Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre.

The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform.

"There are at least five contenders for the Prime Minister's post in Opposition. There are more chances of their disillusionment (mohbhang). Who will form the government? This question has already been answered. Amit Shah said that BJP will win 300 seats and the party reached that target in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections only," Shiv Sena said in its editorial mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

"Why Chandrababu Naidu is exhausting himself without any reason? Hope his current excitement last till May 23. We wish him luck for the same," the party added.

TDP chief Naidu in the past week undertook a hectic round of discussions with parties opposed to BJP when he met leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Mahagathbandhan leaders -- Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati.

Naidu is on a mission of rallying opposition parties in a bid to keep the BJP out of power, in case its numbers fall short of majority considerably. Naidu also met CPI leader Sudhakar Reddy and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav.

Notably, BSP chief Mayawati was too expected to meet with Congress' top rung, however with exit polls giving a clear verdict in favour of the BJP and Prime Minister Narnedra Modi's leadership, Opposition leaders may change their plans and prefer to wait for the results on May 23.

Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre. The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform.

Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and mocked his efforts to form a non-BJP government at the Centre. The TDP chief's deliberations are part of his efforts to unite non-NDA parties and bring them together on one platform. "There are at least five contenders for the Prime Minister's post in Opposition. There are more chances of their disillusionment (mohbhang). Who will form the government? This question has already been answered. Amit Shah said that BJP will win 300 seats and the party reached that target in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections only," Shiv Sena said in its editorial mouthpiece 'Saamana'. "Why Chandrababu Naidu is exhausting himself without any reason? Hope his current excitement last till May 23. We wish him luck for the same," the party added. TDP chief Naidu in the past week undertook a hectic round of discussions with parties opposed to BJP when he met leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Mahagathbandhan leaders -- Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati. Naidu is on a mission of rallying opposition parties in a bid to keep the BJP out of power, in case its numbers fall short of majority considerably. Naidu also met CPI leader Sudhakar Reddy and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav. Notably, BSP chief Mayawati was too expected to meet with Congress' top rung, however with exit polls giving a clear verdict in favour of the BJP and Prime Minister Narnedra Modi's leadership, Opposition leaders may change their plans and prefer to wait for the results on May 23.

Hope Naidu's excitement last till May 23: Shiv Sena mocks Andhra CM 

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">exit poll results</a> showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019.

BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar. Domestic benchmark indices continued to extend their rally later in the day with the BSE Sensex climbing 1,300 points, Nifty touched 11,800 mark.

The 30-share index was trading 1,341 points or 3.54 per cent, higher at 39,271.77 points.

In similar movement, the broader NSE Nifty soared 393.95 points, or 3.45 per cent, to 11,801.10.&nbsp;

Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Maruti, L&amp;T, SBI, ICICI Bank, RIL, M&amp;M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank and Vedanta, rising up to 4 per cent.

On the other hand, Bajaj Auto, Infosys and HCL Tech slipped up to 2 per cent.

Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha.

The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday.

"The exit polls have been better than market expectations, with the ruling party getting a comfortable majority. The market is likely to rally further, but the rally may not be significant as there are challenges of not so encouraging earnings growth, lower liquidity, slowing economy and global challenges," said Naveen Kulkarni, Head of Research, Reliance Securities.

There could be a sector-specific rally. Infrastructure and banking stocks could do well, he added.

Meanwhile, market regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up.

Foreign institutional investors sold equity worth Rs 1,057.82 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares to the tune of Rs 1,809.76 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in China, Japan and Korea were trading on a mixed note in their respective early sessions.

On the currency front, the rupee appreciated by 79 paise to 69.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Monday.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading at 73.28 per barrel, higher by 1.48 per cent. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after exit poll results showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019. BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar.

Indian domestic stock markets cheered on Monday after exit poll results showed that the BJP-led NDA is likely to win the Lok Sabha polls 2019. BSE Sensex surged over 1000 points during the trade hours, and the rupee appreciated 79 paise against the US dollar. Domestic benchmark indices continued to extend their rally later in the day with the BSE Sensex climbing 1,300 points, Nifty touched 11,800 mark. The 30-share index was trading 1,341 points or 3.54 per cent, higher at 39,271.77 points. In similar movement, the broader NSE Nifty soared 393.95 points, or 3.45 per cent, to 11,801.10. Top gainers in the Sensex pack include Maruti, L&T, SBI, ICICI Bank, RIL, M&M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank and Vedanta, rising up to 4 per cent. On the other hand, Bajaj Auto, Infosys and HCL Tech slipped up to 2 per cent. Most exit polls Sunday forecast another term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with some of them projecting that BJP-led NDA will get more than 300 seats to comfortably cross the majority mark of 272 in the Lok Sabha. The results of the seven-phase polls will come out Thursday. "The exit polls have been better than market expectations, with the ruling party getting a comfortable majority. The market is likely to rally further, but the rally may not be significant as there are challenges of not so encouraging earnings growth, lower liquidity, slowing economy and global challenges," said Naveen Kulkarni, Head of Research, Reliance Securities. There could be a sector-specific rally. Infrastructure and banking stocks could do well, he added. Meanwhile, market regulator Sebi and stock exchanges have beefed up their surveillance mechanism to check any manipulative activities in the market this week in view of the high-octane election-related events lined up. Foreign institutional investors sold equity worth Rs 1,057.82 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares to the tune of Rs 1,809.76 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed. Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in China, Japan and Korea were trading on a mixed note in their respective early sessions. On the currency front, the rupee appreciated by 79 paise to 69.44 against the US dollar in opening trade Monday. Brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading at 73.28 per barrel, higher by 1.48 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

As exit polls predict NDA win, Sensex surges over 1,300 points; inches up to touch 39,271

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mayawati-likely-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-ahead-of-lok-sabha-poll-result-219973">BSP supremo Mayawati</a> and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met here on Monday after exit poll projections that the NDA is all set to form the government again at the Centre.

Yadav, who had formed a coalition with the BSP and the RLD to take on the BJP, drove to the residence of Mayawati.

Details of what transpired between the two top leaders were not known immediately.

BSP supremo Mayawati and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met here on Monday after exit poll projections that the NDA is all set to form the government again at the Centre.

BSP supremo Mayawati and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met here on Monday after exit poll projections that the NDA is all set to form the government again at the Centre. Yadav, who had formed a coalition with the BSP and the RLD to take on the BJP, drove to the residence of Mayawati. Details of what transpired between the two top leaders were not known immediately.

Mayawati meets Akhilesh Yadav after exit polls projections

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse. Kamal made the remarks while campaigning for his party Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Aravakurichi candidate.&nbsp;

It was at a public meeting on May 12&nbsp;that Haasan said that Independent India’s first terrorist was a Hindu, referring to Nathuram Godse who had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

This statement had generated political reactions from the BJP and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, which is part of the BJP-led NDA alliance. Hassan was accused of minority appeasement and the BJP had also complained to the Election Commission that his ‘remarks were made deliberately in the presence of a Muslim majority crowd for electoral gains’.

The FIR against his comments were filed in Aravakurichi based on the complaint filed by members of Hindu fringe groups. A case was registered under sections 153A and 295A.&nbsp;

The High Court’s Madurai bench had reserved its order last week.&nbsp;

After completing his last leg of campaigning, Kamal Haasan had clarified that “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.”

Elaborating that his comments were on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted.

There were also attempts of violence against the actor for his comments, as miscreants had hurled slippers, eggs and stones at rallies of the actor. However, they fell in the midst of the crowd and the actor was escorted to safety.&nbsp;

Haasan’s party Makkal Needhi Maiam is making its debut in the Parliamentary polls and the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s Assembly seats.

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse.

In what comes a major relief to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, the Madurai bench of the Madras High court has granted him Anticipatory bail on Monday, after the Police booked him for his controversial remarks on Nathuram Godse. Kamal made the remarks while campaigning for his party Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Aravakurichi candidate. It was at a public meeting on May 12 that Haasan said that Independent India’s first terrorist was a Hindu, referring to Nathuram Godse who had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. This statement had generated political reactions from the BJP and the ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, which is part of the BJP-led NDA alliance. Hassan was accused of minority appeasement and the BJP had also complained to the Election Commission that his ‘remarks were made deliberately in the presence of a Muslim majority crowd for electoral gains’. The FIR against his comments were filed in Aravakurichi based on the complaint filed by members of Hindu fringe groups. A case was registered under sections 153A and 295A. The High Court’s Madurai bench had reserved its order last week. After completing his last leg of campaigning, Kamal Haasan had clarified that “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.” Elaborating that his comments were on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted. There were also attempts of violence against the actor for his comments, as miscreants had hurled slippers, eggs and stones at rallies of the actor. However, they fell in the midst of the crowd and the actor was escorted to safety. Haasan’s party Makkal Needhi Maiam is making its debut in the Parliamentary polls and the by-polls to Tamil Nadu’s Assembly seats.

Nathuram Godse remark: Madras High Court grants anticipatory bail to Kamal Haasan

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections.

"I cast my vote just now, the public is with us (BJP). The mood of Patna Sahib is the same as that of the rest of the country, people want to make Modi Ji the Prime Minister again," Prasad told reporters outside his polling booth after casting his vote.

Prior to casting his vote Prasad, who was accompanied by his 88-year old mother, expressed the confidence that he will win.

"I am going to cast my vote, which is my democratic right. The country will achieve new levels of growth in the coming days. I am confident of my victory as always," Prasad told reporters at the time of leaving his house.

The BJP fielded Prasad against Congress leader and sitting MP from Patna Sahib Shatrughan Sinha. Sinha, a two time MP from the same seat is seeking re-election for the third time from the seat.

Bihar is seeing polling on 8 seats in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Sunday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be able to secure victory in the Lok Sabha elections and also cast his vote in the ongoing seventh phase of the elections. "I cast my vote just now, the public is with us (BJP). The mood of Patna Sahib is the same as that of the rest of the country, people want to make Modi Ji the Prime Minister again," Prasad told reporters outside his polling booth after casting his vote. Prior to casting his vote Prasad, who was accompanied by his 88-year old mother, expressed the confidence that he will win. "I am going to cast my vote, which is my democratic right. The country will achieve new levels of growth in the coming days. I am confident of my victory as always," Prasad told reporters at the time of leaving his house. The BJP fielded Prasad against Congress leader and sitting MP from Patna Sahib Shatrughan Sinha. Sinha, a two time MP from the same seat is seeking re-election for the third time from the seat. Bihar is seeing polling on 8 seats in the seventh and the final phase of the Lok Sabha polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Confident of my victory; people want to make 'Modi ji' PM again: Ravi Shankar Prasad

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse.

Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP. "Nitish Kumar should have resigned if he is hurt over Pragya Thakur's comment. He should have separated from BJP over this comment," she said speaking to ANI.&nbsp;

"We are getting 40 out of 40 seats. The Mahagathbandhan is relaxed. On May 23, everything will be clear," she added.

Pragya Thakur on May 16, stoked a huge controversy and left the BJP red-faced with her comment that Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was a 'true patriot', a statement her party condemned and asked her to apologise for it immediately.

The Opposition parties tore into Pragya, saying what she said reflected the mindset of the people nurtured in RSS ideology.

Thakur, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, is not new to courting controversies. After being fielded by the BJP in Bhopal, she had said Hemant Karkare, who was killed during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, died because she had cursed him. The statement had attracted all-round criticism including from the BJP which disowned it.

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse. Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP.

RJD leader Rabri Devi sought Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation after the latter condemned Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's comment on Nathuram Godse. Rabri told ANI that if Kumar was miffed over Thakur's remark then he should have separated from the BJP. "Nitish Kumar should have resigned if he is hurt over Pragya Thakur's comment. He should have separated from BJP over this comment," she said speaking to ANI. "We are getting 40 out of 40 seats. The Mahagathbandhan is relaxed. On May 23, everything will be clear," she added. Pragya Thakur on May 16, stoked a huge controversy and left the BJP red-faced with her comment that Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse was a 'true patriot', a statement her party condemned and asked her to apologise for it immediately. The Opposition parties tore into Pragya, saying what she said reflected the mindset of the people nurtured in RSS ideology. Thakur, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, is not new to courting controversies. After being fielded by the BJP in Bhopal, she had said Hemant Karkare, who was killed during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, died because she had cursed him. The statement had attracted all-round criticism including from the BJP which disowned it.

'Nitish should resign if he's hurt over Pragya Thakur's Godse remark': Rabri Devi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

The prime minister reached Badrinath after spending around 20 hours in the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath.

Modi offered prayers at innermost sanctum in Badrinath, another temple in Uttarakhand's 'char dham' religious circuit, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid obeisance and performed puja at Badrinath temple on the second day of his two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reported news agency PTI. The prime minister reached Badrinath after spending around 20 hours in the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath. Modi offered prayers at innermost sanctum in Badrinath, another temple in Uttarakhand's 'char dham' religious circuit, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs puja at Badrinath temple

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today.&nbsp;

As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting.&nbsp;

At booth number 326 in Raj Bhawan, after casting his vote Patna Nitish Kumar said that elections should not be held over such a long duration, there was a long gap between each phase of voting. I will write to leaders of all parties to build a consensus on this.&nbsp;

The battle for a total of 543 seats had started with elections in 91 constituencies across 20 states on April 11 in the first phase. The final vote count will be done May 23 and seal the fate of Indian politics when it will be finally decided if the incumbent BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi secure another term in the office or the anti-incumbency factor swings the tide.

Nearly 90 crore voters were eligible to vote for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies across the country.&nbsp;

This year Election Commission established approximately 10 lakh polling stations in 2019, compared to 9 lakh in 2014.

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today. As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting.

The seven-phase long Lok Sabha elections, one of the most bitterly fought in recent memory, will come to an end today. As the one and a half month-long dance of democracy ends today, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said that there was a long gap between each phase of voting. At booth number 326 in Raj Bhawan, after casting his vote Patna Nitish Kumar said that elections should not be held over such a long duration, there was a long gap between each phase of voting. I will write to leaders of all parties to build a consensus on this. The battle for a total of 543 seats had started with elections in 91 constituencies across 20 states on April 11 in the first phase. The final vote count will be done May 23 and seal the fate of Indian politics when it will be finally decided if the incumbent BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi secure another term in the office or the anti-incumbency factor swings the tide. Nearly 90 crore voters were eligible to vote for 543 Lok Sabha constituencies across the country. This year Election Commission established approximately 10 lakh polling stations in 2019, compared to 9 lakh in 2014.

Polls shouldn't be held over such a long duration, says Nitish Kumar

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties.

Gowda, a former prime minister, also expressed confidence his son and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy would complete his five-year term.

Yesterday also he (BJP president Amit Shah just like that said they may get more than 300 seatsno; so will Congress come to power? both are national parties they (Congress) too have difficulty.

Without the cooperation of regional parties, no national party can administer, he said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said, in the same way without (the support of) national parties no regional party can govern.

JDS, an ally of Congress in Karnataka, has already pledged its support to Congress President Rahul Gandhi in forming a government at the Centre.

Addressing a press conference Friday, Shah had said BJP will have enough seats to form a government on its own.

"We will get more than 300 seats. This election is to choose the country's Prime Minister. Narendra Modi will be the PM," he added.

Referring to doubts expressed over the longevity of the Kumaraswamy government, Gowda said such talks were on since his son became the Chief Minister last year and asserted the coalition government will remain in power and complete its term.

Rahul Gandhi and (UPA chairperson) Sonia Gandhi have decided they will support the coalition government under Kumaraswamys leadership for five years and even gave it in writing, he said, accusing the media of "creating confusion".

Congress and JDS forged a post-poll alliance to form the coalition government after the assembly elections threw up a hung verdict.

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties.

Dismissing BJP's assertion it will get more than 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, JDS supremo H D Deve Gowda Saturday said no national party can form the government without the support of regional parties. Gowda, a former prime minister, also expressed confidence his son and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy would complete his five-year term. Yesterday also he (BJP president Amit Shah just like that said they may get more than 300 seatsno; so will Congress come to power? both are national parties they (Congress) too have difficulty. Without the cooperation of regional parties, no national party can administer, he said. Speaking to reporters here, he said, in the same way without (the support of) national parties no regional party can govern. JDS, an ally of Congress in Karnataka, has already pledged its support to Congress President Rahul Gandhi in forming a government at the Centre. Addressing a press conference Friday, Shah had said BJP will have enough seats to form a government on its own. "We will get more than 300 seats. This election is to choose the country's Prime Minister. Narendra Modi will be the PM," he added. Referring to doubts expressed over the longevity of the Kumaraswamy government, Gowda said such talks were on since his son became the Chief Minister last year and asserted the coalition government will remain in power and complete its term. Rahul Gandhi and (UPA chairperson) Sonia Gandhi have decided they will support the coalition government under Kumaraswamys leadership for five years and even gave it in writing, he said, accusing the media of "creating confusion". Congress and JDS forged a post-poll alliance to form the coalition government after the assembly elections threw up a hung verdict.

Deve Gowda says no party can form government at Centre without support of regional players

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct.

"Even though the Election campaign for the last phase of polling for 2019 Lok Sabha is over as long as back on May 17 at 6 pm, surprisingly Narendra Modi's Kedarnath Yatra is being covered and widely televised for the last two days in all national as well as local media. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct," Trinamool Congress spokesperson Derek O'Brien said in the letter.

He said the prime minister even announced that the master plan for the Kedarnath Temple is ready and also addressed the public and the media at the temple town.

"it is absolutely unethical and morally incorrect."

"Every minute detail of his activities during the visit is being widely publicised with an ulterior motive to influence voters directly and/or indirectly."

"Modi Modi" chants are also being heard from the background," he said.

The TMC leader said all these moves were well calculated with the "ill intention to influence the voters" on the polling day.

It is unfortunate that the poll body has not taken any action against the PM, it added.

"Election Commission, the highest body and the eyes and ears of the democratic process, remains blind and deaf to the gross violation of the MCC. I would request you to take immediate action and stop telecast of such surreptitious and unfair campaign which is also morally wrong," he said.

Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reached Kedarnath on Saturday and is expected to be at Badrinath temple Sunday.

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct.

The TMC wrote to the Election Commission Sunday alleging the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath is a violation of the model code of conduct. "Even though the Election campaign for the last phase of polling for 2019 Lok Sabha is over as long as back on May 17 at 6 pm, surprisingly Narendra Modi's Kedarnath Yatra is being covered and widely televised for the last two days in all national as well as local media. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct," Trinamool Congress spokesperson Derek O'Brien said in the letter. He said the prime minister even announced that the master plan for the Kedarnath Temple is ready and also addressed the public and the media at the temple town. "it is absolutely unethical and morally incorrect." "Every minute detail of his activities during the visit is being widely publicised with an ulterior motive to influence voters directly and/or indirectly." "Modi Modi" chants are also being heard from the background," he said. The TMC leader said all these moves were well calculated with the "ill intention to influence the voters" on the polling day. It is unfortunate that the poll body has not taken any action against the PM, it added. "Election Commission, the highest body and the eyes and ears of the democratic process, remains blind and deaf to the gross violation of the MCC. I would request you to take immediate action and stop telecast of such surreptitious and unfair campaign which is also morally wrong," he said. Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Uttarakhand, reached Kedarnath on Saturday and is expected to be at Badrinath temple Sunday.

Trinamool complaints to poll panel, says PM Modi's visit to Kedarnath violates Model Code of Conduct

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday&nbsp;beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car.&nbsp;

Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI Lalu Prasad Yadav’s elder son said, “My bouncers have not done anything. I was leaving after casting my vote when a photographer hit the windscreen of my car. I have filed an FIR in the incident. A conspiracy is being hatched to kill me.”

The former RJD leader has filed an FIR in the incident.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards in Patna beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap Yadav was leaving after casting his vote. Yadav has filed an FIR in the incident. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/u1KzKDCGBG">pic.twitter.com/u1KzKDCGBG</a>
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Meanwhile, voting is underway across fifty-nine seats in eight states in the final round of the Lok Sabha elections that began 38 days ago.

Fresh violence is being reported across West Bengal. Bombing incidents allegedly took place outside Basirhat polling booth, in Mathurapur village and in Islampur, where bypolls are underway. A BJP camp was also set to fire in Barasat. Meanwhile, in Basirhat, BJP alleged that 100 voters were barred from casting their votes.&nbsp;

EVM malfunction across Punjab and Bihar were reported. Reports of violent clashes between workers of various parties are coming in from Punjab, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, too.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards on Sunday beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap was leaving after casting his vote at Veterinary College in Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency. Speaking to ANI Lalu Prasad Yadav’s elder son said, “My bouncers have not done anything. I was leaving after casting my vote when a photographer hit the windscreen of my car. I have filed an FIR in the incident. A conspiracy is being hatched to kill me.” The former RJD leader has filed an FIR in the incident. #WATCH Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards in Patna beat a camera person after he allegedly broke the windscreen of Yadav's car. Tej Pratap Yadav was leaving after casting his vote. Yadav has filed an FIR in the incident. #Bihar pic.twitter.com/u1KzKDCGBG — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2019 × Meanwhile, voting is underway across fifty-nine seats in eight states in the final round of the Lok Sabha elections that began 38 days ago. Fresh violence is being reported across West Bengal. Bombing incidents allegedly took place outside Basirhat polling booth, in Mathurapur village and in Islampur, where bypolls are underway. A BJP camp was also set to fire in Barasat. Meanwhile, in Basirhat, BJP alleged that 100 voters were barred from casting their votes. EVM malfunction across Punjab and Bihar were reported. Reports of violent clashes between workers of various parties are coming in from Punjab, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, too.

Video: Tej Pratap Yadav's personal security guards beat up a journalist in Patna

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-to-meet-rahul-gandhi-akhilesh-and-mayawati-on-saturday-219506">TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu </a>Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared.

Before meeting the Congress chief, Naidu, who is spearheading an effort to cobble up an anti-BJP front, met CPI leaders Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja.&nbsp;

He is scheduled to meet NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and LJD leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital later in the day.

The Andhra Pradesh chief minister is also scheduled to meet BSP chief Mayawati and SP president Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow in the evening.

In an hour-long meeting with Gandhi, sources said, Naidu discussed the impending need to bring together all parties which are against the BJP after the Lok Sabha election results are declared on May 23.

Sources said Naidu also told Gandhi to have a strategy ready in case the BJP falls short of numbers and still stakes claim to form the government.

Naidu is also in touch with Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee over the phone on this issue, the sources added.

On Friday, Naidu had said that not only the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) but any outfit which is against the saffron party are welcome to join a grand alliance after the election results are declared.

He had also met AAP convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as well as CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on the matter.

The seven-phase polling will end on Sunday and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu Saturday met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed firming up an anti-BJP front to keep the saffron party out of power after poll results are declared. Before meeting the Congress chief, Naidu, who is spearheading an effort to cobble up an anti-BJP front, met CPI leaders Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja. He is scheduled to meet NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and LJD leader Sharad Yadav in the national capital later in the day. The Andhra Pradesh chief minister is also scheduled to meet BSP chief Mayawati and SP president Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow in the evening. In an hour-long meeting with Gandhi, sources said, Naidu discussed the impending need to bring together all parties which are against the BJP after the Lok Sabha election results are declared on May 23. Sources said Naidu also told Gandhi to have a strategy ready in case the BJP falls short of numbers and still stakes claim to form the government. Naidu is also in touch with Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee over the phone on this issue, the sources added. On Friday, Naidu had said that not only the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) but any outfit which is against the saffron party are welcome to join a grand alliance after the election results are declared. He had also met AAP convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as well as CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on the matter. The seven-phase polling will end on Sunday and the counting of votes will be done on May 23.

TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu meets Rahul Gandhi, discusses firming up anti-BJP front

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand.

Elections will be held in three seats - Dumka, Rajmahal and Godda on Sunday.

Soren, the chief of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and an 8th term sitting MP is in the fray from Dumka seat once again. He is crossing swords with BJP's Sunil Soren. The JMM leader had defeated his BJP challenger twice in 2009 and 2014.

Altogether 45,64,681 electors, including 22,00,119 female and 21 third gender voters are eligible to exercise their franchise, an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-issues-notice-to-sunny-deol-for-violating-poll-code-219547">Election Commission </a>release said.

While 15 candidates are in the fray in Dumka, 14 are trying their luck from Rajmahal and 13 in Godda.

The JMM, the Congress and the JVM of former chief minister Babulal Marandi have formed 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), putting up candidates against the BJP nominees in the 14 seats of the state.

JMM's sitting MP, Vijay Kumar Hansda, is facing a tough challenge from BJP's Hemlal Murmu from Rajmahal seat. Hansda had defeated Murmu in 2014.

Murmu, who was a four-time MLA and had won the Rajmahal Lok Sabha seat in 2004 as JMM candidate, joined the BJP in 2014.

Sitting BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is also facing a fight from JVM MLA Pradip Yadav from Godda seat.

Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Ajsu party president Sudesh Mahto camped in the Santhal Pargana region for several days, campaigning for the BJP candidates.

This is the first time that Ajsu party has an alliance with the BJP in any Lok Sabha elections with the party getting the lone Giridih seat as per the seat sharing arrangement.

Chief Electorate Officer L Khiangte said that 6,258 control units, as many ballot units and 6,258 VVPATs have been set up in the three constituencies, besides keeping 1,260 control units, as many ballot units and 1,884 VVPATs in reserve.

There are 6,258 polling stations with 27,536 polling personnel manning them.

A total of 589 polling stations will have webcasting facility while 137 polling stations will be manned by only women polling personnel.

Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said that 37,398 security personnel have been deployed across the three constituencies as part of security arrangements.

An Air ambulance will be available for emergency services, he said, adding locations of sensitive booths will be under helicopter surveillance.

Polling personnel of seven polling stations will be dropped by helicopter, he said.&nbsp;

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand.

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand. Elections will be held in three seats - Dumka, Rajmahal and Godda on Sunday. Soren, the chief of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and an 8th term sitting MP is in the fray from Dumka seat once again. He is crossing swords with BJP's Sunil Soren. The JMM leader had defeated his BJP challenger twice in 2009 and 2014. Altogether 45,64,681 electors, including 22,00,119 female and 21 third gender voters are eligible to exercise their franchise, an Election Commission release said. While 15 candidates are in the fray in Dumka, 14 are trying their luck from Rajmahal and 13 in Godda. The JMM, the Congress and the JVM of former chief minister Babulal Marandi have formed 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), putting up candidates against the BJP nominees in the 14 seats of the state. JMM's sitting MP, Vijay Kumar Hansda, is facing a tough challenge from BJP's Hemlal Murmu from Rajmahal seat. Hansda had defeated Murmu in 2014. Murmu, who was a four-time MLA and had won the Rajmahal Lok Sabha seat in 2004 as JMM candidate, joined the BJP in 2014. Sitting BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is also facing a fight from JVM MLA Pradip Yadav from Godda seat. Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Ajsu party president Sudesh Mahto camped in the Santhal Pargana region for several days, campaigning for the BJP candidates. This is the first time that Ajsu party has an alliance with the BJP in any Lok Sabha elections with the party getting the lone Giridih seat as per the seat sharing arrangement. Chief Electorate Officer L Khiangte said that 6,258 control units, as many ballot units and 6,258 VVPATs have been set up in the three constituencies, besides keeping 1,260 control units, as many ballot units and 1,884 VVPATs in reserve. There are 6,258 polling stations with 27,536 polling personnel manning them. A total of 589 polling stations will have webcasting facility while 137 polling stations will be manned by only women polling personnel. Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said that 37,398 security personnel have been deployed across the three constituencies as part of security arrangements. An Air ambulance will be available for emergency services, he said, adding locations of sensitive booths will be under helicopter surveillance. Polling personnel of seven polling stations will be dropped by helicopter, he said.

Jharkhand: 42 candidates in fray in three Lok Sabha seats

Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Friday submitted a report to the Election Commission (EC) over the statement of BJP candidate from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-issues-notice-to-pragya-singh-thakur-over-campaigning-despite-72-hour-ban-216032">Bhopal Pragya Singh Thakur,</a> who termed Mahatma Gandhi's assassin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iew-row-over-sadhvi-pragya-thakurs-comments-219226">Nathuram Godse a deshbhakt (patriot)</a>.

The state election officials have forwarded a report to the EC in this regard, MP CEO V L Kanthrao said.

Asked about details of the report, he said, We will share them after the EC takes a decision in this regard.

Earlier in the day, the District Election Officer of the Agar Malwa district submitted his report to the CEO in the matter of Pragya Singh Thakur's statement on Godse.

The poll panel had taken cognisance of Pragya's remarks describing Mahatma Gandhi's assassin as a "patriot" on Thursday after a host of political parties condemned her remark.

Pragya has apologised for her comment and retracted the statement.

"It was my personal opinion remark. My intention was not to hurt anyone's sentiments. If I've hurt anyone I do apologise. What Gandhi Ji has done for the country cannot be forgotten. My statement has been twisted by the media," Pragya, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, said. She also tweeted her apology.

On Thursday, in response to a question over actor- turned-politician Kamal Haasan's remark that "free India's first terrorist was a Hindu", Pragya had said, "Nathuram Godse was a deshbhakt (patriot), he is and will remain a deshbhakt. Those calling him a terrorist should look at themselves. They will be given a befitting reply in this election."

Earlier this month, the EC had barred Pragya from campaigning for three days for violating the Model Code of Conduct by stirring up communal feelings. The poll watchdog had said in its order that the decision came in light of her comments against slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare and on the demolition of the Babri Masjid.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Friday submitted a report to the Election Commission (EC) over the statement of BJP candidate from Bhopal Pragya Singh Thakur, who termed Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a deshbhakt (patriot).

Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Friday submitted a report to the Election Commission (EC) over the statement of BJP candidate from Bhopal Pragya Singh Thakur, who termed Mahatma Gandhi's assassin Nathuram Godse a deshbhakt (patriot). The state election officials have forwarded a report to the EC in this regard, MP CEO V L Kanthrao said. Asked about details of the report, he said, We will share them after the EC takes a decision in this regard. Earlier in the day, the District Election Officer of the Agar Malwa district submitted his report to the CEO in the matter of Pragya Singh Thakur's statement on Godse. The poll panel had taken cognisance of Pragya's remarks describing Mahatma Gandhi's assassin as a "patriot" on Thursday after a host of political parties condemned her remark. Pragya has apologised for her comment and retracted the statement. "It was my personal opinion remark. My intention was not to hurt anyone's sentiments. If I've hurt anyone I do apologise. What Gandhi Ji has done for the country cannot be forgotten. My statement has been twisted by the media," Pragya, an accused in the Malegaon blast case, said. She also tweeted her apology. On Thursday, in response to a question over actor- turned-politician Kamal Haasan's remark that "free India's first terrorist was a Hindu", Pragya had said, "Nathuram Godse was a deshbhakt (patriot), he is and will remain a deshbhakt. Those calling him a terrorist should look at themselves. They will be given a befitting reply in this election." Earlier this month, the EC had barred Pragya from campaigning for three days for violating the Model Code of Conduct by stirring up communal feelings. The poll watchdog had said in its order that the decision came in light of her comments against slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare and on the demolition of the Babri Masjid.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Election Officer submits report to Election Commission on Pragya Singh's Godse statement

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/congress-has-no-problem-if-it-did-not-get-pms-post-ghulam-nabi-azad-219122/amp">Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad </a>on Friday appeared to have made a U-turn saying his party must be given a chance if a stable government is needed at the Centre, in remarks that came a day after he had said that Congress was only keen on defeating NDA and the prime minister`s post was not its primary concern.

"No, it is not true that Congress will not claim the Prime Minister`s post. We are the biggest and oldest political party. If the government is to run for five years, the biggest political party should be given a chance. But what I have been saying is that while we are in the midst of elections we should not fight among ourselves. It (PM`s post) should be decided by consensus," Azad told ANI here.

On Thursday, Azad had asserted that his party was only interested in defeating NDA and getting the Prime Minister`s post was not its primary concerns.

"We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in the favour of Congress, then the party will take the lead but our aim has always been that NDA government should not come."

"We will go with the unanimous decision. 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)," Azad told reporters on Thursday.

On Friday, Azad said his party was going to become the largest party post-elections aiming for 273-plus seats on their own.

"Congress is going to have the maximum number of members in Parliament. We are looking to secure 273-plus seats this time, which is easily achievable for us. We have done it in the past, we will do it again," he said.

He also expressed hope that the Congress government under Rahul Gandhi would give the country a stable government for the next five years.

"Rahul Gandhi is competent enough to become the Prime Minister of the country. Manmohan Singhji, Atalji`s government lasted for the full term because they had the largest number of MPs, so if you want a stable government this time Congress is the only choice," he said.

Azad`s statements came after parties in the NDA alliance, especially BJP, urged the mahagathbandhan to declare its prime ministerial candidate. NDA claimed there was a lack of unanimity between the opposition in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Friday appeared to have made a U-turn saying his party must be given a chance if a stable government is needed at the Centre, in remarks that came a day after he had said that Congress was only keen on defeating NDA and the prime minister`s post was not its primary concern.

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Friday appeared to have made a U-turn saying his party must be given a chance if a stable government is needed at the Centre, in remarks that came a day after he had said that Congress was only keen on defeating NDA and the prime minister`s post was not its primary concern. "No, it is not true that Congress will not claim the Prime Minister`s post. We are the biggest and oldest political party. If the government is to run for five years, the biggest political party should be given a chance. But what I have been saying is that while we are in the midst of elections we should not fight among ourselves. It (PM`s post) should be decided by consensus," Azad told ANI here. On Thursday, Azad had asserted that his party was only interested in defeating NDA and getting the Prime Minister`s post was not its primary concerns. "We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in the favour of Congress, then the party will take the lead but our aim has always been that NDA government should not come." "We will go with the unanimous decision. 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)," Azad told reporters on Thursday. On Friday, Azad said his party was going to become the largest party post-elections aiming for 273-plus seats on their own. "Congress is going to have the maximum number of members in Parliament. We are looking to secure 273-plus seats this time, which is easily achievable for us. We have done it in the past, we will do it again," he said. He also expressed hope that the Congress government under Rahul Gandhi would give the country a stable government for the next five years. "Rahul Gandhi is competent enough to become the Prime Minister of the country. Manmohan Singhji, Atalji`s government lasted for the full term because they had the largest number of MPs, so if you want a stable government this time Congress is the only choice," he said. Azad`s statements came after parties in the NDA alliance, especially BJP, urged the mahagathbandhan to declare its prime ministerial candidate. NDA claimed there was a lack of unanimity between the opposition in the Lok Sabha elections.

Ghulam Nabi Azad takes U-turn after stating PM post was not Congress party's primary concern

Contending that the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-concerned-about-people-sonia-about-sons-pmship-nitin-gadkari-219108"> BJP </a>does not pay heed to its ideas and suggestions, the NPF, a partner in the saffron party-led alliance in the state, has convened a meeting of its leaders on Saturday to decide if it would continue to stay in the coalition or withdraw support.

Denying the allegation, the BJP said it has extended all possible facilities to its partners to ensure smooth functioning of the government.

Talking to PTI, Awangbou Newmai, the state unit chief of the Naga People's Front (NPF), claimed that the BJP "looks down" on its alliance partners.

"The BJP has never respected the spirit of the alliance since the formation of government in 2016. There have been instances when their leaders have refused to consider our members as alliance partners," he said, without elaborating.

The NPF has four MLAs in the 60-member Assembly.

Of the four MLAs, Loshii Dikho, who won from Mao Assembly constituency, is a cabinet minister.

Newmai also said that the saffron party did not live up to the promises it made to its coalition partners.

"The NPF has always considered the BJP as its big brother, but that did not stop the saffron party from bluffing to us. We haven't got our due respect," he claimed.

Rebutting Newmai's claims, Ch Bijoy, the spokesperson of the BJP, said the NPF had maintained that it did not want any ministerial berth while joining the alliance, but now it seems the party has several demands.

"The allegations made by the NPF are totally baseless and unfounded. All possible facilities have been provided to our coalition partners for smooth functioning of the government," he added.

Contending that the BJP does not pay heed to its ideas and suggestions, the NPF, a partner in the saffron party-led alliance in the state, has convened a meeting of its leaders on Saturday to decide if it would continue to stay in the coalition or withdraw support.

Contending that the BJP does not pay heed to its ideas and suggestions, the NPF, a partner in the saffron party-led alliance in the state, has convened a meeting of its leaders on Saturday to decide if it would continue to stay in the coalition or withdraw support. Denying the allegation, the BJP said it has extended all possible facilities to its partners to ensure smooth functioning of the government. Talking to PTI, Awangbou Newmai, the state unit chief of the Naga People's Front (NPF), claimed that the BJP "looks down" on its alliance partners. "The BJP has never respected the spirit of the alliance since the formation of government in 2016. There have been instances when their leaders have refused to consider our members as alliance partners," he said, without elaborating. The NPF has four MLAs in the 60-member Assembly. Of the four MLAs, Loshii Dikho, who won from Mao Assembly constituency, is a cabinet minister. Newmai also said that the saffron party did not live up to the promises it made to its coalition partners. "The NPF has always considered the BJP as its big brother, but that did not stop the saffron party from bluffing to us. We haven't got our due respect," he claimed. Rebutting Newmai's claims, Ch Bijoy, the spokesperson of the BJP, said the NPF had maintained that it did not want any ministerial berth while joining the alliance, but now it seems the party has several demands. "The allegations made by the NPF are totally baseless and unfounded. All possible facilities have been provided to our coalition partners for smooth functioning of the government," he added.

NPF to review its alliance with BJP in Manipur

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said Congress' NYAY scheme is not a permanent solution for eliminating poverty.

NYAY is a flagship scheme of the Congress party under which it has promised Rs 72,000 to 5 crore families every year if the party is voted to power.

"To influence voters, especially the extremely poor, Congress party announced Rs 6000 per month for them. This is not a permanent solution of eliminating poverty," she said while addressing an election rally here.

"Keeping this in mind, we would like to say that if we get an opportunity to form government at the centre then instead of providing Rs 6,000 per month to extremely poor families, we'll give them permanent jobs in government and non-government sectors," she added.

The BSP chief was campaigning for its candidate Atul Rai from Ghosi Lok Sabha constituency.

Rai, who is an accused in a rape case, is absconding.

In April, a college student in Varanasi had accused Rai of sexually assaulting her. The victim had alleged that she was taken by Rai to his residence on the pretext of meeting his wife. An FIR has been lodged against Rai in the matter.

Ghosi and 12 parliamentary constituencies of Uttar Pradesh will go to polls on May 19.

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said Congress' NYAY scheme is not a permanent solution for eliminating poverty. NYAY is a flagship scheme of the Congress party under which it has promised Rs 72,000 to 5 crore families every year if the party is voted to power.

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said Congress' NYAY scheme is not a permanent solution for eliminating poverty. NYAY is a flagship scheme of the Congress party under which it has promised Rs 72,000 to 5 crore families every year if the party is voted to power. "To influence voters, especially the extremely poor, Congress party announced Rs 6000 per month for them. This is not a permanent solution of eliminating poverty," she said while addressing an election rally here. "Keeping this in mind, we would like to say that if we get an opportunity to form government at the centre then instead of providing Rs 6,000 per month to extremely poor families, we'll give them permanent jobs in government and non-government sectors," she added. The BSP chief was campaigning for its candidate Atul Rai from Ghosi Lok Sabha constituency. Rai, who is an accused in a rape case, is absconding. In April, a college student in Varanasi had accused Rai of sexually assaulting her. The victim had alleged that she was taken by Rai to his residence on the pretext of meeting his wife. An FIR has been lodged against Rai in the matter. Ghosi and 12 parliamentary constituencies of Uttar Pradesh will go to polls on May 19.

Congress' NYAY not a permanent solution to eliminate poverty: Mayawati

Union minister Nitin Gadkari Wednesday said while the BJP is concerned about resolving the people's woes, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi is worried about how her son and Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the prime minister.

He was addressing a rally at Alirajpur under Ratlam Jhabua Lok Sabha seat in Madhya Pradesh.

"We are worried about how people should get power, farmers get right price for their produce, but Sonia ji is worried that how Rahul should become the prime minister," he said.

"In Congress, a prime minister is born to a prime minister, a chief minister to a chief minister, an MP to an MP and an MLA is born to an MLA. There is no existence of a common worker in that party," he said.

Warning Pakistan over cross-border terrorism, he said India will be forced to take a tough decision of stopping its share of water from three common rivers.

He said that when Indira Gandhi became the prime minister, she had promised to remove poverty and the same promise was made by Rajiv Gandhi (former PM) and the Manmohan Singh government under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi.

"But they failed to do so... Now, Rahul Gandhi has been promising to eliminate poverty. Tell me whether the Congress has kept its promise," he asked the gathering.

Although BJP chief Amit Shah was earlier scheduled to address these rallies, his visit was cancelled and Gadkari was deputed in his place.

Polling in Dhar and Ratlam-Jhabua Lok Sabha seats will take place on May 19.

The BJP has fielded GS Damor from Ratlam Jhabua seat against sitting Congress MP Kantilal Bhuria.

In Dhar, the saffron party has fielded Chhatar Singh Darbar against Dinesh Girewal of Congress.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari Wednesday said while the BJP is concerned about resolving the people's woes, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi is worried about how her son and Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the prime minister.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari Wednesday said while the BJP is concerned about resolving the people's woes, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi is worried about how her son and Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the prime minister. He was addressing a rally at Alirajpur under Ratlam Jhabua Lok Sabha seat in Madhya Pradesh. "We are worried about how people should get power, farmers get right price for their produce, but Sonia ji is worried that how Rahul should become the prime minister," he said. "In Congress, a prime minister is born to a prime minister, a chief minister to a chief minister, an MP to an MP and an MLA is born to an MLA. There is no existence of a common worker in that party," he said. Warning Pakistan over cross-border terrorism, he said India will be forced to take a tough decision of stopping its share of water from three common rivers. He said that when Indira Gandhi became the prime minister, she had promised to remove poverty and the same promise was made by Rajiv Gandhi (former PM) and the Manmohan Singh government under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi. "But they failed to do so... Now, Rahul Gandhi has been promising to eliminate poverty. Tell me whether the Congress has kept its promise," he asked the gathering. Although BJP chief Amit Shah was earlier scheduled to address these rallies, his visit was cancelled and Gadkari was deputed in his place. Polling in Dhar and Ratlam-Jhabua Lok Sabha seats will take place on May 19. The BJP has fielded GS Damor from Ratlam Jhabua seat against sitting Congress MP Kantilal Bhuria. In Dhar, the saffron party has fielded Chhatar Singh Darbar against Dinesh Girewal of Congress.

BJP concerned about people, Sonia about son's PMship: Nitin Gadkari

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 16th 2019

The Election Commission is learnt to have asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-suspends-over-166000-terrorist-accounts-for-promoting-terrorism-217484">Twitter</a> to take down an exit poll-related tweet.

The EC's move came after it received<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-facebook-twitter-have-to-do-more-to-fight-fake-news-european-union-212915"> certain "complaint"</a>, sources aware of the development said Thursday, adding that the user later removed the tweet.

The sources, however, did not specify the complaint.

"There is no such general order issued by ECI today. Only one case was reported to us today which the user himself removed," a senior functionary said.

The move came a day after it issued a show-cause notice to three media outlets for allegedly publishing a survey "predicting results" of Lok Sabha elections.

Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act states that "no person shall conduct any exit poll and publish or publicise by means of the print or electronic media... The result of any exit poll during such period... In case of a general election, the period may commence from the beginning of the hours fixed for a poll on the first day of poll and continue till half an hour after closing of the poll in all the states and union territories."

The section also prescribes that any person, who contravenes the provisions of this section, shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or with both.

Polling for the seventh and last phase of Lok Sabha elections will be held on May 19.

The Election Commission is learnt to have asked Twitter to take down an exit poll-related tweet. The EC's move came after it received certain "complaint", sources aware of the development said Thursday, adding that the user later removed the tweet.

The Election Commission is learnt to have asked Twitter to take down an exit poll-related tweet. The EC's move came after it received certain "complaint", sources aware of the development said Thursday, adding that the user later removed the tweet. The sources, however, did not specify the complaint. "There is no such general order issued by ECI today. Only one case was reported to us today which the user himself removed," a senior functionary said. The move came a day after it issued a show-cause notice to three media outlets for allegedly publishing a survey "predicting results" of Lok Sabha elections. Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act states that "no person shall conduct any exit poll and publish or publicise by means of the print or electronic media... The result of any exit poll during such period... In case of a general election, the period may commence from the beginning of the hours fixed for a poll on the first day of poll and continue till half an hour after closing of the poll in all the states and union territories." The section also prescribes that any person, who contravenes the provisions of this section, shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or with both. Polling for the seventh and last phase of Lok Sabha elections will be held on May 19.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Election Commission asks Twitter India to remove all tweets related to exit polls

Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj has slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi by saying that his act of trashing the ordinance in 2013 was the height of "arrogance".

In a tweet on Tuesday, Swaraj reminded Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ncpcr-notice-to-priyanka-gandhi-over-use-of-children-in-electioneering-215473&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIloKQvYviAhUYi3AKHbMFBSIQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2brFPHnjK8B7KNimdgPWzJ">Priyanka Gandhi </a>that her brother Rahul Gandhi had "insulted" the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by tearing apart the ordinance issued by the President.

"Priyanka Ji, today you talked about arrogance. Let me remind you that when Rahul insulted his own Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh by tearing apart the ordinance issued by the President, it was the height of arrogance," Swaraj tweeted."What are you talking about? (kaun kisko suna raha hai)," Swaraj asked.

Her tweets came in response to Priyanka`s statement at a rally in Ambala. Earlier&nbsp;in the day, while speaking at a rally in Ambala, Haryana, Priyanka Gandhi had said, "The BJP needs to learn from the fate of Duryodhana from Mahabharata that this country has never forgiven the arrogant."

The Union Minister also took pot-shots at West Bengal CM and TMC leader Mamta Banerjee for her refusal to talk to PM Modi to assess the impacts of cyclone "Fani".She invoked a couplet written by Bashir Badr to hit out at Mamta Banerjee.

"Mamta Ji, today you have crossed all limits. You are the Chief Minister of the state and Modi Ji&nbsp;is the Prime Minister of the country. Tomorrow, you will have to talk to him," Swaraj said in another tweet.

Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj has slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi by saying that his act of trashing the ordinance in 2013 was the height of "arrogance".

Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj has slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi by saying that his act of trashing the ordinance in 2013 was the height of "arrogance". In a tweet on Tuesday, Swaraj reminded Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi that her brother Rahul Gandhi had "insulted" the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by tearing apart the ordinance issued by the President. "Priyanka Ji, today you talked about arrogance. Let me remind you that when Rahul insulted his own Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh by tearing apart the ordinance issued by the President, it was the height of arrogance," Swaraj tweeted."What are you talking about? (kaun kisko suna raha hai)," Swaraj asked. Her tweets came in response to Priyanka`s statement at a rally in Ambala. Earlier in the day, while speaking at a rally in Ambala, Haryana, Priyanka Gandhi had said, "The BJP needs to learn from the fate of Duryodhana from Mahabharata that this country has never forgiven the arrogant." The Union Minister also took pot-shots at West Bengal CM and TMC leader Mamta Banerjee for her refusal to talk to PM Modi to assess the impacts of cyclone "Fani".She invoked a couplet written by Bashir Badr to hit out at Mamta Banerjee. "Mamta Ji, today you have crossed all limits. You are the Chief Minister of the state and Modi Ji is the Prime Minister of the country. Tomorrow, you will have to talk to him," Swaraj said in another tweet.

Rahul Gandhi's act of trashing ordinance was height of arrogance: Sushma Swaraj

Expressing concern about political discourse hitting a new low in Election 2019, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Badal says politics should not become an "India versus Pakistan" situation.

The chief of one of BJP's oldest allies hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a decisive and strong prime minister and said he is the only choice to steer the NDA after the Lok Sabha election results.

We need a strong prime minister...after so many years we got a prime minister who is decisive. You can't let the country run on auto mode...we need a leader who can take the country on the path of faster growth, Badal told PTI in an interview.

He also articulated his concerns about personal attacks against leaders and the quality of leaders in the ongoing Lok Sabha election, now in its last lap.

"We politicians are not enemies...we are not like India-Pakistan...politics should not be like India versus Pakistan, which it is unfortunately becoming.

Everyone has their own views but still we are all Indians and the interest of the country is important for us, Badal said.

"There may be a platform where we may have to be together against a common enemy, Badal added.

Asked if the NDA might need new partners after the results and demand a change of leadership, he said, "People are voting for him (Modi) and he is the right person to lead the country. I think we should stick with him post results. He is the only choice.

Asked whether the NDA would otherwise be ready to sit in opposition, Badal nodded and said, Yeah, yeah.

Badal is contesting Lok Sabha elections after 15 years as the SAD-BJP candidate from the Ferozepur Lok Sabha constituency, which votes on May 19 in the last round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections.

Discussing the situation in Punjab, Badal said the biggest issue in the state is non-performance of the Congress government led by Captain Amarinder Singh which has failed on all fronts.

The SAD is contesting 10 of Punjab's 13 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP three.

Amarinder Singh is the most incompetent chief minister in the country. In Punjab, there is very strong sentiment against the chief minister. He doesn't travel through the state, the SAD chief said.

Taking on the Gandhi family, he described them as a liability for the Congress in the state "in terms of sentiments.

He also referred to Operation Bluestar, the Army operation to flush out militants in 1984 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister, and the anti-Sikh riots that followed her assassination.

"The biggest sacrilege was done by Congress, they attacked Golden Temple. There can't be bigger sacrilege than this... it is also responsible for killing innocent Sikhs in 1984 in the national capital.

When asked about AAP's prospects in Punjab, Badal said the people have discarded the party and it no longer has any relevance in the state.

It is a typical Punjabi nature to try something new. Once they found it is of no benefit or of new use they discard it... the same is the case with AAP in Punjab,

He said his priority will always be his state.

I am contesting elections as party workers in Ferozepur demanded a candidate from the family. But my focus will be Punjab, said the son of party stalwart Parkash Singh Badal.

Sukhbir Badal's wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal is contesting from the Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency.

Confident of SAD-BJP alliance's better performance than 2014, when it won six of 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state, Sukhbir Badal said the developmental work is done by the alliance government in the state and the leadership of Modi at the centre will be the biggest strength of the two parties in this general election.

Expressing concern about political discourse hitting a new low in Election 2019, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Badal says politics should not become an "India versus Pakistan" situation.

Expressing concern about political discourse hitting a new low in Election 2019, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Badal says politics should not become an "India versus Pakistan" situation. The chief of one of BJP's oldest allies hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a decisive and strong prime minister and said he is the only choice to steer the NDA after the Lok Sabha election results. We need a strong prime minister...after so many years we got a prime minister who is decisive. You can't let the country run on auto mode...we need a leader who can take the country on the path of faster growth, Badal told PTI in an interview. He also articulated his concerns about personal attacks against leaders and the quality of leaders in the ongoing Lok Sabha election, now in its last lap. "We politicians are not enemies...we are not like India-Pakistan...politics should not be like India versus Pakistan, which it is unfortunately becoming. Everyone has their own views but still we are all Indians and the interest of the country is important for us, Badal said. "There may be a platform where we may have to be together against a common enemy, Badal added. Asked if the NDA might need new partners after the results and demand a change of leadership, he said, "People are voting for him (Modi) and he is the right person to lead the country. I think we should stick with him post results. He is the only choice. Asked whether the NDA would otherwise be ready to sit in opposition, Badal nodded and said, Yeah, yeah. Badal is contesting Lok Sabha elections after 15 years as the SAD-BJP candidate from the Ferozepur Lok Sabha constituency, which votes on May 19 in the last round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Discussing the situation in Punjab, Badal said the biggest issue in the state is non-performance of the Congress government led by Captain Amarinder Singh which has failed on all fronts. The SAD is contesting 10 of Punjab's 13 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP three. Amarinder Singh is the most incompetent chief minister in the country. In Punjab, there is very strong sentiment against the chief minister. He doesn't travel through the state, the SAD chief said. Taking on the Gandhi family, he described them as a liability for the Congress in the state "in terms of sentiments. He also referred to Operation Bluestar, the Army operation to flush out militants in 1984 when Indira Gandhi was prime minister, and the anti-Sikh riots that followed her assassination. "The biggest sacrilege was done by Congress, they attacked Golden Temple. There can't be bigger sacrilege than this... it is also responsible for killing innocent Sikhs in 1984 in the national capital. When asked about AAP's prospects in Punjab, Badal said the people have discarded the party and it no longer has any relevance in the state. It is a typical Punjabi nature to try something new. Once they found it is of no benefit or of new use they discard it... the same is the case with AAP in Punjab, He said his priority will always be his state. I am contesting elections as party workers in Ferozepur demanded a candidate from the family. But my focus will be Punjab, said the son of party stalwart Parkash Singh Badal. Sukhbir Badal's wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal is contesting from the Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency. Confident of SAD-BJP alliance's better performance than 2014, when it won six of 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state, Sukhbir Badal said the developmental work is done by the alliance government in the state and the leadership of Modi at the centre will be the biggest strength of the two parties in this general election.

We are not enemies, politics should not be like India vs Pakistan: Sukhbir Badal

Amid election fever in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity in this holy city can be seen from streets to stands, with booksellers saying titles written on him are flying off the shelf ahead of the polls in his constituency.

Among the books doing well are "The Real Modi" and "Narendra Modi: Ek Sakaratmak Soch", according to booksellers in the temple town.

While the first one is an old paperback edition in Hindi, it is the second title that is catching the eyes of readers in the temple town.

Printed by publisher Apurva Shah of Ahmedabad, "Narendra Modi: Ek Sakaratmak Soch" is an unusual book as it is shaped like a cut-out put up during election rallies.

Amit Singh, the proprietor of the nearly 50-year-old Universal Book Company, located near the famous Godowlia Chowk in the city, pointed to a row of standing miniature Modi cut-outs stacked on a bookshelf next to a Shiv Khera title.

"Those cut-outs are not poll merchandises, but actually a book published by Navrang Printers and people are lapping it up for its quirky design. This book and 'The Real Modi' are selling like hot cakes, or should I say hot chai," Singh told PTI.

The book cover shows an image of Modi wearing a khadi kurta over a churidar pyjama and the content is printed bilingually, one side completely in English and the other side in Hindi.

"During Modi's roadshow here ahead of filing nomination for the 2019 polls, a life-size version of the same book was put up as part of the rally," Singh said.

The book, which is about 11 inches long, saw a third edition coming out in March, and the number of pages corresponds to Modi's age, he said.

It is divided into several segments and in the preface written by Shah, reference has been made to the surgical strike and the airstrike, besides Modi government's flagship schemes like 'Swachh Bharat' and 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao'.

From Modi's birthplace Vadnagar in Gujarat, the unique-looking book takes readers to his work regimen at 7, Race Course Road, the official residence of the prime minister.

Singh claimed, "The Real Modi" is a bestseller throughout the year, but lately its sales have gone up, given the election fever gripping the people here.

At Indica Books, publisher of a popular graphic novel-styled book "A Pilgrimage to Kashi", a dummy book cover of "From Mahatma Gandhi to Modi" dangles outside the shop. A staff said, "We are awaiting copies of his book, people want to read about Modi and his life."

Universal Book's Singh said other titles are also selling well.

"One such book is 'RSS 360 degrees' and during the election, there is a renewed interest among readers about this book," he said.

But, it's not just bookshelves that are filled with publications on Modi this election season, in streets and in corner shops, Modi banners and posters can be seen.

Several autorickshaws plying in Varanasi can be carrying a poster of Modi's poll campaign, bearing slogans like — 'Modi hai to mumkin hai' or 'Aatank ko muhtod jawab'.

"At DLW Maidan, some BJP workers pasted these Modi posters behind my auto," said an autorickshaw driver, who did not wish to be identified.

At busy Godowlia Chowk near Dashashwamedh Ghat, several shops selling paan, lassi or Misrambu — a local sweet beverage -- can also be seen sporting a 'Modi clock' — a specially designed wall clock that projects the image of Modi and his various schemes.

Varanasi, the ancient city known also by other names, Banaras and Kashi, will go to polls on May 19.

Amid election fever in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity in this holy city can be seen from streets to stands, with booksellers saying titles written on him are flying off the shelf ahead of the polls in his constituency.

Amid election fever in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity in this holy city can be seen from streets to stands, with booksellers saying titles written on him are flying off the shelf ahead of the polls in his constituency. Among the books doing well are "The Real Modi" and "Narendra Modi: Ek Sakaratmak Soch", according to booksellers in the temple town. While the first one is an old paperback edition in Hindi, it is the second title that is catching the eyes of readers in the temple town. Printed by publisher Apurva Shah of Ahmedabad, "Narendra Modi: Ek Sakaratmak Soch" is an unusual book as it is shaped like a cut-out put up during election rallies. Amit Singh, the proprietor of the nearly 50-year-old Universal Book Company, located near the famous Godowlia Chowk in the city, pointed to a row of standing miniature Modi cut-outs stacked on a bookshelf next to a Shiv Khera title. "Those cut-outs are not poll merchandises, but actually a book published by Navrang Printers and people are lapping it up for its quirky design. This book and 'The Real Modi' are selling like hot cakes, or should I say hot chai," Singh told PTI. The book cover shows an image of Modi wearing a khadi kurta over a churidar pyjama and the content is printed bilingually, one side completely in English and the other side in Hindi. "During Modi's roadshow here ahead of filing nomination for the 2019 polls, a life-size version of the same book was put up as part of the rally," Singh said. The book, which is about 11 inches long, saw a third edition coming out in March, and the number of pages corresponds to Modi's age, he said. It is divided into several segments and in the preface written by Shah, reference has been made to the surgical strike and the airstrike, besides Modi government's flagship schemes like 'Swachh Bharat' and 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao'. From Modi's birthplace Vadnagar in Gujarat, the unique-looking book takes readers to his work regimen at 7, Race Course Road, the official residence of the prime minister. Singh claimed, "The Real Modi" is a bestseller throughout the year, but lately its sales have gone up, given the election fever gripping the people here. At Indica Books, publisher of a popular graphic novel-styled book "A Pilgrimage to Kashi", a dummy book cover of "From Mahatma Gandhi to Modi" dangles outside the shop. A staff said, "We are awaiting copies of his book, people want to read about Modi and his life." Universal Book's Singh said other titles are also selling well. "One such book is 'RSS 360 degrees' and during the election, there is a renewed interest among readers about this book," he said. But, it's not just bookshelves that are filled with publications on Modi this election season, in streets and in corner shops, Modi banners and posters can be seen. Several autorickshaws plying in Varanasi can be carrying a poster of Modi's poll campaign, bearing slogans like — 'Modi hai to mumkin hai' or 'Aatank ko muhtod jawab'. "At DLW Maidan, some BJP workers pasted these Modi posters behind my auto," said an autorickshaw driver, who did not wish to be identified. At busy Godowlia Chowk near Dashashwamedh Ghat, several shops selling paan, lassi or Misrambu — a local sweet beverage -- can also be seen sporting a 'Modi clock' — a specially designed wall clock that projects the image of Modi and his various schemes. Varanasi, the ancient city known also by other names, Banaras and Kashi, will go to polls on May 19.

Books on PM Modi in demand in Varanasi: Booksellers

BJP leader Mukul Roy on Wednesday said that his party will obey the Election Commission's decision to cut short the campaign period in West Bengal by a day for the final phase of Lok Sabha elections.

"There is a political crisis in Bengal. EC takes special decisions when it feels the need. No violence was reported anywhere in the country during these Lok Sabha elections other than Bengal. EC took a decision that within 24 hours campaigning should be ended. We, the opposition will suffer the most. Yet, we will obey it," Roy said while addressing a press conference here.

Earlier, Deputy Election Commissioner Chandra Bhushan Kumar told media, "No election campaigning to be held in nine parliamentary constituencies of West Bengal, namely Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, Mathurapur, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, South and North Kolkata, from 10 pm tomorrow till the conclusion of polls."

Campaigning was originally scheduled to end at 5 pm on Friday for the nine constituencies that will go to polls on May 19.

Roy termed the violence at BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow 'criminal conspiracy' by West Bengal Chief Minister.

"Yesterday's incident was a criminal conspiracy by her (Mamata). The Chief Minister must answer. She said that there was no violence in Bengal. Did she forget Panchayat elections? Remember how people were stopped from casting their vote," he said.

Hitting back at Mamata's allegations that Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue was vandalised during Shah's roadshow, Roy said, "Vidyasagar does not only belong to Bengal as he is an international figure. They should not drag a figure like Vidyasagar into politics."

The BJP leader also questioned whether Banerjee has permission to hold rallies."Does the Chief Minister have permission for her rallies? he asked.

Snubbing the allegations that Centre is against former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar because the cop has evidence against him, Roy said, "If she could prove any complaints against me, I will quit politics forever," he said.

BJP leader Mukul Roy on Wednesday said that his party will obey the Election Commission's decision to cut short the campaign period in West Bengal by a day for the final phase of Lok Sabha elections.

BJP leader Mukul Roy on Wednesday said that his party will obey the Election Commission's decision to cut short the campaign period in West Bengal by a day for the final phase of Lok Sabha elections. "There is a political crisis in Bengal. EC takes special decisions when it feels the need. No violence was reported anywhere in the country during these Lok Sabha elections other than Bengal. EC took a decision that within 24 hours campaigning should be ended. We, the opposition will suffer the most. Yet, we will obey it," Roy said while addressing a press conference here. Earlier, Deputy Election Commissioner Chandra Bhushan Kumar told media, "No election campaigning to be held in nine parliamentary constituencies of West Bengal, namely Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, Mathurapur, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour, South and North Kolkata, from 10 pm tomorrow till the conclusion of polls." Campaigning was originally scheduled to end at 5 pm on Friday for the nine constituencies that will go to polls on May 19. Roy termed the violence at BJP president Amit Shah's roadshow 'criminal conspiracy' by West Bengal Chief Minister. "Yesterday's incident was a criminal conspiracy by her (Mamata). The Chief Minister must answer. She said that there was no violence in Bengal. Did she forget Panchayat elections? Remember how people were stopped from casting their vote," he said. Hitting back at Mamata's allegations that Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar's statue was vandalised during Shah's roadshow, Roy said, "Vidyasagar does not only belong to Bengal as he is an international figure. They should not drag a figure like Vidyasagar into politics." The BJP leader also questioned whether Banerjee has permission to hold rallies."Does the Chief Minister have permission for her rallies? he asked. Snubbing the allegations that Centre is against former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar because the cop has evidence against him, Roy said, "If she could prove any complaints against me, I will quit politics forever," he said.

Mukul Roy lashes out at Mamata, says BJP will abide by Election Commission order barring campaigning in West Bengal

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday said that his party does not have any problem if it did not get the Prime Minister's post while adding that its sole objective has always been to stop the NDA from forming the government at the Centre.

"We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in the favour of Congress, then the party will take the lead but our aim has always been that NDA government should not come. We will go with the unanimous decision," Azad told reporters here.

"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)," he said.

This comes after Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday dared the opposition to name its prime ministerial candidate if it was sure of victory in the Lok Sabha polls.

Also, the NDA allies, particularly the BJP have been very critical of the grand alliance, saying there is no consensus between the leaders of the opposition parties and that the chief's of all the political outfits in the mahagathbandhan want the prime ministerial post.

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday said that his party does not have any problem if it did not get the Prime Minister's post while adding that its sole objective has always been to stop the NDA from forming the government at the Centre.

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday said that his party does not have any problem if it did not get the Prime Minister's post while adding that its sole objective has always been to stop the NDA from forming the government at the Centre. "We have already made our stand clear. If a consensus is made in the favour of Congress, then the party will take the lead but our aim has always been that NDA government should not come. We will go with the unanimous decision," Azad told reporters here. "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)," he said. This comes after Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday dared the opposition to name its prime ministerial candidate if it was sure of victory in the Lok Sabha polls. Also, the NDA allies, particularly the BJP have been very critical of the grand alliance, saying there is no consensus between the leaders of the opposition parties and that the chief's of all the political outfits in the mahagathbandhan want the prime ministerial post.

Congress has no problem if it did not get PM's post: Ghulam Nabi Azad

Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and alleged that it was because of him and party general secretary in-charge for state Asha Kumari, that she was denied a ticket from Amritsar in the ongoing national elections.

"Captain Sahib (Amarinder Singh) and Asha Kumari think Madam Sidhu does not deserve an MP ticket. I was denied the ticket from Amritsar on the ground that I could not win," Navjot Kaur told ANI.

"Captain Sahib should respect women. You talk of women reservation, then please consider it. When educated leaders like me, who are ready to serve are there, it is decent to tell us that someone is better, don't deny us tickets by lying," she said.

Navjot Kaur wanted to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Chandigarh, but the leader was denied a ticket from the constituency. Congress fielded former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal from the seat.

Following this, there were reports that Navjot Kaur might contest from Amritsar, the coveted seat from where Amarinder Singh had won against BJP's Arun Jaitley in the 2014 general elections. However, the party fielded sitting lawmaker Gurjit Singh Aujla from there.

When questioned about Navjot Singh Sidhu's absence from Congress' campaign in Punjab, she said, "Captain Sahib has said that we are winning all 13 Lok Sabha seats. Our aim is to oust Modi. When Captain Sahib is saying that we are winning all seats then Sidhu's campaign does not matter here. He is campaigning at all India level. There is no ego there. Captain sa'ab has said he would win all 13 seats by himself."

The differences between Sidhu and Amarinder came to the fore when the Chief Minister had asked him not to go to Pakistan for Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony. The Chief Minister also got the invitation but preferred not to go there citing terror attacks in Punjab and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces.

Relations grew bitter when the Punjab chief minister had issued a mild rebuke to Sidhu last year over his hug to Pakistan army chief General Bajwa which snowballed into a huge political controversy. Following which, Sidhu in retaliation took a dig at Amarinder saying that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is his captain and that he went to Pakistan after taking his Rahul in Confidence.

Punjab, where 13 parliamentary seats are at stake will go to polls on May 19.

Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and alleged that it was because of him and party general secretary in-charge for state Asha Kumari, that she was denied a ticket from Amritsar in the ongoing national elections.

Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and alleged that it was because of him and party general secretary in-charge for state Asha Kumari, that she was denied a ticket from Amritsar in the ongoing national elections. "Captain Sahib (Amarinder Singh) and Asha Kumari think Madam Sidhu does not deserve an MP ticket. I was denied the ticket from Amritsar on the ground that I could not win," Navjot Kaur told ANI. "Captain Sahib should respect women. You talk of women reservation, then please consider it. When educated leaders like me, who are ready to serve are there, it is decent to tell us that someone is better, don't deny us tickets by lying," she said. Navjot Kaur wanted to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Chandigarh, but the leader was denied a ticket from the constituency. Congress fielded former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal from the seat. Following this, there were reports that Navjot Kaur might contest from Amritsar, the coveted seat from where Amarinder Singh had won against BJP's Arun Jaitley in the 2014 general elections. However, the party fielded sitting lawmaker Gurjit Singh Aujla from there. When questioned about Navjot Singh Sidhu's absence from Congress' campaign in Punjab, she said, "Captain Sahib has said that we are winning all 13 Lok Sabha seats. Our aim is to oust Modi. When Captain Sahib is saying that we are winning all seats then Sidhu's campaign does not matter here. He is campaigning at all India level. There is no ego there. Captain sa'ab has said he would win all 13 seats by himself." The differences between Sidhu and Amarinder came to the fore when the Chief Minister had asked him not to go to Pakistan for Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony. The Chief Minister also got the invitation but preferred not to go there citing terror attacks in Punjab and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces. Relations grew bitter when the Punjab chief minister had issued a mild rebuke to Sidhu last year over his hug to Pakistan army chief General Bajwa which snowballed into a huge political controversy. Following which, Sidhu in retaliation took a dig at Amarinder saying that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is his captain and that he went to Pakistan after taking his Rahul in Confidence. Punjab, where 13 parliamentary seats are at stake will go to polls on May 19.

Punjab CM, Asha Kumari denied me ticket from Amritsar: Navjot Kaur

Accusing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of fanning violence in the state, Shiv Sena on Thursday said that people will bring her down from power the way CPI(M) was removed from office.

"She did not permit senior leaders to step into the state. What kind of oppressive behaviour is this? She has turned West Bengal into a battleground by fanning violence," Saamna, a mouthpiece of Shiv Sena, said in an editorial.

"There has never been a time when she has not opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath. Earlier, Communist Party of India (Marxist) fanned violence in the state and people threw them out of the power. Now it is Mamata's turn," it said.

Clashes broke out on May 14 in Kolkata during BJP president Shah's roadshow and a bust of the 19th-century social reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was vandalised in a college named after him.

Commenting on Banerjee's remark if Shah is a god that no one can protest against him, Saamna said, "She, too, is not Goddess Durga herself. Such violence is dangerous for the country."

On May 14, Banerjee had said, "What does Amit Shah think of himself? Is he above everything? Is he God that no one can protest against him?"

Voting for nine seats in West Bengal will be held in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 19.

Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Accusing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of fanning violence in the state, Shiv Sena on Thursday said that people will bring her down from power the way CPI(M) was removed from office.

Accusing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of fanning violence in the state, Shiv Sena on Thursday said that people will bring her down from power the way CPI(M) was removed from office. "She did not permit senior leaders to step into the state. What kind of oppressive behaviour is this? She has turned West Bengal into a battleground by fanning violence," Saamna, a mouthpiece of Shiv Sena, said in an editorial. "There has never been a time when she has not opposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath. Earlier, Communist Party of India (Marxist) fanned violence in the state and people threw them out of the power. Now it is Mamata's turn," it said. Clashes broke out on May 14 in Kolkata during BJP president Shah's roadshow and a bust of the 19th-century social reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was vandalised in a college named after him. Commenting on Banerjee's remark if Shah is a god that no one can protest against him, Saamna said, "She, too, is not Goddess Durga herself. Such violence is dangerous for the country." On May 14, Banerjee had said, "What does Amit Shah think of himself? Is he above everything? Is he God that no one can protest against him?" Voting for nine seats in West Bengal will be held in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

People will bring down Mamata Banerjee from power for 'fanning violence': Shiv Sena

BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday during a press conference said that TMC is fully responsible for the violence in West Bengal during the polls.&nbsp;

Shah said that the Trinamool Congress has alleged that the BJP was responsible for poll violence.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/i-am-not-an-outsider-have-come-here-to-campaign-for-bjp-amit-shah-218863">I am not an outsider; have come here to campaign for BJP: Amit Shah</a>

"But why does poll violence occur only in Bengal. TMC contests polls on 42 seats, but BJP contests poll all across the nation. We are pitted against Congress and many other parties but why do reports of violence only pour in from West Bengal," Shah said. &nbsp;

"Violence didn't take place in 6 phases of elections anywhere but Bengal which proves that TMC is responsible for it," Shah added.

BJP national president Amit Shah said, "Our popularity in Kolkata and Bengal has given Mamata didi the jitters that is why she has resorted to extreme measures."&nbsp;

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Amit Shah said that when his party has lost 60 cadres in the political violence in the state, an attack on him was not unexpected. He said, "If it weren't for the team of CRPF deployed in my security, I might not have come back alive from the violence."

"I have toured West Bengal and the entire country. I am convinced that BJP will win more than 300 seats. Mamata Banerjee should know that we are not scared of FIR filed against me," he added.

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Amit Shah's remarks came following violence during his roadshow in Kolkata and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's repeated allegations about Shah being an "outsider" who comes to the state to "create division" among the people.

(With inputs from agencies)

BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday during a press conference said that TMC is fully responsible for the violence in West Bengal during the polls. Shah said that the Trinamool Congress has alleged that the BJP was responsible for poll violence.

BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday during a press conference said that TMC is fully responsible for the violence in West Bengal during the polls. Shah said that the Trinamool Congress has alleged that the BJP was responsible for poll violence. Also read- I am not an outsider; have come here to campaign for BJP: Amit Shah "But why does poll violence occur only in Bengal. TMC contests polls on 42 seats, but BJP contests poll all across the nation. We are pitted against Congress and many other parties but why do reports of violence only pour in from West Bengal," Shah said. "Violence didn't take place in 6 phases of elections anywhere but Bengal which proves that TMC is responsible for it," Shah added. BJP national president Amit Shah said, "Our popularity in Kolkata and Bengal has given Mamata didi the jitters that is why she has resorted to extreme measures." × Amit Shah said that when his party has lost 60 cadres in the political violence in the state, an attack on him was not unexpected. He said, "If it weren't for the team of CRPF deployed in my security, I might not have come back alive from the violence." "I have toured West Bengal and the entire country. I am convinced that BJP will win more than 300 seats. Mamata Banerjee should know that we are not scared of FIR filed against me," he added. × Amit Shah's remarks came following violence during his roadshow in Kolkata and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's repeated allegations about Shah being an "outsider" who comes to the state to "create division" among the people. (With inputs from agencies)

If not for CRPF, I wouldn't have come back alive, says Amit Shah on Kolkata violence

Election Commission will hold a meeting with West Bengal observers on poll violence in the state at 11.30 am today via video conferencing.

This comes a day after clashes broke at the mega roadshow of BJP president Amit Shah in Kolkata resulting in utter chaos after sticks were hurled at his convoy and police resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.

Clashes reportedly broke out on Tuesday after some miscreants started throwing sticks at the convoy in which Shah was travelling in.

The incident took place on College Street when allegedly some TMC supporters began sloganeering and the furious BJP supporters responded by pelting stones and sticks at the University gates, resulting in chaos and mayhem.

Since the Lok Sabha polls began on April 10, BJP and TMC have been at loggerhead in West Bengal.

Voting for nine seats in the state will be held in the seventh and final phase of the general election on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission will hold a meeting with West Bengal observers on poll violence in the state at 11.30 am today via video conferencing. This comes a day after clashes broke at the mega roadshow of BJP president Amit Shah in Kolkata resulting in utter chaos after sticks were hurled at his convoy and police resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.

Election Commission will hold a meeting with West Bengal observers on poll violence in the state at 11.30 am today via video conferencing. This comes a day after clashes broke at the mega roadshow of BJP president Amit Shah in Kolkata resulting in utter chaos after sticks were hurled at his convoy and police resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd. Clashes reportedly broke out on Tuesday after some miscreants started throwing sticks at the convoy in which Shah was travelling in. The incident took place on College Street when allegedly some TMC supporters began sloganeering and the furious BJP supporters responded by pelting stones and sticks at the University gates, resulting in chaos and mayhem. Since the Lok Sabha polls began on April 10, BJP and TMC have been at loggerhead in West Bengal. Voting for nine seats in the state will be held in the seventh and final phase of the general election on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Election Commission to hold meeting with West Bengal observers on poll violence today

All the 13 seats of Punjab are going to polls on May 19 in the seventh and the last phase of Lok Sabha polls. Gurdaspur is again going to be among the most-watched constituencies in the state due to its star-studded clash.

The BJP has fielded actor Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur which had been represented by film actor-turned-politician Vinod Khanna for four times in 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

However, Deol's nomination from the seat was seen as a setback to Khanna's wife Kavita Khanna, who was hopeful of getting a BJP ticket from this seat.

Sunny Deol, who has won national film awards for 'Ghayal' and 'Damini', is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat.

Currently, the constituency is represented by Jakhar, who won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year.

Khanna died of bladder cancer at a hospital in Mumbai on April 27, 2017. He was popularly known as "Sardar of Bridges" for connecting remote villages in his constituency.

Jakhar had defeated BJP candidate Swaran Salaria by a whopping margin of 1,93,219.

All the 13 seats of Punjab are going to polls on May 19 in the seventh and the last phase of Lok Sabha polls. Gurdaspur is again going to be among the most-watched constituencies in the state due to its star-studded clash.

All the 13 seats of Punjab are going to polls on May 19 in the seventh and the last phase of Lok Sabha polls. Gurdaspur is again going to be among the most-watched constituencies in the state due to its star-studded clash. The BJP has fielded actor Sunny Deol, a Jat Sikh, from Gurdaspur which had been represented by film actor-turned-politician Vinod Khanna for four times in 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014. However, Deol's nomination from the seat was seen as a setback to Khanna's wife Kavita Khanna, who was hopeful of getting a BJP ticket from this seat. Sunny Deol, who has won national film awards for 'Ghayal' and 'Damini', is pitted against sitting MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, AAP's Peter Masih and PDA's Lal Chand in the electoral fight from Gurdaspur seat. Currently, the constituency is represented by Jakhar, who won the seat in the 2017 bypoll, which was necessitated after the death of Vinod Khanna in April that year. Khanna died of bladder cancer at a hospital in Mumbai on April 27, 2017. He was popularly known as "Sardar of Bridges" for connecting remote villages in his constituency. Jakhar had defeated BJP candidate Swaran Salaria by a whopping margin of 1,93,219.

Gurdaspur: BJP's Sunny Deol takes on Congress’ Sunil Jakhar

Lashing out at the opposition parties, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-swayed-by-pm-modi-alleges-national-congress-party-216713">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power.

Addressing a rally here, Modi also claimed that it was just the "BJP-led NDA dispensation that could lead the nation towards the light".

"Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Development for all) is our mantra and we strive to ensure security and respect for all. The Mahamilawatis (opposition), on the other hand, think some castes are beholden to them," he said.

Iterating that it was his government that took on the terrorists and the trouble-mongers on both sides of the India-Pakistan border, Modi said, "The mahamilawatis, if elected to power, will give free licenses to stone-pelters, naxals and the tukde-tukde gang."

The opposition leaders will get a befitting reply from people after May 23, when the general election results are declared, he stated.

"Going by the response of people in the six phases of elections, it is clear&nbsp;that the opposition parties will face a humiliating defeat. Their anger has touched the seventh heaven now. They are trying to draw satisfaction from hurling abuses," he asserted.

The PM also insisted that he has always lived and worked for the country, without taking any break.

"Not for once have I lived for myself or my relatives during my tenure as the Gujarat chief minister or the prime minister. People of this country are my family," he added.

Lashing out at the opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power.

Lashing out at the opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday the Congress and the RJD will push 21st century India into darkness if voted to power. Addressing a rally here, Modi also claimed that it was just the "BJP-led NDA dispensation that could lead the nation towards the light". "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Development for all) is our mantra and we strive to ensure security and respect for all. The Mahamilawatis (opposition), on the other hand, think some castes are beholden to them," he said. Iterating that it was his government that took on the terrorists and the trouble-mongers on both sides of the India-Pakistan border, Modi said, "The mahamilawatis, if elected to power, will give free licenses to stone-pelters, naxals and the tukde-tukde gang." The opposition leaders will get a befitting reply from people after May 23, when the general election results are declared, he stated. "Going by the response of people in the six phases of elections, it is clear that the opposition parties will face a humiliating defeat. Their anger has touched the seventh heaven now. They are trying to draw satisfaction from hurling abuses," he asserted. The PM also insisted that he has always lived and worked for the country, without taking any break. "Not for once have I lived for myself or my relatives during my tenure as the Gujarat chief minister or the prime minister. People of this country are my family," he added.

Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal will push 21st century India into darkness: PM Modi in Bihar