness is created and measures are undertaken to arrange the EVMs and VVPATs. Awareness campaigns would include the beating of drums and making announcements, in addition to press releases. Allaying fears of EVMs being moved from Erode, he said that the EVMs and VVPATs cannot be moved without the permission and knowledge of ECI and that the district officers would inform the parties before doing so. Regarding when parliamentary elections would be held in Vellore, where it was earlier rescinded because of malpractices and huge cash seizures, he said that currently there is no information on the same. In addition to by-polls to four vacant state assembly constituencies, Tamil Nadu will also have re-polling in 13 booths on May 19. While booths in Cuddalore and Erode would have re-polling for the parliamentary elections, booths in Theni, Dharmapuri and Tiruvallur would have re-polling for both assembly by-elections and parliamentary elections.

Tamil Nadu CEO clarifies on reasons behind re-polling in 13 booths 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/vote-for-national-security-says-amit-shah-in-a-rally-in-jamshedpur-217037">BJP president Amit Shah</a> Thursday said Narendra Modi should be brought back as prime minister as only he can ensure national security.

Shah also accused the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party of favouring certain castes and working for them, and stressed contrary to this, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.

Wielding the nationalism plank as he addressed multiple election rallies, the BJP chief told people that only Modi is capable of keeping the country safe and teaching terrorists a lesson, as he described Modi as a "man with 56-inch chest".

He also asserted the BJP government, if voted back to power, will scrap Article 370, which gives special powers to Jammu and Kashmir.

The BJP president spelt out the central government's development and welfare projects such as providing free LPG connections, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, construction of toilets, but it was his emphasis on the national security that drew the loudest response from the crowd.

He also jeered opposition leaders - from "Rahul baba" to "Akhilesh babu" - alleging the Balakot air strikes caused as much deep sorrow in their offices as in Pakistan because they feared their "vote banks" will be upset with the attacks on terrorist camps in the neighbouring country.

"The Modi government has done so much of development work. But if there is one issue for which you have to ensure that Modi returns as prime minister, then it is national security. Only he can ensure the national security," Shah said at Balrampur.

When terrorists from across the border would target Indian soldiers, there would not be any reaction from the then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh,?he alleged, attacking the opposition.

Targeting the SP-BSP alliance, he said both regional parties are devoted to casteism and family rule and only worked for the development of one caste or another when they ruled Uttar Pradesh separately for over two decades.

Addressing an election meeting in Balrampur in support of party candidate Daddan Mishra, the BJP president said, "The SP and BSP are casteist&nbsp;and dynastic parties. When one party was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it.

"Similarly, when the second (party) was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a backseat," he said.

But, on the contrary, he said, "The BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', and it never asked the caste (of any person) while undertaking developmental work."

They never worked for the development of society, he said, asserting the BJP government under Yogi Adityanath has been working for the progress of all sections of society since it came to power in 2017.

Seeking vote in the prime minister's name, Shah claimed that Modi had not taken leave in 20 years and worked for 18 hours a day.

Taking a dig at rival leaders, he said Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav go on vacation in foreign countries when the weather hots up.&nbsp;

Showering praises on Prime Minister, Shah said, "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is not merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister."

Shah also alleged that during the tenure of the SP, the BSP and the Congress, the poor people could not afford treatment in the absence of money.

"Modiji brought Ayushman Bharat Yojana," he said, claiming that within four months lakhs of people have availed of the benefit of free treatment.

"The poor people have got a right to live," he said.&nbsp;

Referring to the law and order situation in the state, the BJP chief said, "Earlier it was the policemen, who were afraid of criminals. But, after Yogi Adityanath came to power, the criminals have started fearing the police and are requesting the cops to arrest them and not kill them in encounters."

He also accused the past governments of the SP and the BSP of turning a blind eye to land grabbers.

"After the formation of the Yogi Adityanath government, work of protecting the land of the poor has started. We have also put an end to illegal abattoirs in the state," he said.

"The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amid applause from the crowd.

Shah also claimed that UP during the Sonia-Manmohan era got Rs 3.30 lakh crore, whereas when Modi became the prime minister, UP got funds amounting to Rs 10.27 lakh crore.

The BJP chief also mentioned that it was the saffron party, which gave 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections without disturbing the quota for the backward people.

 
&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah Thursday said Narendra Modi should be brought back as prime minister as only he can ensure national security. Shah also accused the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party of favouring certain castes and working for them, and stressed contrary to this, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.

BJP president Amit Shah Thursday said Narendra Modi should be brought back as prime minister as only he can ensure national security. Shah also accused the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party of favouring certain castes and working for them, and stressed contrary to this, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Wielding the nationalism plank as he addressed multiple election rallies, the BJP chief told people that only Modi is capable of keeping the country safe and teaching terrorists a lesson, as he described Modi as a "man with 56-inch chest". He also asserted the BJP government, if voted back to power, will scrap Article 370, which gives special powers to Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP president spelt out the central government's development and welfare projects such as providing free LPG connections, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, construction of toilets, but it was his emphasis on the national security that drew the loudest response from the crowd. He also jeered opposition leaders - from "Rahul baba" to "Akhilesh babu" - alleging the Balakot air strikes caused as much deep sorrow in their offices as in Pakistan because they feared their "vote banks" will be upset with the attacks on terrorist camps in the neighbouring country. "The Modi government has done so much of development work. But if there is one issue for which you have to ensure that Modi returns as prime minister, then it is national security. Only he can ensure the national security," Shah said at Balrampur. When terrorists from across the border would target Indian soldiers, there would not be any reaction from the then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh,?he alleged, attacking the opposition. Targeting the SP-BSP alliance, he said both regional parties are devoted to casteism and family rule and only worked for the development of one caste or another when they ruled Uttar Pradesh separately for over two decades. Addressing an election meeting in Balrampur in support of party candidate Daddan Mishra, the BJP president said, "The SP and BSP are casteist and dynastic parties. When one party was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it. "Similarly, when the second (party) was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a backseat," he said. But, on the contrary, he said, "The BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', and it never asked the caste (of any person) while undertaking developmental work." They never worked for the development of society, he said, asserting the BJP government under Yogi Adityanath has been working for the progress of all sections of society since it came to power in 2017. Seeking vote in the prime minister's name, Shah claimed that Modi had not taken leave in 20 years and worked for 18 hours a day. Taking a dig at rival leaders, he said Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav go on vacation in foreign countries when the weather hots up. Showering praises on Prime Minister, Shah said, "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is not merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister." Shah also alleged that during the tenure of the SP, the BSP and the Congress, the poor people could not afford treatment in the absence of money. "Modiji brought Ayushman Bharat Yojana," he said, claiming that within four months lakhs of people have availed of the benefit of free treatment. "The poor people have got a right to live," he said. Referring to the law and order situation in the state, the BJP chief said, "Earlier it was the policemen, who were afraid of criminals. But, after Yogi Adityanath came to power, the criminals have started fearing the police and are requesting the cops to arrest them and not kill them in encounters." He also accused the past governments of the SP and the BSP of turning a blind eye to land grabbers. "After the formation of the Yogi Adityanath government, work of protecting the land of the poor has started. We have also put an end to illegal abattoirs in the state," he said. "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amid applause from the crowd. Shah also claimed that UP during the Sonia-Manmohan era got Rs 3.30 lakh crore, whereas when Modi became the prime minister, UP got funds amounting to Rs 10.27 lakh crore. The BJP chief also mentioned that it was the saffron party, which gave 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections without disturbing the quota for the backward people.

Only PM Modi can ensure national security: Amit Shah

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rajiv-gandhi-used-ins-vikrant-for-personal-holidays-pm-narendra-modi-217077">Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi"</a> on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation.

"But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference.

Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/desperate-congress-has-now-discovered-bjps-role-in-rajiv-gandhi-assassination-arun-jaitley-217221">Rajiv Gandhi</a> who is no more, Khera said has anyone read about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria.

"We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said.

Khera said Modi is the first Prime Minister who asks for votes on his "failures" and Pulwama was an example of this.

"It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security," Khera alleged.

The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he takes on foreign trips.

"We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi," he said 
Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi.

It was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government that decided against appealing the order, he said.

"We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale," Khera said.

"Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on Rafale, on unemployment, on demonetisation, on rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST," he said.

Earlier, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice".

"Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted.

"But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged.

Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him.

"Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had asked.

The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake.

"INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said.

Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89.

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi" on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation.

The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi" on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference. Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against Rajiv Gandhi who is no more, Khera said has anyone read about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria. "We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Khera said Modi is the first Prime Minister who asks for votes on his "failures" and Pulwama was an example of this. "It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security," Khera alleged. The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he takes on foreign trips. "We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi," he said Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi. It was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government that decided against appealing the order, he said. "We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale," Khera said. "Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on Rafale, on unemployment, on demonetisation, on rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST," he said. Earlier, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice". "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted. "But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged. Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89.

Modi does not have courage to fight elections on real issues: Congress on INS Viraat allegation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/masood-azhar-getting-designated-as-global-terrorist-big-win-for-bjp-adityanath-216664">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath </a>Wednesday alleged that the Congress doesn't deserve to get votes as it is "more concerned about Pakistan than India".

Addressing a poll rally in Madhya Pradesh&nbsp;to canvass for the BJP's Guna Lok Sabha seat candidate K P Yadav, Adityanath alleged that not only Congress president Rahul Gandhi, but his sister and the party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra too speaks lies.

"Rahul Gandhi does not deserve votes as he is more concerned about Pakistan. If India is in trouble, he doesn't think about the people," the BJP leader told an election meeting here.

He alleged that the Congress president sensed defeat in Amethi which is why he contested the polls also from Wayanad in Kerala.

Referring to a viral video, purportedly showing children using abusive language in front of Priyanka Gandhi, Adityanath alleged, "She was teaching abuses to children after people refused to vote for the Congress. This is not a good conduct on the part of a woman."

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier clarified that she had stopped children from raising wrong slogans and asked them to raise good slogans.

Adityanath also claimed that what the Narendra Modi government achieved in the last five years, the Congress could not do in 50 years.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday alleged that the Congress doesn't deserve to get votes as it is "more concerned about Pakistan than India".

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday alleged that the Congress doesn't deserve to get votes as it is "more concerned about Pakistan than India". Addressing a poll rally in Madhya Pradesh to canvass for the BJP's Guna Lok Sabha seat candidate K P Yadav, Adityanath alleged that not only Congress president Rahul Gandhi, but his sister and the party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra too speaks lies. "Rahul Gandhi does not deserve votes as he is more concerned about Pakistan. If India is in trouble, he doesn't think about the people," the BJP leader told an election meeting here. He alleged that the Congress president sensed defeat in Amethi which is why he contested the polls also from Wayanad in Kerala. Referring to a viral video, purportedly showing children using abusive language in front of Priyanka Gandhi, Adityanath alleged, "She was teaching abuses to children after people refused to vote for the Congress. This is not a good conduct on the part of a woman." Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier clarified that she had stopped children from raising wrong slogans and asked them to raise good slogans. Adityanath also claimed that what the Narendra Modi government achieved in the last five years, the Congress could not do in 50 years.

Congress more concerned about Pakistan than India: Adityanath

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-will-be-wasting-her-time-campaigning-in-the-national-capital-kejriwal-216999">Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal </a>Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of seeking votes in name of "fake nationalism" and said he has done nothing in the last five years except "jumlebaazi", foreign tours and lectures.

In response to Modi's comments that Delhi government brought "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance, Kejriwal said his party has addressed issues related to education, health, electricity and water and asked, "what have you done?".

In a tweet, Kejriwal charged, "Modi has done nothing in the last five years except jumlebaazi, foreign tours and lectures and that is the reason he is seeking votes in make of fake nationalism".

Kejriwal said, "The people of Delhi have sought answers of three questions from you for which you had no answers".

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हमने शिक्षा, स्वास्थ्य, बिजली, पानी-अनेक काम किए 
 
आपने 5 साल में क्या किया- भाषण, विदेश भ्रमण और जुमलेबाज़ी? और कुछ? 
 
इसीलिए आज आप फ़र्ज़ी और झूठे राष्ट्रवाद के नाम पर वोट माँग रहे हो 
 
दिल्ली वालों ने कल आपसे तीन सवाल पूछे थे। उनके आपके पास जवाब नहीं हैं <a href="https://t.co/3mFsgnxqWi">https://t.co/3mFsgnxqWi</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1126304318938738688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The "Aam Aadmi Party chief on Wednesday sought answer to three questions from Modi, "Why didn't the BJP pass an ordinance and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/will-stop-sealing-drives-in-delhi-if-we-get-all-7-lok-sabha-seats-says-arvind-kejriwal-216411/amp">stop sealing in Delhi</a>? In 2014, PM Narendra Modi promised full statehood for Delhi. Why did the BJP not grant full statehood? Why is Imran Khan endorsing Narendra Modi?"

In the tweet, Kejriwal tagged Modi's tweet in which he said Delhi government brought in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance."

Modi Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the AAP in his first rally in the national capital, accusing the Arvind Kejriwal-led government "of supporting the "tukde-tukde gang" and bringing in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance."

He said there are four models-- 'naampanthi' (dynastic politics), 'vaampanthi' (left politics) and dam and 'damanpanthi' (hooliganism) and 'vikaspanth' (those who believe in development).&nbsp;

"But Delhi is the only state where we learnt about the fifth model. Delhi has seen 'nakampanthi' (non-performance) which created anarchy and betrayed the people of the country," Modi said.

&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of seeking votes in name of "fake nationalism" and said he has done nothing in the last five years except "jumlebaazi", foreign tours and lectures.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of seeking votes in name of "fake nationalism" and said he has done nothing in the last five years except "jumlebaazi", foreign tours and lectures. In response to Modi's comments that Delhi government brought "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance, Kejriwal said his party has addressed issues related to education, health, electricity and water and asked, "what have you done?". In a tweet, Kejriwal charged, "Modi has done nothing in the last five years except jumlebaazi, foreign tours and lectures and that is the reason he is seeking votes in make of fake nationalism". Kejriwal said, "The people of Delhi have sought answers of three questions from you for which you had no answers". हमने शिक्षा, स्वास्थ्य, बिजली, पानी-अनेक काम किए आपने 5 साल में क्या किया- भाषण, विदेश भ्रमण और जुमलेबाज़ी? और कुछ? इसीलिए आज आप फ़र्ज़ी और झूठे राष्ट्रवाद के नाम पर वोट माँग रहे हो दिल्ली वालों ने कल आपसे तीन सवाल पूछे थे। उनके आपके पास जवाब नहीं हैं https://t.co/3mFsgnxqWi — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 9, 2019 × The "Aam Aadmi Party chief on Wednesday sought answer to three questions from Modi, "Why didn't the BJP pass an ordinance and stop sealing in Delhi? In 2014, PM Narendra Modi promised full statehood for Delhi. Why did the BJP not grant full statehood? Why is Imran Khan endorsing Narendra Modi?" In the tweet, Kejriwal tagged Modi's tweet in which he said Delhi government brought in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance." Modi Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the AAP in his first rally in the national capital, accusing the Arvind Kejriwal-led government "of supporting the "tukde-tukde gang" and bringing in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance." He said there are four models-- 'naampanthi' (dynastic politics), 'vaampanthi' (left politics) and dam and 'damanpanthi' (hooliganism) and 'vikaspanth' (those who believe in development). "But Delhi is the only state where we learnt about the fifth model. Delhi has seen 'nakampanthi' (non-performance) which created anarchy and betrayed the people of the country," Modi said.

Modi seeking votes in name of fake nationalism: Kejriwal

The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre and the Election Commission to debar Congress President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-citizenship-row-supreme-court-agrees-to-examine-petition-215259">Rahul Gandhi from contesting Lok Sabha elections</a> till the issue of his citizenship is decided.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi rejected the contention of the petitioners, who said that in a form along with the annual data of a UK-based company in 2005-06, it was allegedly mentioned that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-tenders-unconditional-apology-to-supreme-court-for-chowkidar-chor-hai-comment-216903">Rahul Gandhi</a> is a British citizen.

"If some company in some form mentions his nationality as British, does he become a British citizen," the bench also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna told the petitioners.&nbsp;

Last week, the Home Ministry had issued a notice acting on a complaint by BJP Rajya Sabha member Subramanian Swamy.

The complaint states that the Congress president had declared his nationality as British in a UK-based company.

The BJP leader demanded Rahul should dismiss these documents in a press conference and tell that he has not authenticated them.&nbsp;

The issue of Gandhi's dual citizenship was first raised by Subramanian Swamy in 2015, where he had written to the Prime Minister to deny the Congress president Indian citizenship. In November 2015, the Supreme Court has dismissed public interest litigation demanding CBI probe into the citizenship row noting that PILs were not meant to target one individual or organisation but was a medium to resolve human suffering through good governance.

A bench of then, Chief Justice of India H L Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had rubbished the plea questioning the source and authenticity of the documents attached to the&nbsp;petition.

In 2016, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan had forwarded to the parliamentary ethics committee, headed by veteran BJP leader L K Advani, Swamy's "complaint of ethical misconduct" against Gandhi that he had accessed documents in which the Congress leader had called himself "British".

In his reply to the ethics committee on the allegations of British citizenship, Gandhi had said he had never "sought or acquired British citizenship" and that his "identity is that of an Indian".

He also questioned the committee's decision to look into a "complaint that is not in order", claiming it was "an endeavour to malign" him.

The panel had issued a notice to him, seeking an explanation to whether he had once declared himself a British citizen on the legal papers of a company in the United Kingdom.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre and the Election Commission to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting Lok Sabha elections till the issue of his citizenship is decided.

The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre and the Election Commission to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting Lok Sabha elections till the issue of his citizenship is decided. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi rejected the contention of the petitioners, who said that in a form along with the annual data of a UK-based company in 2005-06, it was allegedly mentioned that Rahul Gandhi is a British citizen. "If some company in some form mentions his nationality as British, does he become a British citizen," the bench also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna told the petitioners. Last week, the Home Ministry had issued a notice acting on a complaint by BJP Rajya Sabha member Subramanian Swamy. The complaint states that the Congress president had declared his nationality as British in a UK-based company. The BJP leader demanded Rahul should dismiss these documents in a press conference and tell that he has not authenticated them. The issue of Gandhi's dual citizenship was first raised by Subramanian Swamy in 2015, where he had written to the Prime Minister to deny the Congress president Indian citizenship. In November 2015, the Supreme Court has dismissed public interest litigation demanding CBI probe into the citizenship row noting that PILs were not meant to target one individual or organisation but was a medium to resolve human suffering through good governance. A bench of then, Chief Justice of India H L Dattu and Justice Amitava Roy had rubbished the plea questioning the source and authenticity of the documents attached to the petition. In 2016, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan had forwarded to the parliamentary ethics committee, headed by veteran BJP leader L K Advani, Swamy's "complaint of ethical misconduct" against Gandhi that he had accessed documents in which the Congress leader had called himself "British". In his reply to the ethics committee on the allegations of British citizenship, Gandhi had said he had never "sought or acquired British citizenship" and that his "identity is that of an Indian". He also questioned the committee's decision to look into a "complaint that is not in order", claiming it was "an endeavour to malign" him. The panel had issued a notice to him, seeking an explanation to whether he had once declared himself a British citizen on the legal papers of a company in the United Kingdom. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court dismisses plea seeking to debar Rahul Gandhi from contesting Lok Sabha polls

The<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-issues-notice-to-pragya-singh-thakur-over-campaigning-despite-72-hour-ban-216032&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiNn7OFoIviAhWv63MBHSouDJIQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2xbkyjcJZTsUP6Fb-8TjtT"> Election Commission of India</a> (ECI) has declared `void`, polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12.

"After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission declared under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 11, 2019, at 168 polling stations in 1-Tripura West parliamentary constituency against the assembly segments to be void and appoints May 12 at the date and six hours from 7 am to 5 pm for taking a fresh poll," an official statement said.

The assembly segments in Tripura West include Simna (ST), Mohanpur, Bamutia (SC), Barjala (SC), Khayerpur, Ramnagar, Town Bordowali, Majlishpur, Mandai Bazar, Takarjala (ST), Pratapgarh (SC), Badharghat (SC), Kamalasagar, Bishalgarh, Golghati, Charilam, Boxanagar, Nalchar, Sonamura, Dhanpur, Bagma (ST), Radhakishorepur, Matabari, Kakraban-Salgarah (SC), Rajnagar (SC) and Belonia. The ECI directed the state`s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas.

It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. As per ECI, the voter turnout in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections conducted across 18 states and two Union Territories on April 11 was 69.43 per cent.

Tripura was among five states that saw the highest voter turnout. "84.96 per cent from Lakshadweep, 83.79 per cent from West Bengal, 83.26 per cent from Tripura, 83.12 per cent from Nagaland and 82.82 per cent from Manipur," the EC said. Polling for two parliamentary constituencies in Tripura was held in two phases - on April 11 and 18. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has declared `void`, polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has declared `void`, polls held at 168 polling stations in Tripura West parliamentary constituency on April 11 and ordered re-polling on May 12. "After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission declared under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll was taken on April 11, 2019, at 168 polling stations in 1-Tripura West parliamentary constituency against the assembly segments to be void and appoints May 12 at the date and six hours from 7 am to 5 pm for taking a fresh poll," an official statement said. The assembly segments in Tripura West include Simna (ST), Mohanpur, Bamutia (SC), Barjala (SC), Khayerpur, Ramnagar, Town Bordowali, Majlishpur, Mandai Bazar, Takarjala (ST), Pratapgarh (SC), Badharghat (SC), Kamalasagar, Bishalgarh, Golghati, Charilam, Boxanagar, Nalchar, Sonamura, Dhanpur, Bagma (ST), Radhakishorepur, Matabari, Kakraban-Salgarah (SC), Rajnagar (SC) and Belonia. The ECI directed the state`s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to ensure that wide publicity is given in the polling areas. It also directed the official to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. As per ECI, the voter turnout in the first phase of Lok Sabha elections conducted across 18 states and two Union Territories on April 11 was 69.43 per cent. Tripura was among five states that saw the highest voter turnout. "84.96 per cent from Lakshadweep, 83.79 per cent from West Bengal, 83.26 per cent from Tripura, 83.12 per cent from Nagaland and 82.82 per cent from Manipur," the EC said. Polling for two parliamentary constituencies in Tripura was held in two phases - on April 11 and 18. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission declares Tripura West polls 'void', re-polling on May 12

In this segment, WION Exclusive: Watch exclusive chat of WION with Mr. Andrew Whitehead, Former BBC India Correspondent over Indian LS Polls.

WION Exclusive: Watch exclusive talk of WION with Mr. Andrew Whitehead over Indian LS Polls

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India Election Watch; 08th May, 2019

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