Repolling will be held in two booths in Arunachal Pradesh on May 21, following complaints of electoral malpractices, officials said Saturday.

The re-polling will be held in one booth in Koloriang constituency of Kurung Kumey district and one booth in Tali seat of Kra Daadi district, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu said in a notification.

The decision of repolling was taken following recommendation of a team of the poll panel, who met representatives of different political parties here on May 14.

The polling stations are 28-Nampe in Koloriang constituency and 6-Gimba in Tali constituency.

Polling will be held from 6 am to 2 pm, the notification said.

Repolling has already been held in 18 booths in Arunachal Pradesh on April 20 and 27, including this two polling stations. However, several allegations of electoral malpractices were raised in the repolling as well.

Following the complaints, the Election Commission had deputed a four-member team who met the candidates of violence-hit Tali and Palin assembly constituencies in Kra Daadi district and Koloriang assembly constituency in Kurung Kumey district.

Tali, Palin and Koloriang assembly constituencies witnessed sporadic violence, including assault of polling officials, snapping of bridges and planting of explosives at a helipad during the re-polling held on April 20 and 27.

A supporter of the NPP in Koloriang was also shot dead on April 26.&nbsp;

Repolling will be held in two booths in Arunachal Pradesh on May 21, following complaints of electoral malpractices, officials said Saturday. The re-polling will be held in one booth in Koloriang constituency of Kurung Kumey district and one booth in Tali seat of Kra Daadi district, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu said in a notification.

Repolling will be held in two booths in Arunachal Pradesh on May 21, following complaints of electoral malpractices, officials said Saturday. The re-polling will be held in one booth in Koloriang constituency of Kurung Kumey district and one booth in Tali seat of Kra Daadi district, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu said in a notification. The decision of repolling was taken following recommendation of a team of the poll panel, who met representatives of different political parties here on May 14. The polling stations are 28-Nampe in Koloriang constituency and 6-Gimba in Tali constituency. Polling will be held from 6 am to 2 pm, the notification said. Repolling has already been held in 18 booths in Arunachal Pradesh on April 20 and 27, including this two polling stations. However, several allegations of electoral malpractices were raised in the repolling as well. Following the complaints, the Election Commission had deputed a four-member team who met the candidates of violence-hit Tali and Palin assembly constituencies in Kra Daadi district and Koloriang assembly constituency in Kurung Kumey district. Tali, Palin and Koloriang assembly constituencies witnessed sporadic violence, including assault of polling officials, snapping of bridges and planting of explosives at a helipad during the re-polling held on April 20 and 27. A supporter of the NPP in Koloriang was also shot dead on April 26.

Election Commission orders re-polling in two booths in Arunachal Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh chief minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/tdp-chief-naidu-meets-rahul-discusses-firming-up-anti-bjp-front-219558">N Chandrababu Naidu</a> urged the Election Commission to count votes through Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) instead of EVMs during counting for the Lok Sabha polls.

At an event held for discussing measures to increase transparency in elections, Naidu said, "The Election Commission has allowed for five per cent random matching of EVMs in an assembly segment with VVPAT. The poll watch body has argued that the matching cannot be exceeded to 50 per cent because it will take six additional days to declare the result of the polls. I am asking why can`t the Election Commission counts VVPAT directly instead of counting EVMs, which I feel is a more complicated process."

"The officials will count EVMs first then they will check 5 per cent of EVMs with VVPAT. After this, if there is any discrepancy is found then they will take VVPAT count as final. If such is the case then why can`t the officials directly count VVPAT trails," he added.

Earlier on Friday Naidu hit out at the Election Commission, calling it a 'biased body'&nbsp;which gave "controversial and pro-government decisions". Naidu made the remarks after a meeting with Chief Election Commission Sunil Arora regarding repolling in five polling stations under the Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19.

The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu urged the Election Commission to count votes through Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) instead of EVMs during counting for the Lok Sabha polls.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu urged the Election Commission to count votes through Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) instead of EVMs during counting for the Lok Sabha polls. At an event held for discussing measures to increase transparency in elections, Naidu said, "The Election Commission has allowed for five per cent random matching of EVMs in an assembly segment with VVPAT. The poll watch body has argued that the matching cannot be exceeded to 50 per cent because it will take six additional days to declare the result of the polls. I am asking why can`t the Election Commission counts VVPAT directly instead of counting EVMs, which I feel is a more complicated process." "The officials will count EVMs first then they will check 5 per cent of EVMs with VVPAT. After this, if there is any discrepancy is found then they will take VVPAT count as final. If such is the case then why can`t the officials directly count VVPAT trails," he added. Earlier on Friday Naidu hit out at the Election Commission, calling it a 'biased body' which gave "controversial and pro-government decisions". Naidu made the remarks after a meeting with Chief Election Commission Sunil Arora regarding repolling in five polling stations under the Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19. The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls will take place on May 23.

Naidu suggests Election Commission to count votes through VVPATs

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday&nbsp;in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is also likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI secretary general Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, and Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) leader Sharad Yadav.

On Friday, Naidu met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora regarding re-elections at five polling stations that fall under Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19.

Accusing the Election Commission of being a "biased body" that takes "pro-government decisions," Naidu, while speaking to reporters here, had said, "It is unfortunate that we are fighting against the EC. In Andhra Pradesh, they ordered re-polling in five polling stations."

"I do not want re-polling. I want the EC to be transparent. The way the EC is working, I am questioning that as a senior politician of the country. I have never seen such an attitude of the EC in the last 25 years of my political career," he said.

Naidu had also written a letter to the poll body, saying, "The EC has already conducted re-polling in five other polling stations in three districts of Andhra Pradesh on May 6, based on certain complaints. If there were any issues in the polling stations in Chandragiri assembly constituency, why didn't the Commission enquire into the same and conduct the re-polling on May 6?"

He even criticised the EC for taking cognisance of the complaints filed by the YSRCP and ordering re-polling. "We have seen polling being conducted in different phases, but have never come across re-polling also being held in phases," he said.

Hours after his meeting with Arora, Naidu visited Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at the latter's residence. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also present in the meeting.

The TDP chief also met CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury.

The Seven-phased Lok Sabha elections, which began on April 11, will conclude on May 19.

The 25 Lok Sabha and 175 assembly seats at stake in Andhra Pradesh went for polls simultaneously on April 11. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati.

As the Lok Sabha election reaches its last leg, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is slated to meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday in Delhi and will fly to Lucknow later in the day to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is also likely to meet NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI secretary general Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, and Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) leader Sharad Yadav. On Friday, Naidu met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora regarding re-elections at five polling stations that fall under Chittoor parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh on May 19. Accusing the Election Commission of being a "biased body" that takes "pro-government decisions," Naidu, while speaking to reporters here, had said, "It is unfortunate that we are fighting against the EC. In Andhra Pradesh, they ordered re-polling in five polling stations." "I do not want re-polling. I want the EC to be transparent. The way the EC is working, I am questioning that as a senior politician of the country. I have never seen such an attitude of the EC in the last 25 years of my political career," he said. Naidu had also written a letter to the poll body, saying, "The EC has already conducted re-polling in five other polling stations in three districts of Andhra Pradesh on May 6, based on certain complaints. If there were any issues in the polling stations in Chandragiri assembly constituency, why didn't the Commission enquire into the same and conduct the re-polling on May 6?" He even criticised the EC for taking cognisance of the complaints filed by the YSRCP and ordering re-polling. "We have seen polling being conducted in different phases, but have never come across re-polling also being held in phases," he said. Hours after his meeting with Arora, Naidu visited Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at the latter's residence. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also present in the meeting. The TDP chief also met CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury. The Seven-phased Lok Sabha elections, which began on April 11, will conclude on May 19. The 25 Lok Sabha and 175 assembly seats at stake in Andhra Pradesh went for polls simultaneously on April 11. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Chandrababu Naidu to meet Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh and Mayawati on Saturday

Today marks the last day of campaigning (except West Bengal) for the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha election 2019, political parties across the country will leave no stone unturned in their attempts to woo the voters. Watch this video to know more.

India Votes: Final push by star campaigners

In this segment of India Election Watch, Know What is The Battle For Punjab in Lok Sabha Polls 2019. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: The Battle For Punjab

In this segment of India Election Watch, Know Which are the Key Battles in Phase 7 in Lok Sabha Polls 2019. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Key Battles In Phase 7

In this segment of India Election watch, Watch Congress'U-Turn On PM Choice. Watch this video to know more. #GeneralElections2019 #LokSabhaElection2019 #PMModi

India Election watch: Congress' U-Turn On PM Choice

In this segment of 'India Election Watch' We Decodes Congress' U-Turn On PM Choice with Mr. Arun Anand, Senior Journalist; Mr. K. Dakshinamurty, Senior Journalist & Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai, Author & Professor Emeritus at LSE. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Decodes Congress' U-Turn On PM Choice

In this segment of 'India Election Watch' We Decodes Gorakhpur; Yogi's Prestige Battle with Mr. Arun Anand, Senior Journalist; Mr. K. Dakshinamurty, Senior Journalist & Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai, Author & Professor Emeritus at LSE. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Decodes Gorakhpur; Yogi's Prestige Battle

In this segment of 'India Election Watch' We Decodes Pragya Thakur's ''Godse is Patriot'' statement with Mr. Arun Anand, Senior Journalist; Mr. K. Dakshinamurty, Senior Journalist & Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai, Author & Professor Emeritus at LSE. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Decodes Pragya Thakur's ''Godse is Patriot'' statement With Some Experts

In this segment of India Election Watch, Know Why Gorakhpur Matters For BJP. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Why Gorakhpur Matters For BJP

In this segment of 'India Election Watch' We Decodes Decodes BJP's Confidence Of Comeback with Mr. Arun Anand, Senior Journalist; Mr. K. Dakshinamurty, Senior Journalist & Mr. Lord Meghnad Desai, Author & Professor Emeritus at LSE. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Decodes BJP's Confidence of Comeback With Some Experts

Watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi's exclusive talk to Zee Media. PM Modi speaks on West Bengal violence. He said, Obstacles were posed for every BJP rally in Bengal. Watch video to know more.

PM Modi: Obstacles posed for every BJP rally

Today Priyanka Gandhi said that World's biggest actor is Prime Minister. Priyanka Gandhi campaigns in Uttar Pradesh today. BJP leaders also assured to return with greater margins. Watch this video to know more. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Final Day of Campaign

In this segment of India Election Watch, Know how BJP's Pragya Thakur sparks trouble for her own party. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: BJP's Pragya Thakur Sparks Trouble For Party

Complete press conference of BJP & Congress: Rahul Gandhi slammed PM Modi where PM Modi said people have decided BJP is winning. Watch this video to know more.

BJP, Congress PC: Rahul Slams PM Modi; PM Modi Says People Have Decided BJP Is Winning

"The people of the country have decided that our government will be formed. I hope that the new government will start functioning at the earliest," PM Narendra Modi said.

BJP Press Conference: PM Modi Speaks On Election Campaign

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that a decision on the prime ministerial post of a non-BJP government at the Centre would be taken after the Lok Sabha poll results are out on May 23.

"People will deliver their mandate on May 23. I will not comment on it before their decision is out. I do not want to prejudge the judgment of Indian people. We will take the decision on the basis of what people decide," Gandhi said during a press conference when ANI asked if the Congress would compromise on the PM's post.

Gandhi's comment comes a day after senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that his party does not have any problem if it did not get the Prime Minister's post as it wants to dislodge the NDA government at the Centre.

"We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in favour of the Congress, then the party will take the leadership but our aim has always been that the NDA should not come to power again. We will go with the unanimous decision," Azad had told the media persons in Patna on Wednesday.

Azad said, "We are not going to make an issue that we (Congress) will not let anyone else become the Prime Minister if it is not offered to us (Congress)."&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that a decision on the prime ministerial post of a non-BJP government at the Centre would be taken after the Lok Sabha poll results are out on May 23.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that a decision on the prime ministerial post of a non-BJP government at the Centre would be taken after the Lok Sabha poll results are out on May 23. "People will deliver their mandate on May 23. I will not comment on it before their decision is out. I do not want to prejudge the judgment of Indian people. We will take the decision on the basis of what people decide," Gandhi said during a press conference when ANI asked if the Congress would compromise on the PM's post. Gandhi's comment comes a day after senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that his party does not have any problem if it did not get the Prime Minister's post as it wants to dislodge the NDA government at the Centre. "We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in favour of the Congress, then the party will take the leadership but our aim has always been that the NDA should not come to power again. We will go with the unanimous decision," Azad had told the media persons in Patna on Wednesday. Azad said, "We are not going to make an issue that we (Congress) will not let anyone else become the Prime Minister if it is not offered to us (Congress)."

Will decide on PM's post after results are out on May 23: Rahul Gandhi

The Election Commission (EC) asked star campaigners and other political leaders to refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters during the silence period beginning Friday evening ahead of the last phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19.

"In a multi-phased election, the silence period of the last 48 hours may be on in certain constituencies while the campaign is ongoing in other constituencies. In such an event, there should not be any direct or indirect reference amounting to soliciting support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period," an EC statement said.

"During the silence period, star campaigners and other political leaders should refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters," it said.

The statement came in reference to queries received by the poll body on telecasting interviews of star campaigners during the silence period. The campaigning for the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha election ended at 5.00 pm today.

Counting of votes will be held on May 23.&nbsp;

The Election Commission (EC) asked star campaigners and other political leaders to refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters during the silence period beginning Friday evening ahead of the last phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19.

The Election Commission (EC) asked star campaigners and other political leaders to refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters during the silence period beginning Friday evening ahead of the last phase of Lok Sabha polls on May 19. "In a multi-phased election, the silence period of the last 48 hours may be on in certain constituencies while the campaign is ongoing in other constituencies. In such an event, there should not be any direct or indirect reference amounting to soliciting support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period," an EC statement said. "During the silence period, star campaigners and other political leaders should refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters," it said. The statement came in reference to queries received by the poll body on telecasting interviews of star campaigners during the silence period. The campaigning for the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha election ended at 5.00 pm today. Counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Election Commission asks star campaigners, leaders to refrain from addressing media during silence period

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for attending first press conference accompanied by BJP president Amit Shah just days before polling for Lok Sabha election 2019 ended.

Congress Press Conference: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-got-a-sense-that-a-majority-government-will-come-to-power-again-pm-modi-in-joint-press-conference-with-amit-shah-219416">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday addressed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/the-modi-experiment-has-been-accepted-amit-shah-in-joint-press-conference-with-pm-modi-219410">joint press conference</a> shortly after the campaigning for the final leg of the seven-phased Lok Sabha polls came to an end.&nbsp;

While both the leaders spoke on BJP's poll campaign and the party's prospects this Lok Sabha election, Shah answered a host of queries including one on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-has-taken-the-statements-seriously-sent-them-to-disciplinary-committee-amit-shah-over-comments-on-nathuram-godse-219338">Pragya Thakur's remark on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse</a>.&nbsp;

Shah said that the party has served Thakur a show cause notice and has asked her to reply within 10 days.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/party-disciplinary-committee-will-take-appropriate-actions-amit-shah-on-pragya-thakurs-godse-remark-219429/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"After she files a reply, party's disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Shah had said, "Statements of, Pragya Thakur and Nalin Kateel are their personal opinion, BJP has nothing to do with it. They have withdrawn their statements and apologised. BJP has taken their statements seriously and sent these statements to disciplinary committee".

PM Modi, while addressing his last poll rally in Madhya Pradesh's Khargone today, said that he "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/would-never-be-able-to-forgive-pragya-for-godse-remark-pm-modi-219397">would never be able to forgive Thakur fully</a>" for her Godse remark.&nbsp;

During a roadshow in Madhya Pradesh's Agar town, Thakur had said, "Nathuram Godseji deshbhakt the, hai, aur rahenge unko aatankwadi kahne wale log swayam ki gireban me jhaank kar dekhe chunav mein aise logon ko jawab de diya jayega (Nathuram Godse was a patriot and will remain a patriot, those who call him a terrorist should look within they will get a reply in this election)".

She was responding to a comment made by actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, who had said Godse was the first Hindu terrorist in independent India.

The Malegaon blast accused later apologised for her statement.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday addressed a joint press conference shortly after the campaigning for the final leg of the seven-phased Lok Sabha polls came to an end.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday addressed a joint press conference shortly after the campaigning for the final leg of the seven-phased Lok Sabha polls came to an end. While both the leaders spoke on BJP's poll campaign and the party's prospects this Lok Sabha election, Shah answered a host of queries including one on Pragya Thakur's remark on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse. Shah said that the party has served Thakur a show cause notice and has asked her to reply within 10 days. "After she files a reply, party's disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions," he added. Earlier in the day, Shah had said, "Statements of, Pragya Thakur and Nalin Kateel are their personal opinion, BJP has nothing to do with it. They have withdrawn their statements and apologised. BJP has taken their statements seriously and sent these statements to disciplinary committee". PM Modi, while addressing his last poll rally in Madhya Pradesh's Khargone today, said that he "would never be able to forgive Thakur fully" for her Godse remark. During a roadshow in Madhya Pradesh's Agar town, Thakur had said, "Nathuram Godseji deshbhakt the, hai, aur rahenge unko aatankwadi kahne wale log swayam ki gireban me jhaank kar dekhe chunav mein aise logon ko jawab de diya jayega (Nathuram Godse was a patriot and will remain a patriot, those who call him a terrorist should look within they will get a reply in this election)". She was responding to a comment made by actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, who had said Godse was the first Hindu terrorist in independent India. The Malegaon blast accused later apologised for her statement.

BJP's disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions: Amit Shah on Pragya Thakur's Godse remark 

As the long and torrid election campaign came to an end on Friday, BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi addressed a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Party disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions: Amit Shah on Pragya Thakur's Godse remark

BSP chief Mayawati on Friday downplayed the Congress'&nbsp;'Nyay'&nbsp;scheme and promised to introduce a better one to eradicate poverty from the country if 'Mahagathbandhan'&nbsp;comes to power at the Centre.

"Like the BJP, the Congress is also making big promises. Its promise to give Rs 6,000 per month to the poor will not help in eradicating poverty. If we get a chance to form government at the Centre, we will make provisions to permanently employ poor people in government and private sectors," Mayawati said at an election rally.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister appealed to the people to vote for the SP-BSP-RLD alliance so that it can form the government at the Centre.

Attacking the ruling BJP for what she called 'communal, casteist, and RSS-influenced policies," she said the Congress is responsible for the saffron party's rise and its "dictatorial and egoistic rule" rule in most of the states and at the Centre.

She said,&nbsp;"Actually the Congress is responsible for the BJP's dictatorial and egoistic rule in most of the states and at the Centre today. Had the Congress party worked with honesty and dedication for the people, we would not have seen the BJP in power in major parts of the country."

The BSP leader claimed that BJP would be ousted from power in the Lok Sabha elections because the ruling party failed to fulfil its "tall and false" promises made in the last Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati defended SP chief Akhilesh, son of her long-time arch rival Mulayam Singh, over his comment on the BJP which she alleged was twisted by Prime Minister Modi at a rally.

She said, "Yesterday PM Narendra Modi, at a rally here, indicated to Akhilesh Yadav saying that BJP starts and ends its discourse on the toilet. Akhilesh said the BJP constructed toilets but they do not have even basic amenities like water and door."

"I urge the BJP workers to go and tell the Prime Minister that we cared about daughters more than anyone would have cared," she said."I have got developed many villages under Dr Ambedkar Gram Vikas Yojana during my four terms as the chief minister of the state. We constructed toilets with door and water, schools, concrete roads in these villages. My government constructed much more toilets that the BJP has done so far," she said.

Stepping up her attack on the BJP, she said,&nbsp;"Since they know they are going to lose power, they are misleading people. Bad days will start from May 23 for Narendra Modi and his followers. And the preparation will also start to send Yogi to his 'Math'&nbsp;(in Gorakhpur)."

The voting for 13 Lok Sabha seats including Mirzapur and Robertsganj seats will go to polls in the last phase of General Elections on May 23. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BSP chief Mayawati on Friday downplayed the Congress' 'Nyay' scheme and promised to introduce a better one to eradicate poverty from the country if 'Mahagathbandhan' comes to power at the Centre.

BSP chief Mayawati on Friday downplayed the Congress' 'Nyay' scheme and promised to introduce a better one to eradicate poverty from the country if 'Mahagathbandhan' comes to power at the Centre. "Like the BJP, the Congress is also making big promises. Its promise to give Rs 6,000 per month to the poor will not help in eradicating poverty. If we get a chance to form government at the Centre, we will make provisions to permanently employ poor people in government and private sectors," Mayawati said at an election rally. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister appealed to the people to vote for the SP-BSP-RLD alliance so that it can form the government at the Centre. Attacking the ruling BJP for what she called 'communal, casteist, and RSS-influenced policies," she said the Congress is responsible for the saffron party's rise and its "dictatorial and egoistic rule" rule in most of the states and at the Centre. She said, "Actually the Congress is responsible for the BJP's dictatorial and egoistic rule in most of the states and at the Centre today. Had the Congress party worked with honesty and dedication for the people, we would not have seen the BJP in power in major parts of the country." The BSP leader claimed that BJP would be ousted from power in the Lok Sabha elections because the ruling party failed to fulfil its "tall and false" promises made in the last Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati defended SP chief Akhilesh, son of her long-time arch rival Mulayam Singh, over his comment on the BJP which she alleged was twisted by Prime Minister Modi at a rally. She said, "Yesterday PM Narendra Modi, at a rally here, indicated to Akhilesh Yadav saying that BJP starts and ends its discourse on the toilet. Akhilesh said the BJP constructed toilets but they do not have even basic amenities like water and door." "I urge the BJP workers to go and tell the Prime Minister that we cared about daughters more than anyone would have cared," she said."I have got developed many villages under Dr Ambedkar Gram Vikas Yojana during my four terms as the chief minister of the state. We constructed toilets with door and water, schools, concrete roads in these villages. My government constructed much more toilets that the BJP has done so far," she said. Stepping up her attack on the BJP, she said, "Since they know they are going to lose power, they are misleading people. Bad days will start from May 23 for Narendra Modi and his followers. And the preparation will also start to send Yogi to his 'Math' (in Gorakhpur)." The voting for 13 Lok Sabha seats including Mirzapur and Robertsganj seats will go to polls in the last phase of General Elections on May 23. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Will bring better scheme than Congress' 'Nyay' if voted to power: Mayawati

Kamal Haasan, whom I see as a Bollywoodian as much as any other influential actor in India, has again put his foot in his mouth by opining that the first terrorist in independent India was a Hindu.

He can safely be declared the first motormouth of Indian politics from Indian cinema. Kamal Haasan has often held radical, agnostic views on life and politics, which he has shared with me over several lengthy stretches of conversation. Kamal Haasan is a man of ideas. But those radical ideas don't make him a mouldable politician. They just make him sound like a fish out of water.&nbsp;

Stars in politics are like chocolate cream in biryani. The combination doesn't jell. And still, the exodus of stars into politics continues. Each year the volume of actors in politics gets larger. Now, with PM Modi welcoming Bollywood into his fraternity, the floodgates are open for glamour (read: entertainment industry) to march into politics (read: corruption).

Of course, they all enter the murky world of politics with the best of intentions.&nbsp;

I remember Hema Malini telling me, "I've seen it all. I am no stranger to money and fame. So, I am not in this for wealth or a name. I am getting into politics to work among the grassroots section of the people."

True to her word, the Dream Girl has transformed her constituency - Mathura - into a bit of a dream. Good roads, solid civic amenities, new malls and cleaner, more serviceable temple facilities. I would rate Hema ji among the more accomplished actors-turned-politicians.

But the best actor-politician has to be Vinod Khanna. He transformed his constituency into a Garden of Eden. Gurdaspur, during Vinod's tenure, was a dream come true. Now it has passed on to Sunny Deol. It remains to be seen whether 'Sunny' days are ahead for the people of Gurdaspur. But I can tell you this. Sunny means well. He is honest and decent. But is he a right fit for politics? Decency and honesty are more disqualifications than recommendations for politics.

The latest to join the political bandwagon is my friend Urmila Matondkar. Her decision to dirty her pretty feet in what a legendary actor described as the cesspool of politics, took me by surprise. But then I thought, why not? If Rahul Gandhi can be thought of as a potential prime minister why can't Urmila be at least a Lok Sabha member?

For all the migration from movies to rajniti that we see these days, I still feel uneasy about the alliance between the two mutually exclusive worlds. I feel actors are good orators in front of the camera. But the lines that they deliver with such (rehearsed) passion at election campaigns must mean more than just a rousing histrionic performance.

In the North, actors have largely failed to deliver as politicians. I feel even in the South the days of iconic star-politicians like MGR, NTR and Jayalalitha are over. Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, who announced their entry into politics so grandiosely, are today stuck in their own contradictory statements on life and politics.

Kamal Haasan doesn't believe in God. Fortunately or unfortunately, the janata does. They even make gods out of actors and politicians. And never mind if the gods turn out to have feet of clay. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/more-actors-are-now-in-politics-but-can-they-succeed-2203963.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;

Kamal Haasan, whom I see as a Bollywoodian as much as any other influential actor in India, has again put his foot in his mouth by opining that the first terrorist in independent India was a Hindu.

Kamal Haasan, whom I see as a Bollywoodian as much as any other influential actor in India, has again put his foot in his mouth by opining that the first terrorist in independent India was a Hindu. He can safely be declared the first motormouth of Indian politics from Indian cinema. Kamal Haasan has often held radical, agnostic views on life and politics, which he has shared with me over several lengthy stretches of conversation. Kamal Haasan is a man of ideas. But those radical ideas don't make him a mouldable politician. They just make him sound like a fish out of water. Stars in politics are like chocolate cream in biryani. The combination doesn't jell. And still, the exodus of stars into politics continues. Each year the volume of actors in politics gets larger. Now, with PM Modi welcoming Bollywood into his fraternity, the floodgates are open for glamour (read: entertainment industry) to march into politics (read: corruption). Of course, they all enter the murky world of politics with the best of intentions. I remember Hema Malini telling me, "I've seen it all. I am no stranger to money and fame. So, I am not in this for wealth or a name. I am getting into politics to work among the grassroots section of the people." True to her word, the Dream Girl has transformed her constituency - Mathura - into a bit of a dream. Good roads, solid civic amenities, new malls and cleaner, more serviceable temple facilities. I would rate Hema ji among the more accomplished actors-turned-politicians. But the best actor-politician has to be Vinod Khanna. He transformed his constituency into a Garden of Eden. Gurdaspur, during Vinod's tenure, was a dream come true. Now it has passed on to Sunny Deol. It remains to be seen whether 'Sunny' days are ahead for the people of Gurdaspur. But I can tell you this. Sunny means well. He is honest and decent. But is he a right fit for politics? Decency and honesty are more disqualifications than recommendations for politics. The latest to join the political bandwagon is my friend Urmila Matondkar. Her decision to dirty her pretty feet in what a legendary actor described as the cesspool of politics, took me by surprise. But then I thought, why not? If Rahul Gandhi can be thought of as a potential prime minister why can't Urmila be at least a Lok Sabha member? For all the migration from movies to rajniti that we see these days, I still feel uneasy about the alliance between the two mutually exclusive worlds. I feel actors are good orators in front of the camera. But the lines that they deliver with such (rehearsed) passion at election campaigns must mean more than just a rousing histrionic performance. In the North, actors have largely failed to deliver as politicians. I feel even in the South the days of iconic star-politicians like MGR, NTR and Jayalalitha are over. Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, who announced their entry into politics so grandiosely, are today stuck in their own contradictory statements on life and politics. Kamal Haasan doesn't believe in God. Fortunately or unfortunately, the janata does. They even make gods out of actors and politicians. And never mind if the gods turn out to have feet of clay. (This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Blog: More actors are now in politics, but can they succeed?

As the long and torrid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-campaigning-for-the-2019-lok-sabha-polls-to-end-today-219293">election campaign came to an end on Friday</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/vote-for-national-security-appeals-amit-shat-at-election-rally-in-deoria-219245">BJP president Amit Shah</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/would-never-be-able-to-forgive-pragya-for-godse-remark-pm-modi-219397">PM Modi</a> addressed a press conference at the party&nbsp;headquarters in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Addressing the press conference, BJP president Amit Shah said the party ran the most extensive campaign in its history. Amit Shah declared that the party will form the government once again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-got-a-sense-that-a-majority-government-will-come-to-power-again-pm-modi-in-joint-press-conference-with-amit-shah-219416">I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah</a>

"The Modi experiment has been accepted," Amit Shah said, adding, "I guarantee that BJP, under Narendra Modi's leadership, is going to form the next government." "133 schemes were launched,"&nbsp;he said.

"In 2014 we had six state government, in 2016 the BJP had 16 state governments." "Everyone in the country has benefitted by the 133 schemes launched by the Narendra Modi-led government," he stated.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
BJP President Amit Shah: We started our election campaign from January 16...Our target was to win 120 Lok Sabha seats which we couldn't win the last time. We are confident that we'll receive good results <a href="https://t.co/P80DRk8Tqz">pic.twitter.com/P80DRk8Tqz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1129343128001961984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"People have understood that multi-party democratic system can take the country forward on the path of developments, the success of 133 schemes proves it," the BJP president asserted.

"It was the first election when inflation and corruption were&nbsp;not the election issues," he said.&nbsp;

"The 125 crore people of India are not worried about the country's security today because of PM Modi," Shah said.

"The government has successfully launched many schemes for farmers, Dalits and women." "Our economy made strides in all the 5 years, and this is laudable," he added.

"During the last five years, India's economy jumped to the 6th spot from 11th position," he said.

"We focussed on 120 seats which were not won by the BJP in 2014 and the results on May 23 will give us good news in these seats,"&nbsp;he added.

"Our focus was on strengthening the BJP as an organisation. Political maturity will help us make gains in 80 of the 120 seats," Amit Shah said.

"The government focussed on farmers and women," he said.&nbsp;

"Main Bhi Chowkidar" campaign was a success in the country, it actually came from the people," Shah stated.

"15,682 in 161 BJP call centres connected with the people and made our campaign a success," he said.

The press briefing came shortly after the campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls officially ended on Friday.&nbsp;

The last leg of the seven-phased Lok Sabha polls is scheduled for May 19.

Around 59 constituencies spread over seven states and one union territory will go to polls on Sunday.

The counting of votes&nbsp;will take place on May 23, results will be announced the same day.&nbsp;

As the long and torrid election campaign came to an end on Friday, BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi addressed a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi. Addressing the press conference, BJP president Amit Shah said the party ran the most extensive campaign in its history. Amit Shah declared that the party will form the government once again. I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah "The Modi experiment has been accepted," Amit Shah said, adding, "I guarantee that BJP, under Narendra Modi's leadership, is going to form the next government." "133 schemes were launched," he said. "In 2014 we had six state government, in 2016 the BJP had 16 state governments." "Everyone in the country has benefitted by the 133 schemes launched by the Narendra Modi-led government," he stated. BJP President Amit Shah: We started our election campaign from January 16...Our target was to win 120 Lok Sabha seats which we couldn't win the last time. We are confident that we'll receive good results pic.twitter.com/P80DRk8Tqz — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2019 × "People have understood that multi-party democratic system can take the country forward on the path of developments, the success of 133 schemes proves it," the BJP president asserted. "It was the first election when inflation and corruption were not the election issues," he said. "The 125 crore people of India are not worried about the country's security today because of PM Modi," Shah said. "The government has successfully launched many schemes for farmers, Dalits and women." "Our economy made strides in all the 5 years, and this is laudable," he added. "During the last five years, India's economy jumped to the 6th spot from 11th position," he said. "We focussed on 120 seats which were not won by the BJP in 2014 and the results on May 23 will give us good news in these seats," he added. "Our focus was on strengthening the BJP as an organisation. Political maturity will help us make gains in 80 of the 120 seats," Amit Shah said. "The government focussed on farmers and women," he said. "Main Bhi Chowkidar" campaign was a success in the country, it actually came from the people," Shah stated. "15,682 in 161 BJP call centres connected with the people and made our campaign a success," he said. The press briefing came shortly after the campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls officially ended on Friday. The last leg of the seven-phased Lok Sabha polls is scheduled for May 19. Around 59 constituencies spread over seven states and one union territory will go to polls on Sunday. The counting of votes will take place on May 23, results will be announced the same day.

The Modi experiment has been accepted: Amit Shah in joint press conference with PM Modi

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday held a roadshow in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar Lok Sabha constituency on the last day of poll campaigning.

Priyanka, sitting atop a black car along with Congress candidate from Kushinagar seat, RPN Singh, waved to the crowd and shook hands while urging people to vote on May 19.

Singh is contesting against BJP's Vijay Kumar Dubey from Kushinagar seat, where polling will be held in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha election on Sunday.

Earlier today, Priyanka also held a roadshow in Mirzapur while campaigning for Congress leader from the constituency, Lalitesh Pati Tripathi.

While addressing the crowd, Priyanka said that it would have been great if they had chosen legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan as the Prime Minister.

"You have chosen the greatest actor as Prime Minister. It would have been better if you had made Amitabh Bachchan as Prime Minister, anyhow they did not do anything for you," she said candidly.

The election campaigning will end at 5:00 pm today.

The result will be announced on May 23.&nbsp;

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday held a roadshow in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar Lok Sabha constituency on the last day of poll campaigning. Priyanka, sitting atop a black car along with Congress candidate from Kushinagar seat, RPN Singh, waved to the crowd and shook hands while urging people to vote on May 19.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday held a roadshow in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar Lok Sabha constituency on the last day of poll campaigning. Priyanka, sitting atop a black car along with Congress candidate from Kushinagar seat, RPN Singh, waved to the crowd and shook hands while urging people to vote on May 19. Singh is contesting against BJP's Vijay Kumar Dubey from Kushinagar seat, where polling will be held in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha election on Sunday. Earlier today, Priyanka also held a roadshow in Mirzapur while campaigning for Congress leader from the constituency, Lalitesh Pati Tripathi. While addressing the crowd, Priyanka said that it would have been great if they had chosen legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan as the Prime Minister. "You have chosen the greatest actor as Prime Minister. It would have been better if you had made Amitabh Bachchan as Prime Minister, anyhow they did not do anything for you," she said candidly. The election campaigning will end at 5:00 pm today. The result will be announced on May 23.

On last day of poll campaigning, Priyanka Gandhi holds roadshow in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he will never forgive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-has-taken-the-statements-seriously-sent-them-to-disciplinary-committee-amit-shah-over-comments-on-nathuram-godse-219338">BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur</a> for insulting Mahatma Gandhi by calling his assassin Nathuram Godse a true patriot.

The prime minister told a TV channel during his last rally in Madhya Pradesh's Khargone ahead of the last phase of voting in the Lok Sabha polls, he also said her comments were detrimental to society.

"The remarks made about Gandhiji or Nathuram Godse are very bad and very wrong for society," he said. "She has sought an apology but I would never be able to forgive her fully," he added.

Earlier Friday, BJP president Amit Shah said remarks on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin by three BJP leaders Thakur, Union Minister Anantkumar Hegde and Karnataka MP Nalin Kumar Kateel were not in line with the party's ideology.

Shah had said the party's disciplinary committee has sought an explanation from them in 10 days.

During a roadshow in Madhya Pradesh's Agar town, Thakur had said, "Nathuram Godseji deshbhakt the, hai, aur rahenge unko aatankwadi kahne wale log swayam ki gireban me jhaank kar dekhe chunav mein aise logon ko jawab de diya jayega (Nathuram Godse was a patriot and will remain a patriot, those who call him a terrorist should look within they will get a reply in this election)".

She was responding to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/my-speech-about-harmony-says-kamal-haasan-defending-godse-remark-219298">comment made by actor-turned-politician Kamal&nbsp;Haasan</a>, who had said Godse was the first Hindu terrorist in independent India.

The Malegaon blast accused later apologised for her statement.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he will never forgive BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur for insulting Mahatma Gandhi by calling his assassin Nathuram Godse a true patriot.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he will never forgive BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur for insulting Mahatma Gandhi by calling his assassin Nathuram Godse a true patriot. The prime minister told a TV channel during his last rally in Madhya Pradesh's Khargone ahead of the last phase of voting in the Lok Sabha polls, he also said her comments were detrimental to society. "The remarks made about Gandhiji or Nathuram Godse are very bad and very wrong for society," he said. "She has sought an apology but I would never be able to forgive her fully," he added. Earlier Friday, BJP president Amit Shah said remarks on Mahatma Gandhi's assassin by three BJP leaders Thakur, Union Minister Anantkumar Hegde and Karnataka MP Nalin Kumar Kateel were not in line with the party's ideology. Shah had said the party's disciplinary committee has sought an explanation from them in 10 days. During a roadshow in Madhya Pradesh's Agar town, Thakur had said, "Nathuram Godseji deshbhakt the, hai, aur rahenge unko aatankwadi kahne wale log swayam ki gireban me jhaank kar dekhe chunav mein aise logon ko jawab de diya jayega (Nathuram Godse was a patriot and will remain a patriot, those who call him a terrorist should look within they will get a reply in this election)". She was responding to a comment made by actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, who had said Godse was the first Hindu terrorist in independent India. The Malegaon blast accused later apologised for her statement.

Would never be able to forgive Pragya for Godse remark: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi exclusively talks to Zee Media. During the interview PM Modi said that he have special connection with the people of West Bengal. Watch video to know more.

Exclusive: PM Modi speaks on Bengal Violence

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will visit the officials of Election Commission (EC) on today.

Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had on Thursday "strongly opposed" the Election Commission's decision to hold repolling at five booths under Chandragiri and Chittoor parliamentary constituencies and termed it as "partial one-sided and undemocratic".

"I am writing this letter to strongly oppose the partial one-sided and undemocratic motivated actions of the EC. The decision to conduct repolling in five polling stations under 166-Chandragiri and 25-Chittoor parliamentary constituencies," Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said in the letter.

The EC had on Wednesday declared the poll held on April 11 in these five stations as void and ordered that a re-polling be conducted from 7 am to 6 pm on May 19.

Meanwhile, Naidu might also meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Farooq Abdullah and Sharad Yadav, today.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will visit the officials of Election Commission (EC) on today. Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had on Thursday "strongly opposed" the Election Commission's decision to hold repolling at five booths under Chandragiri and Chittoor parliamentary constituencies and termed it as "partial one-sided and undemocratic".

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will visit the officials of Election Commission (EC) on today. Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had on Thursday "strongly opposed" the Election Commission's decision to hold repolling at five booths under Chandragiri and Chittoor parliamentary constituencies and termed it as "partial one-sided and undemocratic". "I am writing this letter to strongly oppose the partial one-sided and undemocratic motivated actions of the EC. The decision to conduct repolling in five polling stations under 166-Chandragiri and 25-Chittoor parliamentary constituencies," Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said in the letter. The EC had on Wednesday declared the poll held on April 11 in these five stations as void and ordered that a re-polling be conducted from 7 am to 6 pm on May 19. Meanwhile, Naidu might also meet Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Farooq Abdullah and Sharad Yadav, today.

Andhra Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to meet Election Commission today

Friday marks the last day of campaigning for the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha election 2019. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi addresses mega rally in Madhya Pradesh

West Bengal has become the final battleground in the showdown between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the opposition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an election rally on Friday promised to rebuild Vidyasagar statue which was vandalized during BJP President Amit Shah’s roadshow in Kolkata. Watch this video to know more.

PM Narendra Modi promises to rebuild Vidyasagar statue