From doubling farmers' income to Make in India in Defence: Key points of BJP manifesto

Ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720">first phase of polling on April 11th</a>, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-our-inspiration-good-governance-our-mantra-says-pm-modi-as-bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-208728">PM Narendra Modi</a> and party president Amit Shah. Rajnath Singh who was the key member of the party's manifesto committee presented the BJP's programme.

The vision document 2019&nbsp;emphasised on "zero tolerance" on terrorism and illegal migration.

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We will ensure corruption-free Bharat by effective governance and transparent decision making. 
 
To empower citizens and ensure time-bound delivery of public services, we will explore every avenue to implement the Right to Service. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJPSankalpPatr2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJPSankalpPatr2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/4W8GbVqWr0">pic.twitter.com/4W8GbVqWr0</a>
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"We have our full commitment for uniform civil code,"&nbsp;Rajnath Singh said.

"We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370."&nbsp;

"We are committed to annulling Article 35A of the Constitution of India as the provision is discriminatory against non-permanent residents and women of Jammu and Kashmir," Rajnath Singh added.

"Citizenship Amendment bill will&nbsp;be passed,"&nbsp;Rajanath Singh said while asserting that regional identity will be protected. Our "Sankalp Patra"&nbsp;is a vision document that lists expectations of 130 crore Indians, Rajnath Singh, head of BJP's manifesto committee, said.

"All alternative options will be explored for construction of Ram temple in a most conducive manner," Rajnath Singh said adding, "We will also give pension facility to small and marginal farmers after 60 years of age.

"We will give Rs 6,000 yearly income support to all farmers and pension to small and marginal farmers above 60 years of age&nbsp;under Kisan Samman Nidhi,"&nbsp;he said.

"BJP promises to spend Rs 25 lakh crore on rural development in the next five years," Rajnath Singh informed.&nbsp;

"Seventy-five&nbsp;new medical colleges and postgraduate colleges will be established if BJP is voted to power,"&nbsp;he said.

During his opening speech, Amit Shah reminded party leaders about the 2014 polls when Narendra Modi was presented as the PM candidate. He emphasised on the party's programme in the last five years on the Swachh campaign, housing and farmer policy.

"The nation has achieved new heights under PM Modi," Amit Shah said, adding, "India is the fastest growing economy in the world."

"The country feels safe under PM Modi," he added.

The presentation ceremony was attended by top leaders including external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720"> finance minister Arun Jaitley </a>among others.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls will conclude on May 19th with the results to be announced on May 23rd.

Ahead of the first phase of polling on April 11th, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi. The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah.

Ahead of the first phase of polling on April 11th, the BJP today presented its manifesto at the party headquarters in New Delhi. The "Sankalp Patra" was unveiled in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah. Rajnath Singh who was the key member of the party's manifesto committee presented the BJP's programme. The vision document 2019 emphasised on "zero tolerance" on terrorism and illegal migration. We will ensure corruption-free Bharat by effective governance and transparent decision making. To empower citizens and ensure time-bound delivery of public services, we will explore every avenue to implement the Right to Service. #BJPSankalpPatr2019 pic.twitter.com/4W8GbVqWr0 — BJP (@BJP4India) April 8, 2019 × "We have our full commitment for uniform civil code," Rajnath Singh said. "We reiterate our position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370." "We are committed to annulling Article 35A of the Constitution of India as the provision is discriminatory against non-permanent residents and women of Jammu and Kashmir," Rajnath Singh added. "Citizenship Amendment bill will be passed," Rajanath Singh said while asserting that regional identity will be protected. Our "Sankalp Patra" is a vision document that lists expectations of 130 crore Indians, Rajnath Singh, head of BJP's manifesto committee, said. "All alternative options will be explored for construction of Ram temple in a most conducive manner," Rajnath Singh said adding, "We will also give pension facility to small and marginal farmers after 60 years of age. "We will give Rs 6,000 yearly income support to all farmers and pension to small and marginal farmers above 60 years of age under Kisan Samman Nidhi," he said. "BJP promises to spend Rs 25 lakh crore on rural development in the next five years," Rajnath Singh informed. "Seventy-five new medical colleges and postgraduate colleges will be established if BJP is voted to power," he said. During his opening speech, Amit Shah reminded party leaders about the 2014 polls when Narendra Modi was presented as the PM candidate. He emphasised on the party's programme in the last five years on the Swachh campaign, housing and farmer policy. "The nation has achieved new heights under PM Modi," Amit Shah said, adding, "India is the fastest growing economy in the world." "The country feels safe under PM Modi," he added. The presentation ceremony was attended by top leaders including external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, finance minister Arun Jaitley among others. The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls will conclude on May 19th with the results to be announced on May 23rd.

BJP unveils election manifesto; 'zero tolerance' on terrorism, full commitment towards uniform civil code

After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-zero-tolerance-on-terrorism-full-commitment-towards-uniform-civil-code-208715">BJP presented its election manifesto</a> today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development".

"We have set <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-manifesto-not-prepared-with-tukde-tukde-mindset-but-with-strong-nationalist-vision-says-jaitley-while-unveiling-of-party-manifesto-208720">75 well-defined resolutions</a> in our manifesto that we can fulfil in a time-bound manner, he said, adding, "we are moving forward with 'one mission, one rection'."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> live from Delhi: BJP releases their manifesto for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/x4t3F7srhI">https://t.co/x4t3F7srhI</a>
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"Nationalism is our inspiration, the Antoydaya mission is our aim and good governance is our mantra," he said.&nbsp;"BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, on completion of 100 years of Independence," PM Modi added.

"This is the reason why we have made multi-layered development our main thrust in the manifesto."

PM Modi said in order to develop India, development had to be made into a "mass movement". "A successful result of that is "swacchta" (cleanliness) today "swachhta"&nbsp;is a mass movement."

BJP's "Sankalp Patra"&nbsp;addresses expectations and aspirations of our&nbsp;country and&nbsp;contains 'Jan ki Mann ki Baat', PM Modi said.

"We will form separate Jal Shakti Ministry," PM Modi revealed as the BJP released its manifesto.&nbsp;

"We first addressed needs of people, now we will fulfil their aspirations," PM Modi added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the BJP presented its election manifesto today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development".

After the BJP presented its election manifesto today, PM Modi speaking on the occasion on Monday said the party has based its vision document on "multi-layered development". "We have set 75 well-defined resolutions in our manifesto that we can fulfil in a time-bound manner, he said, adding, "we are moving forward with 'one mission, one rection'." #WATCH live from Delhi: BJP releases their manifesto for #LokSabhaElections2019 https://t.co/x4t3F7srhI — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2019 × "Nationalism is our inspiration, the Antoydaya mission is our aim and good governance is our mantra," he said. "BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, on completion of 100 years of Independence," PM Modi added. "This is the reason why we have made multi-layered development our main thrust in the manifesto." PM Modi said in order to develop India, development had to be made into a "mass movement". "A successful result of that is "swacchta" (cleanliness) today "swachhta" is a mass movement." BJP's "Sankalp Patra" addresses expectations and aspirations of our country and contains 'Jan ki Mann ki Baat', PM Modi said. "We will form separate Jal Shakti Ministry," PM Modi revealed as the BJP released its manifesto. "We first addressed needs of people, now we will fulfil their aspirations," PM Modi added.

Nationalism our inspiration, good governance our mantra, says PM Modi as BJP unveils election manifesto

The Madras High Court on Monday quashed the proceedings of land acquisition for the 8-lane Chennai-Salem Expressway project that was announced in early 2018 by the AIADMK. The court said that the project requires a mega realignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on environment.

A special bench of Justice T S Sivagnanam and Justice Bhavani Subbarayan passed the order allowing a batch of petitions by 35 land owners and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss.

With an estimated cost of Rs 10,000 crore, this infrastructure project had been a major political issue in the southern state that goes to polls on April 18.

The project had been facing stiff opposition from farmers and environmentalists.

The proposed 8-lane 277-km greenfield expressway was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the Detailed Project Report (DPR), it was meant to pass via five districts, namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem.

However, the project faced opposition from various groups on the grounds that the 7500 acres of land, which will be acquired for the project, includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. The protesters were also of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem.

While the AIADMK government led by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisami was keen on having this project implemented, the opposition party DMK had stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation. Interestingly, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss was among those who had earlier filed a case against the project. But despite their differences, the PMK in February joined hands with the AIAMDK-BJP alliance in Tamil Nadu and will be contesting from seven seats.

Speaking to reporters after the verdict this morning, Advocate Kamaraj who represented the farmers said, "This verdict is for the farmers and the public and it would cause a setback for the state government."

Reacting to the verdict, while campaigning in his constituency Dharmapuri, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss said, "Though we are in an alliance with the AIADMK, we are against this project and support the cause of the farmers."

The court had on December 14, 2018, reserved orders on the batch of petitions, challenging land acquisition proceedings.

The Madras High Court on Monday quashed the proceedings of land acquisition for the 8-lane Chennai-Salem Expressway project that was announced in early 2018 by the AIADMK.

The Madras High Court on Monday quashed the proceedings of land acquisition for the 8-lane Chennai-Salem Expressway project that was announced in early 2018 by the AIADMK. The court said that the project requires a mega realignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on environment. A special bench of Justice T S Sivagnanam and Justice Bhavani Subbarayan passed the order allowing a batch of petitions by 35 land owners and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss. With an estimated cost of Rs 10,000 crore, this infrastructure project had been a major political issue in the southern state that goes to polls on April 18. The project had been facing stiff opposition from farmers and environmentalists. The proposed 8-lane 277-km greenfield expressway was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the Detailed Project Report (DPR), it was meant to pass via five districts, namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem. However, the project faced opposition from various groups on the grounds that the 7500 acres of land, which will be acquired for the project, includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. The protesters were also of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem. While the AIADMK government led by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisami was keen on having this project implemented, the opposition party DMK had stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation. Interestingly, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss was among those who had earlier filed a case against the project. But despite their differences, the PMK in February joined hands with the AIAMDK-BJP alliance in Tamil Nadu and will be contesting from seven seats. Speaking to reporters after the verdict this morning, Advocate Kamaraj who represented the farmers said, "This verdict is for the farmers and the public and it would cause a setback for the state government." Reacting to the verdict, while campaigning in his constituency Dharmapuri, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss said, "Though we are in an alliance with the AIADMK, we are against this project and support the cause of the farmers." The court had on December 14, 2018, reserved orders on the batch of petitions, challenging land acquisition proceedings.

Days before polls, Madras High Court quashes land acquisition proceedings for Chennai-Salem Expressway

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-zero-tolerance-on-terrorism-full-commitment-towards-uniform-civil-code-208715">BJP released its party manifesto</a>, finance minister Arun Jaitley said the party will not allow the "Balkanisation of India".

"BJP manifesto is not prepared with "tukde tukde" mindset but with strong nationalist vision," Jaitley said, adding, "BJP manifesto is rooted in Indian reality."

"Our new policy, new doctrine of striking terror in its origin has received global recognition," he said.

"We are the first government in history which has consolidated India's middle class and which brought out the fastest depletion of poverty," he said while addressing reporters.

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"A new security doctrine makes India into one of the most powerful nations in the world where our deterrent is the best defence," he said.

"Our fiscal prudence since 1947 has been best ever for any government,"&nbsp;Jaitley emphasised, adding, "BJP manifesto is to deplete poverty over next five years to single digit and then gradually eliminate it."

"When India is at the cusp of history making most of all its lost opportunities, does it require a fragile government or a decisive government," he asked.

"Previous governments only gave slogans. PM Modi government gave resources to the&nbsp;poor,"&nbsp;Jaitley said as the party launched its manifesto.

As the BJP released its party manifesto, finance minister Arun Jaitley said the party will not allow the "Balkanisation of India". "BJP manifesto is not prepared with "tukde tukde" mindset but with strong nationalist vision," Jaitley said, adding, "BJP manifesto is rooted in Indian reality.

As the BJP released its party manifesto, finance minister Arun Jaitley said the party will not allow the "Balkanisation of India". "BJP manifesto is not prepared with "tukde tukde" mindset but with strong nationalist vision," Jaitley said, adding, "BJP manifesto is rooted in Indian reality." "Our new policy, new doctrine of striking terror in its origin has received global recognition," he said. "We are the first government in history which has consolidated India's middle class and which brought out the fastest depletion of poverty," he said while addressing reporters. We will increase the coverage of Ayushman Bharat to include all Anganwadi workers and ASHA workers to ensure improved health and social support system. BJP is committed to 33% reservation in parliament & state assemblies through a constitutional amendment. #BJPSankalpPatr2019 pic.twitter.com/4COiFBndro — BJP (@BJP4India) April 8, 2019 × "A new security doctrine makes India into one of the most powerful nations in the world where our deterrent is the best defence," he said. "Our fiscal prudence since 1947 has been best ever for any government," Jaitley emphasised, adding, "BJP manifesto is to deplete poverty over next five years to single digit and then gradually eliminate it." "When India is at the cusp of history making most of all its lost opportunities, does it require a fragile government or a decisive government," he asked. "Previous governments only gave slogans. PM Modi government gave resources to the poor," Jaitley said as the party launched its manifesto.

BJP manifesto not prepared with 'tukde tukde' mindset but with strong nationalist vision, says Jaitley while unveiling party manifesto

In a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday "speed-breaker Didi" has applied brakes on several central schemes, denying people of the benefits available in other parts of the country.

Addressing a rally at Rash Mela ground here, he alleged that Banerjee has let loose goons in the state, dashing the hopes of people.

"Didi has maligned Bengal with Saradha Scam, Rose Valley scam and Narada scam. I want to promise you all that this Chowkidar (Modi) will seek answers for each and every paisa looted," he said.

Noting that a venue with limited space was allotted for today's rally, Modi said, "Didi tried her best to stop people from attending the rally in large numbers.

How does she expect to win the elections with such childish antics."

"The way Mamata expressed her anger against Election Commission only shows how perplexed she is. Didi is fast losing her political ground in Bengal," the PM said.

Banerjee had expressed her displeasure when the Election Commission announced seven-phase Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal.

Modi also charged Banerjee with protecting illegal immigrants to secure her vote bank.

"Didi has betrayed the Centre by giving protection to the intruders. This chowkidar has brought NRC and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill to drive out infiltrators. But Didi with her 'Mahamilawati' (opposition alliance) colleagues are trying to stop the government from pursuing them," he said.

Sharing his plans for the development of the country, Modi said, phone calls will soon become free in the country and the charges for the Internet will be the least in the world.

"Every poor has a bank account and a debit card. Women have easy access to gas connections. What seemed impossible a few years ago has been made possible by the Modi government," he added.

Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19.

In a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday "speed-breaker Didi" has applied brakes on several central schemes, denying people of the benefits available in other parts of the country.

In a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday "speed-breaker Didi" has applied brakes on several central schemes, denying people of the benefits available in other parts of the country. Addressing a rally at Rash Mela ground here, he alleged that Banerjee has let loose goons in the state, dashing the hopes of people. "Didi has maligned Bengal with Saradha Scam, Rose Valley scam and Narada scam. I want to promise you all that this Chowkidar (Modi) will seek answers for each and every paisa looted," he said. Noting that a venue with limited space was allotted for today's rally, Modi said, "Didi tried her best to stop people from attending the rally in large numbers. How does she expect to win the elections with such childish antics." "The way Mamata expressed her anger against Election Commission only shows how perplexed she is. Didi is fast losing her political ground in Bengal," the PM said. Banerjee had expressed her displeasure when the Election Commission announced seven-phase Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal. Modi also charged Banerjee with protecting illegal immigrants to secure her vote bank. "Didi has betrayed the Centre by giving protection to the intruders. This chowkidar has brought NRC and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill to drive out infiltrators. But Didi with her 'Mahamilawati' (opposition alliance) colleagues are trying to stop the government from pursuing them," he said. Sharing his plans for the development of the country, Modi said, phone calls will soon become free in the country and the charges for the Internet will be the least in the world. "Every poor has a bank account and a debit card. Women have easy access to gas connections. What seemed impossible a few years ago has been made possible by the Modi government," he added. Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19.

Didi maligned Bengal with scams, denied people of central Scheme benefits: PM Modi

Senior BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday urged people to assess the Congress' five years in the opposition, claiming it was creating chaos to stop the government from doing good work.

She said the amount of 72,000 per year, promised by the Congress to the poor under its NYAY scheme, was half of what the Narendra Modi government is giving away currently to poor citizens through direct subsidy transfers.

While addressing professionals and intellectuals of the city here as part of BJP's Lok Sabha campaign, she said, though PM Modi was ready to reply to the Congress' questions in Parliament, leaders in the opposition created chaos and did not allow him to do so.

"Before 2014, the BJP was in opposition and it campaigned to uproot a corrupt government. Now, we are in power while Congress is in opposition. You should compare our performance as opposition and that of the Congress," she said.

"As an opposition party, we used to raise questions in the Parliament. But, we never made any baseless allegations. Now, though Modi ji was ready to give answers, he was not allowed by the opposition leaders who created chaos in the Parliament. This is today's opposition. They are trying to stop us from doing good work," she claimed.

"This is what the opposition has become. You have to think about this too," Sitharaman told the gathering.

On the minimum income guarantee scheme promised by the Congress, Sitharaman said "The Rs 72,000, which Congress is promising to give, is less than what Modiji is giving right now to the needy citizens through direct subsidy transfers."

She said because of the efforts of Modi, no country had criticised India for its February 26 Balakot air strike.

"Pakistan is already in the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force for not taking sufficient action against terror outfits. Now, it may be added in the black list of FATF," she said.

"Even Pakistan has admitted that they are on the verge of being blacklisted because of India's campaign. Why did such things not happen earlier? Because Modi hai to mumkin hai (With Modi, it is possible)," said the BJP leader.

When queried on National Conference president Farooq Abdullah's allegation that the Modi government was lying about the shooting down of a Pakistani F-16 in the aerial engagement on February 27, she said the Indian Air Force had already presented proof to establish it.

"There are many who are spreading such misinformation. Those who are questioning our army are part of the bhajan mandli of the Congress. What more I can say when some Indians are saying such things. It is painful" she said.

Responding to a question about Rahul Gandhi's allegations of irregularities in the Rafale deal and the involvement of Anil Ambani, Sitharaman dared the Congress chief to provide proof.

"Just show a simple proof to validate your allegation that Rs 30,000 crore was given to him (Ambani). If you can't show that proof, you do not have any right to say that the PM is a thief. I challenge you to show proof. If you cannot, you must stop levelling false and baseless allegations," she said.

The Congress allegations have been refuted routinely by the Centre as well as Ambani.

She was here to campaign for BJP national president Amit Shah who is contesting from Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat.

Senior BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday urged people to assess the Congress' five years in the opposition, claiming it was creating chaos to stop the government from doing good work.

Senior BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday urged people to assess the Congress' five years in the opposition, claiming it was creating chaos to stop the government from doing good work. She said the amount of 72,000 per year, promised by the Congress to the poor under its NYAY scheme, was half of what the Narendra Modi government is giving away currently to poor citizens through direct subsidy transfers. While addressing professionals and intellectuals of the city here as part of BJP's Lok Sabha campaign, she said, though PM Modi was ready to reply to the Congress' questions in Parliament, leaders in the opposition created chaos and did not allow him to do so. "Before 2014, the BJP was in opposition and it campaigned to uproot a corrupt government. Now, we are in power while Congress is in opposition. You should compare our performance as opposition and that of the Congress," she said. "As an opposition party, we used to raise questions in the Parliament. But, we never made any baseless allegations. Now, though Modi ji was ready to give answers, he was not allowed by the opposition leaders who created chaos in the Parliament. This is today's opposition. They are trying to stop us from doing good work," she claimed. "This is what the opposition has become. You have to think about this too," Sitharaman told the gathering. On the minimum income guarantee scheme promised by the Congress, Sitharaman said "The Rs 72,000, which Congress is promising to give, is less than what Modiji is giving right now to the needy citizens through direct subsidy transfers." She said because of the efforts of Modi, no country had criticised India for its February 26 Balakot air strike. "Pakistan is already in the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force for not taking sufficient action against terror outfits. Now, it may be added in the black list of FATF," she said. "Even Pakistan has admitted that they are on the verge of being blacklisted because of India's campaign. Why did such things not happen earlier? Because Modi hai to mumkin hai (With Modi, it is possible)," said the BJP leader. When queried on National Conference president Farooq Abdullah's allegation that the Modi government was lying about the shooting down of a Pakistani F-16 in the aerial engagement on February 27, she said the Indian Air Force had already presented proof to establish it. "There are many who are spreading such misinformation. Those who are questioning our army are part of the bhajan mandli of the Congress. What more I can say when some Indians are saying such things. It is painful" she said. Responding to a question about Rahul Gandhi's allegations of irregularities in the Rafale deal and the involvement of Anil Ambani, Sitharaman dared the Congress chief to provide proof. "Just show a simple proof to validate your allegation that Rs 30,000 crore was given to him (Ambani). If you can't show that proof, you do not have any right to say that the PM is a thief. I challenge you to show proof. If you cannot, you must stop levelling false and baseless allegations," she said. The Congress allegations have been refuted routinely by the Centre as well as Ambani. She was here to campaign for BJP national president Amit Shah who is contesting from Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat.

Defence minister Sitharaman slams Congress' role as opposition party

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank.

The National Conference, its arch-rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and new entrant People's Conference led by Sajad Gani Lone have been talking about protection of Articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution in their rallies in the run-up to the polling which is scheduled to begin on April 11, latching on to BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks that Article 35A will be repealed by 2020.

"Protecting the special status of Jammu and Kashmir as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country, is one of the main cornerstones of our campaign for these elections," National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah told PTI.

The former chief minister dismissed suggestions that six Lok Sabha members from Jammu and Kashmir were numerically insignificant in case the special provision related to the state was to be scrapped through legislation in Parliament.

"It is not a numerical argument, it is an argument based on facts. Yes, we only have six seats but Jammu and Kashmir bats far above its rankings otherwise. The smallest thing in Jammu and Kashmir becomes international news, very big things in other states are often ignored. So, I think six members in Parliament can do more than 60 from another state," he said.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti is using the special status of the state and the buzz surrounding it to stage a comeback after her party's coalition government with the BJP fell last year.

She has adopted a more hardline posture than any of the regional parties on the issues related to Article 35A and Article 370.

"The relationship between our state and the country is based on our special constitutional position that legitimises it. If we remove, what legalises this relationship, it will turn into an occupation and colonisation," she said.

Mehbooba, while reacting to Shah's remarks on Article 35A, said the relation of Jammu and Kashmir with India will end if the terms and conditions of state's accession to the Union were changed.&nbsp;

"2020 will also be a deadline from Jammu and Kashmir to the nation. If you remove those terms and conditions on which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India, our relation with the country will also finish," the former chief minister, who is contesting from Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, said.

Lone, who was a minister in the PDP-led coalition government in the state from the BJP quota, has also vowed to defend the state's special status.

"Article 35A is a matter of faith and dignity for the people of the J&amp;K through which the Constitution of India guarantees to safeguard the special identity and unique status of Jammu &amp; Kashmir. In matters of pride and identity, profit and loss are immaterial. Can a country allow a foreign country to undermine its sovereignty and national pride just for the sake of some monetary gains," Lone asked.

He said Jammu and Kashmir was not the only state with special residency laws.

"All northeastern states and even Himachal Pradesh have laws prohibiting non-locals from purchasing land. Why are politicians in New Delhi only against J&amp;K's special status? What are their views on Art 371-A to 371-K which guarantee provisions like 370 as applicable to the northeastern states," he said.

Although Congress leaders in their campaign have focussed more on issues dominating the discourse at the national level, the local leaders have made it a point to raise the issue of protecting the special status in electioneering in the valley.

"No power in the world can revoke Article 370 and Article 35-A," state Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is contesting from the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, claimed.&nbsp;

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank.

National security and corruption have emerged as some of the main issues in the Lok Sabha elections but regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir have kept protection of the state's special status under the Constitution of India as their key poll plank. The National Conference, its arch-rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and new entrant People's Conference led by Sajad Gani Lone have been talking about protection of Articles 35A and 370 of the Constitution in their rallies in the run-up to the polling which is scheduled to begin on April 11, latching on to BJP chief Amit Shah's remarks that Article 35A will be repealed by 2020. "Protecting the special status of Jammu and Kashmir as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country, is one of the main cornerstones of our campaign for these elections," National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah told PTI. The former chief minister dismissed suggestions that six Lok Sabha members from Jammu and Kashmir were numerically insignificant in case the special provision related to the state was to be scrapped through legislation in Parliament. "It is not a numerical argument, it is an argument based on facts. Yes, we only have six seats but Jammu and Kashmir bats far above its rankings otherwise. The smallest thing in Jammu and Kashmir becomes international news, very big things in other states are often ignored. So, I think six members in Parliament can do more than 60 from another state," he said. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti is using the special status of the state and the buzz surrounding it to stage a comeback after her party's coalition government with the BJP fell last year. She has adopted a more hardline posture than any of the regional parties on the issues related to Article 35A and Article 370. "The relationship between our state and the country is based on our special constitutional position that legitimises it. If we remove, what legalises this relationship, it will turn into an occupation and colonisation," she said. Mehbooba, while reacting to Shah's remarks on Article 35A, said the relation of Jammu and Kashmir with India will end if the terms and conditions of state's accession to the Union were changed. "2020 will also be a deadline from Jammu and Kashmir to the nation. If you remove those terms and conditions on which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India, our relation with the country will also finish," the former chief minister, who is contesting from Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, said. Lone, who was a minister in the PDP-led coalition government in the state from the BJP quota, has also vowed to defend the state's special status. "Article 35A is a matter of faith and dignity for the people of the J&K through which the Constitution of India guarantees to safeguard the special identity and unique status of Jammu & Kashmir. In matters of pride and identity, profit and loss are immaterial. Can a country allow a foreign country to undermine its sovereignty and national pride just for the sake of some monetary gains," Lone asked. He said Jammu and Kashmir was not the only state with special residency laws. "All northeastern states and even Himachal Pradesh have laws prohibiting non-locals from purchasing land. Why are politicians in New Delhi only against J&K's special status? What are their views on Art 371-A to 371-K which guarantee provisions like 370 as applicable to the northeastern states," he said. Although Congress leaders in their campaign have focussed more on issues dominating the discourse at the national level, the local leaders have made it a point to raise the issue of protecting the special status in electioneering in the valley. "No power in the world can revoke Article 370 and Article 35-A," state Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who is contesting from the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat, claimed.

Lok Sabha elections: J&K parties make special status key poll issue

India Election Watch: Latest election news

Senior Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said on Sunday no decision had been taken yet about general secretary<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-vadras-political-debut-is-just-to-bail-out-her-failed-elder-brother-piyush-goyal-205250"> Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> contesting the election against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi.

Rajeev Shukla claimed that under the leadership of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/priyanka-gandhi-vadras-ganga-yatra-and-triumph-of-soft-hindutva-204136">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra,</a> who is the party's in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Congress would do well in the Lok Sabha election and sweep the 2022 assembly election.

On the recent speculation about Vadra contesting from Varanasi, Shukla told PTI: "In response to a question, she had made a comment which is unnecessarily being talked about now. No definite decision has been taken on her contesting the election.''

During campaigning at Rae Bareli a fortnight ago, Vadra had dropped a hint that she is not averse to taking on Modi in his own Lok Sabha constituency.

"Shouldn't I fight from Varanasi?" Vadra had quipped when a party worker asked her to contest from Rae Bareli, the constituency of her mother and UPA chairperson, Sonia Gandhi.

Shukla said Vadra was getting a very good response from the public wherever she is going for campaigning. "In the past 20 years, the Congress has become very weak in Uttar Pradesh. The party has to be strengthened under her leadership for 2022."

The former Union minister said the common people would benefit from all the promises made in the Congress manifesto. "Providing Rs 72,000 per annum under the Nyay (minimum income) scheme and increasing the agricultural budget will be the priority," he said.

The Congress leader exuded confidence that Nyay could be implemented. "I have been a planning minister, this scheme can be implemented. People who are spreading rumours did the same when our government launched the MGNREGA (rural job guarantee scheme). There will be no burden on the middle class or working class."

Shukla also hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party on the issue of nationalism. "Nationalism was displayed during the Indira Gandhi government when Pakistan was taught a lesson in 1971. Atal Bihari Vajpayee had also given a fitting reply to Pakistan. Modi has just created a ruckus through false propaganda."

The Congress leader said the party's focus was employment, farmers and women's safety.

"The BJP is only talking about Hindu-Muslim and Pakistan. We are more concerned about the common man," Shukla said. "The biggest problem India is facing is that of unemployment. Our agenda is to give jobs to the youths and look after the issues of farmers and women's safety in the country."

The former Union minister claimed that the "Modi brand" would not work this time, adding that the Opposition was fighting strongly in different states and would collectively get a majority.

Asked if the Opposition parties would accept the leadership of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi after the election, Shukla said: "The Congress president himself has mentioned that there is no dispute over the leadership and later he will accept what everyone decides.''

Senior Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said on Sunday no decision had been taken yet about general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the election against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi.

Senior Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said on Sunday no decision had been taken yet about general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the election against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi. Rajeev Shukla claimed that under the leadership of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who is the party's in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Congress would do well in the Lok Sabha election and sweep the 2022 assembly election. On the recent speculation about Vadra contesting from Varanasi, Shukla told PTI: "In response to a question, she had made a comment which is unnecessarily being talked about now. No definite decision has been taken on her contesting the election.'' During campaigning at Rae Bareli a fortnight ago, Vadra had dropped a hint that she is not averse to taking on Modi in his own Lok Sabha constituency. "Shouldn't I fight from Varanasi?" Vadra had quipped when a party worker asked her to contest from Rae Bareli, the constituency of her mother and UPA chairperson, Sonia Gandhi. Shukla said Vadra was getting a very good response from the public wherever she is going for campaigning. "In the past 20 years, the Congress has become very weak in Uttar Pradesh. The party has to be strengthened under her leadership for 2022." The former Union minister said the common people would benefit from all the promises made in the Congress manifesto. "Providing Rs 72,000 per annum under the Nyay (minimum income) scheme and increasing the agricultural budget will be the priority," he said. The Congress leader exuded confidence that Nyay could be implemented. "I have been a planning minister, this scheme can be implemented. People who are spreading rumours did the same when our government launched the MGNREGA (rural job guarantee scheme). There will be no burden on the middle class or working class." Shukla also hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party on the issue of nationalism. "Nationalism was displayed during the Indira Gandhi government when Pakistan was taught a lesson in 1971. Atal Bihari Vajpayee had also given a fitting reply to Pakistan. Modi has just created a ruckus through false propaganda." The Congress leader said the party's focus was employment, farmers and women's safety. "The BJP is only talking about Hindu-Muslim and Pakistan. We are more concerned about the common man," Shukla said. "The biggest problem India is facing is that of unemployment. Our agenda is to give jobs to the youths and look after the issues of farmers and women's safety in the country." The former Union minister claimed that the "Modi brand" would not work this time, adding that the Opposition was fighting strongly in different states and would collectively get a majority. Asked if the Opposition parties would accept the leadership of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi after the election, Shukla said: "The Congress president himself has mentioned that there is no dispute over the leadership and later he will accept what everyone decides.''

No decision yet on Priyanka Gandhi contesting from Varanasi: Rajeev Shukla

With elections drawing closer, campaigning on social media platform Facebook is also picking up the pace with political parties and their supporters spending well over Rs 10 crore on advertisements in February-March this year.

According to Facebook's Ad Library Report, there were 51,810 political ads with total spending of more than Rs 10.32 crore between February and March 30 this year, with a major chunk coming in from BJP and its supporters.

Till the previous week (ending March 23), the number of such ads was 41,974, while the total spending was Rs 8.58 crore.

Facebook said these ads were related to politics and issues of national importance.&nbsp;

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its supporters continued to corner a bulk of ad spends with 'Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat' page continuing to be the top spender with well over 3,700 ads and pumping in more than Rs 2.23 crore (under two categories).&nbsp;

The BJP had about 1,100 ads and spent over Rs 36.2 lakh, while other pages like 'My First Vote for Modi' and 'Nation with NaMo' also had large spending.&nbsp;

Compared to this, the Indian National Congress page had 410 ads and its ad spend was Rs 5.91 lakh in the February to March 30 period, as per the data.

Biju Janata Dal had the spending of Rs 8.56 lakh, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Rs 1.58 lakh and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Rs 58,355 in the said timeframe.

In February, Facebook had said political advertisements on its platform will carry a 'disclaimer' offering details about those responsible for running the ad as the social media giant looks to bring transparency into political ads ahead of elections in India. This was done to give people more information about who is responsible for the ads they see.&nbsp;

With ensuing general elections, the Indian government had warned social media platforms of strong action if any attempt was made to influence the country's electoral process through undesirable means.&nbsp;

Over the past few months, social media players like Facebook, Twitter and Google have promised to infuse more transparency into political advertisements on their platform and have since announced a slew of measures as part of election integrity efforts.&nbsp;

Facebook, which has over 200 million users in India, has stated that it is committed to creating a new standard of transparency and authenticity for political advertising on its platform and Instagram.

With elections drawing closer, campaigning on social media platform Facebook is also picking up the pace with political parties and their supporters spending well over Rs 10 crore on advertisements in February-March this year.

With elections drawing closer, campaigning on social media platform Facebook is also picking up the pace with political parties and their supporters spending well over Rs 10 crore on advertisements in February-March this year. According to Facebook's Ad Library Report, there were 51,810 political ads with total spending of more than Rs 10.32 crore between February and March 30 this year, with a major chunk coming in from BJP and its supporters. Till the previous week (ending March 23), the number of such ads was 41,974, while the total spending was Rs 8.58 crore. Facebook said these ads were related to politics and issues of national importance. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its supporters continued to corner a bulk of ad spends with 'Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat' page continuing to be the top spender with well over 3,700 ads and pumping in more than Rs 2.23 crore (under two categories). The BJP had about 1,100 ads and spent over Rs 36.2 lakh, while other pages like 'My First Vote for Modi' and 'Nation with NaMo' also had large spending. Compared to this, the Indian National Congress page had 410 ads and its ad spend was Rs 5.91 lakh in the February to March 30 period, as per the data. Biju Janata Dal had the spending of Rs 8.56 lakh, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Rs 1.58 lakh and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Rs 58,355 in the said timeframe. In February, Facebook had said political advertisements on its platform will carry a 'disclaimer' offering details about those responsible for running the ad as the social media giant looks to bring transparency into political ads ahead of elections in India. This was done to give people more information about who is responsible for the ads they see. With ensuing general elections, the Indian government had warned social media platforms of strong action if any attempt was made to influence the country's electoral process through undesirable means. Over the past few months, social media players like Facebook, Twitter and Google have promised to infuse more transparency into political advertisements on their platform and have since announced a slew of measures as part of election integrity efforts. Facebook, which has over 200 million users in India, has stated that it is committed to creating a new standard of transparency and authenticity for political advertising on its platform and Instagram.

With elections drawing closer, political ad spend on Facebook crosses Rs 10 crore

The Election Commission has rejected allegations of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that it ordered the transfer of four police officers at the behest of the ruling BJP at the Centre, saying the decision was based on “cumulative feedback” from one of its top officials and the special police observer.&nbsp;

The Commission also told Banerjee that as per election law, it is “fully within its rights” to transfer and appoint officers during a model code. It said it won’t respond to the averment to prove its image.

Banerjee had on Saturday has written to the EC alleging that the poll panel was working at the behest of the BJP. Responding to Banerjee’s letter, the poll panel said Saturday that “It is the ECI and the governments of states/UTs who are jointly responsible to electors of the largest democracy and are bound to act strictly in the letter and spirit of the respective roles set forth by the founding fathers of the Constitution.”

The letter, written by one of the deputy election commissioners, and addressed to Banerjee, referred to Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act to drive home the point that EC can transfer and post them during the poll code period. It said the Kerala High court has also approved of the provision in one of its judgements.

“It is unfortunate that an exercise carried out by ECI only for the duration of the Model Code of Conduct is being labelled as arbitrary, motivated at the behest of ruling party at the Centre. It would not be correct and dignified to respond to such averments to prove/burnish its credentials,” the letter read.

The Commission pointed out that the transfer of four police officials was “based on the cumulative feedback from the DEC (deputy election commissioner) who oversees electoral process in West Bengal and Special Police Observer”. It said even the officers who have been posted in their place are of similar seniority and being from West Bengal cadre are expected to know about field situation in the state.

“It is understood that the Government of West Bengal has already operationalised the decision of ECI in respect of transfers. This action of the Government of West Bengal amply demonstrates the willingness of the state administration to conduct free, fair, credible and ethical elections in West Bengal and ECI is appreciative of this irrespective of the factually incorrect innuendoes …,” the letter read.

It said, after several rounds of review, including the one in mid-March, EC appointed a Special Police Observer for West Bengal. Similarly, such observers were appointed for Jharkhand, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Telangana. “Thus, it is not as if any particular state was being singled out. Special Expenditure Observers have also been appointed for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra,” it said.

The Election Commission has rejected allegations of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that it ordered the transfer of four police officers at the behest of the ruling BJP at the Centre, saying the decision was based on “cumulative feedback” from one of its top officials and the special police observer.

The Election Commission has rejected allegations of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that it ordered the transfer of four police officers at the behest of the ruling BJP at the Centre, saying the decision was based on “cumulative feedback” from one of its top officials and the special police observer. The Commission also told Banerjee that as per election law, it is “fully within its rights” to transfer and appoint officers during a model code. It said it won’t respond to the averment to prove its image. Banerjee had on Saturday has written to the EC alleging that the poll panel was working at the behest of the BJP. Responding to Banerjee’s letter, the poll panel said Saturday that “It is the ECI and the governments of states/UTs who are jointly responsible to electors of the largest democracy and are bound to act strictly in the letter and spirit of the respective roles set forth by the founding fathers of the Constitution.” The letter, written by one of the deputy election commissioners, and addressed to Banerjee, referred to Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act to drive home the point that EC can transfer and post them during the poll code period. It said the Kerala High court has also approved of the provision in one of its judgements. “It is unfortunate that an exercise carried out by ECI only for the duration of the Model Code of Conduct is being labelled as arbitrary, motivated at the behest of ruling party at the Centre. It would not be correct and dignified to respond to such averments to prove/burnish its credentials,” the letter read. The Commission pointed out that the transfer of four police officials was “based on the cumulative feedback from the DEC (deputy election commissioner) who oversees electoral process in West Bengal and Special Police Observer”. It said even the officers who have been posted in their place are of similar seniority and being from West Bengal cadre are expected to know about field situation in the state. “It is understood that the Government of West Bengal has already operationalised the decision of ECI in respect of transfers. This action of the Government of West Bengal amply demonstrates the willingness of the state administration to conduct free, fair, credible and ethical elections in West Bengal and ECI is appreciative of this irrespective of the factually incorrect innuendoes …,” the letter read. It said, after several rounds of review, including the one in mid-March, EC appointed a Special Police Observer for West Bengal. Similarly, such observers were appointed for Jharkhand, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Telangana. “Thus, it is not as if any particular state was being singled out. Special Expenditure Observers have also been appointed for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra,” it said.

Fully within rights to transfer officials during polls: Election Commission tells Mamata Banerjee

BJP is all set to launch its election campaign blitzkrieg in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls with back-to-back visits by the top guns of the party.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on April 2, party sources said on Monday.

He is expected to address election rallies in Jamui and Gaya.

But before his visit, BJP president Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Bihar on March 29.

He too will address public meetings in Aurangabad and Nawada.

NDA had finalised a seat-sharing plan in Bihar under which JD(U) and BJP will contest on 17 seats each while the LJP will contest the remaining six seats.

In 2014, NDA won 31 out of 40 seats in Bihar with leading the tally at 22. JD(U) could only manage to win two seats.

In Bihar, the different constituencies will see elections on April 11, 18, 23, and 29 and May 6, 12 and 19.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

 
&nbsp;

BJP is all set to launch its election campaign blitzkrieg in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls with back-to-back visits by the top guns of the party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on April 2, party sources said on Monday.

BJP is all set to launch its election campaign blitzkrieg in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls with back-to-back visits by the top guns of the party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on April 2, party sources said on Monday. He is expected to address election rallies in Jamui and Gaya. But before his visit, BJP president Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Bihar on March 29. He too will address public meetings in Aurangabad and Nawada. NDA had finalised a seat-sharing plan in Bihar under which JD(U) and BJP will contest on 17 seats each while the LJP will contest the remaining six seats. In 2014, NDA won 31 out of 40 seats in Bihar with leading the tally at 22. JD(U) could only manage to win two seats. In Bihar, the different constituencies will see elections on April 11, 18, 23, and 29 and May 6, 12 and 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP to kick off campaign blitz in Bihar as poll heat picks up

Six years after fleeing Muzaffarnagar and taking refuge in camps in Kairana following the deadly riots in 2013, victims here have alleged that despite repeated requests, the government has not built houses for them and they lack basic amenities.

The victims of the 2013 riots, who have been living in refugee camps for the last six years, have said that they will vote for peace in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, slated to begin from April 11.

"We have been living here for the past six years. We still do not have a proper house despite repeated requests to the government. There is no water or electricity. We want houses to be built for us. We will vote for peace in the upcoming elections," one of the victims, Mahmood, told ANI.

The&nbsp;riots&nbsp;took place over a minor altercation between Hindu and Muslim youths at Kawal village in&nbsp;Muzaffarnagar district. As many as 62 people died, while 93 others were injured and over 50,000 were rendered homeless.

Kairana Lok Sabha constituency, which comes under western Uttar Pradesh region, hit headlines when its MP Hukum Singh released a list of Hindu families and alleged that there had been a mass exodus of Hindus from his constituency due to the law and order situation.

After the demise of Singh, the Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Rashtriya Lok Dal jointly fielded Begum Tabassum Hasan who later won the by-elections after beating Singh’s daughter Mriganka from BJP.

Hasan has bagged the SP ticket from the constituency for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, while the BJP has fielded Pradeep Choudhary instead of Mriganka in the impending polls.

Kairana parliamentary constituency will witness voting in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Six years after fleeing Muzaffarnagar and taking refuge in camps in Kairana following the deadly riots in 2013, victims here have alleged that despite repeated requests, the government has not built houses for them and they lack basic amenities.

Six years after fleeing Muzaffarnagar and taking refuge in camps in Kairana following the deadly riots in 2013, victims here have alleged that despite repeated requests, the government has not built houses for them and they lack basic amenities. The victims of the 2013 riots, who have been living in refugee camps for the last six years, have said that they will vote for peace in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, slated to begin from April 11. "We have been living here for the past six years. We still do not have a proper house despite repeated requests to the government. There is no water or electricity. We want houses to be built for us. We will vote for peace in the upcoming elections," one of the victims, Mahmood, told ANI. The riots took place over a minor altercation between Hindu and Muslim youths at Kawal village in Muzaffarnagar district. As many as 62 people died, while 93 others were injured and over 50,000 were rendered homeless. Kairana Lok Sabha constituency, which comes under western Uttar Pradesh region, hit headlines when its MP Hukum Singh released a list of Hindu families and alleged that there had been a mass exodus of Hindus from his constituency due to the law and order situation. After the demise of Singh, the Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Rashtriya Lok Dal jointly fielded Begum Tabassum Hasan who later won the by-elections after beating Singh’s daughter Mriganka from BJP. Hasan has bagged the SP ticket from the constituency for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, while the BJP has fielded Pradeep Choudhary instead of Mriganka in the impending polls. Kairana parliamentary constituency will witness voting in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Uttar Pradesh: Will vote for peace, say Muzaffarnagar riot victims

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation. What is more, from a dismal tally of just two seats in 1984, the first general elections after it was founded, in 2014 it notched up an impressive 282 of the National Democratic Alliance’s total of 336 seats in the 543-seat Lok Sabha. What an incredible success story, even its harshest critics would admit.&nbsp;

Actually, the climb of the BJP to its current summit is even more remarkable than it might first appear. In its earlier avatar, it was known as the Akhil Bharatiya Jana Sangh or Jana Sangh, for short.

The Jana Sangh was started on 21 October 1951. Unfortunately, its founder and first president, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, died in Srinagar less than two years later, on June 23, 1953. Mukherjee entered Kashmir on May 21, 1953, to protest against Article 370 granting special status to the state.&nbsp;

His slogan, “Ek desh me do nishan, do pradhan, nahin chalega, nahin chalega,” had become popular all over India at that time. Mukherjee was arrested at Lakhenpur soon after he had crossed the “border,” then transferred to Srinagar Central Jail. When his health deteriorated, he was placed under house arrest. There, diagnosed as suffering from “dry pleurisy,” he had a severe reaction to streptomycin administered by Dr Ali Mohammad. On June 22, Mukherjee was transferred to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. The very next day, he died in circumstances which many regard as “suspicious.” No post-mortem was conducted, nor did Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru seek to an inquiry.

If Mukherjee was its founder, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was Jana Sangh’s most influential ideologue. His “Integral Humanism” remains the guiding philosophy of the BJP.

Upadhyaya became the president of Jana Sangh in December 1967. Just a couple of months afterwards, he was murdered on February 11, 1968. Around 2:00 am, he was pushed out of a moving train nearing Mughalsarai Junction. His body was found some 700 metres from the platform. A one-man inquiry commission by Justice YV&nbsp;Chandrachud, then of Bombay High Court, concluded that “nothing that has come before me can support the accusation that there was any politics in Shri Upadhyaya’s murder.” Last August, Mughalsarai was renamed PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction.

During the anti- and post-Emergency period of 1977-1980, the Jana Sangh merged into the Janata Party. This conglomeration of ideologically diverse pollical forces, which had come together to oust Indira Gandhi from power, fell apart, giving rise to most of the non-Congress political formations that are present till today in our complex electoral arrangements. The issue flagged by the opponents of the Jana Sangh faction within the Janata Party was the former’s “dual membership” or link with the other “Sangh,” their parent organisation, the RSS. Indeed, it is this umbilical cord that actually defines the BJP’s distinctive identity in our political spectrum.

That is why the two “real” progenitors of the BJP must not be overlooked. “Guruji” Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar became the Sarsanghachalak or head of the RSS in 1940. He inspired Mukherjee and other right-leaning leaders, giving them several RSS workers to start a political party. Before him, “Doctorji” Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder and first Sarsaghachalak of the RSS, had already recognized the need for a political party to safeguard the interests of the Hindus. That is why the Jana Sangh was established close to his birthday, Gudi Padva, the start of the new year for Maharashtrians, Telugus, and Kannadigas. A former Congressman, Hedgewar founded the RSS in 1925 and was a prominent member of the Hindu Mahasabha. The latter, however, failed to take off. After independence, Golwalkar decided to support another political organisation, which is how the Jana Sangh came into being.

Given this background, when one of the founders of the BJP, nonagenarian LK Advani, writes a blog, the nation sits up and takes note. Especially on the eve of the 39th anniversary of the foundation of the party and just before the general elections. Who can disagree with the view that “in our conception of Indian nationalism, we have never regarded those who disagree with us politically as ‘anti-national’”? Or that “Nation First, Party Next, Self Last” and “the triad of Satya (truth), Rashtra Nishtha (dedication to the Nation) and Loktantra (democracy, both within and outside the party)” should guide the party? PM Narendra Modi, the BJP’s star campaigner, was quick to take advantage of Advani’s admonitions. He tweeted, “Proud That Greats Like LK Advani Strengthened BJP” and “Perfectly sums up true essence of BJP” thus check-mating the opposition’s and media’s attempt to turn Advani’s statement against the current BJP leadership.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-advani-modi-the-saffron-party-s-foundation-day-2736694">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed on April 6, 1980. Today, with a vaunted membership of 100 million people, it is the world’s largest political organisation. What is more, from a dismal tally of just two seats in 1984, the first general elections after it was founded, in 2014 it notched up an impressive 282 of the National Democratic Alliance’s total of 336 seats in the 543-seat Lok Sabha. What an incredible success story, even its harshest critics would admit. Actually, the climb of the BJP to its current summit is even more remarkable than it might first appear. In its earlier avatar, it was known as the Akhil Bharatiya Jana Sangh or Jana Sangh, for short. The Jana Sangh was started on 21 October 1951. Unfortunately, its founder and first president, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, died in Srinagar less than two years later, on June 23, 1953. Mukherjee entered Kashmir on May 21, 1953, to protest against Article 370 granting special status to the state. His slogan, “Ek desh me do nishan, do pradhan, nahin chalega, nahin chalega,” had become popular all over India at that time. Mukherjee was arrested at Lakhenpur soon after he had crossed the “border,” then transferred to Srinagar Central Jail. When his health deteriorated, he was placed under house arrest. There, diagnosed as suffering from “dry pleurisy,” he had a severe reaction to streptomycin administered by Dr Ali Mohammad. On June 22, Mukherjee was transferred to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. The very next day, he died in circumstances which many regard as “suspicious.” No post-mortem was conducted, nor did Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru seek to an inquiry. If Mukherjee was its founder, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was Jana Sangh’s most influential ideologue. His “Integral Humanism” remains the guiding philosophy of the BJP. Upadhyaya became the president of Jana Sangh in December 1967. Just a couple of months afterwards, he was murdered on February 11, 1968. Around 2:00 am, he was pushed out of a moving train nearing Mughalsarai Junction. His body was found some 700 metres from the platform. A one-man inquiry commission by Justice YV Chandrachud, then of Bombay High Court, concluded that “nothing that has come before me can support the accusation that there was any politics in Shri Upadhyaya’s murder.” Last August, Mughalsarai was renamed PT. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction. During the anti- and post-Emergency period of 1977-1980, the Jana Sangh merged into the Janata Party. This conglomeration of ideologically diverse pollical forces, which had come together to oust Indira Gandhi from power, fell apart, giving rise to most of the non-Congress political formations that are present till today in our complex electoral arrangements. The issue flagged by the opponents of the Jana Sangh faction within the Janata Party was the former’s “dual membership” or link with the other “Sangh,” their parent organisation, the RSS. Indeed, it is this umbilical cord that actually defines the BJP’s distinctive identity in our political spectrum. That is why the two “real” progenitors of the BJP must not be overlooked. “Guruji” Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar became the Sarsanghachalak or head of the RSS in 1940. He inspired Mukherjee and other right-leaning leaders, giving them several RSS workers to start a political party. Before him, “Doctorji” Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder and first Sarsaghachalak of the RSS, had already recognized the need for a political party to safeguard the interests of the Hindus. That is why the Jana Sangh was established close to his birthday, Gudi Padva, the start of the new year for Maharashtrians, Telugus, and Kannadigas. A former Congressman, Hedgewar founded the RSS in 1925 and was a prominent member of the Hindu Mahasabha. The latter, however, failed to take off. After independence, Golwalkar decided to support another political organisation, which is how the Jana Sangh came into being. Given this background, when one of the founders of the BJP, nonagenarian LK Advani, writes a blog, the nation sits up and takes note. Especially on the eve of the 39th anniversary of the foundation of the party and just before the general elections. Who can disagree with the view that “in our conception of Indian nationalism, we have never regarded those who disagree with us politically as ‘anti-national’”? Or that “Nation First, Party Next, Self Last” and “the triad of Satya (truth), Rashtra Nishtha (dedication to the Nation) and Loktantra (democracy, both within and outside the party)” should guide the party? PM Narendra Modi, the BJP’s star campaigner, was quick to take advantage of Advani’s admonitions. He tweeted, “Proud That Greats Like LK Advani Strengthened BJP” and “Perfectly sums up true essence of BJP” thus check-mating the opposition’s and media’s attempt to turn Advani’s statement against the current BJP leadership. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Modi checkmated opposition's attempt to turn Advani’s statement against current BJP leadership

Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee Sunday accused the Centre of intervening in state matters while questioning the removal of Andhra Pradesh chief secretary by the Election Commission.

She sought to know why Prime Minister Narendra Modi isn't removing his own Cabinet secretary or the Union home secretary if he was so "fond of making last-minute changes".

"Why is the Centre intervening in state matters? Why was Andhra Pradesh chief secretary removed?" Banerjee asked at an election rally here. 
"Why don't you (Modi) remove your own cabinet secretary," she asked.

The Election Commission on Friday removed Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha from the post and appointed senior-most IAS officer LV Subrahmanyam in his place.

Reacting to the poll panel's move of removing four IPS officers in West Bengal, including Kolkata and Bidhanagar police commissioners, the West Bengal chief minister Saturday wrote a letter protesting its decision.

The letter said the removals were "unfortunate, highly arbitrary, motivated and biased" and taken at the behest of BJP, and urged the poll panel to review its decision.

Retorting to PM's claim that the TMC supremo was afraid of him, Banerjee said that it was Modi who was afraid of her and not the other way round.

Without naming former political associate Mukul Roy, whom she addressed as a traitor for quitting her party to join the BJP, she accused Modi of holding a meeting with a person accused in Saradha, Narada cases.

"Have you (PM Narendra Modi) been able to clean the Ganga at Varanasi, that you are looking at Bengal?" Banerjee questioned, saying that the BJP should trying to save its seat in Delhi before turning to Bengal.

She dared the BJP to implement NRC in Bengal, saying it will never be allowed in the state.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee Sunday accused the Centre of intervening in state matters while questioning the removal of Andhra Pradesh chief secretary by the Election Commission.

Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee Sunday accused the Centre of intervening in state matters while questioning the removal of Andhra Pradesh chief secretary by the Election Commission. She sought to know why Prime Minister Narendra Modi isn't removing his own Cabinet secretary or the Union home secretary if he was so "fond of making last-minute changes". "Why is the Centre intervening in state matters? Why was Andhra Pradesh chief secretary removed?" Banerjee asked at an election rally here. "Why don't you (Modi) remove your own cabinet secretary," she asked. The Election Commission on Friday removed Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha from the post and appointed senior-most IAS officer LV Subrahmanyam in his place. Reacting to the poll panel's move of removing four IPS officers in West Bengal, including Kolkata and Bidhanagar police commissioners, the West Bengal chief minister Saturday wrote a letter protesting its decision. The letter said the removals were "unfortunate, highly arbitrary, motivated and biased" and taken at the behest of BJP, and urged the poll panel to review its decision. Retorting to PM's claim that the TMC supremo was afraid of him, Banerjee said that it was Modi who was afraid of her and not the other way round. Without naming former political associate Mukul Roy, whom she addressed as a traitor for quitting her party to join the BJP, she accused Modi of holding a meeting with a person accused in Saradha, Narada cases. "Have you (PM Narendra Modi) been able to clean the Ganga at Varanasi, that you are looking at Bengal?" Banerjee questioned, saying that the BJP should trying to save its seat in Delhi before turning to Bengal. She dared the BJP to implement NRC in Bengal, saying it will never be allowed in the state.

Mamata lashes out at Modi, questions Andhra chief secretary's Removal

The Congress on Sunday launched its campaign slogan for Lok Sabha polls, 'Ab Hoga Nyay', asserting that there was an atmosphere of 'anyay' or injustice prevailing in the country.

Announcing that the Congress campaign will be centred around 'Nyay', senior Congress leader Anand Sharma said the word not only alludes to the party's proposed minimum income guarantee scheme but encompasses justice to all sections of the society.

The theme song has been penned by Javed Akhtar and the campaign video has been filmed by Nikkhil Advani, he said.

Percept Edge is the main agency behind the campaign, Sharma said.

Big container trucks fitted with screens will take Congress' message to various parts of the country, he said.

The Congress on Sunday launched its campaign slogan for Lok Sabha polls, 'Ab Hoga Nyay', asserting that there was an atmosphere of 'anyay' or injustice prevailing in the country.

The Congress on Sunday launched its campaign slogan for Lok Sabha polls, 'Ab Hoga Nyay', asserting that there was an atmosphere of 'anyay' or injustice prevailing in the country. Announcing that the Congress campaign will be centred around 'Nyay', senior Congress leader Anand Sharma said the word not only alludes to the party's proposed minimum income guarantee scheme but encompasses justice to all sections of the society. The theme song has been penned by Javed Akhtar and the campaign video has been filmed by Nikkhil Advani, he said. Percept Edge is the main agency behind the campaign, Sharma said. Big container trucks fitted with screens will take Congress' message to various parts of the country, he said.

'Ab hoga nyay': Congress launches campaign slogan for Lok Sabha polls

All the BJP and Congress candidates, except five, who are in the fray for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, are'crorepatis', revealed the affidavits submitted by them with their nomination papers.

Four of the five candidates, whose total assets are less than one crore rupees, belong to the tribal community.

Some of the richest candidates from these two major parties include Congress's Mehsana nominee, Ambalal Patel, who has declared assets worth Rs 69.9 crore.

BJP candidate and sitting MP from Navsari, Chandrakant Patel, has declared assets worth Rs 44.6 crore.

Poonam Maadam, BJP MP from Jamnagar, who is seeking her re-election from the same seat, has declared assets worth Rs 42.7 crore.

BJP's Shardaben Patel, who is pitted against Ambalal Patel in Mehsana, has shown assets worth Rs 44 crore.

Ramesh Dhaduk, the BJP candidate who replaced sitting MP Vitthal Radadiya on Porbandar seat, has declared assets worth Rs 35.75 crore.

Three candidates of the Congress and two BJP nominees have declared assets less than Rs one crore.

Mansukh Vasava, the sitting BJP MP from Bharuch, who is seeking his re-election for the sixth time, has declared assets worth Rs 68.35 lakh.

Congress candidate Sherkhan Pathan, who is pitted against Vasava, has declared assets of Rs 33.4 lakh.

Naresh Maheshwari, the Congress candidate from Kutch, has declared total assets of Rs 38.13 lakh.

BJP nominee Gitaben Rathva, who is contesting the election from a tribal-reserved seat of Chhota Udepur, has declared assets worth Rs 86.3 lakh.

Jitu Chaudhary, the Congress candidate from tribal-reserved seat of Valsad, has declared total assets of Rs 66.1 lakh.

Total assets include both movable and immovable assets belonging to the candidates, their spouses, and dependents, as declared in the affidavits submitted along with the nomination papers to the returning officer.

Total 573 candidates are in the fray for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, where elections will be held on April 23.

Both the major parties- the Congress as well as the BJP- have fielded candidates from all the 26 seats.&nbsp;

All the BJP and Congress candidates, except five, who are in the fray for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, are'crorepatis', revealed the affidavits submitted by them with their nomination papers.

All the BJP and Congress candidates, except five, who are in the fray for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, are'crorepatis', revealed the affidavits submitted by them with their nomination papers. Four of the five candidates, whose total assets are less than one crore rupees, belong to the tribal community. Some of the richest candidates from these two major parties include Congress's Mehsana nominee, Ambalal Patel, who has declared assets worth Rs 69.9 crore. BJP candidate and sitting MP from Navsari, Chandrakant Patel, has declared assets worth Rs 44.6 crore. Poonam Maadam, BJP MP from Jamnagar, who is seeking her re-election from the same seat, has declared assets worth Rs 42.7 crore. BJP's Shardaben Patel, who is pitted against Ambalal Patel in Mehsana, has shown assets worth Rs 44 crore. Ramesh Dhaduk, the BJP candidate who replaced sitting MP Vitthal Radadiya on Porbandar seat, has declared assets worth Rs 35.75 crore. Three candidates of the Congress and two BJP nominees have declared assets less than Rs one crore. Mansukh Vasava, the sitting BJP MP from Bharuch, who is seeking his re-election for the sixth time, has declared assets worth Rs 68.35 lakh. Congress candidate Sherkhan Pathan, who is pitted against Vasava, has declared assets of Rs 33.4 lakh. Naresh Maheshwari, the Congress candidate from Kutch, has declared total assets of Rs 38.13 lakh. BJP nominee Gitaben Rathva, who is contesting the election from a tribal-reserved seat of Chhota Udepur, has declared assets worth Rs 86.3 lakh. Jitu Chaudhary, the Congress candidate from tribal-reserved seat of Valsad, has declared total assets of Rs 66.1 lakh. Total assets include both movable and immovable assets belonging to the candidates, their spouses, and dependents, as declared in the affidavits submitted along with the nomination papers to the returning officer. Total 573 candidates are in the fray for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, where elections will be held on April 23. Both the major parties- the Congress as well as the BJP- have fielded candidates from all the 26 seats.

Gujarat Lok Sabha polls: All BJP, Congress candidates except 5 are crorepatis

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra became the latest member of India's storied Nehru-Gandhi dynasty to enter politics in January, but the boost she brings the opposition campaign may not turn the tide against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, polls show.

After years of speculation, the charismatic Vadra joined Congress to help its leader, her brother Rahul, in general elections that begin next week, pitching the party and regional groups against Modi.

Congress hopes the fourth-generation siblings of a dynasty that ruled India for decades after independence from Britain in 1947 and is still revered by many will help energise its ranks and counter Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In the run-up to the election that starts on Thursday, the 47-year-old Vadra has spent hours campaigning in cars, trucks and even a boat, to woo voters in Uttar Pradesh, which sends more lawmakers to parliament than any other Indian state.

Reuters followed her at two roadshows where she smiled, waved, and shook hands, occasionally wading into crowds as her security detail scrambled along. Her father and grandmother, both former prime ministers, were assassinated.

Thousands of people lined the streets for several kilometres, waving Congress flags and chanting her name.

"There is support for Congress because of Priyanka," said Mahesh Gupta, a shopkeeper in the temple town of Ayodhya, where she visited a shrine in late March.

Gupta, who referred to Vadra by her first name, as many Indians do, voted for Modi in the last election, but said he was considering Congress after seeing her campaign.

Vadra, a marquee campaigner for Congress, chose Ayodhya as one of her first tours to take on the BJP in its own bastion.

Even so, in the face of the formidable political machine of the BJP which also rules the state, Congress may be unable to capitalise on her appeal, pollsters and some party leaders said.

Vadra's campaigning was getting attention for Congress it would not have got otherwise, but it did not look like the party was making gains, said Milan Vaishnav, an analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

"Many in Congress say the Priyanka play is more about building up the party for 2022 assembly elections and beyond," he said, referring to state elections in Uttar Pradesh.

Last month, polling agencies CVoter and CNX separately estimated Congress would win just 4 of the 80 seats up for grabs in the state, doubling its tally since the last general election in 2014.

That year's sweep of 71 seats for the BJP paved the way for Modi's clear majority in India’s 545-member Lok Sabha.

A broader poll published by a newspaper on Friday showed Modi's approval ratings across India were higher even than in 2014 when he was making a bid for power.

The poll, by the newspaper CSDS-Lokniti, showed 43 per cent of respondents wanted Modi as the next prime minister, with 24 per cent for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Vote wisely

For years, Vadra helped manage elections for her brother and mother, former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, in their own constituencies, but was reluctant to get into politics herself.

A mother of two, she is married to businessman Robert Vadra and has long been seen as a natural politician with strong speaking skills and an ability to easily connect with people.

One afternoon last week, her 12-car convoy sped past lush fields and small settlements, kicking up a cloud of dust before stopping at the village of Atka in the Ayodhya district.

The saree-clad Vadra jumped out of her car and settled down on the ground surrounded by a group of women, many veiled and others smiling.

"If someone doesn’t work for you, how will you teach them a lesson?" she asked, imploring them to vote wisely. "Vote for those who want to work for you."

CVoter, which has run a daily opinion poll since January, said Congress support in Uttar Pradesh has dropped off after jumping 10 percentage points in the days following the news that Vadra had taken a party post.

Late in March, about 8.9 per cent of state voters backed Congress, a far cry from the 43.4 per cent supporting the BJP and the 44 per cent behind an alliance of two major regional parties.

However, even with Vadra's hectic campaigning, Congress is struggling to get its message of welfare to voters, party officials said.

Six voters in Uttar Pradesh said they had not heard of a Congress election promise for a programme to give India's poorest families monthly handouts of 6,000 rupees.

"They brought her in at a very wrong time," said one Congress official, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak formally to media.

A better time would have been December, just days after Congress won power in three key states, giving her more time to prepare, he added. Others in the party have said it should have been years earlier.

The BJP has dismissed Vadra's formal entry into politics as inconsequential and Modi said it only showed that for some "the family is the party".

Vadra's office did not respond to a request from Reuters for an interview.

But Congress will seize on momentum building against the BJP, said Kamal Nath, a top Congress leader and chief minister of Madhya Pradesh.

"You have to time everything," he told Reuters. "You don't want to peak out too fast."

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra became the latest member of India's storied Nehru-Gandhi dynasty to enter politics in January, but the boost she brings the opposition campaign may not turn the tide against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, polls show.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra became the latest member of India's storied Nehru-Gandhi dynasty to enter politics in January, but the boost she brings the opposition campaign may not turn the tide against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, polls show. After years of speculation, the charismatic Vadra joined Congress to help its leader, her brother Rahul, in general elections that begin next week, pitching the party and regional groups against Modi. Congress hopes the fourth-generation siblings of a dynasty that ruled India for decades after independence from Britain in 1947 and is still revered by many will help energise its ranks and counter Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In the run-up to the election that starts on Thursday, the 47-year-old Vadra has spent hours campaigning in cars, trucks and even a boat, to woo voters in Uttar Pradesh, which sends more lawmakers to parliament than any other Indian state. Reuters followed her at two roadshows where she smiled, waved, and shook hands, occasionally wading into crowds as her security detail scrambled along. Her father and grandmother, both former prime ministers, were assassinated. Thousands of people lined the streets for several kilometres, waving Congress flags and chanting her name. "There is support for Congress because of Priyanka," said Mahesh Gupta, a shopkeeper in the temple town of Ayodhya, where she visited a shrine in late March. Gupta, who referred to Vadra by her first name, as many Indians do, voted for Modi in the last election, but said he was considering Congress after seeing her campaign. Vadra, a marquee campaigner for Congress, chose Ayodhya as one of her first tours to take on the BJP in its own bastion. Even so, in the face of the formidable political machine of the BJP which also rules the state, Congress may be unable to capitalise on her appeal, pollsters and some party leaders said. Vadra's campaigning was getting attention for Congress it would not have got otherwise, but it did not look like the party was making gains, said Milan Vaishnav, an analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. "Many in Congress say the Priyanka play is more about building up the party for 2022 assembly elections and beyond," he said, referring to state elections in Uttar Pradesh. Last month, polling agencies CVoter and CNX separately estimated Congress would win just 4 of the 80 seats up for grabs in the state, doubling its tally since the last general election in 2014. That year's sweep of 71 seats for the BJP paved the way for Modi's clear majority in India’s 545-member Lok Sabha. A broader poll published by a newspaper on Friday showed Modi's approval ratings across India were higher even than in 2014 when he was making a bid for power. The poll, by the newspaper CSDS-Lokniti, showed 43 per cent of respondents wanted Modi as the next prime minister, with 24 per cent for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Vote wisely For years, Vadra helped manage elections for her brother and mother, former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, in their own constituencies, but was reluctant to get into politics herself. A mother of two, she is married to businessman Robert Vadra and has long been seen as a natural politician with strong speaking skills and an ability to easily connect with people. One afternoon last week, her 12-car convoy sped past lush fields and small settlements, kicking up a cloud of dust before stopping at the village of Atka in the Ayodhya district. The saree-clad Vadra jumped out of her car and settled down on the ground surrounded by a group of women, many veiled and others smiling. "If someone doesn’t work for you, how will you teach them a lesson?" she asked, imploring them to vote wisely. "Vote for those who want to work for you." CVoter, which has run a daily opinion poll since January, said Congress support in Uttar Pradesh has dropped off after jumping 10 percentage points in the days following the news that Vadra had taken a party post. Late in March, about 8.9 per cent of state voters backed Congress, a far cry from the 43.4 per cent supporting the BJP and the 44 per cent behind an alliance of two major regional parties. However, even with Vadra's hectic campaigning, Congress is struggling to get its message of welfare to voters, party officials said. Six voters in Uttar Pradesh said they had not heard of a Congress election promise for a programme to give India's poorest families monthly handouts of 6,000 rupees. "They brought her in at a very wrong time," said one Congress official, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak formally to media. A better time would have been December, just days after Congress won power in three key states, giving her more time to prepare, he added. Others in the party have said it should have been years earlier. The BJP has dismissed Vadra's formal entry into politics as inconsequential and Modi said it only showed that for some "the family is the party". Vadra's office did not respond to a request from Reuters for an interview. But Congress will seize on momentum building against the BJP, said Kamal Nath, a top Congress leader and chief minister of Madhya Pradesh. "You have to time everything," he told Reuters. "You don't want to peak out too fast."

Priyanka Gandhi in uphill battle against BJP in eastern Uttar Pradesh

BJP is set to release its manifesto for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections on April 8.

The manifesto will be released in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. Other senior leaders of the party including several Cabinet Ministers will be present at the event.

BJP conducted around three-month long exercise to make this “Sankalp Patra”, or the election manifesto for the 2019 election.

The party had also launched hundreds of chariots for its ‘Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat, Modi ke Saath’ campaign in February this year as it wanted to seek suggestions directly from the people to prepare its “Sankalp Patra”&nbsp;

The party had sought suggestions from the people from almost every Lok Sabha seat through this campaign.

Earlier on January 6, BJP had constituted 20-member manifesto committee led by Home Minister Rajanth Singh. Rajnath later constituted 15 sub-committees to work on the Manifesto.

Now the long exercise is over and BJP is ready with its 'Sankalp Patra'.

The party will release its manifesto (Sankalp Patra) on Monday in a mega event at new BJP headquarter situated at Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg.

BJP has promised to make its manifesto “Sankalp Patra”, “voice of the people.”

It remains to be seen what eventually figures out in the manifesto but according to sources- Development, Nationalism, Hindutva, and a special mechanism for job creation are certain to be included in the manifesto.&nbsp;

BJP is set to release its manifesto for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections on April 8. The manifesto will be released in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah.

BJP is set to release its manifesto for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections on April 8. The manifesto will be released in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. Other senior leaders of the party including several Cabinet Ministers will be present at the event. BJP conducted around three-month long exercise to make this “Sankalp Patra”, or the election manifesto for the 2019 election. The party had also launched hundreds of chariots for its ‘Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat, Modi ke Saath’ campaign in February this year as it wanted to seek suggestions directly from the people to prepare its “Sankalp Patra” The party had sought suggestions from the people from almost every Lok Sabha seat through this campaign. Earlier on January 6, BJP had constituted 20-member manifesto committee led by Home Minister Rajanth Singh. Rajnath later constituted 15 sub-committees to work on the Manifesto. Now the long exercise is over and BJP is ready with its 'Sankalp Patra'. The party will release its manifesto (Sankalp Patra) on Monday in a mega event at new BJP headquarter situated at Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg. BJP has promised to make its manifesto “Sankalp Patra”, “voice of the people.” It remains to be seen what eventually figures out in the manifesto but according to sources- Development, Nationalism, Hindutva, and a special mechanism for job creation are certain to be included in the manifesto.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP to release election manifesto 'Sankalp Patra' on Monday

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner."

Punetha was on Friday shifted to a non-election post, while LV Subramanyam, a 1983-batch IAS officer, was appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh.

"For what mistake did EC transfer the Chief Secretary? How can you transfer without telling the mistake he did? Election Commission should work in an unbiased manner," Naidu said.

"I am condemning the transfer of Chief Secretary. I am condemning Centre's conspiracies against Andhra. I will see if they will arrest me tomorrow or day after," he added.

While speaking at a roadshow in Visakhapatnam, Naidu demanded an explanation from the poll body on Punetha's transfer.

He said, "Election commission should be impartial. When the election code came into force, our collector was changed. Two SPs and intelligence are also appointed similarly. Today they changed our Chief Secretary. What does that mean?"

Meanwhile, Naidu, while addressing a rally in Aluru in Kurnool district, assured Muslims that he will give the Deputy Chief Minister post to Muslims if he is voted to power again in Andhra Pradesh.

He even promised to set up an Islamic bank for minorities.

"Vote for Jaganmohan Reddy means vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If Modi comes to power again, minorities will have to face many troubles. If Modi wins again, he will see Muslims in the country will have no votes at all. Jagan became a slave to KCR (Telangana Chief Minister K&nbsp;Chandrashekar Rao) and Modi," Naidu said.

Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11 for Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies in the state. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner.

Hours after the Election Commission ordered the transfer of state Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the EC should work in an "unbiased manner." Punetha was on Friday shifted to a non-election post, while LV Subramanyam, a 1983-batch IAS officer, was appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh. "For what mistake did EC transfer the Chief Secretary? How can you transfer without telling the mistake he did? Election Commission should work in an unbiased manner," Naidu said. "I am condemning the transfer of Chief Secretary. I am condemning Centre's conspiracies against Andhra. I will see if they will arrest me tomorrow or day after," he added. While speaking at a roadshow in Visakhapatnam, Naidu demanded an explanation from the poll body on Punetha's transfer. He said, "Election commission should be impartial. When the election code came into force, our collector was changed. Two SPs and intelligence are also appointed similarly. Today they changed our Chief Secretary. What does that mean?" Meanwhile, Naidu, while addressing a rally in Aluru in Kurnool district, assured Muslims that he will give the Deputy Chief Minister post to Muslims if he is voted to power again in Andhra Pradesh. He even promised to set up an Islamic bank for minorities. "Vote for Jaganmohan Reddy means vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If Modi comes to power again, minorities will have to face many troubles. If Modi wins again, he will see Muslims in the country will have no votes at all. Jagan became a slave to KCR (Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao) and Modi," Naidu said. Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11 for Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies in the state. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission should work in unbiased manner: Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu on transfer of state chief secretary

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission of India has issued a censure to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over his 'Modi ki Sena'&nbsp;remark.

Censure is to express disapproval of someone/something in a formal statement.

The EC has advised Adityanath to be more careful in the future as a "senior political leader."

While addressing a public rally in Ghaziabad on April 1, Adityanath had referred to the Indian Army as "Modi ji ki sena" while drawing a comparison between the steps taken by the BJP-led central government against terrorism and the previous Congress government.

"Things which were impossible for SP-BSP, are now possible; it is possible since Modi is here. Congress used to feed biryani to terrorists but Modi ji ki sena (Prime Minister Narendra Modi's army) gives them only golis and golas (bullets and bombs). This is the difference," the Chief Minister had said.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission of India has issued a censure to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over his 'Modi ki Sena' remark.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission of India has issued a censure to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over his 'Modi ki Sena' remark. Censure is to express disapproval of someone/something in a formal statement. The EC has advised Adityanath to be more careful in the future as a "senior political leader." While addressing a public rally in Ghaziabad on April 1, Adityanath had referred to the Indian Army as "Modi ji ki sena" while drawing a comparison between the steps taken by the BJP-led central government against terrorism and the previous Congress government. "Things which were impossible for SP-BSP, are now possible; it is possible since Modi is here. Congress used to feed biryani to terrorists but Modi ji ki sena (Prime Minister Narendra Modi's army) gives them only golis and golas (bullets and bombs). This is the difference," the Chief Minister had said.

Election Commission issues censure to Yogi Adityanath over 'Modi ki Sena' remark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-time-lotus-will-bloom-in-odisha-modi-at-a-rally-in-sundargarh-208307">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will arrive here on April 13 to campaign for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, party sources said.

He will address an election rally at Nehru Maidan in the city at 3.30 pm in which more than a lakh people will take part, the sources said.

Meanwhile, election officer and Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Sasikanth Senthil held a meeting here to finalise the security arrangements to be made for the visit.

District superintendent of police B M Laxmi Prasad, city police commissioner Sandeep Patil and zilla panchayat chief executive officer R Selvamani attended the meeting.

The Lok Sabha elections will be held in two phases in Karnataka on April 18 and 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive here on April 13 to campaign for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, party sources said. He will address an election rally at Nehru Maidan in the city at 3.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive here on April 13 to campaign for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, party sources said. He will address an election rally at Nehru Maidan in the city at 3.30 pm in which more than a lakh people will take part, the sources said. Meanwhile, election officer and Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Sasikanth Senthil held a meeting here to finalise the security arrangements to be made for the visit. District superintendent of police B M Laxmi Prasad, city police commissioner Sandeep Patil and zilla panchayat chief executive officer R Selvamani attended the meeting. The Lok Sabha elections will be held in two phases in Karnataka on April 18 and 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi to campaign in Mangaluru on April 13

Congress candidate Milind Deora will be fighting against Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant in the prestigious Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency. Mumbai South will be going to the polls on April 29th which will witness a high profile clash between the Congress and Shiv Sena.

Milind is no stranger to the voters in this area since his father, former oil minister Murli Deora won three successive Lok Sabha polls in 1984, 1996 and 1998 from this constituency.

However, it won't be easy for Milind Deora to beat Sawant, 67, since the sitting Shiv Sena MP had beaten the Congress leader by over 1.2 lakh votes in 2014 as the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena swept Mumbai during the all-encompassing Modi wave.

Despite the anti-incumbency factor, Sawant won't be an easy candidate to beat for Congress ex-MP Deora. The Shiva Sena MP has risen to the top through the ranks in the party. He was born in Kumbhavade in Sindhudurg district in Maharashtra and completed his school and college education in Mumbai.

The Shiv Sena MP has been in active politics since the late 1960s for the Shiv Sena.

Arvind, a keen orator, started his political carrier as a social worker and trade union leader winning the Maharashtra legislative council seat for the first time in 1996, then again in 2004.

He has worked in various positions for the Shiv Sena at the grassroots in Maharashtra. He is credited with working for employees of MTNL in Maharashtra helping to fulfil wage agreements.

He was the spokesman and deputy leader of the Shiv Sena before the 2014 elections, after which he began climbing the political ladder. Sawant's victory in the Lok Sabha polls in 2014 was the pivotal moment of his decades' long political career.

After he became an MP, Sawant became a member of the estimates committee and Standing Committee on petroleum and natural gas. He is also a member of consultative committee of ministry and communications and Information Technology.

The sauve guitarist Milind Deora, 42, a Boston University graduate in business, is the president of Mumbai Congress. Deora married Pooja Shetty in 2008, daughter of famous film producer Manmohan Shetty.&nbsp;

He became an MP at the age of 27 after winning the 2004 Lok Sabha polls beating Congress candidate Jaywantiben Mehta with a sizable 10,000 votes from Mumbai South. He was re-elected in 2009 with an even bigger margin of over 1.12 lakh votes.

Deora was given the post in the Manmohan cabinet as MoS Communications and Information Technology during his second term as an MP in 2011 and was given additional charge as MoS Shipping in 2012.

He was also a member of several committees during his tenure as MP including Standing Committee Ministry of Defence and Consultative Committees Urban Development, Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The prestigious Mumbai constituency which is one of the 48 Lok Sabha constituency is now bracing for a war of opposites as the Congress seeks to wrest the seat from Shiv Sena which has made major strides in the state ably helped by its ally BJP.

The results to be declared on May 23rd will be keenly followed since nobody can point towards a clear winner. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress candidate Milind Deora will be fighting against Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant in the prestigious Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency. Mumbai South will be going to the polls on April 29th which will witness a high profile clash between the Congress and Shiv Sena.

Congress candidate Milind Deora will be fighting against Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant in the prestigious Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency. Mumbai South will be going to the polls on April 29th which will witness a high profile clash between the Congress and Shiv Sena. Milind is no stranger to the voters in this area since his father, former oil minister Murli Deora won three successive Lok Sabha polls in 1984, 1996 and 1998 from this constituency. However, it won't be easy for Milind Deora to beat Sawant, 67, since the sitting Shiv Sena MP had beaten the Congress leader by over 1.2 lakh votes in 2014 as the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena swept Mumbai during the all-encompassing Modi wave. Despite the anti-incumbency factor, Sawant won't be an easy candidate to beat for Congress ex-MP Deora. The Shiva Sena MP has risen to the top through the ranks in the party. He was born in Kumbhavade in Sindhudurg district in Maharashtra and completed his school and college education in Mumbai. The Shiv Sena MP has been in active politics since the late 1960s for the Shiv Sena. Arvind, a keen orator, started his political carrier as a social worker and trade union leader winning the Maharashtra legislative council seat for the first time in 1996, then again in 2004. He has worked in various positions for the Shiv Sena at the grassroots in Maharashtra. He is credited with working for employees of MTNL in Maharashtra helping to fulfil wage agreements. He was the spokesman and deputy leader of the Shiv Sena before the 2014 elections, after which he began climbing the political ladder. Sawant's victory in the Lok Sabha polls in 2014 was the pivotal moment of his decades' long political career. After he became an MP, Sawant became a member of the estimates committee and Standing Committee on petroleum and natural gas. He is also a member of consultative committee of ministry and communications and Information Technology. The sauve guitarist Milind Deora, 42, a Boston University graduate in business, is the president of Mumbai Congress. Deora married Pooja Shetty in 2008, daughter of famous film producer Manmohan Shetty. He became an MP at the age of 27 after winning the 2004 Lok Sabha polls beating Congress candidate Jaywantiben Mehta with a sizable 10,000 votes from Mumbai South. He was re-elected in 2009 with an even bigger margin of over 1.12 lakh votes. Deora was given the post in the Manmohan cabinet as MoS Communications and Information Technology during his second term as an MP in 2011 and was given additional charge as MoS Shipping in 2012. He was also a member of several committees during his tenure as MP including Standing Committee Ministry of Defence and Consultative Committees Urban Development, Ministry of Civil Aviation. The prestigious Mumbai constituency which is one of the 48 Lok Sabha constituency is now bracing for a war of opposites as the Congress seeks to wrest the seat from Shiv Sena which has made major strides in the state ably helped by its ally BJP. The results to be declared on May 23rd will be keenly followed since nobody can point towards a clear winner.

Mumbai South: Milind Deora vs Arvind Sawant in war of opposites

Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-biopic-supreme-court-declines-urgent-hearing-in-stopping-release-of-film-case-208093">'PM Narendra Modi'</a>, actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday&nbsp;said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will.

The actor told ANI, "Even though are date has been delayed, but we are undeterred. There are powerful people who are standing against us including many renowned lawyers of the Supreme Court. But we are certain that they can delay us, but cannot deter us."

The film has come under a cloud with Opposition parties claiming that its release was planned for April 5 with the intention of influencing voters in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

Various political parties also stated that releasing the film in less than a week before the Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

Several political leaders had requested to delay the release of the biopic.

Oberoi, who is playing the lead role in the film also took the opportunity to thank the judiciary for its support and added, "I would like to thank the Indian judiciary for giving us justice. On Monday we are being taken to the Supreme Court. We are hopeful that we will get blessings and support from there as well."

The biopic on the incumbent Prime Minister got a new release date yesterday. The film will now hit the theatres on April 11.

He also thanked the people of the nation for their love and support, and said, "We would like to thank you (people) for your blessings and support as that it is our strength at this time. With a lot of efforts, we made a film on Narendra Modi which we wanted to release and share with you all on April 5. But some people surrounded us with so many problems that we could not come on April 5, but now with your blessings and efforts, we are trying to come on April 11. "

The film depicts the journey of Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as a Chief Minister and finally his landmark election as the Prime Minister of the country.

Vivek plays the titular role of Prime Minister Modi in the biopic and will be seen essaying as many as nine different looks. This is the first time that the 42-year-old actor will be seen playing a real-life character in the upcoming drama.

Apart from Vivek, the film also stars Boman Irani, Darshan Kumaar, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Prashant Narayanan, Barkha Bisht Sengupta, Akshat R Saluja, Anjan Shrivastav, Rajendra Gupta and Yatin Karyekar in pivotal roles.

The Lok Sabha election is scheduled to be held in seven phases beginning April 11 and concluding on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

 
&nbsp;

Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, 'PM Narendra Modi', actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will.

Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, 'PM Narendra Modi', actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will. The actor told ANI, "Even though are date has been delayed, but we are undeterred. There are powerful people who are standing against us including many renowned lawyers of the Supreme Court. But we are certain that they can delay us, but cannot deter us." The film has come under a cloud with Opposition parties claiming that its release was planned for April 5 with the intention of influencing voters in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Various political parties also stated that releasing the film in less than a week before the Lok Sabha elections is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Several political leaders had requested to delay the release of the biopic. Oberoi, who is playing the lead role in the film also took the opportunity to thank the judiciary for its support and added, "I would like to thank the Indian judiciary for giving us justice. On Monday we are being taken to the Supreme Court. We are hopeful that we will get blessings and support from there as well." The biopic on the incumbent Prime Minister got a new release date yesterday. The film will now hit the theatres on April 11. He also thanked the people of the nation for their love and support, and said, "We would like to thank you (people) for your blessings and support as that it is our strength at this time. With a lot of efforts, we made a film on Narendra Modi which we wanted to release and share with you all on April 5. But some people surrounded us with so many problems that we could not come on April 5, but now with your blessings and efforts, we are trying to come on April 11. " The film depicts the journey of Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as a Chief Minister and finally his landmark election as the Prime Minister of the country. Vivek plays the titular role of Prime Minister Modi in the biopic and will be seen essaying as many as nine different looks. This is the first time that the 42-year-old actor will be seen playing a real-life character in the upcoming drama. Apart from Vivek, the film also stars Boman Irani, Darshan Kumaar, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Prashant Narayanan, Barkha Bisht Sengupta, Akshat R Saluja, Anjan Shrivastav, Rajendra Gupta and Yatin Karyekar in pivotal roles. The Lok Sabha election is scheduled to be held in seven phases beginning April 11 and concluding on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

PM Modi biopic: Undeterred despite strong opposition, says Vivek Oberoi

BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government.

Addressing a public meeting in Salon block here, she said, "Over the years, people of this block here have understood the injustice done to them by the 'naamdar' (dynast) government and now they are giving chance to our 'kaamdar'&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party."

"For the first time, you have a roof over your head and toilets in your homes. This would not have been possible if it were not for the son of a poor mother itself," she said, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Urging people to vote for the BJP, Irani said, "People must vote for the son a poor mother, who has deposited Rs 6,000 in your bank accounts under the PM-Kisan scheme and supplied LPG cylinders to your houses under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana."

Smriti Irani is on a two-day visit to Amethi from where she is slated to contest elections. Rahul Gandhi has represented Amethi since 2004.

In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, he will be facing a challenge in Amethi from Irani.

The seven-phase elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19.

Counting of votes will be held on May 23. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases.&nbsp;

BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government.

BJP leader and Union Minister Smriti Irani on Saturday asserted that farmers have understood the "injustice" done to them over the years by the "naamdar" Congress government. Addressing a public meeting in Salon block here, she said, "Over the years, people of this block here have understood the injustice done to them by the 'naamdar' (dynast) government and now they are giving chance to our 'kaamdar' Bharatiya Janata Party." "For the first time, you have a roof over your head and toilets in your homes. This would not have been possible if it were not for the son of a poor mother itself," she said, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Urging people to vote for the BJP, Irani said, "People must vote for the son a poor mother, who has deposited Rs 6,000 in your bank accounts under the PM-Kisan scheme and supplied LPG cylinders to your houses under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana." Smriti Irani is on a two-day visit to Amethi from where she is slated to contest elections. Rahul Gandhi has represented Amethi since 2004. In the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, he will be facing a challenge in Amethi from Irani. The seven-phase elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. Counting of votes will be held on May 23. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases.

Farmers have understood 'injustice' done to them by 'naamdar' government: Smriti Irani

Sonia Gandhi hits out at Modi government

Reposing confidence on its sitting MPs, BJP on Saturday released a list of 24 candidates in Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh for the ensuing Lok Sabha election.

The party has announced eight candidates for Haryana, four of Uttar Pradesh, three each of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand and one each for West Bengal and Odisha.

In Haryana, six tickets out of eight have gone to sitting MPs while only on two seats, BJP has announced new candidates-Sanjay Bhatia and Nayab Singh Seni.

Bhatia has replaced current MP Ashwani Kumar. Besides this, in Madhya Pradesh, BJP has put forward Nathan Shah against Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son in Chhindwara.

Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, BJP has announced four candidates for Bharatpur, Karoli, Badmer and Rajsamand Lok Sabha seats. Interestingly, Diya Kumari who was not given any ticket in the last assembly election of Rajasthan will this time contest from Rajsamand constituency on the BJP seat.

Replacing the current MP of Bandha in Uttar Pradesh, BJP has declared that RK Patel will contest the upcoming election.

After Uma Bharti denied contesting the election, her seat was given to Anurag Sharma. In addition to that, BJP on Saturday also announced two candidates for upcoming assembly election in Odisha.

The party also declared two bye-election candidates for Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

While Vivek Sahu will contest from Chhindwara, Shashank Sharma candidature has been announced from Uttar Pradesh's Nighasan.

The Lok Sabha election will start on April 11 and will end on May 19. The result will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Reposing confidence on its sitting MPs, BJP on Saturday released a list of 24 candidates in Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh for the ensuing Lok Sabha election.

Reposing confidence on its sitting MPs, BJP on Saturday released a list of 24 candidates in Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh for the ensuing Lok Sabha election. The party has announced eight candidates for Haryana, four of Uttar Pradesh, three each of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand and one each for West Bengal and Odisha. In Haryana, six tickets out of eight have gone to sitting MPs while only on two seats, BJP has announced new candidates-Sanjay Bhatia and Nayab Singh Seni. Bhatia has replaced current MP Ashwani Kumar. Besides this, in Madhya Pradesh, BJP has put forward Nathan Shah against Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son in Chhindwara. Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, BJP has announced four candidates for Bharatpur, Karoli, Badmer and Rajsamand Lok Sabha seats. Interestingly, Diya Kumari who was not given any ticket in the last assembly election of Rajasthan will this time contest from Rajsamand constituency on the BJP seat. Replacing the current MP of Bandha in Uttar Pradesh, BJP has declared that RK Patel will contest the upcoming election. After Uma Bharti denied contesting the election, her seat was given to Anurag Sharma. In addition to that, BJP on Saturday also announced two candidates for upcoming assembly election in Odisha. The party also declared two bye-election candidates for Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. While Vivek Sahu will contest from Chhindwara, Shashank Sharma candidature has been announced from Uttar Pradesh's Nighasan. The Lok Sabha election will start on April 11 and will end on May 19. The result will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 24 candidates

Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-achieved-success-in-getting-pakistan-isolated-sushma-swaraj-208266">Sushma Swaraj </a>Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi's reported remarks that terrorism was not an issue and asked if that was the case, he should renounce his SPG security cover.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) says a job is an issue, not terrorism. I want to tell Rahul Gandhi ji, if terrorism is not an issue and there is no terrorism in the country, then why do you go around with SPG security?

"From the period of the assassination of (former Prime Minister and Rahul's father) Rajiv Gandhi till now all your family is under the security cover of SPG."

If you feel that terrorism is not an issue then I want to tell you, you write it and give that you do not need SPG security because you feel there is no terrorism in this country and you are not afraid of anybody," she said.

At an election meeting here, Swaraj referred to the air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan's Balakot following the Pulwama attack and said opposition parties who do not have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi were taking his Pakistan counterparts statements for granted.

The External Affairs Minister said the air strikes received international support and she received calls from leaders of several countries appreciating India's stand on terrorism.

Opposition parties in the country were taking exception to the BJP claiming credit for the air strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in February, she said.

She said the UPA Government should have taken strong action against Pakistan when the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which 166 people including 40 foreign nationals were killed, took place.

Narrating the NDA government's initiatives for people, Swaraj said the ruling party's poll plank will be on three issues- security, development and welfare.

She said as many as 1.16 lakh villages have been connected with fibre optic network.

"There were only 77 passport centres in the country now it has gone up to 505 and in Telangana, they were just four and it has gone up to 19," Swaraj added.&nbsp;

Union Minister Sushma Swaraj Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi's reported remarks that terrorism was not an issue and asked if that was the case, he should renounce his SPG security cover.

Union Minister Sushma Swaraj Friday hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi's reported remarks that terrorism was not an issue and asked if that was the case, he should renounce his SPG security cover. "He (Rahul Gandhi) says a job is an issue, not terrorism. I want to tell Rahul Gandhi ji, if terrorism is not an issue and there is no terrorism in the country, then why do you go around with SPG security? "From the period of the assassination of (former Prime Minister and Rahul's father) Rajiv Gandhi till now all your family is under the security cover of SPG." If you feel that terrorism is not an issue then I want to tell you, you write it and give that you do not need SPG security because you feel there is no terrorism in this country and you are not afraid of anybody," she said. At an election meeting here, Swaraj referred to the air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan's Balakot following the Pulwama attack and said opposition parties who do not have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi were taking his Pakistan counterparts statements for granted. The External Affairs Minister said the air strikes received international support and she received calls from leaders of several countries appreciating India's stand on terrorism. Opposition parties in the country were taking exception to the BJP claiming credit for the air strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in February, she said. She said the UPA Government should have taken strong action against Pakistan when the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which 166 people including 40 foreign nationals were killed, took place. Narrating the NDA government's initiatives for people, Swaraj said the ruling party's poll plank will be on three issues- security, development and welfare. She said as many as 1.16 lakh villages have been connected with fibre optic network. "There were only 77 passport centres in the country now it has gone up to 505 and in Telangana, they were just four and it has gone up to 19," Swaraj added.

Rahul Gandhi should renounce SPG security if terror not an issue: Swaraj

The ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh Saturday released its manifesto for the general elections promising doles to the tune of Rs 2 lakh to each family every year, with the monetary benefits starting from womb to tomb.

Releasing his party manifesto, TDP president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said while Congress chief Rahul Gandhi promised Rs 72,000 per annum to each poor family, his government if voted back to power, would be giving out Rs 2 lakh to each family every year.

"Nobody can match us in extending such largesse even in imagination," he said.

The TDP promised to continue the Centre's PM Kisan Samman scheme with a matching grant from the state, giving a benefit of up to Rs 15,000 to each farmer per annum.

The principal opposition YSR Congress party also released its manifesto, hours ahead of the TDP, matching the largesse in equal measure, if not more.

The Assembly and Lok Sabha elections are being held simultaneously in Andhra Pradesh which goes to the polls in the first phase on April 11.

While the TDPs promises include raising the limits of various existing schemes for different sections, the YSRC party added several new components to the Nava Ratnalu it announced on the eve of its president Y S Jaganmohan Reddys 'paada yatra' in November 2017.

Officials estimated that the cash-starved state government will require at least Rs 1.5 lakh crore to Rs 2 lakh crore to fulfill the promises of either party.

With the two parties promising 30-45 lakh free houses for different sections, besides waiver of existing loans on old houses, that bill alone is expected to cross over Rs 40,000 crore.

Neither the TDP nor YSRC announced a farm loan waiver but promised several benefits to farmers in varied measures.

The YSRC, on the other hand, promised to introduce the YSR Rythu Bharosa scheme that will give annual benefits from Rs 12,500 to Rs one lakh to each farmer.

Tenant farmers would be given Rs 12,500, according to Jagan Mohan Reddy.

The highlight of YSRC's promises is a health insurance scheme Aarogya Sri, first introduced by former Chief Minister, the late Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, without any cap to ensure universal health coverage.

The YSRC also announced a stipend of Rs 60,000 to junior lawyers, a first-of-its-kind incentive. Besides, a Rs 100 crore Lawyer Welfare Fund would also be created.

While the YSRC chief promised to fill all 2.3 lakh existing vacant jobs in the state government, the Chief Minister merely said all vacancies would be filled, without specifying the number.

Both, however, promised to take up recruitment drive every year to fill future vacancies in the government.

Naidu promised to continue the Pasupu-Kumkuma scheme under which Rs 10,000 would be given to each member of women self-help groups (SHGs).

The YSRC promised Rs 50,000 per annum to SHG women and also interest-free loans.

The TDP promised free higher education and a Rs 25 lakh grant for overseas education while the YSRC promised total fee reimbursement and also an annual Rs 20,000 per student to cover food and accommodation expenses.

Every woman would be given Rs 15,000 a year for sending her children to school.

Another highlight of the YSRC manifesto is a grant of Rs 75,000 for each woman over the age of 45, belonging to the SC, ST, BC and minorities under 'YSR Cheyuta.'

The opposition party also promised liquor prohibition, making it available only in five-star hotels.

A Rs 3,000 crore price stabilization fund for the farm sector, Rs 4,000 crore Natural Calamity Fund and Rs 75,000 crore BC Welfare Fund are the other major promises of the YSRC.

The TDP has also come forward to set up a price stabilisation fund with a corpus of Rs 5,000 crore.

Naidu announced a "five-point vision" for AP development listing interlinking of rivers, construction of capital Amaravati into a world-class city, development of a 974-km long Beach Road with interlink to National Highways and airports, industrial development through 175 MSME Parks and use of pollution-free energy consumption as the key priorities.

"Creating a healthy and happy Andhra Pradesh that is free of poverty is my ultimate aim," Naidu noted, with the slogan 'Your Future-My Responsibility.'&nbsp;

The ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh Saturday released its manifesto for the general elections promising doles to the tune of Rs 2 lakh to each family every year, with the monetary benefits starting from womb to tomb.

The ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh Saturday released its manifesto for the general elections promising doles to the tune of Rs 2 lakh to each family every year, with the monetary benefits starting from womb to tomb. Releasing his party manifesto, TDP president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said while Congress chief Rahul Gandhi promised Rs 72,000 per annum to each poor family, his government if voted back to power, would be giving out Rs 2 lakh to each family every year. "Nobody can match us in extending such largesse even in imagination," he said. The TDP promised to continue the Centre's PM Kisan Samman scheme with a matching grant from the state, giving a benefit of up to Rs 15,000 to each farmer per annum. The principal opposition YSR Congress party also released its manifesto, hours ahead of the TDP, matching the largesse in equal measure, if not more. The Assembly and Lok Sabha elections are being held simultaneously in Andhra Pradesh which goes to the polls in the first phase on April 11. While the TDPs promises include raising the limits of various existing schemes for different sections, the YSRC party added several new components to the Nava Ratnalu it announced on the eve of its president Y S Jaganmohan Reddys 'paada yatra' in November 2017. Officials estimated that the cash-starved state government will require at least Rs 1.5 lakh crore to Rs 2 lakh crore to fulfill the promises of either party. With the two parties promising 30-45 lakh free houses for different sections, besides waiver of existing loans on old houses, that bill alone is expected to cross over Rs 40,000 crore. Neither the TDP nor YSRC announced a farm loan waiver but promised several benefits to farmers in varied measures. The YSRC, on the other hand, promised to introduce the YSR Rythu Bharosa scheme that will give annual benefits from Rs 12,500 to Rs one lakh to each farmer. Tenant farmers would be given Rs 12,500, according to Jagan Mohan Reddy. The highlight of YSRC's promises is a health insurance scheme Aarogya Sri, first introduced by former Chief Minister, the late Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, without any cap to ensure universal health coverage. The YSRC also announced a stipend of Rs 60,000 to junior lawyers, a first-of-its-kind incentive. Besides, a Rs 100 crore Lawyer Welfare Fund would also be created. While the YSRC chief promised to fill all 2.3 lakh existing vacant jobs in the state government, the Chief Minister merely said all vacancies would be filled, without specifying the number. Both, however, promised to take up recruitment drive every year to fill future vacancies in the government. Naidu promised to continue the Pasupu-Kumkuma scheme under which Rs 10,000 would be given to each member of women self-help groups (SHGs). The YSRC promised Rs 50,000 per annum to SHG women and also interest-free loans. The TDP promised free higher education and a Rs 25 lakh grant for overseas education while the YSRC promised total fee reimbursement and also an annual Rs 20,000 per student to cover food and accommodation expenses. Every woman would be given Rs 15,000 a year for sending her children to school. Another highlight of the YSRC manifesto is a grant of Rs 75,000 for each woman over the age of 45, belonging to the SC, ST, BC and minorities under 'YSR Cheyuta.' The opposition party also promised liquor prohibition, making it available only in five-star hotels. A Rs 3,000 crore price stabilization fund for the farm sector, Rs 4,000 crore Natural Calamity Fund and Rs 75,000 crore BC Welfare Fund are the other major promises of the YSRC. The TDP has also come forward to set up a price stabilisation fund with a corpus of Rs 5,000 crore. Naidu announced a "five-point vision" for AP development listing interlinking of rivers, construction of capital Amaravati into a world-class city, development of a 974-km long Beach Road with interlink to National Highways and airports, industrial development through 175 MSME Parks and use of pollution-free energy consumption as the key priorities. "Creating a healthy and happy Andhra Pradesh that is free of poverty is my ultimate aim," Naidu noted, with the slogan 'Your Future-My Responsibility.'

TDP releases manifesto, promises Rs 2 lakh to each family