Speaking on the 128th birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar, PM Modi commended the contribution of Baba Sahab and said it was all because of his efforts that today the country's President, Vice President and Prime Minister have come from the deprived class.

Addressing a rally in Aligarh on Sunday, PM Modi said, "This is the strength of Baba Sahab Ambedkar's constitution that today common men from the deprived and exploited class have become the country's president, vice president and prime minister".

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PM in Aligarh: Ye Baba Sahab Ambedkar ke samvidhaan ki taqat hai ki aaj vanchit-soshit samaj se nikal kar desh ke rashtrapati pad par ek sajjan baithe hain, gaon kisan ke saamanya parivaar se up-rashtrapati pad par koi baitha hai.Baba sahab ki kripa hai ki ek chaiwala PM bana hai <a href="https://t.co/FUM7iyY7hg">pic.twitter.com/FUM7iyY7hg</a>
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Attacking the anti-BJP alliance formed for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, he said while people wanted to get rid of terrorism, those in the "maha milawat" wanted to remove him from power.

"Tell me whether terrorism should be eliminated or not, whether we should enter Pakistan and kill the terrorists, whether we should conduct surgical strikes and airstrikes, whether our jawans should get a free hand or not? Has your chowkidar done the right thing?,&nbsp;" he asked.

"Imagine only for a second that if there was a small goof-up in the surgical strike or airstrikes carried out by us, wouldn't all of them have ripped Modi apart (Modi ki chamdhi udhedh dete ki nahi, Modi ke baal noch lete ki nahi)?.... But what would happen to Modi later on, should the decision be based on this? Modi never thinks about himself, he thinks about the country."

Stating that Uttar Pradesh could not attain the place it deserved in the country due to its politics, Modi said, "People talk about Bengaluru, Chennai and Ahmedabad. Tell me whether they should also talk about UP or not? Should we allow such a powerful state to languish?

"I want to take UP to the number one spot as far as the economy and the social set-up are concerned. I want to restore UP's glory, which it had enjoyed in the era of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. And for this, I need your support."

(With inputs from PTI)

Speaking on the 128th birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar, PM Modi commended the contribution of Baba Sahab and said it was all because of his efforts that today the country's President, Vice President and Prime Minister have come from the deprived class.

Speaking on the 128th birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar, PM Modi commended the contribution of Baba Sahab and said it was all because of his efforts that today the country's President, Vice President and Prime Minister have come from the deprived class. Addressing a rally in Aligarh on Sunday, PM Modi said, "This is the strength of Baba Sahab Ambedkar's constitution that today common men from the deprived and exploited class have become the country's president, vice president and prime minister". PM in Aligarh: Ye Baba Sahab Ambedkar ke samvidhaan ki taqat hai ki aaj vanchit-soshit samaj se nikal kar desh ke rashtrapati pad par ek sajjan baithe hain, gaon kisan ke saamanya parivaar se up-rashtrapati pad par koi baitha hai.Baba sahab ki kripa hai ki ek chaiwala PM bana hai pic.twitter.com/FUM7iyY7hg — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 14, 2019 × Attacking the anti-BJP alliance formed for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, he said while people wanted to get rid of terrorism, those in the "maha milawat" wanted to remove him from power. "Tell me whether terrorism should be eliminated or not, whether we should enter Pakistan and kill the terrorists, whether we should conduct surgical strikes and airstrikes, whether our jawans should get a free hand or not? Has your chowkidar done the right thing?, " he asked. "Imagine only for a second that if there was a small goof-up in the surgical strike or airstrikes carried out by us, wouldn't all of them have ripped Modi apart (Modi ki chamdhi udhedh dete ki nahi, Modi ke baal noch lete ki nahi)?.... But what would happen to Modi later on, should the decision be based on this? Modi never thinks about himself, he thinks about the country." Stating that Uttar Pradesh could not attain the place it deserved in the country due to its politics, Modi said, "People talk about Bengaluru, Chennai and Ahmedabad. Tell me whether they should also talk about UP or not? Should we allow such a powerful state to languish? "I want to take UP to the number one spot as far as the economy and the social set-up are concerned. I want to restore UP's glory, which it had enjoyed in the era of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. And for this, I need your support." (With inputs from PTI)

People want to get rid of terrorism, those in 'maha milawat' want to remove Modi: PM

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls".

“People are enthusiastic about Priyanka Gandhi. The day she enters electoral politics, people will welcome her. She will win from wherever she contests the poll, "he said.

Speaking on Priyanka Gandhi's husband's entry into politics, he said&nbsp;the Congress would never refuse to include Robert Vadra in the party as he is also part of the family.

Babbar said the party will happily bring her husband and businessman Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes.

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Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar on Robert Vadra: Agar wo chahenge to party unke baare mein, zaroor chahegi ki wo parivaar ka hisaa hain, party mein sammilit karne ke liye kaun mana karega unko? <a href="https://t.co/1dmuw9MLzs">pic.twitter.com/1dmuw9MLzs</a>
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Lok Sabha elections are being held from April 11 and will go on till May 19 in seven phases.&nbsp;

The polls in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls".

Exhibiting confidence over Priyanka Gandhi's victory in elections, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar said on Sunday, "Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will get elected from any seat she chooses to contest the Lok Sabha polls". “People are enthusiastic about Priyanka Gandhi. The day she enters electoral politics, people will welcome her. She will win from wherever she contests the poll, "he said. Speaking on Priyanka Gandhi's husband's entry into politics, he said the Congress would never refuse to include Robert Vadra in the party as he is also part of the family. Babbar said the party will happily bring her husband and businessman Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes. Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar on Robert Vadra: Agar wo chahenge to party unke baare mein, zaroor chahegi ki wo parivaar ka hisaa hain, party mein sammilit karne ke liye kaun mana karega unko? pic.twitter.com/1dmuw9MLzs — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 14, 2019 × Lok Sabha elections are being held from April 11 and will go on till May 19 in seven phases. The polls in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Congress will happily bring Robert Vadra into its fold if he wishes: Raj Babbar

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

"Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh.

"Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said.

SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats.

Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018.&nbsp;

"Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said.&nbsp;

Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate.

The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months.

"The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji.&nbsp;

Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared.

Taking a swipe at SP-BSP alliance, BJP leader Naresh Agarwal on Saturday said that Akhilesh Yadav will be seen running on the road after Mayawati will break alliance with the Samajwadi party the very next day results for Lok Sabha elections are declared. "Counting will be held on May 23 and on May 24 Mayawati will say that she is breaking that alliance since Muslims and Aheer had deceived her and then Akhilesh will be seen running on roads," Agarwal said while campaigning for a BJP candidate in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh. "Like the last emperor of Mughal was Jafar Shah Rangeela, the last emperor of Yadav family is Akhilesh Yadav," he said. SP has stitched an alliance with BSP and RLD in Uttar Pradesh. Out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, SP will contest on 37 seats, BSP on 38 and RLD on 3 seats. Agarwal criticised Akhilesh for not declaring him as SP`s candidate for Rajya Sabha in 2018. "Why did they not give the ticket to me? Because he (Akhilesh) likes an actress. They had denied me a ticket at this age," he said. Agarwal had joined the BJP last year after he was denied ticket of the Rajya Sabha and Akhilesh Yadav-led party had selected Jaya Bachchan as Rajya Sabha candidate. The BJP leader further attacked the Mahagathbandhan saying that the coalition governments in the past had only lasted for six months. "The government cannot run for five years under Mulayam, Mayawati, Mamata and Akhilesh. There were coalition governments before under Chandrashekhar ji, Charan Singh ji, VP Singh, Devegowda ji. Their governments had lasted for only six months," Agarwal said."What you need a government of five years of just six months. This election is between nationalism and separatism," he added.

Mayawati will break alliance with Akhilesh after Lok Sabha poll results: Naresh Agarwal

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress.&nbsp;

"Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted.&nbsp;

The Delhi CM also alleged that every political party other than Modi-led BJP is pressing for verification of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-to-approach-supreme-court-again-to-demand-verification-of-50-votes-by-paper-trails-210298">50 per cent of the votes through paper trails</a>, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"If BJP does not want Voter Verifies Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to be counted, then why did they spend 9,000 crores on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)? They do not want VVPAT to be counted since they are benefiting from the laxity," CM Kejriwal told media persons on Sunday.

The Delhi chief minister also alleged that the Election Commission (EC) only listens to concerns of the BJP.&nbsp;

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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on if discussions on Congress-AAP alliance are still underway: The country is in danger. To save the country from Modi Ji &amp; Amit Shah Ji's 'jodi', we are ready to do whatever is needed. Our efforts will continue till the end. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/ryvtACTrQj">pic.twitter.com/ryvtACTrQj</a>
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Just a day ago, Andhra CM and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system.&nbsp;

Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy."

The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI on Saturday over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his party is ready to do "whatever is needed to save the country from Modi ji and Amit Shah ji". Kejriwal was reacting on a query relating to AAP's decision on an alliance with Congress. "Our efforts will continue till the end," Kejriwal noted. The Delhi CM also alleged that every political party other than Modi-led BJP is pressing for verification of 50 per cent of the votes through paper trails, news agency ANI reported. "If BJP does not want Voter Verifies Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to be counted, then why did they spend 9,000 crores on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)? They do not want VVPAT to be counted since they are benefiting from the laxity," CM Kejriwal told media persons on Sunday. The Delhi chief minister also alleged that the Election Commission (EC) only listens to concerns of the BJP. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on if discussions on Congress-AAP alliance are still underway: The country is in danger. To save the country from Modi Ji & Amit Shah Ji's 'jodi', we are ready to do whatever is needed. Our efforts will continue till the end. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/ryvtACTrQj — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2019 × Just a day ago, Andhra CM and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system. Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy." The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI on Saturday over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Will do whatever is needed to save country from Modi, Amit Shah: Arvind Kejriwal on alliance with Congress

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.

Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi.

Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will take place on May 23. 
&nbsp;

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister Naina Jadeja on Sunday joined the Congress party in presence of the local leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. This comes almost a month after Jadeja's wife Rivaba Jadeja joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Rivaba had joined the BJP in the presence of Gujarat cabinet minister R C Faldu, MP Poonamben, and MLA Bakubai Jadeja ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Earlier Rivaba and her husband Jadeja had met Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi. Polling for 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat will be held in a single phase on April 23. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja's sister joins Congress

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’

“Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event.

“As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman.

The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks.

“Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.”

“No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said.

“That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman.

Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

“The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said.

Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots.

“Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.”

“His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said.

Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport.

“Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.”

Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country.

“Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.&nbsp;

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.

Political will was lacking to retaliate the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2018, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Bengaluru on Sunday, while accusing the Congress party of ‘politicising the armed forces.’ “Nobody wants to politicise armed forces but is it wrong to highlight after Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, then Central government did not give free hand to armed forces to act against the perpetrators of the heinous act. The political will was lacking,” she said while speaking at an event. “As a result, we had continuous threat and attacks by non-state actors from across the border with a complete backing of Pakistani agencies,” said Defence Minister Sitharaman. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, also referred to as 26/11, had been carried out by 10 terrorists, belonging to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. At least 174 people were killed in a series of 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, which had lasted four days across Mumbai. Nearly 300 others had been injured in these attacks. “Today in a horrible incident like Pulwama, where a suicide bomber takes the life of 40 of our soldiers, the country felt is this what we are capable of, repeatedly getting attacked, of getting bombed without taking action against the people responsible. There was a similar feeling in 2008.” “No action was taken then. Action is being taken now. Political will based on sound intelligence information gives the freedom to armed forces to take necessary action as they deem fit,” she said. “That is not the politicisation of armed forces. We are stating what happened post-2008 and what happened post-Pulwama. So what is this narrative being put forth by those who are peddling the argument that armed forces are being politicised,” asked Sitharaman. Talking about how the current NDA government is different from the Congress-led UPA dispensation, she said that there were multiple problems like soaring prices of pulse, inflation, and corruption which led to the Congress’ defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. “The economy was under severe strain. Prices went beyond everyone’s control. The pulse prices soared to Rs 150-200 a kg. Corruption was in every sector. The government was not able to act. That was the kind of ruling party you had in 2014. Now we have proven ourselves to you in the last five years. Not once did the inflation go up. The prices remained constant,” she said. Citing the example of how India has become self-sufficient in the production of pulses, Sitharaman said that India was better off in every aspect under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of his far-sightedness and his resolve to weed out problems from their roots. “Prime Minister Modi does not look for temporary solutions. He is inherently the kind of leader who is looking for a long term solution. Be it making India an open defecation free (ODF) country where every house has a toilet or giving a house to every Indian by 2022.” “His visions are long-term. For 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th year of Independence, PM Modi has summarised India shall be out of this developing country jargon,” she said. Without naming any Congress leader, she referred to “a spurious website” which had questioned the efficacy of electronic voting machines (EVMs), and which recently also claimed that during demonetisation “some fantastic amount of Indian currency” was printed somewhere outside and brought in by the Indian Air Force to Hindon airport. “Is that not defamation of the armed forces? Is that not the politicisation of armed forces? I respect the veterans but no voices to condemn the accusations against the Air Force were heard? But these voices got active when the armed forces were given the liberty to take action as deemed fit, and we are asked to not politicise armed forces.” Asserting that India is on the path of change under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, she said that the current 2019 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial one for the country. “Each election is important in its own way, but this election of 2019 is very critical and crucial. Therefore, I underline the importance of 2019 being historically very important. It is happening at a time when India’s youths are more in number than the middle-aged and senior citizens,” she said.

Political will was lacking to retaliate 2008 Mumbai terror attack: Nirmala Sitharaman

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls.

The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-parties-to-approach-supreme-court-again-to-demand-verification-of-50-votes-by-paper-trails-210298">so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi</a> is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said.

Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail.

The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said.

The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said.

The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra.

Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family".

"Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged.

Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004.

Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP.

"Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said.

He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes.

"People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said.

Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress."

Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said.

Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.&nbsp;

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said.

The BJP Sunday termed the opposition parties meeting in Delhi an exercise "to find excuses for their impending massive defeat" in the Lok Sabha polls. The opposition alliance is a misnomer because most of them are fighting elections separately, BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said. "The so-called all-party meeting convened in Delhi is nothing but a confession of defeat by the so-called Mahagathbandhan. They are already trying to find excuses for their impending massive defeat. They have not only failed to mount a challenge against the BJP in this election but have also failed as an opposition in the last five years," Rao said. Raising doubts over the credibility of EVMs, a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Samajwadi Party, CPI and CPI(M), Sunday said they will move the Supreme Court again to demand verification of at least 50 per cent of votes by paper trail. The people are delivering a massive blow to "this negative opposition" and their attempts to really come together is only "to express confession of their defeat in the ongoing elections," he said. The only thing they have in common is negativity and that they want to pull India back from the development it has witnessed in the last five years, he said. The BJP also took a dig at the Congress for fielding its MLA Lalit Nagar as its Lok Sabha candidate from Faridabad in Haryana, alleging that he was named because his brother played a role in various land deals involving Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's brother-in law Robert Vadra. Alleging that Nagar's brother signed several documents on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, Rober Vadra and Priyanka Vadra, Rao said "he is the benami of the family". "Why has the Congress party fielded a benami as a candidate, is this out of pressure, is this out of love or does this not clearly establish that all those who are involved in property scandals are actually extremely close to Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi himself," he alleged. Rao also asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to answer questions about all the "shady and murky" property deals that he and his brother-in-law got into after coming to power in 2004. Referring to the purchase of some properties, Rao also sought to know the sources of Rahul's incomes and how has his assets increased over the years despite he having no other source of income except being an MP. "Rahul Gandhi's alliance with middlemen, brokers, property mafias and his sympathetic approach towards separatists and even terrorists clearly show that Congress party's real alliance in this country is with negative and evil forces only," he said. He further alleged that Gandhi's public interactions and speeches only show frustration of the party for not being able to "reverse the negative trend" and therefore indulging in lot of negative vibes. "People will punish the Congress for not only failing as an opposition in the last five years but also indulging in reckless statements and reckless acts of political buffoonery," he said. Referring to the all-party meeting of opposition leaders in the national capital, Rao said,"Mr Naidu's visit to Delhi is the result of his frustration after sensing a massive drubbing in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously in the state assembly and Lok Sabha polls and the only other party in deep frustration in Delhi is Congress." Mr Naidu may travel to other parts of the country to jointly cry over their impending defeat in the national and assembly polls. "This is an indication that the so-called grand alliance looks extremely depleted, completely frustrated and this alliance is looking for massive excuses for the impending defeat," the BJP leader said. Reacting to Congress' demand for a thorough probe into the alleged transportation of a "suspicious black trunk" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter during his visit to Chitradurg in Karnataka, Rao said these are baseless allegations and the "Congress party which is synonymous to corruption" should come out clean on their issues.

Party meeting is confession of defeat by so-called Mahagathbandhan: BJP

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi.

"It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution.

"Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East.

Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution.

Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years.

"He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged.

Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi.

"If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.&nbsp;

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it.

Coming down heavily on the BJP, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it. Holding a roadshow in Silchar in support of Congress candidate and sitting MP Sushmita Dev, she also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has toured the world over, but hardly spent time in his own constituency in Varanasi. "It is 'Mahapurush' (B R) Ambedkar ji's birth anniversary. He laid the foundation of this country through the Constitution. It is the duty of every leader to respect that Constitution. "Today, you are seeing that the Constitution is not respected and an attempt is being made to destroy it," said Gandhi, who is Congress's general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh East. Slamming the BJP's manifesto, she said there is no space for different cultures and religions in it, as well as any respect for the Constitution. Gandhi said she was told by people in Varanasi that Modi did not spend even five minutes with anyone there in the last five years. "He went to America and hugged there, went to China and hugged there, too. He went and hugged in Russia and Africa. He went to Japan and played the drum. In Pakistan, he had biriyani. But in his own constituency, he did not go once to a family's house to enquire about their condition," she alleged. Speaking highly of Sushmita Dev, Gandhi likened the Congress lawmaker with her grandmother and former prime minister Indira Gandhi. "If you remember Indira Gandhi even today, it is because she worked for you. I have come here for Sushmita. She has that courage which Indira ji had. Sushmita has that honest and good intention, and wants to work for you from the heart," she added.

Attempt being made to destroy the Constitution: Priyanka Gandhi

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-a-couple-of-days-after-polls-chandrababu-naidu-raises-questions-over-evms-asks-election-commission-to-revert-to-ballot-system-210068"> EVM malfunctioning</a>.

The parties said they would approach&nbsp;the Supreme Court&nbsp;over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand&nbsp;at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs.

"EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said.

Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment.

He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs.

"We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate.&nbsp;

Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, &nbsp;there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs.

Targetting the Election Commission on Sunday, leaders of 21 opposition political parties held a meeting in Delhi to discuss the issue of EVM malfunctioning. The parties said they would approach the Supreme Court over the "malfunctioning and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)" and would demand at least 50 per cent of paper trails be verified with EVMs. Addressing the media in the national capital, leaders from the political parties accused the Election Commission of not taking the issues seriously and said that the EC "failed" the country and its people. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who Saturday met Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora to raise the issue of EVM malfunctioning, said 21 political parties have demanded verification of VVPAT paper trails of 50 per cent of the EVMs. "EC is acting under BJP, they are not correct, they have to act impartially which they are not doing. Also, we doubt even EVMs are under manipulation and that's why we are demanding 50% counting of VVPATs. They are not agreeing", Naidu said. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said opposition parties will approach the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the EC for counting of at least 50 per cent of the VVPAT slips with the EVMs in every assembly segment. He said the opposition parties will carry out a nationwide campaign on the issue of discrepancies in EVMs. "We do not think the EC is doing enough to address the issue of EVM malfunctioning," Singhvi alleged. The Supreme Court Monday directed the EC to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per assembly segment, from one at present, in the Lok Sabha polls, saying it will provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but the entire electorate. Meanwhile taking a dig at the Centre, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, there's no in-built fault in EVMs, BJP tampering with them: Arvind Kejriwal. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition parties to approach Supreme Court again to demand verification of 50% votes by paper trails

Union <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-make-sedition-law-even-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-209977">Home Minister Rajnath Singh</a> on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj&nbsp;Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi".&nbsp;

Singh, while addressing a gathering in Nagina, Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, said that "it could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP".

"They came together knowing that they all will be swept away in the Modi wave," Singh added.&nbsp;

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HM Rajnath Singh in Nagina, Bijnor: SP-BSP have formed an alliance to stop Narendra Modi ji. It could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP. They knew 'Modi ki aandhi mein hum (SP and BSP) akele tinke ki tarah beh jaenge', so they came together. <a href="https://t.co/Lez0oGQX5D">pic.twitter.com/Lez0oGQX5D</a>
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Meanwhile, the Home Minister on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi".

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party for forging an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for Lok Sabha polls. Singh noted that the alliance has been "formed to stop Narendra Modi". Singh, while addressing a gathering in Nagina, Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, said that "it could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP". "They came together knowing that they all will be swept away in the Modi wave," Singh added. HM Rajnath Singh in Nagina, Bijnor: SP-BSP have formed an alliance to stop Narendra Modi ji. It could have never been imagined that these two parties will come together in UP. They knew 'Modi ki aandhi mein hum (SP and BSP) akele tinke ki tarah beh jaenge', so they came together. pic.twitter.com/Lez0oGQX5D — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 14, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Home Minister on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term. Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

They came together knowing that they'll be swept away in Modi wave: Rajnath Singh on SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction.&nbsp;

Addressing an election rally&nbsp;in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said Congress policies were behind the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from Valley.&nbsp;

''Congress might avoid taking their name but this chowkidar is committed to letting Kashmiri Pandits live on their land. We're also making efforts to form a law to provide citizenship to families which have come here helplessly from Pakistan,'' Modi said.

By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, you have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders, opportunists, he added.

Modi also accused Abdullah and Mufti family of destroying the lives of three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and said they can not divide the country.

''Two families have ruined three generations of Jammu and Kashmir. For better future of the state, they need to be voted out,'' he said.&nbsp;

Modi also attacked Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh for his ''devotion to Gandhi family''.

''I can understand the kind of pressure which must have been put on him for such parivar bhakti','' Modi said.

Accusing the Congress of politicising Jallianwala Bagh centenary event, Modi said vice president was in Jallianwala Bagh for the event but Congress chief minister from the state was not present.&nbsp;

Modi also said ''Congress never trusted the valour of Indian armed forces'' &nbsp;and accused it of ''doubting IAF strikes in Balakot''.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that he was committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places in Kashmir and work has started in that direction. Addressing an election rally in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said Congress policies were behind the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from Valley. ''Congress might avoid taking their name but this chowkidar is committed to letting Kashmiri Pandits live on their land. We're also making efforts to form a law to provide citizenship to families which have come here helplessly from Pakistan,'' Modi said. By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, you have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders, opportunists, he added. Modi also accused Abdullah and Mufti family of destroying the lives of three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and said they can not divide the country. ''Two families have ruined three generations of Jammu and Kashmir. For better future of the state, they need to be voted out,'' he said. Modi also attacked Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh for his ''devotion to Gandhi family''. ''I can understand the kind of pressure which must have been put on him for such parivar bhakti','' Modi said. Accusing the Congress of politicising Jallianwala Bagh centenary event, Modi said vice president was in Jallianwala Bagh for the event but Congress chief minister from the state was not present. Modi also said ''Congress never trusted the valour of Indian armed forces'' and accused it of ''doubting IAF strikes in Balakot''.

Committed to settling displaced Kashmiri Pandits in their native places: PM Modi 

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement.

Alok Chakraborty, Central Committee President, INTUC (National Union of Plantation Workers) said, " Tea garden workers especially those who stay in remote areas are completely unaware of paid leaves concept and the tea companies for their own benefits do not even bother to inform them of this existing notice."

A tea estate worker from North Bengal said, "I know that voting is my right and I go to the polling booth to cast my vote however my company declares it as an off day and we lose a day's pay."

With tea export business witnessing a boom, the present scenario of tea market is pleasant but the condition of tea garden workers remains poor.

A study shows that with the increasing demand for Indian tea in the international market, especially Assam and Darjeeling tea is doing a fair amount of business. However, because of poor coordination between state and central government, the labourers are unable to reap the benefits.

"Equation between the Central and State government is not well, and as an obvious consequence, the tea garden workers pay the price," Chakraborty said.

As per the latest direction by the state government, the daily wage of a tea worker should be Rs 176. They are also liable to receive provident fund and gratuity.

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement.

As per a notice issued by the state government to tea companies, the Tea garden workers in North Bengal will get a 'paid leave' to participate in the electoral process, however, most of the workers are unaware of this announcement. Alok Chakraborty, Central Committee President, INTUC (National Union of Plantation Workers) said, " Tea garden workers especially those who stay in remote areas are completely unaware of paid leaves concept and the tea companies for their own benefits do not even bother to inform them of this existing notice." A tea estate worker from North Bengal said, "I know that voting is my right and I go to the polling booth to cast my vote however my company declares it as an off day and we lose a day's pay." With tea export business witnessing a boom, the present scenario of tea market is pleasant but the condition of tea garden workers remains poor. A study shows that with the increasing demand for Indian tea in the international market, especially Assam and Darjeeling tea is doing a fair amount of business. However, because of poor coordination between state and central government, the labourers are unable to reap the benefits. "Equation between the Central and State government is not well, and as an obvious consequence, the tea garden workers pay the price," Chakraborty said. As per the latest direction by the state government, the daily wage of a tea worker should be Rs 176. They are also liable to receive provident fund and gratuity.

West Bengal: Unaware of 'paid leave' concept on polling day, tea garden workers lose day's pay 

In a technology-driven world where markets are inundated with fancy machine-made goods, many handmade crafts are fading into insignificance. One such craft form that is facing a bleak future is clay art making in Begusarai in Bihar.

Begusarai is home to a large number of clay artisans who have been making idols of gods, water pots, decorative homeware and toys for generations. But poor monetary returns and the absence of any government support has meant a steady decline in the number of artisans engaged in the profession.

Bimal Devi, who has been making clay idols all her life, says her children have no interest in joining the family business. "This is our family business. Nowadays I only manage to earn daily wages to survive. Nothing much can be done with this paltry sum of money. My children are not ready to join this profession as there is no money in it. Making a small idol takes about an hour and it fetches me only Rs 10 or 12," she says.

While many artisans are moving on in search of better paying work, several like Kailash Pandit have been left behind not because of their love for the profession, but because of lack of choice due to little or no educational qualifications.

"I am in this profession since I was 12. Though I do not get any benefits out of it, I will have to continue with this profession as I have no other option or alternative." Pandit's children have, however, chosen to take up other professions.

The artisans are now hoping that the government looks into their plight and takes necessary steps to breathe life into the fast-dying profession.

Sudhir Kumar, the head of the community, says, "The government should take initiative to promote this art. The clay that is used for making these idols and pieces of art, is very expensive and the government should provide them at subsidised rates. They should also provide us with a platform where we can sell these artistically-rich products.

In a technology-driven world where markets are inundated with fancy machine-made goods, many handmade crafts are fading into insignificance. One such craft form that is facing a bleak future is clay art making in Begusarai in Bihar.

In a technology-driven world where markets are inundated with fancy machine-made goods, many handmade crafts are fading into insignificance. One such craft form that is facing a bleak future is clay art making in Begusarai in Bihar. Begusarai is home to a large number of clay artisans who have been making idols of gods, water pots, decorative homeware and toys for generations. But poor monetary returns and the absence of any government support has meant a steady decline in the number of artisans engaged in the profession. Bimal Devi, who has been making clay idols all her life, says her children have no interest in joining the family business. "This is our family business. Nowadays I only manage to earn daily wages to survive. Nothing much can be done with this paltry sum of money. My children are not ready to join this profession as there is no money in it. Making a small idol takes about an hour and it fetches me only Rs 10 or 12," she says. While many artisans are moving on in search of better paying work, several like Kailash Pandit have been left behind not because of their love for the profession, but because of lack of choice due to little or no educational qualifications. "I am in this profession since I was 12. Though I do not get any benefits out of it, I will have to continue with this profession as I have no other option or alternative." Pandit's children have, however, chosen to take up other professions. The artisans are now hoping that the government looks into their plight and takes necessary steps to breathe life into the fast-dying profession. Sudhir Kumar, the head of the community, says, "The government should take initiative to promote this art. The clay that is used for making these idols and pieces of art, is very expensive and the government should provide them at subsidised rates. They should also provide us with a platform where we can sell these artistically-rich products.

Begusarai clay artisans want govt support for their dying art 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India.

The prime minister was referring to NC leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir.

He also targeted the Congress for the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley and said his government was committed to settling the displaced community in their native places and that work has started in this direction.

The Prime Minister also hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh for skipping Saturday's event to pay respects to martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

On doubts raised by some opposition leaders on the Balakot air strikes, Modi said Congress has never trusted valour of Indian armed forces.

He said the wave in favour of the BJP was stronger this time than in 2014.

According to opinion polls and surveys, the BJP will get thrice the seats that Congress will win, he said.

By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, voters have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders and opportunists, he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday slammed the Abdullahs and Muftis, saying two families "ruined" three generations of Jammu and Kashmir and he will not allow them to "divide" India. The prime minister was referring to NC leader Omar Abdullah's demand for a separate prime minister for Jammu and Kashmir. He also targeted the Congress for the migration of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley and said his government was committed to settling the displaced community in their native places and that work has started in this direction. The Prime Minister also hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh for skipping Saturday's event to pay respects to martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. On doubts raised by some opposition leaders on the Balakot air strikes, Modi said Congress has never trusted valour of Indian armed forces. He said the wave in favour of the BJP was stronger this time than in 2014. According to opinion polls and surveys, the BJP will get thrice the seats that Congress will win, he said. By coming out to vote in large numbers in Baramulla and Jammu, voters have given a befitting reply to terrorist leaders and opportunists, he added.

Will not allow Abdullahs, Muftis to divide India: PM Modi in Kathua

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-will-do-nyay-to-governments-of-the-great-mgr-asks-pm-modi-in-tamil-nadu-210024">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls.

Addressing a massive rally in Bengaluru, he said the Congress has promised to remove the Army from Jammu and Kashmir, saying "exactly what Pakistan says word to word in Pakistan's language."

Devoting most parts of his speech to national security, Modi said the Congress had spoken about coming to power in its manifesto and added, "who can stop one from dreaming? "&nbsp;

"But let them dream about forming the government. I can understand it because a chaiwala has robbed the opportunity of four generations of Sultanate," he said.

Modi said what was worrying was that the Congress has said in its manifesto that if they form the government in Delhi, they would "remove" AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) that gives special powers to the soldiers.

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PM:When Congress' 'mahamilavati remote govt' was at centre, didn't blasts occur in Bengaluru?Didn't the nation was living under fear of terror attacks?Did any major blast took place in last 5 yrs of your "chowkidaar's chowkidaari".It was power of your 1 vote that made it possible <a href="https://t.co/Go5tyjbXEV">pic.twitter.com/Go5tyjbXEV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117074020095098880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Which way are they going? Didn't you feel the pain and anger hearing this? The Jammu Kashmir for which thousands of soldiers were martyred, you want to make soldiers unarmed, helpless?" he asked the crowd.

Modi said Congress had also said in Pakistan's language that they would remove the army from Jammu and Kashmir.

"Is this okay with you, will you be able to forgive Congress?.

Pandit Nehru sowed the seed of fire in Kashmir and still, the country is bearing it, now they say they will remove the army from there, what is the meaning of it?"

Modi also referred to the talk about having two prime ministers -one in Hindustan and the other in J&amp;K (by National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah).

"Their talk of removing the law (AFSPA), removing the military and their Milavati friends talk about second Prime Minister.

If you see all these together, does Congress want to save Kashmir? Will you allow Kashmir to go away? The land on which our soldiers have shed their blood," Modi asked.

The Congress manifesto said the party proposed to reduce the presence of the Indian Army and central armed police forces (CAPFs) in the Kashmir valley.

It said the AFSPA and the Disturbed Areas Act in Jammu and Kashmir would be reviewed.

Referring to the air strike and surgical strike on terror camps in Pakistan and launch of ASAT (Anti Satellite) by India, Modi said the whole world was with India.

"Earlier whenever such things or statements were made, Russia used to be with us and the entire world with Pakistan. Now what has happened is China alone is with Pakistan while the entire world was with us. 
Isn't it India's strength? he asked.

"You might have felt Congress processor is slow, but their software is corrupt.

Their process is fast the only when something has to be done against the country's security and demoralise our brave soldiers," Modi said.

The Prime Minister also hit out at the Congress for its promise to review the sedition law, saying it wants to remove law to punish those who indulge in treason.

"Will you accept such Congress and their allies?"

Making such promises, can we forgive the Congress that has such a mindset?, he asked, telling voters that "in this election, punish Congress in such a way and also their allies that they should not be able to save their deposits."

The prime minister also took exception to the political row created by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance over the recent Income Tax raids on several JDS men across Karnataka.

Modi asked the crowd, "should the law be followed or not whether it is PM or CM or minister? Why get scared if you have not committed anything&nbsp; 
wrong?" he asked.

On March 28, the Income Tax department carried out raids at multiple locations in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Shivamogga and Hassan, triggering a strong reaction from Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress leaders, who accused the Centre of promoting the politics of vendetta.

Kumaraswamy had even called the I-T officers as BJP agents and led a protest by the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in front of the IT department office here.

In his rally at Mangaluru, Modi said the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka and parties alike were inspired by "Pariwarvad" (dynasty) and believed in giving power to even the last member of the family.

Addressing a massive rally, Modi said unlike the Congress, JDS and others, BJP's inspiration came from "Rashtrawad" (nationalism).

He said the Lok Sabha polls was not about who became an MP or prime minister or minister, but about how the "New India" should be and what should be its inspiration.

"Inspiration of Congress-JD(S) and parties like them is pariwarwad (dynasty) and our inspiration is rashtrawad (nationalism).

They look for ways to give power to even the last member of their family, while we are striving to bring those people ahead who are in the last line of society."

"Their darshan is vamshoday, while ours is antyodaya (uplifting the weaker sections of society).

Because of their vamshoday there will be corruption and injustice and because our antyodaya the glory of transparency and honesty will increase", Modi said.

Continuing to target the dynasty politics of Congress on the second consecutive day of his campaign in Karnataka, Modi said, "this vamshoday will ignore their own party senior leaders, while our antyodaya will make a tea seller the Prime Minister."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday mocked Congress' "dream" of forming a government at the Centre and castigated it on national security and Jammu and Kashmir issues, asking people to punish it in such a way that the party would not be able to save its deposits in the Lok Sabha polls. Addressing a massive rally in Bengaluru, he said the Congress has promised to remove the Army from Jammu and Kashmir, saying "exactly what Pakistan says word to word in Pakistan's language." Devoting most parts of his speech to national security, Modi said the Congress had spoken about coming to power in its manifesto and added, "who can stop one from dreaming? " "But let them dream about forming the government. I can understand it because a chaiwala has robbed the opportunity of four generations of Sultanate," he said. Modi said what was worrying was that the Congress has said in its manifesto that if they form the government in Delhi, they would "remove" AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) that gives special powers to the soldiers. PM:When Congress' 'mahamilavati remote govt' was at centre, didn't blasts occur in Bengaluru?Didn't the nation was living under fear of terror attacks?Did any major blast took place in last 5 yrs of your "chowkidaar's chowkidaari".It was power of your 1 vote that made it possible pic.twitter.com/Go5tyjbXEV — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × "Which way are they going? Didn't you feel the pain and anger hearing this? The Jammu Kashmir for which thousands of soldiers were martyred, you want to make soldiers unarmed, helpless?" he asked the crowd. Modi said Congress had also said in Pakistan's language that they would remove the army from Jammu and Kashmir. "Is this okay with you, will you be able to forgive Congress?. Pandit Nehru sowed the seed of fire in Kashmir and still, the country is bearing it, now they say they will remove the army from there, what is the meaning of it?" Modi also referred to the talk about having two prime ministers -one in Hindustan and the other in J&K (by National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah). "Their talk of removing the law (AFSPA), removing the military and their Milavati friends talk about second Prime Minister. If you see all these together, does Congress want to save Kashmir? Will you allow Kashmir to go away? The land on which our soldiers have shed their blood," Modi asked. The Congress manifesto said the party proposed to reduce the presence of the Indian Army and central armed police forces (CAPFs) in the Kashmir valley. It said the AFSPA and the Disturbed Areas Act in Jammu and Kashmir would be reviewed. Referring to the air strike and surgical strike on terror camps in Pakistan and launch of ASAT (Anti Satellite) by India, Modi said the whole world was with India. "Earlier whenever such things or statements were made, Russia used to be with us and the entire world with Pakistan. Now what has happened is China alone is with Pakistan while the entire world was with us. Isn't it India's strength? he asked. "You might have felt Congress processor is slow, but their software is corrupt. Their process is fast the only when something has to be done against the country's security and demoralise our brave soldiers," Modi said. The Prime Minister also hit out at the Congress for its promise to review the sedition law, saying it wants to remove law to punish those who indulge in treason. "Will you accept such Congress and their allies?" Making such promises, can we forgive the Congress that has such a mindset?, he asked, telling voters that "in this election, punish Congress in such a way and also their allies that they should not be able to save their deposits." The prime minister also took exception to the political row created by the ruling Congress-JDS alliance over the recent Income Tax raids on several JDS men across Karnataka. Modi asked the crowd, "should the law be followed or not whether it is PM or CM or minister? Why get scared if you have not committed anything wrong?" he asked. On March 28, the Income Tax department carried out raids at multiple locations in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Shivamogga and Hassan, triggering a strong reaction from Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress leaders, who accused the Centre of promoting the politics of vendetta. Kumaraswamy had even called the I-T officers as BJP agents and led a protest by the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in front of the IT department office here. In his rally at Mangaluru, Modi said the ruling Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka and parties alike were inspired by "Pariwarvad" (dynasty) and believed in giving power to even the last member of the family. Addressing a massive rally, Modi said unlike the Congress, JDS and others, BJP's inspiration came from "Rashtrawad" (nationalism). He said the Lok Sabha polls was not about who became an MP or prime minister or minister, but about how the "New India" should be and what should be its inspiration. "Inspiration of Congress-JD(S) and parties like them is pariwarwad (dynasty) and our inspiration is rashtrawad (nationalism). They look for ways to give power to even the last member of their family, while we are striving to bring those people ahead who are in the last line of society." "Their darshan is vamshoday, while ours is antyodaya (uplifting the weaker sections of society). Because of their vamshoday there will be corruption and injustice and because our antyodaya the glory of transparency and honesty will increase", Modi said. Continuing to target the dynasty politics of Congress on the second consecutive day of his campaign in Karnataka, Modi said, "this vamshoday will ignore their own party senior leaders, while our antyodaya will make a tea seller the Prime Minister."

Let them dream about forming government: PM Modi mocks Congress

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission.

"Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines. Have recommended re-poll at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to EC," said F R Kharkongor, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya.

He also said that the EC's instructions are still awaited.

He said that female voter turn out was higher than the male voters while the final voting percentage was recorded at 71.37 per cent.

"71.37 per cent is the final voting percentage, which is second highest in the state so far in the LS polls. Female turnout was higher than the male turnout," he said.

Lok Sabha election on two seats in Meghalaya was held on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission. "Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya has recommended re-polling at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to the Election Commission. "Perhaps because of simultaneous polls (Lok Sabha and by-polls), there was a human error, a mismatch of figures and crisscrossing of machines. Have recommended re-poll at Konarchar polling station under Selsella constituency to EC," said F R Kharkongor, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya. He also said that the EC's instructions are still awaited. He said that female voter turn out was higher than the male voters while the final voting percentage was recorded at 71.37 per cent. "71.37 per cent is the final voting percentage, which is second highest in the state so far in the LS polls. Female turnout was higher than the male turnout," he said. Lok Sabha election on two seats in Meghalaya was held on April 11. The result will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha poll 2019: Repolling recommended at one booth in Meghalaya

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

"If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar.

"We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said.

The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state. "If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar. "We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said. The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP promises 5 kg rice, 1/2 kg pulse and salt for one rupee to poor in Odisha

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana.

Kumari Selja is sitting Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana.

Candidates for three other seats have been announced in Haryana. The party has fielded Shruti Chaudhary from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Captain&nbsp;Ajay Singh Yadav from Gurgaon and Lalit Nagar from Faridabad.

Shruti Choudhry is the daughter of Kiran Choudhry, the Congress Legislature Party Leader in Haryana.

Haryana has 10 parliamentary seats that will go to vote on May 12 in the sixth phase of ongoing general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

It announced candidates for nine seats in Uttar-Pradesh including Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Gonda, Basti, Jaunpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Mohanlalganj (SC), Chandauli and Salempur. The party has fielded Ajit Pratap Kushwah from Ghazipur against Union Minister Manoj Sinha.

In Madhya Pradesh, the party has fielded Dewasish Jararia from Bhind, Ashok Singh from Gwalior and Dinesh Girwal from Dhar. For the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh elections are due on fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase.

Uttar Pradesh voted for its 8 Lok Sabha seats on April 11 while voting is due in the rest of phases. UP is voting in all the seven phases for its 80 seats. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana.

Congress on Saturday came out with the list of 18 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, including Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa and Kumari Selja from Ambala in Haryana. Kumari Selja is sitting Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana. Candidates for three other seats have been announced in Haryana. The party has fielded Shruti Chaudhary from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Captain Ajay Singh Yadav from Gurgaon and Lalit Nagar from Faridabad. Shruti Choudhry is the daughter of Kiran Choudhry, the Congress Legislature Party Leader in Haryana. Haryana has 10 parliamentary seats that will go to vote on May 12 in the sixth phase of ongoing general elections. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. It announced candidates for nine seats in Uttar-Pradesh including Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Gonda, Basti, Jaunpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Mohanlalganj (SC), Chandauli and Salempur. The party has fielded Ajit Pratap Kushwah from Ghazipur against Union Minister Manoj Sinha. In Madhya Pradesh, the party has fielded Dewasish Jararia from Bhind, Ashok Singh from Gwalior and Dinesh Girwal from Dhar. For the 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh elections are due on fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase. Uttar Pradesh voted for its 8 Lok Sabha seats on April 11 while voting is due in the rest of phases. UP is voting in all the seven phases for its 80 seats. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Congress fields Kumari Selja from Ambala, Deepender Singh Hooda from Rohtak

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections.

"When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here.

"It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president.

Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party."

Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies.

Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption.

"In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said.

Talking about the Congress'&nbsp;pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao'&nbsp;have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden."

"The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.'&nbsp;The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said.

Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?"

Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people."

"Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said.

Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here. "It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president. Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party." Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies. Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption. "In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said. Talking about the Congress' pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao' have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden." "The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.' The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said. Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?" Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people." "Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said. Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Mayawati remembers Dr Ambedkar only during polls: Amit Shah

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

"I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal.

"I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed.

Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal."

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said.

Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority."

"Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said.

She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler."

The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must. "I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal. "I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed. Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal." The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said. Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority." "Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said. She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler." The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.

I can contest from anywhere but don't want division of votes: Mamata Banerjee

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP.

"In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said.

Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks.

"We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit.

"I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said.

"In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said.

Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present.

"In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar.

The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP.

"After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said.

Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings.

"In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said.

The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates.

Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.&nbsp;

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste". Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP. "In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said. Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks. "We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit. "I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said. "In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said. Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present. "In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar. The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP. "After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said. Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings. "In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said. The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates. Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.

Both Ali and Bajrang Bali ours, says BSP chief Mayawati

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras.

The prime minister, while fasting, travelled 22,000 kilometres across 13 states, holding 23 rallies during Navratras according to sources in charge of planning PM Modi's election rallies.

Sources in the PMO say, his official work never stopped and he would return to Delhi after a full day's campaign of three to four rallies to look into the matters that demand immediate attention.

Prime Minister Modi, amidst hectic political activities at home, congratulated the leadership in the Maldives and President Benjamin Netanyahu on the successful electoral result in Israel.

He also thanked President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia, for receiving the Order of St. Andrew, sources added.

However, Prime Minister Modi is not the only one with this hectic travel schedule. With an election that is coming down to the wire, frenetic campaigning and backbreaking travel itineraries have been planned for Rahul Gandhi as well, as he travels across the country addressing rallies.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras. The prime minister, while fasting, travelled 22,000 kilometres across 13 states, holding 23 rallies during Navratras according to sources in charge of planning PM Modi's election rallies. Sources in the PMO say, his official work never stopped and he would return to Delhi after a full day's campaign of three to four rallies to look into the matters that demand immediate attention. Prime Minister Modi, amidst hectic political activities at home, congratulated the leadership in the Maldives and President Benjamin Netanyahu on the successful electoral result in Israel. He also thanked President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia, for receiving the Order of St. Andrew, sources added. However, Prime Minister Modi is not the only one with this hectic travel schedule. With an election that is coming down to the wire, frenetic campaigning and backbreaking travel itineraries have been planned for Rahul Gandhi as well, as he travels across the country addressing rallies.

22,000 kilometres, 13 states and 23 rallies: PM Modi's jam-packed schedule while fasting during Navratri

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday.

"I am very confident of my win because I have done good works. My government has also done good work. So I am sure people will support us," said Malini in an exclusive interview to ANI.

She also expressed confidence that the next government at the Centre will again be formed by the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

"The whole system is changing. People want development. They want quick decisions to be taken for whatever is happening in the country. People belonging to different castes -- all want PM Modi," she said.

In the last Lok Sabha elections in 2014, Malini, who is also popular among masses as 'Basanti'&nbsp;for her stellar role in blockbuster 'Sholay,'&nbsp;had defeated the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Chaudhary by a margin of over three lakh votes.

When asked if SP-BSP-RLD alliance candidate Narendra Singh will queer the pitch for her this time by eating into Jat votes, she said, "I am sure that he will get some votes. But I will get much more votes than him because I have worked for everybody irrespective of his caste. For me, all the people are Brijwasis."

Talking about Union Minister Maneka Gandhi's controversial speech at Sultanpur, she said, "On the issue of Triple Talaq, many minority community women support us. Even if they do not, you have to help everybody. It does not matter who voted for us and who did not. This kind of feeling does not come to me."

Union Minister Gandhi on Friday, while addressing an election rally at Turab Khani village in Sultanpur from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha poll this time, told Muslims that she was all set to win and that they should vote for her as they would need her help in future.

"I am winning...But if my victory is without support from Muslims, I will not feel that good. Then when a Muslim comes to me for work, I think let it be. How does it matter," Union Minister Gandhi had said.

When asked if being an actor has helped her in politics, said, "People are able to recognise me. They at least listen to me. Other leaders have to work hard to reach out to the people."

In response to the way she was trolled on social media for reaping the wheat crop during her campaign in a village in Mathura, Hema Malini said, "I felt like doing that and I do not think that there was any problem."

"I go to the field. I work for my farmers in Mathura and help them so much. I have a right to enter the field. I had gone there just to take a picture. It was a pleasure to have the picture," she said.

Talking about the works done for her constituency in the past five years, Hema Malini said, "I have provided water, electricity facility to all areas in the constituency. I have also got a passport office open in Mathura. Earlier the people had to go to Aligarh or other towns for making passports. Roads have been widened. Connectivity has improved a lot," she said.

Election to Mathura Lok Sabha constituency is slated to be held in the second phase of seven-phased General Elections on April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday.

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday. "I am very confident of my win because I have done good works. My government has also done good work. So I am sure people will support us," said Malini in an exclusive interview to ANI. She also expressed confidence that the next government at the Centre will again be formed by the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. "The whole system is changing. People want development. They want quick decisions to be taken for whatever is happening in the country. People belonging to different castes -- all want PM Modi," she said. In the last Lok Sabha elections in 2014, Malini, who is also popular among masses as 'Basanti' for her stellar role in blockbuster 'Sholay,' had defeated the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Chaudhary by a margin of over three lakh votes. When asked if SP-BSP-RLD alliance candidate Narendra Singh will queer the pitch for her this time by eating into Jat votes, she said, "I am sure that he will get some votes. But I will get much more votes than him because I have worked for everybody irrespective of his caste. For me, all the people are Brijwasis." Talking about Union Minister Maneka Gandhi's controversial speech at Sultanpur, she said, "On the issue of Triple Talaq, many minority community women support us. Even if they do not, you have to help everybody. It does not matter who voted for us and who did not. This kind of feeling does not come to me." Union Minister Gandhi on Friday, while addressing an election rally at Turab Khani village in Sultanpur from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha poll this time, told Muslims that she was all set to win and that they should vote for her as they would need her help in future. "I am winning...But if my victory is without support from Muslims, I will not feel that good. Then when a Muslim comes to me for work, I think let it be. How does it matter," Union Minister Gandhi had said. When asked if being an actor has helped her in politics, said, "People are able to recognise me. They at least listen to me. Other leaders have to work hard to reach out to the people." In response to the way she was trolled on social media for reaping the wheat crop during her campaign in a village in Mathura, Hema Malini said, "I felt like doing that and I do not think that there was any problem." "I go to the field. I work for my farmers in Mathura and help them so much. I have a right to enter the field. I had gone there just to take a picture. It was a pleasure to have the picture," she said. Talking about the works done for her constituency in the past five years, Hema Malini said, "I have provided water, electricity facility to all areas in the constituency. I have also got a passport office open in Mathura. Earlier the people had to go to Aligarh or other towns for making passports. Roads have been widened. Connectivity has improved a lot," she said. Election to Mathura Lok Sabha constituency is slated to be held in the second phase of seven-phased General Elections on April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Good works of mine, PM Modi will help me win Lok Sabha polls again, says Hema Malini

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-sedition-case-police-filed-charge-sheet-secretly-in-hasty-manner-delhi-govt-tells-court-208087">sedition law</a> as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

Earlier on April 3, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also lambasted the Congress for promising to scrap the law.

Speaking at an election rally, Yogi had said, "It is shameful that the Congress in its manifesto has promised to scrap the provision on sedition, which is used against terrorists and those involved in terror activities if the party comes to power."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-questions-congress-manifesto-cover-for-its-dark-colour-207673">Congress</a> has promised in its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-unveils-manifesto-titled-congress-will-deliver-207408">manifesto</a> to remove the sedition law to give a "fillip to freedom of expression" in the country.

The provision for sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code says, "Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine."

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term. Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent." Earlier on April 3, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also lambasted the Congress for promising to scrap the law. Speaking at an election rally, Yogi had said, "It is shameful that the Congress in its manifesto has promised to scrap the provision on sedition, which is used against terrorists and those involved in terror activities if the party comes to power." Congress has promised in its manifesto to remove the sedition law to give a "fillip to freedom of expression" in the country. The provision for sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code says, "Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine."

BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-ysrs-jagan-slams-chandrababu-naidu-for-ignoring-needs-of-poor-and-middle-class-209107">N Chandrababu Naidu</a>&nbsp;on Saturday demanded the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-should-work-in-unbiased-manner-andhra-cm-chandrababu-naidu-on-transfer-of-state-chief-secretary-208289">Election Commission of India (ECI)</a> revert to the ballot system. The move comes&nbsp;just a couple of days after the general polls&nbsp;were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy."

The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

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Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. <a href="https://t.co/HD2JxWckPC">pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC</a>
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"We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner.&nbsp;

"I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said.

Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department.

"To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said.

Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI".&nbsp;

"We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified."

On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system. The move comes just a couple of days after the general polls were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh. Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy." The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × "We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner. "I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said. Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department. "To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said. Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI". "We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified." On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.

Just a couple of days after polls, Chandrababu Naidu raises questions over EVMs; asks Election Commission to revert to ballot system

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mai-bhi-chowkidar-campaign-pm-modi-to-address-thousands-through-video-conference-206897&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiy3KDWv8zhAhUVS48KHSZ0A60QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw12SsvHpS2ILFqTYyvfpASn">NaMo TV</a> be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.&nbsp;

The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately.

Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed.&nbsp;

"As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said.

An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired.&nbsp;

The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said.

After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue.

The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said. The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately. Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed. "As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said. An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired. The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said. After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue. The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Delhi CEO directs BJP to not air content on NaMo TV without certification

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency.

Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

"Polling parties in Arunachal Pradesh. 13583 feet altitude Luguthang - Mukto Assembly Constituency. Whatever the challenges - they do cross them all to reach the Voters afterall!" EC spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan tweeted on Saturday.

As 17th Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, officials and security personnel are trekking to remote areas of the country to set up poll booths.

In Arunachal, it took two days to reach several polling stations situated at inaccessible areas. Also, some of the polling officials were airlifted since they were deployed in isolated places.

There were 2,202 polling stations in the state for 7,98,249 voters. This year, the EC has taken several steps to add more service voters in the election process. Awareness campaigns through electronic, social, print and other media were given due attention.

According to EC officials, an estimated 66 per cent voters of the total of 7.98 lakh electorate cast their votes in the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. However, the exact figures are yet to be revealed by the EC. 
&nbsp;

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency. Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11.

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency. Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. "Polling parties in Arunachal Pradesh. 13583 feet altitude Luguthang - Mukto Assembly Constituency. Whatever the challenges - they do cross them all to reach the Voters afterall!" EC spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan tweeted on Saturday. As 17th Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, officials and security personnel are trekking to remote areas of the country to set up poll booths. In Arunachal, it took two days to reach several polling stations situated at inaccessible areas. Also, some of the polling officials were airlifted since they were deployed in isolated places. There were 2,202 polling stations in the state for 7,98,249 voters. This year, the EC has taken several steps to add more service voters in the election process. Awareness campaigns through electronic, social, print and other media were given due attention. According to EC officials, an estimated 66 per cent voters of the total of 7.98 lakh electorate cast their votes in the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. However, the exact figures are yet to be revealed by the EC.

Election Commission officials trek 13,583 feet to conduct polls in Arunachal

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday.

Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vote-for-me-you-will-need-me-once-elections-are-over-maneka-gandhi-to-muslims-209857">"with or without" the support of Muslims</a> and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power.

"You have to recognise that this victory is sure without you and even with you, and you will have to spread the word," she had said while addressing an election rally.

BR Tiwari, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, said on Friday: "The EC has taken cognisance of the matter. District Magistrate, Sultanpur, has issued a show-cause notice to her and a report has been sent to the EC."

On the other hand, Maneka Gandhi said that she is quoted out of context.

"I had called a meeting of our minority cell. If you read my complete speech, the channel is running that one sentence out of context," she said.

Maneka is contesting from Sultanpur, and her son Varun Gandhi is contesting from Pilibhit.

The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday. Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power.

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday. Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power. "You have to recognise that this victory is sure without you and even with you, and you will have to spread the word," she had said while addressing an election rally. BR Tiwari, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, said on Friday: "The EC has taken cognisance of the matter. District Magistrate, Sultanpur, has issued a show-cause notice to her and a report has been sent to the EC." On the other hand, Maneka Gandhi said that she is quoted out of context. "I had called a meeting of our minority cell. If you read my complete speech, the channel is running that one sentence out of context," she said. Maneka is contesting from Sultanpur, and her son Varun Gandhi is contesting from Pilibhit. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Election commission issues show-cause notice to Maneka Gandhi for her 'controversial' speech

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-pm-modi-tweets-16-times-tells-people-to-vote-205453"> Lok Sabha</a> seat on Friday.

"I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers.

Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi.

Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states.

Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow. &nbsp;

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26.

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers. Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi. Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states. Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Narendra Modi lookalike files nomination as independent from Lucknow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji?

''Who will do Nyay to governments of the great MGR ji which were dismissed by Congress just because one family didn't like those leaders?'' Modi asked the audience in an election rally in Theni, Tamil Nadu.

Modi also targetted the Congress party over &nbsp;Bhopal gas tragedy.&nbsp;

''Who will do Nyay to victims of Bhopal gas tragedy, among the worst environmental disasters in India. That too happened under Congress,'' Modi said.

Targeting MK Stalin for proposing Rahul Gandhi's name for PM candidate and said while DMK president projected the Gandhi scion as PM candidate, everyone in the opposition camp is in the line to be prime minister.

''Some days ago DMK Supremo projected the 'naamdar' as the PM candidate when no one was ready to accept it, not even their 'mahamilawati' friends, Why? Because they all are in the line to be PM and dream of the post,'' &nbsp;he said.

Prime minister also paid tributes to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

''We observe today, the solemn occasion, of the completion of 100 years since the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. I pay my respects to the martyrs of this incident,'' he said.

Speaking at the same rally, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said that all alliance partners in NDA have backed Modi as PM candidate while there is no unity in the opposition camp.

''Congress which is a part of DMK led alliance in Tamil Nadu has announced Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate but its allies have not come out in open supporting his candidature. In our alliance all parties have accepted PM Modi as the PM candidate, this shows our unity,'' he added.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's 39 parliamentary constituencies go to polls on April 18.&nbsp;OP&nbsp;Raveendranath, son of O&nbsp;Panneerselvam, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting from Tehni constituency in South Tamil Nadu.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji? ''Who will do Nyay to governments of the great MGR ji which were dismissed by Congress just because one family didn't like those leaders?'' Modi asked the audience in an election rally in Theni, Tamil Nadu. Modi also targetted the Congress party over Bhopal gas tragedy. ''Who will do Nyay to victims of Bhopal gas tragedy, among the worst environmental disasters in India. That too happened under Congress,'' Modi said. Targeting MK Stalin for proposing Rahul Gandhi's name for PM candidate and said while DMK president projected the Gandhi scion as PM candidate, everyone in the opposition camp is in the line to be prime minister. ''Some days ago DMK Supremo projected the 'naamdar' as the PM candidate when no one was ready to accept it, not even their 'mahamilawati' friends, Why? Because they all are in the line to be PM and dream of the post,'' he said. Prime minister also paid tributes to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre. ''We observe today, the solemn occasion, of the completion of 100 years since the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. I pay my respects to the martyrs of this incident,'' he said. Speaking at the same rally, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said that all alliance partners in NDA have backed Modi as PM candidate while there is no unity in the opposition camp. ''Congress which is a part of DMK led alliance in Tamil Nadu has announced Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate but its allies have not come out in open supporting his candidature. In our alliance all parties have accepted PM Modi as the PM candidate, this shows our unity,'' he added. Tamil Nadu's 39 parliamentary constituencies go to polls on April 18. OP Raveendranath, son of O Panneerselvam, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting from Tehni constituency in South Tamil Nadu.

Who will do NYAY to governments of great MGR? asks PM Modi in Tamil Nadu 

Tearing into the Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka over its alleged corruption and dynasty politics, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/choose-between-honest-chowkidar-and-corrupt-naamdar-pm-modi-209864">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Friday dubbed it a "20 per cent government", saying their only mission was "commission."

Intensifying his campaign blitz in Karnataka, Modi also asserted there was a wave across the country for the return of the BJP-led NDA government in the Lok Sabha polls, which was between "Rashtravad (nationalism) and Pariwarvad (dynasty)."

He lashed out at the Deve Gowda family, targeting the JDS supremo's son Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy over his reported remark that only those who cannot get two square meals a day seek jobs in the services, terming it an 'insult' to the armed forces.

He also hit out at Gowda's other son and minister H D Revanna, without naming him, for his remark that he would retire from politics if Modi was voted back to power.

The Prime Minister is addressing back to back rallies in Karnataka, where the BJP has targetted to win 22 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats, riding on what it perceives as a "Modi wave".

BJP is also hoping to cash in on mutual hostility between the ruling coalition partners at the grassroots level in several constituencies. 
The BJP won 17 seats in the 2014 polls.

The Prime Minister said the 2019 election is between Rashtrawad (nationalism) and parivarwad (dynasty). "The election was between nation first or family first," he said.

"In Karnataka Congress and JD(S) are signs of Parivarwad. Both parties that have lost touch with the people are that much connected to their families...Their only mission is commission," Modi said.

"When there was Congress government, there was Mr 10 per cent. 
Do you remember Mr 10 per cent? Now they have joined together 10 per cent is theirs and the other 10 per cent of others. Now Karnataka is going on with 20 per cent," he said.

In his campaign during the May 2018 assembly polls, Modi had attacked the then Siddaramaiah dispensation as a "10 per cent commission government.

The Prime Minister said he had seen media reports yesterday of Kumaraswamy saying that those who don't get food two times a day join the Army.

"What kind of thinking is thisKumaraswamy ji? You cannot escape by saying that your statement has been wrongly interpreted. You have said what is in your heart," Modi said.

"...Is it not an insult to our brave soldiers and armed forces...Will you seek vote on this? Those who serve the country and ready to sacrifice for it facing all odds...Such words for them, such thinking.

Doob maro doob maro (die drowning), those who insult the country's army," he said.

Modi said such people could not understand the "tapasya" of the Army as they were born with a silver spoon. Those who have remained in power for three generations could never understand the poor and their dignity, Modi said.

"This is the thinking with Congress and JD(S) and their mahamilavati (adulterated) dal....(they) don't give importance to the country's security," the Prime Minister said.

Accusing Congress and JD(S) of being against "Rashtrawadis" and those protecting the country, Modi said they don't feel ashamed in standing with those shouting slogans 'Bharat tere tukde honge' and dream about it.

The Prime Minister said such people stand with those supporting the secession of Jammu Kashmir from the country.

"They have money for Sultan's utsav, but have shortage of money to remember Hampis pride," Modi, said referring to the state government's controversial celebrations of "Tipu Jayanti" on November 10 every year in memory of Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century ruler of the erstwhile Mysore kingdom.

On Revanna's remarks that he would retire from politics if Modi came back to power, the prime minister said "Do you believe them? Will these people speak the truth any time?"&nbsp;

He reminded the crowd that in the 2014 elections, Deve Gowda had himself said that if Modi won and became the prime minister, he would take "sanyas".

"Did he take sanyas? Did father (Deve Gowda) take sanyas? Will son take sanyas? Leave sanyas, they are giving tickets to those remaining in the family."

On the response to his rallies across the country and the surging crows at the meeting here, Modi said, "This scene shows which way the wind is blowing."

"Wherever I have had the opportunity to go across the country, phir ek baar..." Modi said, to which the public roared in unison "Modi sarkar".

"This is the voice of the people across the country. There is a wave that is going on. Your love is spoiling the sleep of those sitting in Delhi," he told the surging crowds.

Modi stopped his speech four or five times as the crowds continued to swell and surged forward chanting "Modi, Modi."

Referring to the first phase of voting on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the opposition would not be able to sustain and there was a complete wave of BJP and its allies.

"There is chaos (afra tafri) in West Bengal, they are indulging in killing...But people phir ek baar."

Accusing Congress of having looted the money over which children and pregnant women had their rights, to "buy votes," he said, "they committed another corruption for this Lok Sabha polls, called the Tuglaq Raod Election scam."

Pointing out there is a Tuglaq Road in Delhi, where there are prominent leaders' residences, Modi said,..." in Madhya Pradesh, where Congress formed the government a few months ago, several crores of Rupees was sent to Delhi for election. This money was meant for malnourished children..." he said.

"Till now we were hearing about Congress' involvement in defence deal, land deal, submarine deal, helicopter deal.

Now they are looting the plates of innocent kids. Congress is hungry after remaining out of power for five years...Congress' sin cannot be cleared.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's residence as an MP is at 1, Tughlaq Road, in New Delhi while Congress president Rahul Gandhi's official residence as an MP is 12, Tughlak Lane in the national capital.

Tearing into the Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka over its alleged corruption and dynasty politics, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday dubbed it a "20 per cent government", saying their only mission was "commission.

Tearing into the Congress-JDS coalition in Karnataka over its alleged corruption and dynasty politics, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday dubbed it a "20 per cent government", saying their only mission was "commission." Intensifying his campaign blitz in Karnataka, Modi also asserted there was a wave across the country for the return of the BJP-led NDA government in the Lok Sabha polls, which was between "Rashtravad (nationalism) and Pariwarvad (dynasty)." He lashed out at the Deve Gowda family, targeting the JDS supremo's son Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy over his reported remark that only those who cannot get two square meals a day seek jobs in the services, terming it an 'insult' to the armed forces. He also hit out at Gowda's other son and minister H D Revanna, without naming him, for his remark that he would retire from politics if Modi was voted back to power. The Prime Minister is addressing back to back rallies in Karnataka, where the BJP has targetted to win 22 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats, riding on what it perceives as a "Modi wave". BJP is also hoping to cash in on mutual hostility between the ruling coalition partners at the grassroots level in several constituencies. The BJP won 17 seats in the 2014 polls. The Prime Minister said the 2019 election is between Rashtrawad (nationalism) and parivarwad (dynasty). "The election was between nation first or family first," he said. "In Karnataka Congress and JD(S) are signs of Parivarwad. Both parties that have lost touch with the people are that much connected to their families...Their only mission is commission," Modi said. "When there was Congress government, there was Mr 10 per cent. Do you remember Mr 10 per cent? Now they have joined together 10 per cent is theirs and the other 10 per cent of others. Now Karnataka is going on with 20 per cent," he said. In his campaign during the May 2018 assembly polls, Modi had attacked the then Siddaramaiah dispensation as a "10 per cent commission government. The Prime Minister said he had seen media reports yesterday of Kumaraswamy saying that those who don't get food two times a day join the Army. "What kind of thinking is thisKumaraswamy ji? You cannot escape by saying that your statement has been wrongly interpreted. You have said what is in your heart," Modi said. "...Is it not an insult to our brave soldiers and armed forces...Will you seek vote on this? Those who serve the country and ready to sacrifice for it facing all odds...Such words for them, such thinking. Doob maro doob maro (die drowning), those who insult the country's army," he said. Modi said such people could not understand the "tapasya" of the Army as they were born with a silver spoon. Those who have remained in power for three generations could never understand the poor and their dignity, Modi said. "This is the thinking with Congress and JD(S) and their mahamilavati (adulterated) dal....(they) don't give importance to the country's security," the Prime Minister said. Accusing Congress and JD(S) of being against "Rashtrawadis" and those protecting the country, Modi said they don't feel ashamed in standing with those shouting slogans 'Bharat tere tukde honge' and dream about it. The Prime Minister said such people stand with those supporting the secession of Jammu Kashmir from the country. "They have money for Sultan's utsav, but have shortage of money to remember Hampis pride," Modi, said referring to the state government's controversial celebrations of "Tipu Jayanti" on November 10 every year in memory of Tipu Sultan, the 18th-century ruler of the erstwhile Mysore kingdom. On Revanna's remarks that he would retire from politics if Modi came back to power, the prime minister said "Do you believe them? Will these people speak the truth any time?" He reminded the crowd that in the 2014 elections, Deve Gowda had himself said that if Modi won and became the prime minister, he would take "sanyas". "Did he take sanyas? Did father (Deve Gowda) take sanyas? Will son take sanyas? Leave sanyas, they are giving tickets to those remaining in the family." On the response to his rallies across the country and the surging crows at the meeting here, Modi said, "This scene shows which way the wind is blowing." "Wherever I have had the opportunity to go across the country, phir ek baar..." Modi said, to which the public roared in unison "Modi sarkar". "This is the voice of the people across the country. There is a wave that is going on. Your love is spoiling the sleep of those sitting in Delhi," he told the surging crowds. Modi stopped his speech four or five times as the crowds continued to swell and surged forward chanting "Modi, Modi." Referring to the first phase of voting on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the opposition would not be able to sustain and there was a complete wave of BJP and its allies. "There is chaos (afra tafri) in West Bengal, they are indulging in killing...But people phir ek baar." Accusing Congress of having looted the money over which children and pregnant women had their rights, to "buy votes," he said, "they committed another corruption for this Lok Sabha polls, called the Tuglaq Raod Election scam." Pointing out there is a Tuglaq Road in Delhi, where there are prominent leaders' residences, Modi said,..." in Madhya Pradesh, where Congress formed the government a few months ago, several crores of Rupees was sent to Delhi for election. This money was meant for malnourished children..." he said. "Till now we were hearing about Congress' involvement in defence deal, land deal, submarine deal, helicopter deal. Now they are looting the plates of innocent kids. Congress is hungry after remaining out of power for five years...Congress' sin cannot be cleared. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's residence as an MP is at 1, Tughlaq Road, in New Delhi while Congress president Rahul Gandhi's official residence as an MP is 12, Tughlak Lane in the national capital.

Congress-JDS coalition is a '20% commission government': PM Modi