Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Kodikunnil Suresh and National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) Om Birla are going up against each other in a battle for the Lok Sabha Speaker’s post, after consensus talks helmed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh failed.&nbsp;

Ahead of the election for the speaker of the lower house on Wednesday (June 26), K Suresh filed his nomination for the coveted post, challenging the NDA’s repeat pick Kota MP Om Birla.

Suresh, the senior-most member of the 18th Lok Sabha, was also at the centre of the recent pro-tem speaker row after the ruling BJP-led alliance nominated Bhartruhari Mahtab for the post instead of him.

Notably, this is the first open election for the Speaker; the last time such election was held was decades ago- once in 1952 and later in 1976.

<h2>Who is K Suresh?</h2>

Kodikunnil Suresh is an eight-term MP and currently represents the SC-reserved Mavelikara Lok Sabha constituency in the southern state of Kerala.

A Congress Working Committee Member (Special Invitee), he was one of the frontrunners for the post of Congress Kerala unit chief in 2021.

He serves as the chief whip of Congress parliamentary party in Lok Sabha and is also the working president of Congress’s Kerala unit.

First elected to Lok Sabha in 1989, Suresh went on to win four straight times in the general elections from the Adoor constituency, emerging victorious also in 1991, 1996 and 1999.

However, he was defeated in the 1998 and 2004 general elections.

The MP served as Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment in the second UPA government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Notably, he was disqualified by the Kerala high court in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections over a plea filed by his opponent RS Anil of the CPI, alleging that his caste certificate was fake and that he belonged to the OBC Cheramar Christian community and not the Cheramar Hindu community that is categorised as a Scheduled Caste.

However, the verdict was later reversed by the Supreme Court that set aside the High Court’s order, and he retained his seat.

The Mavelikara MP, with declared assets worth Rs 15 million in the Lok Sabha polls, has six criminal cases relating to rioting, unlawful assembly and obstructing a public servant from discharging duty registered against him.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Kodikunnil Suresh and National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) Om Birla are going up against each other in a battle for the Lok Sabha Speaker’s post, after consensus talks helmed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh failed.

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Kodikunnil Suresh and National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) Om Birla are going up against each other in a battle for the Lok Sabha Speaker’s post, after consensus talks helmed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh failed. Ahead of the election for the speaker of the lower house on Wednesday (June 26), K Suresh filed his nomination for the coveted post, challenging the NDA’s repeat pick Kota MP Om Birla. Suresh, the senior-most member of the 18th Lok Sabha, was also at the centre of the recent pro-tem speaker row after the ruling BJP-led alliance nominated Bhartruhari Mahtab for the post instead of him. Notably, this is the first open election for the Speaker; the last time such election was held was decades ago- once in 1952 and later in 1976. Who is K Suresh? Kodikunnil Suresh is an eight-term MP and currently represents the SC-reserved Mavelikara Lok Sabha constituency in the southern state of Kerala. A Congress Working Committee Member (Special Invitee), he was one of the frontrunners for the post of Congress Kerala unit chief in 2021. He serves as the chief whip of Congress parliamentary party in Lok Sabha and is also the working president of Congress’s Kerala unit. First elected to Lok Sabha in 1989, Suresh went on to win four straight times in the general elections from the Adoor constituency, emerging victorious also in 1991, 1996 and 1999. However, he was defeated in the 1998 and 2004 general elections. The MP served as Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment in the second UPA government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Notably, he was disqualified by the Kerala high court in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections over a plea filed by his opponent RS Anil of the CPI, alleging that his caste certificate was fake and that he belonged to the OBC Cheramar Christian community and not the Cheramar Hindu community that is categorised as a Scheduled Caste. However, the verdict was later reversed by the Supreme Court that set aside the High Court’s order, and he retained his seat. The Mavelikara MP, with declared assets worth Rs 15 million in the Lok Sabha polls, has six criminal cases relating to rioting, unlawful assembly and obstructing a public servant from discharging duty registered against him. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Kodikunnil Suresh, INDIA bloc’s candidate for Lok Sabha speaker race?

India's main opposition party Congress has called for all senior leaders of the INDIA alliance to remain in Delhi until the night of June 4 or the morning of June 5, reports said quoting sources from within the party adding that the instructions included that should the seat count fall short of expectations, "other options including demonstration/press conference/meeting with the President will be discussed where questions can be raised on the role of the Election Commission."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed support for this call, ANI news agency's Congress sources revealed. According to said sources cited by the agency, a meeting will be held post-election results to assess the situation.

The voting for the 18th Lok Sabha elections concluded on June 1 with vote counting scheduled for Tuesday (June 4).

In a related development, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge&nbsp;wrote an open letter to the country's bureaucracy on Monday, the eve of counting of votes,&nbsp;and urged officers to adhere to the Constitution and serve the nation "without fear, favour and ill-will against anybody".

He also commended the Election Commission, police, Central Armed Forces, District Collectors and volunteers for their roles in the election process. 
 
"Do not get intimidated by anyone. Do not bow down to any unconstitutional means. Do not be afraid of anyone and discharge your duties, based on merit, on this counting day," he wrote.

"We owe it to future generations, a vibrant Democracy and a long-lasting Constitution, as penned by the makers of modern India," he said.

Kharge also urged all bureaucrats to uphold the Constitution and perform their duties impartially.

"Fear no one. Do not succumb to any unconstitutional methods," Kharge wrote.&nbsp;

<h2>'Independence of institutions'</h2>

Kharge also stressed on the importance of maintaining the independence of institutions, referencing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of civil servants as the "steel frame of India."

"In this spirit, we expect every bureaucrat and official to discharge his duties without any pressure, threat, or coercion of any kind from the ruling party or opposition," Kharge stated.&nbsp;

This call to action follows accusations by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who alleged that Home Minister Amit Shah had been intimidating district magistrates and collectors.

"This is blatant and brazen intimidation, showing how desperate the BJP is," Ramesh wrote on social media. "Let it be very clear: the will of the people shall prevail, and on June 4th, Mr. Modi, Mr. Shah, and the BJP will exit, and the INDIA Janbandhan will be victorious. Officers should not get under any pressure and must uphold the Constitution. They are under watch," Ramesh wrote earlier.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's main opposition party Congress has called for all senior leaders of the INDIA alliance to remain in Delhi until the night of June 4 or the morning of June 5, reports said quoting sources from within the party adding that the instructions included that should the seat count fall short of expectations, "other options including demonstration/press conference/meeting with the President will be discussed where questions can be raised on the role of the Election Commission.

India's main opposition party Congress has called for all senior leaders of the INDIA alliance to remain in Delhi until the night of June 4 or the morning of June 5, reports said quoting sources from within the party adding that the instructions included that should the seat count fall short of expectations, "other options including demonstration/press conference/meeting with the President will be discussed where questions can be raised on the role of the Election Commission." West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed support for this call, ANI news agency's Congress sources revealed. According to said sources cited by the agency, a meeting will be held post-election results to assess the situation. The voting for the 18th Lok Sabha elections concluded on June 1 with vote counting scheduled for Tuesday (June 4). In a related development, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote an open letter to the country's bureaucracy on Monday, the eve of counting of votes, and urged officers to adhere to the Constitution and serve the nation "without fear, favour and ill-will against anybody". He also commended the Election Commission, police, Central Armed Forces, District Collectors and volunteers for their roles in the election process. "Do not get intimidated by anyone. Do not bow down to any unconstitutional means. Do not be afraid of anyone and discharge your duties, based on merit, on this counting day," he wrote. "We owe it to future generations, a vibrant Democracy and a long-lasting Constitution, as penned by the makers of modern India," he said. Kharge also urged all bureaucrats to uphold the Constitution and perform their duties impartially. "Fear no one. Do not succumb to any unconstitutional methods," Kharge wrote. 'Independence of institutions' Kharge also stressed on the importance of maintaining the independence of institutions, referencing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of civil servants as the "steel frame of India." "In this spirit, we expect every bureaucrat and official to discharge his duties without any pressure, threat, or coercion of any kind from the ruling party or opposition," Kharge stated. This call to action follows accusations by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who alleged that Home Minister Amit Shah had been intimidating district magistrates and collectors. "This is blatant and brazen intimidation, showing how desperate the BJP is," Ramesh wrote on social media. "Let it be very clear: the will of the people shall prevail, and on June 4th, Mr. Modi, Mr. Shah, and the BJP will exit, and the INDIA Janbandhan will be victorious. Officers should not get under any pressure and must uphold the Constitution. They are under watch," Ramesh wrote earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

INDIA bloc leaders to stay in Delhi for ‘other options’ if seat count falls short of expectations: Report

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair&nbsp;play during the polls for all parties.

The bloc exuded confidence while asserting that despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) creating “undemocratic obstacles”, the alliance will keep making dedicated efforts to win the polls and save the country’s democracy.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra read out the demands and called for the poll panel to bar the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax department’s actions against opposition parties, which she claimed were deliberately taken to impact the elections negatively.

She further demanded the immediate release of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

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INDIA गठबंधन की 5 सूत्रीय मांग 
 
1. चुनाव आयोग को लोकसभा चुनावों में समान अवसर सुनिश्चित करना चाहिए 
 
2. चुनाव आयोग को चुनाव में हेराफेरी करने के उद्देश्य से विपक्षी दलों के खिलाफ जांच एजेंसियों द्वारा की जानी वाली कार्रवाई रोकी जानी चाहिए 
 
3. हेमंत सोरेन जी और अरविन्द केजरीवाल जी… <a href="https://t.co/QntVuwhGWF">pic.twitter.com/QntVuwhGWF</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1774382780115238953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwals-arrest-unites-indian-opposition-at-the-site-of-his-political-birthplace-706214">Opposition unites at INDIA bloc rally over Kejriwal’s arrest to take on BJP</a>

<h2>5 demands of INDIA alliance</h2>

1. The Election Commission should ensure a level playing field in Lok Sabha elections

2. The Election Commission should stop action taken by investigative agencies against opposition parties with the aim of rigging elections

3. Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal should be released immediately

4. The coercive action of financially strangling opposition political parties during elections must stop immediately

5. A Supreme Court-monitored SIT must be formed to investigate allegations of vendetta, extortion and money laundering by the BJP using election funds

In her remarks before reading out the INDIA bloc’s demands, she said, “I have been coming to Ramlila Maidan since childhood. Every year Ravan’s effigy is set on fire.”&nbsp;

“When I was a kid, I used to come (here) with my grandmother Indira Ji and she used to narrate the Ramayana to me. Those in power today call themselves Ram Bhakts. When I was sitting here I thought that I should say something to them. I want to remind them of the 1,000-year-old tale and its message,” she said.&nbsp;

“When Lord Ram fought for truth, he did not have power, resources or even a chariot. Ravan had chariots, resources, army and gold but Lord Ram had truth, hope, belief, love, kindness, modesty, patience, courage and truth. I want to tell those in power and PM Narendra Modi that the message of Lord Ram’s life is that power is not permanent… and arrogance gets shattered,” she&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair play during the polls for all parties.

With Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, the opposition INDIA alliance listed out its five demands at the ‘Loktantra Bachao Rally’ in New Delhi on Sunday (Mar 31) stating that the Election Commission of India should ensure fair play during the polls for all parties. The bloc exuded confidence while asserting that despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) creating “undemocratic obstacles”, the alliance will keep making dedicated efforts to win the polls and save the country’s democracy. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra read out the demands and called for the poll panel to bar the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax department’s actions against opposition parties, which she claimed were deliberately taken to impact the elections negatively. She further demanded the immediate release of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. INDIA गठबंधन की 5 सूत्रीय मांग 1. चुनाव आयोग को लोकसभा चुनावों में समान अवसर सुनिश्चित करना चाहिए 2. चुनाव आयोग को चुनाव में हेराफेरी करने के उद्देश्य से विपक्षी दलों के खिलाफ जांच एजेंसियों द्वारा की जानी वाली कार्रवाई रोकी जानी चाहिए 3. हेमंत सोरेन जी और अरविन्द केजरीवाल जी… pic.twitter.com/QntVuwhGWF — Congress (@INCIndia) March 31, 2024 × Also read: Opposition unites at INDIA bloc rally over Kejriwal’s arrest to take on BJP 5 demands of INDIA alliance 1. The Election Commission should ensure a level playing field in Lok Sabha elections 2. The Election Commission should stop action taken by investigative agencies against opposition parties with the aim of rigging elections 3. Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal should be released immediately 4. The coercive action of financially strangling opposition political parties during elections must stop immediately 5. A Supreme Court-monitored SIT must be formed to investigate allegations of vendetta, extortion and money laundering by the BJP using election funds In her remarks before reading out the INDIA bloc’s demands, she said, “I have been coming to Ramlila Maidan since childhood. Every year Ravan’s effigy is set on fire.” “When I was a kid, I used to come (here) with my grandmother Indira Ji and she used to narrate the Ramayana to me. Those in power today call themselves Ram Bhakts. When I was sitting here I thought that I should say something to them. I want to remind them of the 1,000-year-old tale and its message,” she said. “When Lord Ram fought for truth, he did not have power, resources or even a chariot. Ravan had chariots, resources, army and gold but Lord Ram had truth, hope, belief, love, kindness, modesty, patience, courage and truth. I want to tell those in power and PM Narendra Modi that the message of Lord Ram’s life is that power is not permanent… and arrogance gets shattered,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Priyanka Gandhi reads out INDIA bloc’s five demands to Election Commission at mega rally

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, in a significant blow to the opposition INDIA bloc, on Saturday (Feb 10) made an announcement stating that his party will contest all 14 Lok Sabha seats alone in Punjab as well as Chandigarh.

Further indicating that there will be no alliance with the Congress in the state, the Delhi chief minister said that his party will announce candidates for all 14 seats in the coming 10-15 days.

"I would like to seek your blessings on one more thing. In the next two months, the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled. In this election, Punjab has 13 seats and one in Chandigarh. In total, there are 14 seats. In the next 10-15 days, the Aam Aadmi Party will announce candidates for all the 14 seats. Just like you had supported us two years back, I would like to seek your blessings to let Aam Aadmi Party win in all 14 seats by pressing on the 'broom'," Kejriwal said urging the people to vote for his party in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

He then while launching the Ghar Ghar Ration Scheme in Punjab's Amloh, said that, "Two years back, you gave us blessings. You gave 92 out of 117 seats to us (in Assembly elections), you created history in Punjab."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
While drawing people's attention to AAP's election symbol, Kejriwal said that the voters must "sweep Punjab" with full force.

"We have to sweep all the 14 seats with an overwhelming majority and let Aam Aadmi Party secure victory. All of us need to sweep with full force," the Delhi CM said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-begins-discussion-on-construction-of-ram-temple-bjp-mp-says-ram-is-everywhere-688891">India: Lok Sabha discusses Ram Temple, BJP MP says 'Ram is everywhere'</a>

Kejriwal's announcement comes days after Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said that his party would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections solo.

Mann in January had said that there would be no alliance with the Congress for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, AAP will get 13 seats (in Punjab)," Mann had said during a presser.

Earlier, AAP had also announced to go solo in Haryana in the Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, in a significant blow to the opposition INDIA bloc, on Saturday (Feb 10) made an announcement stating that his party will contest all 14 Lok Sabha seats alone in Punjab as well as Chandigarh.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, in a significant blow to the opposition INDIA bloc, on Saturday (Feb 10) made an announcement stating that his party will contest all 14 Lok Sabha seats alone in Punjab as well as Chandigarh. Further indicating that there will be no alliance with the Congress in the state, the Delhi chief minister said that his party will announce candidates for all 14 seats in the coming 10-15 days. "I would like to seek your blessings on one more thing. In the next two months, the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled. In this election, Punjab has 13 seats and one in Chandigarh. In total, there are 14 seats. In the next 10-15 days, the Aam Aadmi Party will announce candidates for all the 14 seats. Just like you had supported us two years back, I would like to seek your blessings to let Aam Aadmi Party win in all 14 seats by pressing on the 'broom'," Kejriwal said urging the people to vote for his party in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. He then while launching the Ghar Ghar Ration Scheme in Punjab's Amloh, said that, "Two years back, you gave us blessings. You gave 92 out of 117 seats to us (in Assembly elections), you created history in Punjab." While drawing people's attention to AAP's election symbol, Kejriwal said that the voters must "sweep Punjab" with full force. "We have to sweep all the 14 seats with an overwhelming majority and let Aam Aadmi Party secure victory. All of us need to sweep with full force," the Delhi CM said. Also read: India: Lok Sabha discusses Ram Temple, BJP MP says 'Ram is everywhere' Kejriwal's announcement comes days after Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said that his party would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections solo. Mann in January had said that there would be no alliance with the Congress for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, AAP will get 13 seats (in Punjab)," Mann had said during a presser. Earlier, AAP had also announced to go solo in Haryana in the Lok Sabha elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: AAP ditches INDIA bloc in Punjab and Chandigarh

Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections. India’s major opposition parties have formed the bloc in an attempt to challenge incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking a third time in office.

<h2>Gandhi’s big promise</h2>

Gandhi made the promise while addressing a rally in Jharkhand's Ranchi. He said Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were made “bonded labourers” and they were not fairly represented in major corporations, big companies, schools and hospitals.

"This is the biggest question before India. Our first step would be to get a caste census in the country,” Gandhi said. He added that the current regime doesn’t allow the total reservation to go beyond the 50 per cent mark, before going on to make the radical promise to remove the cap altogether.

Watch:&nbsp;India: 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Congress' Rahul Gandhi to begin from Manipur

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“If INDIA bloc comes to power, it will throw away the 50 per cent cap on reservation, ensure Dalits, tribals, OBCs get their rights,” the ex-Congress chief said.

He added: "There will be no reduction in reservation of Dalits and Adivasis. I am giving you a guarantee that the backward sections of society will get their rights. This is the biggest issue - social and economic injustice"

<h2>Gandhi takes on PM Modi</h2>

Rahul Gandhi also accused the Indian PM of opposing the idea of a caste census. He added that Modi used to say he was an OBC leader but now says there are only two castes- the rich and the poor.

"When the time came to give rights to OBCs, Dalits, tribals, Modi ji says there are no castes and when it is time to get votes, he says he is an OBC," Gandhi claimed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0H742oWhctIUJnXpHuo8VI" data-ved="2ahUKEwjx2MXY55SEAxUm3TgGHWVEADEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-inauguration-modis-function-congress-leader-rahul-gandhi-takes-a-dig-at-indian-pm-680512" jsname="YKoRaf">Ram Mandir inauguration ‘Modi’s function’: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM</a>

He also blamed PM Modi for “killing” the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and handing them over to big industrialists.

“Narendra Modi and his government are slowly killing the PSUs…The central government wants the HEC (Heavy Engineering Corporation) to not function, and in the coming days, they will replace the name HEC with an Adani nameplate. They want to privatise it,” Gandhi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections.

Rahul Gandhi, the leader of India’s biggest opposition Congress party, on Monday (Feb 5) promised a nationwide caste census and removal of 50 per cent cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power in the upcoming general elections. India’s major opposition parties have formed the bloc in an attempt to challenge incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking a third time in office. Gandhi’s big promise Gandhi made the promise while addressing a rally in Jharkhand's Ranchi. He said Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were made “bonded labourers” and they were not fairly represented in major corporations, big companies, schools and hospitals. "This is the biggest question before India. Our first step would be to get a caste census in the country,” Gandhi said. He added that the current regime doesn’t allow the total reservation to go beyond the 50 per cent mark, before going on to make the radical promise to remove the cap altogether. Watch: India: 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Congress' Rahul Gandhi to begin from Manipur × “If INDIA bloc comes to power, it will throw away the 50 per cent cap on reservation, ensure Dalits, tribals, OBCs get their rights,” the ex-Congress chief said. He added: "There will be no reduction in reservation of Dalits and Adivasis. I am giving you a guarantee that the backward sections of society will get their rights. This is the biggest issue - social and economic injustice" Gandhi takes on PM Modi Rahul Gandhi also accused the Indian PM of opposing the idea of a caste census. He added that Modi used to say he was an OBC leader but now says there are only two castes- the rich and the poor. "When the time came to give rights to OBCs, Dalits, tribals, Modi ji says there are no castes and when it is time to get votes, he says he is an OBC," Gandhi claimed. Also read: Ram Mandir inauguration ‘Modi’s function’: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM He also blamed PM Modi for “killing” the Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and handing them over to big industrialists. “Narendra Modi and his government are slowly killing the PSUs…The central government wants the HEC (Heavy Engineering Corporation) to not function, and in the coming days, they will replace the name HEC with an Adani nameplate. They want to privatise it,” Gandhi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history."

The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year.

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कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा। 
 
‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी।
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/1751150323379708043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-lose-nitish-kumar-bihar-cm-likely-to-switch-side-to-bjp-very-soon-684199">'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports</a>

"We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said.

The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA.

Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA.

(With inputs from agencies)

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history." The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year. कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा। ‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी। — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) January 27, 2024 × Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats. Also read: 'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports "We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said. The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA. Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Akhilesh Yadav says poll alliance with Congress ‘off to a good start’

As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance. The appointment was finalised during a virtual summit attended by the leaders of 14 Opposition parties constituting the alliance. The primary agenda of the meeting revolved around discussions on seat allocation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Notably, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was given the role of the convener but he refused it. He reportedly said that he would want someone from the Congress party to take up the convener's post. Also, Kumar was quoted as saying that he would only accept the role once all the parties were in consensus on the decision.

This comes as Janata Dal (United) had been exerting pressure within the coalition for Nitish Kumar's appointment as the convener. Interestingly, the TMC chief, Mamata Banerjee, opted to abstain from the meeting.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-consecration-ceremony-is-momentous-occasion-top-mauritius-minister-tells-wion-679558">‘Ram temple consecration ceremony is momentous occasion,’ top Mauritius minister tells WION</a>

INDIA, an acronym for 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance,' comprises various opposition parties, with the Congress being a prominent member.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-guwahati-bound-indigo-flight-ends-up-in-dhaka-after-emergency-landing-heres-why-679545">India: Guwahati-bound Indigo flight ends up in Dhaka after emergency landing. Here's why</a>

The coalition was formed by the opposition parties to challenge the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the helm at&nbsp;the centre. The INDIA alliance wants to thwart NDA's bid for a third consecutive term in the 2024 elections where in 543 members of the lower house of Parliament will be elected by the people.&nbsp;

In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections this year, media reports citing sources have revealed that the INDIA bloc will not present a common manifesto and instead, each party within the alliance will articulate its own manifesto.

Nevertheless, the said sources also revealed that the bloc will collaborate on a shared agenda.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-tech-sector-outlook-for-2024-679567">Indian Tech sector outlook for 2024</a>

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Seat-sharing talks earlier saw a deadlock. TMC did not join the latest INDIA&nbsp;alliance meeting. A leader of the party previously stated that the reason for not indulging in seat-sharing is the "Congress' impractical demand for eight to 10 seats in West Bengal, considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had dwindled to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls."

(With inputs from agencies)

As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance.

As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance. The appointment was finalised during a virtual summit attended by the leaders of 14 Opposition parties constituting the alliance. The primary agenda of the meeting revolved around discussions on seat allocation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls. Notably, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was given the role of the convener but he refused it. He reportedly said that he would want someone from the Congress party to take up the convener's post. Also, Kumar was quoted as saying that he would only accept the role once all the parties were in consensus on the decision. This comes as Janata Dal (United) had been exerting pressure within the coalition for Nitish Kumar's appointment as the convener. Interestingly, the TMC chief, Mamata Banerjee, opted to abstain from the meeting. Also Read | ‘Ram temple consecration ceremony is momentous occasion,’ top Mauritius minister tells WION INDIA, an acronym for 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance,' comprises various opposition parties, with the Congress being a prominent member. Also Read | India: Guwahati-bound Indigo flight ends up in Dhaka after emergency landing. Here's why The coalition was formed by the opposition parties to challenge the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the helm at the centre. The INDIA alliance wants to thwart NDA's bid for a third consecutive term in the 2024 elections where in 543 members of the lower house of Parliament will be elected by the people. In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections this year, media reports citing sources have revealed that the INDIA bloc will not present a common manifesto and instead, each party within the alliance will articulate its own manifesto. Nevertheless, the said sources also revealed that the bloc will collaborate on a shared agenda. Watch | Indian Tech sector outlook for 2024 × Seat-sharing talks earlier saw a deadlock. TMC did not join the latest INDIA alliance meeting. A leader of the party previously stated that the reason for not indulging in seat-sharing is the "Congress' impractical demand for eight to 10 seats in West Bengal, considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had dwindled to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls." (With inputs from agencies)

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge appointed INDIA bloc chairperson, Nitish rejects convener’s post

The Trinamool Congress is no longer interested in initiating fresh talks with the Congress regarding the seat sharing arrangement for the Lok Sabha polls this year as part of the INDIA bloc.

A veteran leader of the party and also a senior member of the West Bengal Cabinet said that the party supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was of the opinion that further talks with the Congress were useless on two grounds.

“The first reason is that the Congress' demand for eight to ten seats in West Bengal is totally absurd considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had come down to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls.

“Without a single member in the state Assembly and just two MPs in the Lok Sabha, the demand for eight to ten seats is nothing but overreach,” said a state Cabinet member.

He added, “It seems that the Congress leadership is more interested in a seat-sharing agreement with the CPI(M)-led Left Front rather than with the Trinamool Congress and hence the leadership of the state's ruling party does not find the necessity of initiating any further discussions on seat sharing with the Congress.”

Party insiders said that Mamata Banerjee was specially irked on receiving the information that the Congress along with the CPI(M) had taken an in-principle decision to back the lone All-India Secular Front (AISF)- candidate Naushad Siddique in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls from Diamond Harbour constituency in South 24 Parganas district from where the sitting MP is Trinamool Congress' General Secretary and the Chief Minister's nephew Abhishek Banerjee.

Recently Mamata Banerjee herself gave hints on this count as she said that while the Opposition INDIA bloc will continue in the national perspective, in West Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight alone.

Soon after that State Congress President and veteran Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury challenged the Chief Minister to contest against him from Baharampur Lok Sabha constituency in Murshidabad district from where he is a five-time MP.

The Trinamool Congress is no longer interested in initiating fresh talks with the Congress regarding the seat sharing arrangement for the Lok Sabha polls this year as part of the INDIA bloc.

The Trinamool Congress is no longer interested in initiating fresh talks with the Congress regarding the seat sharing arrangement for the Lok Sabha polls this year as part of the INDIA bloc. A veteran leader of the party and also a senior member of the West Bengal Cabinet said that the party supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was of the opinion that further talks with the Congress were useless on two grounds. “The first reason is that the Congress' demand for eight to ten seats in West Bengal is totally absurd considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had come down to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls. “Without a single member in the state Assembly and just two MPs in the Lok Sabha, the demand for eight to ten seats is nothing but overreach,” said a state Cabinet member. He added, “It seems that the Congress leadership is more interested in a seat-sharing agreement with the CPI(M)-led Left Front rather than with the Trinamool Congress and hence the leadership of the state's ruling party does not find the necessity of initiating any further discussions on seat sharing with the Congress.” Party insiders said that Mamata Banerjee was specially irked on receiving the information that the Congress along with the CPI(M) had taken an in-principle decision to back the lone All-India Secular Front (AISF)- candidate Naushad Siddique in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls from Diamond Harbour constituency in South 24 Parganas district from where the sitting MP is Trinamool Congress' General Secretary and the Chief Minister's nephew Abhishek Banerjee. Recently Mamata Banerjee herself gave hints on this count as she said that while the Opposition INDIA bloc will continue in the national perspective, in West Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight alone. Soon after that State Congress President and veteran Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury challenged the Chief Minister to contest against him from Baharampur Lok Sabha constituency in Murshidabad district from where he is a five-time MP.

India: TMC not interested in seat-sharing talks with Congress as part of the INDIA bloc

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