Bharatiya Janata Party Bhopal candidate Pragya Singh Thakur has been sent a notice by District Election Officer here over a complaint of her campaigning during the 3-day period when she was barred by the EC from campaigning.

"I'm a Sanyasi. My life's base is spiritualism, Indian cultural symbols and values. If somebody stops me from practising this, I will leave it to their wisdom," said Thakur on the matter.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday debarred Thakur from campaigning for three days in the Lok Sabha polls in the wake of her remark that she is proud of Babri Masjid's demolition.

The remark was found violative of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by the poll body.

The district election officer sought a reply from Thakur on the notice.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party Bhopal candidate Pragya Singh Thakur has been sent a notice by District Election Officer here over a complaint of her campaigning during the 3-day period when she was barred by the EC from campaigning.

Bharatiya Janata Party Bhopal candidate Pragya Singh Thakur has been sent a notice by District Election Officer here over a complaint of her campaigning during the 3-day period when she was barred by the EC from campaigning. "I'm a Sanyasi. My life's base is spiritualism, Indian cultural symbols and values. If somebody stops me from practising this, I will leave it to their wisdom," said Thakur on the matter. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday debarred Thakur from campaigning for three days in the Lok Sabha polls in the wake of her remark that she is proud of Babri Masjid's demolition. The remark was found violative of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by the poll body. The district election officer sought a reply from Thakur on the notice.

Election Commission issues notice to Pragya Singh Thakur over 'campaigning despite 72-hour ban'

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and Kannada actor Prakash Raj will campaign for AAP's East Delhi candidate Atishi on Sunday, a party statement said.

Kafeel Khan, whose name surfaced in the death case of 63 children at Gorakhpur's BRD Medical College, will also be campaigning for the party candidate. The AAP claimed Khan was hailed as a "hero" for arranging jumbo oxygen cylinders to save dying kids.&nbsp;

Actor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/prakash-raj-to-campaign-for-aap-in-delhi-says-people-should-come-together-to-reclaim-the-republic-215873">Prakash Raj, who had announced his support for all AAP</a> candidates in Delhi, will campaign in the East Delhi constituency on Sunday, it said.&nbsp;

Personalities like Yashwant Sinha, Javed Jaffrey, Gul Panag, Rajmohan Gandhi, Admiral Ramdas and Omar Abdullah have already given a thumbs-up to Atishi.&nbsp;

The AAP candidate is locked in a three-way fight with BJP's Gautam Gambhir and Congress candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely.&nbsp;

Delhi goes to polls in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and Kannada actor Prakash Raj will campaign for AAP's East Delhi candidate Atishi on Sunday, a party statement said. Kafeel Khan, whose name surfaced in the death case of 63 children at Gorakhpur's BRD Medical College, will also be campaigning for the party candidate.

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and Kannada actor Prakash Raj will campaign for AAP's East Delhi candidate Atishi on Sunday, a party statement said. Kafeel Khan, whose name surfaced in the death case of 63 children at Gorakhpur's BRD Medical College, will also be campaigning for the party candidate. The AAP claimed Khan was hailed as a "hero" for arranging jumbo oxygen cylinders to save dying kids. Actor Prakash Raj, who had announced his support for all AAP candidates in Delhi, will campaign in the East Delhi constituency on Sunday, it said. Personalities like Yashwant Sinha, Javed Jaffrey, Gul Panag, Rajmohan Gandhi, Admiral Ramdas and Omar Abdullah have already given a thumbs-up to Atishi. The AAP candidate is locked in a three-way fight with BJP's Gautam Gambhir and Congress candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely. Delhi goes to polls in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. The results will be declared on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Jignesh Mevani to campaign for AAP's Atishi

Hitting out at the BJP for terming his party's rule in Uttar Pradesh as "gundaraj," Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday said that "let us know if a single FIR has been filed against us but show us FIR copies registered against state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath."

"They blamed us for gundaraj (hooliganism) in Uttar Pradesh. I want to say let us know if a single FIR has been filed against us. But also show us FIR copies registered against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath," Akhilesh Yadav said while addressing an election rally here.

"He has been charged under several sections. I can not even count them and you cannot even imagine what kind of sections he was charged under," he added.

The SP chief and former chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelled the nomination of his party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav from Varanasi.

"The government claims that it wants to end terrorism but it was afraid of a jawan."

Continuing his tirade against the BJP, Yadav said: "What are the BJP people bringing on roads? It is bulls. And bulls are hurting the people on roads. If a bull hurts anyone, what charges the police will impose on them? Will they register an FIR against a bull?"

Yadav wondered if a case will be filed against any bull if it hurts anyone and demanded that the FIR should be registered against Adityanath instead. He also claimed that seven people died in Lucknow because of the bulls.

Later, Akhilesh attacked Adityanath for branding him a 'tonti-chor'&nbsp;(a thief who steals water tap).

"The Chief Minister (UP CM Yogi Adityanath) and a few of his officials have taught 'chilam'&nbsp;(tobacco pipe) to PM Modi. Those who are calling us 'tonti tonti,'&nbsp;they are the one with chilam" (Mukhyamantri ji ne aur unke kuchh adhikariyo ne Pradhan Mantri ji ko bhi chilam sikha diya....Jo log humein keh rahe hain tonti-tonti, vahi hain chilam wale)."

Polling for 80 parliamentary seats in Uttar Pradesh is being held in all seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the BJP for terming his party's rule in Uttar Pradesh as "gundaraj," Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday said that "let us know if a single FIR has been filed against us but show us FIR copies registered against state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Hitting out at the BJP for terming his party's rule in Uttar Pradesh as "gundaraj," Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday said that "let us know if a single FIR has been filed against us but show us FIR copies registered against state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath." "They blamed us for gundaraj (hooliganism) in Uttar Pradesh. I want to say let us know if a single FIR has been filed against us. But also show us FIR copies registered against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath," Akhilesh Yadav said while addressing an election rally here. "He has been charged under several sections. I can not even count them and you cannot even imagine what kind of sections he was charged under," he added. The SP chief and former chief minister alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelled the nomination of his party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav from Varanasi. "The government claims that it wants to end terrorism but it was afraid of a jawan." Continuing his tirade against the BJP, Yadav said: "What are the BJP people bringing on roads? It is bulls. And bulls are hurting the people on roads. If a bull hurts anyone, what charges the police will impose on them? Will they register an FIR against a bull?" Yadav wondered if a case will be filed against any bull if it hurts anyone and demanded that the FIR should be registered against Adityanath instead. He also claimed that seven people died in Lucknow because of the bulls. Later, Akhilesh attacked Adityanath for branding him a 'tonti-chor' (a thief who steals water tap). "The Chief Minister (UP CM Yogi Adityanath) and a few of his officials have taught 'chilam' (tobacco pipe) to PM Modi. Those who are calling us 'tonti tonti,' they are the one with chilam" (Mukhyamantri ji ne aur unke kuchh adhikariyo ne Pradhan Mantri ji ko bhi chilam sikha diya....Jo log humein keh rahe hain tonti-tonti, vahi hain chilam wale)." Polling for 80 parliamentary seats in Uttar Pradesh is being held in all seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Let us know if even a single FIR was filed against us: Akhilesh Yadav to BJP

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist."&nbsp;

Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group.

"Congress party president Rahul Gandhi, in his typical cavalier fashion has continued his campaign of calumny, disinformation, distortion and malicious lies. Yesterday, he singled out our group chairman Anil D Ambani as allegedly a crony capitalist and dishonest businessman — all obviously patently untrue statements," the spokesperson further said in the statement.

"As is by now, customary for all of Rahul Gandhi's public statements, he has attributed no basis to these claims whatsoever, and neither has he provided any credible evidence at all to justify his derogatory and defamatory campaign."

Reliance Group spokesperson said: "We at the Reliance Group have chosen to ignore Rahul Gandhi's comments with continuing patience and restraint. We likewise dismiss his latest remark as yet another one of his multiple untruthful utterances, in the heat and dust of his electoral campaign, for which he has recently been facing contempt proceedings in the highest court of the land, the Hon'ble Supreme Court."

"We would like to remind Rahul Gandhi, that it was during the 10 year Congress-led UPA regime between 2004 and 2014 that Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group was awarded projects of over Rs 1,00,000 crore across diverse key nation-building infrastructure sectors such as power, telecom, roads, metro by a government led by none other than Rahul Gandhi's own political party - the Congress," said the spokesperson.

"The Reliance Group takes this opportunity to request Rahul Gandhi to clarify whether his government, for 10 long years, was supporting an alleged crony capitalist and dishonest businessman, to use Mr Gandhi's own words," the spokesperson said.

Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the BJP government for alleged wrongdoings in the Rafale deal and has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly of corruption, which the ruling party has outrightly denied.

The Congress president has alleged that Prime Minister Modi conducted "parallel negotiations" and cancelled the previous deal agreed by the UPA government, and gave Ambani firm's Reliance Defence the offset contract worth Rs 30,000 crore.

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist." Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group.

Reliance Group on Sunday dismissed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's claim that Anil Ambani is "a dishonest businessman and crony capitalist." Gandhi's claims are "patently untrue statements," said a spokesperson of Reliance Group. "Congress party president Rahul Gandhi, in his typical cavalier fashion has continued his campaign of calumny, disinformation, distortion and malicious lies. Yesterday, he singled out our group chairman Anil D Ambani as allegedly a crony capitalist and dishonest businessman — all obviously patently untrue statements," the spokesperson further said in the statement. "As is by now, customary for all of Rahul Gandhi's public statements, he has attributed no basis to these claims whatsoever, and neither has he provided any credible evidence at all to justify his derogatory and defamatory campaign." Reliance Group spokesperson said: "We at the Reliance Group have chosen to ignore Rahul Gandhi's comments with continuing patience and restraint. We likewise dismiss his latest remark as yet another one of his multiple untruthful utterances, in the heat and dust of his electoral campaign, for which he has recently been facing contempt proceedings in the highest court of the land, the Hon'ble Supreme Court." "We would like to remind Rahul Gandhi, that it was during the 10 year Congress-led UPA regime between 2004 and 2014 that Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group was awarded projects of over Rs 1,00,000 crore across diverse key nation-building infrastructure sectors such as power, telecom, roads, metro by a government led by none other than Rahul Gandhi's own political party - the Congress," said the spokesperson. "The Reliance Group takes this opportunity to request Rahul Gandhi to clarify whether his government, for 10 long years, was supporting an alleged crony capitalist and dishonest businessman, to use Mr Gandhi's own words," the spokesperson said. Gandhi has repeatedly levelled allegations against the BJP government for alleged wrongdoings in the Rafale deal and has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly of corruption, which the ruling party has outrightly denied. The Congress president has alleged that Prime Minister Modi conducted "parallel negotiations" and cancelled the previous deal agreed by the UPA government, and gave Ambani firm's Reliance Defence the offset contract worth Rs 30,000 crore.

Reliance Group dismisses Rahul Gandhi's charge of Anil Ambani being crony capitalist

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state. However, the state of affairs in Samdai village in Damoh region narrates a different story.

Samdai is facing a drought-like situation, with villagers threatening to boycott the elections if their demands are not met. People from as many as 18 villages of Damoh district submitted a letter before the District Collector on Saturday demanding ponds in every village in the district, among other things.

Villagers also demonstrated in front of the Collector's office holding placards that read "talaab nahi to vote nahi (no pond, no vote)" to show their anger.

Speaking to ANI, one of the demonstrators Savitri Devi said: "We have to walk for hours to fetch water. There is no alternative since we do not have a pond in our village."

Echoing similar sentiments, another demonstrator said: "We had earlier put our demands before Damoh MP Prahlad Singh Patel but to no avail. Officials do not pay heed to our demands. We will not vote in this election if our demands are not met this time."

Additional Collector Ananda Kopriya, however, assured that demands of the villagers will be met. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We have forwarded the letter. We will also talk to the villagers regarding the matter."

Back-to-back droughts and erratic rainfall pattern in the era of global warming has drastically affected the groundwater level in the state.

Madhya Pradesh went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. Next polling will be held in the fifth, sixth and seventh phases on May 6, 12 and 19, respectively. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state.

With three phases of Lok Sabha elections around the corner in the state, all political parties are putting their best foot forward promising best of development for the state. However, the state of affairs in Samdai village in Damoh region narrates a different story. Samdai is facing a drought-like situation, with villagers threatening to boycott the elections if their demands are not met. People from as many as 18 villages of Damoh district submitted a letter before the District Collector on Saturday demanding ponds in every village in the district, among other things. Villagers also demonstrated in front of the Collector's office holding placards that read "talaab nahi to vote nahi (no pond, no vote)" to show their anger. Speaking to ANI, one of the demonstrators Savitri Devi said: "We have to walk for hours to fetch water. There is no alternative since we do not have a pond in our village." Echoing similar sentiments, another demonstrator said: "We had earlier put our demands before Damoh MP Prahlad Singh Patel but to no avail. Officials do not pay heed to our demands. We will not vote in this election if our demands are not met this time." Additional Collector Ananda Kopriya, however, assured that demands of the villagers will be met. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We have forwarded the letter. We will also talk to the villagers regarding the matter." Back-to-back droughts and erratic rainfall pattern in the era of global warming has drastically affected the groundwater level in the state. Madhya Pradesh went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29. Next polling will be held in the fifth, sixth and seventh phases on May 6, 12 and 19, respectively. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

This Madhya Pradesh village threatens to boycott polls if water shortage issue not resolved

The Election Commission Saturday gave a clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Gujarat speech in which he had claimed that the Indian government had kept Pakistan on its toes to ensure the safe return of its pilot.

This is the sixth clean chit to Modi by the poll watchdog. Sources said the decision on the April 21 Patan speech was unanimous.

One of the election commissioners, according to the sources, gave a dissenting view in the EC's decision to give a clean chit to Modi with regard to his speech at Wardha on April 1, where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from the minority-dominated Wayanad seat in Kerala, and his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot airstrike and the CRPF jawans killed in the Pulwama terror attack on April 9.

He had also reportedly given dissent in the clean chit to BJP president Amit Shah for his Nagpur speech in which he had reportedly said that Wayanad constituency of Kerala is where the majority is minority.

In its Saturday's decision, the EC said, "...A detailed report of the chief electoral officer, Gujarat was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the model code of conduct. After examination, the commission is of the view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted."

In his Patan speech, Modi had reportedly said that he had warned Pakistan of "consequences" if it did not return Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured after an aerial dogfight with Pakistani F-16s that had violated Indian airspace and targeted military installations in February.

Pakistan released Varthaman on the night of March 1&nbsp;Modi also spoke of a US claim that India had kept 12 missiles ready.

So far, the EC has cleared six speeches of Modi, two of Shah and one of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

Gandhi had been issued a show cause notice for his Madhya Pradesh speech in which he had reportedly said that the government enacted a new law which allows tribals to be shot.

On March 19, the EC had issued an advisory asking parties not to invoke armed forces in their political campaign.&nbsp;

The Election Commission Saturday gave a clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Gujarat speech in which he had claimed that the Indian government had kept Pakistan on its toes to ensure the safe return of its pilot.

The Election Commission Saturday gave a clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Gujarat speech in which he had claimed that the Indian government had kept Pakistan on its toes to ensure the safe return of its pilot. This is the sixth clean chit to Modi by the poll watchdog. Sources said the decision on the April 21 Patan speech was unanimous. One of the election commissioners, according to the sources, gave a dissenting view in the EC's decision to give a clean chit to Modi with regard to his speech at Wardha on April 1, where he attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for contesting from the minority-dominated Wayanad seat in Kerala, and his appeal to first-time voters by invoking the Balakot airstrike and the CRPF jawans killed in the Pulwama terror attack on April 9. He had also reportedly given dissent in the clean chit to BJP president Amit Shah for his Nagpur speech in which he had reportedly said that Wayanad constituency of Kerala is where the majority is minority. In its Saturday's decision, the EC said, "...A detailed report of the chief electoral officer, Gujarat was obtained. The matter has been examined in detail in accordance with the extant advisories, provisions of the model code of conduct. After examination, the commission is of the view that in this matter no such violation of the extant advisories/provisions is attracted." In his Patan speech, Modi had reportedly said that he had warned Pakistan of "consequences" if it did not return Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured after an aerial dogfight with Pakistani F-16s that had violated Indian airspace and targeted military installations in February. Pakistan released Varthaman on the night of March 1 Modi also spoke of a US claim that India had kept 12 missiles ready. So far, the EC has cleared six speeches of Modi, two of Shah and one of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi had been issued a show cause notice for his Madhya Pradesh speech in which he had reportedly said that the government enacted a new law which allows tribals to be shot. On March 19, the EC had issued an advisory asking parties not to invoke armed forces in their political campaign.

No poll code violation by PM Modi in Patan speech: Election Commission

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again.

Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule. He earlier organised rallies at Sonipat and Panipat in Haryana, and at Pathankot in Punjab.

His rally in Haryana's Yamunanagar was cancelled. "I have come here to say if you make Narendra Modi PM again, India will emerge as a superpower in the world in next five years," the BJP chief told the gathering here. He was campaigning for BJP nominee and sitting MP from Chandigarh, Kirron Kher.

Dubbing the Congress-led opposition 'Mahamilavati' (highly adulterated) 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), Shah reiterated that only Narendra Modi can keep the country secure. "On one side, BJP and its alliance partners, and on the other hand, there is 'Mahamilavat Mahagathbandhan' whose leader is Rahul (Gandhi). Can they secure the country? Can they work for welfare of poor? Can they give a strong reply to terrorism? Can they give a strong reply to Pakistan?" he said.

The BJP leader said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were being fought not only for development. "Development of poor, villages, farmers, cities will be carried out by Modi. But the job of securing the country can only be done by Modi ji," he said.

Shah, who is contesting from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, yet again raised the issue of Balakot strikes and attacked the Congress for seeking proof of the strikes. He also vowed to scrap Article 370 (granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir) while asserting that Kashmir will always remain an integral part of India.

Shah also listed out the work carried out by the party in Chandigarh during the last five years. Chandigarh become kerosene-free city and every house here has LPG cylinder, he said, adding direct benefit transfer was introduced in the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS).

Chandigarh was also included in the first list of smart cities and work was carried out towards making the Chandigarh Railway Station as a model station, the BJP president said.

He said flats were constructed for 5,000 slum dwellers at the cost of Rs 155 crore. "For urban transportation, 84 buses were purchased for Rs 37 crore. An amount of Rs 42 crore was spent in sector 17 and an administrative building is being set up here at the cost of Rs 72 crore," Shah added.

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again. Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule.

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday asserted that India will emerge as a "superpower" in the next five years if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister again. Addressing his fourth rally in the states of Punjab and Haryana, Shah said the country was secure only under the Modi rule. He earlier organised rallies at Sonipat and Panipat in Haryana, and at Pathankot in Punjab. His rally in Haryana's Yamunanagar was cancelled. "I have come here to say if you make Narendra Modi PM again, India will emerge as a superpower in the world in next five years," the BJP chief told the gathering here. He was campaigning for BJP nominee and sitting MP from Chandigarh, Kirron Kher. Dubbing the Congress-led opposition 'Mahamilavati' (highly adulterated) 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), Shah reiterated that only Narendra Modi can keep the country secure. "On one side, BJP and its alliance partners, and on the other hand, there is 'Mahamilavat Mahagathbandhan' whose leader is Rahul (Gandhi). Can they secure the country? Can they work for welfare of poor? Can they give a strong reply to terrorism? Can they give a strong reply to Pakistan?" he said. The BJP leader said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were being fought not only for development. "Development of poor, villages, farmers, cities will be carried out by Modi. But the job of securing the country can only be done by Modi ji," he said. Shah, who is contesting from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, yet again raised the issue of Balakot strikes and attacked the Congress for seeking proof of the strikes. He also vowed to scrap Article 370 (granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir) while asserting that Kashmir will always remain an integral part of India. Shah also listed out the work carried out by the party in Chandigarh during the last five years. Chandigarh become kerosene-free city and every house here has LPG cylinder, he said, adding direct benefit transfer was introduced in the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS). Chandigarh was also included in the first list of smart cities and work was carried out towards making the Chandigarh Railway Station as a model station, the BJP president said. He said flats were constructed for 5,000 slum dwellers at the cost of Rs 155 crore. "For urban transportation, 84 buses were purchased for Rs 37 crore. An amount of Rs 42 crore was spent in sector 17 and an administrative building is being set up here at the cost of Rs 72 crore," Shah added.

India will become 'superpower' if Modi becomes PM again: Amit Shah

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP.

Addressing a poll meeting here, he said, "On May 23, when the election results are declared, 'bua' (BSP supremo Mayawati) will say 'babua' (SP chief Akhilesh Yadav) is the head of the goons and 'babua' will say 'bua' is the epitome of corruption. This is certain."

The Chief Minister said he will not allow any violence in Uttar Pradesh, adding, "We will issue an advisory so that the citizens are not caught in their violence."

Hitting out at the political rivals of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Adityanath said, "During the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, (Congress leader) Priyanka Gandhi had talked about the combination of two boys (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav).

"But Uttar Pradesh had said the pair was not of two boys, but of two oxen. The people of the state laugh over their education. We do not want (people with) the brains of an ox, but those who can usher in development."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that post-May 23, he will issue an advisory in view of the Lok Sabha poll results and the possibility of subsequent clashes between the workers of the SP and the BSP. Addressing a poll meeting here, he said, "On May 23, when the election results are declared, 'bua' (BSP supremo Mayawati) will say 'babua' (SP chief Akhilesh Yadav) is the head of the goons and 'babua' will say 'bua' is the epitome of corruption. This is certain." The Chief Minister said he will not allow any violence in Uttar Pradesh, adding, "We will issue an advisory so that the citizens are not caught in their violence." Hitting out at the political rivals of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Adityanath said, "During the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, (Congress leader) Priyanka Gandhi had talked about the combination of two boys (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav). "But Uttar Pradesh had said the pair was not of two boys, but of two oxen. The people of the state laugh over their education. We do not want (people with) the brains of an ox, but those who can usher in development."

Will issue advisory post May 23 in view of SP-BSP clashes: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

Lok Sabha polls 2019: All you need to know about rules of campaign financing and spending

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration.

"I am speechless today. I cannot imagine that one can stoop so low. A poor person was left to die because he had Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ayushman card but the hospital was of Rahul Gandhi," tweeted Irani along with a 122-second video clip.

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आज मैं निशब्द हूँ - कोई इतना गिर सकता है यह कभी नहीं सोचा था। 
 
एक ग़रीब को सिर्फ़ इसलिए मरने दिया क्यूँकि उसके पास मोदी का आयुष्मान कार्ड था पर अस्पताल राहुल गांधी का था। <a href="https://t.co/fSqEpK5A6S">pic.twitter.com/fSqEpK5A6S</a>
— Chowkidar Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1124946229572657152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the video, a young man can be heard saying that in Sanjay Gandhi hospital, Dr Sidhartha told him that Ayushman card won't work here because the hospital is run by the Congress and Rahul Gandhi. He had gone there for the treatment of his uncle.

Asked how his uncle is now, the man replies: "He died on April 26 itself." He also claims that the helpline number given on the Ayushman card could not provide the required help.

At the end of the video, a child introduced by the people as the son of the deceased appears.

Irani has demanded "answers" from Rahul and Priyanka for the alleged lapse on the part of the hospital administration.

"The trustees of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital -- Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi should reply to the people of Amethi as to why a poor person was killed," she said in a tweet.

The hospital management has rejected these allegations.

SM Choudhary, Director, Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, said: "It is a baseless allegation. We have treated 200 patients under the scheme so far. The concerned patient did not bring the Ayushman Bharat card with him. Under this scheme, a patient cannot be admitted without the card."

Ayushman Bharat is the flagship healthcare scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which covers 10 crore poor families, and entitle them to avail treatment up to Rs 5 lakh at the tertiary level.

Irani is facing Rahul Gandhi from Amethi Lok Sabah seat which is set to go to polls on May 6. Rahul has been winning the seat since 2004. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Rahul defeated Irani in Amethi.

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration.

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat Smriti Irani on Sunday alleged that Sanjay Gandhi hospital where Congress president Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are trustees refused to accept Ayushman card of a poor patient, a charge which was outrightly rejected by the hospital administration. "I am speechless today. I cannot imagine that one can stoop so low. A poor person was left to die because he had Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ayushman card but the hospital was of Rahul Gandhi," tweeted Irani along with a 122-second video clip. आज मैं निशब्द हूँ - कोई इतना गिर सकता है यह कभी नहीं सोचा था। एक ग़रीब को सिर्फ़ इसलिए मरने दिया क्यूँकि उसके पास मोदी का आयुष्मान कार्ड था पर अस्पताल राहुल गांधी का था। pic.twitter.com/fSqEpK5A6S — Chowkidar Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) May 5, 2019 × In the video, a young man can be heard saying that in Sanjay Gandhi hospital, Dr Sidhartha told him that Ayushman card won't work here because the hospital is run by the Congress and Rahul Gandhi. He had gone there for the treatment of his uncle. Asked how his uncle is now, the man replies: "He died on April 26 itself." He also claims that the helpline number given on the Ayushman card could not provide the required help. At the end of the video, a child introduced by the people as the son of the deceased appears. Irani has demanded "answers" from Rahul and Priyanka for the alleged lapse on the part of the hospital administration. "The trustees of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital -- Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi should reply to the people of Amethi as to why a poor person was killed," she said in a tweet. The hospital management has rejected these allegations. SM Choudhary, Director, Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, said: "It is a baseless allegation. We have treated 200 patients under the scheme so far. The concerned patient did not bring the Ayushman Bharat card with him. Under this scheme, a patient cannot be admitted without the card." Ayushman Bharat is the flagship healthcare scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which covers 10 crore poor families, and entitle them to avail treatment up to Rs 5 lakh at the tertiary level. Irani is facing Rahul Gandhi from Amethi Lok Sabah seat which is set to go to polls on May 6. Rahul has been winning the seat since 2004. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Rahul defeated Irani in Amethi.

Hospital with Rahul, Priyanka as trustees reject Ayushman card, says Smriti; hospital administration denies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's&nbsp;a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/terrorist-attacks-had-become-daily-affair-during-congress-pm-modi-in-rajasthan-215640">pathy and inability</a> is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.&nbsp;

Addressing an election rally in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, &nbsp;Modi told his supporters that each of their votes would inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour.

''Your every vote in favour of Modi will inspire him to fight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/appalled-to-see-congress-speaking-the-language-of-pakistan-pm-modi-215927">against terrorism</a> with vigour: Modi at MP rally,'' he said.&nbsp;

''Perhaps, after 1977, after the emergency, this is the first election, where the people of the country are contesting to bring the current government back to power,'' Modi said and added, after 4 phases of Lok Sabha polls, trends show Congress and its allies staring at defeat.&nbsp;

Modi also targetted Rahul Gandhi for his alleged association with UK firm Backops and said his scams are being unearthed from land, air and water.

Attacking Rahul Gandhi on his former business partner allegedly acquiring defence offset contracts under the UPA regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said the Congress President was “a man who aspired to be a defence deal pusher and today aspires to be India’s Prime Minister”.

Due to Congress's "criminal apathy", India was deprived of basic amenities in first 25 years of Independence, Modi said.&nbsp;

Accusing Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, Amethi of denying treatment to a man because he was carrying Ayushman card, Modi said ''There is a hospital in Amethi whose trustee is a person from 'naamdar family', a few days ago a poor man went there for treatment with his Ayushman card, hospital denied him treatment because he was carrying the Ayushman Bharat card given by Modi,'' he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's apathy and inability is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's apathy and inability is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. Addressing an election rally in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Modi told his supporters that each of their votes would inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour. ''Your every vote in favour of Modi will inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour: Modi at MP rally,'' he said. ''Perhaps, after 1977, after the emergency, this is the first election, where the people of the country are contesting to bring the current government back to power,'' Modi said and added, after 4 phases of Lok Sabha polls, trends show Congress and its allies staring at defeat. Modi also targetted Rahul Gandhi for his alleged association with UK firm Backops and said his scams are being unearthed from land, air and water. Attacking Rahul Gandhi on his former business partner allegedly acquiring defence offset contracts under the UPA regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said the Congress President was “a man who aspired to be a defence deal pusher and today aspires to be India’s Prime Minister”. Due to Congress's "criminal apathy", India was deprived of basic amenities in first 25 years of Independence, Modi said. Accusing Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, Amethi of denying treatment to a man because he was carrying Ayushman card, Modi said ''There is a hospital in Amethi whose trustee is a person from 'naamdar family', a few days ago a poor man went there for treatment with his Ayushman card, hospital denied him treatment because he was carrying the Ayushman Bharat card given by Modi,'' he said.

Congress' apathy and inability is genesis of terrorism and Naxalism: PM Modi

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices.

The West Bengal chief minister said her government has showered the impoverished Jangalmahal area, which had once become a den of Maoists, with many benefits and schemes to lift their standard of life.

The Jangalmahal area comprises forested areas of West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts.

"I cannot say 100 per cent workers of my party are good, maybe two per cent is bad and we take action against them," Banerjee said addressing public rallies in three places of Jangalmahal region.

She said a few local leaders in the region have become greedy but they have been identified and thrown out. Banerjee urged people not to leave the TMC and go to the BJP, the Congress or the CPI(M) for the fault of a few.

"Whatever happens, it is the TMC which will remain at your feet and be with you in all your needs and problems," Banerjee said, in a bid to pacify anger among some sections of the people over the phenomenal rise of wealth of a few local TMC leaders.

Banerjee said her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who is the TMC youth wing president, is in the party because of his concern for her.

"Abhishek was a child when I was badly injured in an attack many years ago. Pained by my sufferings, he would roam about the house shouting slogans against the then chief minister Jyoti Basu seeking an answer on why I was attacked," the TMC supremo said.

Defending Abhishek's rise in the party, she said the new generation should come forward and join politics to give a cleaner political environment.

She said the TMC has ushered in a better life for the impoverished people of Jangalmahal, many of whom could not afford one square meal a day and would eat ants to quell their hunger.

Banerjee said her government is running many welfare schemes - from rice for Rs two per kg to 'Kanyashree' for girl students and 'Utkarsha Bangla' for skill development for the benefit of the people.

The chief minister said her government has succeeded in driving out the Maoists from Jangalmahal and established peace in the region. Claiming that Narendra Modi is the biggest "calamity for the country", she said the country will be saved if he goes.

"The BJP can get a maximum 150 to 160 seats out of 543 in the Lok Sabha," the TMC supremo predicted while asserting that in Bengal, the saffron party will not be able to open its account and all the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state will go to her party. She accused the saffron party of distributing the money among the people to win votes.

Banerjee claimed that the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has not done anything for the people of the country in its five-year rule and reiterated his accusation that the Prime Minister has only toured foreign countries.

She claimed that demonetisation has claimed at least 100 lives, while farm sector distresses have led to the suicide of 12,000 farmers. "Demonetisation led to the displacement of migrant workers and loss of millions of jobs," she said.

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices.

Admitting that a few local leaders of the party may be "greedy", Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee Sunday urged people not to turn their anger against them into voting against the TMC, claiming that its central leadership is above such vices. The West Bengal chief minister said her government has showered the impoverished Jangalmahal area, which had once become a den of Maoists, with many benefits and schemes to lift their standard of life. The Jangalmahal area comprises forested areas of West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts. "I cannot say 100 per cent workers of my party are good, maybe two per cent is bad and we take action against them," Banerjee said addressing public rallies in three places of Jangalmahal region. She said a few local leaders in the region have become greedy but they have been identified and thrown out. Banerjee urged people not to leave the TMC and go to the BJP, the Congress or the CPI(M) for the fault of a few. "Whatever happens, it is the TMC which will remain at your feet and be with you in all your needs and problems," Banerjee said, in a bid to pacify anger among some sections of the people over the phenomenal rise of wealth of a few local TMC leaders. Banerjee said her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who is the TMC youth wing president, is in the party because of his concern for her. "Abhishek was a child when I was badly injured in an attack many years ago. Pained by my sufferings, he would roam about the house shouting slogans against the then chief minister Jyoti Basu seeking an answer on why I was attacked," the TMC supremo said. Defending Abhishek's rise in the party, she said the new generation should come forward and join politics to give a cleaner political environment. She said the TMC has ushered in a better life for the impoverished people of Jangalmahal, many of whom could not afford one square meal a day and would eat ants to quell their hunger. Banerjee said her government is running many welfare schemes - from rice for Rs two per kg to 'Kanyashree' for girl students and 'Utkarsha Bangla' for skill development for the benefit of the people. The chief minister said her government has succeeded in driving out the Maoists from Jangalmahal and established peace in the region. Claiming that Narendra Modi is the biggest "calamity for the country", she said the country will be saved if he goes. "The BJP can get a maximum 150 to 160 seats out of 543 in the Lok Sabha," the TMC supremo predicted while asserting that in Bengal, the saffron party will not be able to open its account and all the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state will go to her party. She accused the saffron party of distributing the money among the people to win votes. Banerjee claimed that the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has not done anything for the people of the country in its five-year rule and reiterated his accusation that the Prime Minister has only toured foreign countries. She claimed that demonetisation has claimed at least 100 lives, while farm sector distresses have led to the suicide of 12,000 farmers. "Demonetisation led to the displacement of migrant workers and loss of millions of jobs," she said.

Mamata Banerjee urges people not to leave TMC for a few greedy leaders

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes.

Addressing a rally here, Shah also called upon the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made the country secure.

"There were only two countries who avenged the killing of their soldiers-- America and Israel. But Modi ji has added the name of India in this list," Shah said referring to the air strikes in Pakistan following the death of 40 CRPF jawans in Pulwama.

Shah lashed out at the opposition especially Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for demanding proof of the air strikes.

"Everybody was celebrating it (Balakot strikes). But there was mourning at two places-- Pakistan and Rahul (Gandhi) baba's office. Modi ji killed Pakistan's terrorists but why were their (opposition) faces pale? Were they (terrorists) related to you?" asked Shah.

"They were worried about their vote bank," he said. "If you have any common sense, see Pakistan TV channels and find out why people there were crying. It will reveal what happened there," he said further.

The BJP president also targeted Congress leader Sam Pitroda, a long-time Gandhi family advisor and a key aide of the Gandhi scion. "Rahul baba's guru Sam Pitroda said do not bomb (Pakistan) but talk to them. People of Panipat, you tell me whether we should talk to them if our 40 jawans are killed?," asked Shah.

The BJP chief further said that the Congress can continue sympathising with the terrorists but "if any bullet is fired from Pakistan, we will reply with a bomb".

"There will never be a compromise on national security. Elections come and go but the BJP will never compromise on national security. Country's security will remain our supreme priority," he said.

Attacking the Congress-led UPA rule of 10 years, Shah alleged that soldiers deployed at the border used to be beheaded by Pakistan but 'Mauni baba', referring to former prime minister Manmohan Singh remained silent.

"I can never forget the incident of the beheading of Hemraj (soldier) but Mauni baba remained mum," he said. "After Pulwama attack in which our 40 jawans were killed, there was anger across the country.

Pakistan secured its border by deploying more soldiers and tanks in anticipation of another surgical strike. But Modi Ji showed his 56-inch chest and the Indian Air Force bombed Balakot," he added.

On January 8, 2013, Lance Naik Hemraj was beheaded by Pakistan's Border Action Team along the Indo-Pak border, triggering a nationwide outrage.

Shah further told the gathering that the BJP government was committed to "throw out" all infiltrators and slammed opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, CPI leader Sita Ram Yechury among others for opposing the government.

"You tell me should we not throw infiltrators out of our country. Modi ji brought National Register of Citizens (NRC). Assam has 40 lakh infiltrators," he said, adding that the opposition was worried about where the infiltrators will go and what will they eat.

"Rahul baba do these infiltrators who carry out bomb blasts and kill innocents here have human rights? You do not have any concern for those who are killed. These infiltrators are like termites and they should be thrown out," he said.

"I want to tell you from this historic land of Panipat that if you elect Modi ji as PM again, each infiltrator from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kolkata to Kutch will be thrown out," he told the crowd.

Shah also condemned National Conference leader Omar Abdullah for suggesting that the nomenclature 'Wazir-e-Azam' (Prime Minister) and 'Sadr-e-Riyasat' (Governor) will be brought back in the state if it is voted to power.

"Omar Abdullah said he wants second prime minister in Kashmir. mar and Congress are fighting polls in alliance. I want to ask Rahul baba whether he agrees with Omar's remarks," Shah said.

"Can there be two PMs in one country? Friends they want to separate Kashmir from the country. But the BJP workers will never allow Kashmir to be separated from India as it an integral part of India. Make us victorious. We have promised that we will scrap Article 370 (granting special status to J-K)," he said.

Seeking support for BJP candidate from Karnal parliamentary seat Sanjay Bhatia, Shah said: "If Modi ji is at the Centre and Manohar Lal Khattar is here, then Haryana will progress. We will make Haryana number one state in the country".

Shah also lashed out at the previous regimes in the state and accused the Congress of indulging in corruption and the INLD led by the Chautalas of failing to curb lawlessness.

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes.

BJP chief Amit Shah Sunday said the nation's security will remain the saffron party's "supreme priority" as he attacked the opposition including the Congress for allegedly demanding proof of the Balakot air strikes. Addressing a rally here, Shah also called upon the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made the country secure. "There were only two countries who avenged the killing of their soldiers-- America and Israel. But Modi ji has added the name of India in this list," Shah said referring to the air strikes in Pakistan following the death of 40 CRPF jawans in Pulwama. Shah lashed out at the opposition especially Congress chief Rahul Gandhi for demanding proof of the air strikes. "Everybody was celebrating it (Balakot strikes). But there was mourning at two places-- Pakistan and Rahul (Gandhi) baba's office. Modi ji killed Pakistan's terrorists but why were their (opposition) faces pale? Were they (terrorists) related to you?" asked Shah. "They were worried about their vote bank," he said. "If you have any common sense, see Pakistan TV channels and find out why people there were crying. It will reveal what happened there," he said further. The BJP president also targeted Congress leader Sam Pitroda, a long-time Gandhi family advisor and a key aide of the Gandhi scion. "Rahul baba's guru Sam Pitroda said do not bomb (Pakistan) but talk to them. People of Panipat, you tell me whether we should talk to them if our 40 jawans are killed?," asked Shah. The BJP chief further said that the Congress can continue sympathising with the terrorists but "if any bullet is fired from Pakistan, we will reply with a bomb". "There will never be a compromise on national security. Elections come and go but the BJP will never compromise on national security. Country's security will remain our supreme priority," he said. Attacking the Congress-led UPA rule of 10 years, Shah alleged that soldiers deployed at the border used to be beheaded by Pakistan but 'Mauni baba', referring to former prime minister Manmohan Singh remained silent. "I can never forget the incident of the beheading of Hemraj (soldier) but Mauni baba remained mum," he said. "After Pulwama attack in which our 40 jawans were killed, there was anger across the country. Pakistan secured its border by deploying more soldiers and tanks in anticipation of another surgical strike. But Modi Ji showed his 56-inch chest and the Indian Air Force bombed Balakot," he added. On January 8, 2013, Lance Naik Hemraj was beheaded by Pakistan's Border Action Team along the Indo-Pak border, triggering a nationwide outrage. Shah further told the gathering that the BJP government was committed to "throw out" all infiltrators and slammed opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, CPI leader Sita Ram Yechury among others for opposing the government. "You tell me should we not throw infiltrators out of our country. Modi ji brought National Register of Citizens (NRC). Assam has 40 lakh infiltrators," he said, adding that the opposition was worried about where the infiltrators will go and what will they eat. "Rahul baba do these infiltrators who carry out bomb blasts and kill innocents here have human rights? You do not have any concern for those who are killed. These infiltrators are like termites and they should be thrown out," he said. "I want to tell you from this historic land of Panipat that if you elect Modi ji as PM again, each infiltrator from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kolkata to Kutch will be thrown out," he told the crowd. Shah also condemned National Conference leader Omar Abdullah for suggesting that the nomenclature 'Wazir-e-Azam' (Prime Minister) and 'Sadr-e-Riyasat' (Governor) will be brought back in the state if it is voted to power. "Omar Abdullah said he wants second prime minister in Kashmir. mar and Congress are fighting polls in alliance. I want to ask Rahul baba whether he agrees with Omar's remarks," Shah said. "Can there be two PMs in one country? Friends they want to separate Kashmir from the country. But the BJP workers will never allow Kashmir to be separated from India as it an integral part of India. Make us victorious. We have promised that we will scrap Article 370 (granting special status to J-K)," he said. Seeking support for BJP candidate from Karnal parliamentary seat Sanjay Bhatia, Shah said: "If Modi ji is at the Centre and Manohar Lal Khattar is here, then Haryana will progress. We will make Haryana number one state in the country". Shah also lashed out at the previous regimes in the state and accused the Congress of indulging in corruption and the INLD led by the Chautalas of failing to curb lawlessness.

Nation's security supreme priority for BJP: Amit Shah

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Yadav, who is contesting the Lok Sabha poll from Madhepura in Bihar as an RJD candidate, asserted that polarisation of most of the backward castes, Dalits and Muslims have taken place in favour of the opposition alliance in the state.

The alliance of the Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD, Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP among others will clinch as many seats as the NDA had in 2014, Sharad Yadav told PTI in an interview, asserting that there is anger among the poor due to agrarian distress.

The NDA had won 31 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 in Bihar, while the opposition alliance had got nine.

Yadav dismissed the claims of top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that the NDA is set to retain power at the Centre. He alleged a section of media has been "used" by the BJP leaders to "beat their drums" but the reality on the ground is vastly different from what is shown on TV.

"Where is the BJP winning? Their seats will be reduced significantly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The SP-BSP alliance is far ahead of them in UP. They are losing in Bihar and also in Jharkhand. That the Modi government will be out of power on May 23 is certain," he said.

Four phases of the seven-phase general election have been held so far and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 23.

Asked about the BJP's campaign plank of nationalism and national security, Yadav alleged the nationalism for the saffron party is all about Hindu-Muslim issues under the garb of Kashmir and Pakistan.

"Their nationalism is all sentiments and exclude people. Are farmers' welfare, employment for youths and reducing poverty of Dalits and backwards not nationalism? But it is of no concern to the BJP," Yadav said.

India had divided Pakistan in 1971 and its forces had marched closer to Lahore in 1965 under the Congress governments, he said, adding that Sikkim had merged with India in 1975 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister.

"This is nationalism. What is their nationalism? It is all Hindu-Musalman for them," he said, attacking the BJP.

He alleged the Modi government's policies have caused massive distress among farmers and the farmers in Bihar were forced to sell maize for as low as Rs 900 per quintal against its MSP of close to Rs 1425.

The government's claim of 'Vikas' (development) is a sham, he alleged, adding that unemployment, lack of opportunities and farm distress will result in the BJP's loss. Demonetisation caused a loss of over four crore jobs, he alleged.

In Bihar, he said the entry of leaders like Upendra Kushwaha, Jitan Ram Manjhi and Mukesh Sahni has broadened the base of the opposition alliance and led to a consolidation of Dalit and backward castes in its favour.

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Expressing confidence that the opposition alliance will decimate the ruling NDA in Bihar, senior leader Sharad Yadav claimed Sunday that the Modi government is on its way out due to the BJP's poor show in Hindi heartland states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Yadav, who is contesting the Lok Sabha poll from Madhepura in Bihar as an RJD candidate, asserted that polarisation of most of the backward castes, Dalits and Muslims have taken place in favour of the opposition alliance in the state. The alliance of the Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD, Congress and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP among others will clinch as many seats as the NDA had in 2014, Sharad Yadav told PTI in an interview, asserting that there is anger among the poor due to agrarian distress. The NDA had won 31 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 in Bihar, while the opposition alliance had got nine. Yadav dismissed the claims of top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that the NDA is set to retain power at the Centre. He alleged a section of media has been "used" by the BJP leaders to "beat their drums" but the reality on the ground is vastly different from what is shown on TV. "Where is the BJP winning? Their seats will be reduced significantly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The SP-BSP alliance is far ahead of them in UP. They are losing in Bihar and also in Jharkhand. That the Modi government will be out of power on May 23 is certain," he said. Four phases of the seven-phase general election have been held so far and the counting of votes is scheduled for May 23. Asked about the BJP's campaign plank of nationalism and national security, Yadav alleged the nationalism for the saffron party is all about Hindu-Muslim issues under the garb of Kashmir and Pakistan. "Their nationalism is all sentiments and exclude people. Are farmers' welfare, employment for youths and reducing poverty of Dalits and backwards not nationalism? But it is of no concern to the BJP," Yadav said. India had divided Pakistan in 1971 and its forces had marched closer to Lahore in 1965 under the Congress governments, he said, adding that Sikkim had merged with India in 1975 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister. "This is nationalism. What is their nationalism? It is all Hindu-Musalman for them," he said, attacking the BJP. He alleged the Modi government's policies have caused massive distress among farmers and the farmers in Bihar were forced to sell maize for as low as Rs 900 per quintal against its MSP of close to Rs 1425. The government's claim of 'Vikas' (development) is a sham, he alleged, adding that unemployment, lack of opportunities and farm distress will result in the BJP's loss. Demonetisation caused a loss of over four crore jobs, he alleged. In Bihar, he said the entry of leaders like Upendra Kushwaha, Jitan Ram Manjhi and Mukesh Sahni has broadened the base of the opposition alliance and led to a consolidation of Dalit and backward castes in its favour.

Polarisation among most backward castes, Dalits, Muslims in favour of Opposition alliance: Sharad Yadav

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Saturday tried to contact West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as his calls were not returned, a top government official has said.

The prime minister then spoke to state governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, the official said.

"Two attempts were made by the prime minister's staff to connect Modi with Banerjee over the phone. On both the occasions they were told that the call would be returned. On one occasion they were told that the CM is on tour," the official said.

The statement came after the Trinamool Congress hit out at Modi for not talking to Banerjee about the ground situation in the state in wake of the cyclone.

The prime minister had tweeted about his discussion with the governor.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Saturday tried to contact West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as his calls were not returned, a top government official has said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Saturday tried to contact West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as his calls were not returned, a top government official has said. The prime minister then spoke to state governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, the official said. "Two attempts were made by the prime minister's staff to connect Modi with Banerjee over the phone. On both the occasions they were told that the call would be returned. On one occasion they were told that the CM is on tour," the official said. The statement came after the Trinamool Congress hit out at Modi for not talking to Banerjee about the ground situation in the state in wake of the cyclone. The prime minister had tweeted about his discussion with the governor.

PM Modi could not talk to Mamata over cyclone as his calls were not returned: Official

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday reacted on being attacked by a man on Saturday and said that the attack indicated that whoever speaks against PM Modi will not be spared.

Kejriwal's remarks came just a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-supporter-slapped-kejriwal-as-he-was-dissatisfied-with-party-leaders-police-216026">he was slapped by a man</a>, who was later identified as an AAP supporter, in Delhi during a roadshow.&nbsp;

"This is a sign of dictatorship, to silence those who raise voice against you. This attacker was sent to give out the message that no one, who raises voice against the PM, will be spared," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Delhi CM: This was 9th attack on me in last 5 yrs &amp; 5th attack after becoming CM. I don't think in India's history there has been such attacks on any CM. In this country Delhi CM is the only only CM whose security's responsibility is in the hands of opposition party that is BJP. <a href="https://t.co/jPwGTuroDY">pic.twitter.com/jPwGTuroDY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1124928917792407552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This was the 9th attack on me in the last 5 years and the fifth attack after becoming the CM. I don't think in India's history there have been such attacks on any CM. In this country, Delhi CM is the only CM whose security's responsibility is in the hands of the opposition party that is BJP," he added.&nbsp;

An AAP supporter slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on Saturday because he was dissatisfied with the behaviour of the party leaders, police said.

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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: A Chief Minister was attacked and the Central govt says, 'didn't receive the complaint, unable to move ahead with further proceedings, the PM should resign over it. It's not an attack on Arvind Kejriwal, it is an attack on Delhi's mandate. <a href="https://t.co/RsUlRFhlVn">pic.twitter.com/RsUlRFhlVn</a>
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Kejriwal was atop an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before being pulled off the jeep, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: Is hamlawar ko isliye bheja gaya, ye message dene ki koshish ki ja rahi hai desh ko, ki modi ji ke khilaaf jo bhi bolega is desh ke andar usko bakhsha nahi jaega. Ye tanashahi ki nishaani hai ki apne khilaaf har aawaz ko band kar diya jaye. <a href="https://t.co/YZVfNztxOg">pic.twitter.com/YZVfNztxOg</a>
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The 33-year-old man, identified as Suresh, who is a scrap dealer in the area, has been a supporter of the Aam Aadmi Party and used to work as an organiser of the party's rallies and meetings, they said.

"An enquiry by a DCP-level officer has been ordered to enquire as to how this person was allowed to be in the reception or proximate group," Anil Mittal, Additional PRO (Delhi Police) said.

According to his version, over a period of time, Suresh got disenchanted due to the behaviour of the AAP leaders. His anger intensified due to "distrust of the party in the armed forces", the official said, adding further interrogation is on in the matter.

The AAP, however, alleged that the Delhi Police had planted that the man belonged to the party.

The AAP roadshow was organised from 4 pm to 10 pm in Moti Nagar. It was scheduled to start from Karampura and was to terminate at RK Ashram Marg, it said.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday reacted on being attacked by a man on Saturday and said that the attack indicated that whoever speaks against PM Modi will not be spared.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday reacted on being attacked by a man on Saturday and said that the attack indicated that whoever speaks against PM Modi will not be spared. Kejriwal's remarks came just a day after he was slapped by a man, who was later identified as an AAP supporter, in Delhi during a roadshow. "This is a sign of dictatorship, to silence those who raise voice against you. This attacker was sent to give out the message that no one, who raises voice against the PM, will be spared," Kejriwal said. Delhi CM: This was 9th attack on me in last 5 yrs & 5th attack after becoming CM. I don't think in India's history there has been such attacks on any CM. In this country Delhi CM is the only only CM whose security's responsibility is in the hands of opposition party that is BJP. pic.twitter.com/jPwGTuroDY — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2019 × "This was the 9th attack on me in the last 5 years and the fifth attack after becoming the CM. I don't think in India's history there have been such attacks on any CM. In this country, Delhi CM is the only CM whose security's responsibility is in the hands of the opposition party that is BJP," he added. An AAP supporter slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on Saturday because he was dissatisfied with the behaviour of the party leaders, police said. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: A Chief Minister was attacked and the Central govt says, 'didn't receive the complaint, unable to move ahead with further proceedings, the PM should resign over it. It's not an attack on Arvind Kejriwal, it is an attack on Delhi's mandate. pic.twitter.com/RsUlRFhlVn — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2019 × Kejriwal was atop an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before being pulled off the jeep, news agency PTI reported. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: Is hamlawar ko isliye bheja gaya, ye message dene ki koshish ki ja rahi hai desh ko, ki modi ji ke khilaaf jo bhi bolega is desh ke andar usko bakhsha nahi jaega. Ye tanashahi ki nishaani hai ki apne khilaaf har aawaz ko band kar diya jaye. pic.twitter.com/YZVfNztxOg — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2019 × The 33-year-old man, identified as Suresh, who is a scrap dealer in the area, has been a supporter of the Aam Aadmi Party and used to work as an organiser of the party's rallies and meetings, they said. "An enquiry by a DCP-level officer has been ordered to enquire as to how this person was allowed to be in the reception or proximate group," Anil Mittal, Additional PRO (Delhi Police) said. According to his version, over a period of time, Suresh got disenchanted due to the behaviour of the AAP leaders. His anger intensified due to "distrust of the party in the armed forces", the official said, adding further interrogation is on in the matter. The AAP, however, alleged that the Delhi Police had planted that the man belonged to the party. The AAP roadshow was organised from 4 pm to 10 pm in Moti Nagar. It was scheduled to start from Karampura and was to terminate at RK Ashram Marg, it said. (With inputs from PTI)

Don't think there have been such attacks on any chief minister in nation's history: Arvind Kejriwal 

The Election Commission on Saturday issued a show-cause notice to BJP's Chandigarh Lok Sabha candidate Kirron Kher for sharing a campaign video featuring children on Twitter.

Giving her 24 hours time to reply to the notice, the Office of District Nodal Officer said that it had received a complaint along with a video link in which children could be seen actively participating in election campaign shouting slogans like "Vote for Kirron Kher and Ab ki baar Modi Sarkar".

The complaint was filed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCH) requesting the Election Commission of India to ensure that children are not involved in any form with election-related activities.

Kirron Kher will be contesting against old rival Pawan Kumar Bansal from the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission on Saturday issued a show-cause notice to BJP's Chandigarh Lok Sabha candidate Kirron Kher for sharing a campaign video featuring children on Twitter.

The Election Commission on Saturday issued a show-cause notice to BJP's Chandigarh Lok Sabha candidate Kirron Kher for sharing a campaign video featuring children on Twitter. Giving her 24 hours time to reply to the notice, the Office of District Nodal Officer said that it had received a complaint along with a video link in which children could be seen actively participating in election campaign shouting slogans like "Vote for Kirron Kher and Ab ki baar Modi Sarkar". The complaint was filed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCH) requesting the Election Commission of India to ensure that children are not involved in any form with election-related activities. Kirron Kher will be contesting against old rival Pawan Kumar Bansal from the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission seeks Kirron Kher's reply over campaign video featuring children

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;are full of instances of violence and battles.

Yoga Guru Ramdev along with other seers had earlier today filed a complaint with SSP, Haridwar, against Yechury.

"We have filed a complaint against Yechury, who has insulted our ancestors. It is an offence. He should be put behind the bars. We have demanded a strict investigation into the matter," Ramdev said.

On Thursday, Yechury attacked BJP for fragmenting society for votes through its divisive policies, branding religious epics 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;as specimens of Hindu violence."

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur said that Hindus don`t believe in violence. Many kings and principalities have fought battles in the country. Even 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;are also filled with instances of violence," he had said.

"Being a 'Pracharak,'&nbsp;you narrate the epics but still claim Hindus can`t be violent? What is the logic behind saying there is a religion which engages in violence and we Hindus don`t," he had said.

Since then, several leaders have criticised Yechury for making the remark, with the Shiv Sena saying that the CPI-M general secretary should drop his name 'Sitaram.'

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are full of instances of violence and battles.

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are full of instances of violence and battles. Yoga Guru Ramdev along with other seers had earlier today filed a complaint with SSP, Haridwar, against Yechury. "We have filed a complaint against Yechury, who has insulted our ancestors. It is an offence. He should be put behind the bars. We have demanded a strict investigation into the matter," Ramdev said. On Thursday, Yechury attacked BJP for fragmenting society for votes through its divisive policies, branding religious epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' as specimens of Hindu violence." Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur said that Hindus don`t believe in violence. Many kings and principalities have fought battles in the country. Even 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are also filled with instances of violence," he had said. "Being a 'Pracharak,' you narrate the epics but still claim Hindus can`t be violent? What is the logic behind saying there is a religion which engages in violence and we Hindus don`t," he had said. Since then, several leaders have criticised Yechury for making the remark, with the Shiv Sena saying that the CPI-M general secretary should drop his name 'Sitaram.'

FIR registered against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a roadshow in Moti Nagar in the New Delhi constituency, prompting a strong reaction from the AAP which alleged the BJP was behind the "cowardly act".

Police said the man has been taken into the custody and an investigation into the matter is underway.

Kejriwal was on an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before he was pulled off the jeep.

DCP (West) Monika Bhardwaj said the man has been identified as Suresh, 33, and he deals in spare parts in Kailash Park area.&nbsp;

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia slammed the BJP after the incident.&nbsp;

"Do Modi and Amit Shah want Kejriwal to be murdered?" Sisodia tweeted, attacking the prime minister and the BJP chief.&nbsp;

He said the BJP could not break the morale of Kejriwal and could not defeat him in elections in five years despite putting in all its might. "Now you want him removed from your way like this. You cowards! This Kejriwal is your end," he said in a tweet in Hindi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj too alleged that the BJP might be behind the attack and asserted the incident would not deter the spirit of the party.

"Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal got attacked during the roadshow. We condemned this cowardly act. This opposition sponsored attack cannot stop the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi," he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: A man slaps Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during his roadshow in Moti Nagar area. (Note: Abusive language) <a href="https://t.co/laDndqOSL4">pic.twitter.com/laDndqOSL4</a>
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BJP Delhi president Manoj Tiwari condemned the incident and said the AAP might have "scripted" the incident.&nbsp;

"We do not support violence and condemn such action by anyone. But I have doubt as to why such incidents happen with Kejriwal in election time only.

"I doubt this incident may have been scripted by Kejriwal himself," Tiwari alleged.

Kejriwal was holding the roadshow in favour of New Delhi candidate Brijesh Goyal who is contesting from the Lok Sabha seat.

This is the second time Kejriwal has been slapped in a public rally. Earlier, he was also attacked with ink and spices.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a roadshow in Moti Nagar in the New Delhi constituency, prompting a strong reaction from the AAP which alleged the BJP was behind the "cowardly act".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a roadshow in Moti Nagar in the New Delhi constituency, prompting a strong reaction from the AAP which alleged the BJP was behind the "cowardly act". Police said the man has been taken into the custody and an investigation into the matter is underway. Kejriwal was on an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before he was pulled off the jeep. DCP (West) Monika Bhardwaj said the man has been identified as Suresh, 33, and he deals in spare parts in Kailash Park area. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia slammed the BJP after the incident. "Do Modi and Amit Shah want Kejriwal to be murdered?" Sisodia tweeted, attacking the prime minister and the BJP chief. He said the BJP could not break the morale of Kejriwal and could not defeat him in elections in five years despite putting in all its might. "Now you want him removed from your way like this. You cowards! This Kejriwal is your end," he said in a tweet in Hindi. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj too alleged that the BJP might be behind the attack and asserted the incident would not deter the spirit of the party. "Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal got attacked during the roadshow. We condemned this cowardly act. This opposition sponsored attack cannot stop the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi," he said. #WATCH: A man slaps Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during his roadshow in Moti Nagar area. (Note: Abusive language) pic.twitter.com/laDndqOSL4 — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2019 × BJP Delhi president Manoj Tiwari condemned the incident and said the AAP might have "scripted" the incident. "We do not support violence and condemn such action by anyone. But I have doubt as to why such incidents happen with Kejriwal in election time only. "I doubt this incident may have been scripted by Kejriwal himself," Tiwari alleged. Kejriwal was holding the roadshow in favour of New Delhi candidate Brijesh Goyal who is contesting from the Lok Sabha seat. This is the second time Kejriwal has been slapped in a public rally. Earlier, he was also attacked with ink and spices.

Kejriwal slapped by man during roadshow in Delhi; AAP accuses BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections.

First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said.

In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision.

They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged.

He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans.

They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged.

Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme.

Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tore into the Congress for promising in its manifesto the withdrawal of special powers given to armed forces involved in security operations in Jammu and Kashmir and doing away with the sedition law. Addressing an election meeting in this remote parliamentary constituency situated on the Indo-Nepal border, Modi said he was appalled to see the Congress speaking the same language as Pakistan despite being the party which has been in power for long and urged the people to give a befitting reply to the opposition parties in the elections. First, the Mahamilavatis (the grand alliance of opposition parties) began with abusing Modi. When they saw it was not paying electoral dividends, they trained their guns at the EVMs. After four phases of polls, they have become frustrated and started attacking the Election Commission. They are behaving like a batsman who blames the umpire after being clean bowled, like a student who comes up with silly excuses after flunking examinations, the prime minister said. In an indirect attack on dynastic politics, Modi said parties like Congress and its ally in Bihar, the RJD were in tatters because these were led by people who owed their leadership to inheritance without a vision. They do not see themselves as sevaks (servants) of the people but modern maharajas of democracy, Modi alleged. He also dismissed the Congress promises of helping the poor through measures like the NYAY scheme and waiver of farmers' loans. They (Congress) fooled the people in 2009 with a similar promise. Only a fraction of loans given to farmers was waived and many of the beneficiaries turned out to be not engaged in farming, as per the CAG report, he alleged. Beware of their promise of transferring cash into your accounts. These are the people who ruled the country for so many decades and could not help the poor or even have their accounts opened in banks, Modi said indirectly referring to his governments 'Jan Dhan' scheme. Their electoral promises are nothing but yet another ploy to siphon off money from the exchequer. But let them realize I will not allow a panja (hand an allusion to the Congress poll symbol) on public funds, he said evoking applause from the crowds.

Appalled to see Congress speaking the language of Pakistan: PM Modi

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-smriti-irani-visits-amethi-more-than-rahul-gandhi-says-yogi-adityanath-214907">party's candidate from the constituency</a> Smriti Irani held a road show in the town.

Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji".

"Everyone is hopeful. The massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji and BJP is winning here in this elections. Opposition will stop making any claims after the result, BJP will form government with massive majority," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amethis-battle-royale-smriti-irani-to-take-on-rahul-gandhi-again-207829">Amethi's battle royale: Smriti Irani to take on Rahul Gandhi again</a>

Targetting the Congress, Shah further said, "For the first time Amethi is feeling that development is possible here as well. Even after making members of Gandhi family their representative for so many years, there were villages which didn't have electricity. They received electricity only after Modi ji came".

Union Smriti Irani, who accompanied Shah said, "By writing letters (to the electorate) before elections, Rahul Gandhi is hinting that he will not be present in Amethi ever."

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Uttar Pradesh's Amethi constituency&nbsp;which is considered a&nbsp;Gandhi bastion, will go to polls in the fifth phase on May 6.

For the past four generations, the Lok Sabha seat&nbsp;has been represented by the members of the Gandhi family.

Rahul Gandhi, who has been representing the constituency for the past 15 years, will this time again face BJP's Irani.

In the 2014 general elections, Irani was defeated by Rahul Gandhi by over one lakh votes.

This time, the Congress president filed nominations from two Lok Sabha constituencies, Amethi and Wayanad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the party's candidate from the constituency Smriti Irani held a road show in the town. Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji".

Two days before the polls in Amethi, BJP president Amit Shah and the party's candidate from the constituency Smriti Irani held a road show in the town. Addressing the crowd in the roadshow Shah said that the massive crowd was "evidence that people of Amethi had faith in BJP and Modi ji". "Everyone is hopeful. The massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji and BJP is winning here in this elections. Opposition will stop making any claims after the result, BJP will form government with massive majority," he said. Also read: Amethi's battle royale: Smriti Irani to take on Rahul Gandhi again Targetting the Congress, Shah further said, "For the first time Amethi is feeling that development is possible here as well. Even after making members of Gandhi family their representative for so many years, there were villages which didn't have electricity. They received electricity only after Modi ji came". Union Smriti Irani, who accompanied Shah said, "By writing letters (to the electorate) before elections, Rahul Gandhi is hinting that he will not be present in Amethi ever." #WATCH: BJP President Amit Shah and Union Minister Smriti Irani hold a road show in Amethi. Smriti Irani is BJP candidate from Amethi parliamentary constituency. The constituency will undergo polling on 6th May. #LokSabhaElections pic.twitter.com/DOv0CVYe66 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 4, 2019 × Uttar Pradesh's Amethi constituency which is considered a Gandhi bastion, will go to polls in the fifth phase on May 6. For the past four generations, the Lok Sabha seat has been represented by the members of the Gandhi family. Rahul Gandhi, who has been representing the constituency for the past 15 years, will this time again face BJP's Irani. In the 2014 general elections, Irani was defeated by Rahul Gandhi by over one lakh votes. This time, the Congress president filed nominations from two Lok Sabha constituencies, Amethi and Wayanad. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive crowd is evidence that people of Amethi have faith in Modi ji: Amit Shah

Days&nbsp;after an Independent candidate raised objections over<a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/rahul-gandhi"> Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a>'s nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid.

Defending Gandhi his lawyer KC Kaushik said that Rahul was born in India and he holds an Indian passport.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-complaint-filed-against-rahul-gandhi-for-making-allegedly-derogatory-remarks-on-pm-modi-211455">Rahul Gandhi </a>was born in India and he holds an Indian passport, he never took citizenship of any other country. His passport, Voter-ID, and his income tax, everything is of India".

Speaking on the objections raised on Rahul Gandhi's educational qualification Kaushik said he does not know who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-known-as-raul-vinci-in-britain-italy-yogi-adityanath-212438">Raul Vinci</a> was and where he came from.

"I don't know who Raul Vinci is or where he came from. Rahul Gandhi had done his M.Phil in 1995 from University of Cambridge, I have attached a copy of the certificate, ".

An independent candidate on Saturday raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s nomination from Amethi, alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit.

Complainant Dhruv Raj’s lawyer Ravi Prakash showed reporters purported copies of a certificate of incorporation of a UK-registered company in which the Congress leader is stated to be a British national.

Citing the complaint, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson G.V.L Narasimha Rao demanded that Mr. Gandhi come clean on the matter.

Days after an Independent candidate raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid.

Days after an Independent candidate raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination citing "alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit", the Amethi returning officer on Monday declared that the Congress president's nomination was valid. Defending Gandhi his lawyer KC Kaushik said that Rahul was born in India and he holds an Indian passport. "Rahul Gandhi was born in India and he holds an Indian passport, he never took citizenship of any other country. His passport, Voter-ID, and his income tax, everything is of India". Speaking on the objections raised on Rahul Gandhi's educational qualification Kaushik said he does not know who Raul Vinci was and where he came from. "I don't know who Raul Vinci is or where he came from. Rahul Gandhi had done his M.Phil in 1995 from University of Cambridge, I have attached a copy of the certificate, ". An independent candidate on Saturday raised objections over Congress president Rahul Gandhi’s nomination from Amethi, alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit. Complainant Dhruv Raj’s lawyer Ravi Prakash showed reporters purported copies of a certificate of incorporation of a UK-registered company in which the Congress leader is stated to be a British national. Citing the complaint, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson G.V.L Narasimha Rao demanded that Mr. Gandhi come clean on the matter.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi's nomination is valid: Amethi returning officer

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi attacked PM Modi by raising the issues of surgical strikes and economy. Watch the full video to know more.

Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi, raises issues of Surgical strikes and economy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-gives-clean-chit-to-amit-shah-over-nagpur-nadia-speeches-215784">BJP president Amit Shah</a> said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-far-will-the-united-opposition-go-without-prime-ministerial-face-194989">Opposition is leaderless</a>, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

"Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said.

Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!"

"Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said.

Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-not-allow-abdullahs-muftis-to-divide-india-pm-modi-in-210258">Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister</a>, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same.

"But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said.

"Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked.

On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell."

When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath".

Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added.

Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday that if an alliance of opposition parties came to power, there will be a different prime minister every day. The Opposition is leaderless, Shah said, addressing an election rally at Govindgarh in Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh. "Friends, tell me who will be the leader of the alliance....I am asking who will be their leader, but there is no reply," he said. Quoting a WhatsApp message sent by a BJP worker, he said, "...If an alliance government is formed at the Center, on Monday, Mayawati will be PM, Tuesday Akhilesh (Yadav), Wednesday Sharad Pawar, Thursday (H D) Devegowda, Friday Chandra Babu (Naidu), Saturday Mamata Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and on Sunday the country will go on holiday!" "Can a country be run like this? The country needs a strong leader and a strong government at the Center. Congress government will not help the poor. It will not fight terrorism and give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give a befitting reply to Pakistan," the BJP chief said. Referring to National Conference leader Omar Abdullah's suggestion that Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate prime minister, Shah alleged the Congress wanted the same. "But the Modi government will never allow secession (of Kashmir) from India," he said. "Anti-national slogans like 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge' were shouted in JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). Shouldn't these people be sent to jail?" he asked. On Congress leader Sam Pitroda's statement that India should hold talks with Pakistan, he said, "Rahul Baba's guru Sam Pitroda made a statement....Tell me, should we talk to those who killed our 40 jawans (in Pulwama terror attack) or should we attack them? This is a Narendra Modi government which will reply to gunfire with a bombshell." When the whole country was rejoicing over India taking revenge of the Pulwama attack (by conducting air strike at Balakot in Pakistan), Shah alleged that there was gloom only in Pakistan and "at (houses of) Rahul Gandhi and (Madhya Pradesh chief minister) Kamal Nath". Congress leaders were sad after the Balakot air strike because "their vote-bank was sad", he added. Even if people do not wish to vote for the development carried out under the BJP, they should elect Modi (as PM) for strengthening the country's security, he said.

If opposition wins, there will be different PM every day: Amit Shah

People need to come together to "reclaim the republic" of the country which is on the verge of losing with the onslaught of communal and hatred politics, actor-politician Prakash Raj said Saturday as he announced plans to campaign for the Aam Aadmi Party.

Raj, who fought the Lok Sabha polls as an independent candidate from the Bengaluru Central seat, said he will campaign for the AAP in Delhi for a week.

"The Aam Aadmi Party is fighting the elections on the issues of health, education, their vision and based on their work," he said.

"This is what we need, this is my gesture, and my belief, that different people with different thought processes but love for the country come together to make this democracy, to reclaim our republic which is on the verge and that we may lose with the onslaught of communal and hatred politics of the government, which is in place," Raj said.

Addressing media along with the AAP Delhi convenor Gopal Rai at the party headquarters, Raj said he is one of those "aam admi" (common men) who look up to the ideology and the work done by the party and that is what has made him come here.

"I am here to support such candidates, such party, which is fighting for a change in this election, compared to other parties," he said.

Raj will begin his Delhi campaign from the North East Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday evening with a meeting in support of AAP candidate Dilip Pandey at Babarpur.

He will campaign in the New Delhi and East Delhi constituencies on Sunday.&nbsp;

People need to come together to "reclaim the republic" of the country which is on the verge of losing with the onslaught of communal and hatred politics, actor-politician Prakash Raj said Saturday as he announced plans to campaign for the Aam Aadmi Party.

People need to come together to "reclaim the republic" of the country which is on the verge of losing with the onslaught of communal and hatred politics, actor-politician Prakash Raj said Saturday as he announced plans to campaign for the Aam Aadmi Party. Raj, who fought the Lok Sabha polls as an independent candidate from the Bengaluru Central seat, said he will campaign for the AAP in Delhi for a week. "The Aam Aadmi Party is fighting the elections on the issues of health, education, their vision and based on their work," he said. "This is what we need, this is my gesture, and my belief, that different people with different thought processes but love for the country come together to make this democracy, to reclaim our republic which is on the verge and that we may lose with the onslaught of communal and hatred politics of the government, which is in place," Raj said. Addressing media along with the AAP Delhi convenor Gopal Rai at the party headquarters, Raj said he is one of those "aam admi" (common men) who look up to the ideology and the work done by the party and that is what has made him come here. "I am here to support such candidates, such party, which is fighting for a change in this election, compared to other parties," he said. Raj will begin his Delhi campaign from the North East Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday evening with a meeting in support of AAP candidate Dilip Pandey at Babarpur. He will campaign in the New Delhi and East Delhi constituencies on Sunday.

Prakash Raj to campaign for AAP in Delhi, says people should come together to 'reclaim the republic'

Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi, raises issue of surgical strikes and economy

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it.

Taking to Twitter, he said, "Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which 'So-called Surgical Strike'&nbsp;are you attributing to my tenure as COAS (chief of army staff). Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story."

The statement from the Union Minister came days after Congress leader Rajiv Shukla told reporters at the AICC briefing that six surgical strikes were conducted during Manmohan Singh government.

Shukla had further stated that two surgical strikes were carried out when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister- one on January 21, 2000, in Nadala Enclave across the Neelam River and second on September 18, 2003, in Baroh Sector in Poonch.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday mocked the Congress party for its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime and said after questioning the NDA government's strikes it was now claiming having done similar strikes by saying "me too, me too".

The Congress hit back saying by making these remarks the prime minister was insulting the armed forces.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it.

Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the rival Congress of lying about it. Taking to Twitter, he said, "Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which 'So-called Surgical Strike' are you attributing to my tenure as COAS (chief of army staff). Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story." The statement from the Union Minister came days after Congress leader Rajiv Shukla told reporters at the AICC briefing that six surgical strikes were conducted during Manmohan Singh government. Shukla had further stated that two surgical strikes were carried out when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister- one on January 21, 2000, in Nadala Enclave across the Neelam River and second on September 18, 2003, in Baroh Sector in Poonch. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday mocked the Congress party for its claim of having conducted surgical strikes during the UPA regime and said after questioning the NDA government's strikes it was now claiming having done similar strikes by saying "me too, me too". The Congress hit back saying by making these remarks the prime minister was insulting the armed forces.

VK Singh mocks Congress for claiming 6 surgical strikes during UPA government, says party has a habit of lying

Today is the Last Day of campaigning for Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Polls. Watch the full video to know more.

Last Day of campaigning for Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Polls today

BJP national president Amit Shah on Saturday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Twitter after a news report alleged that the Gandhi scion's former business partner Ulrik McKnight got defence offset contracts during the UPA regime.

"With Rahul Gandhi's Midas Touch, no deal is too much! When he has a say, his business partners make hay. Doesn't matter if India suffers on the way!" tweeted Shah.

According to the report, McKnight was the 35 per cent owner of Backops UK, in which Gandhi owned a 65 per cent equity between 2003 and 2009 before the firm was wound up.

McKnight was later director in a company that acquired offset contracts from French defence supplier Naval Group against Scorpene submarines in 2011, the report stated.

This news came to light just days after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice to the Congress president over his citizenship after receiving a complaint from Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy.

"Ministry has received a representation from MP Dr Subramanian Swamy in which it has been brought out that a Company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003 and that you were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company," the notice read.

The company in question was Backops Limited. A firm called Backops Services Private Limited was opened in India with Priyanka and Rahul as directors in 2002. In 2003, a firm called Backops Limited was incorporated in the UK by Rahul Gandhi and one Ulrik McKnight.

Gandhi had a 65 per cent stake while McKnight had 35 per cent.

BJP national president Amit Shah on Saturday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Twitter after a news report alleged that the Gandhi scion's former business partner Ulrik McKnight got defence offset contracts during the UPA regime.

BJP national president Amit Shah on Saturday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Twitter after a news report alleged that the Gandhi scion's former business partner Ulrik McKnight got defence offset contracts during the UPA regime. "With Rahul Gandhi's Midas Touch, no deal is too much! When he has a say, his business partners make hay. Doesn't matter if India suffers on the way!" tweeted Shah. According to the report, McKnight was the 35 per cent owner of Backops UK, in which Gandhi owned a 65 per cent equity between 2003 and 2009 before the firm was wound up. McKnight was later director in a company that acquired offset contracts from French defence supplier Naval Group against Scorpene submarines in 2011, the report stated. This news came to light just days after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice to the Congress president over his citizenship after receiving a complaint from Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy. "Ministry has received a representation from MP Dr Subramanian Swamy in which it has been brought out that a Company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003 and that you were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company," the notice read. The company in question was Backops Limited. A firm called Backops Services Private Limited was opened in India with Priyanka and Rahul as directors in 2002. In 2003, a firm called Backops Limited was incorporated in the UK by Rahul Gandhi and one Ulrik McKnight. Gandhi had a 65 per cent stake while McKnight had 35 per cent.

With Rahul Gandhi's Midas Touch, no deal is too much: Amit Shah

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked for details of expenses of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray's rallies, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dilip Shinde said on Thursday.

As per reports, Thackeray conducted nearly a dozen public rallies for the Lok Sabha elections although his party did not field a single candidate for the polls.

Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, Thackeray appealed voters not to cast their votes in favour of the party and its alliance partners in order to ensure Modi's defeat in the general elections.

A week after Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections, Thackeray announced that MNS will not contest the ongoing elections.

Seven-phase elections, which began on April 11, will culminate on May 19, and results will be declared on May 23.

In the 2014 general elections, MNS was unable to win any seat.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked for details of expenses of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray's rallies, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dilip Shinde said on Thursday.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked for details of expenses of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray's rallies, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dilip Shinde said on Thursday. As per reports, Thackeray conducted nearly a dozen public rallies for the Lok Sabha elections although his party did not field a single candidate for the polls. Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, Thackeray appealed voters not to cast their votes in favour of the party and its alliance partners in order to ensure Modi's defeat in the general elections. A week after Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora announced the schedule of Lok Sabha elections, Thackeray announced that MNS will not contest the ongoing elections. Seven-phase elections, which began on April 11, will culminate on May 19, and results will be declared on May 23. In the 2014 general elections, MNS was unable to win any seat.

Election Commission seeks details of expenses of Raj Thackeray's rallies

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception".

Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image".

In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?"

"Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added.

Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent.

"He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast.

"Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Friday wondered how the Congress president could damage the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is riding on the peak of his popularity. The dynasts have a self-illusionary opinion about themselves and tend to become megalomaniacs, he said adding "Rahul Gandhi is no exception". Jaitley was referring to Gandhi's statement quoted by a media organisation that "I have dismantled Modi's image... I will damage his image". In a blog titled 'A Dynast's non-existent revenge against the man who defeated him in 2014? I Dismantled PM's Image', Jaitley said, "But how do you damage the image of a person who is riding perhaps at the peak of his popularity? How do you damage the reputation of a person who is known to be incredibly honest?" "Can image be destroyed by a person who belongs to a family which has been tainted through generations with charges of corruption? How do you claim to have succeeded in damaging the image of a powerful personality where Prime Minister Modi's acceptability ratings are close to 70 per cent and Rahul is finding it difficult to even breach the 20 per cent mark?" he added. Accusing Gandhi of concocting falsehood, the minister said the Congress president can only dream of destroying his opponent. "He does not gauge public opinion. He only talks but does not listen. Such people surround themselves with advisors who have also tactically learnt to only give good news to the dynast. "Rahul's attitude is at complete variation with the traditional Congress way of doing things. His revenge against Prime Minister Modi may not succeed. It may well turn out to be a revenge against the Congress," Jaitley said.

Jaitley wonders how Rahul could damage Modi's image