<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-confused-by-who-will-be-cm-party-will-fuse-modi-in-rajasthan-179312">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> alleged Sunday that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-dragging-my-parents-into-politics-at-rahuls-behest-pm-modi-179367">Congress threatened Supreme Court</a> judges with impeachment when they tried to hear the Ayodhya dispute cases earlier this year.

Without naming anyone, Modi claimed that Congress party's Rajya Sabha members, who are also lawyers, had tried to scare away the apex court judges to ensure the hearing in the cases is delayed until after the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

In an unprecedented move, seven opposition parties led by the Congress had moved a notice for the impeachment of then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra in April this year, accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu rejected the notice, saying the case against the then CJI was based on "suspicion and conjectures".

At the political rally in Rajasthan's Alwar district, Modi said the Congress has no faith in democracy and judiciary. "It does not hold dialogue and stall proceedings in Parliament, but the new game they are playing now is dangerous and this must be debated for a bright future of the country."

"If a Supreme Court judge does not prepare the timetable (for hearing cases) as per their (Congress's) political intentions and wants to hear all to deliver justice on a serious and sensitive issue, such as Ayodhya, then the party's lawyers, who are Rajya Sabha members, start the game of scaring the judges in the name of impeachment," Modi said.

He urged intellectuals to analyse this "dangerous game" of the Congress in the interest of the country.

"They are working to scare judiciary on the ground of their numbers in Rajya Sabha. But we will not let this 'kaala kaarnama' happen in the temple of democracy," he said.

The prime minister said the opposition party has "no courage" to talk about development and hence "they ask about the caste of Modi."

"Will you vote on the basis of the caste of Modi? Will the future of Rajasthan be decided on basis of birthplace of Modi," he asked the crowd gathered at his rally.

Modi's remarks were a reaction to former Union minister CP Joshi's statement when he had questioned the caste of Modi and others during a speech in Rajsamand district's Nathdwara.

Joshi is the Congress candidate from Nathdwara assembly constituency.

"They are deep neck involved in casteism. Casteism and feeling of hate against poor, deprived, underprivileged is in their veins and such statements reflect the basic behaviour and conduct of the Congress. It does not matter who spoke that (Joshi's renmarks) because everyone knows about the 'naamdaar' who make them speak," he said, apparently referring to the Gandhi family.

Modi also targeted the Congress over issues and discrimination faced by Dalits, saying the party "forgot" to give the Bharat Ratna to B R Ambedkar.

Ambedkar was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990, 34 years after his death.

"Congress has only divided the country. For them, Dalits are a vote bank while our values and traditions are different," Modi claimed, trying to contrast his party's attitude to the community, of whose members have been assaulted and beaten by right-wing activists for allegedly indulging in cow trade, with that of the Congress.

In Rajasthan, Modi praised the BJP's Vasundhara Raje government, saying it has done lot of work.

He also attacked Congress over a recent video in which a Congress candidate is seen stopping a party supporter shouting "Bharat Mata ki jai" and then the supporter starts shouting: "Sonia Gandhi ki jai".

"For us, the country is bigger than the party but Sonia Gandhi is bigger than Bharat Mata for them," he said.

Modi recalled BJP leaders like former vice president the late Bhairo Singh Shkhawat and said he had started election campaign during the 2013 assembly elections in Rajasthan from Alwar.

Chief minister Raje and the party's candidates on all 11 constituencies of Alwar district were present at the rally.

In Lok Sabha bypolls earlier this year, the BJP had faced defeat in Alwar.

In the 2013 assembly election, the BJP won nine out of the 11 seats in Alwar but one of its sitting MLAs, Dharmpal Chaudhary, died in April this year; the party has given ticket to his son Manjit Chaudhary from Mundawar seat.

Located in eastern part of the desert state, Alwar shares border with Haryana and forms a part of Mewat region having a sizable population of Mev (Muslim) community people.

It also touches Jaipur, Bharatpur and Dausa districts.

Alwar's Ramgarh, a constituency represented by Gyan Dev Ahuja, who has been dropped by the BJP this time, was in bad light following the mob lynching of Akbar Khan on suspicion of cow smuggling in July this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged Sunday that the Congress threatened Supreme Court judges with impeachment when they tried to hear the Ayodhya dispute cases earlier this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged Sunday that the Congress threatened Supreme Court judges with impeachment when they tried to hear the Ayodhya dispute cases earlier this year. Without naming anyone, Modi claimed that Congress party's Rajya Sabha members, who are also lawyers, had tried to scare away the apex court judges to ensure the hearing in the cases is delayed until after the 2019 Lok Sabha election. In an unprecedented move, seven opposition parties led by the Congress had moved a notice for the impeachment of then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra in April this year, accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu rejected the notice, saying the case against the then CJI was based on "suspicion and conjectures". At the political rally in Rajasthan's Alwar district, Modi said the Congress has no faith in democracy and judiciary. "It does not hold dialogue and stall proceedings in Parliament, but the new game they are playing now is dangerous and this must be debated for a bright future of the country." "If a Supreme Court judge does not prepare the timetable (for hearing cases) as per their (Congress's) political intentions and wants to hear all to deliver justice on a serious and sensitive issue, such as Ayodhya, then the party's lawyers, who are Rajya Sabha members, start the game of scaring the judges in the name of impeachment," Modi said. He urged intellectuals to analyse this "dangerous game" of the Congress in the interest of the country. "They are working to scare judiciary on the ground of their numbers in Rajya Sabha. But we will not let this 'kaala kaarnama' happen in the temple of democracy," he said. The prime minister said the opposition party has "no courage" to talk about development and hence "they ask about the caste of Modi." "Will you vote on the basis of the caste of Modi? Will the future of Rajasthan be decided on basis of birthplace of Modi," he asked the crowd gathered at his rally. Modi's remarks were a reaction to former Union minister CP Joshi's statement when he had questioned the caste of Modi and others during a speech in Rajsamand district's Nathdwara. Joshi is the Congress candidate from Nathdwara assembly constituency. "They are deep neck involved in casteism. Casteism and feeling of hate against poor, deprived, underprivileged is in their veins and such statements reflect the basic behaviour and conduct of the Congress. It does not matter who spoke that (Joshi's renmarks) because everyone knows about the 'naamdaar' who make them speak," he said, apparently referring to the Gandhi family. Modi also targeted the Congress over issues and discrimination faced by Dalits, saying the party "forgot" to give the Bharat Ratna to B R Ambedkar. Ambedkar was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990, 34 years after his death. "Congress has only divided the country. For them, Dalits are a vote bank while our values and traditions are different," Modi claimed, trying to contrast his party's attitude to the community, of whose members have been assaulted and beaten by right-wing activists for allegedly indulging in cow trade, with that of the Congress. In Rajasthan, Modi praised the BJP's Vasundhara Raje government, saying it has done lot of work. He also attacked Congress over a recent video in which a Congress candidate is seen stopping a party supporter shouting "Bharat Mata ki jai" and then the supporter starts shouting: "Sonia Gandhi ki jai". "For us, the country is bigger than the party but Sonia Gandhi is bigger than Bharat Mata for them," he said. Modi recalled BJP leaders like former vice president the late Bhairo Singh Shkhawat and said he had started election campaign during the 2013 assembly elections in Rajasthan from Alwar. Chief minister Raje and the party's candidates on all 11 constituencies of Alwar district were present at the rally. In Lok Sabha bypolls earlier this year, the BJP had faced defeat in Alwar. In the 2013 assembly election, the BJP won nine out of the 11 seats in Alwar but one of its sitting MLAs, Dharmpal Chaudhary, died in April this year; the party has given ticket to his son Manjit Chaudhary from Mundawar seat. Located in eastern part of the desert state, Alwar shares border with Haryana and forms a part of Mewat region having a sizable population of Mev (Muslim) community people. It also touches Jaipur, Bharatpur and Dausa districts. Alwar's Ramgarh, a constituency represented by Gyan Dev Ahuja, who has been dropped by the BJP this time, was in bad light following the mob lynching of Akbar Khan on suspicion of cow smuggling in July this year.

Congress threatened SC judges, who tried to hear Ayodhya cases, with impeachment: PM Modi

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is eyeing "friends" in the Congress, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram People`s Movement (ZPM) for an alliance, if it gets respectable number of seats in the upcoming assembly elections in Mizoram.

Assam Finance Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party`s strategist in the North East Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday told ANI: "If we get a respectable number of seats then we have friends in Congress, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram People`s Movement (ZPM). But first, our aim is to get the respectable number of seats in the upcoming elections."

Mizoram goes to polls on November 28 and counting will be on December 11.

Underling that BJP will be a major factor in forming the government in the state, the leader asserted: "Once the result is announced, any political formation to form a government, they will need BJP."

The leader, who played a crucial role in the Assam Assembly elections in 2016 and Manipur Assembly polls in 2017 in installing the BJP governments there and ousting the Congress regimes, explained that communication and education will be BJP`s top agenda in Mizoram.

He said, "I believe that the first thing which is imperative for Mizoram to develop is the communication network. The railways have not been expanded in the region. If one looks at the national highways, all of them are under construction and state highways do not even exist. It is a sorry state of affairs in the region."

Responding to the allegation that the BJP is practising communal politics, he said: "There is no evidence that BJP is playing religious politics. We vowed for the Indian civilisation, we talk for Indian civilisation."

Sarma who was with the Congress for many years before shifting loyalty to the BJP before the Assam assembly polls, and helped the BJP make inroads in the North East, hit out at the Congress saying, "As far as Congress president Rahul Gandhi is concerned, today he is promoting leaders like Shashi Tharoor, Kamal Nath, CP Joshi. These leaders are blatantly doing religious politics. Whenever Shashi Tharoor attends public events, he abuses the Hindu religion. Kamal Nath has joined the same rhetoric. CP Joshi too had stated that people belonging to OBC and SC/ST do not know anything about Hinduism. These leaders have the support of Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi."&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is eyeing "friends" in the Congress, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram People`s Movement (ZPM) for an alliance, if it gets respectable number of seats in the upcoming assembly elections in Mizoram.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is eyeing "friends" in the Congress, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram People`s Movement (ZPM) for an alliance, if it gets respectable number of seats in the upcoming assembly elections in Mizoram. Assam Finance Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party`s strategist in the North East Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday told ANI: "If we get a respectable number of seats then we have friends in Congress, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram People`s Movement (ZPM). But first, our aim is to get the respectable number of seats in the upcoming elections." Mizoram goes to polls on November 28 and counting will be on December 11. Underling that BJP will be a major factor in forming the government in the state, the leader asserted: "Once the result is announced, any political formation to form a government, they will need BJP." The leader, who played a crucial role in the Assam Assembly elections in 2016 and Manipur Assembly polls in 2017 in installing the BJP governments there and ousting the Congress regimes, explained that communication and education will be BJP`s top agenda in Mizoram. He said, "I believe that the first thing which is imperative for Mizoram to develop is the communication network. The railways have not been expanded in the region. If one looks at the national highways, all of them are under construction and state highways do not even exist. It is a sorry state of affairs in the region." Responding to the allegation that the BJP is practising communal politics, he said: "There is no evidence that BJP is playing religious politics. We vowed for the Indian civilisation, we talk for Indian civilisation." Sarma who was with the Congress for many years before shifting loyalty to the BJP before the Assam assembly polls, and helped the BJP make inroads in the North East, hit out at the Congress saying, "As far as Congress president Rahul Gandhi is concerned, today he is promoting leaders like Shashi Tharoor, Kamal Nath, CP Joshi. These leaders are blatantly doing religious politics. Whenever Shashi Tharoor attends public events, he abuses the Hindu religion. Kamal Nath has joined the same rhetoric. CP Joshi too had stated that people belonging to OBC and SC/ST do not know anything about Hinduism. These leaders have the support of Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi."

Will reach out to friends in Congress, MNF for alliance: Himanta Biswa Sarma on Mizoram polls

Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma Saturday said that the party had worked together with the ruling Congress, the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) in Mizoram and there was nothing to hide in those alliances.

BJP and traditional rival Congress had formed a coalition in the Chakma Autonomous District Council in the state and had formed its executive committee.

The party is working with MNF as constituents of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), which is led by it and he is the convener, and also in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), Sarma told newsmen here.

About ZPM, he said BJP had forged electoral alliance with the party earlier too in the Aizawl Municipal Corporation.

"There was nothing to hide in the alliances with those parties and everything was transparent," he said adding that if there is any alliance in the post-assembly poll scenario that too would be transparent.

The propaganda by certain parties calling BJP an anti-Christian party is "baseless and lies" as is seen in the neighbouring states of Nagaland and Meghalaya, he added.

The election to the 20-member CADC on April 20 had thrown up a fractured mandate with the MNF getting eight seats, the Congress six and the BJP five. The polling for one seat was stayed by the Gauhati High Court.

The coalition formed by BJP and Congress had faced a setback after some Congress members withdrew support to the BJP-led CADC.

Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma Saturday said that the party had worked together with the ruling Congress, the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) in Mizoram and there was nothing to hide in those alliances.

Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma Saturday said that the party had worked together with the ruling Congress, the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) in Mizoram and there was nothing to hide in those alliances. BJP and traditional rival Congress had formed a coalition in the Chakma Autonomous District Council in the state and had formed its executive committee. The party is working with MNF as constituents of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), which is led by it and he is the convener, and also in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), Sarma told newsmen here. About ZPM, he said BJP had forged electoral alliance with the party earlier too in the Aizawl Municipal Corporation. "There was nothing to hide in the alliances with those parties and everything was transparent," he said adding that if there is any alliance in the post-assembly poll scenario that too would be transparent. The propaganda by certain parties calling BJP an anti-Christian party is "baseless and lies" as is seen in the neighbouring states of Nagaland and Meghalaya, he added. The election to the 20-member CADC on April 20 had thrown up a fractured mandate with the MNF getting eight seats, the Congress six and the BJP five. The polling for one seat was stayed by the Gauhati High Court. The coalition formed by BJP and Congress had faced a setback after some Congress members withdrew support to the BJP-led CADC.

BJP had worked with Congress, MNF, ZPM in the past in Mizoram: Himanta Biswa Sarma

The Election Commission has set up over 11,000 new polling booths in Madhya Pradesh, the maximum among the five states having assembly polls, as part of its efforts to ensure a high voter turnout during the elections slated next week, the state's chief electoral officer said on Thursday.

CEO V L Kantha Rao also said the state has witnessed more than double the seizure of suspect cash, drugs and other illegal inducements used to lure voters, as compared to the last polls of 2013.

"A total of 11,421 new polling booths have been opened in Madhya Pradesh this time. This is about 21 per cent more than the last time and with these new ones we will have around 65,000 booths in all.

"In 2013, the total polling booths in the state were about 53,000," Rao said in an interview.

"I can assure you that with this increase in the number of polling booths, no voter in Madhya Pradesh will have to travel more than 2 kms to vote," Rao said.

The number of polling booths has increased by 14 per cent in Rajasthan, by 11 per cent in Telangana and 3 per cent in Mizoram -- the other three states were voting will take place in coming days. In Chhattisgarh, where voting took place in two phases on November 12 and November 20, the number of polling booth rose by 10 per cent this time.

Counting of votes for all five state assemblies would take place on December 11.

While Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram will vote on November 28, Rajasthan and Telangana are scheduled for polling on December 7.

Taking about the poll panel's action against illegal inducements being used to lure voters in Madhya Pradesh, Rao said suspect cash, drugs and other items worth over Rs 63.45 crore have been seized in the state till now as compared to more than Rs 27.61 crore of such seizures during the entire poll period in 2013.

Madhya Pradesh will vote for its 230-member assembly on November 28 in a single phase and the seizure figures may rise further in the next few days.

These seizures are from the period beginning October 6, when the Election Commission (EC) in Delhi announced the polls for the five states.

The seizures made by the EC-appointed surveillance teams this time include over Rs 28.25 crore suspect cash, more than Rs 8.89 crore worth of gold and jewellery, over 5.22 lakh litres of liquor worth Rs 12.39 crore and over 63-kgs of drugs worth Rs 5.49 crore, the CEO said.

As many as 1,847 FIRs have been registered for various poll-related offences in the state till now, out of which 1,288 criminal complaints are regarding defacement of property, he added.

The Election Commission has set up over 11,000 new polling booths in Madhya Pradesh, the maximum among the five states having assembly polls, as part of its efforts to ensure a high voter turnout during the elections slated next week, the state's chief electoral officer said on Thursday.

The Election Commission has set up over 11,000 new polling booths in Madhya Pradesh, the maximum among the five states having assembly polls, as part of its efforts to ensure a high voter turnout during the elections slated next week, the state's chief electoral officer said on Thursday. CEO V L Kantha Rao also said the state has witnessed more than double the seizure of suspect cash, drugs and other illegal inducements used to lure voters, as compared to the last polls of 2013. "A total of 11,421 new polling booths have been opened in Madhya Pradesh this time. This is about 21 per cent more than the last time and with these new ones we will have around 65,000 booths in all. "In 2013, the total polling booths in the state were about 53,000," Rao said in an interview. "I can assure you that with this increase in the number of polling booths, no voter in Madhya Pradesh will have to travel more than 2 kms to vote," Rao said. The number of polling booths has increased by 14 per cent in Rajasthan, by 11 per cent in Telangana and 3 per cent in Mizoram -- the other three states were voting will take place in coming days. In Chhattisgarh, where voting took place in two phases on November 12 and November 20, the number of polling booth rose by 10 per cent this time. Counting of votes for all five state assemblies would take place on December 11. While Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram will vote on November 28, Rajasthan and Telangana are scheduled for polling on December 7. Taking about the poll panel's action against illegal inducements being used to lure voters in Madhya Pradesh, Rao said suspect cash, drugs and other items worth over Rs 63.45 crore have been seized in the state till now as compared to more than Rs 27.61 crore of such seizures during the entire poll period in 2013. Madhya Pradesh will vote for its 230-member assembly on November 28 in a single phase and the seizure figures may rise further in the next few days. These seizures are from the period beginning October 6, when the Election Commission (EC) in Delhi announced the polls for the five states. The seizures made by the EC-appointed surveillance teams this time include over Rs 28.25 crore suspect cash, more than Rs 8.89 crore worth of gold and jewellery, over 5.22 lakh litres of liquor worth Rs 12.39 crore and over 63-kgs of drugs worth Rs 5.49 crore, the CEO said. As many as 1,847 FIRs have been registered for various poll-related offences in the state till now, out of which 1,288 criminal complaints are regarding defacement of property, he added.

MP to have over 11,000 fresh polling booths; max among poll-bound states

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said the Ram temple issue is raked up before every election and wondered for how long will people be 'fooled' with the 'mandir wahi banayenge' slogan.

Thackeray said that during his visit to Ayodhya on November 25, he would "seek an answer" as to how many more elections will people be fooled with the slogan.

The Sena chief collected soil from Shivneri fort in Junnar tehsil of Pune district, where Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born.&nbsp; 
He told reporters that he will carry the soil to Ayodhya during his visit on Sunday.

Thackeray had announced during the Shiv Sena's Dussehra rally in Mumbai that he will visit Ayodhya on 25 November and "question" Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of the construction of the Ram temple.

"The soil where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born carries with its sentiments of all Hindus and collecting these sentiments will speed up the process of the construction of Ram temple," he said.

"The issue of Ram temple is raked up before every election. I will seek an answer as to for how many more elections will the people be fooled with the slogan Mandir wahi banayenge," he said.

The slogan is used by Hindutva groups, who aim to build a Ram temple on the site of the demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Asked if permissions were granted for his public rally in Ayodhya, Thackeray said his original programme includes visit to the site to seek Lord Ram's blessings, as announced in the rally.

"Seers there had expressed their desire that I should visit the site, so I will take their blessings and also take part in the evening aarti on the banks of the Sarayu river," he said.

In a bid to intensify his party's campaign for the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray has given a new slogan-- 'Pehle mandir, fir sarkaar' (first the temple, then the government).

A Sena functionary said a special train has been booked to ferry Shiv Sena members to Ayodhya for Thackeray's visit.

Women party workers and Yuva Sena cadres have been asked not to come to Ayodhya for want of accommodation, he said.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said the Ram temple issue is raked up before every election and wondered for how long will people be 'fooled' with the 'mandir wahi banayenge' slogan.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday said the Ram temple issue is raked up before every election and wondered for how long will people be 'fooled' with the 'mandir wahi banayenge' slogan. Thackeray said that during his visit to Ayodhya on November 25, he would "seek an answer" as to how many more elections will people be fooled with the slogan. The Sena chief collected soil from Shivneri fort in Junnar tehsil of Pune district, where Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born. He told reporters that he will carry the soil to Ayodhya during his visit on Sunday. Thackeray had announced during the Shiv Sena's Dussehra rally in Mumbai that he will visit Ayodhya on 25 November and "question" Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of the construction of the Ram temple. "The soil where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born carries with its sentiments of all Hindus and collecting these sentiments will speed up the process of the construction of Ram temple," he said. "The issue of Ram temple is raked up before every election. I will seek an answer as to for how many more elections will the people be fooled with the slogan Mandir wahi banayenge," he said. The slogan is used by Hindutva groups, who aim to build a Ram temple on the site of the demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. Asked if permissions were granted for his public rally in Ayodhya, Thackeray said his original programme includes visit to the site to seek Lord Ram's blessings, as announced in the rally. "Seers there had expressed their desire that I should visit the site, so I will take their blessings and also take part in the evening aarti on the banks of the Sarayu river," he said. In a bid to intensify his party's campaign for the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray has given a new slogan-- 'Pehle mandir, fir sarkaar' (first the temple, then the government). A Sena functionary said a special train has been booked to ferry Shiv Sena members to Ayodhya for Thackeray's visit. Women party workers and Yuva Sena cadres have been asked not to come to Ayodhya for want of accommodation, he said.

Ram temple issue raked up before every election: Thackeray

The Election Commission has decided to hold polling for Bru refugees in Mizoram's Mamit district, even as the leaders of the tribal community maintained that they fear for their safety in their home state.

The place of voting for 11,232 Bru voters, who are residing in neighbouring Tripura, has been a bone of contention, leading to the replacement of the then chief electoral officer, S B Shashank, less than two weeks ahead of the election to the 40-member House.

Shashank had been accused of facilitating voting by Bru voters in the relief camps of Tripura.

"We have been informed by the Election Commission that the polling for the Brus must be arranged at Kanhmun village inside Mizoram territory. We have started our preparations for that," an official in the CEO office told PTI.

Kanhmun is an interstate border village between Mizoram and Tripura.

A written order to this effect is likely to be received by Mizoram CEO Ashish Kundra in a day or two, the official said.

"In the last three years, there was no revision of electoral rolls. This time we did it. The Bru refugees are registered in nine Assembly seats and we'll place different voting machines accordingly at the special booth in the village," he said.

Kundra had on Tuesday visited Naisingpara -- the largest Bru camp in Tripura -- to meet the refugees and inform them about the EC's decision.

An election official, who accompanied the CEO to Tripura, said the Bru leaders claimed that the voter turnout from the community might be zero if the EC did not change its decision to hold polling in Kahnmun.

"Kundra tried explaining to them that the decision was taken by the Election Commission, but the Bru refugees said they fear for their lives in Mizoram.

They also cited various reasons, including bad-road condition, to justify their demand for polling-booth arrangement in the relief camps," he added.

The six camps of the Bru refugees are located between 2-10 km from the interstate border between Tripura and Mizoram.

The highest number of Brus has been registered in Mamit district, which has Hachhek, Dampa and Mamit seats, with 14 per cent of the total voters being refugees.

It is followed by Kolasib district, with 3.5 per cent of its total voters being Brus. The district has Tuirial, Kolasib and Serlui Assembly seats. In Lunglei district, less than one per cent of the total voters are Bru refugees.

Earlier this month, the Election Commission had removed Shashank as the state chief electoral officer, accepting the demands of civil society groups, NGOs, student organisations and political parties.

The agitators organised dharnas in front of the CEO's office against Shashank's reported move to facilitate voting by Bru voters in the relief camps of Tripura.

They demanded that the Brus, who had fled Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997, would have to come to the state to cast their votes as committed by the ECI in 2014.

Meanwhile, the NGO Coordination Committee -- an apex body of civil societies and students' organisations -- has urged the political parties to refrain from arranging transport for Bru voters on the polling day on November 28.

The Election Commission has decided to hold polling for Bru refugees in Mizoram's Mamit district, even as the leaders of the tribal community maintained that they fear for their safety in their home state.

The Election Commission has decided to hold polling for Bru refugees in Mizoram's Mamit district, even as the leaders of the tribal community maintained that they fear for their safety in their home state. The place of voting for 11,232 Bru voters, who are residing in neighbouring Tripura, has been a bone of contention, leading to the replacement of the then chief electoral officer, S B Shashank, less than two weeks ahead of the election to the 40-member House. Shashank had been accused of facilitating voting by Bru voters in the relief camps of Tripura. "We have been informed by the Election Commission that the polling for the Brus must be arranged at Kanhmun village inside Mizoram territory. We have started our preparations for that," an official in the CEO office told PTI. Kanhmun is an interstate border village between Mizoram and Tripura. A written order to this effect is likely to be received by Mizoram CEO Ashish Kundra in a day or two, the official said. "In the last three years, there was no revision of electoral rolls. This time we did it. The Bru refugees are registered in nine Assembly seats and we'll place different voting machines accordingly at the special booth in the village," he said. Kundra had on Tuesday visited Naisingpara -- the largest Bru camp in Tripura -- to meet the refugees and inform them about the EC's decision. An election official, who accompanied the CEO to Tripura, said the Bru leaders claimed that the voter turnout from the community might be zero if the EC did not change its decision to hold polling in Kahnmun. "Kundra tried explaining to them that the decision was taken by the Election Commission, but the Bru refugees said they fear for their lives in Mizoram. They also cited various reasons, including bad-road condition, to justify their demand for polling-booth arrangement in the relief camps," he added. The six camps of the Bru refugees are located between 2-10 km from the interstate border between Tripura and Mizoram. The highest number of Brus has been registered in Mamit district, which has Hachhek, Dampa and Mamit seats, with 14 per cent of the total voters being refugees. It is followed by Kolasib district, with 3.5 per cent of its total voters being Brus. The district has Tuirial, Kolasib and Serlui Assembly seats. In Lunglei district, less than one per cent of the total voters are Bru refugees. Earlier this month, the Election Commission had removed Shashank as the state chief electoral officer, accepting the demands of civil society groups, NGOs, student organisations and political parties. The agitators organised dharnas in front of the CEO's office against Shashank's reported move to facilitate voting by Bru voters in the relief camps of Tripura. They demanded that the Brus, who had fled Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997, would have to come to the state to cast their votes as committed by the ECI in 2014. Meanwhile, the NGO Coordination Committee -- an apex body of civil societies and students' organisations -- has urged the political parties to refrain from arranging transport for Bru voters on the polling day on November 28.

Bru refugees to vote in Mizoram's Mamit district: Official

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election.

The number of Bharatiya Janata Party women candidates are two less compared to the 2013 Assembly election, while the Congress had fielded four more this time.

The Congress has given tickets to three Muslim women, and the BJP chose four women from the erstwhile royal families.

The women from the erstwhile royal families include Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, sitting MLAs Siddhi Kumari, Krishnendra Kaur Deepa and Kalpna Devi, who is the wife of former Congress MP Ijyaraj Singh.&nbsp;

Among the Congress' women candidates, Divya Maderna is the daughter of former minister Mahipal Maderna, who is facing trial in the Bhanwari Devi murder case, while the husbands of Safia and Gulnaz had contested the 2013 assembly election as Congress candidates.&nbsp;

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election.

The BJP has fielded 23 women out of its 200 candidates, while the Congress has given tickets to 27 out of its 195 candidates for the Rajasthan Assembly election. The number of Bharatiya Janata Party women candidates are two less compared to the 2013 Assembly election, while the Congress had fielded four more this time. The Congress has given tickets to three Muslim women, and the BJP chose four women from the erstwhile royal families. The women from the erstwhile royal families include Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, sitting MLAs Siddhi Kumari, Krishnendra Kaur Deepa and Kalpna Devi, who is the wife of former Congress MP Ijyaraj Singh. Among the Congress' women candidates, Divya Maderna is the daughter of former minister Mahipal Maderna, who is facing trial in the Bhanwari Devi murder case, while the husbands of Safia and Gulnaz had contested the 2013 assembly election as Congress candidates.

Women candidates in Rajasthan polls: Congress 27, BJP 23

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively.

The others seats, namely, Baikunthupur, Mannendragarh and Bharatpur-Sonhat recorded 32.3 per cent, 24 per cent and 25.10 per cent polling respectively till 12.30 pm. 
 
The polling is taking place in 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts. The voting which commenced at 8 am is scheduled to end at 5 pm.

As many as 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.&nbsp;

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.

As much as 45.2 per cent voting was recorded till 2:55 pm in the ongoing second phase of polling in Chhattisgrh on Tuesday. According to the Election Commission of India, the overall polling percentage stood at 23.71 per cent at 12:30 pm. Pathalgaon was on the top of the list with 34.70 per cent turnout followed by Kunkuri and Jashpur with 34.7 per cent and 34.5 per cent voter turnout respectively. The others seats, namely, Baikunthupur, Mannendragarh and Bharatpur-Sonhat recorded 32.3 per cent, 24 per cent and 25.10 per cent polling respectively till 12.30 pm. The polling is taking place in 72 constituencies spread over 19 districts. The voting which commenced at 8 am is scheduled to end at 5 pm. As many as 19,300 polling booths have been set up for the second phase of polling. 1,079 candidates including 119 women are in the fray. More than 1,54,00,000 voters are eligible to exercise their voting right in the poll.

Chhattisgarh polls: 45.2% polling recorded till 3 pm

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor.&nbsp;

He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity.

The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France.

"The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said.

In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice.

"To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor.&nbsp;

The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections.

Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average.

"This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. 
Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday accused the Narendra Modi-led government of interfering in the functioning of important institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI. Addressing an election rally in poll-bound Mizoram's capital Aizawl, Gandhi said being an RSS man is sufficient qualification to be governor or vice chancellor. He also reiterated his allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has robbed public money and used it to buy publicity. The government has denied the opposition party's allegations on the fighter jet deal with France. "The Modi government is interfering in the functioning of the Planning Commission, RBI, CBI and Election Commission. Four judges of the Supreme Court said they could not do their jobs due to government interference," Gandhi said. In January, four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- called a press conference to say the situation in the top court was "not in order". Gogoi is now chief justice. "To be governor or VC of a university, being an RSS man is sufficient qualification," Gandhi, who had addressed a rally in Champhai in the state earlier in the day, said while hitting out at the ruling BJP's ideological mentor. The Congress president also attacked the opposition MNF for allegedly working with the BJP in the Mizoram elections. Lauding his party government in the state for the past 10 years, he said the per capita income of Mizoram is higher than the national average. "This happened due to united efforts of the people, churches and civil societies," he added. Elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly will be held on November 28.

Government interfering in functioning of important institutions like EC, CBI: Rahul Gandhi

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter.

Addressing a public meeting organised by his party in Nirmal on Monday night, Owaisi alleged that A Maheshwar Reddy called a MIM leader on phone and offered to pay Rs 25 lakh as bribe to stop him from holding the meeting. He also claimed to have recorded the conversation.

Rejecting the charge, Reddy termed it as baseless and false and said he would quit politics if Owaisi proved it.

MIM, which is on friendly terms with the TRS, has not fielded its candidate in Nirmal Assembly seat, and organised the meeting in support of the ruling party candidate though there was no formal electoral tie-up between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections.

The MIM is contesting eight seats -- all in Hyderabad -- while the TRS is going it alone in the polls to the 119-member assembly. Congress heading a 'grand alliance' of TDP, CPI and TJS has announced candidates for 94 segments.

"Now when this jalsa (meeting) is happening the Congress people tried to buy Asaduddin Owaisi. Maheshwar (Reddy) phoned a MIM leader telling him to stop Owaisi Saheb, (and) will give Rs 25 lakh party fund. I have the recording (of that phone conversation)," Owaisi said at the meeting.

This Congress candidate wants to buy my party for Rs 25 lakh. "Ye log samajthe hain ham apni jamat ka sauda karenge" (these people think we do deal for our party) Rs 25 lakh that is the sign of their arrogance," the Hyderabad MP alleged.&nbsp;

Strongly refuting Owaisis allegations, Reddy dared Owaisi to prove the charge with evidence.

"Why should somebody stop someone's rally. Owaisi has already started campaigning for TRS party and now this man says that he is being stopped with an offer of Rs 25 lakh. Why somebody will offer him Rs 25 lakh and why he will stop," he told PTI.

"I want to make it very clear if really somebody had called him or met him or if he has any evidence let him show the evidences. I am ready to take it as a challenge and I am ready to quit politics if it is proved. Is he ready to quit politics, if it is untrue? he asked.

They were talking of something which was "baseless and false", he added.&nbsp;

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter.

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the Congress candidate in Nirmal constituency in poll-bound Telangana attempted to bribe him by offering Rs 25 lakh to cancel his rally in support of the TRS in the town, a charge denied by the latter. Addressing a public meeting organised by his party in Nirmal on Monday night, Owaisi alleged that A Maheshwar Reddy called a MIM leader on phone and offered to pay Rs 25 lakh as bribe to stop him from holding the meeting. He also claimed to have recorded the conversation. Rejecting the charge, Reddy termed it as baseless and false and said he would quit politics if Owaisi proved it. MIM, which is on friendly terms with the TRS, has not fielded its candidate in Nirmal Assembly seat, and organised the meeting in support of the ruling party candidate though there was no formal electoral tie-up between the two parties for the December 7 Assembly elections. The MIM is contesting eight seats -- all in Hyderabad -- while the TRS is going it alone in the polls to the 119-member assembly. Congress heading a 'grand alliance' of TDP, CPI and TJS has announced candidates for 94 segments. "Now when this jalsa (meeting) is happening the Congress people tried to buy Asaduddin Owaisi. Maheshwar (Reddy) phoned a MIM leader telling him to stop Owaisi Saheb, (and) will give Rs 25 lakh party fund. I have the recording (of that phone conversation)," Owaisi said at the meeting. This Congress candidate wants to buy my party for Rs 25 lakh. "Ye log samajthe hain ham apni jamat ka sauda karenge" (these people think we do deal for our party) Rs 25 lakh that is the sign of their arrogance," the Hyderabad MP alleged. Strongly refuting Owaisis allegations, Reddy dared Owaisi to prove the charge with evidence. "Why should somebody stop someone's rally. Owaisi has already started campaigning for TRS party and now this man says that he is being stopped with an offer of Rs 25 lakh. Why somebody will offer him Rs 25 lakh and why he will stop," he told PTI. "I want to make it very clear if really somebody had called him or met him or if he has any evidence let him show the evidences. I am ready to take it as a challenge and I am ready to quit politics if it is proved. Is he ready to quit politics, if it is untrue? he asked. They were talking of something which was "baseless and false", he added.

Owaisi hurls bribe charge, Congress candidate rejects allegation

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built. This issue comes up only during the elections and once elections are over it is forgotten," as quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account,is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built.This issue comes up only during the elections &amp;once elections are over it is forgotten: Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena in Mumbai <a href="https://t.co/XFlMCTDMUU">pic.twitter.com/XFlMCTDMUU</a>
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Thackeray is set to visit Ayodhya on November 24 and 25 to pay obeisance to the Ram Lalla at Ram Janmabhoomi.&nbsp;

He also came up with a new slogan "pehle mandir, fir sarkaar" (First temple, then government).&nbsp;

The Shiv Sena, which is the part of the BJP-led governments in both Maharashtra and the Centre, has been aggressively pushing for the construction of the temple since the party's annual Dussehra rally last month.

The party has often taunted its ally BJP over the saffron party's "failure" to construct the temple in the last four years despite coming to power.

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla?

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday ensured that Ram Mandir would be built, will also throw a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While addressing the crowd he said: "Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account, is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built. This issue comes up only during the elections and once elections are over it is forgotten," as quoted by news agency ANI. Just like Rs 15 lakh in everyone’s account,is Ram Mandir also a jumla? When we're taking up this issue, we aim to ensure that Ram Mandir is actually built.This issue comes up only during the elections &once elections are over it is forgotten: Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/XFlMCTDMUU — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × Thackeray is set to visit Ayodhya on November 24 and 25 to pay obeisance to the Ram Lalla at Ram Janmabhoomi. He also came up with a new slogan "pehle mandir, fir sarkaar" (First temple, then government). The Shiv Sena, which is the part of the BJP-led governments in both Maharashtra and the Centre, has been aggressively pushing for the construction of the temple since the party's annual Dussehra rally last month. The party has often taunted its ally BJP over the saffron party's "failure" to construct the temple in the last four years despite coming to power.

'Is Ram Mandir also a jumla?' asks Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

"The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said.

The BJP chief&nbsp;said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said.

"In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm.

He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016.

"When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said.

Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position.

"By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country. "The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said. The BJP chief said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said. "In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm. He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016. "When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said. Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position. "By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

Rahul Gandhi has 'Modi-Phobia', named him 44 times in speech: Amit Shah

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje along with Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Prakash Javadekar on Monday flagged off the election campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of the state elections.

"From today onwards the election campaign has finally begun in the state of Rajasthan. It has now initiated legally and formally for the coming general assembly polls. BJP is connected with the people from grass root level. The people of Rajasthan have always favoured development. I am fully assured that BJP will come to power again in the state," Raje told media here.

Raje further stated that the BJP will also bag the Tonk legislative constituency, from where Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) chief Sachin Pilot is contesting.

The assembly elections will take place in a single phase for all 200 seats on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje along with Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Prakash Javadekar on Monday flagged off the election campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of the state elections.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje along with Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Prakash Javadekar on Monday flagged off the election campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of the state elections. "From today onwards the election campaign has finally begun in the state of Rajasthan. It has now initiated legally and formally for the coming general assembly polls. BJP is connected with the people from grass root level. The people of Rajasthan have always favoured development. I am fully assured that BJP will come to power again in the state," Raje told media here. Raje further stated that the BJP will also bag the Tonk legislative constituency, from where Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) chief Sachin Pilot is contesting. The assembly elections will take place in a single phase for all 200 seats on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Rajasthan: CM Raje flags off BJP's election campaign

There are promises that are made in a poll season and most of them remain promises, but in the election season of this small hill state, all major political parties say they are serious when it comes to liquor -- whether to ban it or not, and whether to ban it fully or partially.

Mizoram will vote on November 28 for 40 assembly seats to decide who will form the next government in this highly-literate and Christian-majority state.

The state has a total population of about 10 lakh people only, but elections here are being seen as very important for the Congress and and Mizoram National Party (MNF), who have ruled Mizoram ever since it became a full-fledged state in 1987, as also for the BJP that sees it as the 'final frontier' in the North-East.

While the ruling Congress is against total prohibition, the main opposition MNF wants a complete ban. The BJP has taken a middle path by proposing to ban the liquor coming from outside the state and encourage only locally produced ones.

"It (liquor) is an epidemic, a big plague in Mizoram. We are going to solve the drug and alcohol problem by a total prohibition of liquor. We will fight totally against the drugs," MNF President and former Chief Minister Zoramthanga told PTI in an interview.

When the state Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla was in office for his third term, he introduced the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition Act banning sale and consumption of alcohol effective from February 20, 1997.

In 2007, the Act was amended during the MNF chief minister Zoramthanga's rule to allow wine to be made from guavas and grapes, but with restrictions on the alcohol content and the volume possessed.

During Thanhawla's fifth term, Mizoram repealed prohibition on July 10, 2014.

The powerful Presbyterian Church had organised mass prayers in all member churches across the state twice that year against repeal of the prohibition. 
The MLPC Act came into force from January 15, 2015, while the first wine shop under the new law was opened on March 16, 2015.

Congress Spokesperson Lallian Chhunga said: "We had a socio-economic survey in September and it found that liquor is a minor issue. MNF wants to make it a big issue. But I don't know how far they have succeeded in it. I am not sure if they are really convinced to swing votes on their favour over the liquor issue."

Some local entrepreneurs favour alcoholic beverages being allowed here.

"Youths do not like total prohibition. MNF and ZPM (Zoram People's Movement) are for total prohibition. Congress can gain from this," Aizawl-based journalist-turned-entrepreneur Joseph Lalhriatpuia said.

Restaurant owner Lalremruata said liquor is not an issue and parties talk about it only in elections.

Zoramthanga, however, claimed around 500 policemen and 6,500-7000 others have died at a young age since 2015 due to excessive drinking.

"It is a thing that matters most. It has become a headache of every parent, every wife. Not only the church, it is practically the headache of every family because they have a problem as liquor is not only easily available, but also of fourth-grade quality," he added.

According to the Mizoram Excise &amp; Narcotics Department website, deaths due to liquor consumption have been on a rise from 9 in 2015 to 22 in 2016 and to 59 in 2017.

Mizoram BJP President J V Hluna said, "We will not import IMFL to Mizoram. Liquor consumption will not be banned, but locally produced liquor (will be allowed). We will legalise local products and export them too."

People's Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM), a new party contesting polls for the first time, said total prohibition is not a solution.

"We have had total prohibition two times in Mizoram. During the MNF insurgency, they prohibited liquor from the jungle. They killed so many local liquor vendors, but liquor was there. After that, the government's total prohibition came, but liquor was there. So, the issue is not prohibition," PRISM President Vanlalruata said.

Favouring control than prohibition, PRISM leader said people need to be made aware about ill affects of liquor and some changes can be made in the MLPC Act.

"Liquor is an election issue. Most of the church leaders and church activists are anti-liquor. But, most youths don't like prohibition," Vanlalruata said. 
Zoramthanga, Hluna and Vanlalruata also pitched for home-made rice beer or locally produced liquor.

MNF leader and candidate from Aizawl East-II constituency Robert Romawia Royte said gains for the state government from allowing liquor is less than the loss it causes.

Stating that liquor consumption is against the Bible, Royte further said: "Men are dying in Mizoram. Number of widows is increasing. We have a peculiar situation, where male voters are less than the women voters."

Mizoram has total 7.68 lakh registered voters -- 3.74 lakh are men and 3.93 lakh are women.

Except Mamit district, rest all seven districts -- Kolasib, Aizawl, Champhai, Serchhip, Lunglei, Lawngtlai and Siaha -- have higher number of female voters.

The Congress has been in power in Mizoram since 2008 and is eyeing the third consecutive term. In 2013 Assembly elections, the Congress won 34 seats, while the MNF had five and Mizoram People's Conference bagged one.

While Congress and MNF are contesting in all the 40 constituencies this time, BJP is fighting in 39 seats and PRISM has put up candidates in 15 seats.

There are promises that are made in a poll season and most of them remain promises, but in the election season of this small hill state, all major political parties say they are serious when it comes to liquor -- whether to ban it or not, and whether to ban it fully or partially.

There are promises that are made in a poll season and most of them remain promises, but in the election season of this small hill state, all major political parties say they are serious when it comes to liquor -- whether to ban it or not, and whether to ban it fully or partially. Mizoram will vote on November 28 for 40 assembly seats to decide who will form the next government in this highly-literate and Christian-majority state. The state has a total population of about 10 lakh people only, but elections here are being seen as very important for the Congress and and Mizoram National Party (MNF), who have ruled Mizoram ever since it became a full-fledged state in 1987, as also for the BJP that sees it as the 'final frontier' in the North-East. While the ruling Congress is against total prohibition, the main opposition MNF wants a complete ban. The BJP has taken a middle path by proposing to ban the liquor coming from outside the state and encourage only locally produced ones. "It (liquor) is an epidemic, a big plague in Mizoram. We are going to solve the drug and alcohol problem by a total prohibition of liquor. We will fight totally against the drugs," MNF President and former Chief Minister Zoramthanga told PTI in an interview. When the state Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla was in office for his third term, he introduced the Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition Act banning sale and consumption of alcohol effective from February 20, 1997. In 2007, the Act was amended during the MNF chief minister Zoramthanga's rule to allow wine to be made from guavas and grapes, but with restrictions on the alcohol content and the volume possessed. During Thanhawla's fifth term, Mizoram repealed prohibition on July 10, 2014. The powerful Presbyterian Church had organised mass prayers in all member churches across the state twice that year against repeal of the prohibition. The MLPC Act came into force from January 15, 2015, while the first wine shop under the new law was opened on March 16, 2015. Congress Spokesperson Lallian Chhunga said: "We had a socio-economic survey in September and it found that liquor is a minor issue. MNF wants to make it a big issue. But I don't know how far they have succeeded in it. I am not sure if they are really convinced to swing votes on their favour over the liquor issue." Some local entrepreneurs favour alcoholic beverages being allowed here. "Youths do not like total prohibition. MNF and ZPM (Zoram People's Movement) are for total prohibition. Congress can gain from this," Aizawl-based journalist-turned-entrepreneur Joseph Lalhriatpuia said. Restaurant owner Lalremruata said liquor is not an issue and parties talk about it only in elections. Zoramthanga, however, claimed around 500 policemen and 6,500-7000 others have died at a young age since 2015 due to excessive drinking. "It is a thing that matters most. It has become a headache of every parent, every wife. Not only the church, it is practically the headache of every family because they have a problem as liquor is not only easily available, but also of fourth-grade quality," he added. According to the Mizoram Excise & Narcotics Department website, deaths due to liquor consumption have been on a rise from 9 in 2015 to 22 in 2016 and to 59 in 2017. Mizoram BJP President J V Hluna said, "We will not import IMFL to Mizoram. Liquor consumption will not be banned, but locally produced liquor (will be allowed). We will legalise local products and export them too." People's Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM), a new party contesting polls for the first time, said total prohibition is not a solution. "We have had total prohibition two times in Mizoram. During the MNF insurgency, they prohibited liquor from the jungle. They killed so many local liquor vendors, but liquor was there. After that, the government's total prohibition came, but liquor was there. So, the issue is not prohibition," PRISM President Vanlalruata said. Favouring control than prohibition, PRISM leader said people need to be made aware about ill affects of liquor and some changes can be made in the MLPC Act. "Liquor is an election issue. Most of the church leaders and church activists are anti-liquor. But, most youths don't like prohibition," Vanlalruata said. Zoramthanga, Hluna and Vanlalruata also pitched for home-made rice beer or locally produced liquor. MNF leader and candidate from Aizawl East-II constituency Robert Romawia Royte said gains for the state government from allowing liquor is less than the loss it causes. Stating that liquor consumption is against the Bible, Royte further said: "Men are dying in Mizoram. Number of widows is increasing. We have a peculiar situation, where male voters are less than the women voters." Mizoram has total 7.68 lakh registered voters -- 3.74 lakh are men and 3.93 lakh are women. Except Mamit district, rest all seven districts -- Kolasib, Aizawl, Champhai, Serchhip, Lunglei, Lawngtlai and Siaha -- have higher number of female voters. The Congress has been in power in Mizoram since 2008 and is eyeing the third consecutive term. In 2013 Assembly elections, the Congress won 34 seats, while the MNF had five and Mizoram People's Conference bagged one. While Congress and MNF are contesting in all the 40 constituencies this time, BJP is fighting in 39 seats and PRISM has put up candidates in 15 seats.

To raise a toast or not: Liquor a poll issue on platter of all Mizoram parties

Amid rising election campaign heat in Mizoram, the state's BJP unit chief J V Hulna has claimed that Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla of Congress wanted to join the saffron party along with some other party MLAs before the poll process started, a claim dismissed by the ruling party leaders as a "joke".

The Mizoram BJP president also claimed that most of the elected Congress MLAs will join his party after the poll results for the state are out on December 11. The elections are scheduled to be held on November 28 for 40 assembly states of the state, where the Congress has been in power since 2008.

The BJP has never won an assembly election in this small hill state with a population of just about 10 lakh people, including nearly 7.68 lakh voters, but it is seen by the saffron party as the "final frontier" in the North-East as it is in power in all other states of the region -- either by winning polls or joining ruling alliances.

The BJP president Amit Shah recently declared that Mizoram, a Christian-majority state, will celebrate Christmas this December under the BJP rule. 
"Lal Thanhawla himself, before this election, and his followers contacted the central leadership (of BJP) to merge the whole Congress in the state, just like the Arunachal Pradesh. They were in contact with them," Hluna told PTI.

"They did not contact me, they contacted our leaders in Delhi. From them, I learnt that Lal Thanhawla was willing to join BJP," he added.

In September 2016, the Congress lost its government in Arunachal Pradesh when 43 of its MLAs led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu defected wholesale and merged with the People's Party of Arunachal, just two months after it had regained power following the Supreme Court's judgement.

A senior leader of the principal opposition party in Mizoram, Mizo National Front (MNF), also made similar allegations against the chief minister and said that the deal fell through as the Congress leader's "demands" were rejected by the BJP's central leaders.

Thanhawla, a nine-time MLA, could not be contacted for his reactions despite repeated attempts, but a senior minister of his Cabinet termed the allegations as the "funniest jokes ever known".

On condition of anonymity, an MNF leader, who is also contesting the Mizoram Assembly elections from a constituency in the capital city, claimed that Thanhawla had contacted a senior central leader of the BJP and had sought the Chief Minister's post for his daughter and the Governor's post for himself in return of joining the BJP with party MLAs.

"But these demands were rejected outright," he said.

When asked about these claims, Hluna said: "These points, I don't know. But I know that he (Thanhawla) had contacted (Home Minister) Rajnath Singh. And from them, I learnt Lal Thanhawla did not mind joining BJP. That's the thing. But his demands, I do not know."

Going a step further, the state BJP president asserted that most of the elected Congress MLAs after the results are declared will join the BJP as Thanhawla's "ideology is to join central ruling party, whether Congress or BJP".

"So after elections, all elected MLAs of Congress will join our party. They will merge with our party, if they really follow Lal Thanhawla's teaching," he said.

Asked further how can he be so sure about all the Congress MLAs joining the BJP, Hluna said: "May not all, but most of them... (will join) within this year." 
The former MLA said that for the benefit of the Mizo people, the ideology of any chief minister, whether he from the Congress or the MNF or the BJP, is to be with the ruling party at the Centre as Mizoram is a very poor and interior state.

While Thanhawla could not be contacted despite repeated attempts for his reaction on these allegations, the state's Finance Minister Lalsawta vehemently dismissed these claims.

"Don't make me laugh. Many inventions are there, but that wild allegation -- that is the funniest allegation I have ever known," he said.

On claims about Congress MLAs joining BJP post-result, the senior ruling party leader said: "I have confidence in my colleagues, my Congress candidates. That is the second funniest joke you have given me this afternoon. You will be digging your own political grave if you join BJP once you get elected as a Congress MLA."

Lalsawta, however, said Mizoram would wants to have cordial and good relationships with the Centre like any other state.

Asked about a series of resignations by senior Congress leaders from the assembly and party in the last two months, the minister said there have been various reasons.

"They did not find a promising constituency for themselves. They had to migrate," he said.

At least five Congress MLAs have resigned from the assembly and the party in the run-up to the polls and joined other parties.

Those having resigned include state's home minister R Lalzirliana, former health minister Lalrinliana Sailo, former fisheries minister Buddha Dhan Chakma and MLA Hmingdailova Khiangte. Besides, Mizoram assembly speaker Hiphei resigned earlier this month to join the BJP.

With days left for the elections, Congress and the MNF are leaving no stones unturned to woo the voters, while BJP has launched a spirited campaign to get power in this strategically important North Eastern state sandwiched between Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Amid rising election campaign heat in Mizoram, the state's BJP unit chief J V Hulna has claimed that Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla of Congress wanted to join the saffron party along with some other party MLAs before the poll process started, a claim dismissed by the ruling party leaders as a "joke".

Amid rising election campaign heat in Mizoram, the state's BJP unit chief J V Hulna has claimed that Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla of Congress wanted to join the saffron party along with some other party MLAs before the poll process started, a claim dismissed by the ruling party leaders as a "joke". The Mizoram BJP president also claimed that most of the elected Congress MLAs will join his party after the poll results for the state are out on December 11. The elections are scheduled to be held on November 28 for 40 assembly states of the state, where the Congress has been in power since 2008. The BJP has never won an assembly election in this small hill state with a population of just about 10 lakh people, including nearly 7.68 lakh voters, but it is seen by the saffron party as the "final frontier" in the North-East as it is in power in all other states of the region -- either by winning polls or joining ruling alliances. The BJP president Amit Shah recently declared that Mizoram, a Christian-majority state, will celebrate Christmas this December under the BJP rule. "Lal Thanhawla himself, before this election, and his followers contacted the central leadership (of BJP) to merge the whole Congress in the state, just like the Arunachal Pradesh. They were in contact with them," Hluna told PTI. "They did not contact me, they contacted our leaders in Delhi. From them, I learnt that Lal Thanhawla was willing to join BJP," he added. In September 2016, the Congress lost its government in Arunachal Pradesh when 43 of its MLAs led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu defected wholesale and merged with the People's Party of Arunachal, just two months after it had regained power following the Supreme Court's judgement. A senior leader of the principal opposition party in Mizoram, Mizo National Front (MNF), also made similar allegations against the chief minister and said that the deal fell through as the Congress leader's "demands" were rejected by the BJP's central leaders. Thanhawla, a nine-time MLA, could not be contacted for his reactions despite repeated attempts, but a senior minister of his Cabinet termed the allegations as the "funniest jokes ever known". On condition of anonymity, an MNF leader, who is also contesting the Mizoram Assembly elections from a constituency in the capital city, claimed that Thanhawla had contacted a senior central leader of the BJP and had sought the Chief Minister's post for his daughter and the Governor's post for himself in return of joining the BJP with party MLAs. "But these demands were rejected outright," he said. When asked about these claims, Hluna said: "These points, I don't know. But I know that he (Thanhawla) had contacted (Home Minister) Rajnath Singh. And from them, I learnt Lal Thanhawla did not mind joining BJP. That's the thing. But his demands, I do not know." Going a step further, the state BJP president asserted that most of the elected Congress MLAs after the results are declared will join the BJP as Thanhawla's "ideology is to join central ruling party, whether Congress or BJP". "So after elections, all elected MLAs of Congress will join our party. They will merge with our party, if they really follow Lal Thanhawla's teaching," he said. Asked further how can he be so sure about all the Congress MLAs joining the BJP, Hluna said: "May not all, but most of them... (will join) within this year." The former MLA said that for the benefit of the Mizo people, the ideology of any chief minister, whether he from the Congress or the MNF or the BJP, is to be with the ruling party at the Centre as Mizoram is a very poor and interior state. While Thanhawla could not be contacted despite repeated attempts for his reaction on these allegations, the state's Finance Minister Lalsawta vehemently dismissed these claims. "Don't make me laugh. Many inventions are there, but that wild allegation -- that is the funniest allegation I have ever known," he said. On claims about Congress MLAs joining BJP post-result, the senior ruling party leader said: "I have confidence in my colleagues, my Congress candidates. That is the second funniest joke you have given me this afternoon. You will be digging your own political grave if you join BJP once you get elected as a Congress MLA." Lalsawta, however, said Mizoram would wants to have cordial and good relationships with the Centre like any other state. Asked about a series of resignations by senior Congress leaders from the assembly and party in the last two months, the minister said there have been various reasons. "They did not find a promising constituency for themselves. They had to migrate," he said. At least five Congress MLAs have resigned from the assembly and the party in the run-up to the polls and joined other parties. Those having resigned include state's home minister R Lalzirliana, former health minister Lalrinliana Sailo, former fisheries minister Buddha Dhan Chakma and MLA Hmingdailova Khiangte. Besides, Mizoram assembly speaker Hiphei resigned earlier this month to join the BJP. With days left for the elections, Congress and the MNF are leaving no stones unturned to woo the voters, while BJP has launched a spirited campaign to get power in this strategically important North Eastern state sandwiched between Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Mizoram BJP chief alleges CM Thanhawla wanted to join saffron party, Congress calls it 'joke'

The BJP in Telangana Sunday released the fifth list of 19 candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in the state.

With the release of the fifth list, the party has so far announced the names of 112 candidates out of 119 seats member assembly.

Telangana is going to polls on December 7.

Party chief Amit Shah had launched the election campaign on September 15 at Mahabubnagar and addressed another rally at Karimnagar last month.

He had also addressed a Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha national convention last month.

The BJP had five MLAs in the recently dissolved state assembly and all of them have been renominated.

Telangana Assembly was dissolved on September six, more than eight months ahead of the expiry of its term, on the recommendation of (now) Caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who opted to go for early elections.&nbsp;

The BJP in Telangana Sunday released the fifth list of 19 candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. With the release of the fifth list, the party has so far announced the names of 112 candidates out of 119 seats member assembly.

The BJP in Telangana Sunday released the fifth list of 19 candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. With the release of the fifth list, the party has so far announced the names of 112 candidates out of 119 seats member assembly. Telangana is going to polls on December 7. Party chief Amit Shah had launched the election campaign on September 15 at Mahabubnagar and addressed another rally at Karimnagar last month. He had also addressed a Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha national convention last month. The BJP had five MLAs in the recently dissolved state assembly and all of them have been renominated. Telangana Assembly was dissolved on September six, more than eight months ahead of the expiry of its term, on the recommendation of (now) Caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who opted to go for early elections.

BJP releases fifth list of candidates for Telangana polls

A 42-year-old man, said to be TRS worker, allegedly committed suicide here leaving behind a purported suicide note, urging voters to re-elect TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao as Telangana Chief Minister.

He also urged them to re-elect MLA Vivekananda, police said Sunday.

The man had earlier made a vain attempt to commit suicide during the separate Telangana agitation.

The body of T Guruvappa was found hanging Saturday in a small room in Nizampet area, police said. 
&nbsp;

A 42-year-old man, said to be TRS worker, allegedly committed suicide here leaving behind a purported suicide note, urging voters to re-elect TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao as Telangana Chief Minister.

A 42-year-old man, said to be TRS worker, allegedly committed suicide here leaving behind a purported suicide note, urging voters to re-elect TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao as Telangana Chief Minister. He also urged them to re-elect MLA Vivekananda, police said Sunday. The man had earlier made a vain attempt to commit suicide during the separate Telangana agitation. The body of T Guruvappa was found hanging Saturday in a small room in Nizampet area, police said.

Man found hanging; note asks public to make TRS chief as CM

BJP president Amit Shah will hold talks with youths of poll-bound Rajasthan on November 21 here, Union minister Rajyavardhan Rathore here said on Sunday.

The main event will be held at Tagore School auditorium in the state capital where nearly 4,000 youths will participate. The event will be live streamed and Shah will take questions from youths present there and also from those at six other locations, Bharatpur, Udaipur, Kota, Jodhpur, Ajmer and Bikaner, he said at a press conference.

Apart from these places, town hall meetings will be held in other 200 locations across the state where youths will be present, Rathore said, adding questions from youths who will be present at these locations will be registered beforehand and they will not be able to ask question during the programme.

"India is emerging as a strong nation due to the vision and energy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Youth understand this. Social media has brought awareness among people on issues, be it political or any other. BJP has always has held dialogues with youth and therefore the party present is going to communicate with the state's youths on November 21," he said.

Rathore said that questions can be asked through social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook.

Assembly polls in Rajasthan will be held on December 7.

BJP president Amit Shah will hold talks with youths of poll-bound Rajasthan on November 21 here, Union minister Rajyavardhan Rathore here said on Sunday. The main event will be held at Tagore School auditorium in the state capital where nearly 4,000 youths will participate.

BJP president Amit Shah will hold talks with youths of poll-bound Rajasthan on November 21 here, Union minister Rajyavardhan Rathore here said on Sunday. The main event will be held at Tagore School auditorium in the state capital where nearly 4,000 youths will participate. The event will be live streamed and Shah will take questions from youths present there and also from those at six other locations, Bharatpur, Udaipur, Kota, Jodhpur, Ajmer and Bikaner, he said at a press conference. Apart from these places, town hall meetings will be held in other 200 locations across the state where youths will be present, Rathore said, adding questions from youths who will be present at these locations will be registered beforehand and they will not be able to ask question during the programme. "India is emerging as a strong nation due to the vision and energy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Youth understand this. Social media has brought awareness among people on issues, be it political or any other. BJP has always has held dialogues with youth and therefore the party present is going to communicate with the state's youths on November 21," he said. Rathore said that questions can be asked through social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Assembly polls in Rajasthan will be held on December 7.

Amit Shah to hold talks with youths of poll-bound Rajasthan on November 21: Rajyavardhan Rathore

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states.

The results of the assembly polls, including BJP-ruled Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, will lay the foundation for the Lok Sabha elections next year, he told PTI in an interview.

People want to get rid of the Narendra Modi-led government as it has not fulfilled a single promise made to them in 2014, Yadav claimed.

Accusing Prime Minister Modi of resorting to "sentimental" ploys like raking up his tea-seller background while his party colleagues talk of building Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Loktantrik Janta Dal patron said this shows the BJP has nothing to talk about its government's achievements.

"The Congress is in the driving seats in all the five states. People are under distress and want to defeat the BJP. The results of these (assembly) polls will lay the foundation stone for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections," he said.

Working to forge an alliance of opposition parties and win over new allies against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, Yadav said they will be united in 2019.

"The BJP had captured Delhi on the back of its win in the Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar). Its hope of returning to power in 2019 will be buried in the same plains," he said.

The NDA had won 104 of the 120 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in 2014 but a likely alliance of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samajwadi Party has made things much more challenging for the BJP in the politically most crucial state that sends 80 members to the lower house of Parliament.

The BJP has boosted its prospects in Bihar by allying with Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar, who had fought against it in 2014, but the opposition is working to shore up its support by wooing leaders in the NDA camp.

Yadav had recently met RLSP leader and BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha, and there is speculation that his Loktantrik Janata Dal and the RLSP may merge to boost the opposition alliance.

He declined to comment on the matter but Kushwaha's drift from the NDA is becoming increasingly evident as he said on Saturday that the number of seats offered to him by the BJP for the Lok Sabha polls is not "respectable", setting the deadline of November 30 to the saffron party to sort out the matter.

Attacking Modi for "chasing the Congress with a lathi day in and day out" while "not fulfilling his promises", Yadav said the prime minister rakes up sentimental issues like his tea-seller background to target the main opposition party.

The Congress was defeated in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the subsequent assembly elections. There cannot be a bigger punishment for a party than this, he said.

"People elected you (BJP) to power and punished them (Congress). Still, you are chasing them with a lathi day in and out. You do not do your work. You attack them (the Congress) everyday but do not fulfil your promises. People have become so distressed," Yadav said.

Whether it was the BJP's promise on generating employment or boosting the economy and cleaning the Ganga river, none of it has been fulfilled, he claimed and alleged that instead, measures like demonetisation hit people hard and the GST "destroyed" small traders.

These are the real issues on the ground, besides distress of farmers and high oil prices, he said while reiterating that the assembly polls will boost the opposition and set the tone for the Lok Sabha polls.

Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are due on November 26, and in Rajasthan and Telangana on December 7.

Chhattisgarh had gone to the polls for 18 seats on November 12 and polling for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20. Counting of votes for all the five states is due on December 11.

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states.

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday the BJP's hope to return to power at the Centre will be buried in the same states -- Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- which had propelled it to a big win in 2014, and asserted that the Congress will trump the saffron party in all the five poll-bound states. The results of the assembly polls, including BJP-ruled Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, will lay the foundation for the Lok Sabha elections next year, he told PTI in an interview. People want to get rid of the Narendra Modi-led government as it has not fulfilled a single promise made to them in 2014, Yadav claimed. Accusing Prime Minister Modi of resorting to "sentimental" ploys like raking up his tea-seller background while his party colleagues talk of building Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Loktantrik Janta Dal patron said this shows the BJP has nothing to talk about its government's achievements. "The Congress is in the driving seats in all the five states. People are under distress and want to defeat the BJP. The results of these (assembly) polls will lay the foundation stone for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections," he said. Working to forge an alliance of opposition parties and win over new allies against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, Yadav said they will be united in 2019. "The BJP had captured Delhi on the back of its win in the Gangetic plains (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar). Its hope of returning to power in 2019 will be buried in the same plains," he said. The NDA had won 104 of the 120 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in 2014 but a likely alliance of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samajwadi Party has made things much more challenging for the BJP in the politically most crucial state that sends 80 members to the lower house of Parliament. The BJP has boosted its prospects in Bihar by allying with Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar, who had fought against it in 2014, but the opposition is working to shore up its support by wooing leaders in the NDA camp. Yadav had recently met RLSP leader and BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha, and there is speculation that his Loktantrik Janata Dal and the RLSP may merge to boost the opposition alliance. He declined to comment on the matter but Kushwaha's drift from the NDA is becoming increasingly evident as he said on Saturday that the number of seats offered to him by the BJP for the Lok Sabha polls is not "respectable", setting the deadline of November 30 to the saffron party to sort out the matter. Attacking Modi for "chasing the Congress with a lathi day in and day out" while "not fulfilling his promises", Yadav said the prime minister rakes up sentimental issues like his tea-seller background to target the main opposition party. The Congress was defeated in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the subsequent assembly elections. There cannot be a bigger punishment for a party than this, he said. "People elected you (BJP) to power and punished them (Congress). Still, you are chasing them with a lathi day in and out. You do not do your work. You attack them (the Congress) everyday but do not fulfil your promises. People have become so distressed," Yadav said. Whether it was the BJP's promise on generating employment or boosting the economy and cleaning the Ganga river, none of it has been fulfilled, he claimed and alleged that instead, measures like demonetisation hit people hard and the GST "destroyed" small traders. These are the real issues on the ground, besides distress of farmers and high oil prices, he said while reiterating that the assembly polls will boost the opposition and set the tone for the Lok Sabha polls. Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram are due on November 26, and in Rajasthan and Telangana on December 7. Chhattisgarh had gone to the polls for 18 seats on November 12 and polling for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20. Counting of votes for all the five states is due on December 11.

Congress in driving seats in state polls, BJP's bid to return to power in 2019 will fail: Sharad Yadav

The Congress hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for speaking about a video purportedly featuring its Madhya Pradesh unit chief, Kamal Nath, at an election rally in Chhindwara Sunday.

Nath is a nine-time Lok Sabha MP of the Congress from Chhindwara.

Targeting Nath over a video that went viral on the social media, Modi, in his speech, said the state Congress chief had said the winnability of a candidate was the most important factor for him, rather than whether he was corrupt, a goon or facing criminal cases.

The prime minister went on to ask the gathering, "Should Madhya Pradesh be saved from such people (Congress candidates) or not? Should the state go into such hands?"

Reacting to Modi's speech, the Congress said it had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission (EC) about the "doctored and edited" video.

"Narendra Modi, who is holding the top post of prime minister, has dished out lies in Chhindwara on the basis of this doctored video," Congress spokesperson Narendra Saluja said.

Seeking an apology from the prime minister, he said the opposition party would also file also a complaint with the EC in this regard (Modi's reference to the video).

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

The Congress hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for speaking about a video purportedly featuring its Madhya Pradesh unit chief, Kamal Nath, at an election rally in Chhindwara Sunday.

The Congress hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for speaking about a video purportedly featuring its Madhya Pradesh unit chief, Kamal Nath, at an election rally in Chhindwara Sunday. Nath is a nine-time Lok Sabha MP of the Congress from Chhindwara. Targeting Nath over a video that went viral on the social media, Modi, in his speech, said the state Congress chief had said the winnability of a candidate was the most important factor for him, rather than whether he was corrupt, a goon or facing criminal cases. The prime minister went on to ask the gathering, "Should Madhya Pradesh be saved from such people (Congress candidates) or not? Should the state go into such hands?" Reacting to Modi's speech, the Congress said it had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission (EC) about the "doctored and edited" video. "Narendra Modi, who is holding the top post of prime minister, has dished out lies in Chhindwara on the basis of this doctored video," Congress spokesperson Narendra Saluja said. Seeking an apology from the prime minister, he said the opposition party would also file also a complaint with the EC in this regard (Modi's reference to the video). The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Congress hits out at PM for Kamal Nath video reference at poll rally

Roads, power and water are no longer poll issues in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh this time unlike in 2003, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here Sunday.&nbsp;

He was addressing a 'Prabuddhjan Sammelan' (intellectuals' meet) organised by the BJP, which was attended by doctors, lawyers, businessmen and other professionals.

"Sadak, bijli, pani (roads, power, water) are no more issues in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls scheduled on November 28," Jaitley said.

"The Assembly elections of 2003 (when the Congress was in power) were fought on three issues, roads, power and water. The condition of roads was very poor then and I was advised by partymen to travel from one district to another by helicopter or train and not by road," he said.

The Union minister said that in fifteen years, the BJP government in the state had improved the quality of roads and strengthened road connectivity, power and water supply.

In agriculture sector, Madhya Pradesh had replaced Punjab and become the "foodgrain bowl" of the country, he said.

The state, under the BJP rule, has shed its "Bimaru" (backward, laggard) tag and become "aspirational", Jaitley said.

He also claimed there was no social or economic discontent in the country. "Had there been discontent, opposition parties would have launched a movement against the government," he said.

Roads, power and water are no longer poll issues in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh this time unlike in 2003, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here Sunday. He was addressing a 'Prabuddhjan Sammelan' (intellectuals' meet) organised by the BJP, which was attended by doctors, lawyers, businessmen and other professionals.

Roads, power and water are no longer poll issues in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh this time unlike in 2003, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here Sunday. He was addressing a 'Prabuddhjan Sammelan' (intellectuals' meet) organised by the BJP, which was attended by doctors, lawyers, businessmen and other professionals. "Sadak, bijli, pani (roads, power, water) are no more issues in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls scheduled on November 28," Jaitley said. "The Assembly elections of 2003 (when the Congress was in power) were fought on three issues, roads, power and water. The condition of roads was very poor then and I was advised by partymen to travel from one district to another by helicopter or train and not by road," he said. The Union minister said that in fifteen years, the BJP government in the state had improved the quality of roads and strengthened road connectivity, power and water supply. In agriculture sector, Madhya Pradesh had replaced Punjab and become the "foodgrain bowl" of the country, he said. The state, under the BJP rule, has shed its "Bimaru" (backward, laggard) tag and become "aspirational", Jaitley said. He also claimed there was no social or economic discontent in the country. "Had there been discontent, opposition parties would have launched a movement against the government," he said.

Roads, power, water no issues in MP election: Arun Jaitley

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force.

The elections for the total 90 constituencies are being held in two phases--November 12 and November 20.

"Flying squads constituted by district election offices have been keeping a close watch on illegal consignment of liquor, cash and other items meant to influence the polls," said an officer with the office of State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

These squads comprise personnel from the police, excise and income tax departments, he said.

He said unaccounted cash, illicit liquor, drugs, jewellery and other items worth Rs 11,85,51,461 have been seized from separate places in the state during October 4 - November 16 periods.

"Recovered items include cash worth Rs 4,47,13,358 and 70,681 litres of liquor worth around Rs 1,30,15,000," he said.

The officer said 22-kg narcotic items worth Rs 1.76 lakh were also recovered.

"Besides, jewelleries and other valuables worth Rs 29,13,871 were seized, apart from laptops, vehicles, pressure cookers and other items worth Rs 5,77,33,175," he said, adding that cases have been registered under appropriate acts.

The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which is eyeing the fourth consecutive term in Chhattisgarh, and the opposition Congress are locked&nbsp; 
in a close contest in the state.

The contest has become triangular with the entry of former chief minister Ajit Jogi whose outfit has tied up with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) of Mayawati and the CPI.

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force.

Unaccounted cash, illicit liquor and other items worth over Rs 11.85 crore has been seized by officials in Chhattisgarh in run-up to assembly elections since October 4 when the model code came into force. The elections for the total 90 constituencies are being held in two phases--November 12 and November 20. "Flying squads constituted by district election offices have been keeping a close watch on illegal consignment of liquor, cash and other items meant to influence the polls," said an officer with the office of State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). These squads comprise personnel from the police, excise and income tax departments, he said. He said unaccounted cash, illicit liquor, drugs, jewellery and other items worth Rs 11,85,51,461 have been seized from separate places in the state during October 4 - November 16 periods. "Recovered items include cash worth Rs 4,47,13,358 and 70,681 litres of liquor worth around Rs 1,30,15,000," he said. The officer said 22-kg narcotic items worth Rs 1.76 lakh were also recovered. "Besides, jewelleries and other valuables worth Rs 29,13,871 were seized, apart from laptops, vehicles, pressure cookers and other items worth Rs 5,77,33,175," he said, adding that cases have been registered under appropriate acts. The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which is eyeing the fourth consecutive term in Chhattisgarh, and the opposition Congress are locked in a close contest in the state. The contest has become triangular with the entry of former chief minister Ajit Jogi whose outfit has tied up with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) of Mayawati and the CPI.

Chhattisgarh polls: Unaccounted cash, booze worth over Rs 11 crore seized

Congress stalwart from Rajasthan and former state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Sunday he did not hold any position in priority and will abide by the decision the party high command takes on the issue of CM post.

Not ruling himself out of the race for the top post in the state should Congress win, Gehlot said he would be open to any role Congress president Rahul Gandhi assigns him in the interest of the party.

"I am ready for whatever role Congress president gives me. I am against any kind of lobbying for any position. I have never lobbied even when I faced dissidence as CM. If they (the high command) send me to Rajasthan in party interest, it will be their decision," the powerful AICC general secretary said.

He said he is "more than satisfied" with his long political career as a five-time Lok Sabha MP, three-time Union minister and ten-year Rajasthan chief minister.

"No post is a priority for me. I am more than satisfied with my political innings and the question before me now is how to bring the party in power in Rajasthan first and then in the country under the leadership of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. I will be ready for any role I am assigned," he said when asked if he is in the race for chief ministership should Congress come to power.

Asked whether the fact that all top state leaders contesting elections in Rajasthan will heat up the power race in the party after polls, Gehlot said the "issue of CM will be amicably resolved by the party high command which will take a decision based on party interest, public and MLAs' sentiments."

"There will be no problem. The high command's decision will be acceptable to all... Whatever they decide will be acceptable to all," he said, accusing the BJP of raising the CM issue for political reasons.

On whether there will be a new CM face other than him or Pilot, Gehlot said it will be the party high command's decision.

The two-term ex-CM of Rajasthan also said the decision on who the next CM will be will not be hampered by the presence of the entire top state brass in elections.

Asked why all state leaders were contesting in Rajasthan, unlike in Madhya Pradesh, he said it is a decision which the Congress president has taken, and he welcomed it.

"The politics in Rajasthan is different and the Congress leadership believes that all the leaders who wish to contest should do so," Gehlot said.

"I want the party's flag to fly high both in Rajasthan and across the country, as the present atmosphere is dangerous for the country and people want the Congress to return to power both in the state and at the Centre."

The AICC general secretary said the party has a tradition of not declaring its CM candidate in advance and that tradition will be respected.

He alleged that it was a BJP conspiracy to raise such an issue to create divisions within the Congress and the people understand this.

"The BJP does not have any right to ask who the Congress CM face is, as they themselves did not have a state party chief for 75 days," Gehlot said.

On giving tickets to parachute candidates, he said former BJP leader Manvendra Singh has been fielded against CM Vasundhara Raje based on a political strategy and is an exception.

The Congress leader, who served thrice as Union minister under Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Narasimha Rao, is pitted with PCC chief Sachin Pilot for the post of chief minister and both are contesting the state election.

While Gehlot is a sitting MLA from Sardarpura, Pilot is contesting the state poll for the first time from Tonk. Pilot has been a former MP from Dausa and then from Ajmer.

 
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Congress stalwart from Rajasthan and former state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Sunday he did not hold any position in priority and will abide by the decision the party high command takes on the issue of CM post.

Congress stalwart from Rajasthan and former state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Sunday he did not hold any position in priority and will abide by the decision the party high command takes on the issue of CM post. Not ruling himself out of the race for the top post in the state should Congress win, Gehlot said he would be open to any role Congress president Rahul Gandhi assigns him in the interest of the party. "I am ready for whatever role Congress president gives me. I am against any kind of lobbying for any position. I have never lobbied even when I faced dissidence as CM. If they (the high command) send me to Rajasthan in party interest, it will be their decision," the powerful AICC general secretary said. He said he is "more than satisfied" with his long political career as a five-time Lok Sabha MP, three-time Union minister and ten-year Rajasthan chief minister. "No post is a priority for me. I am more than satisfied with my political innings and the question before me now is how to bring the party in power in Rajasthan first and then in the country under the leadership of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. I will be ready for any role I am assigned," he said when asked if he is in the race for chief ministership should Congress come to power. Asked whether the fact that all top state leaders contesting elections in Rajasthan will heat up the power race in the party after polls, Gehlot said the "issue of CM will be amicably resolved by the party high command which will take a decision based on party interest, public and MLAs' sentiments." "There will be no problem. The high command's decision will be acceptable to all... Whatever they decide will be acceptable to all," he said, accusing the BJP of raising the CM issue for political reasons. On whether there will be a new CM face other than him or Pilot, Gehlot said it will be the party high command's decision. The two-term ex-CM of Rajasthan also said the decision on who the next CM will be will not be hampered by the presence of the entire top state brass in elections. Asked why all state leaders were contesting in Rajasthan, unlike in Madhya Pradesh, he said it is a decision which the Congress president has taken, and he welcomed it. "The politics in Rajasthan is different and the Congress leadership believes that all the leaders who wish to contest should do so," Gehlot said. "I want the party's flag to fly high both in Rajasthan and across the country, as the present atmosphere is dangerous for the country and people want the Congress to return to power both in the state and at the Centre." The AICC general secretary said the party has a tradition of not declaring its CM candidate in advance and that tradition will be respected. He alleged that it was a BJP conspiracy to raise such an issue to create divisions within the Congress and the people understand this. "The BJP does not have any right to ask who the Congress CM face is, as they themselves did not have a state party chief for 75 days," Gehlot said. On giving tickets to parachute candidates, he said former BJP leader Manvendra Singh has been fielded against CM Vasundhara Raje based on a political strategy and is an exception. The Congress leader, who served thrice as Union minister under Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Narasimha Rao, is pitted with PCC chief Sachin Pilot for the post of chief minister and both are contesting the state election. While Gehlot is a sitting MLA from Sardarpura, Pilot is contesting the state poll for the first time from Tonk. Pilot has been a former MP from Dausa and then from Ajmer.

Madhya Pradesh polls: Will go by Rahul Gandhi's decision on CM, says Ashok Gehlot 

Mizo National Front (MNF) general secretary Lalruatkima Saturday blamed the Congress government in Mizoram for the state's underdevelopment and corruption and said his party would ensure good governance and an accountable government, if voted to power in the coming Assembly polls.

The MNF is contesting all the 40 seats in the November 28 state Assembly election.

Lalruatkima told reporters that the present Congress government had never taken the moral responsibility for the bad road conditions in the state, the scarcity of essential commodities or the collapse of a bridge.

If voted to power, the MNF would combat corruption by establishing the Lokayukta and ensure good governance and a government that was accountable, transparent and responsive, he said.

The MLA accused the Congress government, Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and his younger brother Lal Thanzara, who had been looking after the Public Works portfolio for 10 years, for the extremely bad road conditions in the north-eastern state.

He alleged that the duo had awarded contracts only to a few non-tribal contractors, who were overburdened with work orders, which caused a delay in the completion of works.

The "horrible" condition of the roads in the state was a result of a quid pro quo (a favour or advantage granted in return for something) nexus between Lal Thanhawla, Lal Thanzara and the non-tribal contractors, Lalruatkima alleged.

"The government awarded contracts worth Rs 122.52 crore to the Sunshine Overseas Corporation during 2010-2015, the company in which Lal Thanzara had a 21.6 per cent share," he said.

A bailey bridge over the Tuirini river between Sesawng and Khawruhlian had collapsed in February, killing one person and injuring others. Under pressure from the opposition parties, Lal Thanzara had owned the moral responsibility for it and the MNF had demanded his resignation for alleged negligence of duty.

Lalruatkima said decentralisation of power would be among the topmost priorities for the MNF if it came to power.

Other focus areas would be health and education, the MNF leader said, adding that his party would introduce a system of annual recruitment of doctors, teachers and nurses through the state Public Service Commission as was being done for the state civil and police services.

The poll results will be announced on December 11.

Mizo National Front (MNF) general secretary Lalruatkima Saturday blamed the Congress government in Mizoram for the state's underdevelopment and corruption and said his party would ensure good governance and an accountable government, if voted to power in the coming Assembly polls.

Mizo National Front (MNF) general secretary Lalruatkima Saturday blamed the Congress government in Mizoram for the state's underdevelopment and corruption and said his party would ensure good governance and an accountable government, if voted to power in the coming Assembly polls. The MNF is contesting all the 40 seats in the November 28 state Assembly election. Lalruatkima told reporters that the present Congress government had never taken the moral responsibility for the bad road conditions in the state, the scarcity of essential commodities or the collapse of a bridge. If voted to power, the MNF would combat corruption by establishing the Lokayukta and ensure good governance and a government that was accountable, transparent and responsive, he said. The MLA accused the Congress government, Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and his younger brother Lal Thanzara, who had been looking after the Public Works portfolio for 10 years, for the extremely bad road conditions in the north-eastern state. He alleged that the duo had awarded contracts only to a few non-tribal contractors, who were overburdened with work orders, which caused a delay in the completion of works. The "horrible" condition of the roads in the state was a result of a quid pro quo (a favour or advantage granted in return for something) nexus between Lal Thanhawla, Lal Thanzara and the non-tribal contractors, Lalruatkima alleged. "The government awarded contracts worth Rs 122.52 crore to the Sunshine Overseas Corporation during 2010-2015, the company in which Lal Thanzara had a 21.6 per cent share," he said. A bailey bridge over the Tuirini river between Sesawng and Khawruhlian had collapsed in February, killing one person and injuring others. Under pressure from the opposition parties, Lal Thanzara had owned the moral responsibility for it and the MNF had demanded his resignation for alleged negligence of duty. Lalruatkima said decentralisation of power would be among the topmost priorities for the MNF if it came to power. Other focus areas would be health and education, the MNF leader said, adding that his party would introduce a system of annual recruitment of doctors, teachers and nurses through the state Public Service Commission as was being done for the state civil and police services. The poll results will be announced on December 11.

MNF blames Congress govt for underdevelopment, corruption in Mizoram

Senior Congress leader M Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh M Chenna Reddy, Saturday expressed disappointment over not being given a ticket for the December 7 Telangana assembly polls, saying the reason given was that he would lose.

Reddy, a former Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), traditionally contests from Sanatnagar in Hyderabad, but the seat has been alloted to TDP as part of seat-sharing among partners of the "grand alliance" for the polls.

An angry Reddy hit out at Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president N Uttam Kumar Reddy for denying him the seat.

"It's not the question of an individual seat that was denied to me. The reasons given for that is something which is very upsetting, as propagated by Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy," he told PTI.

"It was very forcefully argued by him that I will lose. That is the reason why he wants to leave it to TDP. The basis for that is supposed to be his survey," he said.

However, an online poll by a TV channel gave him 68 per cent winning chances against his TRS rival, he said.

The denial of ticket to him sends out a wrong message to the rank and file that loyalty and contributions have no value and "all that matters is the personal agendas of these leaders", Reddy said.

He also alleged that the PCC leadership had misled the high command.

"I don't blame the Congress high command. Because of the constraint of time, elections in various states and the rallies and all that the Congress president is attending. Four-five states are going for polls," he said.

Reddy said he got a call from senior party leaders in Delhi and that he was on the way to airport to leave for the national capital.

Meanwhile, several other aspirants who failed to get tickets voiced their protest and some of them said they would form a front to contest the elections.

Congress sources said that a committee of party leaders would speak to those who were denied tickets.

Senior Congress leader M Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh M Chenna Reddy, Saturday expressed disappointment over not being given a ticket for the December 7 Telangana assembly polls, saying the reason given was that he would lose.

Senior Congress leader M Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh M Chenna Reddy, Saturday expressed disappointment over not being given a ticket for the December 7 Telangana assembly polls, saying the reason given was that he would lose. Reddy, a former Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), traditionally contests from Sanatnagar in Hyderabad, but the seat has been alloted to TDP as part of seat-sharing among partners of the "grand alliance" for the polls. An angry Reddy hit out at Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president N Uttam Kumar Reddy for denying him the seat. "It's not the question of an individual seat that was denied to me. The reasons given for that is something which is very upsetting, as propagated by Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy," he told PTI. "It was very forcefully argued by him that I will lose. That is the reason why he wants to leave it to TDP. The basis for that is supposed to be his survey," he said. However, an online poll by a TV channel gave him 68 per cent winning chances against his TRS rival, he said. The denial of ticket to him sends out a wrong message to the rank and file that loyalty and contributions have no value and "all that matters is the personal agendas of these leaders", Reddy said. He also alleged that the PCC leadership had misled the high command. "I don't blame the Congress high command. Because of the constraint of time, elections in various states and the rallies and all that the Congress president is attending. Four-five states are going for polls," he said. Reddy said he got a call from senior party leaders in Delhi and that he was on the way to airport to leave for the national capital. Meanwhile, several other aspirants who failed to get tickets voiced their protest and some of them said they would form a front to contest the elections. Congress sources said that a committee of party leaders would speak to those who were denied tickets.

Telangana polls: Son of former Andhra Pradesh CM miffed at being denied ticket

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised to waive farm loans in Chhattisgarh within 10 days of assuming power in the state and said the money for it would come from the "likes of" Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Anil Ambani.

Stepping up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation ahead of the second and final phase of the Chhattisgarh polls, Gandhi alleged that Modi made the honest people suffer through the 2016 exercise, but spared the rich.

Addressing a poll rally in Koriya district, he alleged that the prime minister had waived loans worth Rs 3.5 lakh crore of a few rich people, but not those of the poor farmers.

"As soon as the Congress forms the government here, Modiji, you count 10 days. The Congress will waive the loans of each farmer in Chhattisgarh within 10 days," Gandhi said.

He claimed that BJP leaders used to question the previous Congress-led UPA government about the source of money for granting loan waiver.

"Modiji, the money for the loan waiver for Chhattisgarh's farmers will come from the likes of Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani...We will take their money and implement the loan waiver," the Congress chief said.

He alleged that "liquor baron Mallya fled the country with Rs 10,000 crore of the banks, while Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi fled with Rs 35,000 crore".

Addressing a rally in Ambikapur, Modi had Friday claimed that the Congress was "worried" because he took away all the money its "minions and friends" had stashed under their beds and in sacks in one stroke.

"Something rankles them (Congress) in such a way that they are still not able to sleep...No one sitting here is crying. Only one family is crying," Modi had said, while justifying demonetisation.

Gandhi reiterated his charge that the prime minister had helped industrialist Anil Ambani get Rs 30,000 crore in the "Rafale scam".

Turning to demonetisation, he said Modi "robbed the poor and the honest" through the exercise, which invalidated the old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 currency notes, and made them stand in queues to exchange the scrapped notes.

"Modiji had said he would fight against black money. He had (recently) said those who had stashed money in their houses and or kept it hidden under pillows were thieves and that he had taken action against them.

"I want to tell you (people) that you have not committed any theft. The person who has committed a theft is Narendra Modi. He made the honest people stand in queues. Have you ever seen those wearing suit-boot and crorepatis standing in queues (outside banks)?" Gandhi asked the crowd.

He said the Congress had always delivered on its promises, unlike the BJP.

"The intention of the Congress is very clear. It never makes false promises. In fact, you can listen to my speeches of the last 15 years. I never made false promises. Whatever I promised, I fulfilled it," Gandhi said.

He added that the previous UPA government had brought in measures like the Tribal Bill, the Right to Food Act, the Right To Information Act, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), the Land Acquisition Bill etc.

"You can check the records. On the contrary, Modi and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh did not fulfil the promises they had made to farmers," the Congress MP said.

Modi and Singh did not fulfil their promises like good returns to farmers on their produce and loan waiver, he said.

"In the last four-and-a-half years, Modiji has waived loans worth Rs 3.50 lakh crore of a few rich people, but he has not spoken about farm loan waiver. Similarly, Raman Singh has snatched the bonus of the farmers," Gandhi alleged.

He accused the prime minister of remaining "silent" on the "corruption charges" against Singh.

"Modi used to speak about corruption in his earlier speeches, but why has he not spoken about the corruption of Raman Singh?" the Congress chief asked.

He claimed that the names of Singh and his wife had surfaced in the alleged Rs 36,000-crore civil supply scam.

"A Rs 5,000-crore chit fund scam was also perpetrated in the state. His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in the Panama Papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," Gandhi said.

The final phase of polling for 72 seats will be held in Chhattisgarh on November 20. The first phase for 18 seats was held on November 12. The results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised to waive farm loans in Chhattisgarh within 10 days of assuming power in the state and said the money for it would come from the "likes of" Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Anil Ambani.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday promised to waive farm loans in Chhattisgarh within 10 days of assuming power in the state and said the money for it would come from the "likes of" Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Anil Ambani. Stepping up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation ahead of the second and final phase of the Chhattisgarh polls, Gandhi alleged that Modi made the honest people suffer through the 2016 exercise, but spared the rich. Addressing a poll rally in Koriya district, he alleged that the prime minister had waived loans worth Rs 3.5 lakh crore of a few rich people, but not those of the poor farmers. "As soon as the Congress forms the government here, Modiji, you count 10 days. The Congress will waive the loans of each farmer in Chhattisgarh within 10 days," Gandhi said. He claimed that BJP leaders used to question the previous Congress-led UPA government about the source of money for granting loan waiver. "Modiji, the money for the loan waiver for Chhattisgarh's farmers will come from the likes of Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani...We will take their money and implement the loan waiver," the Congress chief said. He alleged that "liquor baron Mallya fled the country with Rs 10,000 crore of the banks, while Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi fled with Rs 35,000 crore". Addressing a rally in Ambikapur, Modi had Friday claimed that the Congress was "worried" because he took away all the money its "minions and friends" had stashed under their beds and in sacks in one stroke. "Something rankles them (Congress) in such a way that they are still not able to sleep...No one sitting here is crying. Only one family is crying," Modi had said, while justifying demonetisation. Gandhi reiterated his charge that the prime minister had helped industrialist Anil Ambani get Rs 30,000 crore in the "Rafale scam". Turning to demonetisation, he said Modi "robbed the poor and the honest" through the exercise, which invalidated the old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 currency notes, and made them stand in queues to exchange the scrapped notes. "Modiji had said he would fight against black money. He had (recently) said those who had stashed money in their houses and or kept it hidden under pillows were thieves and that he had taken action against them. "I want to tell you (people) that you have not committed any theft. The person who has committed a theft is Narendra Modi. He made the honest people stand in queues. Have you ever seen those wearing suit-boot and crorepatis standing in queues (outside banks)?" Gandhi asked the crowd. He said the Congress had always delivered on its promises, unlike the BJP. "The intention of the Congress is very clear. It never makes false promises. In fact, you can listen to my speeches of the last 15 years. I never made false promises. Whatever I promised, I fulfilled it," Gandhi said. He added that the previous UPA government had brought in measures like the Tribal Bill, the Right to Food Act, the Right To Information Act, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), the Land Acquisition Bill etc. "You can check the records. On the contrary, Modi and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh did not fulfil the promises they had made to farmers," the Congress MP said. Modi and Singh did not fulfil their promises like good returns to farmers on their produce and loan waiver, he said. "In the last four-and-a-half years, Modiji has waived loans worth Rs 3.50 lakh crore of a few rich people, but he has not spoken about farm loan waiver. Similarly, Raman Singh has snatched the bonus of the farmers," Gandhi alleged. He accused the prime minister of remaining "silent" on the "corruption charges" against Singh. "Modi used to speak about corruption in his earlier speeches, but why has he not spoken about the corruption of Raman Singh?" the Congress chief asked. He claimed that the names of Singh and his wife had surfaced in the alleged Rs 36,000-crore civil supply scam. "A Rs 5,000-crore chit fund scam was also perpetrated in the state. His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in the Panama Papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," Gandhi said. The final phase of polling for 72 seats will be held in Chhattisgarh on November 20. The first phase for 18 seats was held on November 12. The results will be announced on December 11.

Money for farm loan waiver will come from Anil Ambani, Mallya, Nirav: Rahul

The Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" (comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS), Saturday announced four candidates for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana.

The four nominees include Kapilavai Dileep Kumar (Malkajgari in Hyderabad), Janardhan Reddy (Medak), Chindam Raj Kumar (Dubbak) and Bhavani Reddy (Siddipet).

The party is expected to contest eight seats as part of the alliance. The total number of assembly segments is 119.

TJS said in a media release that other details would be announced Sunday.

November 19 is the last date for filing nominations.

TJS is headed by M Kodandaram, who was the Chairman of the Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC). The JAC was in the forefront of the separate Telangana agitation.

It comprised several political parties, including TRS and various people's organisations.

However, differences cropped up between Kodandaram and the TRS after the latter assumed power in separate Telangana in 2014.

The Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" (comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS), Saturday announced four candidates for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana.

The Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" (comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS), Saturday announced four candidates for the December 7 assembly elections in Telangana. The four nominees include Kapilavai Dileep Kumar (Malkajgari in Hyderabad), Janardhan Reddy (Medak), Chindam Raj Kumar (Dubbak) and Bhavani Reddy (Siddipet). The party is expected to contest eight seats as part of the alliance. The total number of assembly segments is 119. TJS said in a media release that other details would be announced Sunday. November 19 is the last date for filing nominations. TJS is headed by M Kodandaram, who was the Chairman of the Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC). The JAC was in the forefront of the separate Telangana agitation. It comprised several political parties, including TRS and various people's organisations. However, differences cropped up between Kodandaram and the TRS after the latter assumed power in separate Telangana in 2014.

Telangana Jana Samiti announces 4 candidates for December 7 assembly elections

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it.

Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second and final phase of the polls, Shah accused the Congress of not doing anything for the state (part of Madhya Pradesh earlier) during its 55-year rule.

He also lavished praise on the incumbent Raman Singh government for turning Chhattisgarh into a developed state from a "bimaru" (ailing or backward) one.

"The Congress is known for making false promises. I say this several times, the Congress is such an ATM that if you insert a problem in it, you do not get development in response, but false promises," Shah told the gathering.

The BJP chief ridiculed the leaders of the Congress, including its president Rahul Gandhi, for "daydreaming" that the opposition party would form government in the state.

He alleged that the people of Chhattisgarh did not get adequate electricity under the Congress's watch and setting up a factory too was a pipe dream in the Naxal-hit state.

"The same Chhattisgarh is taking India forward in the production of aluminium, steel, cement. Chief Minister Raman Singh has done that job," Shah said.

The election to the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly is being held in two phases. The first phase of polling for 18 seats was held on November 12. The second round of voting for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20 and the results will be announced on December 11.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it.

BJP president Amit Shah launched a broadside against the Congress Saturday, terming the party an "ATM" that dispensed "false promises", instead of development, when problems were inserted in it. Addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second and final phase of the polls, Shah accused the Congress of not doing anything for the state (part of Madhya Pradesh earlier) during its 55-year rule. He also lavished praise on the incumbent Raman Singh government for turning Chhattisgarh into a developed state from a "bimaru" (ailing or backward) one. "The Congress is known for making false promises. I say this several times, the Congress is such an ATM that if you insert a problem in it, you do not get development in response, but false promises," Shah told the gathering. The BJP chief ridiculed the leaders of the Congress, including its president Rahul Gandhi, for "daydreaming" that the opposition party would form government in the state. He alleged that the people of Chhattisgarh did not get adequate electricity under the Congress's watch and setting up a factory too was a pipe dream in the Naxal-hit state. "The same Chhattisgarh is taking India forward in the production of aluminium, steel, cement. Chief Minister Raman Singh has done that job," Shah said. The election to the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly is being held in two phases. The first phase of polling for 18 seats was held on November 12. The second round of voting for the remaining 72 seats will be held on November 20 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Congress an ATM that dispenses false promises: Amit Shah

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner.

Bilaspur division, located in the centre of the state, comprises five districts -- Bilaspur, Mungeli, Korba, Janjgir-Champa and Raigarh.

While the first phase of polls in Chhattisgarh for 18 seats took place on November 12, the second phase for the remaining 72 constituencies will be held on November 20.

In the 2013 polls, the 24 seats in the five districts of Bilaspur division saw a neck-to-neck contest with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 12, the Congress 11 and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) winning one.

The BSP, which won Jaijaipur seat in the division, however, managed to come second in two constituencies and third in seven.

With the BSP tying up with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), a three-way fight between the BJP, Congress and the Jogi-led alliance is very much on the cards.

While the BSP is contesting 10 of the 24 seats in Bilaspur division, the JCC(J) has fielded candidates on the rest.

"People are fed up with the politics of the BJP and the Congress in the state and this time they are considering our alliance as an option to bring change," BSP's state chief Omprakash Batchpayi told PTI.

"The alliance is in a good position in Bilaspur division and will win more than 12 segments there," he said confidently.

The Mayawati-led party had got 4.27 per cent of votes in the 2013 Assembly polls, a decrease from the 6.11 per cent it garnered in the 2008 polls.

On the other hand, Jogi's new outfit is seeking political space in the state, and Bilaspur region, with a sizable presence of people from the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, is expected to help the new party.

Of the 24 seats, five are reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati have campaigned in the region, a reflection of its significance.

The opposition Congress, which was trying to forge an alliance with the BSP, believes the Jogi-led alliance will not affect its chances.

State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said, "Jogi is going to lose the election from Marwahi. There is no question of the alliance affecting the prospects of the Congress. We are confident of improving our tally and win more seats in this division."

Ajit Jogi is contesting from Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces, Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively.

The Congress has fielded 10 new faces in this division this time.

Marwahi, Kota, Akaltara, Jaijaipur, Pamgarh, Lormi, Bilha, Chandrapur, Sarangarh and Shakti constituencies are among keenly watched seats from Bilaspur division during the second phase of voting on November 20.

The Kota seat will see a three-cornered contest between incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh of the Congress and BJP's Kashi Sahu.

Similarly, in Akaltara seat, Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress).

In Lormi Seat, former MLA Dharmjeet Singh (JCC-C) has been pitted against incumbent MLA and BJP candidate Tokhan Sahu and Congress's Shatrughan Chandrakar.

The lone BSP MLA Keshav Chandra, who has been renominated from Jaijaipur, is pitted against BJP's Kailash Sahu and Congress' Anil Chandra.

Bilaspur is a prominent seat where a close contest is expected between state minister Amar Agrawal of BJP and Congress' Shailesh Pandey.

Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the ruling BJP believes the Mayawati-Jogi alliance would impact the Congress' prospects in the election.

"Jogi's party would affect Congress votes, not that of the BJP in this election. We have set a target of winning 65 seats in Chhattisgarh, of which, more than 15 will be from Bilaspur division," BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Shrivastav said.&nbsp;

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner.

Bilaspur division with 24 Assembly seats, the highest among the five divisions in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the winner. Bilaspur division, located in the centre of the state, comprises five districts -- Bilaspur, Mungeli, Korba, Janjgir-Champa and Raigarh. While the first phase of polls in Chhattisgarh for 18 seats took place on November 12, the second phase for the remaining 72 constituencies will be held on November 20. In the 2013 polls, the 24 seats in the five districts of Bilaspur division saw a neck-to-neck contest with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 12, the Congress 11 and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) winning one. The BSP, which won Jaijaipur seat in the division, however, managed to come second in two constituencies and third in seven. With the BSP tying up with former chief minister Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), a three-way fight between the BJP, Congress and the Jogi-led alliance is very much on the cards. While the BSP is contesting 10 of the 24 seats in Bilaspur division, the JCC(J) has fielded candidates on the rest. "People are fed up with the politics of the BJP and the Congress in the state and this time they are considering our alliance as an option to bring change," BSP's state chief Omprakash Batchpayi told PTI. "The alliance is in a good position in Bilaspur division and will win more than 12 segments there," he said confidently. The Mayawati-led party had got 4.27 per cent of votes in the 2013 Assembly polls, a decrease from the 6.11 per cent it garnered in the 2008 polls. On the other hand, Jogi's new outfit is seeking political space in the state, and Bilaspur region, with a sizable presence of people from the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, is expected to help the new party. Of the 24 seats, five are reserved for the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category and four for the Scheduled Caste (SC). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BSP supremo Mayawati have campaigned in the region, a reflection of its significance. The opposition Congress, which was trying to forge an alliance with the BSP, believes the Jogi-led alliance will not affect its chances. State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said, "Jogi is going to lose the election from Marwahi. There is no question of the alliance affecting the prospects of the Congress. We are confident of improving our tally and win more seats in this division." Ajit Jogi is contesting from Marwahi segment where the BJP and the Congress have fielded new faces, Archana Porte and Gulab Singh, respectively. The Congress has fielded 10 new faces in this division this time. Marwahi, Kota, Akaltara, Jaijaipur, Pamgarh, Lormi, Bilha, Chandrapur, Sarangarh and Shakti constituencies are among keenly watched seats from Bilaspur division during the second phase of voting on November 20. The Kota seat will see a three-cornered contest between incumbent MLA Renu Jogi (JCC-J), Vibhor Singh of the Congress and BJP's Kashi Sahu. Similarly, in Akaltara seat, Jogi's daughter-in-law Richa Jogi (BSP) is likely to give a tough fight to Saurabh Singh (BJP) and incumbent MLA Chunnilal Sahu (Congress). In Lormi Seat, former MLA Dharmjeet Singh (JCC-C) has been pitted against incumbent MLA and BJP candidate Tokhan Sahu and Congress's Shatrughan Chandrakar. The lone BSP MLA Keshav Chandra, who has been renominated from Jaijaipur, is pitted against BJP's Kailash Sahu and Congress' Anil Chandra. Bilaspur is a prominent seat where a close contest is expected between state minister Amar Agrawal of BJP and Congress' Shailesh Pandey. Eyeing a fourth consecutive term, the ruling BJP believes the Mayawati-Jogi alliance would impact the Congress' prospects in the election. "Jogi's party would affect Congress votes, not that of the BJP in this election. We have set a target of winning 65 seats in Chhattisgarh, of which, more than 15 will be from Bilaspur division," BJP state spokesperson Sanjay Shrivastav said.

Chhattisgarh polls: Bilaspur division, with 24 seats, could hold key

The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana.

Lakshmaiah, who also served as a minister in the Congress government in undivided Andhra Pradesh till 2014, had failed to find berth in the previous lists.

Lakshmaiah would contest from his Jangaon assembly segment. It was speculated that the Jangaon seat would go to Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the elections.

The alliance comprises Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS.

As part of the alliance, Congress would contest in 94 assembly segments (out of total 119). With the release of the third list, the party has so far declared candidates for 88 seats.

Meanwhile, TDP has declared Kuna Venkatesh Goud as its nominee from Sanathnagar in Hyderabad. The announcement is bad news for Congress leader Marri Sasidhar Reddy who represented the constituency earlier.

Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister Marri Chenna Reddy, is a key Congress leader in Telangana. He was Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) during UPA regime at the Centre.

The process of filing nominations began Monday with the Election Commission issuing a notification in this regard.

The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana.

The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana. Lakshmaiah, who also served as a minister in the Congress government in undivided Andhra Pradesh till 2014, had failed to find berth in the previous lists. Lakshmaiah would contest from his Jangaon assembly segment. It was speculated that the Jangaon seat would go to Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the elections. The alliance comprises Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS. As part of the alliance, Congress would contest in 94 assembly segments (out of total 119). With the release of the third list, the party has so far declared candidates for 88 seats. Meanwhile, TDP has declared Kuna Venkatesh Goud as its nominee from Sanathnagar in Hyderabad. The announcement is bad news for Congress leader Marri Sasidhar Reddy who represented the constituency earlier. Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister Marri Chenna Reddy, is a key Congress leader in Telangana. He was Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) during UPA regime at the Centre. The process of filing nominations began Monday with the Election Commission issuing a notification in this regard.

Congress releases third list for Telangana Assembly polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule.

"It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it.&nbsp;

"What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added.

Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing.

"Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit.

"Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said.

"What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government.

Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character".

Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh."

Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister.

Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now.

"Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped.

Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man.

Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016.

"They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said.

He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system.

"Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said.

Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities.

The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule. "It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it. "What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added. Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing. "Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit. "Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said. "What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government. Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character". Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh." Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister. Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now. "Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped. Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man. Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016. "They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said. He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system. "Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said. Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities. The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.

Let there be contest to assess performance of 'family' and 'chaiwala': PM Modi