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

India Election Watch: Know Your Candidate, who is Babul Supriyo?

In this segment of WION, we bring to you rally roster of India's top leaders and with that an incident of Rahul Gandhi's Samastipur rally in which he promised job to a boy with the same name as Rahul. Watch full video to know more.

India Election Watch: Rahul promises job to a boy in a Samastipur rally

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/rahul-gandhi&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiRqYGzrvDhAhXb8XMBHSXoD_YQFjABegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1tcIxcJijCnDNGDSOa-O0f">Congress president Rahul Gandhi </a>and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday.

The complainant, Satyavrat, has filed a case against both the leaders for the joint rally of the Mahagathbandhan held in Samastipur on Friday, where Gandhi was allegedly asking the crowd to raise slogans of '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regret-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-against-pm-modi-in-rafale-deal-rahul-gandhi-in-response-to-supreme-court-notice-212506">Chowkidar Chor Hai</a>' to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

This was also the first rally in the ongoing campaigns for the Lok Sabha elections in which the two prominent leaders shared the stage.

While Section 124 (A) covers sedition, section 505 (1) deals with intent to incite one section of the public to commit offences against another section of the public or statements creating ill-will between the masses.

Polling in Bihar is being held in all seven phases of elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday.

A case under Section 124 (A) and 505 (1) has been filed against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Ara Civil Court by an advocate named Satyavrat on Saturday. The complainant, Satyavrat, has filed a case against both the leaders for the joint rally of the Mahagathbandhan held in Samastipur on Friday, where Gandhi was allegedly asking the crowd to raise slogans of 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This was also the first rally in the ongoing campaigns for the Lok Sabha elections in which the two prominent leaders shared the stage. While Section 124 (A) covers sedition, section 505 (1) deals with intent to incite one section of the public to commit offences against another section of the public or statements creating ill-will between the masses. Polling in Bihar is being held in all seven phases of elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Case filed against Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi Yadav for asking crowd to raise 'chowkidar chor hai' slogan

A case has been registered against Samajwadi Party (SP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/azam-khan-fighting-polls-to-legalise-his-acts-jaya-prada-208710">Azam Khan </a>on Saturday for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his speech in an election rally in Rampur&nbsp;on April 25, said police.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/many-undesirable-dangerous-trends-in-2019-lok-sabha-elections-211131">Many undesirable, dangerous trends in 2019 Lok Sabha elections</a>

Talking to ANI, Milak Circle Officer Saloni Agarwal said, "The comments made by SP leader Azam Khan in his speech during an election rally on April 25 in Shahabad, Saifini village of Rampur were found to be in violation of MCC."

"A case has been registered against three persons including Azam Khan, Programme co-ordinator Jai Prakash Sagar and programme speaker Radhe Shyam Rahi," she added.

In his speech on April 25, SP leader Azam Khan allegedly referred to Kargil war and also used religious slogans. Khan had allegedly said, "During Kargil war, Indian soldiers comprising both Hindus and Muslims defeated Pakistanis. The Indian soldiers shouted `Naara-e- Takbeer Allahu Akbar` slogan to fool the Pakistanis, who mistook them for their own soldiers and came out of their cover. After this Indian soldiers easily defeated them."

On April 24, Khan had alleged that the district administration in his constituency did not allow Muslims voters to exercise their franchise in the ongoing elections.

"For past one week, houses of Muslims are being looted. They were beaten as well. One day back, District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police have beaten them as well," Khan had said during a press conference in Rampur.

Azam Khan contested in Rampur against BJP's Jaya Prada.

Polling for this constituency was held on April 18.&nbsp;

A case has been registered against Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan on Saturday for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his speech in an election rally in Rampur on April 25, said police.

A case has been registered against Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan on Saturday for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his speech in an election rally in Rampur on April 25, said police. Also read: Many undesirable, dangerous trends in 2019 Lok Sabha elections Talking to ANI, Milak Circle Officer Saloni Agarwal said, "The comments made by SP leader Azam Khan in his speech during an election rally on April 25 in Shahabad, Saifini village of Rampur were found to be in violation of MCC." "A case has been registered against three persons including Azam Khan, Programme co-ordinator Jai Prakash Sagar and programme speaker Radhe Shyam Rahi," she added. In his speech on April 25, SP leader Azam Khan allegedly referred to Kargil war and also used religious slogans. Khan had allegedly said, "During Kargil war, Indian soldiers comprising both Hindus and Muslims defeated Pakistanis. The Indian soldiers shouted `Naara-e- Takbeer Allahu Akbar` slogan to fool the Pakistanis, who mistook them for their own soldiers and came out of their cover. After this Indian soldiers easily defeated them." On April 24, Khan had alleged that the district administration in his constituency did not allow Muslims voters to exercise their franchise in the ongoing elections. "For past one week, houses of Muslims are being looted. They were beaten as well. One day back, District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police have beaten them as well," Khan had said during a press conference in Rampur. Azam Khan contested in Rampur against BJP's Jaya Prada. Polling for this constituency was held on April 18.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Case registered against Azam Khan for violating Model Code of Conduct

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been summoned by Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court&nbsp;on June 7 for his alleged "scorpion" remark against PM Modi.

Tharoor had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ravi-shankar-prasad-hits-out-at-shashi-tharoor-over-shiv-linga-remarks-174058">stirred up a controversy</a> in October last year after he had claimed that an unnamed RSS source had told a journalist that Prime Minister Modi was like a scorpion sitting on a Shiv Linga who cannot be removed by hand or hit with a chappal (slipper).

Speaking at the Bengaluru Literature Festival in October, Tharoor had said, "There's an extraordinarily striking metaphor expressed by an unnamed RSS source to a journalist, who expressed their frustration to curb Modi - 'Modi is like a scorpion sitting on a 'shivling'. You can't remove him with your hand and you cannot hit it with a 'chappal'&nbsp;(slipper) either."&nbsp;

Tharoor had made the&nbsp;remarks&nbsp;at the launch&nbsp;of his book "The Paradoxical Prime Minister: Narendra Modi And His India" at the Bengaluru Literature Festival.

(With inputs from ANI)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been summoned by Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on June 7 for his alleged "scorpion" remark against PM Modi. Tharoor had stirred up a controversy in October last year after he had claimed that an unnamed RSS source had told a journalist that Prime Minister Modi was like a scorpion sitting on a Shiv Linga who cannot be removed by hand or hit with a chappal (slipper).

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been summoned by Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on June 7 for his alleged "scorpion" remark against PM Modi. Tharoor had stirred up a controversy in October last year after he had claimed that an unnamed RSS source had told a journalist that Prime Minister Modi was like a scorpion sitting on a Shiv Linga who cannot be removed by hand or hit with a chappal (slipper). Speaking at the Bengaluru Literature Festival in October, Tharoor had said, "There's an extraordinarily striking metaphor expressed by an unnamed RSS source to a journalist, who expressed their frustration to curb Modi - 'Modi is like a scorpion sitting on a 'shivling'. You can't remove him with your hand and you cannot hit it with a 'chappal' (slipper) either." Tharoor had made the remarks at the launch of his book "The Paradoxical Prime Minister: Narendra Modi And His India" at the Bengaluru Literature Festival. (With inputs from ANI)

Court issues summons to Shashi Tharoor over his 'scorpion' remark on PM Modi

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency.

In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room."

"We have apprised the Election Commission about the incident and recommended repolling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly segments, because of the errors during the voting in the third phase" he added.

The voter turnout in the third phase of elections for both assembly and parliamentary constituencies in Odisha stood at an impressive 71.61 per cent.

The fourth and final phase of polling in Odisha will be held on April 29.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will begin on May 23.&nbsp;

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency. In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room.

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency. In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room." "We have apprised the Election Commission about the incident and recommended repolling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly segments, because of the errors during the voting in the third phase" he added. The voter turnout in the third phase of elections for both assembly and parliamentary constituencies in Odisha stood at an impressive 71.61 per cent. The fourth and final phase of polling in Odisha will be held on April 29. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

Odisha CEO recommends re-polling in 12 booths

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-bjp-leader-shatrughan-sinha-joins-congress-208300">Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha</a> on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side.

Speaking to ANI, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-shatrughan-sinha-to-challenge-ravi-shankar-prasad-in-bihars-patna-sahib-208336">Sinha</a> said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar."

"Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed.

Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence.

"Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna.

Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event.

Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday took a U-turn on his Muhammad Ali Jinnah statement, saying that the remark was a "slip of tongue" from his side. Speaking to ANI, Sinha said he wanted to take Maulana Azad`s name but instead, uttered the name of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The actor-turned-politician's clarification came after he courted controversy for saying that "from Mahatma Gandhi to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, all are part of Congress Parivar." "Whatever I said yesterday was slip of tongue. I wanted to say Maulana Azad but uttered Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he claimed. Sinha, who recently left BJP and joined Congress, lauded Muhammad Ali Jinnah along with Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru, saying they all had a role to play for India's independence. "Ye Congress parivar Mahatma Gandhi se leke, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel se leke, Muhammad Ali Jinnah se leke, Jawaharlal Nehru se leke, swargiya Indira Gandhi se leke, Rajiv Gandhi se leke aur Rahul Gandhi se leke... inki party hai jinka desh ke vikas me, desh ki tarakki me, desh ki azadi me sabse mehatvapurna aur sabse bada yogdaan hua, isliye hum yaha aye (Congress family from Mahatma Gandhi to Sardar Patel to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Jawaharlal Nehru... It is their party. They had the most important role in development and freedom of the country. This is the reason why I have come here (in Congress)," Sinha said while addressing a rally in Patna. Sinha was in Madhya Pradesh to campaign for the state Chief Minister Kamal Nath`s son Nakul Nath, who is contesting from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency against BJP`s Nathan Shah.Both Kamal Nath and his son were present at the event. Meanwhile, Sinha will be contesting the ongoing polls from Bihar`s Patna Sahib constituency against BJP`s Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Shatrughan Sinha clarifies his statement on Jinnah, calls it 'slip of tongue'

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - April 26th, 2019

As we approach the halfway mark of the seven-phase 2019 elections, it is clear that this is the ugliest campaign in India’s 70-year-old electoral history. As a witness to three general elections and an activist observer or researcher in 12 others, one has never witnessed so much bad blood as this seventeenth general election.&nbsp;

This, of course, has not happened overnight. It has reached this stage because critical issues confronting the electoral system have not been addressed over the years. To ensure fair and free polls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) was given statutory status. In 1962, the idea of a ‘model code’, experimented for the first time in Kerala in 1960, was adopted. In 1979, certain restraints were introduced for the party in power. In 1991, Election Commissioner T N Seshan demonstrated what a proactive and independent ECI could do to ensure independence. There were more than a couple of parliamentary committees set up to propose electoral reforms. But with political parties becoming all-powerful, despite losing much of their sheen, electoral practices have continued to decline.&nbsp;

Take Indonesia. With a history of two decades of elections and 187 million voters, the country had a one-day national poll recently. Whereas in India, a voter has to wait for 43 days to know the winner, despite the EVMs. &nbsp;Never before has the ECI been seen to be as partisan as today and no efforts have been made to ensure that the electoral process regains credibility.&nbsp;

Instruments like the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) have outlived their utility. The irrelevance of ECI’s instruments is evident from a cursory reading of the code. Neither of the eight provisions dealing with the conduct of poll is being observed either by the candidates or the political parties in the fray. &nbsp;The first of the eight is on “general conduct” of polls. This includes a ban on “caste and communal feelings”, “criticism of candidates on the basis of unverified reports”, and “bribing of voters”. &nbsp;“No political party can use pictures of defence and military personnel”, in a poll campaign, is another MCC guideline, which has been thrown out of the window. &nbsp;

In 1979, MCC prohibited government advertisement of their ‘achievements’ and banned announcement of grants and schemes, so that the ruling party does not get an unfair advantage. The government or the ruling party “should not launch any welfare programmes, including ribbon cutting ceremonies”, said the code.&nbsp;

However, what is happening is exactly the opposite and the Supreme Court had to remind the ECI that it is not toothless. An analysis of nominations filed for assemblies and Parliament in the last few elections, according to the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), reveals that the percentage of rich, privileged and those with a criminal background, total to nearly one-third of the elected members. CMS studies on poll expenditure over the last three general elections, bring out three critical points. First, a significant per cent of voters is being paid money across the states, both in rural and urban India. Second, the expenditure being incurred by parties and candidates has been going up in such a way that only millionaires can now contest. &nbsp;Third, the campaigns are focused on lure rather than on issues and concerns. Neither is there evidence that political parties have become accountable or are taking their manifestos seriously.

Despite ECI’s hundreds of “expenditure observers,” the extent of unaccounted money confiscated is on rise with no effect on the overall poll expenditure. Only one Assembly member was ever disqualified in UP, a couple of years ago, for not submitting accounts, as required. &nbsp; 
 
There have been several parliamentary panels on poll funding in the last four decades, but their recommendations have remained only on paper. If anything, recent government measures are aimed at facilitating funding, including from foreign corporates, with no transparency. It is tempting to ask why we have not pursued a different kind of electoral campaign or evaluated the actual requirements of a contesting candidate. There is no reason why a candidate should not reach out to voters, present his or her credentials, address voters’ concerns and propose what he or she will do if elected.&nbsp;

Candidates mainly stress on the negative aspects of their rivals. Increasingly, many of them spend more time on their opponents, than on what they propose to do.&nbsp;Big changes are needed. Candidates can campaign together so that voters can make a better choice more transparently. There must be minimum joint public meetings in every constituency.

It will help bring down poll expenditure substantially. When competing candidates address voters together, they are likely to be more positive and cordial. After all, if two bitter rivals can come together in a poll alliance, why can’t opposing candidates campaign together? Unless political leaders and parties come forward to restore the sanctity of electoral practices, nothing is going to change. And unless that happens, it is difficult to expect good governance, deepen democracy and inclusive development.

It is time to relook the relevance of ECI’s code of conduct. This is not possible without the support, cooperation and participation of the news media. The judiciary needs to be consulted in repositioning the ECI. India needs an electoral shake-up as the republic enters the 75th year. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-poll-code-nothing-really-model-about-it-2743200">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As we approach the halfway mark of the seven-phase 2019 elections, it is clear that this is the ugliest campaign in India’s 70-year-old electoral history. As a witness to three general elections and an activist observer or researcher in 12 others, one has never witnessed so much bad blood as this seventeenth general election.

As we approach the halfway mark of the seven-phase 2019 elections, it is clear that this is the ugliest campaign in India’s 70-year-old electoral history. As a witness to three general elections and an activist observer or researcher in 12 others, one has never witnessed so much bad blood as this seventeenth general election. This, of course, has not happened overnight. It has reached this stage because critical issues confronting the electoral system have not been addressed over the years. To ensure fair and free polls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) was given statutory status. In 1962, the idea of a ‘model code’, experimented for the first time in Kerala in 1960, was adopted. In 1979, certain restraints were introduced for the party in power. In 1991, Election Commissioner T N Seshan demonstrated what a proactive and independent ECI could do to ensure independence. There were more than a couple of parliamentary committees set up to propose electoral reforms. But with political parties becoming all-powerful, despite losing much of their sheen, electoral practices have continued to decline. Take Indonesia. With a history of two decades of elections and 187 million voters, the country had a one-day national poll recently. Whereas in India, a voter has to wait for 43 days to know the winner, despite the EVMs. Never before has the ECI been seen to be as partisan as today and no efforts have been made to ensure that the electoral process regains credibility. Instruments like the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) have outlived their utility. The irrelevance of ECI’s instruments is evident from a cursory reading of the code. Neither of the eight provisions dealing with the conduct of poll is being observed either by the candidates or the political parties in the fray. The first of the eight is on “general conduct” of polls. This includes a ban on “caste and communal feelings”, “criticism of candidates on the basis of unverified reports”, and “bribing of voters”. “No political party can use pictures of defence and military personnel”, in a poll campaign, is another MCC guideline, which has been thrown out of the window. In 1979, MCC prohibited government advertisement of their ‘achievements’ and banned announcement of grants and schemes, so that the ruling party does not get an unfair advantage. The government or the ruling party “should not launch any welfare programmes, including ribbon cutting ceremonies”, said the code. However, what is happening is exactly the opposite and the Supreme Court had to remind the ECI that it is not toothless. An analysis of nominations filed for assemblies and Parliament in the last few elections, according to the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), reveals that the percentage of rich, privileged and those with a criminal background, total to nearly one-third of the elected members. CMS studies on poll expenditure over the last three general elections, bring out three critical points. First, a significant per cent of voters is being paid money across the states, both in rural and urban India. Second, the expenditure being incurred by parties and candidates has been going up in such a way that only millionaires can now contest. Third, the campaigns are focused on lure rather than on issues and concerns. Neither is there evidence that political parties have become accountable or are taking their manifestos seriously. Despite ECI’s hundreds of “expenditure observers,” the extent of unaccounted money confiscated is on rise with no effect on the overall poll expenditure. Only one Assembly member was ever disqualified in UP, a couple of years ago, for not submitting accounts, as required. There have been several parliamentary panels on poll funding in the last four decades, but their recommendations have remained only on paper. If anything, recent government measures are aimed at facilitating funding, including from foreign corporates, with no transparency. It is tempting to ask why we have not pursued a different kind of electoral campaign or evaluated the actual requirements of a contesting candidate. There is no reason why a candidate should not reach out to voters, present his or her credentials, address voters’ concerns and propose what he or she will do if elected. Candidates mainly stress on the negative aspects of their rivals. Increasingly, many of them spend more time on their opponents, than on what they propose to do. Big changes are needed. Candidates can campaign together so that voters can make a better choice more transparently. There must be minimum joint public meetings in every constituency. It will help bring down poll expenditure substantially. When competing candidates address voters together, they are likely to be more positive and cordial. After all, if two bitter rivals can come together in a poll alliance, why can’t opposing candidates campaign together? Unless political leaders and parties come forward to restore the sanctity of electoral practices, nothing is going to change. And unless that happens, it is difficult to expect good governance, deepen democracy and inclusive development. It is time to relook the relevance of ECI’s code of conduct. This is not possible without the support, cooperation and participation of the news media. The judiciary needs to be consulted in repositioning the ECI. India needs an electoral shake-up as the republic enters the 75th year. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Political leaders and parties must come forward to restore the sanctity of electoral practices

For the first time in the country pro-incumbency wave is being witnessed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told party workers before filing his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency.

Noting that the mood is festive from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Modi said party workers are the real candidates.

Asking the cadres to break all voting records, the prime minister said he has worked honestly for good governance.&nbsp;"During yesterday's roadshow here, I have sensed the hard work of party cadre," he said amid chants of "Modi Modi" from the gathering.&nbsp;

Party workers are real candidates, the mood is festive from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Modi said before filing his nomination papers.&nbsp;

People have made up their minds, they want Modi sarkar again, he said.

For the first time in the country pro-incumbency wave is being witnessed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told party workers before filing his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency.

For the first time in the country pro-incumbency wave is being witnessed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told party workers before filing his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. Noting that the mood is festive from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Modi said party workers are the real candidates. Asking the cadres to break all voting records, the prime minister said he has worked honestly for good governance. "During yesterday's roadshow here, I have sensed the hard work of party cadre," he said amid chants of "Modi Modi" from the gathering. Party workers are real candidates, the mood is festive from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Modi said before filing his nomination papers. People have made up their minds, they want Modi sarkar again, he said.

Pro-incumbency wave for the first time in country: PM Modi 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold two rallies in Madhya Pradesh today ahead of the first phase of polling in the state on April 29. Watch full video to know more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold two rallies in Madhya Pradesh on Friday ahead of the first phase of polling in the state on April 29. M

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-rajnath-slams-cong-over-balakot-air-strikes-chowkidar-jibe-213358">Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

"The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"The NDA&nbsp;is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs."

Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin.&nbsp;BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272.

Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a two-third majority in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. "The NDA will get two-third majority in the country," Singh, who was in Varanasi, told ANI. Apna Dal (S) convener and Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel said that the enthusiasm of the people shows that the NDA is headed towards an absolute majority in Lok Sabha and will form the government again under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The NDA is coming to power again. There is no doubt that it will be under the leadership of Narendra Modi. The way people greeted and welcomed Modi ji on streets of Varanasi shows that people want to see Modi ji again as the Prime Minister. We will break all records in Uttar Pradesh," she noted. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj told ANI, "The people of Varanasi are very lucky as they are choosing the Prime Minister of India, while people of other constituencies are choosing their MPs." Modi will file his nomination today from the Varanasi parliamentary constituency, the seat from where he won the 2014 general election by a huge margin. BJP had secured 282 seats in Lok Sabha, crossing the half-way mark of 272. Modi had then contested and won from Vadodara in Gujarat as well but chose to retain Varanasi.

NDA to get two-third majority in Lok Sabha: Rajnath Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim.

"Dont waste your vote. Better to vote for a party that is coming to power and you can strengthen it with your vote," Modi said.&nbsp;

"The only question now is if the BJP will better its own 2014 tally," he added.

Modi also attacked the Congress for neglecting the police forces force and turning it into a "punching bag" while the party was in power.

Modi's attack on the opposition party came in the backdrop of a raging controversy over BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks about 26/11 Mumbai terror attack martyr police officer Hemant Karkare.

Had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who have paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a heavier price due to terror activities, he said.

"The Congress attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," Modi said.

The Congress did not do anything for the security forces, Modi said and underlined his government's decision to build a police memorial in New Delhi.

Modi told the crowd that the Congress insulted them by calling the middle class as selfish and greedy. He underlined the contributions of the middle class and his government's initiatives for it.

"Telephone bills were once a huge part in the list of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said.

The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda and the changes are there to see with work on bullet trains and metro network in progress, he said.

In the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of metro network, Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim. "Dont waste your vote. Better to vote for a party that is coming to power and you can strengthen it with your vote," Modi said. "The only question now is if the BJP will better its own 2014 tally," he added. Modi also attacked the Congress for neglecting the police forces force and turning it into a "punching bag" while the party was in power. Modi's attack on the opposition party came in the backdrop of a raging controversy over BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks about 26/11 Mumbai terror attack martyr police officer Hemant Karkare. Had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who have paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a heavier price due to terror activities, he said. "The Congress attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," Modi said. The Congress did not do anything for the security forces, Modi said and underlined his government's decision to build a police memorial in New Delhi. Modi told the crowd that the Congress insulted them by calling the middle class as selfish and greedy. He underlined the contributions of the middle class and his government's initiatives for it. "Telephone bills were once a huge part in the list of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said. The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda and the changes are there to see with work on bullet trains and metro network in progress, he said. In the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of metro network, Modi said.

Congress won't get even 50 seats, says Modi in Mumbai

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress President Rahul Gandhi will be addressing rallies in 3 states today. Watch full video to know more.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi holds rallies in 3 states ahead of the Lok Sabha poll

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/poll-scam-money-used-for-naamdars-campaign-pm-modi-targets-rahul-gandhi-213678"> Narendra Modi</a> Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country.

Addressing an election rally in Jabalpur, he said after completion of voting in more than 300 Lok Sabha seats, his opponents have accepted that there is a (Modi) "wave" and have knelt before it.

Modi told the gathering that their votes in favour of the BJP in 2014 made India strong and forced the world to look at the country with a different perspective.

"Your one vote has made the country strong and changed the outlook of the world towards India in the last five years," Modi said.

The PM said the opposition has always stood against India's stance on key issues with other countries.

"They always stood in opposition to the countrys stand. Opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of surgical strike, air strike or Doklam dispute (with China in 2017)," he said.

Speaking on the issue of terrorism, Modi said military operations against terror camps launched under his watch were just "trailer"".

"India is changing now. We have killed them (terrorists) by entering into their den. And whatever we have done is just a trailer, a sample. We have to wipe out terrorism from its roots," the prime minister said.

Modi said after the end of three phases of Lok Sabha polls, covering 303 seats, it is clear which way people have voted.

"The mandate for 300 seats is in. Those who were saying there was no wave, have now realised (that public opinion in favour of the BJP) and have now knelt before it," the prime minister said.

"A sea of people undeterred by the scorching heat have gathered here...This shows they have joined hands for a building a new India," he said, pointing to the large crowd gathered at the rally.

Modi said his government implemented the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in larger public interest and to boost the nations tax collection.

"The Congress mentioned about implementing the GST regime three times its manifesto but couldn't do so as it lacked (political) will," he added.

The rally was organised in support of BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Jabalpur Rakesh Singh, who is the sitting MP from the seat. Singh is also Madhya Pradesh BJP president.

Madhya Pradesh, which has 29 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in four phases starting from April 29.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of military operations against terror camps in the neighbouring country. Addressing an election rally in Jabalpur, he said after completion of voting in more than 300 Lok Sabha seats, his opponents have accepted that there is a (Modi) "wave" and have knelt before it. Modi told the gathering that their votes in favour of the BJP in 2014 made India strong and forced the world to look at the country with a different perspective. "Your one vote has made the country strong and changed the outlook of the world towards India in the last five years," Modi said. The PM said the opposition has always stood against India's stance on key issues with other countries. "They always stood in opposition to the countrys stand. Opposition leaders are in a race to support Pakistan on the issue of surgical strike, air strike or Doklam dispute (with China in 2017)," he said. Speaking on the issue of terrorism, Modi said military operations against terror camps launched under his watch were just "trailer"". "India is changing now. We have killed them (terrorists) by entering into their den. And whatever we have done is just a trailer, a sample. We have to wipe out terrorism from its roots," the prime minister said. Modi said after the end of three phases of Lok Sabha polls, covering 303 seats, it is clear which way people have voted. "The mandate for 300 seats is in. Those who were saying there was no wave, have now realised (that public opinion in favour of the BJP) and have now knelt before it," the prime minister said. "A sea of people undeterred by the scorching heat have gathered here...This shows they have joined hands for a building a new India," he said, pointing to the large crowd gathered at the rally. Modi said his government implemented the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in larger public interest and to boost the nations tax collection. "The Congress mentioned about implementing the GST regime three times its manifesto but couldn't do so as it lacked (political) will," he added. The rally was organised in support of BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Jabalpur Rakesh Singh, who is the sitting MP from the seat. Singh is also Madhya Pradesh BJP president. Madhya Pradesh, which has 29 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in four phases starting from April 29.

Those who said there is no 'wave' have now knelt before it: PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday.

All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-mega-roadshow-in-varanasi-213438">which includes another road show</a> as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction.

A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari.

The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town.

"After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted.

Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris.

PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Modi and&nbsp;&nbsp;Rai&nbsp;will battle from&nbsp;Varanasi&nbsp;seat.

PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally.

Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will file his nomination for Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency in Varanasi on Friday. All senior leaders of the BJP, NDA and North East Democratic Alliance are expected to be present in the city to mark the occasion. For today, the Prime Minister is expected to begin his schedule with prayers at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. According to sources, BJP workers are giving final touches to the itinerary of the day, which includes another road show as Prime Minister proceeds to file his nomination. He may also hold media interaction. A day before, the Prime Minister held a grand roadshow in Varanasi along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister JP Nadda, UP and Delhi BJP chiefs, Mahendra Nath Pandey and Manoj Tiwari. The roadshow began after paying his tributes at Pt Madan Mohan Malviya's statue outside Banaras Hindu University. The rally, stretching over 6km, had passed through Lanka and Madanpura areas of the city and end at the famed Dashashwamedh Ghat. Before embarking on the roadshow, PM Modi had said that his scheduled programmes in "beloved Kashi" would give him an opportunity to interact with his “sisters and brothers” of the town. "After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi. There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. Har Har Mahadev!" Modi had tweeted. Later in the evening, PM Modi also participated in the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the holy river. After that, he had an interaction with select intellectuals at Hotel De Paris. PM Modi is contesting against Congress' Ajay Rai and SP leader Shalini Yadav. Congress on Thursday had announced that it would field Rai as its candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, putting to rest speculation regarding Priyanka GandhiVadra contesting the general elections against Prime Minister Modi. This would be the second time Prime Minister Modi and Rai will battle from Varanasi seat. PM Modi held similar mega road shows in 2014 - both before and after winning the constituency in the 16th Lok Sabha elections. Three years later, the Prime Minister hit the streets of Varanasi for campaigning during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Modi won from Varanasi by a margin of 3.37 lakh votes. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Rai were among the candidates from the seat. While Kejriwal came in the second place, Rai stood third in the vote tally. Varanasi will go to polls on May 19 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to file nomination from Varanasi today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be addressing booth heads and party workers in Varanasi at 8 AM on April 26. Watch full video to know more.

PM Modi to address BJP workers in Varanasi at 8 am on April 26

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wanted-a-pm-who-can-attack-pakistan-uddhav-thackeray-on-alliance-with-bjp-211968">Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray</a> said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises.

He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

"We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later.

"Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said.

"Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped.

Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said.

In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials.

On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society.

"The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said.

The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil. "We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later. "Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said. "Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped. Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said. In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials. On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society. "The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said. The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Opposition parties should find a leader first, says Uddhav Thackeray

With an objective to cover 100 per cent of election booths in West Bengal for the fourth phase of polling, there will be deployment of 580 companies of central forces, a senior official said on Thursday.

"We expect this will enable us to cover as many as 100 per cent of the polling stations by central forces," the Election Commission official told PTI.

The fourth phase on April 29 will see deployment of over 200 companies more as compared to the number in the third phase.

During the first phase, the EC had deputed central forces at 50 per cent of the booths, which was increased to 92 per cent in the third phase of polling held on April 23.

On Monday, eight Lok Sabha constituencies - Baharampur, Krishnanagar, Ranaghat, Bardhaman Purba, Bardhaman-Durgapur, Asansol, Bolpur and Birbhum will go to polls.

Special emphasis will be given to Asansol, which shares its border with Bihar, an EC source said.

Meanwhile, the commission served a showcause notice on Wednesday to Trinamool Congress MLA from Chakdah Ratna Ghosh Kar, for making derogatory remarks in reply to a report sought by the EC, he said.

The EC had asked for a report from the District Magistrate of Nadia on April 17, in connection with Ghosh Kar's alleged objectionable remarks about the central forces.

"Her replies to the commission were highly derogatory in nature, and now it (EC) has showcaused her," the source said.&nbsp;

With an objective to cover 100 per cent of election booths in West Bengal for the fourth phase of polling, there will be deployment of 580 companies of central forces, a senior official said on Thursday.

With an objective to cover 100 per cent of election booths in West Bengal for the fourth phase of polling, there will be deployment of 580 companies of central forces, a senior official said on Thursday. "We expect this will enable us to cover as many as 100 per cent of the polling stations by central forces," the Election Commission official told PTI. The fourth phase on April 29 will see deployment of over 200 companies more as compared to the number in the third phase. During the first phase, the EC had deputed central forces at 50 per cent of the booths, which was increased to 92 per cent in the third phase of polling held on April 23. On Monday, eight Lok Sabha constituencies - Baharampur, Krishnanagar, Ranaghat, Bardhaman Purba, Bardhaman-Durgapur, Asansol, Bolpur and Birbhum will go to polls. Special emphasis will be given to Asansol, which shares its border with Bihar, an EC source said. Meanwhile, the commission served a showcause notice on Wednesday to Trinamool Congress MLA from Chakdah Ratna Ghosh Kar, for making derogatory remarks in reply to a report sought by the EC, he said. The EC had asked for a report from the District Magistrate of Nadia on April 17, in connection with Ghosh Kar's alleged objectionable remarks about the central forces. "Her replies to the commission were highly derogatory in nature, and now it (EC) has showcaused her," the source said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission to deploy 580 companies of central forces in West Bengal for fourth phase

Maharashtra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strap-sceptical-opposition-leaders-on-rockets-to-balakot-fadnavis-212819">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a> Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008.

Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis&nbsp;said the voters should give a second term to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-india-gives-befitting-reply-to-terror-pm-modi-213515">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country.

During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government.

"What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said.

Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance.

The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come.

Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes.

Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Thursday said the voters in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections have to choose between the BJP's development agenda and "anarchy" represented by the Congress-led opposition. Fadnavis said the Congress-led UPA government had no guts to act when Mumbai was attacked by terrorists in 2008. Addressing an election rally in support of BJP-Sena alliance's Lok Sabha candidate from Bhiwandi Kapil Patil, Fadnavis said the voters should give a second term to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Fadnavis came down heavily on the Congress for its string of "failures" during its decades-long rule in the country. During his almost half an hour speech, the BJP leader listed the achievements of the Modi government. "What the Congress gave to the common man during its 60-year rule was nothing but 'anachar' (misrule), 'brashtachar' (corruption), Fadnavis said. Fadnavis said speeches of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders were "entertaining" as they are bereft of substance. The Congress government did not take any action after the 2008 terror strikes in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, adding the then Prime Minister had no guts to punish Pakistan, from where the attackers had come. Attacking the Congress further, Fadnavis said only Pakistan and the Rahul Gandhi-led party wanted proof of the causalities in the Balakot air strikes. Seeking support of electors for the BJP, Fadnavis said these polls offer to the voters a choice between "those who are for development and those who are for anarchy".

Polls offer choice between development, anarchy: Devendra Fadnavis

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi files his nomination from Varanasi, earlier today PM Modi visited Kal Bhairav temple. Watch this video to know more.

General Election 2019: PM Modi files his nomination from Varanasi

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane.

The Union home minister asserts that BJP will come back to power with a thumping majority as people want the good governance of the Narendra Modi dispensation to continue.

"The way Modiji has led the country at national and international levels in the last five years, there is not an iota of doubt about our win with a three-fourths majority in these polls," he claims.

Singh says as home minister, he worked, among other things, towards curbing insurgency in the Northeast and Naxalism in parts of the country.&nbsp;

"Insurgency in Northeast is almost finished," he told PTI in an interview.

On Naxalism, he says, "We are now in the most favourable position since 1971, when more security personnel used to get killed than Naxals. Now the trend has reversed... Our security forces have been giving a befitting reply and eliminating Naxals."

Earlier Naxals operated in 126 districts, but now their activities are limited to just six-seven districts, he says.&nbsp;

"We are quite sure that in coming days, we will root them out. The elimination of insurgency in the Northeast has been my biggest achievement as home minister...Even beyond my expectations," the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh says.

He also says that as home minister, he made a maximum number of visits to Jammu and Kashmir and tried to find a long-term solution to the region's problems, though it could not yield the desired results.

"Now, the time has come to review articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution (providing special status and rights to the state and its citizens) and assess what Jammu and Kashmir got and what is lost due to these two provisions," he says.

"My ministry also revoked the registration of 20,000 organisations which used to get money from overseas, under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, and were involved in activities which were not in the interest of our country," he says.

Singh, who is contesting Lok Sabha polls from Lucknow, says he does not believe that Modi's persona is overshadowing the work of other lawmakers and ministers.&nbsp; 
"Whatever ministers or MPs do, they do it after getting the team leader's consent, it is but natural. All policy decisions are taken under the chairmanship of the prime minister. So, saying that the work of other ministers or MPs is overshadowed is not right," he says.

"People are smart enough and politically aware. They have their own parameters to gauge public representatives' records and performances," he adds.

To a query why the BJP's campaign has no mention of demonetisation and GST, Singh, who headed the party's manifesto committee, says they are no longer poll issues.

"Their (positive and expected) results have started surfacing. GST has been simplified several times and we have made it abundantly clear that whenever there is a need, we will come up with more simplifications so that the business class does not suffer," he says.

Asked why the BJP has 'imported' candidates from outside the party, like Bhojpuri film actors Nirahua and Ravi Kishan, Bollywood star Sunny Deol and Pragya Thakur, he says it shows the party's "inclusive and pluralistic" character.

"Let me clarify that the BJP's core cadre is quite strong and we have no dearth of candidates. But there are some people in every society who have a large fan following and have some intrinsic political acumen.&nbsp;

"When we get these people in our party, they become an integral part of the BJP family and by this way, our party becomes more inclusive and pluralistic," he reasons.

Asked about the BJP fielded only a few Muslim candidates, he says though he was not in a position to tell the exact number, the party has given tickets to members from the community.&nbsp;

"We are very careful about our core principal - 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. Unfortunately, the opposition parties are unsuccessfully trying to create a fear factor. But we have built a sense of confidence and I am quite sure that we will get their (Muslims) bigger support this time than what we got in the previous Lok Sabha election," he claims.

Singh says North Indians living in Maharashtra always supported the BJP ever since this party came to existence.

He also dubs the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance as an "unbreakable bond".

"The coming together of two parties with same nationalist ideology is very rare. But this is possible only here in Maharashtra. Though we had some differences, but they have been resolved. The BJP-Shiv Sena have an unbreakable bond and we have proved it," he adds.&nbsp;

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane.

Curbing insurgency in the Northeast has been his biggest achievement as home minister, according to Rajnath Singh who says Naxal violence in the country is also on the wane. The Union home minister asserts that BJP will come back to power with a thumping majority as people want the good governance of the Narendra Modi dispensation to continue. "The way Modiji has led the country at national and international levels in the last five years, there is not an iota of doubt about our win with a three-fourths majority in these polls," he claims. Singh says as home minister, he worked, among other things, towards curbing insurgency in the Northeast and Naxalism in parts of the country. "Insurgency in Northeast is almost finished," he told PTI in an interview. On Naxalism, he says, "We are now in the most favourable position since 1971, when more security personnel used to get killed than Naxals. Now the trend has reversed... Our security forces have been giving a befitting reply and eliminating Naxals." Earlier Naxals operated in 126 districts, but now their activities are limited to just six-seven districts, he says. "We are quite sure that in coming days, we will root them out. The elimination of insurgency in the Northeast has been my biggest achievement as home minister...Even beyond my expectations," the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh says. He also says that as home minister, he made a maximum number of visits to Jammu and Kashmir and tried to find a long-term solution to the region's problems, though it could not yield the desired results. "Now, the time has come to review articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution (providing special status and rights to the state and its citizens) and assess what Jammu and Kashmir got and what is lost due to these two provisions," he says. "My ministry also revoked the registration of 20,000 organisations which used to get money from overseas, under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, and were involved in activities which were not in the interest of our country," he says. Singh, who is contesting Lok Sabha polls from Lucknow, says he does not believe that Modi's persona is overshadowing the work of other lawmakers and ministers. "Whatever ministers or MPs do, they do it after getting the team leader's consent, it is but natural. All policy decisions are taken under the chairmanship of the prime minister. So, saying that the work of other ministers or MPs is overshadowed is not right," he says. "People are smart enough and politically aware. They have their own parameters to gauge public representatives' records and performances," he adds. To a query why the BJP's campaign has no mention of demonetisation and GST, Singh, who headed the party's manifesto committee, says they are no longer poll issues. "Their (positive and expected) results have started surfacing. GST has been simplified several times and we have made it abundantly clear that whenever there is a need, we will come up with more simplifications so that the business class does not suffer," he says. Asked why the BJP has 'imported' candidates from outside the party, like Bhojpuri film actors Nirahua and Ravi Kishan, Bollywood star Sunny Deol and Pragya Thakur, he says it shows the party's "inclusive and pluralistic" character. "Let me clarify that the BJP's core cadre is quite strong and we have no dearth of candidates. But there are some people in every society who have a large fan following and have some intrinsic political acumen. "When we get these people in our party, they become an integral part of the BJP family and by this way, our party becomes more inclusive and pluralistic," he reasons. Asked about the BJP fielded only a few Muslim candidates, he says though he was not in a position to tell the exact number, the party has given tickets to members from the community. "We are very careful about our core principal - 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas'. Unfortunately, the opposition parties are unsuccessfully trying to create a fear factor. But we have built a sense of confidence and I am quite sure that we will get their (Muslims) bigger support this time than what we got in the previous Lok Sabha election," he claims. Singh says North Indians living in Maharashtra always supported the BJP ever since this party came to existence. He also dubs the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance as an "unbreakable bond". "The coming together of two parties with same nationalist ideology is very rare. But this is possible only here in Maharashtra. Though we had some differences, but they have been resolved. The BJP-Shiv Sena have an unbreakable bond and we have proved it," he adds.

Curbing insurgency in Northeast my biggest achievement as home minister: Rajnath Singh

Accompanied by a galaxy of top NDA leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday will file his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. Watch full video to know more.

General Election 2019: PM Modi files nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency

An Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader on Friday filed a complaint against cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Friday alleging that he is holding to two voter IDs from two separate constituencies.

Atishi Marlena, AAP leader and East Delhi Lok Sabha candidate, filed a criminal complaint in the trial court seeking direction to police to investigate Bharatiya Janata Party's Gautam Gambhir.

The complaint has been filed under Section 155(2) of the Representation of the People Act at Tis Hazari Court. The court will hear the matter on May 1, news agency ANI reported.

As per Section 17 of the Representation of the People Act, no person is entitled to be enrolled as a voter in more than one constituency.

Gautam Gambhir recently joined Bharatiya Janata Party. He replaced Maheish Girri as the party's candidate and will take on Arvinder Singh Lovely of the Congress and Atishi of the AAP.

Delhi, where seven Lok Sabha seats are at stake will go to poll on May 12. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

A total of 173 nominations have been filed till April 24, and the last date of withdrawal is April 26.&nbsp;

An Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader on Friday filed a complaint against cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Friday alleging that he is holding to two voter IDs from two separate constituencies.

An Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader on Friday filed a complaint against cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Friday alleging that he is holding to two voter IDs from two separate constituencies. Atishi Marlena, AAP leader and East Delhi Lok Sabha candidate, filed a criminal complaint in the trial court seeking direction to police to investigate Bharatiya Janata Party's Gautam Gambhir. The complaint has been filed under Section 155(2) of the Representation of the People Act at Tis Hazari Court. The court will hear the matter on May 1, news agency ANI reported. As per Section 17 of the Representation of the People Act, no person is entitled to be enrolled as a voter in more than one constituency. Gautam Gambhir recently joined Bharatiya Janata Party. He replaced Maheish Girri as the party's candidate and will take on Arvinder Singh Lovely of the Congress and Atishi of the AAP. Delhi, where seven Lok Sabha seats are at stake will go to poll on May 12. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. A total of 173 nominations have been filed till April 24, and the last date of withdrawal is April 26.

Delhi: AAP rival Atishi alleges Gautam Gambhir holds 2 voter IDs; court hearing on May 1

Popular Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi on Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in presence of BJP North West Delhi candidate Hans Raj Hans and union minister Vijay Goel.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir were also present at the event when 'Tunak tunak tun'&nbsp;singer joined the party.

Daler Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans Raj Hans.

A few days ago, the party has also given a ticket to Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans to contest Lok Sabha polls from the North West Delhi constituency.

Hans has replaced MP Udit Raj. 
&nbsp;

Popular Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi on Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in presence of BJP North West Delhi candidate Hans Raj Hans and union minister Vijay Goel.

Popular Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi on Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in presence of BJP North West Delhi candidate Hans Raj Hans and union minister Vijay Goel. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir were also present at the event when 'Tunak tunak tun' singer joined the party. Daler Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans Raj Hans. A few days ago, the party has also given a ticket to Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans to contest Lok Sabha polls from the North West Delhi constituency. Hans has replaced MP Udit Raj.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi joins BJP

Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted on Friday morning that his aircraft to Patna was forced to return to Delhi because of engine trouble. Watch full video to know more.

Congress chief tweets of engine trouble on flight to patna; apologises for delay in rallies

After PM Modi filed his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat today, he also appealed that maximum number of people should come out and vote. Watch full video to know more.#PMModiInVaranasi#ModiNomination#Varanasi #LokSabhaElections2019

'We should make the government and the nation stronger by casting votes.': PM Modi

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties&nbsp; 
leaders were also present.

Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.&nbsp;

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel.

Famous Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi Friday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at its Delhi office here in the presence of Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and Union minister Vijay Goel. BJP's candidate from northwest Delhi constituency Hans Raj Hans, Union minister and Chandni Chowk candidate Harsh Vardhan and other parties leaders were also present. Mehndi's daughter is married to a son of Hans.

Daler Mehndi joins Bharatiya Janata Party

Accompanied by top NDA leaders, PM modi on Friday will file his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. Watch full video to know more.#PMModiInVaranasi#ModiNomination#Varanasi #LokSabhaElections2019

General Election 2019: PM Modi files poll papers in Varanasi, shows off NDA strength

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022.

Akhilesh Yadav also said that his party and the BSP have sacrificed seats in the national interest.

"Our intention is clear right from the word go. We formed an alliance (with BSP and RLD) to stop the communal party and in the process, we in the SP and also the BSP had to sacrifice seats in the national interest," said Akhilesh.

But, the Congress' agenda in the ongoing parliamentary polls is not to stop the BJP from forming the next government at the Centre.

They are working for making the next UP chief minister in 2022 (when the next assembly polls are due), Akhilesh&nbsp;added.

His no holds barred attack came days after he lashed out at the Congress for its "too big ego".

The SP chief's remarks assume significance against the backdrop of Congress president Rahul Gandhi himself asserting that his party will form the government at the Centre and that "after the Lok Sabha polls, the next target was (UP) assembly elections (in 2022) to ensure that the state is at the top in education, health and employment as before."

Maintaining that his alliance with the BSP and the RLD is "strong", Akhilesh said, "Both the parties have sacrificed for the sake of the country.

''We have given up half of our seats only to ensure the communal BJP did not return to power again", Akhilesh said.

When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prediction that the SP-BSP alliance will crack the moment election results are out on May 23, Akhilesh said, "What has the BJP got to do with it? Why are they bothered? In UP we are strong and the BJP is nowhere. And this is the ground reality. They are trailing far behind the alliance."

Asked to comment on Modi terming the alliance as "maha milawat", Akhilesh retorted, "What should we call their (BJP) alliance with 38 parties? We are contesting on core issues and people have seen hope in our alliance."

Trashing Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya's statement that complaints about EVM malfunctioning across the state by the SP show that it has sensed defeat after the third phase of polls, Akhilesh said, "He could not become CM.

''He is still under training. He did not get a helicopter for campaigning for three days. He is nobody in the party", Akhilesh&nbsp;added.

"There are large scale discrepancies in EVM machines in Rampur, Badaun and Mainpuri too. Hundreds of EVMs malfunctioned. Is this not serious?" the former UP CM shot back.

About BJP's campaign targeting corruption during previous SP and BSP regimes, Akhilesh said, "They (BJP) did not have any development issues to raise. Why are they not taking action if there is an anomaly in previous regime works? Who is stopping them?"

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the Congress game plan was not to stop the BJP from forming the government at the Centre, but to come to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2022. Akhilesh Yadav also said that his party and the BSP have sacrificed seats in the national interest. "Our intention is clear right from the word go. We formed an alliance (with BSP and RLD) to stop the communal party and in the process, we in the SP and also the BSP had to sacrifice seats in the national interest," said Akhilesh. But, the Congress' agenda in the ongoing parliamentary polls is not to stop the BJP from forming the next government at the Centre. They are working for making the next UP chief minister in 2022 (when the next assembly polls are due), Akhilesh added. His no holds barred attack came days after he lashed out at the Congress for its "too big ego". The SP chief's remarks assume significance against the backdrop of Congress president Rahul Gandhi himself asserting that his party will form the government at the Centre and that "after the Lok Sabha polls, the next target was (UP) assembly elections (in 2022) to ensure that the state is at the top in education, health and employment as before." Maintaining that his alliance with the BSP and the RLD is "strong", Akhilesh said, "Both the parties have sacrificed for the sake of the country. ''We have given up half of our seats only to ensure the communal BJP did not return to power again", Akhilesh said. When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prediction that the SP-BSP alliance will crack the moment election results are out on May 23, Akhilesh said, "What has the BJP got to do with it? Why are they bothered? In UP we are strong and the BJP is nowhere. And this is the ground reality. They are trailing far behind the alliance." Asked to comment on Modi terming the alliance as "maha milawat", Akhilesh retorted, "What should we call their (BJP) alliance with 38 parties? We are contesting on core issues and people have seen hope in our alliance." Trashing Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya's statement that complaints about EVM malfunctioning across the state by the SP show that it has sensed defeat after the third phase of polls, Akhilesh said, "He could not become CM. ''He is still under training. He did not get a helicopter for campaigning for three days. He is nobody in the party", Akhilesh added. "There are large scale discrepancies in EVM machines in Rampur, Badaun and Mainpuri too. Hundreds of EVMs malfunctioned. Is this not serious?" the former UP CM shot back. About BJP's campaign targeting corruption during previous SP and BSP regimes, Akhilesh said, "They (BJP) did not have any development issues to raise. Why are they not taking action if there is an anomaly in previous regime works? Who is stopping them?"

Congress more keen on forming government in UP in 2022, rather than halting BJP: Akhilesh Yadav

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/akhilesh-yadav">Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav </a>lashed out at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/akhilesh-calls-congress-sabse-dhokebaaz-party-211959">Congress</a>, saying that the Rahul Gandhi-led party betrayed the SP.

"If there is somebody who has betrayed the Samajwadi Party then it is the Congress," said Yadav at an election rally in Kanpur on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-akhilesh-yadav-and-mayawati-are-pm-material-says-shatrughan-sinha-213364">Akhilesh</a>’s SP had formed an alliance with Congress for the Uttar Pradesh Legislative election in 2017. However, the relations between the two parties soured after they faced a drubbing in the polls.

"Ye sahi hai ki hamara gathbandhan tha lekin hame nahi pata tha ki Congress mein zyada ghamand hai, gathbandhan kuch nahi hota ghamand zyada badi cheez hai. (It’s true that we had formed an alliance, but we didn’t know that Congress party is more arrogant. For them arrogance is more important but alliance is nothing),” Akhilesh added.

Ahead of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, there was speculation that Congress would stitch an alliance with SP and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Uttar Pradesh but Akhilesh joined hands with the BSP, keeping the Congress out of their seat-sharing agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav lashed out at the Congress, saying that the Rahul Gandhi-led party betrayed the SP. "If there is somebody who has betrayed the Samajwadi Party then it is the Congress," said Yadav at an election rally in Kanpur on Wednesday.

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav lashed out at the Congress, saying that the Rahul Gandhi-led party betrayed the SP. "If there is somebody who has betrayed the Samajwadi Party then it is the Congress," said Yadav at an election rally in Kanpur on Wednesday. Akhilesh’s SP had formed an alliance with Congress for the Uttar Pradesh Legislative election in 2017. However, the relations between the two parties soured after they faced a drubbing in the polls. "Ye sahi hai ki hamara gathbandhan tha lekin hame nahi pata tha ki Congress mein zyada ghamand hai, gathbandhan kuch nahi hota ghamand zyada badi cheez hai. (It’s true that we had formed an alliance, but we didn’t know that Congress party is more arrogant. For them arrogance is more important but alliance is nothing),” Akhilesh added. Ahead of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, there was speculation that Congress would stitch an alliance with SP and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Uttar Pradesh but Akhilesh joined hands with the BSP, keeping the Congress out of their seat-sharing agreement.

If there is somebody who has betrayed the Samajwadi Party then it is Congress: Akhilesh Yadav

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