Government plans Rs. 6 lakhs crore spectrum auction. In 5G trials, Government to priorities security. This auction to follow expert panel recommendations. Government priorities 5G over revenue. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: 5G Trials: India Plans Spectrum Auction

PM Avoids Pakistan's Airspace On His Way To Bishkek For SCO Summit. PM's Flight Route To Bishkek For SCO Summit Is Already Making Headlines. Amidst Strained Ties With Pakistan, Modi Avoids Pakistan's Airspace. What's The Government's Pakistan Strategy? How Will Modi Government 2.0 Approach The Pakistan Problem.

Gravitas: SCO Summit: What Is India's Strategy To Counter Pakistan?

Monsoon Session of Parliament will begin in 10 days from now. 39 government bills are pending in Rajya Sabha. Govt need opposition on board to pass these bills. Poor relations between BJP & Congress hurt parliament. NDA does not have the majority in Rajya Sabha. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Govt Reaches Out To Opposition

Home Minister Amit Shah Holds Meeting With Officials Over Delimitation Exercise In Jammu & Kashmir.

Gravitas: Government Mulls Delimitation In J&K: Home Minister Meets Officials

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him.

In a statement issued here, Naik, who fled India in 2016, said he was aware of the "pressure the Indian government was applying on the Interpol" to issue a red corner notice against him.

"It's part of an elaborate witch-hunt. But having verified with a few member countries, I can confirm that there is no red corner notice against me as of date," he claimed.

"One of the Indian newspapers seems to have jumped the gun and reported internal deliberations of the Indian government which, as a matter of fact, have been going on for over two years now," he said.

Naik said the Interpol had already cancelled a red corner notice against him once.

"And it's been one-and-a-half years since the government submitted a charge sheet and started applying pressure on the Interpol. But as things stand, I have no reason to believe that Interpol will succumb to any kind of undue pressure," he said.

Naik said to be in Malaysia at present, has been under investigation since 2016, when the Centre banned his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for five years.

He is being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on several charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The preacher, declared a proclaimed offender by a special NIA court here in June 2017, is accused of inciting youth to take up terror activities, giving hate speeches and promoting enmity between communities.

The NIA filed a charge sheet against Naik and others before a Mumbai court in October 2017.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him. In a statement issued here, Naik, who fled India in 2016, said he was aware of the "pressure the Indian government was applying on the Interpol" to issue a red corner notice against him. "It's part of an elaborate witch-hunt. But having verified with a few member countries, I can confirm that there is no red corner notice against me as of date," he claimed. "One of the Indian newspapers seems to have jumped the gun and reported internal deliberations of the Indian government which, as a matter of fact, have been going on for over two years now," he said. Naik said the Interpol had already cancelled a red corner notice against him once. "And it's been one-and-a-half years since the government submitted a charge sheet and started applying pressure on the Interpol. But as things stand, I have no reason to believe that Interpol will succumb to any kind of undue pressure," he said. Naik said to be in Malaysia at present, has been under investigation since 2016, when the Centre banned his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for five years. He is being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on several charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The preacher, declared a proclaimed offender by a special NIA court here in June 2017, is accused of inciting youth to take up terror activities, giving hate speeches and promoting enmity between communities. The NIA filed a charge sheet against Naik and others before a Mumbai court in October 2017.

Zakir Naik alleges political witch-hunt after Interpol takes up India's red corner notice against him

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.&nbsp;

While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help.

WION: What is the current situation in your country?

Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant.

WION: How India has helped you?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country.

WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, &nbsp;what will you say on that?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened.&nbsp;

WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor.

WION: How many countries have offered you help?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help.

WION: Number of people who died in the attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.&nbsp;

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people. While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help. WION: What is the current situation in your country? Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant. WION: How India has helped you? Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country. WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, what will you say on that? Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened. WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor. WION: How many countries have offered you help? Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help. WION: Number of people who died in the attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.

Indian government has been very helpful: Sri Lanka's Deputy Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardene to WION

Govt steps in to rescue Jet Airways, asks state-run banks to help

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters.

The finance ministry has in the past year sought regular updates from the banks, led by State Bank of India (SBI), on Jet's financial health, the people said. In recent months, the banks have provided weekly updates about a revival plan and also sought government advice, the people added.

"Top officials at the finance ministry seek regular updates on the issue," said an official at one of Jet's lenders, who did not want to be identified as discussions are private.

Details of the discussion between the finance ministry and bankers on bailing out Jet have not been previously reported.

New Delhi has urged state-run banks to convert debt into equity and take a stake in Jet in a rare move in India to use taxpayer money to save a struggling private-sector company from bankruptcy. The two people plus one more source, however, said this would be "transitory" and lenders could sell the stakes once Jet revives.

The government has also nudged its 49 per cent-owned National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) - created to invest in stalled and new infrastructure projects - to buy a stake in Jet, a separate government source said.

Saddled with more than US $1 billion of debt, Jet is struggling to stay aloft. It has delayed payments to banks, suppliers, employees and aircraft lessors - some of which have begun terminating lease deals.

The world's biggest democracy is gearing up for an election next month and its booming aviation sector, which employs close to a million people, has been one of the job-creation success stories that Modi can point to as he seeks a second term.

It is crucial for India that Jet revives as the fall of its second-largest airline could have "disastrous consequences for the investment climate" in the sector, a top government official said.

The official is concerned that if Jet collapses it could drive up airfare in a fast-growing market, wiping out efforts to bring low-cost air travel to India's hinterland.

A chaotic end could also make it more difficult for the government to sell a stake in Air India, at least in the short run. Last year, it failed to sell part of its stake in the indebted carrier which currently relies on taxpayer money.

If the government's plan for Jet succeeds, then state-run banks including SBI and Punjab National Bank (PNB) as well as NIIF would together own at least a third of the airline until they find a new buyer.

Currently, Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways is Jet's largest shareholder with a 24 per cent stake.

India's finance ministry, SBI, PNB and Jet Airways did not respond to requests for comment.

KINGFISHER'S COLLAPSE

Most companies in Jet's financial condition would be placed by creditors into India's new bankruptcy process, two bankers said. However, memories of the chaos sparked by Kingfisher Airlines's demise in 2012 have prompted the government to seek a more sober road to rescue, they said.

Kingfisher's bankruptcy caused job losses, lessors lost millions of dollars and banks took massive writedowns.

Putting what is essentially a services provider like Jet through the bankruptcy process would diminish its value because it owns no major assets, unlike a manufacturing company, as most of its planes are leased, said another government official.

If it is pushed into bankruptcy and lessors start pulling even more planes out of service, there would be nothing left for any potential investors, the official said. Already 41 planes have been grounded by lessors in the past three months, leading to flight cancellations.

While on the surface Jet's future still hangs in the balance with its main shareholder Etihad at loggerheads over the final terms of any deal, behind-the-scenes support from the government means there is likely to be a bailout.

But there are no easy options, one of the sources said, adding that the lenders do not have the expertise to run an airline so they have to decide what to do once they convert their debt into equity.

New Delhi is also backing a proposal for Jet's founder and Chairman Naresh Goyal to step down if it means saving the airline, another official said.

"Saving Jet is not equivalent to saving Goyal," the official said.

RISING AIRFARE

Jet, with its fleet of 119 planes, once controlled a sixth of India's domestic aviation market. The 25-year-old airline is also one of only two full-service carriers that flies to international destinations. The other is Air India.

The government ideally wants four to six major airlines to ensure fares are competitive and passengers have greater choice, according to the top government source.

India plans to build 100 new airports costing about $60 billion which would need a steady stream of flights to sustain them, and that is possible only if there are enough airlines, a separate official said.

"The investment in these airports will solely depend on operators willing to have regular flights at affordable prices and one operator going bankrupt does not help," he said.

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters.

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters. The finance ministry has in the past year sought regular updates from the banks, led by State Bank of India (SBI), on Jet's financial health, the people said. In recent months, the banks have provided weekly updates about a revival plan and also sought government advice, the people added. "Top officials at the finance ministry seek regular updates on the issue," said an official at one of Jet's lenders, who did not want to be identified as discussions are private. Details of the discussion between the finance ministry and bankers on bailing out Jet have not been previously reported. New Delhi has urged state-run banks to convert debt into equity and take a stake in Jet in a rare move in India to use taxpayer money to save a struggling private-sector company from bankruptcy. The two people plus one more source, however, said this would be "transitory" and lenders could sell the stakes once Jet revives. The government has also nudged its 49 per cent-owned National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) - created to invest in stalled and new infrastructure projects - to buy a stake in Jet, a separate government source said. Saddled with more than US $1 billion of debt, Jet is struggling to stay aloft. It has delayed payments to banks, suppliers, employees and aircraft lessors - some of which have begun terminating lease deals. The world's biggest democracy is gearing up for an election next month and its booming aviation sector, which employs close to a million people, has been one of the job-creation success stories that Modi can point to as he seeks a second term. It is crucial for India that Jet revives as the fall of its second-largest airline could have "disastrous consequences for the investment climate" in the sector, a top government official said. The official is concerned that if Jet collapses it could drive up airfare in a fast-growing market, wiping out efforts to bring low-cost air travel to India's hinterland. A chaotic end could also make it more difficult for the government to sell a stake in Air India, at least in the short run. Last year, it failed to sell part of its stake in the indebted carrier which currently relies on taxpayer money. If the government's plan for Jet succeeds, then state-run banks including SBI and Punjab National Bank (PNB) as well as NIIF would together own at least a third of the airline until they find a new buyer. Currently, Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways is Jet's largest shareholder with a 24 per cent stake. India's finance ministry, SBI, PNB and Jet Airways did not respond to requests for comment. KINGFISHER'S COLLAPSE Most companies in Jet's financial condition would be placed by creditors into India's new bankruptcy process, two bankers said. However, memories of the chaos sparked by Kingfisher Airlines's demise in 2012 have prompted the government to seek a more sober road to rescue, they said. Kingfisher's bankruptcy caused job losses, lessors lost millions of dollars and banks took massive writedowns. Putting what is essentially a services provider like Jet through the bankruptcy process would diminish its value because it owns no major assets, unlike a manufacturing company, as most of its planes are leased, said another government official. If it is pushed into bankruptcy and lessors start pulling even more planes out of service, there would be nothing left for any potential investors, the official said. Already 41 planes have been grounded by lessors in the past three months, leading to flight cancellations. While on the surface Jet's future still hangs in the balance with its main shareholder Etihad at loggerheads over the final terms of any deal, behind-the-scenes support from the government means there is likely to be a bailout. But there are no easy options, one of the sources said, adding that the lenders do not have the expertise to run an airline so they have to decide what to do once they convert their debt into equity. New Delhi is also backing a proposal for Jet's founder and Chairman Naresh Goyal to step down if it means saving the airline, another official said. "Saving Jet is not equivalent to saving Goyal," the official said. RISING AIRFARE Jet, with its fleet of 119 planes, once controlled a sixth of India's domestic aviation market. The 25-year-old airline is also one of only two full-service carriers that flies to international destinations. The other is Air India. The government ideally wants four to six major airlines to ensure fares are competitive and passengers have greater choice, according to the top government source. India plans to build 100 new airports costing about $60 billion which would need a steady stream of flights to sustain them, and that is possible only if there are enough airlines, a separate official said. "The investment in these airports will solely depend on operators willing to have regular flights at affordable prices and one operator going bankrupt does not help," he said.

Government asked banks to save Jet Airways, avoid bankruptcy: Sources

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-options-available-if-there-is-another-terrorist-strike-official-sources-201309">All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources</a>

Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike.&nbsp;

The sources told the news agency PTI that India will insist on "concrete steps" by Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure on its soil and that since Balakot, India has been "trying to build maximum pressure on Pakistan".&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-puts-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhars-son-brother-under-preventive-detention-201325">Pakistan arrests Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's brother</a>

Pakistan has arrested the brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi said Tuesday at a press conference that Mufti Abdur Rauf had been arrested.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-says-it-stopped-indian-submarine-from-entering-its-waters-201282">Pakistan says it stopped Indian submarine from entering its waters</a>

Pakistan has stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters, the navy said Tuesday, as tensions continue to run high between the nuclear-armed foes.

The development came days after a rare aerial dogfight between India and Pakistan over the disputed territory of Kashmir ignited fears of an all-out conflict, with world powers rushing to urge restraint.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-foreign-minister-jeremy-hunt-says-reasonably-positive-signs-from-eu-over-brexit-deal-changes-201281">UK Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt says 'reasonably positive' signs from EU over Brexit deal changes</a>

Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Tuesday the European Union was giving "reasonably positive" signals about giving Britain changes to Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal which could help it get parliamentary backing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-score-india-all-set-to-face-visitors-australia-in-2nd-odi-201250">Live score: Finch, Khawaja fall in quick succession, Australia 83/2 after 15.3 overs</a>

India all-out for 250 in 48.2 overs. India captain Virat Kohli top-scored with 116 off 120 balls while Vijay Shankar made 46 of 41.

All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike.

All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike. The sources told the news agency PTI that India will insist on "concrete steps" by Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure on its soil and that since Balakot, India has been "trying to build maximum pressure on Pakistan". Pakistan arrests Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's brother Pakistan has arrested the brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi said Tuesday at a press conference that Mufti Abdur Rauf had been arrested. Pakistan says it stopped Indian submarine from entering its waters Pakistan has stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters, the navy said Tuesday, as tensions continue to run high between the nuclear-armed foes. The development came days after a rare aerial dogfight between India and Pakistan over the disputed territory of Kashmir ignited fears of an all-out conflict, with world powers rushing to urge restraint. UK Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt says 'reasonably positive' signs from EU over Brexit deal changes Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Tuesday the European Union was giving "reasonably positive" signals about giving Britain changes to Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal which could help it get parliamentary backing. Live score: Finch, Khawaja fall in quick succession, Australia 83/2 after 15.3 overs India all-out for 250 in 48.2 overs. India captain Virat Kohli top-scored with 116 off 120 balls while Vijay Shankar made 46 of 41.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Indian government reacts to statement released by OIC

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhance-security-government-issues-alert-to-at-all-airports-airlines-200723">Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines</a>

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-india-vs-australia-1st-odi-at-rajiv-gandhi-international-stadium-200657">Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs</a>

Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell.&nbsp;

It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli comes to the crease.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-wing-commander-abhinandan-he-is-currently-undergoing-cooling-process-200730">Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">rocket</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">, is en route to International Space Station</a>

NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-services-restored-train-to-run-from-india-on-sunday-railways-200726">Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday</a>

The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI.

The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments. Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell. It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side. Skipper Kohli comes to the crease. Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from rocket, is en route to International Space Station NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break. Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI. The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Fineprint: Indian govt convenes all-party meet, says it's an anti-terror operation

The finance ministry has sought from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Rs 27,380 crore that was withheld by the central bank <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/govt-wants-policy-on-how-much-cash-reserve-rbi-should-have-board-member-s-gurumurthy-177590">towards risks and reserves</a> in previous years, sources have said.

The RBI had retained Rs 13,190 crore towards risks and reserves in 2016-17. It increased to Rs 14,190 crore in 2017-18. Together, the&nbsp;retained amount is Rs 27,380 crore.

The ministry has requested the RBI to provide an interim surplus for the current fiscal on the analogy of the previous financial year and transfer the amount withheld from the surplus of 2016-17 and 2017-18, sources said.

Earlier this month, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had said the government expects Rs 28,000 crore from the RBI as interim dividend during the current fiscal.

The RBI, which follows July-June financial year, has already transferred Rs 40,000 crore in the current fiscal.

If the central board of the RBI approves the transfer of Rs 28,000 crore requested by the government as interim dividend for the current fiscal, the total surplus transfer by the central bank would be Rs 68,000 crore in 2018-19.

According to sources, the government expects Rs 69,000 crore dividend in the next financial year.

The government has projected to mobilise Rs 82,911.56 crore as dividend or surplus from the RBI, nationalised banks and financial institutions during 2019-20.

After making provision for bad and doubtful debts, depreciation in assets, contribution to staff and superannuation fund and for all matters for which the provision is to be made by or under the Act or which are usually provided by bankers, the balance of the profits shall be paid to the central government, as per the RBI Act.

The finance ministry has sought from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Rs 27,380 crore that was withheld by the central bank towards risks and reserves in previous years, sources have said.

The finance ministry has sought from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Rs 27,380 crore that was withheld by the central bank towards risks and reserves in previous years, sources have said. The RBI had retained Rs 13,190 crore towards risks and reserves in 2016-17. It increased to Rs 14,190 crore in 2017-18. Together, the retained amount is Rs 27,380 crore. The ministry has requested the RBI to provide an interim surplus for the current fiscal on the analogy of the previous financial year and transfer the amount withheld from the surplus of 2016-17 and 2017-18, sources said. Earlier this month, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had said the government expects Rs 28,000 crore from the RBI as interim dividend during the current fiscal. The RBI, which follows July-June financial year, has already transferred Rs 40,000 crore in the current fiscal. If the central board of the RBI approves the transfer of Rs 28,000 crore requested by the government as interim dividend for the current fiscal, the total surplus transfer by the central bank would be Rs 68,000 crore in 2018-19. According to sources, the government expects Rs 69,000 crore dividend in the next financial year. The government has projected to mobilise Rs 82,911.56 crore as dividend or surplus from the RBI, nationalised banks and financial institutions during 2019-20. After making provision for bad and doubtful debts, depreciation in assets, contribution to staff and superannuation fund and for all matters for which the provision is to be made by or under the Act or which are usually provided by bankers, the balance of the profits shall be paid to the central government, as per the RBI Act.

Government asks Reserve Bank of India for Rs 27,380 crore: Sources

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345">Centre tells </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345">Bengal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345"> government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief</a>

The Centre has told the West Bengal government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar.&nbsp;

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs told the Bengal government Tuesday that Kumar had sat in on the dharna with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee — and that that was in contravention of the All India Services (Conduct) rules, 1968 and All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yogi-adityanath-holds-rally-in-purulia-after-reaching-west-bengal-by-road-slams-mamata-for-protecting-corrupt-officer-195333">Nothing more shameful than a CM sitting on dharna: Yogi Adityanath in Bengal</a>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath managed to reach Purulia, West Bengal from Bokaro, Jharkhand by road today after being denied permission to enter the state via a helicopter.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-expects-963-billion-in-dividend-from-rbi-in-upcoming-financial-year-195311">Government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-expects-963-billion-in-dividend-from-rbi-in-upcoming-financial-year-195311"> expects 690 billion rupees in dividend from RBI </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-expects-963-billion-in-dividend-from-rbi-in-upcoming-financial-year-195311">in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-expects-963-billion-in-dividend-from-rbi-in-upcoming-financial-year-195311">coming</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-expects-963-billion-in-dividend-from-rbi-in-upcoming-financial-year-195311"> financial year</a>

The Indian government expects the central bank to pay a dividend of 690 billion rupees ($9.63 billion) in the next financial year beginning April 2019, a senior finance ministry source, who requested anonymity, told reporters on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-holds-historic-public-mass-in-uae-195298">Francis holds first mass by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-holds-historic-public-mass-in-uae-195298">pope</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-holds-historic-public-mass-in-uae-195298"> on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-holds-historic-public-mass-in-uae-195298">Arabian</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-holds-historic-public-mass-in-uae-195298"> peninsula</a>

Pope Francis held a historic public mass for an estimated 170,000 Catholics at a stadium in the capital of the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, capping the first ever papal visit to the Gulf where Islam was born.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/economy-is-where-you-have-to-concentrate-chandrababu-naidu-on-oppositions-plan-for-2019-elections-195300">Economy</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/economy-is-where-you-have-to-concentrate-chandrababu-naidu-on-oppositions-plan-for-2019-elections-195300"> is where you have to concentrate: Chandrababu Naidu on Opposition’s plan for 2019 elections</a>

An alliance of regional parties in India is working on a combined economic plan, one of its leaders said, in the latest sign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces an increasingly united opposition in the upcoming general election.

Centre tells Bengal government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief The Centre has told the West Bengal government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar.

Centre tells Bengal government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief The Centre has told the West Bengal government to begin disciplinary proceedings against Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs told the Bengal government Tuesday that Kumar had sat in on the dharna with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee — and that that was in contravention of the All India Services (Conduct) rules, 1968 and All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. Nothing more shameful than a CM sitting on dharna: Yogi Adityanath in Bengal Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath managed to reach Purulia, West Bengal from Bokaro, Jharkhand by road today after being denied permission to enter the state via a helicopter. Government expects 690 billion rupees in dividend from RBI in coming financial year The Indian government expects the central bank to pay a dividend of 690 billion rupees ($9.63 billion) in the next financial year beginning April 2019, a senior finance ministry source, who requested anonymity, told reporters on Tuesday. Francis holds first mass by pope on Arabian peninsula Pope Francis held a historic public mass for an estimated 170,000 Catholics at a stadium in the capital of the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, capping the first ever papal visit to the Gulf where Islam was born. Economy is where you have to concentrate: Chandrababu Naidu on Opposition’s plan for 2019 elections An alliance of regional parties in India is working on a combined economic plan, one of its leaders said, in the latest sign that Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces an increasingly united opposition in the upcoming general election.

Indian government asks America to deport Dawood Ibrahim’s nephew

The government Wednesday refused to make public details related to the pricing of the 36 Rafale fighter jets in the Supreme Court, saying "our adversaries may get an advantage" by such a disclosure.

Two days after the government submitted to the apex court in a sealed cover details of pricing of the Rafale deal, Attornet General K K Venugopal defended the secrecy clause related to the pricing of jets before a three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi.

To the government's submission, the bench, which also comprised justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, said any discussion on pricing of the Rafale fighter jets can only take place if the facts on the deal are allowed to come in the public domain.

"The decision we need to take is whether to bring the fact on pricing in public domain or not," said bench and noted that without bringing the facts in public domain, there was no question of any debate on the pricing of the planes.

Asserting that the decision on types of aircraft and weapons that need to be bought was a matter for experts and not an issue to be adjudicated upon by the judiciary, Venugopal said, "even Parliament has not been told about the complete cost of jets".

Responding to allegation by Prashant Bhushan, one of the petitioners, that there was no sovereign guarantee by France for the deal, the attorney general admitted that there is no sovereign guarantee, but asserted that there is a letter of comfort by France which would be as good as a governmental guarantee.&nbsp;

Venugopal also submitted that in the earlier contract (during UPA government), the jets were not to be loaded with requisite weapons system and the reservation of the government was due to the fact that it did not want to violate the clause of the Inter Government Agreement and the secrecy clause.

The top law officer said the government has already given to the court the complete details of the Rafale jets, the weapons to be fitted on the aircraft and other requirements, and added that "our adversaries may get advantages if the entire details on the pricing is disclosed".

Refusing to publicly divulge details on the pricing aspect, Venugopal said he would not be able to assist the court further on the pricing issue.&nbsp;

"I decided not to peruse it myself as in a case of any leak, my office would be held responsible," he said.

During the hearing, Venugopal said at the exchange rate of November 2016, the cost of a bare fighter jet was Rs 670 crore. 
India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of the Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore.

The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation.

He also told the court that presently three countries France, Egypt and Qatar are flying Rafale fighter jets. 
Venugopal concluded his argument saying that Rafale aircrafts are potent and "had we possessed Rafale during the Kargil war, we could have avoided huge casualties as Rafale is capable of hitting targets from a distance of 60 kms".

To this the bench said,"Mr. Attorney, Kargil was in 1999-2000? Rafale came in 2014."

The top law officer replied, "I said it hypothetically".&nbsp;

The government Wednesday refused to make public details related to the pricing of the 36 Rafale fighter jets in the Supreme Court, saying "our adversaries may get an advantage" by such a disclosure.

The government Wednesday refused to make public details related to the pricing of the 36 Rafale fighter jets in the Supreme Court, saying "our adversaries may get an advantage" by such a disclosure. Two days after the government submitted to the apex court in a sealed cover details of pricing of the Rafale deal, Attornet General K K Venugopal defended the secrecy clause related to the pricing of jets before a three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. To the government's submission, the bench, which also comprised justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, said any discussion on pricing of the Rafale fighter jets can only take place if the facts on the deal are allowed to come in the public domain. "The decision we need to take is whether to bring the fact on pricing in public domain or not," said bench and noted that without bringing the facts in public domain, there was no question of any debate on the pricing of the planes. Asserting that the decision on types of aircraft and weapons that need to be bought was a matter for experts and not an issue to be adjudicated upon by the judiciary, Venugopal said, "even Parliament has not been told about the complete cost of jets". Responding to allegation by Prashant Bhushan, one of the petitioners, that there was no sovereign guarantee by France for the deal, the attorney general admitted that there is no sovereign guarantee, but asserted that there is a letter of comfort by France which would be as good as a governmental guarantee. Venugopal also submitted that in the earlier contract (during UPA government), the jets were not to be loaded with requisite weapons system and the reservation of the government was due to the fact that it did not want to violate the clause of the Inter Government Agreement and the secrecy clause. The top law officer said the government has already given to the court the complete details of the Rafale jets, the weapons to be fitted on the aircraft and other requirements, and added that "our adversaries may get advantages if the entire details on the pricing is disclosed". Refusing to publicly divulge details on the pricing aspect, Venugopal said he would not be able to assist the court further on the pricing issue. "I decided not to peruse it myself as in a case of any leak, my office would be held responsible," he said. During the hearing, Venugopal said at the exchange rate of November 2016, the cost of a bare fighter jet was Rs 670 crore. India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of the Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore. The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. He also told the court that presently three countries France, Egypt and Qatar are flying Rafale fighter jets. Venugopal concluded his argument saying that Rafale aircrafts are potent and "had we possessed Rafale during the Kargil war, we could have avoided huge casualties as Rafale is capable of hitting targets from a distance of 60 kms". To this the bench said,"Mr. Attorney, Kargil was in 1999-2000? Rafale came in 2014." The top law officer replied, "I said it hypothetically".

Rafale deal: Govt refuses to make pricing details public in SC 

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors.

While the rift is far from healed, the sources said enough progress had been made to avoid acrimony at a board meeting of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) next Monday. The threat that RBI <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">Governor Urjit Patel would quit</a>, as reported by some newspapers last week, is also thought to be off the table, for now, they said.

The uneasy truce is likely to see the RBI ease up on some lending restrictions to help the government stimulate the economy, said the sources. One source said the RBI could agree to tweak restrictions on lending to improve credit flows for smaller companies with a borrowing limit of 250 million rupees ($3.4 million).

Neither the RBI nor the finance ministry responded to requests for comment for this article. The prime minister’s office declined to comment.&nbsp;

It is unclear how much of a role Prime Minister Narendra Modi played in defusing the tension. Local media reported that Modi met Patel last week in an attempt to sort out the contentious issues but officials in the prime minister`s office and the RBI said they did not know of such a meeting.&nbsp;

Modi had appointed Patel as the RBI governor in 2016 for a three-year term that ends in September next year.&nbsp;

For weeks, government officials in New Delhi have been pressuring the Mumbai-based RBI to accede to a range of demands, from easing lending curbs to handing over surplus reserves to the government. This prompted RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya to warn late last month that undermining a central bank`s independence could be "catastrophic," bringing the feud into the open.&nbsp;

Tensions were expected to come to a head at Monday`s meeting as government representatives on the board appeared to be ready to turn up the heat on Patel and accuse the RBI of being intransigent in the face of government demands. &nbsp;

Now, it seems likely there will be a more constructive atmosphere with agreement on some issues, and disputed questions shelved for another day, the sources said.

CAN'T AGREE TO EVERYTHING

The government is keen to provide more stimulus to the economy heading into next year`s election, especially as the incomes of many farmers have been hit by low crop prices. At the same time, it doesn`t want a bust-up with the central bank, which could badly affect investor sentiment and provide political fodder to the opposition Congress party. 
"The government understands the regulator will remain a regulator and can`t agree to all demands," said a government official, who declined to be named, referring to the RBI.&nbsp;

While the official did not give any details of the solutions being worked out with the RBI, he acknowledged that the government did not want to trigger Patel`s departure at such a sensitive time.&nbsp;

There are five key state elections in the next few weeks and a general election due by May. The Congress party has already been harrying the government over allegations of corruption in a military jet deal with France and infighting between the top officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).&nbsp;

An RBI board member said that helping to ease tensions was the idea that both sides wanted a healthy economy. It was just a question of how to get there. "The main issue is how to boost credit growth," the member said referring to the credit crunch facing small companies.&nbsp;

Economics Affairs Secretary S.C. Garg is expected to make a presentation in the board meeting to outline the concerns of the finance ministry and could bring up the question about the transfer of surplus cash reserves held by the RBI, the sources said.&nbsp;

The board member said that an expert panel may be set up to work out the appropriate level of contingency reserves for the RBI, effectively kicking that question down the road. The RBI introduced a so-called corrective action plan in 2014 for 11 state-run banks with bad loan issues and depleted capital. That plan included curbs on risky lending and RBI officials said, as a result, the banks` loan growth fell to zero and had remained there since 2016, from 10 per cent in 2014.&nbsp;

According to the RBI board member, the government wants the RBI to ease those curbs and lower capital requirements for the 11. &nbsp;

Some improvements in the balance sheets of those lenders might give the RBI leeway to do that, although the RBI would prefer to give the mending process more time, said another official who is aware of discussions within the central bank.

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors.

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors. While the rift is far from healed, the sources said enough progress had been made to avoid acrimony at a board meeting of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) next Monday. The threat that RBI Governor Urjit Patel would quit, as reported by some newspapers last week, is also thought to be off the table, for now, they said. The uneasy truce is likely to see the RBI ease up on some lending restrictions to help the government stimulate the economy, said the sources. One source said the RBI could agree to tweak restrictions on lending to improve credit flows for smaller companies with a borrowing limit of 250 million rupees ($3.4 million). Neither the RBI nor the finance ministry responded to requests for comment for this article. The prime minister’s office declined to comment. It is unclear how much of a role Prime Minister Narendra Modi played in defusing the tension. Local media reported that Modi met Patel last week in an attempt to sort out the contentious issues but officials in the prime minister`s office and the RBI said they did not know of such a meeting. Modi had appointed Patel as the RBI governor in 2016 for a three-year term that ends in September next year. For weeks, government officials in New Delhi have been pressuring the Mumbai-based RBI to accede to a range of demands, from easing lending curbs to handing over surplus reserves to the government. This prompted RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya to warn late last month that undermining a central bank`s independence could be "catastrophic," bringing the feud into the open. Tensions were expected to come to a head at Monday`s meeting as government representatives on the board appeared to be ready to turn up the heat on Patel and accuse the RBI of being intransigent in the face of government demands. Now, it seems likely there will be a more constructive atmosphere with agreement on some issues, and disputed questions shelved for another day, the sources said. CAN'T AGREE TO EVERYTHING The government is keen to provide more stimulus to the economy heading into next year`s election, especially as the incomes of many farmers have been hit by low crop prices. At the same time, it doesn`t want a bust-up with the central bank, which could badly affect investor sentiment and provide political fodder to the opposition Congress party. "The government understands the regulator will remain a regulator and can`t agree to all demands," said a government official, who declined to be named, referring to the RBI. While the official did not give any details of the solutions being worked out with the RBI, he acknowledged that the government did not want to trigger Patel`s departure at such a sensitive time. There are five key state elections in the next few weeks and a general election due by May. The Congress party has already been harrying the government over allegations of corruption in a military jet deal with France and infighting between the top officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). An RBI board member said that helping to ease tensions was the idea that both sides wanted a healthy economy. It was just a question of how to get there. "The main issue is how to boost credit growth," the member said referring to the credit crunch facing small companies. Economics Affairs Secretary S.C. Garg is expected to make a presentation in the board meeting to outline the concerns of the finance ministry and could bring up the question about the transfer of surplus cash reserves held by the RBI, the sources said. The board member said that an expert panel may be set up to work out the appropriate level of contingency reserves for the RBI, effectively kicking that question down the road. The RBI introduced a so-called corrective action plan in 2014 for 11 state-run banks with bad loan issues and depleted capital. That plan included curbs on risky lending and RBI officials said, as a result, the banks` loan growth fell to zero and had remained there since 2016, from 10 per cent in 2014. According to the RBI board member, the government wants the RBI to ease those curbs and lower capital requirements for the 11. Some improvements in the balance sheets of those lenders might give the RBI leeway to do that, although the RBI would prefer to give the mending process more time, said another official who is aware of discussions within the central bank.

Govt, RBI nearing truce, threat of Urjit Patel resigning off table: Sources

Keeping up the heat on the RBI, the government will continue to press the central bank to relax norms to boost lending and transfer at least a third of its Rs 9.6 lakh crore reserve, sources familiar with the discussions said.

In recent weeks, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-could-resign-on-november-19-report-175967">rift between the RBI and the government</a> has been widening over various issues.

Recently, the government cited never-used before provisions of law that gives it powers to issue directions to the RBI on mattes of public interest to resolve certain issues.

Citing Section 7 of the RBI Act - an unprecedented move in the 80-year history of RBI - the government wants RBI Governor Urjit Patel to address three prime concerns. They pertain to transfer of surplus funds, easing of NPA norms to kickstart lending and support growth, and easing liquidity crisis facing non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), sources had said.

These issues may figure during the RBI's board meeting on November 19.

According to the sources, the government would continue to press the RBI to relax norms to boost lending and transfer at least a third of its Rs 9.6 lakh crore reserve.

The government wants the RBI to part with most of its profit as dividend. The central bank, however, feels that it needs to retain a share of profits to make its balance sheet stronger, as per media reports.

The government wants Rs 3.6 lakh crore of surplus to be transferred to it, the reports said.

In its attempt to clean up the banking system, the RBI introduced Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework that places curbs on lending, expanding branch network and dividend distribution on weak banks.

It has also mandated banks to declare a delinquent borrower even if payments were overdue by a day.

The government wants some of these strictures to be eased to kick start lending and support growth, the sources said.

One of the nominee director on RBI's Central Board S Gurumurthy has reportedly written to RBI Governor Urjit Patel regarding Deputy Governor Viral Acharya raising the issue of the bank's autonomy at a public event recently.

Sources had said that the RBI's board meeting on November 19 was pre-scheduled and routine. The last meeting of the board was held in October.

Apart from Patel and his four deputies, there are 13 nominated directors on the RBI's board.

The reports of rift between the RBI and the government surfaced last month following the Finance Ministry reportedly started discussion with the RBI under the never before used Section 7 of the RBI Act.

In a statement last week, the ministry said the RBI's autonomy is "essential" and will be "nurtured".

Last week, Economic Affairs Seceretary Subhash Chandra Garg and government nominee on the Board took an apparent dig at Acharya's 'wrath of financial markets' comment in a tweet saying vital indicators of the economy were showing improvement.

Acharya, in his much talked about speech last month, raised the issue of autonomy of the central bank and said that undermining the central bank's independence could be "potentially catastrophic".

"Governments that do not respect central bank independence will sooner or later incur the wrath of financial markets, ignite economic fire, and come to rue the day they undermined an important regulatory institution; their wiser counterparts who invest in central bank independence will enjoy lower costs of borrowing, the love of international investors, and longer life spans," Acharya had said.

The deputy governor's comment had generated controversy, hinting at the growing rift between the government and the central bank.

Keeping up the heat on the RBI, the government will continue to press the central bank to relax norms to boost lending and transfer at least a third of its Rs 9.

Keeping up the heat on the RBI, the government will continue to press the central bank to relax norms to boost lending and transfer at least a third of its Rs 9.6 lakh crore reserve, sources familiar with the discussions said. In recent weeks, the rift between the RBI and the government has been widening over various issues. Recently, the government cited never-used before provisions of law that gives it powers to issue directions to the RBI on mattes of public interest to resolve certain issues. Citing Section 7 of the RBI Act - an unprecedented move in the 80-year history of RBI - the government wants RBI Governor Urjit Patel to address three prime concerns. They pertain to transfer of surplus funds, easing of NPA norms to kickstart lending and support growth, and easing liquidity crisis facing non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), sources had said. These issues may figure during the RBI's board meeting on November 19. According to the sources, the government would continue to press the RBI to relax norms to boost lending and transfer at least a third of its Rs 9.6 lakh crore reserve. The government wants the RBI to part with most of its profit as dividend. The central bank, however, feels that it needs to retain a share of profits to make its balance sheet stronger, as per media reports. The government wants Rs 3.6 lakh crore of surplus to be transferred to it, the reports said. In its attempt to clean up the banking system, the RBI introduced Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework that places curbs on lending, expanding branch network and dividend distribution on weak banks. It has also mandated banks to declare a delinquent borrower even if payments were overdue by a day. The government wants some of these strictures to be eased to kick start lending and support growth, the sources said. One of the nominee director on RBI's Central Board S Gurumurthy has reportedly written to RBI Governor Urjit Patel regarding Deputy Governor Viral Acharya raising the issue of the bank's autonomy at a public event recently. Sources had said that the RBI's board meeting on November 19 was pre-scheduled and routine. The last meeting of the board was held in October. Apart from Patel and his four deputies, there are 13 nominated directors on the RBI's board. The reports of rift between the RBI and the government surfaced last month following the Finance Ministry reportedly started discussion with the RBI under the never before used Section 7 of the RBI Act. In a statement last week, the ministry said the RBI's autonomy is "essential" and will be "nurtured". Last week, Economic Affairs Seceretary Subhash Chandra Garg and government nominee on the Board took an apparent dig at Acharya's 'wrath of financial markets' comment in a tweet saying vital indicators of the economy were showing improvement. Acharya, in his much talked about speech last month, raised the issue of autonomy of the central bank and said that undermining the central bank's independence could be "potentially catastrophic". "Governments that do not respect central bank independence will sooner or later incur the wrath of financial markets, ignite economic fire, and come to rue the day they undermined an important regulatory institution; their wiser counterparts who invest in central bank independence will enjoy lower costs of borrowing, the love of international investors, and longer life spans," Acharya had said. The deputy governor's comment had generated controversy, hinting at the growing rift between the government and the central bank.

Govt to continue pressing RBI for relaxing norms, funds: Sources

The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning</a>&nbsp;

Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the Section 7 of the RBI Act on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said.

Section 7 says that 'the Central Government may from time to time give such directions to the Bank as it may, after consultation with the Governor of the Bank, consider necessary in the public interest', a statute that has not been used in independent India, according to the Economic Times.

The RBI was not immediately available for comment. The finance ministry could not be immediately reached for comment.

Tensions between the RBI and the government have spilled into the public domain after Deputy Governor Viral Acharya said last week that undermining central bank independence could be "potentially catastrophic", indicating the authority is pushing back against government pressure to relax its policies and reduce its powers ahead of a general election due by May.

Adding to the row, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley blamed the central bank for failing to stop a lending spree during 2008-2014 that left banks with $150 billion of bad debt.

&nbsp;

The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday. Also read: RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the Section 7 of the RBI Act on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said. Section 7 says that 'the Central Government may from time to time give such directions to the Bank as it may, after consultation with the Governor of the Bank, consider necessary in the public interest', a statute that has not been used in independent India, according to the Economic Times. The RBI was not immediately available for comment. The finance ministry could not be immediately reached for comment. Tensions between the RBI and the government have spilled into the public domain after Deputy Governor Viral Acharya said last week that undermining central bank independence could be "potentially catastrophic", indicating the authority is pushing back against government pressure to relax its policies and reduce its powers ahead of a general election due by May. Adding to the row, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley blamed the central bank for failing to stop a lending spree during 2008-2014 that left banks with $150 billion of bad debt.

Government invokes powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the central government for pricing details of the Rafale deal. The court also asked for details of the deal's offset partner.&nbsp;

The court told the government that details of the deal that should legitimately be in the public domain should be shared with the petitioners who have filed PILs against the deal.&nbsp;

The court added that the details should be handed over in a sealed cover within the next 10 days.&nbsp;

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Supreme Court asks Centre to give details of the pricing and strategic details of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> aircraft in a sealed cover to the court, in 10 days. <a href="https://t.co/wqKbErKpbh">pic.twitter.com/wqKbErKpbh</a>
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Supreme Court asks Central government to disclose information on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> deal which can be legitimately put in public domain and information on induction of Indian offset partner be furnished to petitioners who have filed PILs <a href="https://t.co/XWMpffILGJ">https://t.co/XWMpffILGJ</a>
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The court made clear Wednesday that it did not want technical details of the deal, saying that none of the PILs filed against the deal had challenged the suitability of the fighter jet.&nbsp;

The court also added that the government did not need to hand over any details that were secret, or which might affect national security.&nbsp;

Attorney General KK Venugopal however told the court that the deal's pricing details could not be shared with the court, in reply to which the court ordered the Centre to file an affidavit saying why that was so.&nbsp;

The court had earlier asked the government for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-supreme-court-asks-govt-for-details-of-decision-making-process-170590">details of the deal's decision-making process</a>.&nbsp;

The opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal. &nbsp;

An original deal to buy 126 Rafale fighter planes from France's Dassault Aviation had been brokered by the UPA government. Then, in 2015, Modi signed a new government-to-government deal with then French president Francois Hollande to buy 36 of the planes.&nbsp;

The opposition — led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi — says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale. The opposition has also accused the government of crony capitalism.&nbsp;

According to India's defence acquisition rules, a foreign company making a large sale to India has to funnel 30% of the money paid to it back into India. That by definition requires it to have an Indian partner or partners.&nbsp;

The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries.&nbsp;

The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it but Hollande, while on a trip to India, recently said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the central government for pricing details of the Rafale deal. The court also asked for details of the deal's offset partner.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the central government for pricing details of the Rafale deal. The court also asked for details of the deal's offset partner. The court told the government that details of the deal that should legitimately be in the public domain should be shared with the petitioners who have filed PILs against the deal. The court added that the details should be handed over in a sealed cover within the next 10 days. Supreme Court asks Centre to give details of the pricing and strategic details of #Rafale aircraft in a sealed cover to the court, in 10 days. pic.twitter.com/wqKbErKpbh — ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2018 × Supreme Court asks Central government to disclose information on #Rafale deal which can be legitimately put in public domain and information on induction of Indian offset partner be furnished to petitioners who have filed PILs https://t.co/XWMpffILGJ — ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2018 × The court made clear Wednesday that it did not want technical details of the deal, saying that none of the PILs filed against the deal had challenged the suitability of the fighter jet. The court also added that the government did not need to hand over any details that were secret, or which might affect national security. Attorney General KK Venugopal however told the court that the deal's pricing details could not be shared with the court, in reply to which the court ordered the Centre to file an affidavit saying why that was so. The court had earlier asked the government for details of the deal's decision-making process. The opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal. An original deal to buy 126 Rafale fighter planes from France's Dassault Aviation had been brokered by the UPA government. Then, in 2015, Modi signed a new government-to-government deal with then French president Francois Hollande to buy 36 of the planes. The opposition — led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi — says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale. The opposition has also accused the government of crony capitalism. According to India's defence acquisition rules, a foreign company making a large sale to India has to funnel 30% of the money paid to it back into India. That by definition requires it to have an Indian partner or partners. The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries. The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it but Hollande, while on a trip to India, recently said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name.

Rafale deal: SC asks Centre for pricing details, govt says cannot share

The Finance Ministry said Wednesday that both the government and the RBI have to be guided by public interest and the requirements of the economy.&nbsp;

It added that "autonomy for the Central Bank within framework of RBI Act is essential and accepted governance requirement. Governments have nurtured and respected this."&nbsp;

There have been several media reports of late of a massive rift opening up between the government and the Reserve Bank of India.&nbsp;

RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya said last week in a public speech that "governments that do not respect central bank's independence will sooner or later <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-govt-that-does-not-respect-rbis-independence-will-incur-wrath-of-markets-rbi-deputy-governor-173752">incur the wrath of financial markets</a>". Acharya is said to have had the backing of his boss, RBI Governor Urjit Patel.&nbsp;

The government was reportedly "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-very-upset-with-rbi-for-making-rift-public-sources-174359">very upset</a>" by the RBI talking about the rift in public.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, wionews.com reported that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">Patel may be considering resigning</a>.&nbsp;

In its statement Wednesday, the Finance Ministry added that: "Extensive consultations on several issues take place between government and RBI from time to time. This is equally true of all regulators. Government has never made public the subject matter of those consultations. Only final decisions are communicated."&nbsp;

The Finance Ministry said Wednesday that both the government and the RBI have to be guided by public interest and the requirements of the economy. It added that "autonomy for the Central Bank within framework of RBI Act is essential and accepted governance requirement.

The Finance Ministry said Wednesday that both the government and the RBI have to be guided by public interest and the requirements of the economy. It added that "autonomy for the Central Bank within framework of RBI Act is essential and accepted governance requirement. Governments have nurtured and respected this." There have been several media reports of late of a massive rift opening up between the government and the Reserve Bank of India. RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya said last week in a public speech that "governments that do not respect central bank's independence will sooner or later incur the wrath of financial markets". Acharya is said to have had the backing of his boss, RBI Governor Urjit Patel. The government was reportedly "very upset" by the RBI talking about the rift in public. On Wednesday, wionews.com reported that Patel may be considering resigning. In its statement Wednesday, the Finance Ministry added that: "Extensive consultations on several issues take place between government and RBI from time to time. This is equally true of all regulators. Government has never made public the subject matter of those consultations. Only final decisions are communicated."

Both govt & RBI have to be guided by public interest, Finance Ministry says amid reports of row

Indian government officials are very upset with the central bank for publicly talking about a rift with the government, fearing it could tarnish the country's image among investors, senior officials said on Monday.

On Friday night, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor Viral Acharya warned that undermining a central bank's independence could be "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-govt-that-does-not-respect-rbis-independence-will-incur-wrath-of-markets-rbi-deputy-governor-173752">potentially catastrophic</a>", in an indication that it is pushing back hard against government pressure to relax its policies and reduce its powers.

In a speech to top industrialists Acharya cited the Argentine government's meddling in its central bank's affairs in 2010 as an example of what can go wrong. That led to a surge in bond yields that badly hurt the South American economy.

"Governments that do not respect central bank independence will sooner or later incur the wrath of financial markets, ignite economic fire, and come to rue the day they undermined an important regulatory institution," Acharya said.

The government officials Reuters spoke to on Monday declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject.

One said that it was vital that what happened between the government in New Delhi and the RBI in Mumbai was kept confidential. "The government respects the autonomy and independence of the RBI but they must understand their responsibility," the official said.

A second official, based in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office, said it was "very unfortunate" that the RBI took the matters public. "The government is very upset. It was not expected from the RBI," the official added.

An RBI spokesman was not immediately available for comments after business hours.

Government officials have recently called for the RBI to relax its lending restrictions on some banks, and New Delhi has also been trying to trim the RBI's regulatory powers by setting up a new regulator for the country's payments system.

The Modi administration has also been pushing the central bank to part with some of its 3.6 trillion rupees ($49 billion)surplus to help bridge the fiscal deficit and finance its welfare programmes.

JAPAN TRIP

The officials in New Delhi were particularly angry that Acharya launched the attack while Modi was about to head to Japan for talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the first source said.

Finance ministry officials remained largely silent in response to the speech at the weekend, as they didn't want to aggravate the issue when Modi and top officials were in Japan, this official said.

Government officials believe that RBI Governor Urjit Patel has some responsibility for the controversy, and he cannot expect an extension of his current three-year term - which ends next September - "as his right", one of the officials added.

Acharya had three of his fellow deputy governors in the audience and also thanked Governor Patel for his "suggestion to explore this theme for a speech", in a show of unity from an institution typically known for its restraint.

The official in the prime minister's office said Patel could face a tough time when he appears before a parliamentary standing committee on Nov. 12.

Top government officials said they were surprised that Patel, who was appointed by the Modi administration in 2016, and initially cooperated with New Delhi, is creating tensions when the government is facing criticism over handling of the economy before a national election, due by next May.

On Monday, a third government source said the finance ministry was worried how markets would respond to Acharya's public comments, but felt more relaxed after they rose. The gains were largely a result of a separate announcement by the RBI about an injection of liquidity through government bond buying.

The benchmark stock index rose as much as 2.15 percent and the yields on the 10-year benchmark fell to 7.81 percent, compared with 7.88 percent on Friday.

Modi's government is pushing the central bank to relax lending norms for small businesses and pump more liquidity into the market to bolster economic growth before key state elections due in the next few weeks and the general election.

It is worried that the central bank's hawkish monetary stance and stringent regulations on lending by state banks could push economic growth below 7 percent in the October-December quarter - the last quarter for which data would be available ahead of the general election.

"When we are facing problems on the external front like high crude oil prices, trade tensions putting pressure on our current account balance, can we afford another domestic crisis?" the third government source said.

Indian government officials are very upset with the central bank for publicly talking about a rift with the government, fearing it could tarnish the country's image among investors, senior officials said on Monday.

Indian government officials are very upset with the central bank for publicly talking about a rift with the government, fearing it could tarnish the country's image among investors, senior officials said on Monday. On Friday night, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor Viral Acharya warned that undermining a central bank's independence could be "potentially catastrophic", in an indication that it is pushing back hard against government pressure to relax its policies and reduce its powers. In a speech to top industrialists Acharya cited the Argentine government's meddling in its central bank's affairs in 2010 as an example of what can go wrong. That led to a surge in bond yields that badly hurt the South American economy. "Governments that do not respect central bank independence will sooner or later incur the wrath of financial markets, ignite economic fire, and come to rue the day they undermined an important regulatory institution," Acharya said. The government officials Reuters spoke to on Monday declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject. One said that it was vital that what happened between the government in New Delhi and the RBI in Mumbai was kept confidential. "The government respects the autonomy and independence of the RBI but they must understand their responsibility," the official said. A second official, based in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office, said it was "very unfortunate" that the RBI took the matters public. "The government is very upset. It was not expected from the RBI," the official added. An RBI spokesman was not immediately available for comments after business hours. Government officials have recently called for the RBI to relax its lending restrictions on some banks, and New Delhi has also been trying to trim the RBI's regulatory powers by setting up a new regulator for the country's payments system. The Modi administration has also been pushing the central bank to part with some of its 3.6 trillion rupees ($49 billion)surplus to help bridge the fiscal deficit and finance its welfare programmes. JAPAN TRIP The officials in New Delhi were particularly angry that Acharya launched the attack while Modi was about to head to Japan for talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the first source said. Finance ministry officials remained largely silent in response to the speech at the weekend, as they didn't want to aggravate the issue when Modi and top officials were in Japan, this official said. Government officials believe that RBI Governor Urjit Patel has some responsibility for the controversy, and he cannot expect an extension of his current three-year term - which ends next September - "as his right", one of the officials added. Acharya had three of his fellow deputy governors in the audience and also thanked Governor Patel for his "suggestion to explore this theme for a speech", in a show of unity from an institution typically known for its restraint. The official in the prime minister's office said Patel could face a tough time when he appears before a parliamentary standing committee on Nov. 12. Top government officials said they were surprised that Patel, who was appointed by the Modi administration in 2016, and initially cooperated with New Delhi, is creating tensions when the government is facing criticism over handling of the economy before a national election, due by next May. On Monday, a third government source said the finance ministry was worried how markets would respond to Acharya's public comments, but felt more relaxed after they rose. The gains were largely a result of a separate announcement by the RBI about an injection of liquidity through government bond buying. The benchmark stock index rose as much as 2.15 percent and the yields on the 10-year benchmark fell to 7.81 percent, compared with 7.88 percent on Friday. Modi's government is pushing the central bank to relax lending norms for small businesses and pump more liquidity into the market to bolster economic growth before key state elections due in the next few weeks and the general election. It is worried that the central bank's hawkish monetary stance and stringent regulations on lending by state banks could push economic growth below 7 percent in the October-December quarter - the last quarter for which data would be available ahead of the general election. "When we are facing problems on the external front like high crude oil prices, trade tensions putting pressure on our current account balance, can we afford another domestic crisis?" the third government source said.

Government very upset with RBI for making rift public: Sources

Mobile messaging app Whatsapp has appointed a grievance officer for India and detailed out a process on its website for users to flag concerns and complaints, including those around fake news.

Meeting one of the key demands made by India to curb fake messages that triggered mob killings, the Facebook-owned company has updated its website to reflect the appointment of a 'Grievance Officer for India'.

The update mentions that users can seek help through the mobile app, send an email or write in to grievance officer Komal Lahiri, who is based out of the US.

According to Lahiri's LinkedIn profile, she is the senior director, global customer operations and localisation, at WhatsApp.

A WhatsApp spokesperson declined to comment on the matter but pointed to the public FAQ on the company's website that contains these details.

According to sources, the appointment of the grievance officer was made at the end of August.

According to WhatsApp's website, users can reach out to the company's support team directly from the app under 'Settings' tab and if they wish to escalate the complaint, they can contact the grievance officer.

A section within the FAQs reads: "You (users) can contact the Grievance Officer with complaints or concerns, including the following: WhatsApp's Terms of Service; and Questions about your account."

The updated FAQs also listed out a mechanism for law enforcement officials on how to reach out to WhatsApp.

The government has been pressing WhatsApp to develop tools to combat fake or false messages.&nbsp;

India is WhatsApp's biggest market with more than 200 million users. In July, it limited message forwards to five chats at a time and removed the quick forward button to discourage mass forwarding. It has also introduced a 'forward' label to help users identify such messages.

The latest appointment is also significant as the Supreme Court last month agreed to examine a petition alleging that WhatsApp does not comply with Indian laws, including the provision for appointing a grievance officer. The apex court had sought a reply on the matter within four weeks.

With general elections slated for next year in India, the government is taking a tough stance on the spread of misinformation through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp.

The government had warned WhatsApp that it will treat the messaging platform as abettor of rumour propagation while legal consequences will follow if adequate checks are not put in place.

In a meeting with WhatsApp Head Chris Daniels last month, information technology minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asserted that the company will have to find a solution to track the origin of messages on its platform, set up a local corporate entity that is subject to Indian laws within a defined time frame as well as appoint a grievance officer.

WhatsApp, which has been slapped with two notices with a third one under consideration, has said it is in the process of establishing a local corporate entity.

It has, however, not accepted the government's demand for traceability of messages saying creating such a software will go against the idea of user privacy and end-to-end encryption. 
&nbsp;

Mobile messaging app Whatsapp has appointed a grievance officer for India and detailed out a process on its website for users to flag concerns and complaints, including those around fake news.

Mobile messaging app Whatsapp has appointed a grievance officer for India and detailed out a process on its website for users to flag concerns and complaints, including those around fake news. Meeting one of the key demands made by India to curb fake messages that triggered mob killings, the Facebook-owned company has updated its website to reflect the appointment of a 'Grievance Officer for India'. The update mentions that users can seek help through the mobile app, send an email or write in to grievance officer Komal Lahiri, who is based out of the US. According to Lahiri's LinkedIn profile, she is the senior director, global customer operations and localisation, at WhatsApp. A WhatsApp spokesperson declined to comment on the matter but pointed to the public FAQ on the company's website that contains these details. According to sources, the appointment of the grievance officer was made at the end of August. According to WhatsApp's website, users can reach out to the company's support team directly from the app under 'Settings' tab and if they wish to escalate the complaint, they can contact the grievance officer. A section within the FAQs reads: "You (users) can contact the Grievance Officer with complaints or concerns, including the following: WhatsApp's Terms of Service; and Questions about your account." The updated FAQs also listed out a mechanism for law enforcement officials on how to reach out to WhatsApp. The government has been pressing WhatsApp to develop tools to combat fake or false messages. India is WhatsApp's biggest market with more than 200 million users. In July, it limited message forwards to five chats at a time and removed the quick forward button to discourage mass forwarding. It has also introduced a 'forward' label to help users identify such messages. The latest appointment is also significant as the Supreme Court last month agreed to examine a petition alleging that WhatsApp does not comply with Indian laws, including the provision for appointing a grievance officer. The apex court had sought a reply on the matter within four weeks. With general elections slated for next year in India, the government is taking a tough stance on the spread of misinformation through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp. The government had warned WhatsApp that it will treat the messaging platform as abettor of rumour propagation while legal consequences will follow if adequate checks are not put in place. In a meeting with WhatsApp Head Chris Daniels last month, information technology minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asserted that the company will have to find a solution to track the origin of messages on its platform, set up a local corporate entity that is subject to Indian laws within a defined time frame as well as appoint a grievance officer. WhatsApp, which has been slapped with two notices with a third one under consideration, has said it is in the process of establishing a local corporate entity. It has, however, not accepted the government's demand for traceability of messages saying creating such a software will go against the idea of user privacy and end-to-end encryption.

Meeting govt's demand, WhatsApp appoints 'Grievance Officer for India'

Non-BJP parties are beaming after success in bypoll results on May 31, particularly on BJP's defeat in Kairana. All local satraps of non-BJP parties (or can we say a legion of aspiring PM candidates) are denouncing that this is beginning of end game for Modi and Shah.

The rhetoric is that united opposition would make sure that BJP is defeated in 2019. Somehow Congress is in the funniest situation. All the spokespersons of the party have been upbeat and smiling on all channels despite the fact Congress got nothing in this bypoll. When one TV anchor asked a very pertinent question to Congress last night "whether your objective in 2019 to win election or just to make sure that BJP is defeated?", Congress spokesperson was mumbling in response.

The bottomline is that despite results of Kairana and Gorakhpur/Phulpur earlier, the non-BJP federal front stands no merit. In the first place, against a formidable Modi/Shah duo, the united opposition will not have an easy task in hand. But even if they have a chance, it is not good for the nation in any way.

History tells this to us in an unequivocal manner.

There is a very unique paradox here. All these parties are coming together because of a looming existential crisis. There is an ultimate fear factor and let's call it XYZ factor. This&nbsp; XYZ factor may keep these parties on a platform until the time of the election. Once they get political success (this is just an assumption though) this XYZ factor vanishes in no time. Since XYZ was the only binding factor, once it goes, in-fighting and split is imminent. Once in power, personal political agenda of each satrap will come to the fore and completely take over the XYZ factor. This phenomenon is in the very DNA of the mankind and cannot be denied.

In 1977, as soon as all leaders under JP were able to defeat Indira Gandhi and government was formed at the Centre, swords came out and all heavyweights started fighting with each other. It took just a couple of years for the government to fall.

In 1989, the drive to remove Rajiv and Congress was so strong that in an unprecedented move left (CPI/CPM) and right (BJP) came on a single platform to support VP Singh. VP Singh couldn't even complete one year at the office.

Take the latest example of Karnataka. In a haste to stop the BJP, Congress and JD(S) have come together but once in power, they are not even able to set ministers for different portfolios even after 10 days of getting a go ahead for forming the government.

But make no mistake. Even a united opposition is in no way in the position of 1977 and 1989. In 1977, there was nationwide anger against Indira Gandhi and in 1989 there was a clear resentment against Rajiv. Being astute statesmen, JP and VP Singh capitalised on the situation and built a strong narrative. This time united opposition neither have a unique politician (like JP and VP Singh) behind whom other can coalesce and at the top of it, Modi is still on a very strong pitch.

Bypoll results can be misleading. One political commentator made a very interesting comment. He said that Modi's direct involvement in any election in itself results in 2-3% vote swing in favour of BJP. So the real battle would be a different ball game.

In the end, the slogan "Modi hatao" cannot be the single point objective. Opposition parties need to set a convincing agenda and put up the same to voters. The Indian democracy and voters have matured over the years. Extrapolating Kairana's result to the whole nation in 2019 can, in fact, be fatal for the united opposition.

Modi and Shah are very much up for the challenge. There is one full year for the 2019 election and Amit Shah is shrewd enough to recalibrate his plans for this new challenge.

The attempt of united opposition to topple BJP is bound to fail and it is nothing more the repeat of failed experiments in the past.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Non-BJP parties are beaming after success in bypoll results on May 31, particularly on BJP's defeat in Kairana. All local satraps of non-BJP parties (or can we say a legion of aspiring PM candidates) are denouncing that this is beginning of end game for Modi and Shah. The rhetoric is that united opposition would make sure that BJP is defeated in 2019. Somehow Congress is in the funniest situation. All the spokespersons of the party have been upbeat and smiling on all channels despite the fact Congress got nothing in this bypoll. When one TV anchor asked a very pertinent question to Congress last night "whether your objective in 2019 to win election or just to make sure that BJP is defeated?", Congress spokesperson was mumbling in response. The bottomline is that despite results of Kairana and Gorakhpur/Phulpur earlier, the non-BJP federal front stands no merit. In the first place, against a formidable Modi/Shah duo, the united opposition will not have an easy task in hand. But even if they have a chance, it is not good for the nation in any way. History tells this to us in an unequivocal manner. There is a very unique paradox here. All these parties are coming together because of a looming existential crisis. There is an ultimate fear factor and let's call it XYZ factor. This XYZ factor may keep these parties on a platform until the time of the election. Once they get political success (this is just an assumption though) this XYZ factor vanishes in no time. Since XYZ was the only binding factor, once it goes, in-fighting and split is imminent. Once in power, personal political agenda of each satrap will come to the fore and completely take over the XYZ factor. This phenomenon is in the very DNA of the mankind and cannot be denied. In 1977, as soon as all leaders under JP were able to defeat Indira Gandhi and government was formed at the Centre, swords came out and all heavyweights started fighting with each other. It took just a couple of years for the government to fall. In 1989, the drive to remove Rajiv and Congress was so strong that in an unprecedented move left (CPI/CPM) and right (BJP) came on a single platform to support VP Singh. VP Singh couldn't even complete one year at the office. Take the latest example of Karnataka. In a haste to stop the BJP, Congress and JD(S) have come together but once in power, they are not even able to set ministers for different portfolios even after 10 days of getting a go ahead for forming the government. But make no mistake. Even a united opposition is in no way in the position of 1977 and 1989. In 1977, there was nationwide anger against Indira Gandhi and in 1989 there was a clear resentment against Rajiv. Being astute statesmen, JP and VP Singh capitalised on the situation and built a strong narrative. This time united opposition neither have a unique politician (like JP and VP Singh) behind whom other can coalesce and at the top of it, Modi is still on a very strong pitch. Bypoll results can be misleading. One political commentator made a very interesting comment. He said that Modi's direct involvement in any election in itself results in 2-3% vote swing in favour of BJP. So the real battle would be a different ball game. In the end, the slogan "Modi hatao" cannot be the single point objective. Opposition parties need to set a convincing agenda and put up the same to voters. The Indian democracy and voters have matured over the years. Extrapolating Kairana's result to the whole nation in 2019 can, in fact, be fatal for the united opposition. Modi and Shah are very much up for the challenge. There is one full year for the 2019 election and Amit Shah is shrewd enough to recalibrate his plans for this new challenge. The attempt of united opposition to topple BJP is bound to fail and it is nothing more the repeat of failed experiments in the past. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Can united opposition take on BJP? History says otherwise

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Opinion: Can united opposition take on BJP? History says otherwise