Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday announced fixing a timeline for the release of a manifesto by political parties.

It has issued a directive that manifestos for both single and multiphase elections shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 pertains to the prohibition of public meetings during the period of forty-eight hours ending with the hour fixed for the conclusion of poll.

Election Commission of India has also said that the provision will, henceforth, be applicable and implemented as a part of the Model Code of Conduct for all future elections.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday announced fixing a timeline for the release of a manifesto by political parties. It has issued a directive that manifestos for both single and multiphase elections shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday announced fixing a timeline for the release of a manifesto by political parties. It has issued a directive that manifestos for both single and multiphase elections shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 pertains to the prohibition of public meetings during the period of forty-eight hours ending with the hour fixed for the conclusion of poll. Election Commission of India has also said that the provision will, henceforth, be applicable and implemented as a part of the Model Code of Conduct for all future elections.

Election Commission fixes timeline for political parties to release manifesto

The Congress late on Friday night released the third list of 18 candidates, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls fielding former Chief Minister of Meghalaya Mukul M Sangma from Tura parliamentary constituency.

Out of 18 candidates declared, eight are from Telangana, five are from Assam, two from Meghalaya and one each from Nagaland, Sikkim and Uttar Pradesh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/npp-to-field-agatha-k-sangma-from-meghalayas-tura-lok-sabha-constituency-203631">Sangma, presently the Leader of Opposition in the Meghalaya Assembly will take on former Union Minister Agatha Sangma</a>, who will be contesting the general elections from the ruling National People’s Party (NPP).

In Telangana around 17 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, 14 in Assam, 2 in Meghalaya, 80 in Uttar Pradesh and one each in Nagaland and Sikkim.

Sitting members Gaurav Gogoi, Sushmita Dev and Vincent Pala have been re-nominated from Kaliabor, Silchar and Shillong Lok Sabha seats respectively.

Swarup Das will be fielded from Assam's Karimganj seat, Sushanta Borgohain from Jorhat and Praban Singh Ghatowar from Dibrugarh in Assam.

Two-time sitting MP and former Union Minister Vincent C Pala will contest from Shillong, while KL Chilsi will contest from Nagaland and Tanuja Punia from Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki.

The eight candidates in the list who will contest from Telangana include, Ramesh Rathod (Adilabad), A Chandra Sekhar (Peddapalle), Ponnam Prabhakar (Karimanagar), K. Madan Mohan Rao (Zahirabad), Gali Anil Kumar (Medak), A Revanth Reddy (Malkajgiri), Konda Vishweshwar Reddy (Chevella), Porika Balram Naik (Mahabubabad) and Tanuj Punia (Barabanki).

So far, the Congress has declared 54 candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, which held in seven-phase beginning April 11.

The last phase of polling is scheduled for May 19.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23. The Congress party released its first list on March 7, declaring the candidature of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi from Rae Bareli and Congress president Rahul Gandhi from Amethi.

The list of 15 candidates included 11 from Uttar Pradesh and four from Gujarat.

The second list of 21 candidates was released on Wednesday, which includes Priya Dutta from Mumbai North-Central Lok Sabha seat, and UP party unit chief Raj Babbar from Moradabad.

The Congress late on Friday night released the third list of 18 candidates, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls fielding former Chief Minister of Meghalaya Mukul M Sangma from Tura parliamentary constituency.

The Congress late on Friday night released the third list of 18 candidates, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls fielding former Chief Minister of Meghalaya Mukul M Sangma from Tura parliamentary constituency. Out of 18 candidates declared, eight are from Telangana, five are from Assam, two from Meghalaya and one each from Nagaland, Sikkim and Uttar Pradesh. Sangma, presently the Leader of Opposition in the Meghalaya Assembly will take on former Union Minister Agatha Sangma, who will be contesting the general elections from the ruling National People’s Party (NPP). In Telangana around 17 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, 14 in Assam, 2 in Meghalaya, 80 in Uttar Pradesh and one each in Nagaland and Sikkim. Sitting members Gaurav Gogoi, Sushmita Dev and Vincent Pala have been re-nominated from Kaliabor, Silchar and Shillong Lok Sabha seats respectively. Swarup Das will be fielded from Assam's Karimganj seat, Sushanta Borgohain from Jorhat and Praban Singh Ghatowar from Dibrugarh in Assam. Two-time sitting MP and former Union Minister Vincent C Pala will contest from Shillong, while KL Chilsi will contest from Nagaland and Tanuja Punia from Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki. The eight candidates in the list who will contest from Telangana include, Ramesh Rathod (Adilabad), A Chandra Sekhar (Peddapalle), Ponnam Prabhakar (Karimanagar), K. Madan Mohan Rao (Zahirabad), Gali Anil Kumar (Medak), A Revanth Reddy (Malkajgiri), Konda Vishweshwar Reddy (Chevella), Porika Balram Naik (Mahabubabad) and Tanuj Punia (Barabanki). So far, the Congress has declared 54 candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, which held in seven-phase beginning April 11. The last phase of polling is scheduled for May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. The Congress party released its first list on March 7, declaring the candidature of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi from Rae Bareli and Congress president Rahul Gandhi from Amethi. The list of 15 candidates included 11 from Uttar Pradesh and four from Gujarat. The second list of 21 candidates was released on Wednesday, which includes Priya Dutta from Mumbai North-Central Lok Sabha seat, and UP party unit chief Raj Babbar from Moradabad.

Congress releases 3rd list of 18 candidates, M Mukul Sangma to contest from Meghalaya's Tura

Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain on Saturday met the representatives of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress (INC) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

TMC's Partha Chatterjee, BJP's Mukul Roy and Congress' Pradeep Bhattacharya attended the meeting. "We have proposed to assign media observers ahead of the elections," said Bhattacharya.

"The proposal of allocating CCTV cameras at poll booths was also put forth." He said TMC leaders including ministers are trying to instil fear-psychosis among people.&nbsp;

"We have requested the Election Commission to check this." On Friday, the Election Commission held a meeting of the Multi-Departmental Committee on Election Intelligence.

Heads of tax boards, law enforcement agencies, central paramilitary forces and representatives of financial institutions attended the meeting.

Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain on Saturday met the representatives of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress (INC) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain on Saturday met the representatives of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress (INC) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. TMC's Partha Chatterjee, BJP's Mukul Roy and Congress' Pradeep Bhattacharya attended the meeting. "We have proposed to assign media observers ahead of the elections," said Bhattacharya. "The proposal of allocating CCTV cameras at poll booths was also put forth." He said TMC leaders including ministers are trying to instil fear-psychosis among people. "We have requested the Election Commission to check this." On Friday, the Election Commission held a meeting of the Multi-Departmental Committee on Election Intelligence. Heads of tax boards, law enforcement agencies, central paramilitary forces and representatives of financial institutions attended the meeting.

Election Commission holds meeting with representatives of three political parties

The BJP's Delhi unit has requested the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint special observers at mosques to prevent any attempt to influence voters on "religious lines" during the Lok Sabha election.

In a letter, Delhi BJP's legal department convener Neeraj cited alleged attempts by some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders to polarise voters on religious lines and requested the CEO to appoint special observers at mosques.

"We are bound to write you this complaint due to recent repeated attempts to polarise voters on religious lines by the convener of the AAP, Arvind Kejriwal, and his party members," alleged Neeraj.

Kejriwal, while addressing events and public gatherings in minorities-dominated areas, had been asking people to beware of vote split between the AAP and the Congress and vote for his party to defeat the BJP in Lok Sabha polls.

No immediate reaction was available on the issue from the AAP.

"He has been giving baseless statements to polarise the voters in Muslim dominated areas," Neeraj said.

He requested the CEO to appoint special observers for mosques in Muslim-dominated areas so that the political and religious leaders cannot spread "hate" among people to "influence" elections.

"If any violation takes place, based on the reports of the special observers, the Election Commission can take immediate cognizance of it and initiate necessary action," he said.

This is a matter of "grave concern" to ensure free and fare elections without any violation of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha Elections 2019, he added.

Polling in seven seats in Delhi will take place May 12.

Earlier this week, political parties in Kerala were asked by the poll authority to refrain from soliciting votes in the name of Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala, in the coming polls.

Sabarimala had witnessed frenzied protests over the women's entry issue after the CPI(M)-led LDF government had decided to implement the September 28, 2018 Supreme Court verdict, allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine.

The parties must not use the name of Lord Ayyappa for soliciting votes and creating disharmony, the Kerala Chief Electoral Officer an all-party meeting on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The BJP's Delhi unit has requested the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint special observers at mosques to prevent any attempt to influence voters on "religious lines" during the Lok Sabha election.

The BJP's Delhi unit has requested the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint special observers at mosques to prevent any attempt to influence voters on "religious lines" during the Lok Sabha election. In a letter, Delhi BJP's legal department convener Neeraj cited alleged attempts by some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders to polarise voters on religious lines and requested the CEO to appoint special observers at mosques. "We are bound to write you this complaint due to recent repeated attempts to polarise voters on religious lines by the convener of the AAP, Arvind Kejriwal, and his party members," alleged Neeraj. Kejriwal, while addressing events and public gatherings in minorities-dominated areas, had been asking people to beware of vote split between the AAP and the Congress and vote for his party to defeat the BJP in Lok Sabha polls. No immediate reaction was available on the issue from the AAP. "He has been giving baseless statements to polarise the voters in Muslim dominated areas," Neeraj said. He requested the CEO to appoint special observers for mosques in Muslim-dominated areas so that the political and religious leaders cannot spread "hate" among people to "influence" elections. "If any violation takes place, based on the reports of the special observers, the Election Commission can take immediate cognizance of it and initiate necessary action," he said. This is a matter of "grave concern" to ensure free and fare elections without any violation of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha Elections 2019, he added. Polling in seven seats in Delhi will take place May 12. Earlier this week, political parties in Kerala were asked by the poll authority to refrain from soliciting votes in the name of Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala, in the coming polls. Sabarimala had witnessed frenzied protests over the women's entry issue after the CPI(M)-led LDF government had decided to implement the September 28, 2018 Supreme Court verdict, allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine. The parties must not use the name of Lord Ayyappa for soliciting votes and creating disharmony, the Kerala Chief Electoral Officer an all-party meeting on Wednesday.

Appoint special observers at mosques to prevent any misuse by parties: Delhi BJP to poll panel

The National People’s Party (NPP) on Friday announced that former Union Minister Agatha K Sangma and Thangminlien Kipgen will contest Lok Sabha elections for the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya and Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency respectively.

The two names were approved by the Central Election Committee of the NPP in a meeting chaired by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma in Delhi.

Two Lok Sabha seats each are at stake in Manipur and Meghalaya.

This time the NPP has decided to field in the North East and support candidate of the United Democratic Party (UDP) from Shillong for ensuing general elections.

The Congress party, which released its third list of its candidates for Lok Sabha polls on Friday night, has decided to field former chief minister Mukul Sangma as its candidate from Tura and current Lok Sabha MP Vincent H Pala from Shillong.

The party also announced that Ferlene C A Sangma will contest the byelection of Selsella Assembly seat in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district.

Election to the Tura Lok Sabha seat and byelection to the Selsella Assembly constituency will be held on April 11.

This time, the general elections will be held in seven-phase starting from April 11. The last phase of polling is scheduled for May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

The National People’s Party (NPP) on Friday announced that former Union Minister Agatha K Sangma and Thangminlien Kipgen will contest Lok Sabha elections for the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya and Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency respectively.

The National People’s Party (NPP) on Friday announced that former Union Minister Agatha K Sangma and Thangminlien Kipgen will contest Lok Sabha elections for the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya and Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency respectively. The two names were approved by the Central Election Committee of the NPP in a meeting chaired by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma in Delhi. Two Lok Sabha seats each are at stake in Manipur and Meghalaya. This time the NPP has decided to field in the North East and support candidate of the United Democratic Party (UDP) from Shillong for ensuing general elections. The Congress party, which released its third list of its candidates for Lok Sabha polls on Friday night, has decided to field former chief minister Mukul Sangma as its candidate from Tura and current Lok Sabha MP Vincent H Pala from Shillong. The party also announced that Ferlene C A Sangma will contest the byelection of Selsella Assembly seat in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district. Election to the Tura Lok Sabha seat and byelection to the Selsella Assembly constituency will be held on April 11. This time, the general elections will be held in seven-phase starting from April 11. The last phase of polling is scheduled for May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

NPP to field Agatha K Sangma from Meghalaya's Tura Lok Sabha constituency

A month after declaring an alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress on Friday said it will field 11 candidates in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, where 40 parliamentary seats are at stake.

"The decision was taken at a meeting of Congress Election Committee. There is no meaning of sending names of more than 11 candidates as we were offered only 11 seats. Rahul Gandhi will take a final call on the names of candidates and soon he will declare the names," Congress leader Akhilesh Singh told ANI after the meeting.

The grand alliance formed by the Opposition in Bihar includes the Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD), Congress, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP), Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Lok Jantrantrik Dal (LJD) and Vikas Sheel Insaan Party (VIP).

Earlier, the Congress had put forward a demand of 12 seats, including a seat for senior leader and former Union Minister Tariq Anwar who recently returned to the party after leaving NCP.

The RJD is adamant in contesting at least 20 seats. On March 13, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had claimed that there is no confusion among the leaders of Bihar Mahagathbandhan regarding "seat-sharing".Congress leader Ranjeet Ranjan on Friday said that the &nbsp;Bihar 'Mahagathbandhan'&nbsp;(grand alliance) candidate list will be announced on March 17 and her husband Pappu Yadav is likely to be a part of it.

Addressing media persons, Ranjan said, "Mahagathbandhan in Bihar will announce its list of candidates on March 17. I think Pappu Yadav will become a part of the gathbandhan."

Pappu Yadav is currently the leader of Jan Adhikar Party-Loktantrik (JAP-L) and had defeated Sharad Yadav in 2014 Lok Sabha elections from Madhepura constituency.

There are 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. Bihar will go to polls in all the seven phases on April 11, 18, 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. The results would be announced on May 23.

A month after declaring an alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress on Friday said it will field 11 candidates in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, where 40 parliamentary seats are at stake.

A month after declaring an alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress on Friday said it will field 11 candidates in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, where 40 parliamentary seats are at stake. "The decision was taken at a meeting of Congress Election Committee. There is no meaning of sending names of more than 11 candidates as we were offered only 11 seats. Rahul Gandhi will take a final call on the names of candidates and soon he will declare the names," Congress leader Akhilesh Singh told ANI after the meeting. The grand alliance formed by the Opposition in Bihar includes the Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD), Congress, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP), Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Lok Jantrantrik Dal (LJD) and Vikas Sheel Insaan Party (VIP). Earlier, the Congress had put forward a demand of 12 seats, including a seat for senior leader and former Union Minister Tariq Anwar who recently returned to the party after leaving NCP. The RJD is adamant in contesting at least 20 seats. On March 13, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had claimed that there is no confusion among the leaders of Bihar Mahagathbandhan regarding "seat-sharing".Congress leader Ranjeet Ranjan on Friday said that the Bihar 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) candidate list will be announced on March 17 and her husband Pappu Yadav is likely to be a part of it. Addressing media persons, Ranjan said, "Mahagathbandhan in Bihar will announce its list of candidates on March 17. I think Pappu Yadav will become a part of the gathbandhan." Pappu Yadav is currently the leader of Jan Adhikar Party-Loktantrik (JAP-L) and had defeated Sharad Yadav in 2014 Lok Sabha elections from Madhepura constituency. There are 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. Bihar will go to polls in all the seven phases on April 11, 18, 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. The results would be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress to fight 11 seats in Bihar

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Yogi Adityanath</a> Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference'&nbsp;to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'. 
 
'The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. 
 
'Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP),' he told PTI. 
 
Adityanath also claimed that the 'fledgeling'&nbsp;SP-BSP alliance is already 'embroiled in dispute'. 
 
'The newfound alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm),'&nbsp;he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference' to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make 'no difference' to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as 'false alarm'. 'The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. 'Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP),' he told PTI. Adityanath also claimed that the 'fledgeling' SP-BSP alliance is already 'embroiled in dispute'. 'The newfound alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm),' he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday.

Priyanka Vadra will make no difference to BJP's poll prospects in UP: Yogi Adityanath

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
“फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। 
 
अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती <a href="https://twitter.com/AnupriyaSPatel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnupriyaSPatel</a> जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। <a href="https://t.co/kBbuAyBs7m">pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1106495389106999296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties.

With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said.&nbsp;

Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats.

In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal (Sonelal), which will contest in two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. BJP president Amit Shah announced the agreement on Twitter, saying that Apna Dal (S) leader and Union minister Anupriya Patel would again contest from Mirzapur. “फिर एक बार-मोदी सरकार” के संकल्प के साथ ‘भाजपा-अपना दल’ गठबंधन उत्तरप्रदेश में लोकसभा चुनाव साथ-साथ लडेगा। अपना दल प्रदेश की दो सीटों पर चुनाव लडेगा, जिसमे श्रीमती @AnupriyaSPatel जी मिर्जापुर से चुनाव लड़ेंगी और दूसरी सीट पर दोनों दलों के नेता बैठकर चर्चा करेंगे। pic.twitter.com/kBbuAyBs7m — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 15, 2019 × Shah said the second seat would be finalised later after deliberations between leaders of both the parties. With the resolve of again forming the Modi government at the Centre, the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) will contest the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh together, Shah said. Apna Dal (S) was upset and has been expressing their apprehensions about staying in the National Democratic Alliance, but was finally convinced by the BJP for two seats. In the 2014 general election, the Apna Dal had won two seats and the BJP had won 71 seats in UP, which has 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. PTI

Lok Sabha polls: BJP seals alliance with Apna Dal (S), give 2 seats

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata.

Women are making a beeline at a store in the city’s largest shopping complexes – New Market to view and purchase sarees with political party symbols on it. &nbsp;

These sarees have the TMC, BJP symbols digitally printed on it and come in several fabrics and patterns, designs.

''We always come up with something new on festivals. Be it Diwali or Holi, we come up with festival-themed sarees. Since the election is our biggest political festival, we thought why not come up with election-themed sarees,'' said the shop owner of Mansa sarees.

He adds, ''People who are passing by our store are also looking at these sarees with much astonishment as they have not seen anything like this before. Curious customers are buying sarees of their choice as they are available at very affordable ranges. We have the same symbol sarees in different patterns, designs and colours, so a lot of variety is on offer.''

A customer, Shrishti Jha who was caught in a surprise said, ''Fashion is synonymous with fashion. Our political leaders are fashion icons at the same time. The beauty of democracy is that we can openly flaunt our party affiliation. We can wear the saree of our own choice and support the party we wish to vote for this election.''

The shop owner further added that sarees begin at Rs 1200 and goes up to higher ranges. ''We have received a great response so far. Not just the candidates or party supporters are buying these sarees, but a lot of general public are buying them. If someone comes up with their own design, we can customize the saree according to their choice,'' he said.

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata.

At a time when two arch rivals – Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) are fighting it out on the Bengal turf in the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, election-themed sarees have become a fad among women in Kolkata. Women are making a beeline at a store in the city’s largest shopping complexes – New Market to view and purchase sarees with political party symbols on it. These sarees have the TMC, BJP symbols digitally printed on it and come in several fabrics and patterns, designs. ''We always come up with something new on festivals. Be it Diwali or Holi, we come up with festival-themed sarees. Since the election is our biggest political festival, we thought why not come up with election-themed sarees,'' said the shop owner of Mansa sarees. He adds, ''People who are passing by our store are also looking at these sarees with much astonishment as they have not seen anything like this before. Curious customers are buying sarees of their choice as they are available at very affordable ranges. We have the same symbol sarees in different patterns, designs and colours, so a lot of variety is on offer.'' A customer, Shrishti Jha who was caught in a surprise said, ''Fashion is synonymous with fashion. Our political leaders are fashion icons at the same time. The beauty of democracy is that we can openly flaunt our party affiliation. We can wear the saree of our own choice and support the party we wish to vote for this election.'' The shop owner further added that sarees begin at Rs 1200 and goes up to higher ranges. ''We have received a great response so far. Not just the candidates or party supporters are buying these sarees, but a lot of general public are buying them. If someone comes up with their own design, we can customize the saree according to their choice,'' he said.

People make a beeline to buy TMC-BJP themed sarees in Kolkata

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others.

The BJP will fight the Lok Sabha polls beginning April 11 with its old ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).

Of the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, the BJP will fight on three seats -- Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur. The SAD will contest the remaining 10.

Polling in Punjab will be held in a single phase on May 19. The results will be announced on May 23.

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others.

Punjab BJP chief Shwait Malik Friday constituted a 15-member election committee for shortlisting names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Besides Malik, the committee also includes Union minister Vijay Sampla, party state general secretary Dinesh Kumar, national vice-president Avinash Rai Khanna, national secretary Tarun Chugh, former minister Madan Mohan Mittal and Kamal Sharma, among others. The BJP will fight the Lok Sabha polls beginning April 11 with its old ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Of the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, the BJP will fight on three seats -- Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur. The SAD will contest the remaining 10. Polling in Punjab will be held in a single phase on May 19. The results will be announced on May 23.

Punjab: BJP forms committee to shortlist candidates for Lok Sabha polls

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls.

"Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls," Cabral said in a press conference here.

Stating that his guidance is enough for the BJP, Cabral stated, “We know that the Chief Minister is not well. And with his blessing and guidance, we are all working... Tomorrow what we will do, is all under his guidance. Unfortunately, he is not active in the field. But he is actively guiding us in all directions. I think that is enough for us.”

Taking note of Parrikar's health, the Opposition had said earlier that Parrikar should honourably resign from the post due to his health issues.

Speaking to ANI, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and transgender activist Apsara Reddy said,&nbsp;"Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is suffering from advanced cancer should step down as an unhealthy chief minister cannot lead a healthy and happy state."

On March 3, Parrikar underwent a check-up at the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), and was later allowed to go home as his health condition is stable, said an official of the Chief Minister's Office.

The Chief Minister, who was diagnosed with a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai Delhi, and New York since February last year.

Last month, he was admitted to the state's Medical College for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Dispelling rumours about Parrikar's condition, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane had earlier said that the Chief Minister was doing well and his health condition was stable.

Parrikar, who has made public appearances, was seen wearing medical paraphernalia -- a nasogastric tube -- while attending a session of the Goa Assembly.

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls.

Goa Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Thursday said that ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls. "Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will continue to be the guiding force behind the Goa BJP’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly by-polls," Cabral said in a press conference here. Stating that his guidance is enough for the BJP, Cabral stated, “We know that the Chief Minister is not well. And with his blessing and guidance, we are all working... Tomorrow what we will do, is all under his guidance. Unfortunately, he is not active in the field. But he is actively guiding us in all directions. I think that is enough for us.” Taking note of Parrikar's health, the Opposition had said earlier that Parrikar should honourably resign from the post due to his health issues. Speaking to ANI, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and transgender activist Apsara Reddy said, "Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who is suffering from advanced cancer should step down as an unhealthy chief minister cannot lead a healthy and happy state." On March 3, Parrikar underwent a check-up at the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), and was later allowed to go home as his health condition is stable, said an official of the Chief Minister's Office. The Chief Minister, who was diagnosed with a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai Delhi, and New York since February last year. Last month, he was admitted to the state's Medical College for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Dispelling rumours about Parrikar's condition, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane had earlier said that the Chief Minister was doing well and his health condition was stable. Parrikar, who has made public appearances, was seen wearing medical paraphernalia -- a nasogastric tube -- while attending a session of the Goa Assembly.

Parrikar continues to be guiding force of BJP's poll campaign in Goa: State minister

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year.

With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly.

The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday.

Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time.

Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur.

Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday.

"I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons.

Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said.

Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets.

Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota).

The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that&nbsp;Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats&nbsp;in&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase.

The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency.

Telugu Desam Party late on Thursday night released a list of 126 candidates for the April 11 assembly elections, which includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu who will contest from Kuppam constituency while his son, IT Minister Nara Lokesh will fight from Mangalagiri constituency. At a late night press conference, the AP chief minister announced the list of candidates for the assembly election, which will be held simultaneously with the 17th Lok Sabha elections on April 11 this year. With the release of the list, the CM said TDP has launched its "Mission 150 Plus" to secure 150 seats in the 175-member Assembly. The party will also announce its list for the Lok Sabha polls on Friday. Naidu will contest from the Kuppam constituency in his native Chittoor district for the seventh time. Nara Lokesh will contest from Mangalagiri constituency in Amaravati while Tollywood actor and Lokesh's father-in-law, MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, will once again contest from his constituency Hindupur. Before commencing full swing campaign mode, Naidu will visit Chittoor and take the blessings of Lord Venkateswara atop the Tirumala Hills on Friday. "I'll go to Chittoor for Tirupati darshan tomorrow. I'll go to all the other districts to meet with party cadres. From March 20, we'll go in full swing campaign mode," Naidu told media persons. Naidu said he conducted surveys and took public opinion into consideration before selecting the candidates. "Most of the candidates got 86 per cent satisfaction feedback from the public," he said. Naidu said he had given the slogan "Your future our responsibility" and requested them to take responsibility and "vote for the TDP and give us clear mandate of 150 seats."18 of the 24 ministers in the Chandrababu's cabinet got tickets. Cabinet ministers who found place in the first 16 candidates are -- Bendalam Ashok (Ichapuram), Gouthu Sireesha (Palasa), Kinjarapu Atchem Naidu (Tekkali), Kalamata Venkataramana (Pathapatnam), Gunda Lakshmi Devi (Srikakulam), Kuna Ravi Kumar (Amudalavalasa), Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao (Etcherla), Baggu Ramanamurthy (Narsannapeta), Kondru Murali Mohan (Rajam), Janardhan Dhatraj (Kurupam), Bobbili Chiranjeevulu (Parvathipuram), R.P Banjdev (Salur), Sujayakrishna Rangarao (Bobbili), Kimidi Nagarjuna (Cheepurupalle), K.A Naidu (Gajapathinagaram) and Kolla Lalitha Kumari (S.Kota). The names of HRD minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Forests minister Sidda Raghavarao were not mentioned in the first list. However, it is being reported that Naidu has kept their names aside for the general elections. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Sunday in New Delhi announced the elections for the 175 Assembly seats and the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh will take place on April 11 in a single phase. The results of the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.

TDP announces 126 candidates for Assembly polls; Naidu, son Nara Lokesh to contest

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates.

The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District.

The other candidates include Dhanraj Haribhau Mahale from Dindori, Sameer Bhujbal from Nashik, Amol Kolhe from Shirur and Bajrang Sonavane from Beed parliamentary seat.

The party, on Thursday, announced the first list of 12 candidates including the daughter of Sharad Pawar Supriya Sule. In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Supriya won from Baramati seat which used to be Sharad Pawar’s bastion.

The other candidates including Sanjay Dina Patil from Mumbai North East, Anand Paranjpe from Thane, Rajendra Shingane from Buldhana, Sunil Tatkare from Raigad, Udayanraje Bhosale from Satara, Dhananjay Mahadik from Kolhapur, Gulabarao Deokar from Jalgaon, Rajesh Vitekar from Parbhani, and Babaji Balaram Patil from Kalyan parliamentary seat.

Mohammad Faizal is the NCP candidate for Lakshadeep constituency.

NCP has extended support to Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna chief Raju Shetti who is contesting from Hatkanangale. He won from the seat in the last election.

After the second list, the total number of declared candidates for the NCP has reached 17.

Pawar had announced that he will not contest the ensuing general elections. The party is contesting the polls in alliance with the Congress in Maharashtra where 48 LokSabha seats are at stake.

Election Commission of India had announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11.

The final phase of voting will take place on May 19 and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates. The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District.

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Friday released its second list of candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections comprising of five candidates. The party has fielded NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s grandson Parth Ajit Pawar from Maval constituency in Pune District. The other candidates include Dhanraj Haribhau Mahale from Dindori, Sameer Bhujbal from Nashik, Amol Kolhe from Shirur and Bajrang Sonavane from Beed parliamentary seat. The party, on Thursday, announced the first list of 12 candidates including the daughter of Sharad Pawar Supriya Sule. In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Supriya won from Baramati seat which used to be Sharad Pawar’s bastion. The other candidates including Sanjay Dina Patil from Mumbai North East, Anand Paranjpe from Thane, Rajendra Shingane from Buldhana, Sunil Tatkare from Raigad, Udayanraje Bhosale from Satara, Dhananjay Mahadik from Kolhapur, Gulabarao Deokar from Jalgaon, Rajesh Vitekar from Parbhani, and Babaji Balaram Patil from Kalyan parliamentary seat. Mohammad Faizal is the NCP candidate for Lakshadeep constituency. NCP has extended support to Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna chief Raju Shetti who is contesting from Hatkanangale. He won from the seat in the last election. After the second list, the total number of declared candidates for the NCP has reached 17. Pawar had announced that he will not contest the ensuing general elections. The party is contesting the polls in alliance with the Congress in Maharashtra where 48 LokSabha seats are at stake. Election Commission of India had announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11. The final phase of voting will take place on May 19 and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Lok Sabha Polls: NCP announces second list of candidates

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday.

While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency.

Even as the Left-Congress alliance is yet to be officially announced, the party has decided to not field candidates in four seats where Congress had won in the 2014 elections. These four seats are traditional Congress bastions – Malda Uttar, Malda Dakshin, Jangipur and Berhampur.

The 25 candidates whose names were announced today are :-

<ol>
	<li>Coochbehar – Gobind Ray</li>
	<li>Alipurduar – Mili Urao</li>
	<li>Jalpaiguri – Bhagirath Ray</li>
	<li>Raigunj – Md&nbsp;Salim</li>
	<li>Balurghat – Ronen Barman</li>
	<li>Murshidabad – Badrudozza Khan</li>
	<li>Ranaghat – Rama Biswas</li>
	<li>Bongaon – Alokesh Das</li>
	<li>Dum Dum – Nepal Chandra Bhattacharya</li>
	<li>Barasat – Haripad Biswas</li>
	<li>Basirhat – Pallab Sengupta</li>
	<li>Joynagar – Subhas Naskar</li>
	<li>Diamond Harbour – Dr&nbsp;Fuad Halim</li>
	<li>Jadavpur – Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya</li>
	<li>Kolkata South – Nandini Mukherjee</li>
	<li>Uluberia – Maksuda Khatun</li>
	<li>Hooghly – Pradip Saha</li>
	<li>Arambagh – Saktimohan Mullick</li>
	<li>Ghatal – Tapan Ganguly</li>
	<li>Mednipur – Biplab Bhatt</li>
	<li>Purulia – Bir Singh Mahato</li>
	<li>Bishnupur – Sunil Kha</li>
	<li>Burdwan Purba – Iswarchandra Das</li>
	<li>Burdwan Durgapur – Abhas Roy Chowdhuryt</li>
	<li>Birbhum – Dr&nbsp;Rezaul Karim</li>
</ol>

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday. While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency.

After several days of deliberations with the Congress, the Left Front announced the first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal on Friday. While the party had announced the names of two candidates from Raigunj and Murshidabad constituency, the party fielded their only two sitting MPs from Bengal – Md Salim from Raigunj and Badrudozza Khan from Murshidabad constituency. Even as the Left-Congress alliance is yet to be officially announced, the party has decided to not field candidates in four seats where Congress had won in the 2014 elections. These four seats are traditional Congress bastions – Malda Uttar, Malda Dakshin, Jangipur and Berhampur. The 25 candidates whose names were announced today are :- Coochbehar – Gobind Ray Alipurduar – Mili Urao Jalpaiguri – Bhagirath Ray Raigunj – Md Salim Balurghat – Ronen Barman Murshidabad – Badrudozza Khan Ranaghat – Rama Biswas Bongaon – Alokesh Das Dum Dum – Nepal Chandra Bhattacharya Barasat – Haripad Biswas Basirhat – Pallab Sengupta Joynagar – Subhas Naskar Diamond Harbour – Dr Fuad Halim Jadavpur – Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya Kolkata South – Nandini Mukherjee Uluberia – Maksuda Khatun Hooghly – Pradip Saha Arambagh – Saktimohan Mullick Ghatal – Tapan Ganguly Mednipur – Biplab Bhatt Purulia – Bir Singh Mahato Bishnupur – Sunil Kha Burdwan Purba – Iswarchandra Das Burdwan Durgapur – Abhas Roy Chowdhuryt Birbhum – Dr Rezaul Karim

Lok Sabha polls: Left Front announces first list of 25 candidates from West Bengal

Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are set to jointly kick-start their election campaign for ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a joint rally in Kolhapur on March 24, a &nbsp;joint statement released by both parties confirmed.

“The first joint rally of Shiv Sena-BJP will be held on March 24. There will be joint rally/ meetings of their party workers before that,” the statement said.

“The joint meetings with both parties’ workers are scheduled to take place on March 15, March 17 and March 18 at different locations.

These meetings will be addressed by the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray,” it said.

According to the information out, after the meetings with party workers, a big joint rally of senior leaders from both parties would be held in Kolhapur on March 24.

“A joint manifesto will be released soon. Dates for the grand joint meeting of Mumbai workers from both parties will be announced later,” the statement further said.

BJP-Shiv Sena had last month finalised a plan to contest the upcoming elections jointly. While BJP will contest on 25 seats, Shiv Sena will contest on 23 seats.

Although both the parties have been in alliance for past several decades, they broke up in 2014 for a brief time just before the legislative elections in Maharashtra.

BJP demanded a higher share of seats which Shiv Sena was not willing to concede.

Out of 288 legislative seats, BJP won 122 while Shiv Sena managed to win only 63 seats.

Shiv Sena later joined the government headed by BJP Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Even while being a part of the alliance, it repeatedly criticised the central and state government of which it was a part.

The two parties contested the 2014 Lok Sabha elections jointly and won a landslide victory.

Out of 48 seats, the BJP-Shiv Sena combined managed to win 41 seats.

Swabhimani Shetkari Saghtana (then in NDA) headed by Raju Shetti also won one seat.

This year, Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra are slated to take place in four phases. The results will be announced on May 23.

Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are set to jointly kick-start their election campaign for ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a joint rally in Kolhapur on March 24, a joint statement released by both parties confirmed.

Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are set to jointly kick-start their election campaign for ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a joint rally in Kolhapur on March 24, a joint statement released by both parties confirmed. “The first joint rally of Shiv Sena-BJP will be held on March 24. There will be joint rally/ meetings of their party workers before that,” the statement said. “The joint meetings with both parties’ workers are scheduled to take place on March 15, March 17 and March 18 at different locations. These meetings will be addressed by the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray,” it said. According to the information out, after the meetings with party workers, a big joint rally of senior leaders from both parties would be held in Kolhapur on March 24. “A joint manifesto will be released soon. Dates for the grand joint meeting of Mumbai workers from both parties will be announced later,” the statement further said. BJP-Shiv Sena had last month finalised a plan to contest the upcoming elections jointly. While BJP will contest on 25 seats, Shiv Sena will contest on 23 seats. Although both the parties have been in alliance for past several decades, they broke up in 2014 for a brief time just before the legislative elections in Maharashtra. BJP demanded a higher share of seats which Shiv Sena was not willing to concede. Out of 288 legislative seats, BJP won 122 while Shiv Sena managed to win only 63 seats. Shiv Sena later joined the government headed by BJP Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Even while being a part of the alliance, it repeatedly criticised the central and state government of which it was a part. The two parties contested the 2014 Lok Sabha elections jointly and won a landslide victory. Out of 48 seats, the BJP-Shiv Sena combined managed to win 41 seats. Swabhimani Shetkari Saghtana (then in NDA) headed by Raju Shetti also won one seat. This year, Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra are slated to take place in four phases. The results will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP-Shiv Sena to begin joint poll campaign from March 24

The DMK Friday announced the names of constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the party and its allies will field their candidates for the second phase of the general elections to be held on April 18.

There are 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and one in neighbouring Puducherry, voting for all of which will be held in a single phase.

DMK president M K Stalin released the list of constituencies allotted to the allies in presence of coalition leaders, including Tamil Nadu Congress chief K S Alagiri and MDMK's Vaiko, at the party headquarters here.

Stalin also named his party-led coalition the "Secular Progressive Alliance."

Addressing a press conference, Stalin said the DMK's 20 seats include Chennai (North), Chennai (South), Chennai (Central), Tuticorin and Pollachi.

Hoping to extend its 2016 electoral success to the parliamentary polls also, the main opposition party in Tamil Nadu opted to field its candidates in 20 seats across the state including the three in Chennai where it has a sizeable number of MLAs.

Pollachi, a relatively quiet town near Coimbatore, is in the news following a sexual harassment case which has created an outrage across the state.

The DMK's other seats are: Sriperumbudur, Kancheepuram (SC), Arakkonam,&nbsp;Vellore, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Salem, Nilgiris (SC), Dindigul, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Thenkasi (SC) and Tirunelveli.

The Congress, which has been allotted the lion's share of seats (10) among the allies, will contest from nine constituencies in Tamil Nadu, and the lone seat in Puducherry.

It will also field its nominees in Tiruvallore (SC), Krishnagiri, Karur, Theni, Virudunagar and Kanniyakumari, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli and Arani seats, Stalin said.

The CPI(M) has been allotted Coimbatore and Madurai seats, while the CPI will fight from Tirupur and Nagapattinam, a reserved constituency.

The pro-Dalit VCK has been given Villupuram and Chidambaram, both reserved segments. The Vaiko-led MDMK has been allotted the Erode constituency.

Recalling the seat-sharing agreement with Vaiko, the DMK chief said the MDMK will also be given a Rajya Sabha seat at an appropriate time.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and the Kongunadu Makkal Desia Katchi (KMDK) will field their nominees from Ramanathapuram and Namakkal, respectively, while the India Jananayaga Katchi (IJK) has been allotted Perambalur seats, he said.

Stalin said in the last couple of years, the coalition constituents had been taking forward various protests and struggles against the "follies" of the BJP-led government at the Centre and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu.

That friendship has now transformed into an alliance, he said, adding the coalition partners came together on ideology and the partnership was not based on any 'bargain.'

He claimed that the NDA in the state, headed by his party's archrival the AIADMK, will lose the polls and that coalition led by his party will secure a "grand victory."

To a question, he said the DMK's candidate list will be announced soon.

The DMK Friday announced the names of constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the party and its allies will field their candidates for the second phase of the general elections to be held on April 18.

The DMK Friday announced the names of constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the party and its allies will field their candidates for the second phase of the general elections to be held on April 18. There are 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and one in neighbouring Puducherry, voting for all of which will be held in a single phase. DMK president M K Stalin released the list of constituencies allotted to the allies in presence of coalition leaders, including Tamil Nadu Congress chief K S Alagiri and MDMK's Vaiko, at the party headquarters here. Stalin also named his party-led coalition the "Secular Progressive Alliance." Addressing a press conference, Stalin said the DMK's 20 seats include Chennai (North), Chennai (South), Chennai (Central), Tuticorin and Pollachi. Hoping to extend its 2016 electoral success to the parliamentary polls also, the main opposition party in Tamil Nadu opted to field its candidates in 20 seats across the state including the three in Chennai where it has a sizeable number of MLAs. Pollachi, a relatively quiet town near Coimbatore, is in the news following a sexual harassment case which has created an outrage across the state. The DMK's other seats are: Sriperumbudur, Kancheepuram (SC), Arakkonam, Vellore, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Salem, Nilgiris (SC), Dindigul, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Thenkasi (SC) and Tirunelveli. The Congress, which has been allotted the lion's share of seats (10) among the allies, will contest from nine constituencies in Tamil Nadu, and the lone seat in Puducherry. It will also field its nominees in Tiruvallore (SC), Krishnagiri, Karur, Theni, Virudunagar and Kanniyakumari, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli and Arani seats, Stalin said. The CPI(M) has been allotted Coimbatore and Madurai seats, while the CPI will fight from Tirupur and Nagapattinam, a reserved constituency. The pro-Dalit VCK has been given Villupuram and Chidambaram, both reserved segments. The Vaiko-led MDMK has been allotted the Erode constituency. Recalling the seat-sharing agreement with Vaiko, the DMK chief said the MDMK will also be given a Rajya Sabha seat at an appropriate time. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and the Kongunadu Makkal Desia Katchi (KMDK) will field their nominees from Ramanathapuram and Namakkal, respectively, while the India Jananayaga Katchi (IJK) has been allotted Perambalur seats, he said. Stalin said in the last couple of years, the coalition constituents had been taking forward various protests and struggles against the "follies" of the BJP-led government at the Centre and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu. That friendship has now transformed into an alliance, he said, adding the coalition partners came together on ideology and the partnership was not based on any 'bargain.' He claimed that the NDA in the state, headed by his party's archrival the AIADMK, will lose the polls and that coalition led by his party will secure a "grand victory." To a question, he said the DMK's candidate list will be announced soon.

Lok Sabha polls: DMK announces list of constituencies allotted to self, allies

The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, when its central election committee is scheduled to meet.

The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats.

The election for 543 parliamentary seats will be held in seven phases till May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party president Amit Shah and other top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will attend the central election committee meeting.

All 42 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will go to the polls in the first phase with a fraction of constituencies in many other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, also to witness polling on April 11.

The Assembly polls in Telangana and Odisha will be held simultaneously with the general election.

With Modi known for dropping a number of incumbents in order to beat the anti-incumbency factor, the saffron party has been abuzz with speculation over the fate of its sitting MPs.

It has sought feedback from a number of sources, including the public, and has also asked its MPs to furnish details of the works they have carried out as it finalises its candidates for the upcoming polls.&nbsp;

The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, when its central election committee is scheduled to meet. The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats.

The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, when its central election committee is scheduled to meet. The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats. The election for 543 parliamentary seats will be held in seven phases till May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party president Amit Shah and other top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will attend the central election committee meeting. All 42 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will go to the polls in the first phase with a fraction of constituencies in many other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, also to witness polling on April 11. The Assembly polls in Telangana and Odisha will be held simultaneously with the general election. With Modi known for dropping a number of incumbents in order to beat the anti-incumbency factor, the saffron party has been abuzz with speculation over the fate of its sitting MPs. It has sought feedback from a number of sources, including the public, and has also asked its MPs to furnish details of the works they have carried out as it finalises its candidates for the upcoming polls.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP likely to release first list of candidates on Saturday

&nbsp;Imagine a cricket match in which the fielding team gets a wicket off the very first ball - and that too a run-out because the two batsmen don't know how to run between the wickets.&nbsp;

That's what Delhi's political scene is looking like now. On the very first day after the Election Commission of India announced general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has found the going good in the capital city thanks to a poor understanding between its main rivals.

With Congress president Rahul Gandhi formally asking his party cadre to win all the seven Lok Sabha seats in the capital, a triangular fight between itself, the BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is confirmed to a point where I believe the lotus-wallahs have a clear upper hand for several reasons.&nbsp;

Unless there is some late change of mood, and a pinhole exists for a mutually agreeable arrangement as some reports speculate, the advantage is clearly with the BJP.

So what happened to the grand plan to unseat the BJP in a 'Mahagatbandhan' - a grand alliance? In Delhi at least, it has fallen a victim to narrow egos that do not sit easily with claims that Modi's defeat is so important that everyone else has to close ranks.&nbsp;

While you can apportion blame between both the Congress and AAP, the Congress must take a higher share because it had every reason to swallow a bit of its 133-year-old pride as modern India's oldest political grouping.

In Lucknow, they say the old nawabs were so courteous to each other that they would say 'pehle aap' (you first) repeatedly to the other when a horsecart arrived that the cart would leave without either of them. In Delhi, we have a 'pehle aap' culture of a different variety, with much the same result.

The Congress, it seems, wanted the AAP to make the first move in what might have been an alliance. 'Pehle AAP', it seemed to say. But the AAP went ahead and announced candidates for six seats in Delhi without much ado (If there were any backroom talks, we are not quite aware). For Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, putting the AAP first has become his own variant. 'Pehle AAP,' as it were.&nbsp;

The result of all this is a triangular contest in which the BJP is set to be the gainer. Given the fact that there is a widespread belief that Modi is the front-runner, but faces an anti-incumbency factor in which the BJP on its own may not get a clear majority in the Lok Sabha like it did last time, every seat counts for those who want to - or claim to want to - unseat him. With seven seats tilting towards the BJP, the grand alliance of the opposition has gotten off to a not-so-grand start in the national capital.

Even otherwise, the BJP is on strong ground in Delhi. With memories of the Pulwama attack in Kashmir and anti-terror airstrikes by the Indian Air Force in Pakistani territory fresh in public memory, Modi has already made national security a major poll plank. There is no state, I believe, that buys this plank more than Delhi. As the capital region, national issues are close to its heart. Delhi also is arguably the least affected by caste politics by Indian standards. Given the BJP's tendency to appeal above caste divides, that is another advantage for the BJP.

The Congress is a bruised party. Its own internal tensions between Delhi party leaders Sheila Dixit and Ajay Maken is part of the capital's political folklore. It does not help that the AAP is sitting in power in the local government and has been energetically working towards raising its profile. Its passion and energy can be seen everywhere as if it has put behind the bad vibes it acquired when senior leaders like Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav found themselves out of the group in an unseemly turn of events.

AAP has truly revolutionised education and healthcare in Delhi with visible administrative interventions by its government. Kejriwal and his deputy, Manish Sisodia, have also perfected the dubious art of hyping up achievements. I expect AAP to be BJP's main challenger because it also has built up considerable goodwill among teeming migrants from eastern UP and Bihar.

The Congress is no doubt strong in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, but it cannot expect a simple rebound vote to help it in Delhi, given AAP's inspired, though chequered, rule over the city. There are no rabbits that I can see coming out of Rahul Gandhi's magical hat.

At the national level, if the Lok Sabha break-up throws up a pleasant surprise for the opposition (which I do not rule out), Delhi's seats may turn up to be more crucial than it appears now. The Congress seems to want to brazen it out there despite the sensitivity of the situation. It seems to confuse memories of the past with the imperatives of the present.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/each-seat-matters-but-congress-aap-have-gifted-advantage-to-bjp-in-delhi-in-2019-lok-sabha-elections-2187208.html">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Imagine a cricket match in which the fielding team gets a wicket off the very first ball - and that too a run-out because the two batsmen don't know how to run between the wickets.

Imagine a cricket match in which the fielding team gets a wicket off the very first ball - and that too a run-out because the two batsmen don't know how to run between the wickets. That's what Delhi's political scene is looking like now. On the very first day after the Election Commission of India announced general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has found the going good in the capital city thanks to a poor understanding between its main rivals. With Congress president Rahul Gandhi formally asking his party cadre to win all the seven Lok Sabha seats in the capital, a triangular fight between itself, the BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is confirmed to a point where I believe the lotus-wallahs have a clear upper hand for several reasons. Unless there is some late change of mood, and a pinhole exists for a mutually agreeable arrangement as some reports speculate, the advantage is clearly with the BJP. So what happened to the grand plan to unseat the BJP in a 'Mahagatbandhan' - a grand alliance? In Delhi at least, it has fallen a victim to narrow egos that do not sit easily with claims that Modi's defeat is so important that everyone else has to close ranks. While you can apportion blame between both the Congress and AAP, the Congress must take a higher share because it had every reason to swallow a bit of its 133-year-old pride as modern India's oldest political grouping. In Lucknow, they say the old nawabs were so courteous to each other that they would say 'pehle aap' (you first) repeatedly to the other when a horsecart arrived that the cart would leave without either of them. In Delhi, we have a 'pehle aap' culture of a different variety, with much the same result. The Congress, it seems, wanted the AAP to make the first move in what might have been an alliance. 'Pehle AAP', it seemed to say. But the AAP went ahead and announced candidates for six seats in Delhi without much ado (If there were any backroom talks, we are not quite aware). For Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, putting the AAP first has become his own variant. 'Pehle AAP,' as it were. The result of all this is a triangular contest in which the BJP is set to be the gainer. Given the fact that there is a widespread belief that Modi is the front-runner, but faces an anti-incumbency factor in which the BJP on its own may not get a clear majority in the Lok Sabha like it did last time, every seat counts for those who want to - or claim to want to - unseat him. With seven seats tilting towards the BJP, the grand alliance of the opposition has gotten off to a not-so-grand start in the national capital. Even otherwise, the BJP is on strong ground in Delhi. With memories of the Pulwama attack in Kashmir and anti-terror airstrikes by the Indian Air Force in Pakistani territory fresh in public memory, Modi has already made national security a major poll plank. There is no state, I believe, that buys this plank more than Delhi. As the capital region, national issues are close to its heart. Delhi also is arguably the least affected by caste politics by Indian standards. Given the BJP's tendency to appeal above caste divides, that is another advantage for the BJP. The Congress is a bruised party. Its own internal tensions between Delhi party leaders Sheila Dixit and Ajay Maken is part of the capital's political folklore. It does not help that the AAP is sitting in power in the local government and has been energetically working towards raising its profile. Its passion and energy can be seen everywhere as if it has put behind the bad vibes it acquired when senior leaders like Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav found themselves out of the group in an unseemly turn of events. AAP has truly revolutionised education and healthcare in Delhi with visible administrative interventions by its government. Kejriwal and his deputy, Manish Sisodia, have also perfected the dubious art of hyping up achievements. I expect AAP to be BJP's main challenger because it also has built up considerable goodwill among teeming migrants from eastern UP and Bihar. The Congress is no doubt strong in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, but it cannot expect a simple rebound vote to help it in Delhi, given AAP's inspired, though chequered, rule over the city. There are no rabbits that I can see coming out of Rahul Gandhi's magical hat. At the national level, if the Lok Sabha break-up throws up a pleasant surprise for the opposition (which I do not rule out), Delhi's seats may turn up to be more crucial than it appears now. The Congress seems to want to brazen it out there despite the sensitivity of the situation. It seems to confuse memories of the past with the imperatives of the present. (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.)

2019 Lok Sabha elections: Congress and AAP have gifted advantage to BJP in Delhi

In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday.&nbsp;

'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,'&nbsp;he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday.&nbsp;

'The meeting was to discuss the poll strategy for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. We have decided on meeting and rallies of SP and BSP. We have also planned joint rallies,'&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alliance-with-bsp-rld-final-seat-sharing-no-problem-akhilesh-yadav-191195">SP-BSP are fighting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls in UP as allies</a>. As per the seat-sharing agreement, SP is contesting 37 seats and BSP 38.&nbsp;

Three seats have been left for the RLD — Mathura, Muzaffarpur, and Bagpat. Two seats — Rae Bareli and Amethi — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-kept-out-of-up-alliance-to-correct-poll-arithmetic-akhilesh-yadav-191942">have been left for the Congress</a>.&nbsp;

Exuding confidence, Yadav said that his party would now reach out to the people of the state, where Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases beginning April 11 to end on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Yadav said: “The Lok Sabha election dates have been declared. Every party is announcing its candidates. SP and BSP have also announced some candidates. It is the time to reach out to the people of the state.”&nbsp;

Attacking the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government, Akhilesh said: “The government has not achieved anything which was promised to the people to come to power. Where are laptops he was supposed to give? Where are jobs? And where is the share of farmers?” &nbsp;

Yadav, however, avoided questions on Congress general secretary and in-charge for the party`s east UP affairs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra meeting with Bhim army chief Chandrashekar Azad in a hospital in Meerut on Wednesday. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, NDA had won 73 seats from the state. SP had got just five seats, while BSP drew a blank.&nbsp;

In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday.

In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday. 'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,' he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday. 'The meeting was to discuss the poll strategy for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. We have decided on meeting and rallies of SP and BSP. We have also planned joint rallies,' he said. SP-BSP are fighting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls in UP as allies. As per the seat-sharing agreement, SP is contesting 37 seats and BSP 38. Three seats have been left for the RLD — Mathura, Muzaffarpur, and Bagpat. Two seats — Rae Bareli and Amethi — have been left for the Congress. Exuding confidence, Yadav said that his party would now reach out to the people of the state, where Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases beginning April 11 to end on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. Yadav said: “The Lok Sabha election dates have been declared. Every party is announcing its candidates. SP and BSP have also announced some candidates. It is the time to reach out to the people of the state.” Attacking the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government, Akhilesh said: “The government has not achieved anything which was promised to the people to come to power. Where are laptops he was supposed to give? Where are jobs? And where is the share of farmers?” Yadav, however, avoided questions on Congress general secretary and in-charge for the party`s east UP affairs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra meeting with Bhim army chief Chandrashekar Azad in a hospital in Meerut on Wednesday. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, NDA had won 73 seats from the state. SP had got just five seats, while BSP drew a blank.

Lok Sabha polls: SP & BSP will hold joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh, says Akhilesh

The Congress party has launched its pan-India campaign for the general elections by targetting the BJP and the Narendra Modi government by holding it responsible for all the problems of the country.

The ruling BJP has responded to the Congress attack by going on the offensive and questioning the Congress culture and pointing out how it has deviated from the path shown by Mahatma Gandhi and the freedom fighters who had sacrificed their all for the cause of the nation.

Addressing a Congress rally at Adalaj village of Gandhinagar district in Gujarat after a meeting of the Congress Working Committee on Tuesday, the newly appointed Congress National Congress general secretary of eastern UP, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, said that the government was not talking about the real issues while people were being divided and hatred was being spread. She also laid stress on the need for building awareness among the people. Equating awareness with patriotism, she said that if it is used as a weapon without harming anyone, the county will become strong.

On this occasion, Congress President Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Modi and the BJP led NDA Government at the Centre. He referred to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as Gabbar Singh Tax equating it with the brute character by the same name in Sholay, the much acclaimed and popular Bollywood blockbuster.

Blunting the Congress tirade against him and the BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been quick in going into the overdrive mode and calling upon influencers from all fields, including politics, industry, sports, films and other walks of life to take the lead in spreading voter awareness and value of high voting. He has expressed the hope that these elections would witness the highest ever turnout in the history of Indian elections!"

Paying tributes to Gandhi ji and all those who had marched with him to Dandi, PM Modi has shared his thoughts on the Dandi March – especially the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and his aversion to the Congress culture on his blog. Highlighting Mahatma Gandhi's concern for the poor, Modi has said that in all aspects of his government’s work, the guiding consideration is the welfare and progress of the deprived sections but sadly, the antithesis of Gandhian thought is the Congress culture.

Modi’s argument comes like a knockout punch vis-a-vis the main opposition when he says in a matter of fact manner: “Mahatma Gandhi was a firm believer in democracy. Ironically, Congress imposed Emergency and trampled over the democratic spirit. The Congress misused Article 356 several times. If they did not like a leader, that Government was dismissed. Always eager to promote dynastic culture, Congress has no regard for democratic values. Gandhi Ji had understood the Congress culture very well, which is why he wanted the Congress disbanded, especially after 1947.”

What Modi has pointed out on his blog is already a topic of discussion on social media and also in drawing room circles and among the commoners on the street. Modi’s stock has grown manifold particularly after the air strike against the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Pakistan in the wake of the Pulwama attack. The anti-terror operation inside Pakistani territory is being treated as a turning point in the war on terror and the Government of India’s strategy to handle the Kashmir crisis.

It’s advantage Modi and the BJP at this stage when campaigning is still picking up for the Lok Sabha elections, as the Congress refuses to come on the same page with the government of India on the crucial issue of terrorism and national security.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Congress party has launched its pan-India campaign for the general elections by targetting the BJP and the Narendra Modi government by holding it responsible for all the problems of the country.

The Congress party has launched its pan-India campaign for the general elections by targetting the BJP and the Narendra Modi government by holding it responsible for all the problems of the country. The ruling BJP has responded to the Congress attack by going on the offensive and questioning the Congress culture and pointing out how it has deviated from the path shown by Mahatma Gandhi and the freedom fighters who had sacrificed their all for the cause of the nation. Addressing a Congress rally at Adalaj village of Gandhinagar district in Gujarat after a meeting of the Congress Working Committee on Tuesday, the newly appointed Congress National Congress general secretary of eastern UP, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, said that the government was not talking about the real issues while people were being divided and hatred was being spread. She also laid stress on the need for building awareness among the people. Equating awareness with patriotism, she said that if it is used as a weapon without harming anyone, the county will become strong. On this occasion, Congress President Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Modi and the BJP led NDA Government at the Centre. He referred to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as Gabbar Singh Tax equating it with the brute character by the same name in Sholay, the much acclaimed and popular Bollywood blockbuster. Blunting the Congress tirade against him and the BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been quick in going into the overdrive mode and calling upon influencers from all fields, including politics, industry, sports, films and other walks of life to take the lead in spreading voter awareness and value of high voting. He has expressed the hope that these elections would witness the highest ever turnout in the history of Indian elections!" Paying tributes to Gandhi ji and all those who had marched with him to Dandi, PM Modi has shared his thoughts on the Dandi March – especially the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and his aversion to the Congress culture on his blog. Highlighting Mahatma Gandhi's concern for the poor, Modi has said that in all aspects of his government’s work, the guiding consideration is the welfare and progress of the deprived sections but sadly, the antithesis of Gandhian thought is the Congress culture. Modi’s argument comes like a knockout punch vis-a-vis the main opposition when he says in a matter of fact manner: “Mahatma Gandhi was a firm believer in democracy. Ironically, Congress imposed Emergency and trampled over the democratic spirit. The Congress misused Article 356 several times. If they did not like a leader, that Government was dismissed. Always eager to promote dynastic culture, Congress has no regard for democratic values. Gandhi Ji had understood the Congress culture very well, which is why he wanted the Congress disbanded, especially after 1947.” What Modi has pointed out on his blog is already a topic of discussion on social media and also in drawing room circles and among the commoners on the street. Modi’s stock has grown manifold particularly after the air strike against the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Pakistan in the wake of the Pulwama attack. The anti-terror operation inside Pakistani territory is being treated as a turning point in the war on terror and the Government of India’s strategy to handle the Kashmir crisis. It’s advantage Modi and the BJP at this stage when campaigning is still picking up for the Lok Sabha elections, as the Congress refuses to come on the same page with the government of India on the crucial issue of terrorism and national security. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

On the issues of ideology and national security, it’s advantage Narendra Modi and BJP all the way

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra officially started her career in active politics in February 2019, just a few months before general elections. Congress president Rahul Gandhi introduced her as general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. But the question is: Will she be a lucky charm for Congress in Uttar Pradesh?

Priyanka Gandhi is very famous in Amethi and Rae Bareli; she had campaigned during the 2009 and 2014 Lok Sabha polls and Congress had won both the seats.

The eastern part of Uttar Pradesh accounts for 42 Lok Sabha seats from the sub-regions of Avadh and Purvanchal. In 2009, Congress won 21 seats in Uttar Pradesh and 15 of them were from east UP. In 2014, the tally was reduced to just two. So, Priyanka has a tough job at hand, especially because the region also includes Gorakhpur and Varanasi - the strongholds of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, respectively.

The 2014 Lok Sabha polls saw Congress getting 10 per cent of vote share in east Uttar Pradesh and winning just two seats - it's the pocket borough of Amethi and Rae Bareli.

Even if Congress's gamble pays off and Priyanka factor works for the party, it is not going to give a boost to the number of seats it won in last Lok Sabha elections. The reason is coming together of Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). With the SP-BSP combine at play in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, going by the last vote share, the BJP and its alliance partners are likely to get 37 seats, the SP, BSP and RLD 41, and Congress will remain at two.

If Congress gets two per cent more vote share and the SP-BSP combine loses out its two per cent, it will not translate into a seat for the INC. In fact, the SP-BSP loss is likely to benefit the BJP which can get 44 seats.

If there is a gain of three per cent to Congress and loss of three per cent to SP-BSP alliance, the beneficiary again will be BJP. This will increase its seats from 37 to 46 seats, SP-BSP alliance will get 33, and INC two.

The only scenario which can work for Congress is if Priyanka is able to garner 10 per cent more votes for the party. The Congress will then get four seats, but after coming together of SP and BSP, an upward swing of 10 per cent in favour of Congress looks nearly impossible.

If we look at the past, Priyanka had promised her mother Sonia Gandhi during the 2012 assembly election a perfect 10 in Rae Bareli and Amethi (both have five assembly constituencies each). But the party couldn't even win a single seat in Amethi.

Adding to the pressure is the SP-BSP alliance. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, even though SP won just five seats and BSP failed to win a single seat, their combined vote share of 42.12 per cent was almost equal to 42.63 per cent of BJP which won 71 seats.

The political arithmetic, caste politics and alliance challenges make the going tough for Priyanka. The Congress is banking on her charisma to revive its fortunes in Uttar Pradesh. The poll bugle has been sounded, now it remains to be seen how she tackles the tough battle of eastern UP. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra officially started her career in active politics in February 2019, just a few months before general elections.

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra officially started her career in active politics in February 2019, just a few months before general elections. Congress president Rahul Gandhi introduced her as general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. But the question is: Will she be a lucky charm for Congress in Uttar Pradesh? Priyanka Gandhi is very famous in Amethi and Rae Bareli; she had campaigned during the 2009 and 2014 Lok Sabha polls and Congress had won both the seats. The eastern part of Uttar Pradesh accounts for 42 Lok Sabha seats from the sub-regions of Avadh and Purvanchal. In 2009, Congress won 21 seats in Uttar Pradesh and 15 of them were from east UP. In 2014, the tally was reduced to just two. So, Priyanka has a tough job at hand, especially because the region also includes Gorakhpur and Varanasi - the strongholds of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, respectively. The 2014 Lok Sabha polls saw Congress getting 10 per cent of vote share in east Uttar Pradesh and winning just two seats - it's the pocket borough of Amethi and Rae Bareli. Even if Congress's gamble pays off and Priyanka factor works for the party, it is not going to give a boost to the number of seats it won in last Lok Sabha elections. The reason is coming together of Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). With the SP-BSP combine at play in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, going by the last vote share, the BJP and its alliance partners are likely to get 37 seats, the SP, BSP and RLD 41, and Congress will remain at two. If Congress gets two per cent more vote share and the SP-BSP combine loses out its two per cent, it will not translate into a seat for the INC. In fact, the SP-BSP loss is likely to benefit the BJP which can get 44 seats. If there is a gain of three per cent to Congress and loss of three per cent to SP-BSP alliance, the beneficiary again will be BJP. This will increase its seats from 37 to 46 seats, SP-BSP alliance will get 33, and INC two. The only scenario which can work for Congress is if Priyanka is able to garner 10 per cent more votes for the party. The Congress will then get four seats, but after coming together of SP and BSP, an upward swing of 10 per cent in favour of Congress looks nearly impossible. If we look at the past, Priyanka had promised her mother Sonia Gandhi during the 2012 assembly election a perfect 10 in Rae Bareli and Amethi (both have five assembly constituencies each). But the party couldn't even win a single seat in Amethi. Adding to the pressure is the SP-BSP alliance. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, even though SP won just five seats and BSP failed to win a single seat, their combined vote share of 42.12 per cent was almost equal to 42.63 per cent of BJP which won 71 seats. The political arithmetic, caste politics and alliance challenges make the going tough for Priyanka. The Congress is banking on her charisma to revive its fortunes in Uttar Pradesh. The poll bugle has been sounded, now it remains to be seen how she tackles the tough battle of eastern UP. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha polls: Analysing the battle of east UP and the Priyanka factor

The Samajwadi Party Tuesday declared two more candidates for the coming Lok Sabha polls.

Ramji Lal Suman will be the party's candidate from Hathras (reserved) seat and Rajendra S Bind will be the party's nominee from Mirzapur seat, according to an official release issued here.

Earlier, the SP had declared candidates on nine seats in the state, including party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from Mainpuri, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav from Kannauj and MPs Dharmendra Yadav and Akshay Yadav from Badaun and Firozabad, respectively.

The other SP candidates are Kamlesh Katheria from Etawah, Bhailal Kol from Robertsganj and Shabbir Valmiki from Bahraich.&nbsp;

The Samajwadi Party Tuesday declared two more candidates for the coming Lok Sabha polls. Ramji Lal Suman will be the party's candidate from Hathras (reserved) seat and Rajendra S Bind will be the party's nominee from Mirzapur seat, according to an official release issued here.

The Samajwadi Party Tuesday declared two more candidates for the coming Lok Sabha polls. Ramji Lal Suman will be the party's candidate from Hathras (reserved) seat and Rajendra S Bind will be the party's nominee from Mirzapur seat, according to an official release issued here. Earlier, the SP had declared candidates on nine seats in the state, including party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from Mainpuri, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav from Kannauj and MPs Dharmendra Yadav and Akshay Yadav from Badaun and Firozabad, respectively. The other SP candidates are Kamlesh Katheria from Etawah, Bhailal Kol from Robertsganj and Shabbir Valmiki from Bahraich.

Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party declares two more candidates

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/country-built-on-love-harmony-brotherhood-priyanka-gandhi-at-her-first-rally-202902">Country</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/country-built-on-love-harmony-brotherhood-priyanka-gandhi-at-her-first-rally-202902"> built on love, harmony &amp; brotherhood: Priyanka Gandhi at her first rally&nbsp;</a>

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood." She added that "today, whatever is happening in the country is very sad."&nbsp;

The rally is being seen as the Congress kicking off its campaign for the general elections which will be held from April 11 to May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-i-reiterate-bsp-will-not-have-any-alliance-with-congress-says-mayawati-202862">Lok Sabha polls: No 'grand alliance' in Uttar Pradesh as Mayawati rules out </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-i-reiterate-bsp-will-not-have-any-alliance-with-congress-says-mayawati-202862">tie-up</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-i-reiterate-bsp-will-not-have-any-alliance-with-congress-says-mayawati-202862"> with Congress in any state</a>

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Tuesday reiterated that her party will "not have any alliance with Congress party in any state". Her remarks came just a couple of days after the Election Commission of India announced dates for the Lok Sabha polls next month.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
"It has been reiterated once again that Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) will not have any alliance with Congress party in any state, to contest the upcoming elections," Mayawati said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-should-not-be-impeached-unless-reasons-are-overwhelming-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-202904">Trump should not be impeached unless reasons are 'overwhelming': Nancy Pelosi</a>

US President Donald Trump should not be impeached unless the reasons are overwhelming and bipartisan, given how divisive it would be for the country, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a Washington Post interview published on Monday.

"I’m not for impeachment," Pelosi, the top US Democrat, said in the interview, which was conducted last week.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/consumer-inflation-rises-to-257-in-february-government-data-202903">Retail inflation up to 2.57% in February: Government data</a>

Consumer inflation in the month of February rose to 2.57 per cent, government data revealed on Tuesday. Consumer inflation was revised to 1.97 per cent in January this year from 2.05 per cent.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-new-york-times-faces-backlash-for-missplelling-pm-modis-name-calling-pulwama-terror-attack-an-explosion-202885">New York Times faces backlash for calling Pulwama terror attack an 'explosion', misspelling PM Modi's name</a>

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion".&nbsp;

The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi".&nbsp;

Country built on love, harmony & brotherhood: Priyanka Gandhi at her first rally Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood.

Country built on love, harmony & brotherhood: Priyanka Gandhi at her first rally Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood." She added that "today, whatever is happening in the country is very sad." The rally is being seen as the Congress kicking off its campaign for the general elections which will be held from April 11 to May 19. The results will be declared on May 23. Lok Sabha polls: No 'grand alliance' in Uttar Pradesh as Mayawati rules out tie-up with Congress in any state Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Tuesday reiterated that her party will "not have any alliance with Congress party in any state". Her remarks came just a couple of days after the Election Commission of India announced dates for the Lok Sabha polls next month. "It has been reiterated once again that Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) will not have any alliance with Congress party in any state, to contest the upcoming elections," Mayawati said. Trump should not be impeached unless reasons are 'overwhelming': Nancy Pelosi US President Donald Trump should not be impeached unless the reasons are overwhelming and bipartisan, given how divisive it would be for the country, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a Washington Post interview published on Monday. "I’m not for impeachment," Pelosi, the top US Democrat, said in the interview, which was conducted last week. Retail inflation up to 2.57% in February: Government data Consumer inflation in the month of February rose to 2.57 per cent, government data revealed on Tuesday. Consumer inflation was revised to 1.97 per cent in January this year from 2.05 per cent. New York Times faces backlash for calling Pulwama terror attack an 'explosion', misspelling PM Modi's name The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion". The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi".

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/with-congress-in-a-shambles-in-up-a-long-and-hard-road-for-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-196746">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a>, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood." She added that "today, whatever is happening in the country is very sad."&nbsp;

The rally is being seen as the Congress kicking off its campaign for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-i-reiterate-bsp-will-not-have-any-alliance-with-congress-says-mayawati-202862">the general elections</a> which will be held from April 11 to May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

"Our institutions are being destroyed," said Priyanka. "Wherever you see, hatred is being spread."&nbsp;

Priyanka, in her address, tried to keep the focus on what might be called pre-February 26 (the date of the Indian Air Force's air strike&nbsp; on&nbsp;the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote) issues.&nbsp;

"Issues which should be raised must comprise as to what is most important for you and how can you move forward. How will youth get jobs? How will women feel safe? What will be done for farmers?&nbsp;

"These are the issues for elections," said Priyanka.&nbsp;

A number of polls and pollsters of course have said support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi has risen since the air strike.&nbsp;

"Nothing matters more to us that you and I protect this nation, work for it and move forward together," Priyanka said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi was also present at the rally but WION's political editor Kartikeya Sharma said it was Priyanka who "stole the show".&nbsp;

"Her speech, in which she attacked Prime Minister Modi, was well received by the people," he added.&nbsp;

"Her choice of words was good... she'll be the one to get the headlines."&nbsp;

Also present at the Congress rally was Patidar leader Hardik Patel who joined the party on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Gandhinagar, Gujarat: First time in history, 4 Supreme Court judges went to press &amp; said they are not allowed to work. Generally, people go to SC for justice but in today’s Hindustan, SC judges are going to public &amp; asking for justice. <a href="https://t.co/8sLPUFQJmS">pic.twitter.com/8sLPUFQJmS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105425205889982464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Gujarat: Visuals from the public rally of Congress party in Gandhinagar. <a href="https://t.co/rmA6iNh244">pic.twitter.com/rmA6iNh244</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105426450734182408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The upcoming general election will pit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance against (mostly) different opposition groupings in various states, including of the Congress, Left and regional forces who are continuing to work out a grand alliance (mahagatbandhan) to minimise a division of votes between them which would work in favour of the Modi government.

The BJP has worked out a seat-sharing formula with some new allies and several old partners by making concessions in states like Bihar. The opposition parties however are yet to do so in several states.

The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held over seven phases.&nbsp;The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23.&nbsp;

Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said on Sunday while announcing the dates for the elections.&nbsp;

He added that 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, that 10 lakh&nbsp;polling stations would be set up, and that VVPAT (voter verifiable paper audit trail) machines would be used in all the stations. The VVPAT machines are used to detect election fraud.&nbsp;

Arora added that the Election Commission's code of conduct would apply to social media, that all political advertisements on social media will need pre-certification and that all candidates for the elections will have to give the details of their social media accounts to the commission.

(With inputs from PTI)

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was recently made Congress general secretary of eastern Uttar Pradesh, addressed her first rally today in Gujarat's Gandhinagar where she said "this country is made on the foundations of love, harmony and brotherhood." She added that "today, whatever is happening in the country is very sad." The rally is being seen as the Congress kicking off its campaign for the general elections which will be held from April 11 to May 19. The results will be declared on May 23. "Our institutions are being destroyed," said Priyanka. "Wherever you see, hatred is being spread." Priyanka, in her address, tried to keep the focus on what might be called pre-February 26 (the date of the Indian Air Force's air strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote) issues. "Issues which should be raised must comprise as to what is most important for you and how can you move forward. How will youth get jobs? How will women feel safe? What will be done for farmers? "These are the issues for elections," said Priyanka. A number of polls and pollsters of course have said support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi has risen since the air strike. "Nothing matters more to us that you and I protect this nation, work for it and move forward together," Priyanka said on Tuesday. Congress president Rahul Gandhi was also present at the rally but WION's political editor Kartikeya Sharma said it was Priyanka who "stole the show". "Her speech, in which she attacked Prime Minister Modi, was well received by the people," he added. "Her choice of words was good... she'll be the one to get the headlines." Also present at the Congress rally was Patidar leader Hardik Patel who joined the party on Wednesday. Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Gandhinagar, Gujarat: First time in history, 4 Supreme Court judges went to press & said they are not allowed to work. Generally, people go to SC for justice but in today’s Hindustan, SC judges are going to public & asking for justice. pic.twitter.com/8sLPUFQJmS — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2019 × Gujarat: Visuals from the public rally of Congress party in Gandhinagar. pic.twitter.com/rmA6iNh244 — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2019 × The upcoming general election will pit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance against (mostly) different opposition groupings in various states, including of the Congress, Left and regional forces who are continuing to work out a grand alliance (mahagatbandhan) to minimise a division of votes between them which would work in favour of the Modi government. The BJP has worked out a seat-sharing formula with some new allies and several old partners by making concessions in states like Bihar. The opposition parties however are yet to do so in several states. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held over seven phases. The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23. Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said on Sunday while announcing the dates for the elections. He added that 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, that 10 lakh polling stations would be set up, and that VVPAT (voter verifiable paper audit trail) machines would be used in all the stations. The VVPAT machines are used to detect election fraud. Arora added that the Election Commission's code of conduct would apply to social media, that all political advertisements on social media will need pre-certification and that all candidates for the elections will have to give the details of their social media accounts to the commission. (With inputs from PTI)

Country built on love, harmony & brotherhood: Priyanka Gandhi at her first rally 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday announced a list of TMC candidates for all the 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state, dropping 10 sitting MPs.

She also attacked the BJP and the Modi government, claiming she had information that "VVIPs" were using helicopters and chartered flights to transport money to bribe voters.&nbsp;

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Trinamool Congress (TMC) releases list of 42 candidates contesting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/ut1sCReYQB">pic.twitter.com/ut1sCReYQB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105441978802593794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Releasing the list, the West Bengal leader assailed the Centre over a host of issues including the Rafale deal, farm distress and shrinking employment opportunities.

Banerjee, also the TMC supremo, said the outgoing TMC lawmakers whose names do not figure in the list will be drafted for party work.

She said 41 per cent of the nominees in the list are women.

The TMC, she said, will also contest some seats in Odisha, Assam, Jharkhand, Bihar and the Andamans.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday announced a list of TMC candidates for all the 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state, dropping 10 sitting MPs. She also attacked the BJP and the Modi government, claiming she had information that "VVIPs" were using helicopters and chartered flights to transport money to bribe voters.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday announced a list of TMC candidates for all the 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state, dropping 10 sitting MPs. She also attacked the BJP and the Modi government, claiming she had information that "VVIPs" were using helicopters and chartered flights to transport money to bribe voters. Trinamool Congress (TMC) releases list of 42 candidates contesting #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/ut1sCReYQB — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2019 × Releasing the list, the West Bengal leader assailed the Centre over a host of issues including the Rafale deal, farm distress and shrinking employment opportunities. Banerjee, also the TMC supremo, said the outgoing TMC lawmakers whose names do not figure in the list will be drafted for party work. She said 41 per cent of the nominees in the list are women. The TMC, she said, will also contest some seats in Odisha, Assam, Jharkhand, Bihar and the Andamans.

Lok Sabha polls: Mamata releases TMC list for all 42 West Bengal seats

Ruling out any alliance with the Congress, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Tuesday announced that his party will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls on its own and hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not fulfilling BJP's electoral promise of granting full statehood to Delhi.&nbsp;

Asserting that the upcoming polls will be fought on the issue of full statehood, Kejriwal criticised Modi for not fulfilling this promise as mentioned in BJP's 2014 manifesto.&nbsp;"It amounts to cheating. They [BJP] should come clean," Kejriwal said.

"The ongoing general elections are also a part of the mass movement for full statehood for Delhi. BJP had no intention of giving Delhi full statehood. Prime Minister Modi needs to give an explanation as to why he did not fulfil his promise," the chief minister said, adding that his party plans to go full throttle over this issue in the coming days.&nbsp;

Kejriwal claimed that both Congress and BJP are against granting full statehood to Delhi.&nbsp;

Addressing the media from the AAP's new headquarters at ITO, Kejriwal said his party will be fighting the Lok Sabha elections on the issue of full statehood for Delhi as it (national capital) has been suffering because of it.&nbsp;

On being asked about its alliance partners, the chief minister said, "We are not in talks with the Congress over the alliance. We will be fighting the elections on our own."&nbsp;

"We are hearing statements from Congress that it would not enter into an alliance with AAP. But according to our internal surveys, AAP will be winning with a heavy majority on all seven seats and there are four reasons for it," he said.

Listing out the reasons, he said firstly, it is because of the work done by the Delhi government. Secondly, people in Delhi are very eager to see Delhi get full statehood and they can see that AAP is serious about it, he said.&nbsp;

Thirdly, according to AAP's survey, 56 per cent of the people believe that the conduct of the BJP in the conflict between India and Pakistan has portrayed the party in a "negative" light, he said.&nbsp;

"The fourth reason is how the Congress did not put the country first and refused to form an alliance. Therefore Hindus were anyway not going to vote for Congress. Muslims had some doubts but now even they have come in favour of the AAP," he said.&nbsp;

Observing that even without an alliance, AAP is winning, he, however, said his party has no indication from the Congress on an alliance.

The ruling AAP has declared names of candidates on six of the seven seats in Delhi.&nbsp;

A senior AAP leader said the name of the seventh candidate for the West Delhi seat would be announced only after BJP and Congress declare the names of their candidates for Delhi.

AAP's Atishi will contest from East Delhi, Guggan Singh from North-West Delhi, Raghav Chadha from South, Dilip Pandey from North-East, Pankaj Gupta from Chandni Chowk and Brijesh Goyal will contest from New Delhi seats.&nbsp;

The party launched its mega poll campaign, centred around full statehood for Delhi on Sunday.

Party volunteers will also distribute Kejriwal's letter to doorsteps of the voters during the campaign. The letter will elaborate on the benefits Delhiites will have if full statehood is granted.

Elections to the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will be held on May 12.&nbsp;

"The upcoming Lok Sabha elections are extremely important for the people of Delhi. In all the Lok Sabha elections, the people in Delhi used to vote to elect a prime minister but this time people have decided that would vote for full statehood of Delhi," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

The chief minister said once Delhi attains full statehood, AAP will ensure that women can roam freely even at night while adding that his party will also provide 85 per cent reservations in jobs and colleges.

Kejriwal also referred to the sealing of shops which took place earlier this year and said, the party would have halted sealing within five minutes.&nbsp;

"We would have regularised contractual employees," he said.&nbsp;

Ruling out any alliance with the Congress, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Tuesday announced that his party will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls on its own and hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not fulfilling BJP's electoral promise of granting full statehood to Delhi.

Ruling out any alliance with the Congress, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Tuesday announced that his party will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls on its own and hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not fulfilling BJP's electoral promise of granting full statehood to Delhi. Asserting that the upcoming polls will be fought on the issue of full statehood, Kejriwal criticised Modi for not fulfilling this promise as mentioned in BJP's 2014 manifesto. "It amounts to cheating. They [BJP] should come clean," Kejriwal said. "The ongoing general elections are also a part of the mass movement for full statehood for Delhi. BJP had no intention of giving Delhi full statehood. Prime Minister Modi needs to give an explanation as to why he did not fulfil his promise," the chief minister said, adding that his party plans to go full throttle over this issue in the coming days. Kejriwal claimed that both Congress and BJP are against granting full statehood to Delhi. Addressing the media from the AAP's new headquarters at ITO, Kejriwal said his party will be fighting the Lok Sabha elections on the issue of full statehood for Delhi as it (national capital) has been suffering because of it. On being asked about its alliance partners, the chief minister said, "We are not in talks with the Congress over the alliance. We will be fighting the elections on our own." "We are hearing statements from Congress that it would not enter into an alliance with AAP. But according to our internal surveys, AAP will be winning with a heavy majority on all seven seats and there are four reasons for it," he said. Listing out the reasons, he said firstly, it is because of the work done by the Delhi government. Secondly, people in Delhi are very eager to see Delhi get full statehood and they can see that AAP is serious about it, he said. Thirdly, according to AAP's survey, 56 per cent of the people believe that the conduct of the BJP in the conflict between India and Pakistan has portrayed the party in a "negative" light, he said. "The fourth reason is how the Congress did not put the country first and refused to form an alliance. Therefore Hindus were anyway not going to vote for Congress. Muslims had some doubts but now even they have come in favour of the AAP," he said. Observing that even without an alliance, AAP is winning, he, however, said his party has no indication from the Congress on an alliance. The ruling AAP has declared names of candidates on six of the seven seats in Delhi. A senior AAP leader said the name of the seventh candidate for the West Delhi seat would be announced only after BJP and Congress declare the names of their candidates for Delhi. AAP's Atishi will contest from East Delhi, Guggan Singh from North-West Delhi, Raghav Chadha from South, Dilip Pandey from North-East, Pankaj Gupta from Chandni Chowk and Brijesh Goyal will contest from New Delhi seats. The party launched its mega poll campaign, centred around full statehood for Delhi on Sunday. Party volunteers will also distribute Kejriwal's letter to doorsteps of the voters during the campaign. The letter will elaborate on the benefits Delhiites will have if full statehood is granted. Elections to the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will be held on May 12. "The upcoming Lok Sabha elections are extremely important for the people of Delhi. In all the Lok Sabha elections, the people in Delhi used to vote to elect a prime minister but this time people have decided that would vote for full statehood of Delhi," Kejriwal said. The chief minister said once Delhi attains full statehood, AAP will ensure that women can roam freely even at night while adding that his party will also provide 85 per cent reservations in jobs and colleges. Kejriwal also referred to the sealing of shops which took place earlier this year and said, the party would have halted sealing within five minutes. "We would have regularised contractual employees," he said.

AAP will fight and win Lok Sabha polls on its own: Kejriwal

2019 Lok Sabha polls: Social media dos and don'ts for parties, candidates