Currently in London, UK to attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met his brother and&nbsp;Pakistan Muslim League-N supremo, Nawaz Sharif. At the meeting, the duo agreed on holding the next general elections in the country at a stipulated time.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, the brothers, whilst talking about the next general elections, also agreed that the current coalition government will complete its constitutional term.&nbsp;

The Pakistan PM talking about the elections comes in the backdrop of former PM Imran Khan putting incessant pressure on the ruling government to hold the voting.

As reported by WION, in a public rally in&nbsp;Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's (K-P) Charsadda district last week, Imran&nbsp;called Sharif's government, an 'imported government' and urged it to allow the 'change' to come through votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If you stop this ‘peaceful revolution’ then as World Bank has predicted the game [situation] would get out of everyone’s hand. Let the change come through vote,” said Imran.&nbsp;

“No matter what you do you cannot win this match you have already lost this match...economy is sinking fast and the world is not willing to give them [government] financial aid for flood victims.” he further added.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/you-cant-stop-this-revolution-imran-khan-challenges-shehbaz-sharifs-imported-government-517296">'You can't stop this revolution', Imran Khan challenges Shehbaz Sharif's 'imported' government</a>

The&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief has repeatedly accused Sharif is delaying the elections so that he can appoint a 'patriotic'&nbsp;army chief that toes his line.&nbsp;

However, on Saturday,&nbsp;Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif informed the media that PM Sharif will be appointing the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) come November.&nbsp;

“Former premier Nawaz Sharif has fulfilled this political responsibility four times and Shehbaz will do the same in November,” Khwaja told the reporters.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-to-appoint-next-army-chief-in-november-says-defence-minister-asif-517303">Pakistan PM to appoint next Army chief in November, says Defence Minister Asif</a>

The minister also trained his guns on Imran Khan by adding,&nbsp;“He just wants to make the Army Chief’s appointment controversial. Politics is separate but institutions should not be made controversial.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Currently in London, UK to attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met his brother and Pakistan Muslim League-N supremo, Nawaz Sharif.

Currently in London, UK to attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met his brother and Pakistan Muslim League-N supremo, Nawaz Sharif. At the meeting, the duo agreed on holding the next general elections in the country at a stipulated time. According to local media reports, the brothers, whilst talking about the next general elections, also agreed that the current coalition government will complete its constitutional term. The Pakistan PM talking about the elections comes in the backdrop of former PM Imran Khan putting incessant pressure on the ruling government to hold the voting. As reported by WION, in a public rally in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's (K-P) Charsadda district last week, Imran called Sharif's government, an 'imported government' and urged it to allow the 'change' to come through votes. “If you stop this ‘peaceful revolution’ then as World Bank has predicted the game [situation] would get out of everyone’s hand. Let the change come through vote,” said Imran. “No matter what you do you cannot win this match you have already lost this match...economy is sinking fast and the world is not willing to give them [government] financial aid for flood victims.” he further added. Read more: 'You can't stop this revolution', Imran Khan challenges Shehbaz Sharif's 'imported' government The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief has repeatedly accused Sharif is delaying the elections so that he can appoint a 'patriotic' army chief that toes his line. However, on Saturday, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif informed the media that PM Sharif will be appointing the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) come November. “Former premier Nawaz Sharif has fulfilled this political responsibility four times and Shehbaz will do the same in November,” Khwaja told the reporters. Read more: Pakistan PM to appoint next Army chief in November, says Defence Minister Asif The minister also trained his guns on Imran Khan by adding, “He just wants to make the Army Chief’s appointment controversial. Politics is separate but institutions should not be made controversial.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif agrees to hold general elections: Sources

The Iraqi parliament&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday reopened registration for candidates to run for president, a contest already behind schedule following last October's general&nbsp;election.

MPs, whose job it is to elect the president, a largely ceremonial role reserved for a Kurd, set a three-day period for candidates to register, an AFP correspondent inside parliament said, by a&nbsp;vote&nbsp;of 203 in favour from 265 who attended a special session.

Lack of a quorum and legal issues have held up the contest, adding to war-scarred&nbsp;Iraq's political uncertainty because the president has to name a prime minister from the largest bloc in parliament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-a-long-road-ahead-for-iraqs-pledge-to-phase-out-gas-flares-458844">It's a long road ahead for Iraq's pledge to phase out gas flares</a>

On&nbsp;February 13,&nbsp;Iraq's supreme court ruled out a bid by frontrunner and veteran politician Hoshyar Zebari to run for president after a complaint filed against him over years-old corruption charges.

His exclusion, from a field of some 25 candidates after an initial registration, appeared to clear the way for his main challenger, incumbent President Barham Saleh, expected to run for a second term.

Iraqi politics have been in turmoil since the October 2021 general&nbsp;elections, which were marred by a record-low turnout, post-election&nbsp;threats and violence, and a delay of several months until final results were confirmed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pope-francis-arrives-in-baghdad-for-risky-historic-iraq-tour-368258">Pope Francis lands in Iraq on first-ever papal visit</a>

Intense negotiations among political groups have since failed to form a majority parliamentary coalition to name a new prime minister to succeed Mustafa al-Kadhemi.

The largest political bloc led by firebrand Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr, had backed Zebari for the presidency.

The Iraqi parliament on Saturday reopened registration for candidates to run for president, a contest already behind schedule following last October's general election.

The Iraqi parliament on Saturday reopened registration for candidates to run for president, a contest already behind schedule following last October's general election. MPs, whose job it is to elect the president, a largely ceremonial role reserved for a Kurd, set a three-day period for candidates to register, an AFP correspondent inside parliament said, by a vote of 203 in favour from 265 who attended a special session. Lack of a quorum and legal issues have held up the contest, adding to war-scarred Iraq's political uncertainty because the president has to name a prime minister from the largest bloc in parliament. Also read | It's a long road ahead for Iraq's pledge to phase out gas flares On February 13, Iraq's supreme court ruled out a bid by frontrunner and veteran politician Hoshyar Zebari to run for president after a complaint filed against him over years-old corruption charges. His exclusion, from a field of some 25 candidates after an initial registration, appeared to clear the way for his main challenger, incumbent President Barham Saleh, expected to run for a second term. Iraqi politics have been in turmoil since the October 2021 general elections, which were marred by a record-low turnout, post-election threats and violence, and a delay of several months until final results were confirmed. Also read | Pope Francis lands in Iraq on first-ever papal visit Intense negotiations among political groups have since failed to form a majority parliamentary coalition to name a new prime minister to succeed Mustafa al-Kadhemi. The largest political bloc led by firebrand Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr, had backed Zebari for the presidency.

Iraq's delayed presidential vote back on

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's CDU scored a convincing win in the final regional vote before the first general election without her at the helm of the party. The CDU won around 37%of the vote, well ahead of the second-place far-right party AfD on 21%.

Merkel's party wins last state poll before general election

African country Niger is all set to votes in an general election today to elect its next president that is expected to lead to the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country reeling from Islamist violence.

Niger braces for first democratic transition of power

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains.

Lee, 68, was re-elected from his Group Representation Constituency (GRC) of Ang Mo Kio. The prime minister led his party's GRC team of Gan Thiam Poh, Darryl David, Ng Ling Ling and Nadia Ahmad Samdin.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat was also re-elected. His team included Maliki Osman, Jessica Tan, Cheryl Chan and Tan Kiat How of the East Coast GRC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/masked-singapore-locals-come-out-to-cast-vote-in-new-normal-style-312177">Have a look|&nbsp;Masked Singapore locals come out to cast vote in 'new normal' style</a>

The Opposition Workers' Party -- led by Indian-origin leader Pritam Singh -- won 10 seats, including the GRC of Sengkang where it defeated the PAP's team led by Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Ng Chee Meng. Meng is also the Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress.

Singh and his team retained the Aljunied GRC. Party member Dennis Tan retained the single member constituency seat of Hougang, defeating the PAP's Lee Hong Chuang. The Workers' Party had secured six seats in the last General election in 2015.

Some 2.65 million Singaporeans donning face masks and gloves voted in the elections for selecting 93 members of Parliament out of 192 candidates contesting for seats through 17 GRCs which groups together candidates in four or five, and 14 Single Member Constituencies.

The PAP has ruled Singapore since independence with absolute majority. Eleven political parties, including the PAP, campaigned for nine days amid the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 that has pushed the city-state's economy towards the worst-ever recession in nearly two decades.

In a bid to enhance the safety of voting amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of polling stations was increased from 880 to 1,100.

Prime Minister Lee last month called for general elections 10 months ahead of schedule to "clear the decks" and give the new government a fresh five-year mandate to focus on the national agenda.

Lee's PAP has won every election since the late 1950s. The ruling PAP is the only party with candidates contesting on all 93 seats. This is the second general election that the opposition has fielded candidates in all seats in Parliament.

In the last elections in September 2015, the PAP contested all 89 seats and won 83 of them, an absolute majority in the house.

Lee, who is the country's third prime minister, has led the government since 2004. His father Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore's first prime minister and he transformed the city-state into an affluent nation during his 31-year rule.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has returned to power, winning 83 of the 93 seats contested in Friday's General Election, even as the Opposition registered minor gains. Lee, 68, was re-elected from his Group Representation Constituency (GRC) of Ang Mo Kio. The prime minister led his party's GRC team of Gan Thiam Poh, Darryl David, Ng Ling Ling and Nadia Ahmad Samdin. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat was also re-elected. His team included Maliki Osman, Jessica Tan, Cheryl Chan and Tan Kiat How of the East Coast GRC. Have a look| Masked Singapore locals come out to cast vote in 'new normal' style The Opposition Workers' Party -- led by Indian-origin leader Pritam Singh -- won 10 seats, including the GRC of Sengkang where it defeated the PAP's team led by Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Ng Chee Meng. Meng is also the Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress. Singh and his team retained the Aljunied GRC. Party member Dennis Tan retained the single member constituency seat of Hougang, defeating the PAP's Lee Hong Chuang. The Workers' Party had secured six seats in the last General election in 2015. Some 2.65 million Singaporeans donning face masks and gloves voted in the elections for selecting 93 members of Parliament out of 192 candidates contesting for seats through 17 GRCs which groups together candidates in four or five, and 14 Single Member Constituencies. The PAP has ruled Singapore since independence with absolute majority. Eleven political parties, including the PAP, campaigned for nine days amid the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 that has pushed the city-state's economy towards the worst-ever recession in nearly two decades. In a bid to enhance the safety of voting amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of polling stations was increased from 880 to 1,100. Prime Minister Lee last month called for general elections 10 months ahead of schedule to "clear the decks" and give the new government a fresh five-year mandate to focus on the national agenda. Lee's PAP has won every election since the late 1950s. The ruling PAP is the only party with candidates contesting on all 93 seats. This is the second general election that the opposition has fielded candidates in all seats in Parliament. In the last elections in September 2015, the PAP contested all 89 seats and won 83 of them, an absolute majority in the house. Lee, who is the country's third prime minister, has led the government since 2004. His father Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore's first prime minister and he transformed the city-state into an affluent nation during his 31-year rule.

Singapore's ruling PAP wins general election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row&nbsp;this year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-vote-in-the-third-general-election-in-a-year-will-netanyahu-reach-the-magic-number-283622">Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?</a>

The polls indicated that Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party gained about 37 seats while Gantz's centrist Blue and White party got 32-34 seats in the elections that were held on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency.

Meanwhile, the exit polls also showed that Netanyahu's party and allies gained 59 or 60 seats, meaning the bloc fell short of two or one seat(s) needed for a majority coalition in Israel's 120-seat Parliament or Knesset.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mired-in-stalemate-israel-holds-another-election-on-netanyahus-future-283660">Mired in stalemate, Israel holds another election on Netanyahu's future</a>

But exit polls indicate that he could still end up struggling to overhaul the majority mark. On your screens right now are the exit poll numbers.

The far-right bloc led by Netanyahu's Likud party is expected to win around 59 seats — which is 2 less than the majority mark. The opposing bloc led by the blue and white alliance is projected to win 54 seats.

And just like last time — Avigdor Lieberman and his Yisrael Beiteinu have emerged as the possible kingmaker with 7 seats.

There were major celebrations at the Likud party headquarters as Benjamin Netanyahu arrived. The prime minister thanked the voters for giving him what he called 'a huge victory for Israel'.

Netanyahu vowed to form a strong national govt after speaking to all the right-wing parties in Israel. And promised to come good on his campaign promises — which include the annexation of the west bank, and the revival of the economy.

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This could, however, be easier said than done. If these exit poll numbers hold — then Netanyahu is still 2 seats short.

And the obvious person the prime minister will turn to — is Avigdor Lieberman. But Lieberman has ruled out joining Netanyahu's bloc.

He says he will only support a unity govt. While these numbers indicate a mandate inclined towards Netanyahu — it is by no means conclusive.

And experts believe the political deadlock could very well continue.Over in the blue and white headquarters — the scene was exactly the opposite.

Speaking to his supporters, Benny Gantz said that he was disappointed by the exit polls and said he hoped the actual results would be different.

At the same time, he promised to continue his opposition to the prime minister.As of now, 9 per cent of the votes have been counted. The Likud party is firmly ahead with 32 per cent. While the blue and white is trailing with 24 per cent of the votes.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row this year. Also read: Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party is on track to emerge as a winner in country's third election in a row this year. Also read: Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number? The polls indicated that Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party gained about 37 seats while Gantz's centrist Blue and White party got 32-34 seats in the elections that were held on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency. Meanwhile, the exit polls also showed that Netanyahu's party and allies gained 59 or 60 seats, meaning the bloc fell short of two or one seat(s) needed for a majority coalition in Israel's 120-seat Parliament or Knesset. Also see: Mired in stalemate, Israel holds another election on Netanyahu's future But exit polls indicate that he could still end up struggling to overhaul the majority mark. On your screens right now are the exit poll numbers. The far-right bloc led by Netanyahu's Likud party is expected to win around 59 seats — which is 2 less than the majority mark. The opposing bloc led by the blue and white alliance is projected to win 54 seats. And just like last time — Avigdor Lieberman and his Yisrael Beiteinu have emerged as the possible kingmaker with 7 seats. There were major celebrations at the Likud party headquarters as Benjamin Netanyahu arrived. The prime minister thanked the voters for giving him what he called 'a huge victory for Israel'. Netanyahu vowed to form a strong national govt after speaking to all the right-wing parties in Israel. And promised to come good on his campaign promises — which include the annexation of the west bank, and the revival of the economy. × This could, however, be easier said than done. If these exit poll numbers hold — then Netanyahu is still 2 seats short. And the obvious person the prime minister will turn to — is Avigdor Lieberman. But Lieberman has ruled out joining Netanyahu's bloc. He says he will only support a unity govt. While these numbers indicate a mandate inclined towards Netanyahu — it is by no means conclusive. And experts believe the political deadlock could very well continue.Over in the blue and white headquarters — the scene was exactly the opposite. Speaking to his supporters, Benny Gantz said that he was disappointed by the exit polls and said he hoped the actual results would be different. At the same time, he promised to continue his opposition to the prime minister.As of now, 9 per cent of the votes have been counted. The Likud party is firmly ahead with 32 per cent. While the blue and white is trailing with 24 per cent of the votes.

Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party on course to win Israel's election: Exit polls

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister.&nbsp;The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-is-israel-holding-its-third-election-in-a-year-283555">Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year?</a>

The earlier two elections have ended in a stalemate. Netanyahu has vowed to build settlements in East Jerusalem ahead of the third round of elections in the country.

But will this gambit help Netanyahu reach the magic number?

Israel is no stranger to political uncertainty. But what is happening now in Israel is unprecedented.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-tries-to-poach-russian-vote-from-old-rival-283601">Also read: Israel's Netanyahu tries to poach 'Russian vote' from old rival</a> 
 
For the first time in its history — Israel is holding 3 back to back general elections. And when a sitting prime minister has been indicted on serious charges of corruption.

According to opinion polls, corruption charges haven't pulled away from traditional Likud party voters. And by building settlements in east Jerusalem, Netanyahu hopes to bring in more hardline voters to his party.

What Netanyahu needs is a coalition which can form a majority in the 120 member Knesset.

"What you guys have to really do is you have to annihilate this line which is not such an easy thing to do. You have to finish annihilating. If we do it in pieces it's one thing, if we do it completely, then you have to delineate all the problems," Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister, Israel.

First mooted in 1995, the plan was shelved by successive Israeli governments due to international condemnation.

"Netanyahu, I will vote for Netanyahu. But I think that what Netanyahu does here is something wrong and dangerous because the Jewish people are not to decide, and the leaders of the Jewish people are not to decide the future, the limits, the borders until we get the full borders of the land of Israel as promised in the bible from god to our patriarchs," said Daniella Weiss, Israeli Orthodox settlement movement activist.

But expansionist pledges during campaigning aren't anything new for Netanyahu. In April 2019, Netanyahu had announced his intention to annex all current settlements in the occupied west bank.&nbsp;

By September 2019, Netanyahu upped the ante. Promising that if he is re-elected, he would claim Israeli sovereignty over a third of the occupied west bank. And now, he has floated a campaign promise to build 3500 homes for Israeli settlers in east Jerusalem.

But the election is still neck and neck. Netanyahu has met his match in Benny Gantz, a former Israeli army chief turned politician. His blue and white party for the first time won more votes than the Likud. Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival. And Benny Gantz is unwilling to cede an inch.

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister. The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out.

For the third time in a span of less than a year, Israel will be voting to elect its next prime minister. The incumbent and the longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has his task cut out. Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year? The earlier two elections have ended in a stalemate. Netanyahu has vowed to build settlements in East Jerusalem ahead of the third round of elections in the country. But will this gambit help Netanyahu reach the magic number? Israel is no stranger to political uncertainty. But what is happening now in Israel is unprecedented. Also read: Israel's Netanyahu tries to poach 'Russian vote' from old rival For the first time in its history — Israel is holding 3 back to back general elections. And when a sitting prime minister has been indicted on serious charges of corruption. According to opinion polls, corruption charges haven't pulled away from traditional Likud party voters. And by building settlements in east Jerusalem, Netanyahu hopes to bring in more hardline voters to his party. What Netanyahu needs is a coalition which can form a majority in the 120 member Knesset. "What you guys have to really do is you have to annihilate this line which is not such an easy thing to do. You have to finish annihilating. If we do it in pieces it's one thing, if we do it completely, then you have to delineate all the problems," Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister, Israel. First mooted in 1995, the plan was shelved by successive Israeli governments due to international condemnation. "Netanyahu, I will vote for Netanyahu. But I think that what Netanyahu does here is something wrong and dangerous because the Jewish people are not to decide, and the leaders of the Jewish people are not to decide the future, the limits, the borders until we get the full borders of the land of Israel as promised in the bible from god to our patriarchs," said Daniella Weiss, Israeli Orthodox settlement movement activist. But expansionist pledges during campaigning aren't anything new for Netanyahu. In April 2019, Netanyahu had announced his intention to annex all current settlements in the occupied west bank. By September 2019, Netanyahu upped the ante. Promising that if he is re-elected, he would claim Israeli sovereignty over a third of the occupied west bank. And now, he has floated a campaign promise to build 3500 homes for Israeli settlers in east Jerusalem. But the election is still neck and neck. Netanyahu has met his match in Benny Gantz, a former Israeli army chief turned politician. His blue and white party for the first time won more votes than the Likud. Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival. And Benny Gantz is unwilling to cede an inch.

Israelis vote in the third general election in a year: Will Netanyahu reach the magic number?

The United Kingdom is heading for its third general election since 2015 and Britain has not faced a more critical election in decades than the one it faces today. 
&nbsp; 
The country’s future direction, its place in the world and even its territorial integrity are all at stake, primarily because this is a decisive election for Brexit. 
&nbsp; 
The next Prime Minister is going to be either Boris johnson, whose main agenda is “getting Brexit done” regardless of the consequences or Jeremy Corbyn, who with a Labour-led government will try to remodel society with a programme of nationalisation and public spending. 
&nbsp; 
The Britons have been confronted with two drastically different visions for what comes next and must decide between two very different persons to lead them there. 
&nbsp; 
Candidates have dutifully appeared in a checklist of traditional election photo ops, they have read books to bored school children and piped campaign messages onto doughnuts. 
&nbsp; 
From touring fish markets to making coffee, all the contesting parties have left no stone unturned to try and ensure that the ballot swings in their favour.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Boris Johnson is affixed to his only slogan and insists that only Tories can "get Brexit done." 
&nbsp; 
The Prime Minister took a visit to Derby putting his culinary skills to test and cooked a pie on the last day of his election campaign and compared his pie to Brexit by saying getting UK out of the European Union bloc is as easy as making a pie. 
&nbsp; 
Johnson even drove a bulldozer through a wall of foam bricks with the words 'Gridlock' written on it. 
&nbsp; 
His last campaign speech had only one message - break the Brexit deadlock. 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has vowed that to end austerity and give "hope to the next generation".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Corbyn started his final day of election campaigning in Glasgow, making paper reindeers with children at primary schools across the country. 
&nbsp; 
The leader of the Liberal Democrats Jo Swinson has pitched her promise to stop Brexit in Surrey.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Swinson told the supporters that the time is short to stop UK from exiting the EU bloc and added that if they win they will stop the withdrawal process.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Scotland National Party's Nicola Sturgeon made her final pitch to voters too and was spotted at Edinburgh's Green Grocers, wrapping candles, urging voters to stop Boris Johnson being Prime Minister. 
&nbsp; 
The Conservatives have been consistently leading the opinion polls, with the latest poll forecast showing the Conservatives taking 339 seats - which is up by 22 seats from the last general election in 2017.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The left-wing Labour Party is estimated to take 231 seats - which is down by 31 in comparison to 2017. 
&nbsp; 
The Scottish Nationalist Party is on course for 41 seats while the Liberal Democrats are estimated to secure only 15 seats. 
&nbsp; 
According to You-gov poll, Conservatives are set to gather 339 seats with 43 per cent vote share. 
&nbsp; 
The Labour Party is trailing behind with 231 seats and 34 per cent vote share. 
&nbsp; 
But what's encouraging for the Labour Party has been the trajectory. As over the past week, the Conservatives' lead over the Tories has come down from 12 points to 9. 
&nbsp; 
Implying that the slender majority of 28 is not something Boris Johnson can rely on.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is not expected to win any seats as per this projection. However, it is important to note that the Brexit Party is not contesting seats where the Tories have a strong foothold.

The Scottish National Party is expected to sweep the electorate in Scotland with 41 seats. 
&nbsp; 
London braces for a rare winter election that could be affected by inclement weather across Britain, significantly affecting the turnout in what many are styling a landmark vote that will determine the outcome of Britain's future.

The United Kingdom is heading for its third general election since 2015 and Britain has not faced a more critical election in decades than the one it faces today.

The United Kingdom is heading for its third general election since 2015 and Britain has not faced a more critical election in decades than the one it faces today. The country’s future direction, its place in the world and even its territorial integrity are all at stake, primarily because this is a decisive election for Brexit. The next Prime Minister is going to be either Boris johnson, whose main agenda is “getting Brexit done” regardless of the consequences or Jeremy Corbyn, who with a Labour-led government will try to remodel society with a programme of nationalisation and public spending. The Britons have been confronted with two drastically different visions for what comes next and must decide between two very different persons to lead them there. Candidates have dutifully appeared in a checklist of traditional election photo ops, they have read books to bored school children and piped campaign messages onto doughnuts. From touring fish markets to making coffee, all the contesting parties have left no stone unturned to try and ensure that the ballot swings in their favour. Boris Johnson is affixed to his only slogan and insists that only Tories can "get Brexit done." The Prime Minister took a visit to Derby putting his culinary skills to test and cooked a pie on the last day of his election campaign and compared his pie to Brexit by saying getting UK out of the European Union bloc is as easy as making a pie. Johnson even drove a bulldozer through a wall of foam bricks with the words 'Gridlock' written on it. His last campaign speech had only one message - break the Brexit deadlock. Meanwhile, Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has vowed that to end austerity and give "hope to the next generation". Corbyn started his final day of election campaigning in Glasgow, making paper reindeers with children at primary schools across the country. The leader of the Liberal Democrats Jo Swinson has pitched her promise to stop Brexit in Surrey. Swinson told the supporters that the time is short to stop UK from exiting the EU bloc and added that if they win they will stop the withdrawal process. The Scotland National Party's Nicola Sturgeon made her final pitch to voters too and was spotted at Edinburgh's Green Grocers, wrapping candles, urging voters to stop Boris Johnson being Prime Minister. The Conservatives have been consistently leading the opinion polls, with the latest poll forecast showing the Conservatives taking 339 seats - which is up by 22 seats from the last general election in 2017. The left-wing Labour Party is estimated to take 231 seats - which is down by 31 in comparison to 2017. The Scottish Nationalist Party is on course for 41 seats while the Liberal Democrats are estimated to secure only 15 seats. According to You-gov poll, Conservatives are set to gather 339 seats with 43 per cent vote share. The Labour Party is trailing behind with 231 seats and 34 per cent vote share. But what's encouraging for the Labour Party has been the trajectory. As over the past week, the Conservatives' lead over the Tories has come down from 12 points to 9. Implying that the slender majority of 28 is not something Boris Johnson can rely on. Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is not expected to win any seats as per this projection. However, it is important to note that the Brexit Party is not contesting seats where the Tories have a strong foothold. The Scottish National Party is expected to sweep the electorate in Scotland with 41 seats. London braces for a rare winter election that could be affected by inclement weather across Britain, significantly affecting the turnout in what many are styling a landmark vote that will determine the outcome of Britain's future.

With Conservatives leading polls, Britain heads to landmark winter election to determine its road ahead

Britain votes in a crucial general election on Thursday, with latest opinion polls showing Prime Minister Boris Johnson locked in a tight battle to win a majority and deliver his Brexit plans.

Here is an outline of the possible outcomes:

Conservative majority

A Johnson victory, regaining the Conservative majority lost in 2017, is the most likely result according to bookmakers and pollsters.

But what seemed like a comfortable lead a few days ago now looks more precarious following the release of a major new survey on Tuesday.

The YouGov poll indicated the expected Conservative majority would be slashed from 68 seats to 28 since the last survey at the end of November, with a hung parliament now within the margin of error.

With 650 seats in parliament's lower House of Commons, the poll takes 326 as the magic number, predicting the Tories will win 339 seats.

But with Irish Republican party Sinn Fein having a policy of not sending MPs to the British parliament, and with the speakers not normally involved in parliamentary votes, a working majority can be obtained with fewer seats.

In 2017, the Conservatives won 317 seats and went on to govern after striking a deal with Northern Ireland's 10 Democratic Unionist Party MPs.

Any kind of majority should allow Johnson to get through his Brexit deal agreed with Brussels, putting Britain on course to leave the European Union by January 31.

Labour majority

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn could upset the odds and secure a majority for his left-wing agenda, which includes the re-nationalisation of key sectors, including the railways and energy, and a massive public spending spree.

Britain would also vote again on whether to leave the EU with the options being a "softer" Brexit deal negotiated by his party or remaining in the union.

A Labour victory would represent a major breakthrough on the global stage for the far-left movement backed by younger voters.

Hung parliament

If no party achieves a working majority, then Britain would have another hung parliament, as in 2010 and 2017.

The Conservatives are still expected to win the most seats and, as incumbent, Johnson would remain prime minister and get first crack at striking a deal with opposition parties, either to join a formal coalition or for them to agree to back him on crucial votes in an informal pact.

But he has few friends outside his own party and is unlikely to win the support of the DUP this time round as they are unhappy with his Brexit deal.

Johnson could then quit or try to go it alone in a minority government, which would require him to win key votes when parliament returns.&nbsp;

He would be obliged to resign if his attempts failed.

Corbyn would then try to form a government, with the Scottish National Party (SNP) indicating they would back him if he agreed to a second Scottish independence referendum.

The Liberal Democrats could also be tempted by Labour's commitment to a second Brexit referendum, but have so far "absolutely categorically" ruled out backing Corbyn, citing his radical economic agenda and anti-Semitism within his party.

Without them, Corbyn would probably fall short of forming a government or securing the backing needed to sustain a minority government.

Another election would be the only way to break the deadlock.

Britain votes in a crucial general election on Thursday, with latest opinion polls showing Prime Minister Boris Johnson locked in a tight battle to win a majority and deliver his Brexit plans.

Britain votes in a crucial general election on Thursday, with latest opinion polls showing Prime Minister Boris Johnson locked in a tight battle to win a majority and deliver his Brexit plans. Here is an outline of the possible outcomes: Conservative majority A Johnson victory, regaining the Conservative majority lost in 2017, is the most likely result according to bookmakers and pollsters. But what seemed like a comfortable lead a few days ago now looks more precarious following the release of a major new survey on Tuesday. The YouGov poll indicated the expected Conservative majority would be slashed from 68 seats to 28 since the last survey at the end of November, with a hung parliament now within the margin of error. With 650 seats in parliament's lower House of Commons, the poll takes 326 as the magic number, predicting the Tories will win 339 seats. But with Irish Republican party Sinn Fein having a policy of not sending MPs to the British parliament, and with the speakers not normally involved in parliamentary votes, a working majority can be obtained with fewer seats. In 2017, the Conservatives won 317 seats and went on to govern after striking a deal with Northern Ireland's 10 Democratic Unionist Party MPs. Any kind of majority should allow Johnson to get through his Brexit deal agreed with Brussels, putting Britain on course to leave the European Union by January 31. Labour majority Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn could upset the odds and secure a majority for his left-wing agenda, which includes the re-nationalisation of key sectors, including the railways and energy, and a massive public spending spree. Britain would also vote again on whether to leave the EU with the options being a "softer" Brexit deal negotiated by his party or remaining in the union. A Labour victory would represent a major breakthrough on the global stage for the far-left movement backed by younger voters. Hung parliament If no party achieves a working majority, then Britain would have another hung parliament, as in 2010 and 2017. The Conservatives are still expected to win the most seats and, as incumbent, Johnson would remain prime minister and get first crack at striking a deal with opposition parties, either to join a formal coalition or for them to agree to back him on crucial votes in an informal pact. But he has few friends outside his own party and is unlikely to win the support of the DUP this time round as they are unhappy with his Brexit deal. Johnson could then quit or try to go it alone in a minority government, which would require him to win key votes when parliament returns. He would be obliged to resign if his attempts failed. Corbyn would then try to form a government, with the Scottish National Party (SNP) indicating they would back him if he agreed to a second Scottish independence referendum. The Liberal Democrats could also be tempted by Labour's commitment to a second Brexit referendum, but have so far "absolutely categorically" ruled out backing Corbyn, citing his radical economic agenda and anti-Semitism within his party. Without them, Corbyn would probably fall short of forming a government or securing the backing needed to sustain a minority government. Another election would be the only way to break the deadlock.

British general election: A look at possible outcomes of the UK vote

UK's main parties are gearing up for a general election which is to be scheduled on december 12.

UK:  General Election on december 12

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit.

Traders were looking ahead also to a meeting of the Federal Reserve that was expected to end with the US central bank announcing an interest-rate cut on Wednesday.

Around 1115 GMT, sterling clawed back losses to trade at $1.2862, virtually unchanged compared with its level late Monday in New York.

The euro meanwhile reversed direction to stand 0.2-per cent lower at 86.14 pence.

"Bulls have finally escaped the selling pressure and pushed sterling higher on the back of the news that Labour is finally backing the elections," commented Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at ThinkMarkets.&nbsp;

"The spike in sterling is decent but we are not expecting any significant moves."

Britain appeared headed for a December election after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Johnson's desire for a pre-Christmas poll.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the decision by European Union leaders on Monday to again delay Brexit meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking 'no-deal' off the table has now been met".

David Cheetham, chief market analyst at XTB trading group, said "the pound will likely stay fairly well supported unless a no-deal outcome becomes more than marginally possible once more".

He added: "Elections are often seen as bringing heightened uncertainty and therefore negative in the near-term for affected markets, but in this case there is a hope that it will bring an end to the present quandary we find ourselves in."&nbsp;

In equities trade, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was down 0.7 per cent in late morning deals, extending earlier losses as the stronger pound weighed on share price for multinationals that have substantial earnings in dollars.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 lost 0.2 per cent and the Paris CAC 40 shed 0.1 per cent.&nbsp;

Elsewhere Tuesday, Asian stock markets diverged following another record-high close for Wall Street on Monday amid a renewed sense of hope over China-US trade talks.

Expectations for a US rate cut and some strong company earnings were also providing a much-needed lift to confidence after a rollercoaster year on global trading floors.

Oil prices extended Monday's big losses that had been sparked by reports of another pick-up in US stockpiles that indicated weak demand growth.

Key figures around 1115 GMT

Pound/dollar: DOWN slightly at $1.2862 from $1.2863 at 2100 GMT

Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.14 pence from 86.29 pence&nbsp;

Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1081 from $1.1100

Dollar/yen: DOWN at 108.90 yen from 108.95 yen

London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.7 per cent at 7,278.43 points

Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 12,921

Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 5,726.50

EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,618.32

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.5 per cent at 22,974.13 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 26,786.76 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.9 per cent at 2,954.18 (close)

New York - Dow: UP 0.5 per cent at 27.090.72 (close)

Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 1.1 per cent at $60.87 per barrel

West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 1.2 per cent at $55.14 per barrel

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit.

The pound recovered Tuesday against the dollar and euro as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looked set to secure his wish for a general election before Christmas aimed at finally forcing through Brexit. Traders were looking ahead also to a meeting of the Federal Reserve that was expected to end with the US central bank announcing an interest-rate cut on Wednesday. Around 1115 GMT, sterling clawed back losses to trade at $1.2862, virtually unchanged compared with its level late Monday in New York. The euro meanwhile reversed direction to stand 0.2-per cent lower at 86.14 pence. "Bulls have finally escaped the selling pressure and pushed sterling higher on the back of the news that Labour is finally backing the elections," commented Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at ThinkMarkets. "The spike in sterling is decent but we are not expecting any significant moves." Britain appeared headed for a December election after the main opposition Labour party said it would support Johnson's desire for a pre-Christmas poll. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the decision by European Union leaders on Monday to again delay Brexit meant that "for the next three months, our condition of taking 'no-deal' off the table has now been met". David Cheetham, chief market analyst at XTB trading group, said "the pound will likely stay fairly well supported unless a no-deal outcome becomes more than marginally possible once more". He added: "Elections are often seen as bringing heightened uncertainty and therefore negative in the near-term for affected markets, but in this case there is a hope that it will bring an end to the present quandary we find ourselves in." In equities trade, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was down 0.7 per cent in late morning deals, extending earlier losses as the stronger pound weighed on share price for multinationals that have substantial earnings in dollars. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 lost 0.2 per cent and the Paris CAC 40 shed 0.1 per cent. Elsewhere Tuesday, Asian stock markets diverged following another record-high close for Wall Street on Monday amid a renewed sense of hope over China-US trade talks. Expectations for a US rate cut and some strong company earnings were also providing a much-needed lift to confidence after a rollercoaster year on global trading floors. Oil prices extended Monday's big losses that had been sparked by reports of another pick-up in US stockpiles that indicated weak demand growth. Key figures around 1115 GMT Pound/dollar: DOWN slightly at $1.2862 from $1.2863 at 2100 GMT Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.14 pence from 86.29 pence Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1081 from $1.1100 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 108.90 yen from 108.95 yen London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.7 per cent at 7,278.43 points Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 12,921 Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 5,726.50 EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,618.32 Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.5 per cent at 22,974.13 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 26,786.76 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.9 per cent at 2,954.18 (close) New York - Dow: UP 0.5 per cent at 27.090.72 (close) Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 1.1 per cent at $60.87 per barrel West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 1.2 per cent at $55.14 per barrel

Pound recovers with UK set for general election

Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party won a majority in Sunday's parliamentary election, securing a second four-year term to continue reforms that have put it on a collision course with Brussels.

PiS secured 45.2% of votes, according to results from 83% of constituencies published by the electoral committee on Monday. The biggest opposition grouping Civic Coalition (KO), which comprises centrist and liberal parties, came second with 26.1%.

The win for PiS is likely to stoke concern about democratic standards in the largest former communist state of European Union, where the government has been accused of politicising the judiciary, turning state media into a mouthpiece and polarising society.

A second term for PiS could also bolster anti-immigration populists in the EU are who keen to scale back the bloc's liberal agenda.

The party cast the election as a choice between a society rooted in traditional Catholic values and a liberal order that promotes a chosen few and undermines family life.

Critics accused it of fomenting homophobia during the election campaign, with PiS officials calling lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights an invasive foreign influence that threatens Poland's national identity.

"We saved Poland. ... It is time to complete decommunisation. It is time to stop the LGBT dictate!," Deputy Digitalisation Minister Andrzej Andruszkiewicz seen as close to far-right politicians wrote in a tweet.

The leftist alliance, The Left, got 12.1%, while the bloc of agrarian PSL and anti-system Kukiz'15 was at 8.8%. The far-right Confederation has probably also passed the threshold and managed to get into parliament, scoring 6.7% based on partial results.

"The most important thing is that we achieved our aim - from the very beginning our plan was to get the majority," Deputy Prime Minister Jacek Sasin told private broadcaster TVN24 on Monday.

According to Reuters calculations, PiS won 238 out of 460 seats in lower house, the Sejm, although this result is subject to change depending on the performance of other parties.

Poland's euro-denominated government bonds rallied on Monday after the results came out. The zloty started Monday trade at 4.3056 to euro, almost unchanged since late Sunday. Warsaw stock exchange started the day with a 0.4% slide.

Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party won a majority in Sunday's parliamentary election, securing a second four-year term to continue reforms that have put it on a collision course with Brussels.

Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party won a majority in Sunday's parliamentary election, securing a second four-year term to continue reforms that have put it on a collision course with Brussels. PiS secured 45.2% of votes, according to results from 83% of constituencies published by the electoral committee on Monday. The biggest opposition grouping Civic Coalition (KO), which comprises centrist and liberal parties, came second with 26.1%. The win for PiS is likely to stoke concern about democratic standards in the largest former communist state of European Union, where the government has been accused of politicising the judiciary, turning state media into a mouthpiece and polarising society. A second term for PiS could also bolster anti-immigration populists in the EU are who keen to scale back the bloc's liberal agenda. The party cast the election as a choice between a society rooted in traditional Catholic values and a liberal order that promotes a chosen few and undermines family life. Critics accused it of fomenting homophobia during the election campaign, with PiS officials calling lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights an invasive foreign influence that threatens Poland's national identity. "We saved Poland. ... It is time to complete decommunisation. It is time to stop the LGBT dictate!," Deputy Digitalisation Minister Andrzej Andruszkiewicz seen as close to far-right politicians wrote in a tweet. The leftist alliance, The Left, got 12.1%, while the bloc of agrarian PSL and anti-system Kukiz'15 was at 8.8%. The far-right Confederation has probably also passed the threshold and managed to get into parliament, scoring 6.7% based on partial results. "The most important thing is that we achieved our aim - from the very beginning our plan was to get the majority," Deputy Prime Minister Jacek Sasin told private broadcaster TVN24 on Monday. According to Reuters calculations, PiS won 238 out of 460 seats in lower house, the Sejm, although this result is subject to change depending on the performance of other parties. Poland's euro-denominated government bonds rallied on Monday after the results came out. The zloty started Monday trade at 4.3056 to euro, almost unchanged since late Sunday. Warsaw stock exchange started the day with a 0.4% slide.

Poland's ruling nationalists win majority in parliament

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-centrist-rival-in-last-ditch-bid-to-form-unity-government-252696">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end.

The hearing comes as deadlocked results from a September 17 general election leave Netanyahu plotting how to survive politically and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

To do so, he will have to navigate the twin challenges of a potential corruption indictment against him in the weeks ahead and election results that give neither him nor his challenger Benny Gantz a clear path to a majority coalition.

Both will collide Wednesday when Israel's attorney general convenes a pre-indictment hearing for Netanyahu after having said he intends to charge him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

Only Netanyahu's lawyers and not the premier himself are expected to attend the closed-door hearing, which gives him a final chance to convince Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit he should not be indicted.

The hearing is to last four days, covering three separate cases in which Netanyahu is accused of acting on behalf of wealthy supporters and businessmen in exchange for gifts or favourable news coverage.

Netanyahu, who denies all the allegations, asked that the hearing be broadcast live because he has "nothing to hide."

Mandelblit dismissed the request in no uncertain terms, saying the hearing was intended to convince the legal authorities, not the public.

Following the hearing, the attorney general's deliberations on whether to issue the indictments are expected to continue for weeks.

'Last effort'

While the hearing is underway, Netanyahu may be preparing to inform President Reuven Rivlin he is unable to form a government after being tasked with doing so a week ago.

Negotiators for Netanyahu's right-wing Likud had intended to meet with Gantz's centrist Blue and White on Wednesday as part of so far unsuccessful efforts to hammer out a unity government.

Netanyahu had also sought to meet Gantz later on Wednesday.

But Blue and White announced late Tuesday that there was no reason for either meeting now since "pre-conditions" is sought for further talks were not met.

Both sides held out hope for a change of heart by their opponents, but Netanyahu had already labelled Wednesday's talks a "last effort".

Should he follow through with the negotiating tactic and tell Rivlin he cannot form a government, the president must then decide whether to ask Gantz to try.

Alternatively, Rivlin could call on parliament to agree on a candidate for prime minister with a vote of at least 61 of 120 members.

Netanyahu and Gantz have traded blame over failed efforts so far to reach a deal.

They are divided on a range of issues, but one major point: who would be prime minister first in a unity government.

Gantz argues that since his party finished as the largest, with one seat more than the Likud, he should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement.

He also says Blue and White cannot be part of a government with a prime minister facing indictment.

Netanyahu says even though Likud has fewer seats, more of the smaller parties in parliament back him.

He wants to negotiate based on a compromise Rivlin proposed, which could see him remain prime minister for now but step aside if indicted while retaining the title.

Gantz would step in as acting prime minister in the interim.

'Game of chicken'

Both are engaged in a game of "chicken" and the result could be yet another election, a third in the space of a year after April polls also ended inconclusively, said Gideon Rahat of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and the Israel Democracy Institute think tank.

In that case, much will depend on who the public blames for causing a third vote, he said.

"It's all about threats," said Rahat.

"In the game of chicken, sometimes the result is that both drivers are killed. And that would be like chicken: We'll have third elections because nobody will move."

However, it could also buy Netanyahu time as he awaits the attorney general's decision, and while it seems a long shot, holding a third election as soon as possible may allow it to occur before indictments are issued.

Both Gantz and Netanyahu have already begun seeking to lay blame in case another election is called as it is likely to spur public anger.

Rahat said he believed a unity government would have already been formed if Netanyahu were not at the helm, but Likud members have so far shown no sign of an insurrection against him.

Though weakened, Netanyahu may still emerge victorious, at least temporarily, said Rahat.

"Yes, he can," said Rahat, when asked if Netanyahu could, in the end, remain prime minister despite the multiple challenges.

But "he lost some of his magic".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end. The hearing comes as deadlocked results from a September 17 general election leave Netanyahu plotting how to survive politically and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister. To do so, he will have to navigate the twin challenges of a potential corruption indictment against him in the weeks ahead and election results that give neither him nor his challenger Benny Gantz a clear path to a majority coalition. Both will collide Wednesday when Israel's attorney general convenes a pre-indictment hearing for Netanyahu after having said he intends to charge him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Only Netanyahu's lawyers and not the premier himself are expected to attend the closed-door hearing, which gives him a final chance to convince Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit he should not be indicted. The hearing is to last four days, covering three separate cases in which Netanyahu is accused of acting on behalf of wealthy supporters and businessmen in exchange for gifts or favourable news coverage. Netanyahu, who denies all the allegations, asked that the hearing be broadcast live because he has "nothing to hide." Mandelblit dismissed the request in no uncertain terms, saying the hearing was intended to convince the legal authorities, not the public. Following the hearing, the attorney general's deliberations on whether to issue the indictments are expected to continue for weeks. 'Last effort' While the hearing is underway, Netanyahu may be preparing to inform President Reuven Rivlin he is unable to form a government after being tasked with doing so a week ago. Negotiators for Netanyahu's right-wing Likud had intended to meet with Gantz's centrist Blue and White on Wednesday as part of so far unsuccessful efforts to hammer out a unity government. Netanyahu had also sought to meet Gantz later on Wednesday. But Blue and White announced late Tuesday that there was no reason for either meeting now since "pre-conditions" is sought for further talks were not met. Both sides held out hope for a change of heart by their opponents, but Netanyahu had already labelled Wednesday's talks a "last effort". Should he follow through with the negotiating tactic and tell Rivlin he cannot form a government, the president must then decide whether to ask Gantz to try. Alternatively, Rivlin could call on parliament to agree on a candidate for prime minister with a vote of at least 61 of 120 members. Netanyahu and Gantz have traded blame over failed efforts so far to reach a deal. They are divided on a range of issues, but one major point: who would be prime minister first in a unity government. Gantz argues that since his party finished as the largest, with one seat more than the Likud, he should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement. He also says Blue and White cannot be part of a government with a prime minister facing indictment. Netanyahu says even though Likud has fewer seats, more of the smaller parties in parliament back him. He wants to negotiate based on a compromise Rivlin proposed, which could see him remain prime minister for now but step aside if indicted while retaining the title. Gantz would step in as acting prime minister in the interim. 'Game of chicken' Both are engaged in a game of "chicken" and the result could be yet another election, a third in the space of a year after April polls also ended inconclusively, said Gideon Rahat of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and the Israel Democracy Institute think tank. In that case, much will depend on who the public blames for causing a third vote, he said. "It's all about threats," said Rahat. "In the game of chicken, sometimes the result is that both drivers are killed. And that would be like chicken: We'll have third elections because nobody will move." However, it could also buy Netanyahu time as he awaits the attorney general's decision, and while it seems a long shot, holding a third election as soon as possible may allow it to occur before indictments are issued. Both Gantz and Netanyahu have already begun seeking to lay blame in case another election is called as it is likely to spur public anger. Rahat said he believed a unity government would have already been formed if Netanyahu were not at the helm, but Likud members have so far shown no sign of an insurrection against him. Though weakened, Netanyahu may still emerge victorious, at least temporarily, said Rahat. "Yes, he can," said Rahat, when asked if Netanyahu could, in the end, remain prime minister despite the multiple challenges. But "he lost some of his magic".

Netanyahu faces key day in bid to remain Israel Prime Minister

Greeks began voting on Sunday in a snap election that opinon polls say will bring opposition conservatives to power, ending four years of leftist rule blamed for saddling the country with more debt and mismanaging crises.

The election is largely a showdown of two contenders. Incumbent Alexis Tsipras of the Syriza party is on one side - a 44-year-old radical leftist who stormed to power in 2015 vowing to tear up the austerity rule book only to relent weeks later.

On the other side of the fence is Kyriakos Mitsotakis, 51, of New Democracy. He is from a famous political dynasty - he hopes to follow the footsteps of his father as prime minister, while a sister of his was foreign minister.

Opinion polls put New Democracy's lead at up to 10 percentage points, potentially giving it an absolute majority in the country's 300-seat parliament. Voting starts at 7.00 am and ends at 7.00 pm, with first official projections expected about two hours after voting ends.

Greece endured a debilitating financial crisis from 2010 which saw the country needing a cash lifeline from its European Union partners three times.

The economy is the public's main concern, said Thomas Gerakis of pollsters MARC.

"Voters want to know the government can give Greeks a better tomorrow," he said. Some voters wanted to punish Syriza for reneging on past pledges, he added.

Tsipras was also roundly criticised for mismanagement of crises on his watch, and for brokering a deeply unpopular deal to end a dispute over the name of neighouring North Macedonia.

One hundred people died in a devastating fire which swept through a seaside village east of Athens last year; while Mitsotakis was quick to the scene to console survivors, Tsipras was out of the public eye for several days.

Greece wrapped up its last economic adjustment programme in 2018, but remains under surveillance from lenders to ensure no future fiscal slippage. Though economic growth has returned to the country, unemployment is the euro zone's highest at 18 per cent.

New Democracy has promised to invest in creating well-paid jobs with decent benefits. The outgoing government meanwhile hopes voters will reward it for upping the minimum wage by 11 per cent and reinstating collective bargaining.

Mitsotakis hopes that his reforms will convince lenders to show more flexibility in due course.

"The first thing that is necessary for economic growth to be boosted is a stable government, a strong majority in the next parliament," Mitsotakis told Reuters.

Tsipras says that a vote cast in favour of Mitsotakis would go to the political establishment which forced Greece to the edge of the precipice in the first place.

"Each and every one of you must now consider if, after so many sacrifices, we should return to the days of despair," he told voters, wrapping up the pre-election campaign on Friday.

Greeks began voting on Sunday in a snap election that opinon polls say will bring opposition conservatives to power, ending four years of leftist rule blamed for saddling the country with more debt and mismanaging crises.

Greeks began voting on Sunday in a snap election that opinon polls say will bring opposition conservatives to power, ending four years of leftist rule blamed for saddling the country with more debt and mismanaging crises. The election is largely a showdown of two contenders. Incumbent Alexis Tsipras of the Syriza party is on one side - a 44-year-old radical leftist who stormed to power in 2015 vowing to tear up the austerity rule book only to relent weeks later. On the other side of the fence is Kyriakos Mitsotakis, 51, of New Democracy. He is from a famous political dynasty - he hopes to follow the footsteps of his father as prime minister, while a sister of his was foreign minister. Opinion polls put New Democracy's lead at up to 10 percentage points, potentially giving it an absolute majority in the country's 300-seat parliament. Voting starts at 7.00 am and ends at 7.00 pm, with first official projections expected about two hours after voting ends. Greece endured a debilitating financial crisis from 2010 which saw the country needing a cash lifeline from its European Union partners three times. The economy is the public's main concern, said Thomas Gerakis of pollsters MARC. "Voters want to know the government can give Greeks a better tomorrow," he said. Some voters wanted to punish Syriza for reneging on past pledges, he added. Tsipras was also roundly criticised for mismanagement of crises on his watch, and for brokering a deeply unpopular deal to end a dispute over the name of neighouring North Macedonia. One hundred people died in a devastating fire which swept through a seaside village east of Athens last year; while Mitsotakis was quick to the scene to console survivors, Tsipras was out of the public eye for several days. Greece wrapped up its last economic adjustment programme in 2018, but remains under surveillance from lenders to ensure no future fiscal slippage. Though economic growth has returned to the country, unemployment is the euro zone's highest at 18 per cent. New Democracy has promised to invest in creating well-paid jobs with decent benefits. The outgoing government meanwhile hopes voters will reward it for upping the minimum wage by 11 per cent and reinstating collective bargaining. Mitsotakis hopes that his reforms will convince lenders to show more flexibility in due course. "The first thing that is necessary for economic growth to be boosted is a stable government, a strong majority in the next parliament," Mitsotakis told Reuters. Tsipras says that a vote cast in favour of Mitsotakis would go to the political establishment which forced Greece to the edge of the precipice in the first place. "Each and every one of you must now consider if, after so many sacrifices, we should return to the days of despair," he told voters, wrapping up the pre-election campaign on Friday.

Polls open in Greece's first post-bailout general election

Counting of votes for Lok Sabha polls has begun across 542 constituencies.

The result for BJP will be better than last year, says BJP MP Harsh Vardhan

NDA Meeting has been started at BJP Headquarters in New Delhi. Watch this video for more information.

NDA meeting underway at BJP Headquarters, News Delhi

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck. So far so good. Why shouldn’t an Indian serving Prime Minister and most visible candidate, besides most likely to be re-elected incumbent, not grace the cover of an international newsmagazine, especially towards the end of the world’s largest and greatest parliamentary elections? Nearly a billion voters are eligible to cast their secret ballots in the mother of all election battles. Surely, this deserves the attention of the world.&nbsp;

But, wait a minute. What’s the caption next to the photo? “India’s Divider in Chief.” The cover story so titled is by gifted writer and novelist, Aatish Taseer. As if to offer a slightly balancing backup, also blazoned on the cover, is “Modi the Reformer” by Ian Bremmer. After reading both, one cannot but be disappointed. Bremmer makes an attempt to paint Modi in contradictory more than contrasting colours as both economic reformer and failure. There is little approbation for the huge slew of reforms and improvements carried out by the government. Hardly a word in favour of the palpable reduction in corruption, swacch bharat, ujjwala, infrastructure development, reduction in inflation, and blistering growth rate, many of which are seen as incomplete or inadequate. Bremmer’s scathing scepticism may be dismissed as typical of the fading vestiges of the white man’s burden, now more evident in envious disbelief of India’s economic miracle than in any mandate to rule the world.&nbsp;

But it is Taseer’s spleen-driven surliness, almost childishly querulous at times, that is galling. How can the cover-story on Indian elections be such a malevolent diatribe against a single man? There is not the least semblance of neutrality or objectivity here, nor attempt to present a sensible or balanced appraisal. It is an out-and-out hatchet job, full of selectively vicious quotes and incidents, often taken out of context and strung together to amount to a damning indictment. Repeatedly highlighting the plight of the frightened and disenfranchised minorities, mostly Muslims, under assault from the Hindu majority that Taseer portrays as invariably callous, even murderous, his article is nothing short of a doomsday dismissal of both Modi and India.&nbsp;

How to understand Taseer’s fustian fulminations? A good word for his kind of discourse would be re-Orientalism. Coined some ten years back by Lisa Lau, re-Orientalism refers to the continuation of narrative colonialism in post-colonial times. The major difference, however, is that its purveyors and perpetrators are no longer (mostly) white men, but “Orientals” such as ourselves. Mostly diasporic and highly privileged, these re-Orientalists, distort “the representation of the Orient, seizing voice and platform, and once again consigning the Oriental within the Orient to a position of ‘The Other.’” Taseer, with his last book on — what else but Varanasi — surely fits the bill. There is little room for the common Indian or the “real” India in his works, most of which are manufactured and intended for a Western audience.&nbsp;

There are ironies and contradictions galore in Taseer’s piece. “The Great Divider” was a moniker invented for none other than Barack Hussain Obama, the darling of Left Liberals the world over. If Donald Trump inherited it, it was by its sheer currency as an established political descriptor. The big contradiction, when it comes to Modi, is that Modi is actually India’s great Unifier-in-Chief. Modi has not only united Hindus as never before, but also integrated the great Indian middle class into a powerful political formation. He has given them a voice in addition to a vote. He has also unified the opposition, as Taseer acknowledges, “with no agenda other than to defeat him.”&nbsp;

Luckily, there is a silver lining to Taseer’s febrile lamentations. The more Modi is berated in the Western—or for that matter the Indian — media, the more popular he becomes with the Indian masses. Time Asia’s cover story, negative though it certainly is, will strengthen the resolve of the educated classes to vote for him. Especially given of the contempt poured out on their choice of him his their PM, they will take such denunciations as an additional reason make good on the promise, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar (one more time, Modi in power). In the end, of course, what Time says, or does not, matters little to us. We have moved on. To that extent, Taseer’s cover story may end up, if not as a last minute free fillip to campaign Modi, then little more than a blip, a momentary flicker or irritated swipe on a smartphone screen.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-prime-minister-narendra-modi-great-unifier-or-divider-2748002">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck.

Just when we are nearing the close of this gruelling election season, Time magazine Asia’s cover story for May 20 has been receiving wide publicity. It shows a grim-looking Narendra Modi, in an Indian style black bandgala jacket, now popularly known as a Modi jacket, and a saffron shawl draped around his neck. So far so good. Why shouldn’t an Indian serving Prime Minister and most visible candidate, besides most likely to be re-elected incumbent, not grace the cover of an international newsmagazine, especially towards the end of the world’s largest and greatest parliamentary elections? Nearly a billion voters are eligible to cast their secret ballots in the mother of all election battles. Surely, this deserves the attention of the world. But, wait a minute. What’s the caption next to the photo? “India’s Divider in Chief.” The cover story so titled is by gifted writer and novelist, Aatish Taseer. As if to offer a slightly balancing backup, also blazoned on the cover, is “Modi the Reformer” by Ian Bremmer. After reading both, one cannot but be disappointed. Bremmer makes an attempt to paint Modi in contradictory more than contrasting colours as both economic reformer and failure. There is little approbation for the huge slew of reforms and improvements carried out by the government. Hardly a word in favour of the palpable reduction in corruption, swacch bharat, ujjwala, infrastructure development, reduction in inflation, and blistering growth rate, many of which are seen as incomplete or inadequate. Bremmer’s scathing scepticism may be dismissed as typical of the fading vestiges of the white man’s burden, now more evident in envious disbelief of India’s economic miracle than in any mandate to rule the world. But it is Taseer’s spleen-driven surliness, almost childishly querulous at times, that is galling. How can the cover-story on Indian elections be such a malevolent diatribe against a single man? There is not the least semblance of neutrality or objectivity here, nor attempt to present a sensible or balanced appraisal. It is an out-and-out hatchet job, full of selectively vicious quotes and incidents, often taken out of context and strung together to amount to a damning indictment. Repeatedly highlighting the plight of the frightened and disenfranchised minorities, mostly Muslims, under assault from the Hindu majority that Taseer portrays as invariably callous, even murderous, his article is nothing short of a doomsday dismissal of both Modi and India. How to understand Taseer’s fustian fulminations? A good word for his kind of discourse would be re-Orientalism. Coined some ten years back by Lisa Lau, re-Orientalism refers to the continuation of narrative colonialism in post-colonial times. The major difference, however, is that its purveyors and perpetrators are no longer (mostly) white men, but “Orientals” such as ourselves. Mostly diasporic and highly privileged, these re-Orientalists, distort “the representation of the Orient, seizing voice and platform, and once again consigning the Oriental within the Orient to a position of ‘The Other.’” Taseer, with his last book on — what else but Varanasi — surely fits the bill. There is little room for the common Indian or the “real” India in his works, most of which are manufactured and intended for a Western audience. There are ironies and contradictions galore in Taseer’s piece. “The Great Divider” was a moniker invented for none other than Barack Hussain Obama, the darling of Left Liberals the world over. If Donald Trump inherited it, it was by its sheer currency as an established political descriptor. The big contradiction, when it comes to Modi, is that Modi is actually India’s great Unifier-in-Chief. Modi has not only united Hindus as never before, but also integrated the great Indian middle class into a powerful political formation. He has given them a voice in addition to a vote. He has also unified the opposition, as Taseer acknowledges, “with no agenda other than to defeat him.” Luckily, there is a silver lining to Taseer’s febrile lamentations. The more Modi is berated in the Western—or for that matter the Indian — media, the more popular he becomes with the Indian masses. Time Asia’s cover story, negative though it certainly is, will strengthen the resolve of the educated classes to vote for him. Especially given of the contempt poured out on their choice of him his their PM, they will take such denunciations as an additional reason make good on the promise, phir ek baar Modi Sarkar (one more time, Modi in power). In the end, of course, what Time says, or does not, matters little to us. We have moved on. To that extent, Taseer’s cover story may end up, if not as a last minute free fillip to campaign Modi, then little more than a blip, a momentary flicker or irritated swipe on a smartphone screen. (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.)

Narendra Modi has integrated the middle class into a powerful political formation

A 24-year-old woman who struck Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison with an egg on Tuesday (May 7) as he campaigned for a May 18 general election has been charged with assault.

Australia: Protester charged for striking PM Scott Morrison with an egg

From Israel to India, countries that held or will conduct general polls this year

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

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

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

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

A trailblazer inside the boxing ring, Olympic bronze-medallist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Vijender+Singh">Vijender Singh</a> says he will draw inspiration from Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao in his political innings which start with the Congress in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections">ongoing general elections</a>.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old from the cradle of Indian boxing -- Bhiwani in Haryana -- was on Monday nominated from the South Delhi constituency by the Grand Old Party locking him in a three-way fight with BJP's sitting MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha.&nbsp;

Speaking to PTI on Tuesday, India's only male boxer with an Olympic medal and the first to claim a world championship medal sounded upbeat as he spoke about a decision which not many saw coming.&nbsp;

"I want to be India's Manny Pacquaio. It would be great if I can be as good as him because I am not giving up boxing. That's my first love, will always be. That's my identity and I am not going to give it up," said Vijender as he headed to file his nomination.&nbsp;

The last active sportsperson to fight an election in India was legendary cricketer Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, who lost from Gurgaon back in 1971 while competing for a regional party.&nbsp;

The man Vijender is looking up to is, however, another story. &nbsp;

Pacquiao is the only eight-division world champion in the history of boxing. He is also the first to win major world titles in four out of eight weight classes -- flyweight, featherweight, lightweight and welterweight. &nbsp;

The 40-year-old was elected to Philippines' House of Representatives, from the province of Sarangani, in 2010. He was re-elected in 2013 before winning the election to his country's Senate in June 2016. His term is till 2022. &nbsp;

All this while he remains an active boxer and defended his WBA welterweight title in January this year against American Adrien Broner. 
Vijender said his path is not going to be too different if he goes on to win on debut. &nbsp;

"Even if I make it to Parliament, I will identify myself as boxer Vijender Singh and will continue to juggle my responsibilities," he said. &nbsp;

Vijender's boxing career has been a stellar one, comprising a gold medal in the Asian Games, three medals at the Commonwealth Games, and multiple Asian Championship medals. He turned professional in 2015 and has been unbeaten so far. &nbsp;

He recently signed up with the legendary Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions and is expected to make his debut on the American soil in the next few months.&nbsp;

Does he have a plan to manage two diverse careers in different continents on top of it?&nbsp;

"What plan? Rab aape hi karda hai sab kuch (God takes care of everything). He wants me to be a leader, he will make me one. I follow his wish," was his rather philosophical take. &nbsp;

Discussing politics, Vijender said the issues he will focus on are youth and, of course, sports.&nbsp;

"I am genuinely concerned about employment, which I think is a prominent issue for the youth. And being a sportsperson, I am also keen on working towards developing sports infrastructure. It's about time we had good infrastructure so that budding athletes can actually flourish," he said.&nbsp;

Asked why he opted for the Congress, a party which did not win a single seat in Delhi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Vijender said, "I relate to the ideology and the leadership."&nbsp;

"As is propagated by our leadership, I want to be a friend of the electorate. I don't wish to be the neta that visits once in five years. I am not going to do rallies or road shows. I am going to connect with the voters spontaneously." &nbsp;

Elaborating on his campaign strategy, Vijender said he will be relying heavily on social media. &nbsp;

"I am just going to post where I will be and at what time, on my social media pages. I leave it to people whether they want to join me or not. It is not going to be coordinated because I believe, they should see me as their friend or brother not an imposing neta," said the boxer whose Twitter following stands at 3.79 million.&nbsp;

Being embroiled in a drug scandal in 2013, when he was accused of buying heroin by Punjab Police, remains the only low point of his public life. He was eventually cleared of that as well after a dope test by the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA). &nbsp;

In the rough and tumble of the election campaign, where personal attacks are not unchartered territory, he could become a target but Vijender said it doesn't bother him. &nbsp;

"When have I not been attacked? It's routine for me. And as they say, dogs bark, let them. It didnt affect me earlier, it's not going to affect me now," he said.&nbsp;

"I just want to be someone who touches lives and it is not dependent on whether I win or lose," he added.&nbsp;

A trailblazer inside the boxing ring, Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh says he will draw inspiration from Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao in his political innings which start with the Congress in the ongoing general elections.

A trailblazer inside the boxing ring, Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh says he will draw inspiration from Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao in his political innings which start with the Congress in the ongoing general elections. The 33-year-old from the cradle of Indian boxing -- Bhiwani in Haryana -- was on Monday nominated from the South Delhi constituency by the Grand Old Party locking him in a three-way fight with BJP's sitting MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha. Speaking to PTI on Tuesday, India's only male boxer with an Olympic medal and the first to claim a world championship medal sounded upbeat as he spoke about a decision which not many saw coming. "I want to be India's Manny Pacquaio. It would be great if I can be as good as him because I am not giving up boxing. That's my first love, will always be. That's my identity and I am not going to give it up," said Vijender as he headed to file his nomination. The last active sportsperson to fight an election in India was legendary cricketer Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, who lost from Gurgaon back in 1971 while competing for a regional party. The man Vijender is looking up to is, however, another story. Pacquiao is the only eight-division world champion in the history of boxing. He is also the first to win major world titles in four out of eight weight classes -- flyweight, featherweight, lightweight and welterweight. The 40-year-old was elected to Philippines' House of Representatives, from the province of Sarangani, in 2010. He was re-elected in 2013 before winning the election to his country's Senate in June 2016. His term is till 2022. All this while he remains an active boxer and defended his WBA welterweight title in January this year against American Adrien Broner. Vijender said his path is not going to be too different if he goes on to win on debut. "Even if I make it to Parliament, I will identify myself as boxer Vijender Singh and will continue to juggle my responsibilities," he said. Vijender's boxing career has been a stellar one, comprising a gold medal in the Asian Games, three medals at the Commonwealth Games, and multiple Asian Championship medals. He turned professional in 2015 and has been unbeaten so far. He recently signed up with the legendary Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions and is expected to make his debut on the American soil in the next few months. Does he have a plan to manage two diverse careers in different continents on top of it? "What plan? Rab aape hi karda hai sab kuch (God takes care of everything). He wants me to be a leader, he will make me one. I follow his wish," was his rather philosophical take. Discussing politics, Vijender said the issues he will focus on are youth and, of course, sports. "I am genuinely concerned about employment, which I think is a prominent issue for the youth. And being a sportsperson, I am also keen on working towards developing sports infrastructure. It's about time we had good infrastructure so that budding athletes can actually flourish," he said. Asked why he opted for the Congress, a party which did not win a single seat in Delhi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Vijender said, "I relate to the ideology and the leadership." "As is propagated by our leadership, I want to be a friend of the electorate. I don't wish to be the neta that visits once in five years. I am not going to do rallies or road shows. I am going to connect with the voters spontaneously." Elaborating on his campaign strategy, Vijender said he will be relying heavily on social media. "I am just going to post where I will be and at what time, on my social media pages. I leave it to people whether they want to join me or not. It is not going to be coordinated because I believe, they should see me as their friend or brother not an imposing neta," said the boxer whose Twitter following stands at 3.79 million. Being embroiled in a drug scandal in 2013, when he was accused of buying heroin by Punjab Police, remains the only low point of his public life. He was eventually cleared of that as well after a dope test by the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA). In the rough and tumble of the election campaign, where personal attacks are not unchartered territory, he could become a target but Vijender said it doesn't bother him. "When have I not been attacked? It's routine for me. And as they say, dogs bark, let them. It didnt affect me earlier, it's not going to affect me now," he said. "I just want to be someone who touches lives and it is not dependent on whether I win or lose," he added.

I am aspiring to be India's Manny Pacquaio: Vijender Singh

The Indian politico-diplomatic policy contour, in relation to two major events slated for end April in the Chinese calendar, is indicative of a carefully nuanced posture that Delhi is adopting towards Beijing, even as the world’s largest democracy is in the middle of a major national election.

The Modi led NDA government is in caretaker mode and a new Prime Minister will assume office after May 23 but some import-laden Indian policies that are unfolding this week warrant scrutiny.

On April 23 (Tuesday), two Indian naval ships – the INS Kolkata, a guided-missile destroyer and INS Shakti the fleet tanker will be part of the International Fleet Review (IFR) that China is conducting off Qingdao as part of the 70th-anniversary celebrations of the PLA Navy. Chinese President Xi Jinping will review the 50 naval ships assembled from 13 nations (excluding the host) on Tuesday. Major foreign navies represented at the PLA(N) IFR &nbsp;include Russia, Japan and India and some ASEAN nations. It may be recalled that India had conducted an IFR in February 2016 that saw 100 ships from 50 navies anchored off Visakhapatnam and the assemblage included two PLA(N) frigates.

International fleet reviews are a demonstration of a nation’s politico-diplomatic and military credibility as also acceptability and China is engaged in a similar pursuit against the backdrop of regional anxiety and unease over the kind of military assertiveness that Beijing has demonstrated in recent years in relation to its territorial claims in the East Asia-western Pacific continuum.

But in contrast to this friendly overture apropos the Qingdao IFR, Delhi has decided that India will not be part of the second OBOR (one belt-one road) summit being held in Beijing later in the week (April 26). This summit meeting has been billed as the biggest diplomatic event for China in 2019 and is acknowledged as a hugely ambitious personal project of President Xi Jinping that has complex strategic implications linked to the ‘rise of China’.

Delhi had stayed away from the inaugural summit in 2017 due to the manner in which India’s sovereignty claims over POK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir) were ignored among other concerns. Yet given the manner in which the post-Doklam tension was sought to be assuaged at the informal Xi-Modi summit Wuhan, it was expected that India would review its non-participation at the second OBOR (aka Belt and Road Initiative) &nbsp;summit. &nbsp;&nbsp;

However, in what was seen as a major disappointment for Beijing, earlier in March, the Indian ambassador to China Vikram Misri explained the rationale for the Indian refusal to be part of the 2019 summit. Misri noted: &nbsp;"Above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations".

He further added: "No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity. To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned.”&nbsp; 
 
It is understood that most of the global community would be present at the second BRI &nbsp;summit, including nations with whom China currently has an uneasy or tense relationship including the USA and Japan and India’s determined ‘absence’ would be visible.

The inference that could be made is that by adopting two very different policy &nbsp;options in relation to the PLA (Navy) IFR on April 23 and the BRI summit on April 26, Delhi &nbsp;is signalling both malleability and resolve in what may be described as an ‘issue-based’ and carefully calibrated approach in its overall China policy.

In yet another development, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set up a new division designated the Indo-Pacific and it is understood that this division will integrate policies pertaining to the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and deliberations related to the Quad. The latter refers to maritime/naval consultations between the USA, Japan, India and Australia.

The Indo-Pacific is both a geographic entity that links the two oceans – the Indian and the Pacific; and a nascent strategic construct mooted by the USA in some detail in October 2017. The Indian formulation in relation to the Indo-Pacific was outlined by PM Modi at the Shangri-La dialogue in mid-2018 which dwelt on the centrality of ASEAN in this maritime framework. China has its own reservations about this yoking of the two oceans and the strategic sub-text advanced by the USA and the Indian decision to formally create a new division dedicated to the Indo-Pacific will not go unnoticed.

Managing the bilateral with China will be a major challenge for the next Indian government and the policy contours of end April, as manifest in the IFR and the BRI summit, will remain important punctuation in this uneasy relationship between the two Asian giants.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Indian politico-diplomatic policy contour, in relation to two major events slated for end April in the Chinese calendar, is indicative of a carefully nuanced posture that Delhi is adopting towards Beijing, even as the world’s largest democracy is in the middle of a major national election.

The Indian politico-diplomatic policy contour, in relation to two major events slated for end April in the Chinese calendar, is indicative of a carefully nuanced posture that Delhi is adopting towards Beijing, even as the world’s largest democracy is in the middle of a major national election. The Modi led NDA government is in caretaker mode and a new Prime Minister will assume office after May 23 but some import-laden Indian policies that are unfolding this week warrant scrutiny. On April 23 (Tuesday), two Indian naval ships – the INS Kolkata, a guided-missile destroyer and INS Shakti the fleet tanker will be part of the International Fleet Review (IFR) that China is conducting off Qingdao as part of the 70th-anniversary celebrations of the PLA Navy. Chinese President Xi Jinping will review the 50 naval ships assembled from 13 nations (excluding the host) on Tuesday. Major foreign navies represented at the PLA(N) IFR include Russia, Japan and India and some ASEAN nations. It may be recalled that India had conducted an IFR in February 2016 that saw 100 ships from 50 navies anchored off Visakhapatnam and the assemblage included two PLA(N) frigates. International fleet reviews are a demonstration of a nation’s politico-diplomatic and military credibility as also acceptability and China is engaged in a similar pursuit against the backdrop of regional anxiety and unease over the kind of military assertiveness that Beijing has demonstrated in recent years in relation to its territorial claims in the East Asia-western Pacific continuum. But in contrast to this friendly overture apropos the Qingdao IFR, Delhi has decided that India will not be part of the second OBOR (one belt-one road) summit being held in Beijing later in the week (April 26). This summit meeting has been billed as the biggest diplomatic event for China in 2019 and is acknowledged as a hugely ambitious personal project of President Xi Jinping that has complex strategic implications linked to the ‘rise of China’. Delhi had stayed away from the inaugural summit in 2017 due to the manner in which India’s sovereignty claims over POK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir) were ignored among other concerns. Yet given the manner in which the post-Doklam tension was sought to be assuaged at the informal Xi-Modi summit Wuhan, it was expected that India would review its non-participation at the second OBOR (aka Belt and Road Initiative) summit. However, in what was seen as a major disappointment for Beijing, earlier in March, the Indian ambassador to China Vikram Misri explained the rationale for the Indian refusal to be part of the 2019 summit. Misri noted: "Above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations". He further added: "No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity. To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned.” It is understood that most of the global community would be present at the second BRI summit, including nations with whom China currently has an uneasy or tense relationship including the USA and Japan and India’s determined ‘absence’ would be visible. The inference that could be made is that by adopting two very different policy options in relation to the PLA (Navy) IFR on April 23 and the BRI summit on April 26, Delhi is signalling both malleability and resolve in what may be described as an ‘issue-based’ and carefully calibrated approach in its overall China policy. In yet another development, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set up a new division designated the Indo-Pacific and it is understood that this division will integrate policies pertaining to the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and deliberations related to the Quad. The latter refers to maritime/naval consultations between the USA, Japan, India and Australia. The Indo-Pacific is both a geographic entity that links the two oceans – the Indian and the Pacific; and a nascent strategic construct mooted by the USA in some detail in October 2017. The Indian formulation in relation to the Indo-Pacific was outlined by PM Modi at the Shangri-La dialogue in mid-2018 which dwelt on the centrality of ASEAN in this maritime framework. China has its own reservations about this yoking of the two oceans and the strategic sub-text advanced by the USA and the Indian decision to formally create a new division dedicated to the Indo-Pacific will not go unnoticed. Managing the bilateral with China will be a major challenge for the next Indian government and the policy contours of end April, as manifest in the IFR and the BRI summit, will remain important punctuation in this uneasy relationship between the two Asian giants. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Managing bilateral relations with China will be a major challenge for the next Indian government

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=rahul+gandhi">Rahul Gandhi</a> on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections">Lok Sabha polls</a>.&nbsp;

The protests come after media reports suggested that Congress will give Chauhan's ticket to Delhi Congress working president Rajesh Lilothia to contest from North West Delhi.&nbsp;

However, Congress is yet to declare its candidates for the seven seats at stake in Delhi.&nbsp;

"Chauhan has gathered all the workers and was doing electioneering in full swing. They have informed voters that Chauhan will be contesting from their constituency. What will be done now? I do not understand why the party at the last minute has changed its decision," a protester told ANI.&nbsp;

"We will not going to work for any another candidate. We came to know that Rajesh Lilothia will be given his ticket. Lilothia does not stay here and has no connection with the place. We will only campaign for Chauhan and will not work for any other candidate," said another protester.

Delhi will go to polls on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Supporters of Congress leader Raj Kumar Chauhan gathered outside the residence on party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday to express dissent over the party's alleged denial of a ticket to Chauhan to contest in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. The protests come after media reports suggested that Congress will give Chauhan's ticket to Delhi Congress working president Rajesh Lilothia to contest from North West Delhi. However, Congress is yet to declare its candidates for the seven seats at stake in Delhi. "Chauhan has gathered all the workers and was doing electioneering in full swing. They have informed voters that Chauhan will be contesting from their constituency. What will be done now? I do not understand why the party at the last minute has changed its decision," a protester told ANI. "We will not going to work for any another candidate. We came to know that Rajesh Lilothia will be given his ticket. Lilothia does not stay here and has no connection with the place. We will only campaign for Chauhan and will not work for any other candidate," said another protester. Delhi will go to polls on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Supporters of Raj Kumar Chauhan protest outside Rahul Gandhi's residence

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday.

"An FIR has been lodged against Sidhu under a section Indian Penal Code and section 123 (3) of the Representation of the People Act," Bihar CEO H R Srinivasa told PTI. 
Section 123 (3) bars promotion of, or attempt to promote, feelings of enmity or hatred between different classes of the citizens of India on grounds of religion, race, caste, community, or language, by a candidate or his agent or any other person.

Addressing an election rally in Katihar, cricketer-turned-politician Sidhu has stoked a controversy by urging Muslim voters of a Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar with a sizeable population of the minority community to vote en bloc and defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The comments by former test cricketer at a rally in Katihar, where he was canvassing in support of veteran Congress leader and former union minister Tariq Anwar.

"Do not consider yourself as being in a minority. You constitute the majority here. You are about 64 per cent. Do not fall into the trap laid down by people like Owaisi (president of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen).

They have been propped up by the BJP," Sidhu had said on Monday at a rally held at Barasol, in Balrampur assembly segment falling under the Katihar Lok Sabha seat in Bihar.&nbsp;

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday.

District authorities in Katihar have lodged an FIR against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for his remarks in which he allegedly warned the Muslim community that efforts were on to divide their votes in Bihar, state chief electoral officer said Tuesday. "An FIR has been lodged against Sidhu under a section Indian Penal Code and section 123 (3) of the Representation of the People Act," Bihar CEO H R Srinivasa told PTI. Section 123 (3) bars promotion of, or attempt to promote, feelings of enmity or hatred between different classes of the citizens of India on grounds of religion, race, caste, community, or language, by a candidate or his agent or any other person. Addressing an election rally in Katihar, cricketer-turned-politician Sidhu has stoked a controversy by urging Muslim voters of a Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar with a sizeable population of the minority community to vote en bloc and defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The comments by former test cricketer at a rally in Katihar, where he was canvassing in support of veteran Congress leader and former union minister Tariq Anwar. "Do not consider yourself as being in a minority. You constitute the majority here. You are about 64 per cent. Do not fall into the trap laid down by people like Owaisi (president of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen). They have been propped up by the BJP," Sidhu had said on Monday at a rally held at Barasol, in Balrampur assembly segment falling under the Katihar Lok Sabha seat in Bihar.

FIR against Navjot Singh Sidhu over communal remarks

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide.&nbsp;

Modi instantly ensured that affected farmers got a higher compensation and that all the grain they produced was procured at the minimum support price (MSP).&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi was flustered by the criticism that he personally did not visit the affected families, but Modi was clear in his thoughts: He was the PM and his job was to take decisions and get the machinery to act. Modi knew perception matters first, but actions last forever.

The NDA – despite the Congress blitzkrieg – has done plenty to alleviate the plight of farmers. It has prepared soil health cards for 170 million individual farm holdings to improve productivity, provided water through completing irrigation projects, ensured power for pumps and neem-coated fertilisers to prevent adulteration.&nbsp;

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, an insurance scheme, now compensates the farmers for crops lost to natural calamities. He raised the MSP for grains and pulses.&nbsp;

Modinomics at work was at its best. Remember, when he had taken the oath, he had inherited an economy derisively scorned by both domestic and global investors.&nbsp;

India was a part of the ‘fragile five’ and there was the sword of Damocles of a credit rating downgrade to ‘Junk’ status. It was a precariously perched economy, akin to a poisoned chalice. But Modinomics has triggered a sturdy ballast to help India emerge as the world’s fifth largest (in GDP terms) and fastest growing economy.&nbsp;

So what has helped Modinomics’ work even as rivals stepped up their hate campaign? It was all about the nation and its economic growth. The most important trigger of Modinomics was the goods and services tax (GST) - the biggest indirect tax reform since Independence - which is now demolishing trade barriers, fuelling aggregate demand, compelling tax compliance, reworking logistics and manufacturing architecture.&nbsp;

It has done away with sub-scale operational outposts. What is in place is efficient, scalable and closer-to-consumer operational hubs, which are harmonising rates across states by demolishing trade barriers.&nbsp;

So who’s in trouble? Tax evading entities and unorganised brokers. The GST, in short, is giving a leg-up to aggregate demand by IBC regime for creating a transparent and legally-sound mechanism for resurrecting financially-distressed entities into viable, productive entities.&nbsp;

The World Bank says resolutions in &nbsp;Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) era is now taking 270 days, as compared to the pre-IBC era and its five-year period. In short, Modinomics is working.&nbsp;

Demonetisation - loudly criticised by the opposition - has been a brilliant force multiplier for the economy’s financialisation. It was like an assault on tax cheats, terror financiers and illicit carpetbaggers.&nbsp;

It helped the billion-plus nation to emerge out of its excessive reliance on a cash ecosystem that for generations, fuelled a dirty, dark, parallel economy, depriving India of legitimate taxes and posing tough challenges to law enforcement and security agencies.&nbsp;

It was Modinomics’ bold assault on tax cheats and cash hoarders, asking Indians to follow the rule of the law and not avoid taxes.&nbsp;

Indians realised increased tax means increased government expenditure on its people. The move also helped the mutual fund and insurance market, because a large chunk of cash in bank deposits moved through these intermediaries into the equity market.

Modinomics also did wonders when the government signed the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the maximum tolerable consumer inflation rate that RBI should target to achieve price stability.&nbsp;

In one shot, Prime Minister Modi made the RBI responsible through the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) for containing consumer inflation at 4 per cent -- with a standard deviation of 2 per cent -- in the medium term.&nbsp;

Hence, Modinomics tackled the issue of high inflation impacting the poor and - at the same time - encouraged long-term capital investments by businesses.&nbsp;

Realising that the previous government messed up natural resources, getting embroiled in big buck corruption scams like the Coal and 2G scandal, Modi turned auctioning of natural resources into a crystal clear, competitive and price optimising allotment of natural resources like coal, minerals, spectrum and land.

This is growth and power for a billion-plus nation.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-modinomics-has-played-big-role-in-india-s-growth-narrative-2739620">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide.

Narendra Modi’s first big challenge on becoming the prime minister was the big farmers’ crisis in March 2015. Unseasonal rains damaged crops in Punjab and Haryana and many committed suicide. Modi instantly ensured that affected farmers got a higher compensation and that all the grain they produced was procured at the minimum support price (MSP). Prime Minister Modi was flustered by the criticism that he personally did not visit the affected families, but Modi was clear in his thoughts: He was the PM and his job was to take decisions and get the machinery to act. Modi knew perception matters first, but actions last forever. The NDA – despite the Congress blitzkrieg – has done plenty to alleviate the plight of farmers. It has prepared soil health cards for 170 million individual farm holdings to improve productivity, provided water through completing irrigation projects, ensured power for pumps and neem-coated fertilisers to prevent adulteration. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, an insurance scheme, now compensates the farmers for crops lost to natural calamities. He raised the MSP for grains and pulses. Modinomics at work was at its best. Remember, when he had taken the oath, he had inherited an economy derisively scorned by both domestic and global investors. India was a part of the ‘fragile five’ and there was the sword of Damocles of a credit rating downgrade to ‘Junk’ status. It was a precariously perched economy, akin to a poisoned chalice. But Modinomics has triggered a sturdy ballast to help India emerge as the world’s fifth largest (in GDP terms) and fastest growing economy. So what has helped Modinomics’ work even as rivals stepped up their hate campaign? It was all about the nation and its economic growth. The most important trigger of Modinomics was the goods and services tax (GST) - the biggest indirect tax reform since Independence - which is now demolishing trade barriers, fuelling aggregate demand, compelling tax compliance, reworking logistics and manufacturing architecture. It has done away with sub-scale operational outposts. What is in place is efficient, scalable and closer-to-consumer operational hubs, which are harmonising rates across states by demolishing trade barriers. So who’s in trouble? Tax evading entities and unorganised brokers. The GST, in short, is giving a leg-up to aggregate demand by IBC regime for creating a transparent and legally-sound mechanism for resurrecting financially-distressed entities into viable, productive entities. The World Bank says resolutions in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) era is now taking 270 days, as compared to the pre-IBC era and its five-year period. In short, Modinomics is working. Demonetisation - loudly criticised by the opposition - has been a brilliant force multiplier for the economy’s financialisation. It was like an assault on tax cheats, terror financiers and illicit carpetbaggers. It helped the billion-plus nation to emerge out of its excessive reliance on a cash ecosystem that for generations, fuelled a dirty, dark, parallel economy, depriving India of legitimate taxes and posing tough challenges to law enforcement and security agencies. It was Modinomics’ bold assault on tax cheats and cash hoarders, asking Indians to follow the rule of the law and not avoid taxes. Indians realised increased tax means increased government expenditure on its people. The move also helped the mutual fund and insurance market, because a large chunk of cash in bank deposits moved through these intermediaries into the equity market. Modinomics also did wonders when the government signed the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the maximum tolerable consumer inflation rate that RBI should target to achieve price stability. In one shot, Prime Minister Modi made the RBI responsible through the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) for containing consumer inflation at 4 per cent -- with a standard deviation of 2 per cent -- in the medium term. Hence, Modinomics tackled the issue of high inflation impacting the poor and - at the same time - encouraged long-term capital investments by businesses. Realising that the previous government messed up natural resources, getting embroiled in big buck corruption scams like the Coal and 2G scandal, Modi turned auctioning of natural resources into a crystal clear, competitive and price optimising allotment of natural resources like coal, minerals, spectrum and land. This is growth and power for a billion-plus nation. (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.)

Modinomics has played big role in India’s growth narrative

The country was heading towards a coalition government as neither the Congress nor the BJP are unlikely to get an absolute majority despite claims by political leadership, former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Monday.&nbsp;

He said the mood of the country is clearly in favour of bringing in a UPA government to reject communal and divisive forces.

The senior Congress leader observed that neither of the two national parties were in a position to cross the 150 marks out of 543, despite claims to the contrary by BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In Karnataka, he said the Congress along with its ally JD(S) is expected to win around 20 seats out of 28 parliamentary constituencies.&nbsp;

The first phase of polling is scheduled on April 18 in the state.&nbsp;

Talking to PTI in an exclusive interview during a campaign trail, Siddaramaiah said: "Both Congress and BJP appear not to be in a position to get an absolute majority on their own. The UPA will, however, get a clear majority."&nbsp;

Holding that claims and reality are two different things, he said there is no Modi wave. On the contrary, there is a growing wave of people wanting to curb divisive and communal forces. This has put a full stop to the second term for the NDA.

"According to me, the UPA will get enough seats and will emerge as a single largest front. Naturally, other regional parties will rally around," he said and added the Mahagathbandhan (the grand-alliance) has taken place so that the secular votes are not divided.&nbsp;

He said, "The campaign is against the BJP which is a communal party. All secular forces which were fighting each other, have come together to prevent the division of votes among secular parties. We are fighting against the communal party."

Siddaramaiah, who is also chairman of the Congress-JD(S) coalition committee in the state, is, however, confident that the Congress will be able to make major inroads in Karnataka along with the JD(S), limiting the BJP to anywhere between 8 and 10 seats out of 28 parliamentary constituencies.

The Congress, which is contesting 21 seats in the state, would win 13-14 seats and its ally JD(S) will take the combined tally to around 20, he said.&nbsp;

Rubbishing claims that there was lack of coordination between Congress and JD(S) workers resulting from an unfair allocation of seats, he said the two parties were in perfect harmony and the campaigning was going on satisfactorily.

"This issue has been verified because myself and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda jointly toured all constituencies. Look, myself and G T Devegowda of JD(S) fought against each other during the last assembly elections, now we have come together. We have asked workers to work together," he said.

Three out of seven seats allocated to JD(S) are being contested by former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and his two grandsons, forcing the JD(S) leadership to concentrate on three constituencies of Tumkur, Mandya and Hassan.

Gowda is contesting from Tumkur, his grandson and chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy from Mandya and elder son H D Revanna's son Ujwal Revanna from Hassan.&nbsp;

Asserting that the Congress-JD(S) alliance will benefit in this Lok Sabha poll, Siddaramaiah said, "Our vote share will be definitely more than the BJP. Both voters, irrespective of what Congress and JD(S) got in the assembly poll, put together will get more votes."&nbsp;

On too much of Modi bashing in the election campaign, he said, "It is because Modi is prime minister of this country and has completed five years. Who else should I attack? If you attack Modi, it means we are attacking the RSS. He is a symbol of RSS."

He said Congress's narrative of the election campaign is positive, unlike the BJP which is not raising issues concerning the poor people, farmers, youth and women.&nbsp;

"Is Modi discussing these issues in the public meeting? Why he is not mentioning his achievements in the public meeting? He is talking only about surgical strikes" the Congress leader said.

"There were 12 surgical strikes in the past. In the first war against Pakistan in 1948-49, Narendra Modi was not even born then. In 1977, when Indira Gandhi was PM and Bangladesh was liberated, where was he? Was he a soldier in the Indian army?" Siddaramaiah said adding these surgical strikes are taking place frequently in the country after Independence.

Even the BJP's manifesto talks of the same old issues such as the scrapping of Article 370 and construction of Ram temple. "It is raising emotional and very old issues. These issues were there since 1982," he noted.

The country was heading towards a coalition government as neither the Congress nor the BJP are unlikely to get an absolute majority despite claims by political leadership, former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Monday.

The country was heading towards a coalition government as neither the Congress nor the BJP are unlikely to get an absolute majority despite claims by political leadership, former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Monday. He said the mood of the country is clearly in favour of bringing in a UPA government to reject communal and divisive forces. The senior Congress leader observed that neither of the two national parties were in a position to cross the 150 marks out of 543, despite claims to the contrary by BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In Karnataka, he said the Congress along with its ally JD(S) is expected to win around 20 seats out of 28 parliamentary constituencies. The first phase of polling is scheduled on April 18 in the state. Talking to PTI in an exclusive interview during a campaign trail, Siddaramaiah said: "Both Congress and BJP appear not to be in a position to get an absolute majority on their own. The UPA will, however, get a clear majority." Holding that claims and reality are two different things, he said there is no Modi wave. On the contrary, there is a growing wave of people wanting to curb divisive and communal forces. This has put a full stop to the second term for the NDA. "According to me, the UPA will get enough seats and will emerge as a single largest front. Naturally, other regional parties will rally around," he said and added the Mahagathbandhan (the grand-alliance) has taken place so that the secular votes are not divided. He said, "The campaign is against the BJP which is a communal party. All secular forces which were fighting each other, have come together to prevent the division of votes among secular parties. We are fighting against the communal party." Siddaramaiah, who is also chairman of the Congress-JD(S) coalition committee in the state, is, however, confident that the Congress will be able to make major inroads in Karnataka along with the JD(S), limiting the BJP to anywhere between 8 and 10 seats out of 28 parliamentary constituencies. The Congress, which is contesting 21 seats in the state, would win 13-14 seats and its ally JD(S) will take the combined tally to around 20, he said. Rubbishing claims that there was lack of coordination between Congress and JD(S) workers resulting from an unfair allocation of seats, he said the two parties were in perfect harmony and the campaigning was going on satisfactorily. "This issue has been verified because myself and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda jointly toured all constituencies. Look, myself and G T Devegowda of JD(S) fought against each other during the last assembly elections, now we have come together. We have asked workers to work together," he said. Three out of seven seats allocated to JD(S) are being contested by former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and his two grandsons, forcing the JD(S) leadership to concentrate on three constituencies of Tumkur, Mandya and Hassan. Gowda is contesting from Tumkur, his grandson and chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil Kumaraswamy from Mandya and elder son H D Revanna's son Ujwal Revanna from Hassan. Asserting that the Congress-JD(S) alliance will benefit in this Lok Sabha poll, Siddaramaiah said, "Our vote share will be definitely more than the BJP. Both voters, irrespective of what Congress and JD(S) got in the assembly poll, put together will get more votes." On too much of Modi bashing in the election campaign, he said, "It is because Modi is prime minister of this country and has completed five years. Who else should I attack? If you attack Modi, it means we are attacking the RSS. He is a symbol of RSS." He said Congress's narrative of the election campaign is positive, unlike the BJP which is not raising issues concerning the poor people, farmers, youth and women. "Is Modi discussing these issues in the public meeting? Why he is not mentioning his achievements in the public meeting? He is talking only about surgical strikes" the Congress leader said. "There were 12 surgical strikes in the past. In the first war against Pakistan in 1948-49, Narendra Modi was not even born then. In 1977, when Indira Gandhi was PM and Bangladesh was liberated, where was he? Was he a soldier in the Indian army?" Siddaramaiah said adding these surgical strikes are taking place frequently in the country after Independence. Even the BJP's manifesto talks of the same old issues such as the scrapping of Article 370 and construction of Ram temple. "It is raising emotional and very old issues. These issues were there since 1982," he noted.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Country heading towards coalition government, says Siddaramaiah

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections">India's general election</a> as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.&nbsp;

The Form-6 application is filled for Inclusion of a name in the electoral roll for the first time voter or on shifting from one constituency to another.&nbsp;

Dravid moved out from his paternal home in Indira Nagar, which falls in Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency, but failed to submit the application for transfer of constituency before the deadline.&nbsp;

Dravid was Karnataka's election icon during the 2018 Assemble Election and his appeal was 'Cast your vote. Make democracy win'.&nbsp;

The officials said that his name could not be added as he had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.&nbsp;

Bangalore Central, Bangalore North and Bangalore South vote on April 18.&nbsp;

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in India's general election as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in India's general election as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time. The Form-6 application is filled for Inclusion of a name in the electoral roll for the first time voter or on shifting from one constituency to another. Dravid moved out from his paternal home in Indira Nagar, which falls in Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency, but failed to submit the application for transfer of constituency before the deadline. Dravid was Karnataka's election icon during the 2018 Assemble Election and his appeal was 'Cast your vote. Make democracy win'. The officials said that his name could not be added as he had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time. Bangalore Central, Bangalore North and Bangalore South vote on April 18.

Lok Sabha polls: Cricketer Rahul Dravid won't be able to vote this general elections, here's why

Finns began voting in a general <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-populists-eye-election-upset-as-anti-immigrant-feeling-rises-210029&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjIk862jc_hAhVF6Y8KHX6nCyMQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3E21nbv1oUkOAi3q4uhvqf">election</a> Sunday where the centre-right government is expected to be overturned amid widespread opposition to its spending cuts, and the far-right is predicted to make large gains. As polling stations opened at 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Helsinki was typically quiet, and a trio of young women was the first to appear at the Normaalilyseo high school in the city centre to cast their votes.

A record 1.5 million Finns, over a third of the electorate, have already cast their ballots during a week of advance voting this month. "After those who have voted in advance, we have about 1,700 people who have a right to vote today (in this district)," election official Vesa Hintsanen said at the school Sunday.

Much of the debate in the run-up to the election has been about whether the next government should continue the current administration's public spending cuts. The opposition Social Democratic Party, which Finland's main polls predict will win by a margin of about two percentage points, has vowed to alleviate the austerity policies introduced by the ruling coalition over the past four years.

Aware the public mood has turned against any further belt-tightening, the Centre Party of incumbent Prime Minister Juha Sipila and his centre-right governing partner the National Coalition Party, have insisted the economy is now strong enough to allow for an easing of austerity. In recent months, Finland's far-right Finns Party -- previously languishing in fifth place in opinion polls -- has surged in popularity to become the second- or third-biggest party, according to recent forecasts.

The Finns Party focused its campaign on immigration, urging people to "Vote for some borders", and on climate change, where it denounced the "climate hysteria" of other parties and pledged that citizens should not have to pay for efforts to contain global warming. Polling stations close at 8:00 pm (1700 GMT), with a provisional vote count expected before midnight.

Governments in Finland are usually coalitions of three or four parties. The winner of most votes Sunday will be tasked with heading negotiations to form a majority government.&nbsp;

Finns began voting in a general election Sunday where the centre-right government is expected to be overturned amid widespread opposition to its spending cuts, and the far-right is predicted to make large gains.

Finns began voting in a general election Sunday where the centre-right government is expected to be overturned amid widespread opposition to its spending cuts, and the far-right is predicted to make large gains. As polling stations opened at 9:00 am (0600 GMT), Helsinki was typically quiet, and a trio of young women was the first to appear at the Normaalilyseo high school in the city centre to cast their votes. A record 1.5 million Finns, over a third of the electorate, have already cast their ballots during a week of advance voting this month. "After those who have voted in advance, we have about 1,700 people who have a right to vote today (in this district)," election official Vesa Hintsanen said at the school Sunday. Much of the debate in the run-up to the election has been about whether the next government should continue the current administration's public spending cuts. The opposition Social Democratic Party, which Finland's main polls predict will win by a margin of about two percentage points, has vowed to alleviate the austerity policies introduced by the ruling coalition over the past four years. Aware the public mood has turned against any further belt-tightening, the Centre Party of incumbent Prime Minister Juha Sipila and his centre-right governing partner the National Coalition Party, have insisted the economy is now strong enough to allow for an easing of austerity. In recent months, Finland's far-right Finns Party -- previously languishing in fifth place in opinion polls -- has surged in popularity to become the second- or third-biggest party, according to recent forecasts. The Finns Party focused its campaign on immigration, urging people to "Vote for some borders", and on climate change, where it denounced the "climate hysteria" of other parties and pledged that citizens should not have to pay for efforts to contain global warming. Polling stations close at 8:00 pm (1700 GMT), with a provisional vote count expected before midnight. Governments in Finland are usually coalitions of three or four parties. The winner of most votes Sunday will be tasked with heading negotiations to form a majority government.

Voting begins in Finland's 'anti-austerity election'

Australians react to the news that they will go to the polls in a general election on May 18 as Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the date on Thursday.

Australians react to the news that they will go to the polls May 18

Electing a government to govern the nation/states for the next five years by casting vote in a polling booth is an onerous responsibility on shoulders of every voter in a democratic country. Unfortunately, even after seven decades of independence and numerous elections held in the country so far, in spite of extensive appeals by the Election Commission, &nbsp;government and other celebrities, a large number of voters still perceive, voting is an optional luxury enjoying low priority.

Enormous expenses out of taxpayer's revenue, precious time of serving government officials and the quantum of influence that every election result wreaks on everyone's life and future, are almost obscure to them. Electing a government is a democratic activity of utmost significance and voters' indifference to casting vote is a profligacy nation can no more afford.

Owing to burgeoning complexity of governance, high aspiration of the masses, technological advances, intense international pulls and pressures, country's diplomatic status in comity of nations with respect to treaties and agreements, transformation of social values, frequent natural calamities, low intensity wars etc, have rendered it all the more essential rather inevitable for every voter to unhesitatingly exercise his/her right to vote to elect a responsible, accountable and determined government to steer the country forward amidst turbulence of all sorts. Any negligence or indifference towards elections in view of these developments within and outside the country would now amount to an offence against the nation.&nbsp;

The idea of making voting compulsory by law has arrived as an idea of national importance. All eligible voters holding valid voter cards must cast their votes compulsorily. In case of those who are unable to visit polling booth for any inevitable reason whatsoever, may be allowed to cast their votes digitally.

Yes, provisions for digital voting must be raised as quite a significant number of voters may not be available on the appointed day of polling at their designated addresses. A national English newspaper had conducted a campaign too, in this regard and response appeared to be fairly positive. A certain penalty may be imposed on those who refuse or fail to cast their votes and the amount may be automatically deducted from their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts invoking Direct Benefit Transfer channels.

After the idea of compulsory voting is successfully implanted, popular opinion must address the menace of legislators qualifying to enter the House with less than 50% of votes polled in a constituency. The root-cause of the menace is hidden in the multiplicity of political parties and a few bogus/non-entities contesting elections, who may well be dubbed mischief-mongers.

History is witness to one common man, J Dharatipakada, who used to contest every Presidential election, forcing full scale polling when opponent happened to be a unanimous candidate who had the support of all recognised political parties. That compelled the government to enforce 'Terms &amp; Conditions' for Presidential contestants. This example may be enlarged to include as many levels of elections as possible. Multiple regional parties came into being as a direct reward of Constitutional high-handedness of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who never cared a damn to regional aspirations or accorded even minimum courtesies to state leaders.

The examples of T Anjaiah from Andhra Pradesh and HN Bahuguna from Uttar Pradesh are too well known to be described. It was Anjaiah's humiliation that prodded NT Rama Rao to float his Telugu Desam Party to reclaim the honour of 'Telugu Bidda'.

As the Indian National Congress vehemently pursued 'Divide, Rule And Destroy Policy' bequeathed by British colonials stoking regionalism all over leading to almost every other state having their own regional political party.

Whenever these 'pocket' versions of parties entered into ramshackle political alliances to claim power at the Centre, they led to 'waiting-room' Prime Ministers with resignation letters in their front pockets and regional satraps demanding their share of flesh, much to the detriment of national interest.

The political scenario has started gradually drifting towards equipoise concurrently with expansion of an all-inclusive BJP across length and breadth of the country. The BJP has been acting as a pain-balm on bruised regional aspirations, self-respect and egos too. I am quite optimistic, in years to come, unfortunate development of narrow-minded regional parties shall be relegated into oblivion and nation shall evolve into a matured democracy with two or three strong nationalistic political parties. &nbsp;

The next issue to be addressed is the weird phenomenon of NOTA. Dr Subramanian Swamy had dubbed it a Naxalite provision with the sole intention to destroy elections and bring in anarchy. The RSS chief too had spoken strongly against NOTA in one of his widely attended and circulated evocations held at Vijnana Bhavan. In the run up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, RSS has decided to embark on door-to-door campaign against NOTA. It is a debilitating feature in our election process that allows even criminals to enter legislatures and it must be abolished by law.&nbsp;

The country is not a stranger to the doctrine of compulsory voting. Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Act, 2009, introduced an 'Obligation To Vote' at the municipal and panchayat levels in the state. The Act empowered an election officer to serve notice to a voter on the ground of failure to vote. Such a voter is called upon to submit credible reason(s) within a period of one month failing which the voter would be liable to be declared a "defaulter".

A defaulter-voter enjoys the privilege of challenging the order before a designated appellate officer whose decision shall be final and mandatory. The Act allows exemptions for individuals from voting if incapable due to illness, absence from the state of Gujarat on the day of polling or for other reasons laid down in Rules. Outside India, several countries have introduced compulsory voting for their citizens viz Australia (beginning with Queensland in 1915), Belgium in 1894, Brazil, Ecuador in 1936, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, North Korea (only one candidate appears on the ballot), Nauru in 1965, Peru in 1933, Singapore, Uruguay in 1934, Switzerland in 1974 and Slovakia.&nbsp;

It is for certain, if casting vote is not rendered mandatory by law, sooner than later shall we be compelled to comb for remaining traces of democracy in our country.

(This article was originally published on The ZeeNews. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/it-is-time-for-india-to-make-voting-compulsory-2193921.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp;

Electing a government to govern the nation/states for the next five years by casting vote in a polling booth is an onerous responsibility on shoulders of every voter in a democratic country.

Electing a government to govern the nation/states for the next five years by casting vote in a polling booth is an onerous responsibility on shoulders of every voter in a democratic country. Unfortunately, even after seven decades of independence and numerous elections held in the country so far, in spite of extensive appeals by the Election Commission, government and other celebrities, a large number of voters still perceive, voting is an optional luxury enjoying low priority. Enormous expenses out of taxpayer's revenue, precious time of serving government officials and the quantum of influence that every election result wreaks on everyone's life and future, are almost obscure to them. Electing a government is a democratic activity of utmost significance and voters' indifference to casting vote is a profligacy nation can no more afford. Owing to burgeoning complexity of governance, high aspiration of the masses, technological advances, intense international pulls and pressures, country's diplomatic status in comity of nations with respect to treaties and agreements, transformation of social values, frequent natural calamities, low intensity wars etc, have rendered it all the more essential rather inevitable for every voter to unhesitatingly exercise his/her right to vote to elect a responsible, accountable and determined government to steer the country forward amidst turbulence of all sorts. Any negligence or indifference towards elections in view of these developments within and outside the country would now amount to an offence against the nation. The idea of making voting compulsory by law has arrived as an idea of national importance. All eligible voters holding valid voter cards must cast their votes compulsorily. In case of those who are unable to visit polling booth for any inevitable reason whatsoever, may be allowed to cast their votes digitally. Yes, provisions for digital voting must be raised as quite a significant number of voters may not be available on the appointed day of polling at their designated addresses. A national English newspaper had conducted a campaign too, in this regard and response appeared to be fairly positive. A certain penalty may be imposed on those who refuse or fail to cast their votes and the amount may be automatically deducted from their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts invoking Direct Benefit Transfer channels. After the idea of compulsory voting is successfully implanted, popular opinion must address the menace of legislators qualifying to enter the House with less than 50% of votes polled in a constituency. The root-cause of the menace is hidden in the multiplicity of political parties and a few bogus/non-entities contesting elections, who may well be dubbed mischief-mongers. History is witness to one common man, J Dharatipakada, who used to contest every Presidential election, forcing full scale polling when opponent happened to be a unanimous candidate who had the support of all recognised political parties. That compelled the government to enforce 'Terms & Conditions' for Presidential contestants. This example may be enlarged to include as many levels of elections as possible. Multiple regional parties came into being as a direct reward of Constitutional high-handedness of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who never cared a damn to regional aspirations or accorded even minimum courtesies to state leaders. The examples of T Anjaiah from Andhra Pradesh and HN Bahuguna from Uttar Pradesh are too well known to be described. It was Anjaiah's humiliation that prodded NT Rama Rao to float his Telugu Desam Party to reclaim the honour of 'Telugu Bidda'. As the Indian National Congress vehemently pursued 'Divide, Rule And Destroy Policy' bequeathed by British colonials stoking regionalism all over leading to almost every other state having their own regional political party. Whenever these 'pocket' versions of parties entered into ramshackle political alliances to claim power at the Centre, they led to 'waiting-room' Prime Ministers with resignation letters in their front pockets and regional satraps demanding their share of flesh, much to the detriment of national interest. The political scenario has started gradually drifting towards equipoise concurrently with expansion of an all-inclusive BJP across length and breadth of the country. The BJP has been acting as a pain-balm on bruised regional aspirations, self-respect and egos too. I am quite optimistic, in years to come, unfortunate development of narrow-minded regional parties shall be relegated into oblivion and nation shall evolve into a matured democracy with two or three strong nationalistic political parties. The next issue to be addressed is the weird phenomenon of NOTA. Dr Subramanian Swamy had dubbed it a Naxalite provision with the sole intention to destroy elections and bring in anarchy. The RSS chief too had spoken strongly against NOTA in one of his widely attended and circulated evocations held at Vijnana Bhavan. In the run up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, RSS has decided to embark on door-to-door campaign against NOTA. It is a debilitating feature in our election process that allows even criminals to enter legislatures and it must be abolished by law. The country is not a stranger to the doctrine of compulsory voting. Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Act, 2009, introduced an 'Obligation To Vote' at the municipal and panchayat levels in the state. The Act empowered an election officer to serve notice to a voter on the ground of failure to vote. Such a voter is called upon to submit credible reason(s) within a period of one month failing which the voter would be liable to be declared a "defaulter". A defaulter-voter enjoys the privilege of challenging the order before a designated appellate officer whose decision shall be final and mandatory. The Act allows exemptions for individuals from voting if incapable due to illness, absence from the state of Gujarat on the day of polling or for other reasons laid down in Rules. Outside India, several countries have introduced compulsory voting for their citizens viz Australia (beginning with Queensland in 1915), Belgium in 1894, Brazil, Ecuador in 1936, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, North Korea (only one candidate appears on the ballot), Nauru in 1965, Peru in 1933, Singapore, Uruguay in 1934, Switzerland in 1974 and Slovakia. It is for certain, if casting vote is not rendered mandatory by law, sooner than later shall we be compelled to comb for remaining traces of democracy in our country. (This article was originally published on The ZeeNews. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: It is time for India to make voting compulsory

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