The Sensex was up by 338.65 points or 0.87 per cent to 39,448.86 after its surpassed the 40,000 mark within minutes into Friday`s trade.

"Indian equity market as expected touched the historic figure of 12,041 and made a new all-time high. Markets seem to have discounted the magical mandate in favour of BJP. At the same time, we see there is some profit booking that is coming in at higher levels," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research.

It touched an intra-day and lifetime high of 40,124.96 and a low of 39,216.90. The Nifty too, was just 111.65 points or 0.95 per cent up at 11,849.55.

However, the movement in the broader markets was tipid. The S&amp;P BSE Mid-Caps was up 0.76 per cent while the small caps were 0.46 per cent up.

"Broader market health is improving but we are seeing lack of momentum and hence expecting consolidation in the near term," said Sahaj Agrawal, Head of Derivatives, Kotak Securities.

Proving exit polls right, the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appeared set to retain power as its candidates alone led in 294 of the 541 Lok Sabha seats with its allies faring equally well across the country, stunning the opposition.

The Sensex was up by 338.65 points or 0.87 per cent to 39,448.86 after its surpassed the 40,000 mark within minutes into Friday`s trade. "Indian equity market as expected touched the historic figure of 12,041 and made a new all-time high.

The Sensex was up by 338.65 points or 0.87 per cent to 39,448.86 after its surpassed the 40,000 mark within minutes into Friday`s trade. "Indian equity market as expected touched the historic figure of 12,041 and made a new all-time high. Markets seem to have discounted the magical mandate in favour of BJP. At the same time, we see there is some profit booking that is coming in at higher levels," said Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research. It touched an intra-day and lifetime high of 40,124.96 and a low of 39,216.90. The Nifty too, was just 111.65 points or 0.95 per cent up at 11,849.55. However, the movement in the broader markets was tipid. The S&P BSE Mid-Caps was up 0.76 per cent while the small caps were 0.46 per cent up. "Broader market health is improving but we are seeing lack of momentum and hence expecting consolidation in the near term," said Sahaj Agrawal, Head of Derivatives, Kotak Securities. Proving exit polls right, the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appeared set to retain power as its candidates alone led in 294 of the 541 Lok Sabha seats with its allies faring equally well across the country, stunning the opposition.

Markets retreat from historic highs

The BJP is maintaining a lead on the 10 out of total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh while the Congress is leading only in Bastar (ST) constituency, as per the trends available so far.

In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had bagged 10 seats and the Congress one.

The Congress had won the assembly elections late last year by dislodging the BJP from power.

In the trends available so far, state BJP vice president Sunil Soni is leading over his Congress opponent and Raipur Mayor Pramod Dubey by 1,57,292 votes in Raipur seat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">Get LIVE updates here.</a>

In Durg seat, BJP's Vijay Baghel is ahead of Congress nominee Pratima Chandrakar by 1,85,455 votes.

In Rajnandgaon seat, BJP's Santosh Pandey is leading over Congress rival Bholaram Sahu by 88,389 votes.

In Raigarh (ST) seat, BJP's Gomtee Sai was leading over Congress nominee Laljeet Singh Rathiya by 65,073 votes.

Watch:&nbsp;Vivek Oberoi speaks to WION about Modi biopic and general elections

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In Surguja (ST) seat, BJP's Renuka Singh is ahead of Congress' Khelsai Singh by 1,12,287 votes.

In Janjgir-Champa (SC) seat, BJP's Guharam Ajgalley is leading over Congress rival Ravi Bhardwaj by 48,666 votes.

In Korba, Congress' Jyotsana Mahant, wife of state Assembly Speaker Charandas Mahant, is trailing by 7,470 votes against BJP's Jyotinand Dubey.

In Kanker (ST) seat, BJP's Mohan Mandavi is ahead of Congress Biresh Thakur by 13,285 votes while in Bilaspur, BJP's Arun Sao is leading by 72,179 votes against Congress' Atal Shrivastav.

In Mahasamund seat, BJP's Chunnilal Sahu, who was initially trailing, has now taken a lead over Congress' Dhanendra Sahu by 18,286 votes.

The lone solace for the Congress seems to be Bastar (ST) seat, as far as trends are concerned, where its sitting MLA Dipak Baij is ahead of BJP's Baiduram Kashyap by 36,834 votes.&nbsp;

The BJP is maintaining a lead on the 10 out of total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh while the Congress is leading only in Bastar (ST) constituency, as per the trends available so far.

The BJP is maintaining a lead on the 10 out of total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh while the Congress is leading only in Bastar (ST) constituency, as per the trends available so far. In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had bagged 10 seats and the Congress one. The Congress had won the assembly elections late last year by dislodging the BJP from power. In the trends available so far, state BJP vice president Sunil Soni is leading over his Congress opponent and Raipur Mayor Pramod Dubey by 1,57,292 votes in Raipur seat. Get LIVE updates here. In Durg seat, BJP's Vijay Baghel is ahead of Congress nominee Pratima Chandrakar by 1,85,455 votes. In Rajnandgaon seat, BJP's Santosh Pandey is leading over Congress rival Bholaram Sahu by 88,389 votes. In Raigarh (ST) seat, BJP's Gomtee Sai was leading over Congress nominee Laljeet Singh Rathiya by 65,073 votes. Watch: Vivek Oberoi speaks to WION about Modi biopic and general elections In Surguja (ST) seat, BJP's Renuka Singh is ahead of Congress' Khelsai Singh by 1,12,287 votes. In Janjgir-Champa (SC) seat, BJP's Guharam Ajgalley is leading over Congress rival Ravi Bhardwaj by 48,666 votes. In Korba, Congress' Jyotsana Mahant, wife of state Assembly Speaker Charandas Mahant, is trailing by 7,470 votes against BJP's Jyotinand Dubey. In Kanker (ST) seat, BJP's Mohan Mandavi is ahead of Congress Biresh Thakur by 13,285 votes while in Bilaspur, BJP's Arun Sao is leading by 72,179 votes against Congress' Atal Shrivastav. In Mahasamund seat, BJP's Chunnilal Sahu, who was initially trailing, has now taken a lead over Congress' Dhanendra Sahu by 18,286 votes. The lone solace for the Congress seems to be Bastar (ST) seat, as far as trends are concerned, where its sitting MLA Dipak Baij is ahead of BJP's Baiduram Kashyap by 36,834 votes.

Lok Sabha election result 2019: BJP leads in 10 seats in Chhattisgarh

With Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) set for a resounding comeback, its parliamentary board will reportedly meet on May 26&nbsp;at the party headquarters.

Top party leaders, including BJP president Amit Shah and some senior Union ministers besides Modi, are members of the parliamentary board, its highest decision-making body.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">Get LIVE updates here.</a>

&nbsp;Modi is also expected to address party workers today at 5:30 pm.

Watch:&nbsp;BJP repeats 2014 stellar performance; Sweeps away all parties in nation

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According to trends released by the Election Commission for all 542 seats that went to polls BJP was set to return to power as it led in 292 seats while the Congress trailed far behind with 51.

If the trends stay until final results, the BJP would have improved on its 2014 performance when it had won 282 seats on its own in the 543-member Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Adding the seats won by its allies, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance could win 343 seats, up from 336 in 2014.&nbsp;

With Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) set for a resounding comeback, its parliamentary board will reportedly meet on May 26 at the party headquarters. Top party leaders, including BJP president Amit Shah and some senior Union ministers besides Modi, are members of the parliamentary board, its highest decision-making body.

With Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) set for a resounding comeback, its parliamentary board will reportedly meet on May 26 at the party headquarters. Top party leaders, including BJP president Amit Shah and some senior Union ministers besides Modi, are members of the parliamentary board, its highest decision-making body. Get LIVE updates here. Modi is also expected to address party workers today at 5:30 pm. Watch: BJP repeats 2014 stellar performance; Sweeps away all parties in nation According to trends released by the Election Commission for all 542 seats that went to polls BJP was set to return to power as it led in 292 seats while the Congress trailed far behind with 51. If the trends stay until final results, the BJP would have improved on its 2014 performance when it had won 282 seats on its own in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Adding the seats won by its allies, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance could win 343 seats, up from 336 in 2014.

With Modi set for comeback, BJP parliamentary board to meet on May 26

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday congratulated his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, as the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-bjp-leaders-react-to-landslide-win-of-pm-narendra-modi-220885"> BJP-led NDA government looks all set to form the government</a> for the second term at the Centre.&nbsp;

"Congratulations to @narendramodi on a magnificent victory! We look forward to working closely with you," Wickremesinghe tweeted.

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As counting of the ballots for 542 Lok Sabha seats for the world's largest democracy is underway, the BJP seems to lead with 348 seats while the Indian National Congress is placed second in the list with 90 seats, as per the official Election Commission trends.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also took Twitter to extend his congratulations to PM Modi on the outright majority.

"My friend @narendramodi warmly congratulate you on your impressive election victory! These electoral results once again prove your leadership in the world's largest democracy. &nbsp;We will continue to work together to strengthen the close friendship between India and Israel. Excellent", Netanyahu tweeted in Hebrew and Hindi.

In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had won 282 seats, 10 more than the halfway mark, on its own and crossed the 300-mark with its allies.

If the trends convert into seats, this would be the first time in more than 40 years in India that a party with a majority on its own will be coming back to power with a similar showing.

The Lok Sabha polls that commenced on April 11 and wrapped up on May 19, saw approximately 900 million voters exercising their right to franchise and deciding the fate of around 8,000 candidates across 542 seats in the country. Out of these candidates, 724 were women and four were transgenders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch:&nbsp;In conversation with Anupam Kher on Lok Sabha Election Results 2019

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&nbsp;

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday congratulated his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, as the BJP-led NDA government looks all set to form the government for the second term at the Centre.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday congratulated his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, as the BJP-led NDA government looks all set to form the government for the second term at the Centre. "Congratulations to @narendramodi on a magnificent victory! We look forward to working closely with you," Wickremesinghe tweeted. Congratulations to @narendramodi on a magnificent victory! We look forward to working closely with you. — Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) May 23, 2019 × As counting of the ballots for 542 Lok Sabha seats for the world's largest democracy is underway, the BJP seems to lead with 348 seats while the Indian National Congress is placed second in the list with 90 seats, as per the official Election Commission trends. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also took Twitter to extend his congratulations to PM Modi on the outright majority. "My friend @narendramodi warmly congratulate you on your impressive election victory! These electoral results once again prove your leadership in the world's largest democracy. We will continue to work together to strengthen the close friendship between India and Israel. Excellent", Netanyahu tweeted in Hebrew and Hindi. In the 2014 general elections, the BJP had won 282 seats, 10 more than the halfway mark, on its own and crossed the 300-mark with its allies. If the trends convert into seats, this would be the first time in more than 40 years in India that a party with a majority on its own will be coming back to power with a similar showing. The Lok Sabha polls that commenced on April 11 and wrapped up on May 19, saw approximately 900 million voters exercising their right to franchise and deciding the fate of around 8,000 candidates across 542 seats in the country. Out of these candidates, 724 were women and four were transgenders. (With inputs from agencies) Watch: In conversation with Anupam Kher on Lok Sabha Election Results 2019 ×

Lok Sabha election result 2019: Sri Lanka, Israeli Prime Ministers congratulate PM Modi on landslide win

The Congress Party, which won the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan in the assembly elections in December last year, is trailing in Lok Sabha polls in all the three states, as per official Election Commission trends.

In both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, Congress is leading on just one seat out of the total 25 and 29, respectively, while in Chhattisgarh, it is trailing on 9 seats out of the 11, according to the trends three hours after counting started at 8 am.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading on the remaining seats in the three states.

The trends come as a surprise, especially in Chhattisgarh, where Congress had won 68 seats out of the 90 in the assembly polls. The BJP, which had ruled the state for 15 years, managed to win only 15.

In Rajasthan, the Congress had won 99 seats out of the 200. One short of the majority, the party managed to form the government with the help of one seat won by its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). Lastly, in Madhya Pradesh, it had emerged as a leading party with 114 seats after a cliff hanger fight.

Trends indicate that Congress has failed to capitalise on the momentum it gained last year after winning the three Hindi-belt states, with BJP set to sweep all three.

Overall, BJP looks to settle with a comfortable majority with leads on over 290 seats, much ahead of the halfway mark. While the Congress is ahead on 51.

The Lok Sabha polls that commenced on April 11 and wrapped up on May 19, saw approximately 900 million voters exercising their franchise and deciding the fate of 7,928 candidates across 542 seats in the country. Out of those candidates, 724 were women and four were transgenders.

The Congress Party, which won the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan in the assembly elections in December last year, is trailing in Lok Sabha polls in all the three states, as per official Election Commission trends.

The Congress Party, which won the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan in the assembly elections in December last year, is trailing in Lok Sabha polls in all the three states, as per official Election Commission trends. In both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, Congress is leading on just one seat out of the total 25 and 29, respectively, while in Chhattisgarh, it is trailing on 9 seats out of the 11, according to the trends three hours after counting started at 8 am. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading on the remaining seats in the three states. The trends come as a surprise, especially in Chhattisgarh, where Congress had won 68 seats out of the 90 in the assembly polls. The BJP, which had ruled the state for 15 years, managed to win only 15. In Rajasthan, the Congress had won 99 seats out of the 200. One short of the majority, the party managed to form the government with the help of one seat won by its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). Lastly, in Madhya Pradesh, it had emerged as a leading party with 114 seats after a cliff hanger fight. Trends indicate that Congress has failed to capitalise on the momentum it gained last year after winning the three Hindi-belt states, with BJP set to sweep all three. Overall, BJP looks to settle with a comfortable majority with leads on over 290 seats, much ahead of the halfway mark. While the Congress is ahead on 51. The Lok Sabha polls that commenced on April 11 and wrapped up on May 19, saw approximately 900 million voters exercising their franchise and deciding the fate of 7,928 candidates across 542 seats in the country. Out of those candidates, 724 were women and four were transgenders.

Lok Sabha election result 2019: Congress fails to capitalise on assembly poll victories, trails in Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats.

The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data.

The BJP and the Congress are nowhere in the picture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">Get LIVE updates here.</a>

All parties fought the election on their own without any alliance, unlike in 2014 when the TDP-BJP sailed together.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;BJP+ well on course to sweep the polls

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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-tdps-chandrababu-naidu-likely-to-resign-today-220872">Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to submit his resignation</a> by the end of the day, reports&nbsp;He will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data.

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data. The BJP and the Congress are nowhere in the picture. Get LIVE updates here. All parties fought the election on their own without any alliance, unlike in 2014 when the TDP-BJP sailed together. Watch: BJP+ well on course to sweep the polls Meanwhile, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to submit his resignation by the end of the day, reports He will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

YSR Congress surging ahead in 24 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post&nbsp;as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state.

With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state.&nbsp;

In the wake of this massive loss, TDP chief Naidu will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

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Of the data available for 173 seats of the total 175, the Telugu Desam Party is leading in 29 seats with Pawan Kumar's Jan Kalyan in two.

TDP supremo and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy are leading over the respective rival candidates.

Naidu initially trailed by 67 votes but bounced back to secure a lead over his nearest YSRC rival.

The results came as a huge shock to TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, who was not only confident of retaining power in the state but was hoping to play the role of kingmaker at the Centre.

In 2014, the TDP had bagged 102 seats while its then ally BJP had won four seats. The YSRCP had won 67 seats while two independents were also elected.

In the Lok Sabha elections held simultaneously, the TDP had won 15 and the BJP two seats. The YSRCP bagged the remaining eight seats.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state. With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to resign from the chief minister post as YSRCP decimates the ruling TDP in the state. With YSRCP leading in 152 of the 175 seats, Jagan Mohan Reddy is all set to become the next Chief Minister of the state. In the wake of this massive loss, TDP chief Naidu will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is likely to tender his resignation later today https://t.co/zmT3JAOcdZ — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2019 × Of the data available for 173 seats of the total 175, the Telugu Desam Party is leading in 29 seats with Pawan Kumar's Jan Kalyan in two. TDP supremo and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy are leading over the respective rival candidates. Naidu initially trailed by 67 votes but bounced back to secure a lead over his nearest YSRC rival. The results came as a huge shock to TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, who was not only confident of retaining power in the state but was hoping to play the role of kingmaker at the Centre. In 2014, the TDP had bagged 102 seats while its then ally BJP had won four seats. The YSRCP had won 67 seats while two independents were also elected. In the Lok Sabha elections held simultaneously, the TDP had won 15 and the BJP two seats. The YSRCP bagged the remaining eight seats.

Lok Sabha election result 2019: Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu set to resign

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-bjp-leaders-react-to-landslide-win-of-pm-narendra-modi-220885">BJP will perform better in 2019 Lok Sabha elections</a> in comparison to 2014 polls.

"I have repeatedly said that 2019 results will be better than 2014. Now as you are seeing trends, I am leading. You have also seen exit polls. People are appreciating that Narendra Modi-government served people honestly," Harsh Vardhan told ANI.

The Union Minister is seeking re-election from Chandni Chowk parliamentary constituency in Delhi where he is leading by a margin of over 14,000 votes.

He is pitted against Congress heavyweight and former union minister Jai Prakash Agarwal from Chandhi Chowk.

When asked to comment on Congress president Rahul Gandhi trailing in Amethi, Harsh Vardhan said, "In 1977, I had campaigned in Rae Bareli and Amethi. I have seen people defeating Late Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi. That's why I am not surprised if I get to see the same result in Rae Bareli and Amethi in this election there."

The Union Minister said that Congress' negative politics would lead to their defeat in the ongoing elections.

"Congress who worked for independence is now indulged in negative politics. They do not have any program. Congress is a synonym of corruption. Ten years of UPA rule was famous for scams," he said.

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday said that BJP will perform better in 2019 Lok Sabha elections in comparison to 2014 polls. "I have repeatedly said that 2019 results will be better than 2014.

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday said that BJP will perform better in 2019 Lok Sabha elections in comparison to 2014 polls. "I have repeatedly said that 2019 results will be better than 2014. Now as you are seeing trends, I am leading. You have also seen exit polls. People are appreciating that Narendra Modi-government served people honestly," Harsh Vardhan told ANI. The Union Minister is seeking re-election from Chandni Chowk parliamentary constituency in Delhi where he is leading by a margin of over 14,000 votes. He is pitted against Congress heavyweight and former union minister Jai Prakash Agarwal from Chandhi Chowk. When asked to comment on Congress president Rahul Gandhi trailing in Amethi, Harsh Vardhan said, "In 1977, I had campaigned in Rae Bareli and Amethi. I have seen people defeating Late Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi. That's why I am not surprised if I get to see the same result in Rae Bareli and Amethi in this election there." The Union Minister said that Congress' negative politics would lead to their defeat in the ongoing elections. "Congress who worked for independence is now indulged in negative politics. They do not have any program. Congress is a synonym of corruption. Ten years of UPA rule was famous for scams," he said.

2019 results will be better than 2014: Union Minister Harsh Vardhan

Nearly 60 per cent female voters came out to exercise their franchise in Bihar in the Lok Sabha elections as against just about 55 per cent turnout for men.

As per the figures released by the Election Commission here, the overall turnout for female voters stood at 59.92 per cent as against 55.26 per cent for men.

The constituencies which registered the highest female turnouts were Katihar (72.37), Supaul (71.64), Kishanganj (70.37), Araria (69.39), Purnea (68.15), Begusarai (67.13), Samastipur (66.74), Vaishali (66.62) and Ujiarpur (65.12).

In contrast, the male turnout did not exceed 65 per cent in any of the 40 seats in the state and exceeded 60 per cent in only five Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar and Purnea, it said.

Notably, among the constituencies with the highest female turnouts, only Supaul and Vaishali had a woman candidate as one of the main contestants.

While sitting Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan is in the fray from Supaul, in Vaishali the LJP has fielded Veena Devi. In some constituencies, the difference between male and female turnout was significantly high. In Sitamarhi 54.53 per cent men voted as against 64.36 per cent women.

In Madhubani and Jhanjharpur, the male turnout stood at 48.14 per cent and 51.25 per cent respectively as against 59.97 per cent and 63.83 per cent for female voters in these constituencies.

Siwan, where the main contest is between Kavita Singh of JD(U) and Heena Shahab of RJD, both married to local bahubalis, the female voters appeared similarly enthusiastic as their turnout stood at 59.56 per cent as against only 50.17 per cent for men.

However, in adjoining Gopalganj (SC) and Maharajganj, which did not have any prominent female candidate, womens turnout was, similarly, about 10 per cent higher than that of men.

However, all the constituencies which went to polls in the last phase registered lower female turnouts. Patna Sahib, which covers the entire Bihar capital, saw a measly 43.07 per cent female turnout as gainst 49.27 per cent men.

The seat is witnessing a high-profile battle between actor-turned-politician and second term MP Shatrughan Sinha, who is the contesting on a Congress ticket, and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad who has been fielded by the BJP.

In adjoining Pataliputra, Lalu Prasad's daughter Misa Bharti's presence in the fray seems to have failed to enthuse female voters as their turnout stood at 52.40 per cent compared with 59.07 per cent for male.

In Sasaram (SC), which former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar seeks to wrest back from BJPs Chhedi Paswan, female turnout was 51.65 per cent as against 56.88 per cent for male.

Even in Nalanda, the home turf of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who has been working over the years to carve out a following among female voters, cutting across caste and religious lines, through measures like reservations in panchayats ban on alcohol and free uniforms and bicycles to school-going girls, only 47.44 per cent women voted compared with 50.15 per cent men.

Female turnout was similarly lower than that of men in the remaining four seats Arrah, Jehanabad, Karakat and Buxar which went to polls on May 19.

The only other seat besides these eight where the female turnout remained lower than that of male was Gaya (SC).

Former chief minister and HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi is engaged in, virtually, a straight contest with JD(U)s Vijay Manjhi in the constituency which went to polls in the first phase on April 11 and where 55.55 per cent women came out to vote as against 56.74 per cent men.

Nearly 60 per cent female voters came out to exercise their franchise in Bihar in the Lok Sabha elections as against just about 55 per cent turnout for men. As per the figures released by the Election Commission here, the overall turnout for female voters stood at 59.

Nearly 60 per cent female voters came out to exercise their franchise in Bihar in the Lok Sabha elections as against just about 55 per cent turnout for men. As per the figures released by the Election Commission here, the overall turnout for female voters stood at 59.92 per cent as against 55.26 per cent for men. The constituencies which registered the highest female turnouts were Katihar (72.37), Supaul (71.64), Kishanganj (70.37), Araria (69.39), Purnea (68.15), Begusarai (67.13), Samastipur (66.74), Vaishali (66.62) and Ujiarpur (65.12). In contrast, the male turnout did not exceed 65 per cent in any of the 40 seats in the state and exceeded 60 per cent in only five Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar and Purnea, it said. Notably, among the constituencies with the highest female turnouts, only Supaul and Vaishali had a woman candidate as one of the main contestants. While sitting Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan is in the fray from Supaul, in Vaishali the LJP has fielded Veena Devi. In some constituencies, the difference between male and female turnout was significantly high. In Sitamarhi 54.53 per cent men voted as against 64.36 per cent women. In Madhubani and Jhanjharpur, the male turnout stood at 48.14 per cent and 51.25 per cent respectively as against 59.97 per cent and 63.83 per cent for female voters in these constituencies. Siwan, where the main contest is between Kavita Singh of JD(U) and Heena Shahab of RJD, both married to local bahubalis, the female voters appeared similarly enthusiastic as their turnout stood at 59.56 per cent as against only 50.17 per cent for men. However, in adjoining Gopalganj (SC) and Maharajganj, which did not have any prominent female candidate, womens turnout was, similarly, about 10 per cent higher than that of men. However, all the constituencies which went to polls in the last phase registered lower female turnouts. Patna Sahib, which covers the entire Bihar capital, saw a measly 43.07 per cent female turnout as gainst 49.27 per cent men. The seat is witnessing a high-profile battle between actor-turned-politician and second term MP Shatrughan Sinha, who is the contesting on a Congress ticket, and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad who has been fielded by the BJP. In adjoining Pataliputra, Lalu Prasad's daughter Misa Bharti's presence in the fray seems to have failed to enthuse female voters as their turnout stood at 52.40 per cent compared with 59.07 per cent for male. In Sasaram (SC), which former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar seeks to wrest back from BJPs Chhedi Paswan, female turnout was 51.65 per cent as against 56.88 per cent for male. Even in Nalanda, the home turf of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who has been working over the years to carve out a following among female voters, cutting across caste and religious lines, through measures like reservations in panchayats ban on alcohol and free uniforms and bicycles to school-going girls, only 47.44 per cent women voted compared with 50.15 per cent men. Female turnout was similarly lower than that of men in the remaining four seats Arrah, Jehanabad, Karakat and Buxar which went to polls on May 19. The only other seat besides these eight where the female turnout remained lower than that of male was Gaya (SC). Former chief minister and HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi is engaged in, virtually, a straight contest with JD(U)s Vijay Manjhi in the constituency which went to polls in the first phase on April 11 and where 55.55 per cent women came out to vote as against 56.74 per cent men.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Bihar records substantial female turnout, highest in Katihar

As Congress and BJP are involved in a spat over allegations of topping the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday said that the party has not demanded a floor test in the Assembly.

"BJP and Gopal Bhargava (Leader of the Opposition) never demanded a floor test. We have said (in the letter to Governor) that there should be a discussion on the problems," Chouhan told reporters.

The furore over floor test started after Bhargava wrote a letter to Governor Anandiben Patel, urging her to convene the Assembly session soon to discuss pressing issues like drinking water, law and order situation, and non-payment of farmers'&nbsp;dues.

However, Kamal Nath had said that his government holds the majority and is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ready-for-floor-test-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-kamal-nath-220240">ready to face the floor test</a>. Yesterday, he claimed that the BJP was trying to lure 10 Congress MLAs in its bid to topple his government.

On Opposition`s questions on EVMs, Chouhan said, "Opposition knows they are going to face defeated badly. Now they have to find things blame, so they are blaming EVMs. They are demanding impractical things which cannot be accepted. Tomorrow, they will say they have already said it."

"They are preparing for blaming EVMs. They know very well NDA is going to register landslide victory that is why they are involving in these things," he said.

Citing electricity problem in the state, the former chief minister demanded that the Election Commission should arrange generators for the counting day.

"We are demanding from the Election Commission that there is a dark rule here. The electricity has been cut off for ten times in Bhopal. Counting of votes will take place from tomorrow. So, the poll body should not depend on electricity and should arrange generators,"

"Digvijay Singh used to go out with banners and generators. We demand the generators should be arranged by the Commission. Otherwise, Congress will say that BJP is behind all this," Chouhan said.

The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls will take place on May 23.

The 231-member Madhya Pradesh assembly has 113 Congress members, one short of half-way mark, and 109 BJP legislators.

The ruling coalition is led by the Congress, supported by an MLA of SP, two of MLAs of Bahujan Samaj Party and four independents.&nbsp;

As Congress and BJP are involved in a spat over allegations of topping the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday said that the party has not demanded a floor test in the Assembly.

As Congress and BJP are involved in a spat over allegations of topping the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh, former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday said that the party has not demanded a floor test in the Assembly. "BJP and Gopal Bhargava (Leader of the Opposition) never demanded a floor test. We have said (in the letter to Governor) that there should be a discussion on the problems," Chouhan told reporters. The furore over floor test started after Bhargava wrote a letter to Governor Anandiben Patel, urging her to convene the Assembly session soon to discuss pressing issues like drinking water, law and order situation, and non-payment of farmers' dues. However, Kamal Nath had said that his government holds the majority and is ready to face the floor test. Yesterday, he claimed that the BJP was trying to lure 10 Congress MLAs in its bid to topple his government. On Opposition`s questions on EVMs, Chouhan said, "Opposition knows they are going to face defeated badly. Now they have to find things blame, so they are blaming EVMs. They are demanding impractical things which cannot be accepted. Tomorrow, they will say they have already said it." "They are preparing for blaming EVMs. They know very well NDA is going to register landslide victory that is why they are involving in these things," he said. Citing electricity problem in the state, the former chief minister demanded that the Election Commission should arrange generators for the counting day. "We are demanding from the Election Commission that there is a dark rule here. The electricity has been cut off for ten times in Bhopal. Counting of votes will take place from tomorrow. So, the poll body should not depend on electricity and should arrange generators," "Digvijay Singh used to go out with banners and generators. We demand the generators should be arranged by the Commission. Otherwise, Congress will say that BJP is behind all this," Chouhan said. The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls will take place on May 23. The 231-member Madhya Pradesh assembly has 113 Congress members, one short of half-way mark, and 109 BJP legislators. The ruling coalition is led by the Congress, supported by an MLA of SP, two of MLAs of Bahujan Samaj Party and four independents.

BJP never demanded floor test in Madhya Pradesh Assembly: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

As India completes its 17th general election in 70 years, it is an occasion to answer pessimists, who have doubted the vibrancy of India’s democracy. When the venerable Economist had put India in the `flawed democracy’ category in 2018, I had suggested that the foundations of Indian democracy run much deeper than what the New Delhi-centric media may portray. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One of the six criteria for that assessment was the country’s electoral system. A look at the electoral process of 2019, however, does give some cause for worry. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The efficacy of an electoral system is determined by how free and fair they are. In other words, how has the well- empowered Election Commission of India (ECI) functioned during the course of the recently-concluded elections? &nbsp;

The ECI can be credited with introducing improvements in the conduct of general election and more than 100 Assembly polls. But it is expected to function without any pressure, including from the incumbent government. Since each poll is unique and the chief election commissioners (CECs) are likely to be different, ECI’s performance may not be uniform. CEC TN Seshan, for example, was remembered as a benchmark for establishing the commission’s independence and neutrality. Even after 29 years, Seshan is remembered as India’s most effective CEC. He is seen as someone who upheld the special stature and unique potential of the ECI to streamline the poll process. Going by the concerns and complaints against the commission’s impartiality in 2019, it could perhaps not be said that it passed all the tests, particularly on the fairness criteria. &nbsp;

Justifiable doubts have been raised about its independence. Even the Supreme Court had to remind the commission midway through the elections, about its powers. Another criteria was whether there was a level-playing field for voters and recognised parties to contest and campaign. If complaints against one leader with a self-declared criminal record are acted upon promptly by the ECI at the expense of another, who is in power in the same state, the message of fair play takes a beating. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The ECI was also silent on the many violations of the Model Code of Conduct. Just when proactive initiatives were needed to safeguard the status of the ECI, the commission lost its voice.

Once the poll notification comes into play, it is the responsibility of the ECI to ensure that the code applies to all candidates and parties equally and not at the discretion of the commission. &nbsp;

None of the eight points in the Model Code of Conduct were adhered to by most leaders and parties, and yet the ECI did little except to issue a notice. &nbsp;

Campaign civility was the biggest casualty in these elections. Never before has a poll campaign led to so much animosity; yet the ECI preferred to opt in for a “wait and watch” policy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The idea of a chief election commissioner and two commissioners was to add to the efficiency of the ECI. In reality, there was no evidence of such a thing happening. The two election commissioners never gave the impression of sharing any responsibility, or maybe were just plainly ignored.

The time taken to decide contentious issues had put the ECI’s objectivity to test. In fact, the very decision of seven-phase polling, where one has to wait for 43 days to know who is elected, itself is flawed. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Even more alarming was the situation in a state going to Assembly elections. The fact that the state had to function for 43 days, virtually without a government, was overlooked by the ECI.

When government departments and agencies like the income tax, enforcement directorate and the intelligence bureau raided the homes of only those opposed to the government during the poll process, the ECI merely stood by. When questioned, all it could do was to ask the agencies to keep it informed. It is of little surprise that the agencies continued with their own agenda, ignoring the ECI. &nbsp;

The ECI cannot be treated like another government agency. Despite so many of the ECI’s ‘expenditure observers’, there was little that the commission did to curb increased poll expenditure. The cash, gold and liquor confiscated was larger than the 2014 general election levels. &nbsp;

With grapevine about 2019 being the most expensive elections ever, no serious steps were taken to cut down expenses, except to cancel a poll in one Tamil Nadu seat. No new ECI initiative to reduce campaign costs were evident. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Of course, the entire blame cannot be placed at the doorsteps of the ECI, as political parties, news media, and the civil society together are responsible for the state of affairs.

But ultimately, the ECI has to take the lead. It took the initiative in one or two instances, but only when a number of former senior bureaucrats and ex-Army men wrote to the President of India, criticising ECI’s rather submissive postures. &nbsp;

The present ECI, however, needs to be commended for continuing to facilitate ADR analysis on the affidavits of candidates, so as to put critical information about them in the public domain.

No wonder the Supreme Court asked the ECI to ensure that candidates put up information about their criminal antecedents in the public domain during the campaign, more than once. It is another matter that hardly a few followed it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-revealing-a-vibrant-democracy-2751753">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As India completes its 17th general election in 70 years, it is an occasion to answer pessimists, who have doubted the vibrancy of India’s democracy. When the venerable Economist had put India in the `flawed democracy’ category in 2018, I had suggested that the foundations of Indian democracy run much deeper than what the New Delhi-centric media may portray.

As India completes its 17th general election in 70 years, it is an occasion to answer pessimists, who have doubted the vibrancy of India’s democracy. When the venerable Economist had put India in the `flawed democracy’ category in 2018, I had suggested that the foundations of Indian democracy run much deeper than what the New Delhi-centric media may portray. One of the six criteria for that assessment was the country’s electoral system. A look at the electoral process of 2019, however, does give some cause for worry. The efficacy of an electoral system is determined by how free and fair they are. In other words, how has the well- empowered Election Commission of India (ECI) functioned during the course of the recently-concluded elections? The ECI can be credited with introducing improvements in the conduct of general election and more than 100 Assembly polls. But it is expected to function without any pressure, including from the incumbent government. Since each poll is unique and the chief election commissioners (CECs) are likely to be different, ECI’s performance may not be uniform. CEC TN Seshan, for example, was remembered as a benchmark for establishing the commission’s independence and neutrality. Even after 29 years, Seshan is remembered as India’s most effective CEC. He is seen as someone who upheld the special stature and unique potential of the ECI to streamline the poll process. Going by the concerns and complaints against the commission’s impartiality in 2019, it could perhaps not be said that it passed all the tests, particularly on the fairness criteria. Justifiable doubts have been raised about its independence. Even the Supreme Court had to remind the commission midway through the elections, about its powers. Another criteria was whether there was a level-playing field for voters and recognised parties to contest and campaign. If complaints against one leader with a self-declared criminal record are acted upon promptly by the ECI at the expense of another, who is in power in the same state, the message of fair play takes a beating. The ECI was also silent on the many violations of the Model Code of Conduct. Just when proactive initiatives were needed to safeguard the status of the ECI, the commission lost its voice. Once the poll notification comes into play, it is the responsibility of the ECI to ensure that the code applies to all candidates and parties equally and not at the discretion of the commission. None of the eight points in the Model Code of Conduct were adhered to by most leaders and parties, and yet the ECI did little except to issue a notice. Campaign civility was the biggest casualty in these elections. Never before has a poll campaign led to so much animosity; yet the ECI preferred to opt in for a “wait and watch” policy. The idea of a chief election commissioner and two commissioners was to add to the efficiency of the ECI. In reality, there was no evidence of such a thing happening. The two election commissioners never gave the impression of sharing any responsibility, or maybe were just plainly ignored. The time taken to decide contentious issues had put the ECI’s objectivity to test. In fact, the very decision of seven-phase polling, where one has to wait for 43 days to know who is elected, itself is flawed. Even more alarming was the situation in a state going to Assembly elections. The fact that the state had to function for 43 days, virtually without a government, was overlooked by the ECI. When government departments and agencies like the income tax, enforcement directorate and the intelligence bureau raided the homes of only those opposed to the government during the poll process, the ECI merely stood by. When questioned, all it could do was to ask the agencies to keep it informed. It is of little surprise that the agencies continued with their own agenda, ignoring the ECI. The ECI cannot be treated like another government agency. Despite so many of the ECI’s ‘expenditure observers’, there was little that the commission did to curb increased poll expenditure. The cash, gold and liquor confiscated was larger than the 2014 general election levels. With grapevine about 2019 being the most expensive elections ever, no serious steps were taken to cut down expenses, except to cancel a poll in one Tamil Nadu seat. No new ECI initiative to reduce campaign costs were evident. Of course, the entire blame cannot be placed at the doorsteps of the ECI, as political parties, news media, and the civil society together are responsible for the state of affairs. But ultimately, the ECI has to take the lead. It took the initiative in one or two instances, but only when a number of former senior bureaucrats and ex-Army men wrote to the President of India, criticising ECI’s rather submissive postures. The present ECI, however, needs to be commended for continuing to facilitate ADR analysis on the affidavits of candidates, so as to put critical information about them in the public domain. No wonder the Supreme Court asked the ECI to ensure that candidates put up information about their criminal antecedents in the public domain during the campaign, more than once. It is another matter that hardly a few followed it. (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.)

Revealing a vibrant democracy: Electoral reforms are the need of the hour

Former Chief Minister Raman Singh on Wednesday claimed that BJP would repeat the electoral success in Chhattisgarh.

"People of Chhattisgarh have voted for the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We are preparing to repeat the electoral success of 2014," Singh told ANI.

"Within five months, people have become angry with Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. They have not fulfilled their poll promises here. They have stopped the development works in the state," he said.

In 2014, the BJP had swept the polls and won 10 seats out of 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Commenting on the exit polls which predicted a second term for Modi-led government, Singh said, "Nobody has any doubt about PM Modi in any part of the country. BJP is also performing well in the states where its presence was not perceived to be good."

Commenting on Congress president Rahul Gandhi's tweet terming exits polls as fake, the former chief minister said,&nbsp;"Different agencies have carried out the exit polls. They just do not want to accept it. Tomorrow, they will know the decision of the people."

Earlier, Rahul tweeted,&nbsp;"Dear Congress party workers, the next 24 hours are really important. Be cautious and vigilant and don't be afraid. You are fighting for the truth. Do not be upset because of the fake exit polls. Believe in yourself and the Congress party. Your hard work won't go in vain."

Singh also attacked the opposition parties for questioning the credibility of the EVMs.

"When they had won in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, EVMs were good. When they think they are losing, they blame the people and EVMs," he said. In Chhattisgarh, 11 Lok Sabha seats witnessed polling in the first three phases of Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Former Chief Minister Raman Singh on Wednesday claimed that BJP would repeat the electoral success in Chhattisgarh. "People of Chhattisgarh have voted for the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Former Chief Minister Raman Singh on Wednesday claimed that BJP would repeat the electoral success in Chhattisgarh. "People of Chhattisgarh have voted for the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We are preparing to repeat the electoral success of 2014," Singh told ANI. "Within five months, people have become angry with Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. They have not fulfilled their poll promises here. They have stopped the development works in the state," he said. In 2014, the BJP had swept the polls and won 10 seats out of 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Commenting on the exit polls which predicted a second term for Modi-led government, Singh said, "Nobody has any doubt about PM Modi in any part of the country. BJP is also performing well in the states where its presence was not perceived to be good." Commenting on Congress president Rahul Gandhi's tweet terming exits polls as fake, the former chief minister said, "Different agencies have carried out the exit polls. They just do not want to accept it. Tomorrow, they will know the decision of the people." Earlier, Rahul tweeted, "Dear Congress party workers, the next 24 hours are really important. Be cautious and vigilant and don't be afraid. You are fighting for the truth. Do not be upset because of the fake exit polls. Believe in yourself and the Congress party. Your hard work won't go in vain." Singh also attacked the opposition parties for questioning the credibility of the EVMs. "When they had won in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, EVMs were good. When they think they are losing, they blame the people and EVMs," he said. In Chhattisgarh, 11 Lok Sabha seats witnessed polling in the first three phases of Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP will repeat its electoral success in Chhattisgarh: Raman Singh

Stock market will reach a new record high by end-year, a Reuters poll of strategists showed, building on an election-driven rally in which investors have bet the ruling party will retain power and continue current economic policies.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-witnessing-eventful-day-stock-market-close-at-record-high-sensex-surges-over-1400-points-220115">BSE Sensex index rose</a> by its biggest amount in one day since September 2013 on Monday after exit polls showed the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) party led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/at-nda-meeting-pm-modi-expresses-concern-over-needless-controversy-over-evms-by-opposition-220526">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will retain power for a second consecutive term.

Final results are due on Thursday.

Having gained 8% so far this year, the index is forecast to add another 2.6% by end-2019, touching an all-time high of 40,000 from Tuesday’s close of 38,969, the poll of nearly 50 strategists taken May 14-21 showed.

All but one of the equity strategists who answered an additional question said they have factored in either the BJP winning a majority or a victory of the BJP-led NDA into their forecasts.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-view-sensex-crosses-39500-mark-for-first-time-220374/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“I feel a stable government and more policy action to come will definitely give a boost to the economy and that will act positive for the market,” said B.V. Rudramurthy, managing director at Vachana Investments.

Still, the predicted rise is much smaller than the 15% per cent stock market surge in the first six months after Modi came to power in 2014, suggesting some investors are less optimistic about the NDA administration than they were then.

The benchmark index is forecast to hit another fresh high of 42,250 by end-2020. Similar gains are predicted for the broader NSE Nifty.

The overall optimism among investors lines up with a separate Reuters poll of mostly financial sector economists conducted last month, which concluded that the BJP winning a majority or a BJP-led NDA government would be best for the economy.

“As per the exit polls, NDA led by BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) is likely to easily cross the half-way mark. Markets will have a big sigh of relief as it favours continuity and familiarity in terms of roll-out of policies,” said Ajay Bodke, CEO at Prabhudas Lilladher.&nbsp;

The Reserve Bank of India cut interest rates twice before the elections. Like most major central banks, it is not expected to tighten policy any time soon, another factor that has kept share prices around the world well-bid this year.

However, not all respondents were optimistic.

Nearly one in three contributors forecast the index to decline from the current level by end of this year, including four participants predicting a correction - a decline of 10% or more.

“We do expect weakness in global equities throughout the rest of the year as the global economy disappoints,” said Shilan Shah, senior India economist at Capital Economics.

“For India, especially with the recent rally, they (stocks) look extremely stretched...It is one of the reasons to think the rally probably can’t continue for much longer.”

Shah has predicted a decline of nearly 12% by end-2019 with one of the most pessimistic calls at 34,250.&nbsp;

Although stocks have risen about 65% since Modi first took office in 2014, that was significantly less compared to the previous two terms of the Congress party-led UPA (United Progressive Alliance) between 2004-2014.

The reason for lagging was largely due to weak corporate earnings, which fell about 4% annually during Modi’s tenure after gaining nearly 12% under the prior government.

This is also reflected by a higher average price-to-earnings ratio and lower dividend yield under Modi’s tenure.

“At present stocks are defying gravity. With the price-to-earnings ratio at a historic high of 28, the market is too expensive. My fear is if earnings don’t pick up soon, the chances of a correction are high,” said Milind Vasudev, senior equity analyst at Arihant Capital Markets.&nbsp;

Stock market will reach a new record high by end-year, a Reuters poll of strategists showed, building on an election-driven rally in which investors have bet the ruling party will retain power and continue current economic policies.

Stock market will reach a new record high by end-year, a Reuters poll of strategists showed, building on an election-driven rally in which investors have bet the ruling party will retain power and continue current economic policies. The BSE Sensex index rose by its biggest amount in one day since September 2013 on Monday after exit polls showed the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) party led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will retain power for a second consecutive term. Final results are due on Thursday. Having gained 8% so far this year, the index is forecast to add another 2.6% by end-2019, touching an all-time high of 40,000 from Tuesday’s close of 38,969, the poll of nearly 50 strategists taken May 14-21 showed. All but one of the equity strategists who answered an additional question said they have factored in either the BJP winning a majority or a victory of the BJP-led NDA into their forecasts. “I feel a stable government and more policy action to come will definitely give a boost to the economy and that will act positive for the market,” said B.V. Rudramurthy, managing director at Vachana Investments. Still, the predicted rise is much smaller than the 15% per cent stock market surge in the first six months after Modi came to power in 2014, suggesting some investors are less optimistic about the NDA administration than they were then. The benchmark index is forecast to hit another fresh high of 42,250 by end-2020. Similar gains are predicted for the broader NSE Nifty. The overall optimism among investors lines up with a separate Reuters poll of mostly financial sector economists conducted last month, which concluded that the BJP winning a majority or a BJP-led NDA government would be best for the economy. “As per the exit polls, NDA led by BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) is likely to easily cross the half-way mark. Markets will have a big sigh of relief as it favours continuity and familiarity in terms of roll-out of policies,” said Ajay Bodke, CEO at Prabhudas Lilladher. The Reserve Bank of India cut interest rates twice before the elections. Like most major central banks, it is not expected to tighten policy any time soon, another factor that has kept share prices around the world well-bid this year. However, not all respondents were optimistic. Nearly one in three contributors forecast the index to decline from the current level by end of this year, including four participants predicting a correction - a decline of 10% or more. “We do expect weakness in global equities throughout the rest of the year as the global economy disappoints,” said Shilan Shah, senior India economist at Capital Economics. “For India, especially with the recent rally, they (stocks) look extremely stretched...It is one of the reasons to think the rally probably can’t continue for much longer.” Shah has predicted a decline of nearly 12% by end-2019 with one of the most pessimistic calls at 34,250. Although stocks have risen about 65% since Modi first took office in 2014, that was significantly less compared to the previous two terms of the Congress party-led UPA (United Progressive Alliance) between 2004-2014. The reason for lagging was largely due to weak corporate earnings, which fell about 4% annually during Modi’s tenure after gaining nearly 12% under the prior government. This is also reflected by a higher average price-to-earnings ratio and lower dividend yield under Modi’s tenure. “At present stocks are defying gravity. With the price-to-earnings ratio at a historic high of 28, the market is too expensive. My fear is if earnings don’t pick up soon, the chances of a correction are high,” said Milind Vasudev, senior equity analyst at Arihant Capital Markets.

Nifty, Sensex to climb a bit more if PM Modi wins decisively: Poll

Former Election Commissioner OP Rawat on Wednesday said that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are tamper-proof and cannot be hacked.

Earlier on Wednesday, the EC rejected the opposition parties'&nbsp;demand that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-rejects-oppositions-demand-for-tallying-vvpat-slips-with-evm-220642">VVPAT slips be matched with EVM data</a> first before counting of votes on May 23.

Talking to ANI, Rawat said, "EVMs can't be tampered with. EVM security protocol is so strict whenever a strong room has to be opened, representatives of all political parties have to be there, machines are taken out in their presence."

"A mock poll is also conducted at the polling station where all the polling agents are asked to vote and then count, so all these arrangements ensure transparency in the whole process," he added.

On the possibility of accepting the demand made by 22 political parties, Rawat said, "If there is no utility of this exercise, then why do it? SC in its order has also said that it should be done only at five polling stations in a legislative assembly. That is more than sufficient."

He also said that all institutions are aware of unnecessary complaints filed in a frivolous manner.

Maintaining that no substance was found in past complaints regarding the EVMs, Rawat said, "EVM is a standalone machine which is not connected to the Internet, wifi or even an electricity cable. We even got the VVPAT sample verified by the Indian Statistical Institute which also said that EVMs are completely safe and tamper-proof."

Voting for the general elections, in seven phases, has concluded.&nbsp;The counting of votes will take place on Thursday.

Former Election Commissioner OP Rawat on Wednesday said that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are tamper-proof and cannot be hacked. Earlier on Wednesday, the EC rejected the opposition parties' demand that VVPAT slips be matched with EVM data first before counting of votes on May 23.

Former Election Commissioner OP Rawat on Wednesday said that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are tamper-proof and cannot be hacked. Earlier on Wednesday, the EC rejected the opposition parties' demand that VVPAT slips be matched with EVM data first before counting of votes on May 23. Talking to ANI, Rawat said, "EVMs can't be tampered with. EVM security protocol is so strict whenever a strong room has to be opened, representatives of all political parties have to be there, machines are taken out in their presence." "A mock poll is also conducted at the polling station where all the polling agents are asked to vote and then count, so all these arrangements ensure transparency in the whole process," he added. On the possibility of accepting the demand made by 22 political parties, Rawat said, "If there is no utility of this exercise, then why do it? SC in its order has also said that it should be done only at five polling stations in a legislative assembly. That is more than sufficient." He also said that all institutions are aware of unnecessary complaints filed in a frivolous manner. Maintaining that no substance was found in past complaints regarding the EVMs, Rawat said, "EVM is a standalone machine which is not connected to the Internet, wifi or even an electricity cable. We even got the VVPAT sample verified by the Indian Statistical Institute which also said that EVMs are completely safe and tamper-proof." Voting for the general elections, in seven phases, has concluded. The counting of votes will take place on Thursday.

EVMs are completely tamper-proof, cannot be hacked: Former Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat

The Election Commission on Wednesday rejected the opposition demand that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-elections-2019-counting-to-take-place-on-thursday-matching-vvpat-slips-likely-to-delay-results-220581">VVPAT slips be matched with EVM</a> data first before counting of votes in a constituency when votes will be counted in the general elections tomorrow.

The Election Commission said there would be no change in the procedure of matching Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips.

The decision was taken a day after the leaders of 22 opposition parties met the Election Commission and demanded verification of VVPAT slips of randomly-selected polling stations before the counting begins of the votes polled in the just-concluded elections.

The delegation included the leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The opposition had also demanded that in case of any discrepancy during VVPAT verification, 100 per cent counting of the paper slips of VVPATs of all polling stations of that particular Assembly segment be compared with the electronic voting machine (EVM) results.

The current provisions say five randomly-selected EVMs will be verified in each assembly segment with the VVPAT slips.

"If any discrepancy is found in the tally, then VVPAT for the whole assembly segment should be counted. We do not know what is the problem of the Election Commission? Former Chief Election Commissioner has also endorsed our demand. Former President (Pranab Mukherjee) also made it very clear that EC should keep transparency and create confidence among Indian voters," Naidu had said after the meeting on Tuesday.

The Supreme Court had also earlier rejected opposition's plea demanding at least 50 per cent VVPAT verification saying it is "not inclined to interfere".Counting of votes for Lok Sabha election 2019 will begin at 8 am on May 23. The results are already expected to be delayed due to tallying of VVPATs with EVM count for the first time. 
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The Election Commission on Wednesday rejected the opposition demand that VVPAT slips be matched with EVM data first before counting of votes in a constituency when votes will be counted in the general elections tomorrow.

The Election Commission on Wednesday rejected the opposition demand that VVPAT slips be matched with EVM data first before counting of votes in a constituency when votes will be counted in the general elections tomorrow. The Election Commission said there would be no change in the procedure of matching Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips. The decision was taken a day after the leaders of 22 opposition parties met the Election Commission and demanded verification of VVPAT slips of randomly-selected polling stations before the counting begins of the votes polled in the just-concluded elections. The delegation included the leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The opposition had also demanded that in case of any discrepancy during VVPAT verification, 100 per cent counting of the paper slips of VVPATs of all polling stations of that particular Assembly segment be compared with the electronic voting machine (EVM) results. The current provisions say five randomly-selected EVMs will be verified in each assembly segment with the VVPAT slips. "If any discrepancy is found in the tally, then VVPAT for the whole assembly segment should be counted. We do not know what is the problem of the Election Commission? Former Chief Election Commissioner has also endorsed our demand. Former President (Pranab Mukherjee) also made it very clear that EC should keep transparency and create confidence among Indian voters," Naidu had said after the meeting on Tuesday. The Supreme Court had also earlier rejected opposition's plea demanding at least 50 per cent VVPAT verification saying it is "not inclined to interfere".Counting of votes for Lok Sabha election 2019 will begin at 8 am on May 23. The results are already expected to be delayed due to tallying of VVPATs with EVM count for the first time.

Election Commission rejects opposition's demand for tallying VVPAT slips with EVM

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-amit-shah-meet-union-ministers-thank-them-for-service-to-nation-220445">Narendra Modi</a> Tuesday expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs at a meeting of NDA leaders, even as the ruling alliance laid out its agenda for the next five years if it is elected to power again.

At the BJP-led ruling alliance meeting, which was attended by 36 parties, a resolution was passed, terming the 2019 general election decisive for the country and pledging to make India "strong, developed, prosperous and inclusive" by 2022 when India completes 75 years of its independence, party leader and Union minister Rajnath Singh told reporters.

In his address, Modi stressed on the need to change the narrative from caste lines and orient it for the poor, Singh said.

The prime minister expressed concern over the Opposition making "needless controversy" over electronic voting machines, the home minister said.

The resolution was proposed by BJP ally and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami were among the BJP allies who attended the dinner-meeting hosted by BJP president Amit Shah.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs at a meeting of NDA leaders, even as the ruling alliance laid out its agenda for the next five years if it is elected to power again.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs at a meeting of NDA leaders, even as the ruling alliance laid out its agenda for the next five years if it is elected to power again. At the BJP-led ruling alliance meeting, which was attended by 36 parties, a resolution was passed, terming the 2019 general election decisive for the country and pledging to make India "strong, developed, prosperous and inclusive" by 2022 when India completes 75 years of its independence, party leader and Union minister Rajnath Singh told reporters. In his address, Modi stressed on the need to change the narrative from caste lines and orient it for the poor, Singh said. The prime minister expressed concern over the Opposition making "needless controversy" over electronic voting machines, the home minister said. The resolution was proposed by BJP ally and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami were among the BJP allies who attended the dinner-meeting hosted by BJP president Amit Shah.

At NDA meeting, PM Modi expresses concern over 'needless controversy' over EVMs by opposition

BJP president Amit Shah Wednesday accused the Opposition of "disrespecting" people's mandate by raising doubts on electronic voting machines and said it is "tarnishing" Indian democracy as it is rattled by its "likely defeat" in Lok Sabha elections.

Slamming opposition parties, he said in tweets that they started protesting against EVMs only after the sixth phase of polling and intensified it after exit polls, which have predicted a comfortable victory for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.

"How can you question EVMs credibility on the basis of exit polls," he asked.

He also termed as unconstitutional the demand of 22 opposition parties that the Election Commission change its counting protocol and count five random VVPATs first, saying any decision in this regard is not possible without an all-party consensus.

The EC has rejected the Opposition's demand. Counting of votes will take place on Thursday.

Referring to statements of some Opposition leaders like Upendra Kushwaha that people can take up arms and resort to violence, he said such comments have no place in democracy and asked who is challenging democracy.

The Opposition in Bihar on Tuesday had alleged that attempts were being made to manipulate Lok Sabha poll results in favour of the ruling NDA, and warned that "blood may spill on the streets".

"Opposition to EVM amounts to disrespecting people's mandate. Rattled by their probable defeat, these 22 parties are tarnishing the country and its democracy in the world by raising questions on the democratic process. Their demands have no rationale and are driven by selfish interests," Shah said, adding that he wanted to ask them some questions.

Most of these opposition parties, such as the Congress, SP, BSM, Trinamool Congress, NCP, AAP, Telugu Desam Party, the Left and RJD among others, have won elections held through EVMs at some point of time, he said.

"Should it be presumed that when the opposition wins, then it emerges victorious in elections but when it loses it does so due to EVMs? If they do not trust EVMs, then why did they form the government?" Shah asked.

He said the Supreme Court has given final shape to the electoral process by hearing three PILs and asked if the opposition is raising questions on the apex court.

The Election Commission had earlier thrown an open challenge to anyone to show that EVMs can be tampered with but no opposition party took it up, he said.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah Wednesday accused the Opposition of "disrespecting" people's mandate by raising doubts on electronic voting machines and said it is "tarnishing" Indian democracy as it is rattled by its "likely defeat" in Lok Sabha elections.

BJP president Amit Shah Wednesday accused the Opposition of "disrespecting" people's mandate by raising doubts on electronic voting machines and said it is "tarnishing" Indian democracy as it is rattled by its "likely defeat" in Lok Sabha elections. Slamming opposition parties, he said in tweets that they started protesting against EVMs only after the sixth phase of polling and intensified it after exit polls, which have predicted a comfortable victory for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. "How can you question EVMs credibility on the basis of exit polls," he asked. He also termed as unconstitutional the demand of 22 opposition parties that the Election Commission change its counting protocol and count five random VVPATs first, saying any decision in this regard is not possible without an all-party consensus. The EC has rejected the Opposition's demand. Counting of votes will take place on Thursday. Referring to statements of some Opposition leaders like Upendra Kushwaha that people can take up arms and resort to violence, he said such comments have no place in democracy and asked who is challenging democracy. The Opposition in Bihar on Tuesday had alleged that attempts were being made to manipulate Lok Sabha poll results in favour of the ruling NDA, and warned that "blood may spill on the streets". "Opposition to EVM amounts to disrespecting people's mandate. Rattled by their probable defeat, these 22 parties are tarnishing the country and its democracy in the world by raising questions on the democratic process. Their demands have no rationale and are driven by selfish interests," Shah said, adding that he wanted to ask them some questions. Most of these opposition parties, such as the Congress, SP, BSM, Trinamool Congress, NCP, AAP, Telugu Desam Party, the Left and RJD among others, have won elections held through EVMs at some point of time, he said. "Should it be presumed that when the opposition wins, then it emerges victorious in elections but when it loses it does so due to EVMs? If they do not trust EVMs, then why did they form the government?" Shah asked. He said the Supreme Court has given final shape to the electoral process by hearing three PILs and asked if the opposition is raising questions on the apex court. The Election Commission had earlier thrown an open challenge to anyone to show that EVMs can be tampered with but no opposition party took it up, he said.

Opposition raising questions on EVM as it is rattled by likely defeat: Amit Shah

About 500 masked men carrying guns and machetes attacked election officials in Arunachal Pradesh and made off with computerised voting machines, officials said on Wednesday.

Country's mammoth election staggered over nearly six weeks ended on Sunday and were largely peaceful.

Opposition&nbsp;parties have alleged tampering of voting machines and intimidation of election officials in isolated areas.

On Sunday, a team of officials was travelling through dense jungle to a polling station in Arunachal Pradesh when it was ambushed, district magistrate Rido Tarek said.

Some of the attackers opened fire but there were no casualties, police said.&nbsp;

"About 500 miscreants attacked our polling team and also resorted to firing although no one was injured," Sunil Garg, the state police inspector general told Reuters by telephone.

The team was on its way to Koloriang constituency for a repoll set for Tuesday following allegations of malpractices during the voting in April.

The election was held on Tuesday after a new team was sent with machines, Garg said.

The Election Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But it said it had received some complaints about attempts to tamper with voting machines in strongrooms from other parts of the country but they were not true.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-counting-of-votes-to-take-place-on-thursday-fates-of-over-8000-candidates-to-be-decided-220612">Votes are to be counted on Thursday</a>.

About 500 masked men carrying guns and machetes attacked election officials in Arunachal Pradesh and made off with computerised voting machines, officials said on Wednesday.

About 500 masked men carrying guns and machetes attacked election officials in Arunachal Pradesh and made off with computerised voting machines, officials said on Wednesday. Country's mammoth election staggered over nearly six weeks ended on Sunday and were largely peaceful. Opposition parties have alleged tampering of voting machines and intimidation of election officials in isolated areas. On Sunday, a team of officials was travelling through dense jungle to a polling station in Arunachal Pradesh when it was ambushed, district magistrate Rido Tarek said. Some of the attackers opened fire but there were no casualties, police said. "About 500 miscreants attacked our polling team and also resorted to firing although no one was injured," Sunil Garg, the state police inspector general told Reuters by telephone. The team was on its way to Koloriang constituency for a repoll set for Tuesday following allegations of malpractices during the voting in April. The election was held on Tuesday after a new team was sent with machines, Garg said. The Election Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But it said it had received some complaints about attempts to tamper with voting machines in strongrooms from other parts of the country but they were not true. Votes are to be counted on Thursday.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Masked attackers snatch voting machines in Arunachal Pradesh

The fate of 724 women candidates in the just-concluded Lok Sabha polls will be decided on Thursday when the results are announced. A total of 7,928 candidates were in the fray in the parliamentary polls.

The Congress had fielded the maximum of 54 women candidates. The opposition party was closely followed by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had fielded 53 women candidates.

Among the other national parties, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) fielded 24 women candidates, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) 23, the CPI(M) 10, the CPI four, while one woman candidate was fielded by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

As many as 222 women contested the polls independently.

Four transgender candidates also contested the polls independently, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was the only party to field a transgender nominee.

According to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch, 100 (15 per cent) women candidates declared criminal cases against themselves, while 78 (11 per cent) declared serious criminal cases against their names.

Two women candidates declared cases in which they were convicted, four declared cases related to murder, 16 had attempt to murder cases against them, 14 were accused of crimes against women such as causing miscarriage without a woman's consent while seven had cases related to hate speech registered against them, the report said.

Of the 100 women candidates with criminal cases against them, 13 are from the BJP, while 10 from the Congress.

The ADR report said of the 716 women candidates analysed, 255 (36 per cent) were crorepatis. Of the 665 women candidates analysed during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, 219 (33 per cent) were crorepatis.

Among the major parties, the average worth of assets per candidate for the Congress's women nominees is Rs 18.84 crore, while for the BJP candidates, it is Rs 22.09 crore. The average worth of assets of the BSP's women candidates is Rs 3.03 crore, while for the TMC nominees, it is Rs 2.67 crore.

The average worth of assets of the CPI-M's women candidates is Rs 1.33 crore, while for the Samajwadi Party (SP) it is Rs 39.85 crore and for the AAP, Rs 2.92 crore.

The average worth of assets of the 222 Independent women candidates is&nbsp;Rs 1.63 crore.

Hema Malini, the BJP candidate from Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, is the richest woman nominee in this election with assets worth Rs 250 crore, followed by Telugu Desam Party's (TDP) DA Sathya Prabha (Rs 220 crore) from Andhra Pradesh's Rajampet constituency and the Shiromani Akali Dal's Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Rs 217 crore) from Punjab's Bathinda, the affidavits showed.

Six women candidates -- all of whom contested the polls independently -- have declared zero assets in their self-sworn affidavits.

The ADR said 232 (32 per cent) women candidates declared their educational qualification to be between Class 5 and Class 12 pass, while 396 (55 per cent) declared having an educational qualification of graduate and above.

Thirty-seven women candidates have declared themselves to be just literate and 26 are illiterates. Two candidates did not give their educational qualification details.

The report further said 531 (74 per cent) women candidates declared their age to be between 25 and 50 years, while 180 (25 per cent) declared their age to be between 51 and 80 years.

While one woman candidate declared she was over 80 years of age, three did not disclose their age and one said her age was below 25 years, the report said.

The fate of 724 women candidates in the just-concluded Lok Sabha polls will be decided on Thursday when the results are announced. A total of 7,928 candidates were in the fray in the parliamentary polls.

The fate of 724 women candidates in the just-concluded Lok Sabha polls will be decided on Thursday when the results are announced. A total of 7,928 candidates were in the fray in the parliamentary polls. The Congress had fielded the maximum of 54 women candidates. The opposition party was closely followed by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had fielded 53 women candidates. Among the other national parties, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) fielded 24 women candidates, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) 23, the CPI(M) 10, the CPI four, while one woman candidate was fielded by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). As many as 222 women contested the polls independently. Four transgender candidates also contested the polls independently, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was the only party to field a transgender nominee. According to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and the National Election Watch, 100 (15 per cent) women candidates declared criminal cases against themselves, while 78 (11 per cent) declared serious criminal cases against their names. Two women candidates declared cases in which they were convicted, four declared cases related to murder, 16 had attempt to murder cases against them, 14 were accused of crimes against women such as causing miscarriage without a woman's consent while seven had cases related to hate speech registered against them, the report said. Of the 100 women candidates with criminal cases against them, 13 are from the BJP, while 10 from the Congress. The ADR report said of the 716 women candidates analysed, 255 (36 per cent) were crorepatis. Of the 665 women candidates analysed during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, 219 (33 per cent) were crorepatis. Among the major parties, the average worth of assets per candidate for the Congress's women nominees is Rs 18.84 crore, while for the BJP candidates, it is Rs 22.09 crore. The average worth of assets of the BSP's women candidates is Rs 3.03 crore, while for the TMC nominees, it is Rs 2.67 crore. The average worth of assets of the CPI-M's women candidates is Rs 1.33 crore, while for the Samajwadi Party (SP) it is Rs 39.85 crore and for the AAP, Rs 2.92 crore. The average worth of assets of the 222 Independent women candidates is Rs 1.63 crore. Hema Malini, the BJP candidate from Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, is the richest woman nominee in this election with assets worth Rs 250 crore, followed by Telugu Desam Party's (TDP) DA Sathya Prabha (Rs 220 crore) from Andhra Pradesh's Rajampet constituency and the Shiromani Akali Dal's Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Rs 217 crore) from Punjab's Bathinda, the affidavits showed. Six women candidates -- all of whom contested the polls independently -- have declared zero assets in their self-sworn affidavits. The ADR said 232 (32 per cent) women candidates declared their educational qualification to be between Class 5 and Class 12 pass, while 396 (55 per cent) declared having an educational qualification of graduate and above. Thirty-seven women candidates have declared themselves to be just literate and 26 are illiterates. Two candidates did not give their educational qualification details. The report further said 531 (74 per cent) women candidates declared their age to be between 25 and 50 years, while 180 (25 per cent) declared their age to be between 51 and 80 years. While one woman candidate declared she was over 80 years of age, three did not disclose their age and one said her age was below 25 years, the report said.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Fate of 724 women candidates to be decided on Thursday

Exit polls have been used for years to provide the pulse of India's political climate once voting is over.

Exit polls: Reliability, methodology and other things you need to know

A day ahead of counting of votes for the Parliamentary elections, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in Telangana is upbeat about winning 16 of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats, while opposition Congress and BJP also sounded hopeful of winning a good number of seats.

"We have full confidence that we will definitely win 16 seats. We have no doubts about it. The majority (winning margins) may vary, but we will win 16," TRS MLC Palla Rajeshwara Reddy said.

TRS has been focused on winning 16 out of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana (leaving Hyderabad seat to its ally AIMIM).

BJP MLC N Ramchander Rao, who is the candidate from Malkajgiri in the Lok Sabha polls, said his party is going to pull off surprises by winning seats in "unexpected numbers".

As per the party's internal surveys, it stands a good chance to win Adilabad and it did well in Nizamabad and Karimnagar, Rao said.

It is a keen contest in Mahabubnagar, Secunderabad and Malkajgiri, he said, adding that the party is expected to win at least two or three among the above mentioned six seats.

State Congress working president Ponnam Prabhakar, who is the party candidate in Karimnagar, said his party is expected do very well in constituencies, including Chevella, Nalgonda, Khammam, Karimnagar, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad and Bhongir.

While some exit polls predicted TRS to win 16 seats, some others gave the ruling party 13-14 seats.

A day ahead of counting of votes for the Parliamentary elections, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in Telangana is upbeat about winning 16 of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats, while opposition Congress and BJP also sounded hopeful of winning a good number of seats.

A day ahead of counting of votes for the Parliamentary elections, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in Telangana is upbeat about winning 16 of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats, while opposition Congress and BJP also sounded hopeful of winning a good number of seats. "We have full confidence that we will definitely win 16 seats. We have no doubts about it. The majority (winning margins) may vary, but we will win 16," TRS MLC Palla Rajeshwara Reddy said. TRS has been focused on winning 16 out of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana (leaving Hyderabad seat to its ally AIMIM). BJP MLC N Ramchander Rao, who is the candidate from Malkajgiri in the Lok Sabha polls, said his party is going to pull off surprises by winning seats in "unexpected numbers". As per the party's internal surveys, it stands a good chance to win Adilabad and it did well in Nizamabad and Karimnagar, Rao said. It is a keen contest in Mahabubnagar, Secunderabad and Malkajgiri, he said, adding that the party is expected to win at least two or three among the above mentioned six seats. State Congress working president Ponnam Prabhakar, who is the party candidate in Karimnagar, said his party is expected do very well in constituencies, including Chevella, Nalgonda, Khammam, Karimnagar, Malkajgiri, Secunderabad and Bhongir. While some exit polls predicted TRS to win 16 seats, some others gave the ruling party 13-14 seats.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: TRS upbeat on 16 seats, BJP hopes to pull off surprises in Telangana

Counting of votes for the 21 Lok Sabha seats and 146 Assembly segments in Odisha will be held at 63 different centres across the state amidst tight security on Thursday, a senior election official has said.

Polling was held in 21 Lok Sabha seats and 146 Assembly segments in four different phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29.

The counting of votes will start from 8 am on Thursday and will be conducted in around 2,500 tables, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S Kumar said on Tuesday.

Each counting hall will have at least seven tables each for Assembly and&nbsp; 
Lok Sabha seats and three officials including a supervisor, a counting assistant and a micro observer will be engaged for each table to ensure free and fair counting of votes, he said.

"Each hall will have 15 tables. Seven tables will be allocated for counting of votes of Lok Sabha seats and seven others for Assembly seats. One more table will be there for postal ballot counting by the returning officer," he said, adding that 6,700 officials have been engaged in vote counting across the state.

The CEO said an observer has been appointed for each counting centre and one observer can take charge of maximum three halls of a centre.

The ECI has granted additional 411 tables for Odisha since the state conducted simultaneous polls for both the Lok Sabha and state Assembly, Kumar said.

Replying a question, he said it has been estimated that each constituency will require an average of 30 rounds of counting. While Sambalpur will record the lowest with 19 rounds of counting per constituency, maximum 49 rounds of counting per constituency will be witnessed in Patnagarh.

The CEO also informed that there has been increase in postal ballots this time which is around 1 lakh against 2014 election's 31,326 postal ballots.

He said counting of postal ballots will be held in the first place and after 30 minutes, the counting of EVM votes will begin.

This will be followed by counting of VVPAT votes, he said, adding that as per the directive of the Supreme Court, the counting of VVPAT votes will be taken up in five booths of each constituency.

"Before actual polling, a mock poll is conducted in each booth. After the mock poll, the presiding officer deletes the mock poll data from the EVM control unit. In case the presiding officer has not deleted the mock poll data, there will be an error. In such cases, the ECI will take a call," he said replying a question.

The polling in Patkura assembly segment in Kendrapara district was postponed in view the death of a candidate and again due to cyclone Fani.&nbsp;

Counting of votes for the 21 Lok Sabha seats and 146 Assembly segments in Odisha will be held at 63 different centres across the state amidst tight security on Thursday, a senior election official has said.

Counting of votes for the 21 Lok Sabha seats and 146 Assembly segments in Odisha will be held at 63 different centres across the state amidst tight security on Thursday, a senior election official has said. Polling was held in 21 Lok Sabha seats and 146 Assembly segments in four different phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will start from 8 am on Thursday and will be conducted in around 2,500 tables, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S Kumar said on Tuesday. Each counting hall will have at least seven tables each for Assembly and Lok Sabha seats and three officials including a supervisor, a counting assistant and a micro observer will be engaged for each table to ensure free and fair counting of votes, he said. "Each hall will have 15 tables. Seven tables will be allocated for counting of votes of Lok Sabha seats and seven others for Assembly seats. One more table will be there for postal ballot counting by the returning officer," he said, adding that 6,700 officials have been engaged in vote counting across the state. The CEO said an observer has been appointed for each counting centre and one observer can take charge of maximum three halls of a centre. The ECI has granted additional 411 tables for Odisha since the state conducted simultaneous polls for both the Lok Sabha and state Assembly, Kumar said. Replying a question, he said it has been estimated that each constituency will require an average of 30 rounds of counting. While Sambalpur will record the lowest with 19 rounds of counting per constituency, maximum 49 rounds of counting per constituency will be witnessed in Patnagarh. The CEO also informed that there has been increase in postal ballots this time which is around 1 lakh against 2014 election's 31,326 postal ballots. He said counting of postal ballots will be held in the first place and after 30 minutes, the counting of EVM votes will begin. This will be followed by counting of VVPAT votes, he said, adding that as per the directive of the Supreme Court, the counting of VVPAT votes will be taken up in five booths of each constituency. "Before actual polling, a mock poll is conducted in each booth. After the mock poll, the presiding officer deletes the mock poll data from the EVM control unit. In case the presiding officer has not deleted the mock poll data, there will be an error. In such cases, the ECI will take a call," he said replying a question. The polling in Patkura assembly segment in Kendrapara district was postponed in view the death of a candidate and again due to cyclone Fani.

Counting of votes to be held in 63 centres in Odisha: Chief Electoral Officer

Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the counting of votes for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Nagaland and by-election to Aonglenden Assembly constituency on Thursday, a top election official has said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha seat and Aonglenden bye-poll was held simultaneously on April 11.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Abhijit Sinha said on Tuesday that there would be three-tier security cordon on the day of counting.

The first and second tier security cordon would be manned by the district executive force, state police and Indian Reserve Battalion personnel and the third and last tier close to the counting hall would be manned by Central Armed Police Force personnel, he said.

The path that would be taken for transportation of EVMs from the strong rooms to the counting halls have been delineated and barricaded and it would be under CCTV coverage, the CEO said.

The counting will commence at 8 am on Thursday in 19 halls in 12 centres for the Lok Sabha polls while counting of votes for the bye-poll will be&nbsp; 
conducted in one hall in Mokokchung district, he said.

The CEO said after completion of last round of counting of votes recorded in the EVM control units of an Assembly segment, there would be mandatory verification of VVPAT paper slips of randomly selected five polling stations of that Assembly segment.

These five polling stations would be selected through a draw of lots by the concerned Assistant Returning Officer in the presence of candidates or their agents and the Observers and counting of VVPATs would be done in a sequential manner.

The lone parliamentary seat in the state witnessed a four-cornered contest between ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) nominee Tokheho Yepthomi, Congress candidate K L Chishi, Hayithung Tungoe of the National People's Party (NPP) and Independent candidate Dr M M Thromwa Konyak.

Tokheho is seeking re-election for the Lok Sabha seat.

The bye-poll to Aonglenden Assembly constituency under Mokokchung district was a straight contest between the Congress nominee Alemjongshi Longkumer and Sharingain Longkumer of ruling NDPP.

The by-poll was necessitated following the demise of sitting ruling MLA Imtikumzuk in September last year.

Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the counting of votes for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Nagaland and by-election to Aonglenden Assembly constituency on Thursday, a top election official has said.

Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the counting of votes for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Nagaland and by-election to Aonglenden Assembly constituency on Thursday, a top election official has said. Polling for the Lok Sabha seat and Aonglenden bye-poll was held simultaneously on April 11. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Abhijit Sinha said on Tuesday that there would be three-tier security cordon on the day of counting. The first and second tier security cordon would be manned by the district executive force, state police and Indian Reserve Battalion personnel and the third and last tier close to the counting hall would be manned by Central Armed Police Force personnel, he said. The path that would be taken for transportation of EVMs from the strong rooms to the counting halls have been delineated and barricaded and it would be under CCTV coverage, the CEO said. The counting will commence at 8 am on Thursday in 19 halls in 12 centres for the Lok Sabha polls while counting of votes for the bye-poll will be conducted in one hall in Mokokchung district, he said. The CEO said after completion of last round of counting of votes recorded in the EVM control units of an Assembly segment, there would be mandatory verification of VVPAT paper slips of randomly selected five polling stations of that Assembly segment. These five polling stations would be selected through a draw of lots by the concerned Assistant Returning Officer in the presence of candidates or their agents and the Observers and counting of VVPATs would be done in a sequential manner. The lone parliamentary seat in the state witnessed a four-cornered contest between ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) nominee Tokheho Yepthomi, Congress candidate K L Chishi, Hayithung Tungoe of the National People's Party (NPP) and Independent candidate Dr M M Thromwa Konyak. Tokheho is seeking re-election for the Lok Sabha seat. The bye-poll to Aonglenden Assembly constituency under Mokokchung district was a straight contest between the Congress nominee Alemjongshi Longkumer and Sharingain Longkumer of ruling NDPP. The by-poll was necessitated following the demise of sitting ruling MLA Imtikumzuk in September last year.

Lok sabha polls 2019: Tight security arrangements for counting of votes in Nagaland

A Delhi court Wednesday reserved for June 7 order on a complaint seeking lodging of an FIR against Rahul Gandhi for his alleged 'Khoon ki Dalali' remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal reserved order on the complaint, filed by advocate Joginder Tuli, which has sought direction to the police to register an FIR against Gandhi for allegedly making derogatory remarks in 2016 against PM Modi, accusing him of hiding behind the blood of soldiers and cashing in on their sacrifice.

The Delhi Police had on May 15 filed an action taken report before the court in which the police had said that Gandhi allegedly made the defamatory statement against the prime minister for which a suit may be filed.

A Delhi court Wednesday reserved for June 7 order on a complaint seeking lodging of an FIR against Rahul Gandhi for his alleged 'Khoon ki Dalali' remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A Delhi court Wednesday reserved for June 7 order on a complaint seeking lodging of an FIR against Rahul Gandhi for his alleged 'Khoon ki Dalali' remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal reserved order on the complaint, filed by advocate Joginder Tuli, which has sought direction to the police to register an FIR against Gandhi for allegedly making derogatory remarks in 2016 against PM Modi, accusing him of hiding behind the blood of soldiers and cashing in on their sacrifice. The Delhi Police had on May 15 filed an action taken report before the court in which the police had said that Gandhi allegedly made the defamatory statement against the prime minister for which a suit may be filed.

'Khoon ki Dalali' remark against PM: Court reserves order on complaint seeking FIR against Rahul

Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time.

67.11 per cent of the 90.99 crore electors had cast their vote in the seven-phase elections.

This is the highest ever voter turnout in Indian parliamentarian elections.

This is for the first time in a Lok Sabha election that results of voting machines will be matched with slips generated by paper trail machines.

The exercise will take place in five polling stations per assembly segment which effectively means that out of nearly 10.3 lakh polling stations, the EVM-VVPAT matching will take place in 20600 such stations.

The Election Commission is yet to provide the number of counting centres being set up for Thursday, saying the data is not centrally available.

As per procedure, postal ballots would be the first to be counted.

Service voters stood at 18 lakh.

These include personnel of the armed forces, central police force personnel and state police personnel who are posted outside their constituencies.

Diplomats and support staff posted in Indian embassies abroad are also counted as service voters.

Out of 18 lakh registered voters, 16.49 lakh have sent their postal ballots to their respective returning officers as on May 17.

The exercise of counting postal ballots manually will itself take a couple of hours at least, an EC official said.

The paper trail machines slips will be counted in the end.

As per the procedure, first the slips will be counted &nbsp;and the EVM displays would be switched on later to match the results.

In case of a mismatch, the results based in paper slip count will be considered as final.

The entire exercise of EVM-Paper trail machine matching will take an additional four to five hours.

Out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, elections were held in 542 constituencies as the EC had cancelled polls to the Vellore constituency on the grounds of excessive use of money power.

The poll panel is yet to announce a fresh date for elections in Vellore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several union ministers, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav are among key leaders who contested the polls.

Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time.

Counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections, in which over 8,000 candidates were in the fray for 542 seats, will begin at 8.00 am Thursday and results are expected only by late evening due to tallying of voter-verified paper audit trail slips with EVM count for the first time. 67.11 per cent of the 90.99 crore electors had cast their vote in the seven-phase elections. This is the highest ever voter turnout in Indian parliamentarian elections. This is for the first time in a Lok Sabha election that results of voting machines will be matched with slips generated by paper trail machines. The exercise will take place in five polling stations per assembly segment which effectively means that out of nearly 10.3 lakh polling stations, the EVM-VVPAT matching will take place in 20600 such stations. The Election Commission is yet to provide the number of counting centres being set up for Thursday, saying the data is not centrally available. As per procedure, postal ballots would be the first to be counted. Service voters stood at 18 lakh. These include personnel of the armed forces, central police force personnel and state police personnel who are posted outside their constituencies. Diplomats and support staff posted in Indian embassies abroad are also counted as service voters. Out of 18 lakh registered voters, 16.49 lakh have sent their postal ballots to their respective returning officers as on May 17. The exercise of counting postal ballots manually will itself take a couple of hours at least, an EC official said. The paper trail machines slips will be counted in the end. As per the procedure, first the slips will be counted and the EVM displays would be switched on later to match the results. In case of a mismatch, the results based in paper slip count will be considered as final. The entire exercise of EVM-Paper trail machine matching will take an additional four to five hours. Out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats, elections were held in 542 constituencies as the EC had cancelled polls to the Vellore constituency on the grounds of excessive use of money power. The poll panel is yet to announce a fresh date for elections in Vellore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several union ministers, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav are among key leaders who contested the polls.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Counting to take place on Thursday, matching VVPAT slips likely to delay results

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech for All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

"The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench?" the Supreme Court asked.

"We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said.

The Supreme Court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 opposition leaders, led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent.

The Supreme Court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a PIL seeking 100 per cent matching of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the counting of votes on May 23 for Lok Sabha polls. A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea filed by a Chennai-based organisation 'Tech for All', saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order. "The CJI had dealt with this matter. Why are you taking chance before a two-judge vacation bench?" the Supreme Court asked. "We cannot override the CJI's order... This is nonsense. The petition is taken on board. Dismissed," Justice Mishra said. The Supreme Court had on May 7 dismissed a review plea filed by 21 opposition leaders, led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, seeking that random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs be increased to 50 per cent. The Supreme Court had on April 8 directed the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs from one to five polling booths per assembly segment in Lok Sabha polls, saying it would provide greater satisfaction not just to political parties but also to the entire electorate.

Supreme Court junks PIL seeking 100% VVPAT matching with EVMs on May 23

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-amit-shah-meet-union-ministers-thank-them-for-service-to-nation-220445">At the BJP-led ruling alliance meeting</a>, which was attended by 36 parties, a resolution was passed, terming the 2019 general election decisive for the country and pledging to make India "strong, developed, prosperous and inclusive" by 2022 when India completes 75 years of its independence, party leader and Union minister Rajnath Singh told reporters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs at a meeting of NDA leaders, even as the ruling alliance laid out its agenda for the next five years if it is elected to power again.

In his address, Modi stressed on the need to change the narrative from caste lines and orient it for the poor, Singh said.

The prime minister expressed concern over the Opposition making "needless controversy" over electronic voting machines, the home minister said.

The resolution was proposed by BJP ally and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami were among the BJP allies who attended the dinner-meeting hosted by BJP president Amit Shah.&nbsp;

At the BJP-led ruling alliance meeting, which was attended by 36 parties, a resolution was passed, terming the 2019 general election decisive for the country and pledging to make India "strong, developed, prosperous and inclusive" by 2022 when India completes 75 years of its independence, party leader and Union minister Rajnath Singh told reporters.

At the BJP-led ruling alliance meeting, which was attended by 36 parties, a resolution was passed, terming the 2019 general election decisive for the country and pledging to make India "strong, developed, prosperous and inclusive" by 2022 when India completes 75 years of its independence, party leader and Union minister Rajnath Singh told reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs at a meeting of NDA leaders, even as the ruling alliance laid out its agenda for the next five years if it is elected to power again. In his address, Modi stressed on the need to change the narrative from caste lines and orient it for the poor, Singh said. The prime minister expressed concern over the Opposition making "needless controversy" over electronic voting machines, the home minister said. The resolution was proposed by BJP ally and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami were among the BJP allies who attended the dinner-meeting hosted by BJP president Amit Shah.

NDA pledges to make India 'strong and developed' by 2022

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats.

The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

"The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact.

He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections.

"Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added.

The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday.

Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections.

Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve said the NDA would improve its 2014 tally in the state by winning 45 out of total 48 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 constituencies in 2014 elections. "The BJP and the Shiv Sena had jointly won 42 seats in 2014 elections, but this time we will win 45 seats. Not a single seat we are going to lose which we had won in 2014," Danve said, adding that the Opposition parties would have to accept this fact. He dismissed the exit poll prediction of the Sena facing any backlash in elections. "Sena had won 18 seats in 2014 and was the biggest partner of BJP in the Centre. I do not think Sena will face any problem," he added. The seven-phase elections to 542 seats of 543-member Lok Sabha ended Sunday. Counting of votes is scheduled for Thursday. Most exit polls have forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that the BJP-led NDA would get over 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

National Democratic Alliance will win 45 seats in Maharashtra, says state BJP chief

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday.

The 'Operation Brasstacks' was a major military exercise of the Indian Army in Rajasthan. It took place in 1986 until its execution in 1987.

The scale of the 2019 general election itself is massive and growing over time as between 1989 and 2019, the number of parties in the fray have increased over 20 times, the size of the electorate has increased by over 80 per cent, the number of polling stations has nearly doubled and the number of contesting candidates has increased by nearly 35 per cent.

"Effectively, nearly 20 lakh personnel of the police and central paramilitary personnel were involved during the elections. The mobilisation of such a large scale is rare anywhere in the world. In fact, India's best known Army exercise 'Operation Brasstacks' (1986-87), where nearly 6-8 lakh personnel were said to have been involved, itself was bigger than any NATO exercise since World War-II," a Home Ministry official said.

The extent of mobilisation of the security forces has also been massive with nearly 25 per cent of the overall strength of central paramilitary forces being deployed for elections this year, indicating the involvement of over three lakh paramilitary personnel.

However, since these officials are redeployed at various locations in different phases, the effective deployment is almost 2.35 times the number of troops actually involved.

Thus, if the elections in 2019 were to be conducted on a single day, the effective requirement would be for over 10 lakh personnel. Similarly, in the 2014 general election, the actual and effective deployments were of the order of 2.5 lakh and 6 lakh, respectively.

In addition to the paramilitary forces and state armed battalions, extensive participation of police personnel belonging to civil police and district armed reserve, along with home guards and special police officers in various capacities, have also been seen.

Even if the participation is taken at 50 per cent of actual strength, this would mean the involvement of nearly 8-10 lakh additional personnel, the official said.

Apart from the mammoth size of election-related mobilisation, the duration is also considerable. This year's general elections were conducted over a period of nearly 40 days (April 11 to May 19) with the counting of votes scheduled to take place on May 23.

Timely mobilisation of nearly 20 lakh personnel within 40 to 45 days is a humongous task. A well thought planning with the Indian Railways, state and various forces play a crucial role in completing the requirement of the Election Commission, another official said.

More than 150 special trains were utilised for mobilisation of troops. These troops criss-cross the length and breadth of the country to meet the requirement of the respective state, the official said.

The core duties of the paramilitary personnel deployed for election duty include instilling a sense of confidence and security among people to exercise their franchise freely without any fear.

The additional responsibilities include maintaining law and order, preventing poll violence and guarding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The Election Commission, in coordination with the Home Ministry, which has the administrative control over the central paramilitary forces, has made an assessment of all aspects having bearing on the election process, including the state-wise and phase-wise requirement of security forces, the official said.

The ministry prepared a deployment plan of various forces like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and the Assam Rifles keeping in view their role in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations and other commitments.

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday.

As many as 20 lakh security personnel were deployed in the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls, rendering the exercise bigger than India's well known 'Operation Brasstacks' in the 1980s, which was larger than any NATO exercise since World War-II, officials said Monday. The 'Operation Brasstacks' was a major military exercise of the Indian Army in Rajasthan. It took place in 1986 until its execution in 1987. The scale of the 2019 general election itself is massive and growing over time as between 1989 and 2019, the number of parties in the fray have increased over 20 times, the size of the electorate has increased by over 80 per cent, the number of polling stations has nearly doubled and the number of contesting candidates has increased by nearly 35 per cent. "Effectively, nearly 20 lakh personnel of the police and central paramilitary personnel were involved during the elections. The mobilisation of such a large scale is rare anywhere in the world. In fact, India's best known Army exercise 'Operation Brasstacks' (1986-87), where nearly 6-8 lakh personnel were said to have been involved, itself was bigger than any NATO exercise since World War-II," a Home Ministry official said. The extent of mobilisation of the security forces has also been massive with nearly 25 per cent of the overall strength of central paramilitary forces being deployed for elections this year, indicating the involvement of over three lakh paramilitary personnel. However, since these officials are redeployed at various locations in different phases, the effective deployment is almost 2.35 times the number of troops actually involved. Thus, if the elections in 2019 were to be conducted on a single day, the effective requirement would be for over 10 lakh personnel. Similarly, in the 2014 general election, the actual and effective deployments were of the order of 2.5 lakh and 6 lakh, respectively. In addition to the paramilitary forces and state armed battalions, extensive participation of police personnel belonging to civil police and district armed reserve, along with home guards and special police officers in various capacities, have also been seen. Even if the participation is taken at 50 per cent of actual strength, this would mean the involvement of nearly 8-10 lakh additional personnel, the official said. Apart from the mammoth size of election-related mobilisation, the duration is also considerable. This year's general elections were conducted over a period of nearly 40 days (April 11 to May 19) with the counting of votes scheduled to take place on May 23. Timely mobilisation of nearly 20 lakh personnel within 40 to 45 days is a humongous task. A well thought planning with the Indian Railways, state and various forces play a crucial role in completing the requirement of the Election Commission, another official said. More than 150 special trains were utilised for mobilisation of troops. These troops criss-cross the length and breadth of the country to meet the requirement of the respective state, the official said. The core duties of the paramilitary personnel deployed for election duty include instilling a sense of confidence and security among people to exercise their franchise freely without any fear. The additional responsibilities include maintaining law and order, preventing poll violence and guarding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The Election Commission, in coordination with the Home Ministry, which has the administrative control over the central paramilitary forces, has made an assessment of all aspects having bearing on the election process, including the state-wise and phase-wise requirement of security forces, the official said. The ministry prepared a deployment plan of various forces like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB and the Assam Rifles keeping in view their role in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations and other commitments.

20 lakh security men deployed in Lok Sabha polls, mobilisation was bigger than Army's 'Operation Brasstacks'

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks.

A resolution to redefine four of the seven base units was passed by representatives of 60 countries at the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris on November 16 last year.

However, it has been implemented across the world on May 20 -- World Meteorology Day, Shekhar Mande, Director General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), said.

Over 100 countries have adopted the metric system of measurements, also known as the International System of Units (SI), which has been in practice since 1889.

The other base units are -- second, metre and candela.

"The fundamental constants are invariants of time and space and have successfully replaced the artefact based units, and aptly opened up the new era for quantum world by linking all seven base units to fundamental constants or quantum standards," said K Aswal, Director of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), one of the oldest scientific institutes in the country that also takes care of setting meteorology standards domestically.

The purpose of system units is to enable worldwide coherence of measurements. The International System of Units (SI) was formalised in 1960 and has been updated several times to account for development in measurement technology.

"Since the 1960s, we have to rely ever more heavily on advanced science and engineering in our day-to-day lives, and also in manufacturing, healthcare and science. The proposed changes in the unit definition have been designed to have no immediate consequences," he said.

"The unit redefinitions represent a profound change of perspective and they are expected to form the foundations of improved measurements for decades to come as science and technology continues to develop in a way we cannot currently foresee," Aswal said, however, this "may not change anything drastically", but it will matter when it comes to measurements less than a kilogramme. For instance, measuring smaller diamonds.

The NPL has also sent recommendations on the proposed changes to be incorporated in the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to implement them in contemporary education, he said. 
Recommendations on the proposed changes have also been sent to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other academic institutes to be incorporated in syllabi of metrology courses in graduate engineering and academic courses.&nbsp;

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks.

India on May 20 adopted a global resolution to redefine four of the seven base units — kilogramme, Kelvin, mole and ampere, a move expected to have far-reaching effects, including changes in textbooks. A resolution to redefine four of the seven base units was passed by representatives of 60 countries at the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris on November 16 last year. However, it has been implemented across the world on May 20 -- World Meteorology Day, Shekhar Mande, Director General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), said. Over 100 countries have adopted the metric system of measurements, also known as the International System of Units (SI), which has been in practice since 1889. The other base units are -- second, metre and candela. "The fundamental constants are invariants of time and space and have successfully replaced the artefact based units, and aptly opened up the new era for quantum world by linking all seven base units to fundamental constants or quantum standards," said K Aswal, Director of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), one of the oldest scientific institutes in the country that also takes care of setting meteorology standards domestically. The purpose of system units is to enable worldwide coherence of measurements. The International System of Units (SI) was formalised in 1960 and has been updated several times to account for development in measurement technology. "Since the 1960s, we have to rely ever more heavily on advanced science and engineering in our day-to-day lives, and also in manufacturing, healthcare and science. The proposed changes in the unit definition have been designed to have no immediate consequences," he said. "The unit redefinitions represent a profound change of perspective and they are expected to form the foundations of improved measurements for decades to come as science and technology continues to develop in a way we cannot currently foresee," Aswal said, however, this "may not change anything drastically", but it will matter when it comes to measurements less than a kilogramme. For instance, measuring smaller diamonds. The NPL has also sent recommendations on the proposed changes to be incorporated in the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to implement them in contemporary education, he said. Recommendations on the proposed changes have also been sent to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other academic institutes to be incorporated in syllabi of metrology courses in graduate engineering and academic courses.

India adopts new standards for measuring units kilogram, kelvin, mole & ampere

On a day Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora and fellow commissioner Sushil Chandra turned down his demand to incorporate minority view in orders relating to model code violations, Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa Tuesday said he still believes that transparency is important and such cases should be dealt in a time-bound manner.

Talking to PTI after the meeting, Lavasa refused to comment on the issue of Commission maintaining a status quo, saying, "minutes of the meeting will be drawn, instructions will be issued. Only then there would be clarity."

"In the meeting of the Election Commission held today regarding the issue of MCC (Model Code of Conduct), it was, inter alia, decided that proceedings of the commission's meeting would be drawn, including the views of all the commission members," the Commission said in a statement after the meeting, which lasted for more than two hours.

"Thereafter, formal instructions to this effect would be issued in consonance with extant laws/rules, etc," it further said.

Lavasa said, "Till the time there is clarity on the reasoning of the views, it is premature to say (anything)."

He said he continues to "say that transparency is important ... Minority view should be included and there should be time-bound procedures. My view is very clear."

Explaining the order, a Commission official said dissent notes and minority views would remain part of records of the poll panel.

Lavasa had dissented on a series of clean chits given by the Commission to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on their speeches during the election campaign.

As his demand to record his dissent notes in EC's orders was not met, Lavasa recused himself from cases relating to relating to violations of model code of conduct.

In a strongly-worded letter to Arora on May 4, Lavasa is learnt to have said that he is being forced to stay away from the meetings of the full commission since minority decisions are not being recorded.

In Tuesday's meeting, Lavasa stuck to his ground, pressing for his demand to include dissenting views in the orders.

The EC had maintained that the dissent notes cannot be made part of the order as poll code violation cases are not quasi-judicial in nature and that they are not signed by the chief election commissioner (CEC) and fellow commissioners.

"They are like executive orders. They are summary decisions where a decision is taken by the EC without hearing out counsels of the two parties. The orders are brief which are not signed by the three commissioners," explained the official.

Such orders are usually signed by the principal secretary concerned or secretary of the EC, the official said.

Lavasa had dissented in as many as five of the 11 EC decisions involving complaints against Modi and Shah for alleged MCC violation and where they were given a clean chit.&nbsp;

An official said the EC is likely to come out with a circular clearly outlining the procedure relating to complaints of the poll code violation.

"Status quo will be maintained. Dissent will not be made public but would form part of EC records," explained an official.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

As per the law governing the functioning of the EC, efforts should be to have unanimity but in cases of dissent, a majority (2:1) view prevails.

In his May 4 letter, Lavasa is learnt to have also said that his participation in EC meeting is "meaningless" as his dissent remained unrecorded.&nbsp;

He had said that his notes on the need for transparency have not been responded to because of which he has decided to stay away from meetings on model code-related complaints.

Sources said Lavasa had written to the CEC about the issue on at least three occasions.&nbsp;

On a day Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora and fellow commissioner Sushil Chandra turned down his demand to incorporate minority view in orders relating to model code violations, Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa Tuesday said he still believes that transparency is important and such cases should be dealt in a time-bound manner.

On a day Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora and fellow commissioner Sushil Chandra turned down his demand to incorporate minority view in orders relating to model code violations, Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa Tuesday said he still believes that transparency is important and such cases should be dealt in a time-bound manner. Talking to PTI after the meeting, Lavasa refused to comment on the issue of Commission maintaining a status quo, saying, "minutes of the meeting will be drawn, instructions will be issued. Only then there would be clarity." "In the meeting of the Election Commission held today regarding the issue of MCC (Model Code of Conduct), it was, inter alia, decided that proceedings of the commission's meeting would be drawn, including the views of all the commission members," the Commission said in a statement after the meeting, which lasted for more than two hours. "Thereafter, formal instructions to this effect would be issued in consonance with extant laws/rules, etc," it further said. Lavasa said, "Till the time there is clarity on the reasoning of the views, it is premature to say (anything)." He said he continues to "say that transparency is important ... Minority view should be included and there should be time-bound procedures. My view is very clear." Explaining the order, a Commission official said dissent notes and minority views would remain part of records of the poll panel. Lavasa had dissented on a series of clean chits given by the Commission to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on their speeches during the election campaign. As his demand to record his dissent notes in EC's orders was not met, Lavasa recused himself from cases relating to relating to violations of model code of conduct. In a strongly-worded letter to Arora on May 4, Lavasa is learnt to have said that he is being forced to stay away from the meetings of the full commission since minority decisions are not being recorded. In Tuesday's meeting, Lavasa stuck to his ground, pressing for his demand to include dissenting views in the orders. The EC had maintained that the dissent notes cannot be made part of the order as poll code violation cases are not quasi-judicial in nature and that they are not signed by the chief election commissioner (CEC) and fellow commissioners. "They are like executive orders. They are summary decisions where a decision is taken by the EC without hearing out counsels of the two parties. The orders are brief which are not signed by the three commissioners," explained the official. Such orders are usually signed by the principal secretary concerned or secretary of the EC, the official said. Lavasa had dissented in as many as five of the 11 EC decisions involving complaints against Modi and Shah for alleged MCC violation and where they were given a clean chit. An official said the EC is likely to come out with a circular clearly outlining the procedure relating to complaints of the poll code violation. "Status quo will be maintained. Dissent will not be made public but would form part of EC records," explained an official. As per the law governing the functioning of the EC, efforts should be to have unanimity but in cases of dissent, a majority (2:1) view prevails. In his May 4 letter, Lavasa is learnt to have also said that his participation in EC meeting is "meaningless" as his dissent remained unrecorded. He had said that his notes on the need for transparency have not been responded to because of which he has decided to stay away from meetings on model code-related complaints. Sources said Lavasa had written to the CEC about the issue on at least three occasions.

I still say transparency is important: Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa