Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed. In other news, the Indian National Congress (INC) received&nbsp;a major jolt ahead of the general elections as young party leader Milind Deora announced his resignation, ending his family's '55-year-old relationship' with the political outfit.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-violence-41-hostage-prison-workers-freed-136-remain-captive-679751">Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim</a>

All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-milind-deora-resigns-from-congress-ends-familys-55-year-relationship-with-the-party-679767">India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party</a>

Congress leader Milind Deora on Sunday (Jan 14) announced his resignation from the Congress party, ending a 55-year-old association of the Deora family with the country's oldest political party.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-leaders-reach-short-term-deal-to-avert-government-shutdown-till-march-report-679759">US Congress leaders reach short-term deal to avert government shutdown till March: Report</a>

The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a&nbsp;CNN&nbsp;report that cites sources.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cannot-bully-us-maldives-president-muizzu-takes-swipe-at-india-after-china-visit-679750">'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit</a>

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a swipe at India, amid the ongoing diplomatic row after returning from his five-day trip to China.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-elections-2024-lai-ching-te-wins-presidential-election-amid-china-threat-679771">Watch |&nbsp;Taiwan Elections 2024: Lai Ching-Te wins Presidential election amid China threat</a>

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Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Saturday (Jan 13) announced that 178 prison workers, held hostage since last Monday (Jan 1) by the inmates in at least seven prisons across the country, were finally freed. In other news, the Indian National Congress (INC) received a major jolt ahead of the general elections as young party leader Milind Deora announced his resignation, ending his family's '55-year-old relationship' with the political outfit. Click on headlines to read more: Ecuador violence: 178 hostage prison workers freed, officials claim All prison staff held by inmates at prisons in Ecuador amid a sharp uptick in violence had been freed by Saturday (Jan 13) evening, the SNAI prisons agency said. India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party Congress leader Milind Deora on Sunday (Jan 14) announced his resignation from the Congress party, ending a 55-year-old association of the Deora family with the country's oldest political party. US Congress leaders reach short-term deal to avert government shutdown till March: Report The US Congress has reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal that would help avoid a government shutdown, according to a CNN report that cites sources. 'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a swipe at India, amid the ongoing diplomatic row after returning from his five-day trip to China. Watch | Taiwan Elections 2024: Lai Ching-Te wins Presidential election amid China threat ×

Morning news brief: Ecuador prison workers freed, Congress leader Milind Deora resigns, and more

Founder of YSR Telangana PartyY.S. Sharmila, the daughter of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy and sister of A.P. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, joined the Congress here on Thursday, January 4, 2024. Sharmila joined the Congress in the presence of Congress President Malikarjun Kharge, former president Rahul Gandhi and the other senior leaders.

Indian National Congress pitches sister against brother in Andhra | YS Sharmila joins Congress

Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

This comes a day after the political party said that it “condemns brutal attacks on the people of Israel” while also extending support for the “legitimate aspirations” of the Palestinian people.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shortly after Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel, expressed solidarity with Israel along with several Western countries and Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the Congress resolution say?</h2>

The resolution passed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), a copy of which was posted on Congress’ X account, expressed deep concern over the conflict going on between Israel and Hamas and urged a ceasefire while also affirming the party’s backing for the rights of the Palestinian people.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Historical conflict between Israel-Palestine amid unprovoked escalation by Hamas</a>

“CWC expresses its dismay and anguish on the war that has broken out in the Middle East where over a thousand people have been killed in the last two days. The CWC reiterates its long-standing support for the rights of the Palestinian people to land, self-government and to live with dignity and respect,” the statement read.&nbsp;

It added, “The CWC calls for an immediate cease-fire and for negotiations to begin on all outstanding issues including the imperative issues that have given rise to the present conflict.”&nbsp;

The statement comes a day after Congress’ General Secretary in-charge of Communications Jairam Ramesh, said, “The Indian National Congress condemns the brutal attacks on the people of Israel.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nc-congress-emerge-as-winners-in-ladakh-autonomous-hill-development-council-elections-644251">India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections</a>

It added, “The Indian National Congress has always believed that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for a life of self-respect, equality and dignity must be fulfilled only through a process for dialogue and negotiations while ensuring the legitimate national security interests of the Israeli people.”&nbsp;

“Violence of any type never provides a solution and must,” said Ramesh.&nbsp;

<h2>PM Modi’s statement</h2>

Shortly after the attack on Israel, PM Modi took to X and said “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-condemn-hamas-surprise-attack-from-gaza-express-solidarity-with-israel-643706">Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel</a> 
 
After witnessing the&nbsp;deadliest attack in decades, Israel has since declared itself in a state of war after Palestinian militants launched hundreds of rockets from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7).

As of Monday (Oct 9), hundreds of people have been killed in both Israel and Gaza and thousands of others have been injured.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas.

Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party has reiterated its support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed on Monday (Oct 9) and called for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hamas. This comes a day after the political party said that it “condemns brutal attacks on the people of Israel” while also extending support for the “legitimate aspirations” of the Palestinian people. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shortly after Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel, expressed solidarity with Israel along with several Western countries and Ukraine. What did the Congress resolution say? The resolution passed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), a copy of which was posted on Congress’ X account, expressed deep concern over the conflict going on between Israel and Hamas and urged a ceasefire while also affirming the party’s backing for the rights of the Palestinian people. ALSO READ | Explained: Historical conflict between Israel-Palestine amid unprovoked escalation by Hamas “CWC expresses its dismay and anguish on the war that has broken out in the Middle East where over a thousand people have been killed in the last two days. The CWC reiterates its long-standing support for the rights of the Palestinian people to land, self-government and to live with dignity and respect,” the statement read. It added, “The CWC calls for an immediate cease-fire and for negotiations to begin on all outstanding issues including the imperative issues that have given rise to the present conflict.” The statement comes a day after Congress’ General Secretary in-charge of Communications Jairam Ramesh, said, “The Indian National Congress condemns the brutal attacks on the people of Israel.” ALSO READ | India: NC, Congress emerge as winners in Ladakh autonomous hill development council elections It added, “The Indian National Congress has always believed that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for a life of self-respect, equality and dignity must be fulfilled only through a process for dialogue and negotiations while ensuring the legitimate national security interests of the Israeli people.” “Violence of any type never provides a solution and must,” said Ramesh. PM Modi’s statement Shortly after the attack on Israel, PM Modi took to X and said “Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour.” ALSO READ | Western countries condemn Hamas' surprise attack from Gaza, express solidarity with Israel After witnessing the deadliest attack in decades, Israel has since declared itself in a state of war after Palestinian militants launched hundreds of rockets from the blockaded Gaza Strip towards Israel on Saturday (Oct 7). As of Monday (Oct 9), hundreds of people have been killed in both Israel and Gaza and thousands of others have been injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s Congress party extends support for Palestinians after Hamas attack on Israel, calls for ceasefire

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi&nbsp;declared her party's backing for the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament)&nbsp;during the discussion on the proposed legislation advocating a 33 per cent quota for women in both the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

Speaking as the Congress parliamentary party chief, she said, "On behalf of the Indian National Congress, I stand in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023."

<h2>What did her speech encompass?</h2>

She credited her late husband, Rajiv Gandhi, for his efforts in bringing about a constitutional amendment to bring women's representation in local body elections.

She recounted how this amendment was initially defeated in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian parliament)&nbsp;but was eventually passed under the leadership of Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, resulting in the election of 15,00,000&nbsp;women leaders across the nation in local bodies.

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Women's Reservation Bill | Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi says, "This is an emotional moment of my own life as well. For the first time, Constitutional amendment to decide women's representation in local body election was brought by my life partner… <a href="https://t.co/stm2Sggnor">pic.twitter.com/stm2Sggnor</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1704375892540301536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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She further said that Rajiv Gandhi's vision remains only partially fulfilled and that its realisation lies in the passing of this bill.

Gandhi highlighted the patience and dedication of Indian women, urging the immediate implementation of the bill. While expressing the Congress party's support for the bill, she raised concerns about the prolonged wait of Indian women for political responsibilities and called into question the appropriateness of this delay.

She said&nbsp;that the Indian National Congress demands immediate implementation of the bill and also advocates&nbsp;for a caste census and provisions for the reservation of SC, ST, and OBC women.

She warned against any delay in the implementation of the women's reservation bill, stating that it would amount to gross injustice to women.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-claims-words-socialist-and-secular-missing-from-new-constitution-copies-ruling-party-responds-637772">Congress claims words 'socialist and secular' missing from new Constitution copies, ruling party responds</a>

<h2>BJP says Congress politicising the bill</h2>

BJP MP&nbsp;Nishikant Dubey launched an attack on Congress, suggesting that the party&nbsp;was squandering the opportunity to empower women by politicising the issue.

"I thought Sonia Gandhi would speak rising above political lines but she did not mention Geeta Mukherjee and Sushma Swaraj who worked extensively for women's reservation,"&nbsp;said Nishikant Dubey.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Key words from Constitution of India dropped? | All you need to know about Preamble of Constitution

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"The bill you brought was wrong and those who protested against it were Geeta Mukherjee and Sushma Swaraj. This is BJP and PM Modi's bill," Dubey added.&nbsp;

The Lok Sabha is currently engaged in debating the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023' that was introduced in the new parliament building on Tuesday (September 19).&nbsp;

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Congress leader Sonia Gandhi declared her party's backing for the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) during the discussion on the proposed legislation advocating a 33 per cent quota for women in both the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi declared her party's backing for the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) during the discussion on the proposed legislation advocating a 33 per cent quota for women in both the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. Speaking as the Congress parliamentary party chief, she said, "On behalf of the Indian National Congress, I stand in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023." What did her speech encompass? She credited her late husband, Rajiv Gandhi, for his efforts in bringing about a constitutional amendment to bring women's representation in local body elections. She recounted how this amendment was initially defeated in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian parliament) but was eventually passed under the leadership of Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, resulting in the election of 15,00,000 women leaders across the nation in local bodies. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Women's Reservation Bill | Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi says, "This is an emotional moment of my own life as well. For the first time, Constitutional amendment to decide women's representation in local body election was brought by my life partner… pic.twitter.com/stm2Sggnor — ANI (@ANI) September 20, 2023 × She further said that Rajiv Gandhi's vision remains only partially fulfilled and that its realisation lies in the passing of this bill. Gandhi highlighted the patience and dedication of Indian women, urging the immediate implementation of the bill. While expressing the Congress party's support for the bill, she raised concerns about the prolonged wait of Indian women for political responsibilities and called into question the appropriateness of this delay. She said that the Indian National Congress demands immediate implementation of the bill and also advocates for a caste census and provisions for the reservation of SC, ST, and OBC women. She warned against any delay in the implementation of the women's reservation bill, stating that it would amount to gross injustice to women. Also read | Congress claims words 'socialist and secular' missing from new Constitution copies, ruling party responds BJP says Congress politicising the bill BJP MP Nishikant Dubey launched an attack on Congress, suggesting that the party was squandering the opportunity to empower women by politicising the issue. "I thought Sonia Gandhi would speak rising above political lines but she did not mention Geeta Mukherjee and Sushma Swaraj who worked extensively for women's reservation," said Nishikant Dubey. Also watch | Key words from Constitution of India dropped? | All you need to know about Preamble of Constitution "The bill you brought was wrong and those who protested against it were Geeta Mukherjee and Sushma Swaraj. This is BJP and PM Modi's bill," Dubey added. The Lok Sabha is currently engaged in debating the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023' that was introduced in the new parliament building on Tuesday (September 19). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sonia announces Cong support to women’s quota bill, demands fast implementation; BJP calls it politicisation

The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3). This comes a day after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in the Indian state of Maharashtra and joined the NDA government.&nbsp;

<h2>About the upcoming meeting</h2>

The announcement was made by Indian National Congress (INC) General Secretary KC Venugopal in a tweet which said, “After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-reacts-to-nephew-ajits-rebellion-says-some-fell-pray-to-bjps-tactics-611430">NCP chief Sharad Pawar reacts to nephew Ajit's rebellion, says 'some fell pray to BJP's tactics'</a>

He added, “We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.” The meeting was earlier scheduled to take place on July 13-14 in Bengaluru but it was postponed.&nbsp;

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After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023. 
 
We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.
— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1675776442398035968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Prior to this, the opposition meeting was supposed to take place in Shimla but the venue was changed to Bengaluru, said Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, last week. This also comes after Venugopal told ANI that Ajit Pawar’s rebellion is “not going to affect opposition unity,” and it is “NCP’s issue.”

<h2>Ajit Pawar’s move in Maharashtra</h2>

The announcement of the opposition meeting comes a day after NCP senior leader Ajit Pawar crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state, a post he will share with the current Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncps-ajit-pawar-joins-nda-government-takes-oath-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-611044">India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra</a>

Addressing the NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in the Indian city of Karad in Maharashtra, party chief Sharad Pawar, on Monday, said, “We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked.”&nbsp;

However, he did not mention Ajit Pawar who caused the split in the NCP. The NCP chief earlier also said he would sit with Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Uddhav Thackeray to “assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again.” 
 
 
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The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3).

The joint meeting of the opposition parties in India will be held on July 17-18 in the state of Karnataka’s Bengaluru ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, announced the Congress Party, on Monday (July 3). This comes a day after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar crossed party lines in the Indian state of Maharashtra and joined the NDA government. About the upcoming meeting The announcement was made by Indian National Congress (INC) General Secretary KC Venugopal in a tweet which said, “After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023.” ALSO READ | NCP chief Sharad Pawar reacts to nephew Ajit's rebellion, says 'some fell pray to BJP's tactics' He added, “We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward.” The meeting was earlier scheduled to take place on July 13-14 in Bengaluru but it was postponed. After a hugely successful All-Opposition meeting in Patna, we will be holding the next meeting in Bengaluru on 17 and 18 July, 2023. We are steadfast in our unwavering resolve to defeat the fascist and undemocratic forces and present a bold vision to take the country forward. — K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) July 3, 2023 × Prior to this, the opposition meeting was supposed to take place in Shimla but the venue was changed to Bengaluru, said Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, last week. This also comes after Venugopal told ANI that Ajit Pawar’s rebellion is “not going to affect opposition unity,” and it is “NCP’s issue.” Ajit Pawar’s move in Maharashtra The announcement of the opposition meeting comes a day after NCP senior leader Ajit Pawar crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state, a post he will share with the current Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. ALSO READ | India: NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government, takes oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra Addressing the NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in the Indian city of Karad in Maharashtra, party chief Sharad Pawar, on Monday, said, “We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked.” However, he did not mention Ajit Pawar who caused the split in the NCP. The NCP chief earlier also said he would sit with Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Uddhav Thackeray to “assess the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us. We will work to strengthen the party again.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian opposition parties to meet on July 17-18 in Bengaluru, says Congress party

Indian politician Rahul Gandhi has been convicted by a court in Gujarat's Surat city in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks.

Indian politician Rahul Gandhi has been convicted by a court in Gujarat's Surat city in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). After Gandhi's lawyers appealed, his sentence has been suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. Chief Judicial Magistrate HH Verma heard the final arguments last week and pronounced his decision on Thursday (March 23). Reportedly, Gandhi was present in the court when the sentencing was announced. The Indian MP from Wayanad, a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. “Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader. ALSO READ | Rahul pleads not guilty in 'why all thieves share Modi surname' defamation case Afterwards, Gujarat BJP MLA Purnesh Modi filed a criminal defamation suit, arguing that the former INC president defamed the entire Modi community with his statements. "There is a large number of people with Modi surname. Does it mean all members of the Modi community are thieves? He has defamed the community and also me as I carry the surname," said Purnesh Modi. "This is why we have moved a complaint (against Gandhi) in a Surat court under IPC sections 499 and 500," he added. After the court hearings began, the Gandhi scion pleaded not guilty and filed an application for a permanent exemption. ALSO READ | New day, new look: Rahul Gandhi trims beard, hair for Cambridge lecture Meanwhile, Gandhi's lawyers have argued that the court proceedings were 'flawed'. The counsel said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should have been made a complainant in the case, instead of Purnesh Modi as the Congress leader targetted the PM in his speech. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term

Mallikarjun Kharge was elected as the president of the Indian National Congress on Wednesday (October 19) as he defeated Shashi Tharoor in the party election, only the sixth in its history of 137 years.

Mallikarjun Kharge was elected as the president of the Indian National Congress on Wednesday (October 19) as he defeated Shashi Tharoor in the party election, only the sixth in its history of 137 years. A new era has begun for the current opposition party in India as Kharge became its first non-Gandhi president in 24 years. He will succeed Sonia Gandhi, who held the fort in recent years during several ups and downs. Sonia emerged as an anchor during crucial moments, especially when the party's stature was slightly overshadowed by the dominance of India's ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in successive elections, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policies. Mallikarjun Kharge received 7,897 votes, and his rival Shashi Tharoor managed to get only 1,072. This huge-victory margin clearly shows what the party members actually wanted as their new game plan. A total of 9,915 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates formed the electoral college to pick next party chief in a secret ballot. Over 9,500 cast their ballot at PCC offices and the AICC headquarters on Monday. Who is Mallikarjun Kharge? Kharge was born in Karnataka, a state in southwest India, on July 21 in 1942. After college, Kharge began his legal practice as a junior in Justice Shivaraj Patil's office. Starting his political career as a student union leader in college, Kharge emerged as a stalwart in Indian politics. Throughout his career, he led many fights for the rights of labourers. He fought legal cases for labour unions early in his career, many of them pro bono. He became the legal adviser to MSK Mills Employees' Union in 1969 and was also an influential labour union leader of Samyukta Majdoor Sangh. Kharge was the leader of the opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly and was the president of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee in 2008. The 80-year-old was the leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha during 2014–2019 and the leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha from February 16, 2021, to October 01, 2022. He had previously served as the minister of railways and minister of labour and employment in the Union government. He won elections a record 10 consecutive times. He first contested the Karnataka State Assembly elections in 1972 and won from the Gurmitkal constituency an unprecedented nine consecutive times (1972, 1978, 1983, 1985, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2008, 2009). G-23 leaders of Congress The change is not sudden, senior leaders have been trying for it for quite some time. After facing a series of defeats in Lok Sabha and assembly elections of several states in the past few years, some veteran leaders of the party voiced concerns and highlighted several issues. The G-23 leaders, as they came to be known, wrote a letter to interim party chief Sonia Gandhi in August 2020 and demanded active leadership and organisational rejig, which intensified with time. Congress party's new non-Gandhi card for a new game After conceding the election, Tharoor said he believed "the revival of the party begins today". To some extent, it appears to be true as voices kept emerging to give leadership to someone, not from the Gandhi family, in an attempt to end dynasty politics. In a letter, Tharoor wrote: "I have always expressed the view that these elections, irrespective of the outcome, must ultimately strengthen the party. It gives me immense personal satisfaction that this has clearly been the case." "Our democratic contest has galvanised vibrancy at all levels and has prompted a healthy and constructive discussion on change, which I believe will serve the party in good stead in the future," he added. But how exactly it will pan out, only time will tell. Especially, Kharge's plan to win elections, keeping an eye on the 2024 Lok Sabha battle. Kharge will have to accelerate planning as BJP has already moved ahead with aggressive preparations for the general elections and come up with a blueprint to analyse its position in 144 Lok Sabha constituencies where its performance was not up to the mark in the last general election. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Mallikarjun Kharge? The first non-Gandhi Congress chief in 24 years, pitted against BJP's might

Over 9,000 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates will cast their votes to choose the new Congress president on Monday in a historic decision. In its 137-year history, the party has chosen a new leader through elections six times.&nbsp;Senior party figures Mallikarjun Kharge and Shashi Tharoor are involved in the contest. While Tharoor has positioned himself as a candidate of change, senior leader Kharge is regarded as the "unofficial official candidate" of the Gandhi family.

A non-Gandhi will assume the role of party leader for the first time in 24 years. Almost 65 additional polling places spread across different states as well as the AICC headquarters in Delhi will all use secret voting systems to conduct the election.

The voters are required to check the box next to the name of the candidate they intend to support. The vote would be void if any other symbol or number were written, according to&nbsp;party Central Election Authority chairman Madhusudan Mistry.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committee-to-who-information-on-killer-cough-syrups-inadequate-525793">India committee tells WHO: Information on 'killer' cough syrups 'inadequate'</a>

Sonia Gandhi, the party's interim president, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, its general secretary, are most likely to vote at the AICC headquarters, while Rahul Gandhi and 40 other Bharat Jodo Yatris will vote at a campsite in Sanganakallu, Karnataka.

Karnataka veteran Kharge (80), who has been involved in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-liz-truss-economic-plan-was-a-mistake-says-biden-525756"> politics</a> for half a decade, stated on Sunday that, should he be chosen as the party's leader, he would not feel guilty about following the Gandhis' advise.&nbsp;Responding to allegations of being remote-controlled by Gandhis, Kharge said: "The BJP indulges in such a campaign and others follow it. Sonia Gandhi has worked for 20 years in the organisation...Rahul Gandhi was also president...they have struggled for the party and put their strength for its growth."

Parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor, 66, claimed that amid the transformation he foresees, the party's "values and loyalty" will remain the same, with the means of achieving the objectives changing. In addition, he made a subtle jab at certain top figures who were endorsing Kharge, claiming that some of them were "indulging in 'netagiri' and informing party people" who Sonia Gandhi wanted to be elected.

"If anyone has "fear or doubt" in their mind, the party has made it clear that it will be a secret ballot," Tharoor said in Lucknow and urged the Congress delegates to listen to their hearts while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaro-lula-face-off-in-first-debate-525954">voting</a> to elect the new party president.&nbsp;

The ballot boxes will be transported to Delhi after voting so that they can be counted there. On October 19, the outcomes will be released.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Over 9,000 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates will cast their votes to choose the new Congress president on Monday in a historic decision. In its 137-year history, the party has chosen a new leader through elections six times.

Over 9,000 Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) delegates will cast their votes to choose the new Congress president on Monday in a historic decision. In its 137-year history, the party has chosen a new leader through elections six times. Senior party figures Mallikarjun Kharge and Shashi Tharoor are involved in the contest. While Tharoor has positioned himself as a candidate of change, senior leader Kharge is regarded as the "unofficial official candidate" of the Gandhi family. A non-Gandhi will assume the role of party leader for the first time in 24 years. Almost 65 additional polling places spread across different states as well as the AICC headquarters in Delhi will all use secret voting systems to conduct the election. The voters are required to check the box next to the name of the candidate they intend to support. The vote would be void if any other symbol or number were written, according to party Central Election Authority chairman Madhusudan Mistry. Also read | India committee tells WHO: Information on 'killer' cough syrups 'inadequate' Sonia Gandhi, the party's interim president, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, its general secretary, are most likely to vote at the AICC headquarters, while Rahul Gandhi and 40 other Bharat Jodo Yatris will vote at a campsite in Sanganakallu, Karnataka. Karnataka veteran Kharge (80), who has been involved in politics for half a decade, stated on Sunday that, should he be chosen as the party's leader, he would not feel guilty about following the Gandhis' advise. Responding to allegations of being remote-controlled by Gandhis, Kharge said: "The BJP indulges in such a campaign and others follow it. Sonia Gandhi has worked for 20 years in the organisation...Rahul Gandhi was also president...they have struggled for the party and put their strength for its growth." Parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor, 66, claimed that amid the transformation he foresees, the party's "values and loyalty" will remain the same, with the means of achieving the objectives changing. In addition, he made a subtle jab at certain top figures who were endorsing Kharge, claiming that some of them were "indulging in 'netagiri' and informing party people" who Sonia Gandhi wanted to be elected. "If anyone has "fear or doubt" in their mind, the party has made it clear that it will be a secret ballot," Tharoor said in Lucknow and urged the Congress delegates to listen to their hearts while voting to elect the new party president. The ballot boxes will be transported to Delhi after voting so that they can be counted there. On October 19, the outcomes will be released. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Congress presidential elections: Stage set for Tharoor, Kharge face-off

Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy.

According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27. Her funeral was held on Tuesday (30th&nbsp;August).

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to Twitter to announce the demise of party president's mother. He wrote: "Smt. Sonia Gandhi's mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday".

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Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday.
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1564938856549720066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Reportedly, Sonia Gandhi is already abroad for a medical checkup along with her children Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and was also visiting her ailing mother.

The trio departed on August 23 from India. According to IANS, Rahul Gandhi will be back soon to take part in a Congress rally on September 4 in the national capital.

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi belongs to Lusiana, a historically Cimbrian-speaking village about 35 km from Vicenza in Veneto, Italy. She came to India in 1968 following her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, son of India's former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

India's&nbsp;incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to offer his condolences. Many INC leaders and party workers also offered prayers for the departed soul.

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Condolences to Sonia Gandhi Ji on the passing away of her mother, Mrs. Paola Maino. May her soul rest in peace. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the entire family.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1564968124277002242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Respected Congress President Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away. 
May Departed soul rest in peace 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankagandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/RY7pgs0oO6">pic.twitter.com/RY7pgs0oO6</a>
— Akhilesh (@AkhileshLY) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkhileshLY/status/1564957461953781760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It is learnt that @priyankagandhiji's and <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> Ji's Grand mother and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SoniaGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SoniaGandhi</a> ji 's mother has passed away. 
My heartfelt condolences to them . Prayers for her soul Rest in Peace. <a href="https://t.co/bQRCPWXRmD">pic.twitter.com/bQRCPWXRmD</a>
— Sunil Ahire (@SunilAh64145529) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunilAh64145529/status/1564952242649800704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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RIP Mrs.Paola Maino. 
 
Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and family. <a href="https://t.co/e1Tz9DIQPn">pic.twitter.com/e1Tz9DIQPn</a>
— Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCKerala/status/1564962088929628160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy. According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27.

Paolo Maino, the mother of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of India's main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, passed away in Italy. According to a PTI report, Maino, who was in her 90s, passed away at her home in Italy on August 27. Her funeral was held on Tuesday (30th August). Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to Twitter to announce the demise of party president's mother. He wrote: "Smt. Sonia Gandhi's mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday". Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away at her home in Italy on Saturday the 27th August, 2022. The funeral took place yesterday. — Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) August 31, 2022 × Reportedly, Sonia Gandhi is already abroad for a medical checkup along with her children Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and was also visiting her ailing mother. The trio departed on August 23 from India. According to IANS, Rahul Gandhi will be back soon to take part in a Congress rally on September 4 in the national capital. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi belongs to Lusiana, a historically Cimbrian-speaking village about 35 km from Vicenza in Veneto, Italy. She came to India in 1968 following her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, son of India's former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. India's incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to offer his condolences. Many INC leaders and party workers also offered prayers for the departed soul. Condolences to Sonia Gandhi Ji on the passing away of her mother, Mrs. Paola Maino. May her soul rest in peace. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the entire family. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2022 × Respected Congress President Smt. Sonia Gandhi’s mother, Mrs. Paola Maino passed away. May Departed soul rest in peace 🙏@RahulGandhi@priyankagandhi@INCIndia pic.twitter.com/RY7pgs0oO6 — Akhilesh (@AkhileshLY) August 31, 2022 × It is learnt that @priyankagandhiji's and @RahulGandhi Ji's Grand mother and #SoniaGandhi ji 's mother has passed away. My heartfelt condolences to them . Prayers for her soul Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/bQRCPWXRmD — Sunil Ahire (@SunilAh64145529) August 31, 2022 × RIP Mrs.Paola Maino. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and family. pic.twitter.com/e1Tz9DIQPn — Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) August 31, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

INC chief Sonia Gandhi's mother Paolo Maino passes away; PM Narendra Modi offers condolences

India's premier opposition party Congress has announced the schedule for the election of the post of party's national president. The election for the top party post will be held on October 17 and the counting of votes to be done, if necessary, two days later on October 19.

India's premier opposition party Congress has announced the schedule for the election of the post of party's national president. The election for the top party post will be held on October 17 and the counting of votes to be done, if necessary, two days later on October 19. The announcement was made by the party's highest decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee (CWC), which assembled for a meeting on Sunday. The CWC also said that the filing of nominations will start on September 24, with the deadline being September 30. The nominations will be scrutinised by October 1 with candidates allowed to withdraw their nominations till October 7. Reportedly, current Congress President Sonia Gandhi attended the meeting virtually as she is abroad for medical check-ups for some health problems. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, party’s central election authority chairman Madhusudan Mistry, KC Venugopal, former Union ministers Jairam Ramesh, Mukul Wasnik, P Chidambaram, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel also attended the meeting. Read more: Indian MP trolled for carrying a Louis Vuitton bag while addressing inflation & commodity price rise It is pertinent to note that the announcement of the party's presidential elections comes in the backdrop of several high-profile Congress leaders exiting the party, citing lack of leadership at the top. Notably, it was the recent resignation of Jammu & Kashmir Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad that created the most buzz as experts cast aspersions over the Gandhi family's ability to lead the party out of the rut it finds itself in currently. Calling Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi for his "immaturity" and for "demolishing the consultative mechanism" of the party, Azad in his letter to the Congress president Sonia wrote: "Unfortunately, after the entry of Rahul Gandhi into politics and particularly after January 2013, when he was appointed Vice President by you (Sonia Gandhi), the entire consultative mechanism which existed earlier was demolished by him." "The leadership in the past eight years has tried to foist a non-serious individual at the helm of the party. The entire organizational election process is a farce and a sham. Before starting Bharath Jodo Yatra, the leadership should have undertaken a Congress Jodo exercise across the country," he added. Read more: Ghulam Nabi Azad quits Congress: As it happened Akin to Azad, Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill, in his resignation letter, had also echoed similar sentiments. "In the past 8 years, I have not taken anything from Congress but only poured into the party. Today when I am being pushed to bow down before people because they are close to the top leadership. This is not acceptable to me," said Shergill in his letter. Read more: Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill quits, says sycophancy is eating the party like termites (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Congress to elect new president, announces election schedule

Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation. Reportedly, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of India's opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), made a speech where he allegedly misgendered Murmu’s designation.

The INC leader allegedly called Murmu a ‘Rashtrapatni’, inviting the wrath of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is pertinent to note that a President is called ‘Rashtrapati’ in Hindi which is a gender-neutral term. Anyone taking the office, whether a man, woman or any other person is referred to as the same.

The Constitution makes no difference in the gender of the occupant of the position either. However, Choudhary allegedly changed the last part of the word ‘pati’ meaning husband, to ‘patni’, meaning wife.

Ruling party corners&nbsp;Chowdhury and INC

As soon as the lower house of the parliament met on Thursday (July 28), senior BJP leader Smriti Irani raised the issue and cornered INC.

“A tribal woman from a poor family who created history is being continuously demeaned by the Congress,” she told the reporters.&nbsp;

Irani further claimed that it was INC President Sonia Gandhi who&nbsp;sanctioned Chowdhury’s remark and that both should issue an apology for disrespecting the entire tribal community, women, the poor and the downtrodden.

“Sonia Gandhi sanctioned the humiliation of a woman at the highest constitutional office in the country,” said Irani.&nbsp;

Irani was backed up by her colleague and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who stated, “I demand an apology from the President of Congress party who herself is a woman but has allowed her leader to speak like that. Sonia Gandhi should come before the nation and apologise for insulting the President.”&nbsp;

Chowdhury issues a clarification

Soon, a clamour ensued and the house was adjourned for a brief period. After the controversy snowballed, Chowdhury took to Twitter to issue a clarification.&nbsp;

The INC leader tweeted a video where he could be heard saying, “Whoever is the President of India, be it Brahmin, or Adivasi, the President is the President for us. Our respect is for the post.”

He further added, “Yesterday when we were protesting at Vijay Chowk, reporters asked us where we wanted to go. I told them I want to visit the President’s house. Just once, I said “Rashtrapatni”...The reporter repeated it to me and I said I might have said that by mistake and it would be better if they didn’t broadcast it. They (BJP) are creating a furore because of this. I made a mistake, just once and in one word.”

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Who is Droupadi Murmu?

It is important to note that, for the first time in Indian history,&nbsp;a tribal leader has held the top constitutional post. Murmu comes from&nbsp;India’s poorest but resource-rich state of Odisha. She&nbsp;belongs to the Santhal tribe, which&nbsp;is spread over four states and is India’s largest scheduled tribe after the Bhils and Gonds. Her election is seen as a milestone for the tribals of the country.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-story-of-indias-15th-president-droupadi-murmu-500635">Gravitas: The story of India's 15th President Droupadi Murmu</a>

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(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation.

Barely three days after Droupadi Murmu took oath as India’s 15th President, the tribal leader has found herself amid a controversy surrounding her constitutional designation. Reportedly, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of India's opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), made a speech where he allegedly misgendered Murmu’s designation. The INC leader allegedly called Murmu a ‘Rashtrapatni’, inviting the wrath of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It is pertinent to note that a President is called ‘Rashtrapati’ in Hindi which is a gender-neutral term. Anyone taking the office, whether a man, woman or any other person is referred to as the same. The Constitution makes no difference in the gender of the occupant of the position either. However, Choudhary allegedly changed the last part of the word ‘pati’ meaning husband, to ‘patni’, meaning wife. Ruling party corners Chowdhury and INC As soon as the lower house of the parliament met on Thursday (July 28), senior BJP leader Smriti Irani raised the issue and cornered INC. “A tribal woman from a poor family who created history is being continuously demeaned by the Congress,” she told the reporters. Irani further claimed that it was INC President Sonia Gandhi who sanctioned Chowdhury’s remark and that both should issue an apology for disrespecting the entire tribal community, women, the poor and the downtrodden. “Sonia Gandhi sanctioned the humiliation of a woman at the highest constitutional office in the country,” said Irani. Irani was backed up by her colleague and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who stated, “I demand an apology from the President of Congress party who herself is a woman but has allowed her leader to speak like that. Sonia Gandhi should come before the nation and apologise for insulting the President.” Chowdhury issues a clarification Soon, a clamour ensued and the house was adjourned for a brief period. After the controversy snowballed, Chowdhury took to Twitter to issue a clarification. The INC leader tweeted a video where he could be heard saying, “Whoever is the President of India, be it Brahmin, or Adivasi, the President is the President for us. Our respect is for the post.” He further added, “Yesterday when we were protesting at Vijay Chowk, reporters asked us where we wanted to go. I told them I want to visit the President’s house. Just once, I said “Rashtrapatni”...The reporter repeated it to me and I said I might have said that by mistake and it would be better if they didn’t broadcast it. They (BJP) are creating a furore because of this. I made a mistake, just once and in one word.” pic.twitter.com/fvBNLmI7ah — Adhir Chowdhury (@adhirrcinc) July 28, 2022 × Who is Droupadi Murmu? It is important to note that, for the first time in Indian history, a tribal leader has held the top constitutional post. Murmu comes from India’s poorest but resource-rich state of Odisha. She belongs to the Santhal tribe, which is spread over four states and is India’s largest scheduled tribe after the Bhils and Gonds. Her election is seen as a milestone for the tribals of the country. Watch: Gravitas: The story of India's 15th President Droupadi Murmu × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Rashtrapatni' remark: BJP leader Smriti Irani demands apology from Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi. Kumar joined the party last year in September. He held his first press conference as a member of the party to discuss the Agnipath military recruitment programmes. He criticised the programme and claimed that poor persons who want to join the Indian armed services would be affected, reported by Hindustan Times.

Kumar earlier took part in the demonstrations Congress held against the programme. He was one of the 20 party leaders that spoke to the media about the programme on June 26 across the country. He even gave a press conference in Patna.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-nupur-sharma-single-hiddenly-responsible-for-unfortunate-incidents-indian-sc-on-prophet-row-493486">BJP's Nupur Sharma ‘single-handedly’ responsible for unfortunate incidents: Indian SC on Prophet row</a>

A functionary who wished to remain unnamed, “Emphasis is more on Hindi and bilingual speakers of Hindi and English as our political message cannot spread long enough by only using English.”&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Udaipur beheading linked to Pakistani extremist group

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According to many people with the knowledge of the situation, Kumar who is renowned for his command over Hindi, is expected to gain more notoriety as a result for the party beginning to emphasise on Hindi communications while battling with the Bhartiya Janta Party in the north Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journey-towards-ones-decline-raj-thackeray-posts-sarcastic-tweet-after-uddhavs-resignation-493252">'...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation</a>

Kumar claimed that the government does not comprehend the suffering or the annoyance of unemployed youngsters. He further added, “Why is Prime Minister Narendra Modi silent on the issue? The government talked about 'one rank, one pension', but has come up with a scheme of 'no rank, no pension'. The scheme is neither in favour of the country nor good for army job aspirants,” PTI reported.

The Congress party is all set for new group of spokespersons with gender and geographical balance probably be youngsters.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies) 
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The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi.

The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi. Kumar joined the party last year in September. He held his first press conference as a member of the party to discuss the Agnipath military recruitment programmes. He criticised the programme and claimed that poor persons who want to join the Indian armed services would be affected, reported by Hindustan Times. Kumar earlier took part in the demonstrations Congress held against the programme. He was one of the 20 party leaders that spoke to the media about the programme on June 26 across the country. He even gave a press conference in Patna. Also read | BJP's Nupur Sharma ‘single-handedly’ responsible for unfortunate incidents: Indian SC on Prophet row A functionary who wished to remain unnamed, “Emphasis is more on Hindi and bilingual speakers of Hindi and English as our political message cannot spread long enough by only using English.” Watch | Gravitas: Udaipur beheading linked to Pakistani extremist group According to many people with the knowledge of the situation, Kumar who is renowned for his command over Hindi, is expected to gain more notoriety as a result for the party beginning to emphasise on Hindi communications while battling with the Bhartiya Janta Party in the north Delhi. Also read | '...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation Kumar claimed that the government does not comprehend the suffering or the annoyance of unemployed youngsters. He further added, “Why is Prime Minister Narendra Modi silent on the issue? The government talked about 'one rank, one pension', but has come up with a scheme of 'no rank, no pension'. The scheme is neither in favour of the country nor good for army job aspirants,” PTI reported. The Congress party is all set for new group of spokespersons with gender and geographical balance probably be youngsters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress may choose Kanhaiya Kumar as national spokesperson amid focus on Hindi

Just a few days before India's much-awaited Assembly elections in India's northern state Uttar Pradesh (UP), a politician switched camps and caused a massive stir.&nbsp;

Once a star campaigner of India's opposition party Indian National Congress in UP, Ratanjit Pratap Narain Singh recently joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - the ruling party in the state and the country.&nbsp;

His move was a massive setback to Congress, which is looking forward to reviving itself in the state by winning more seats than previous elections.&nbsp;

In Uttar Pradesh, Congress has remained out of power for three decades and only managed seven seats in the 403-member state Assembly in 2017.

<img alt="RPN SIngh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="525a4026-6230-44d8-b8b9-718a01cd3dca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/20220125108L_0.jpg" />

RPN Singh, who is a prominent figure in the politics of eastern UP, was named as a "star campaigner" by the Congress party.

He&nbsp;resigned in a dramatic way as he posted his resignation to party chief Sonia Gandhi on Twitter.&nbsp;He wrote in the caption: "Today, at a time, we are celebrating the formation of our great Republic, I begin a new chapter in my political journey. Jai Hind."&nbsp;

RPN Singh, popularly known as 'Raja Saheb of Padrauna' (a scion of the royal family from Padrauna), became youth Congress President of Uttar Pradesh in 1997 and AICC Secretary in 2003.&nbsp;

Singh was elected to Lok Sabha in 2009 as he was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kushinagar constituency in the fifteenth Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014.&nbsp;

<img alt="RPN SIngh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9140d2d4-e89a-487b-9ebf-eada0739135f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/20220125106L.jpg" />

The move might favour BJP to a large extent as the party is trying to compensate the vacuum of a 'kurmi' leader (OBC in eastern Uttar Pradesh) after Swami Prasad Mourya's recent exit from the party.&nbsp;

Reports have also stated that the Yogi Adityanath government may field Singh from Padrauna Assembly constituency under Kushi Nagar district, the seat he represented thrice from 1996 to 2007.&nbsp;

Singh had defeated Maurya from Kushinagar in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls. However, Singh lost both the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Kushinagar.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Maurya, who is the sitting MLA of the Vidhan Sabha recently joined the Samajwadi Party (SP) - a party gunning to win the upcoming polls in the leadership of Akhilesh Yadav.&nbsp;

For the unversed, in the 2017 UP Assembly polls, Maurya had won the constituency for BJP. If he fights against RPN Singh from the Padrauna constituency, it will be a battle to watch out for.&nbsp;

After resigning, Singh further said, "This is a new beginning for me and I look forward to my contribution to nation-building under the visionary leadership &amp; guidance of the Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi, BJP president Shri @JPNadda ji &amp; Honourable Home Minister @AmitShah ji."&nbsp;

Also, it is important to note that Singh has definitely spiced up the battle in a small city in UP, but his switch might not impact the narratives pan-UP.&nbsp;

But quitting the party is a big blow because he was considered close to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi who are facing conflicts within the party&nbsp;as some big names have joined other camps&nbsp;in recent years - such as Jyotiraditya Scindia.&nbsp;

RPN Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Jitin Prasada, Sachin Pilot were once considered significant faces in the youth congress. Recently, Prasada also quit.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Just a few days before India's much-awaited Assembly elections in India's northern state Uttar Pradesh (UP), a politician switched camps and caused a massive stir.

Just a few days before India's much-awaited Assembly elections in India's northern state Uttar Pradesh (UP), a politician switched camps and caused a massive stir. Once a star campaigner of India's opposition party Indian National Congress in UP, Ratanjit Pratap Narain Singh recently joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - the ruling party in the state and the country. His move was a massive setback to Congress, which is looking forward to reviving itself in the state by winning more seats than previous elections. In Uttar Pradesh, Congress has remained out of power for three decades and only managed seven seats in the 403-member state Assembly in 2017. RPN Singh, who is a prominent figure in the politics of eastern UP, was named as a "star campaigner" by the Congress party. He resigned in a dramatic way as he posted his resignation to party chief Sonia Gandhi on Twitter. He wrote in the caption: "Today, at a time, we are celebrating the formation of our great Republic, I begin a new chapter in my political journey. Jai Hind." RPN Singh, popularly known as 'Raja Saheb of Padrauna' (a scion of the royal family from Padrauna), became youth Congress President of Uttar Pradesh in 1997 and AICC Secretary in 2003. Singh was elected to Lok Sabha in 2009 as he was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kushinagar constituency in the fifteenth Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014. The move might favour BJP to a large extent as the party is trying to compensate the vacuum of a 'kurmi' leader (OBC in eastern Uttar Pradesh) after Swami Prasad Mourya's recent exit from the party. Reports have also stated that the Yogi Adityanath government may field Singh from Padrauna Assembly constituency under Kushi Nagar district, the seat he represented thrice from 1996 to 2007. Singh had defeated Maurya from Kushinagar in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls. However, Singh lost both the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Kushinagar. On the other hand, Maurya, who is the sitting MLA of the Vidhan Sabha recently joined the Samajwadi Party (SP) - a party gunning to win the upcoming polls in the leadership of Akhilesh Yadav. For the unversed, in the 2017 UP Assembly polls, Maurya had won the constituency for BJP. If he fights against RPN Singh from the Padrauna constituency, it will be a battle to watch out for. After resigning, Singh further said, "This is a new beginning for me and I look forward to my contribution to nation-building under the visionary leadership & guidance of the Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi, BJP president Shri @JPNadda ji & Honourable Home Minister @AmitShah ji." Also, it is important to note that Singh has definitely spiced up the battle in a small city in UP, but his switch might not impact the narratives pan-UP. But quitting the party is a big blow because he was considered close to Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi who are facing conflicts within the party as some big names have joined other camps in recent years - such as Jyotiraditya Scindia. RPN Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Jitin Prasada, Sachin Pilot were once considered significant faces in the youth congress. Recently, Prasada also quit. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Assembly Election: How RPN Singh's move made small city in UP a battle to watch out for

The making of a republic: Negotiations that led to creation of India as a republic

The Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress on December 27, 1911, became historic after Jana Gana Mana was sung publicly for the first time. The national anthem is also titled "the morning song of India".

Jana Gana Mana, the National anthem of India, was first publicly sung 110 years ago today

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief.

Channi also said the party is supreme and the government follows the party's ideology.

"I have spoken to Sidhu sahab over the telephone today. Party is supreme and the government accepts the party's ideology and follows that. (I told him that) you should come, sit and talk,&nbsp;he told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ousted-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-meets-home-minister-bjp-leader-shah-sparks-defection-rumours-416855">Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister &amp; BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours</a>

"The (state) president is the head of the party. The head has to sit among the family," he said, adding that Sidhu had agreed to meet.

Sidhu, who had abruptly put in his papers plunging the Congress into a fresh crisis, on Wednesday broke his silence, questioning the appointments of the director-general of police, state's advocate general and tainted leaders.

Channi, however, defended the appointments, saying he had acted on the basis of feedback from the party members.

I have no objection or any ego in anything,&nbsp;he said, indicating that he was ready to review the decisions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/minister-in-indias-punjab-quits-after-navjot-sidhu-resigns-as-state-congress-chief-416667">Minister in India's Punjab quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief</a>

Asked what was Sidhu's response to his offer to talk it out, Channi said that Sidhu told him that he would give the time for the meeting.

"We will sit with him and talk," he said.

To a question, Channi said Minister Pargat Singh and some other leaders went to meet Sidhu.

Asked if Sidhu had done the right thing, Channi said he could not comment on it.

I will never deviate from the issues of the people of Punjab,&nbsp;he asserted.

He said, Whatever feedback we got from colleagues and others and whosoever can be appointed, we appointed. But the decisions will be taken according to the will of the people of Punjab.

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief.

Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday reached out to a miffed Navjot Singh Sidhu and offered to resolve issues through talks, a day after the former cricketer resigned as the Punjab Congress chief. Channi also said the party is supreme and the government follows the party's ideology. "I have spoken to Sidhu sahab over the telephone today. Party is supreme and the government accepts the party's ideology and follows that. (I told him that) you should come, sit and talk, he told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting. Also read | Ousted Punjab CM Amarinder Singh meets home minister & BJP leader Shah, sparks defection rumours "The (state) president is the head of the party. The head has to sit among the family," he said, adding that Sidhu had agreed to meet. Sidhu, who had abruptly put in his papers plunging the Congress into a fresh crisis, on Wednesday broke his silence, questioning the appointments of the director-general of police, state's advocate general and tainted leaders. Channi, however, defended the appointments, saying he had acted on the basis of feedback from the party members. I have no objection or any ego in anything, he said, indicating that he was ready to review the decisions. Also read | Minister in India's Punjab quits after Navjot Sidhu resigns as state Congress chief Asked what was Sidhu's response to his offer to talk it out, Channi said that Sidhu told him that he would give the time for the meeting. "We will sit with him and talk," he said. To a question, Channi said Minister Pargat Singh and some other leaders went to meet Sidhu. Asked if Sidhu had done the right thing, Channi said he could not comment on it. I will never deviate from the issues of the people of Punjab, he asserted. He said, Whatever feedback we got from colleagues and others and whosoever can be appointed, we appointed. But the decisions will be taken according to the will of the people of Punjab.

Punjab CM Channi reaches out to Sidhu, offers to talk it out

Congress MP from Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari H Vasanthakumar has died due to Coronavirus. The 70-year old leader was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai on August 10 with a Coronavirus infection.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Indian Congress MP H Vasanthakumar dies Of COVID-19 In Chennai

Significance and evolution of the Indian national flag

Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi on Monday said that her party will bear the cost for rail travel of every needy migrant worker and labourer to their respective home towns during the lockdown.

She said that Congress had taken the decision as the Centre and Rail Ministry had completely ignored party's repeated requests to ensure provisions of "safe and free rail travel of migrant workers and labourers to their home-towns."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-30-till-may-17-what-is-prohibited-and-what-will-be-allowed-296478" hreflang="en">Lockdown 3.0 till May 17: What is prohibited and what will be allowed</a>

"Indian National Congress has taken a decision that every Pradesh Congress Committee shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker and migrant labourer and shall take necessary steps in this regard. This will be the Indian National Congress' humble contribution in service of our compatriots and to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with them," a statement issued by the Congress interim President read.

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-railways-issues-guidelines-for-shramik-special-trains-296353" hreflang="en">Indian Railways issues guidelines for 'shramik special trains'</a>

She stressed upon the importance of workers terming them "ambassadors of our nation`s growth" and alleged "when the Rail Ministry has the largesse to donate Rs. 151 Crores to the PM's Corona fund, then why can`t these essential members of our nation`s fabric be given a fraction of the same courtesy, especially free rail travel, at this hour of acute distress?"

"Our workers and labourers form the backbone of our economy. Their hard work andsacrifice are the foundation of our nation," the statement read.

She equated the lockdown phase with that of post-partition and said, "Post the partition of 1947, this is the first time India witnessed a tragedy with such a massive human cost as thousands of migrant workers and labourers were forced to walk home several hundred kilometres on foot- without food, without medicines, without money, without transportation, without anything except for the desire to return to their families and loved ones."

On March 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The lockdown was later extended till May 3 and then for another two weeks till May 17.

In an order issued on May 1, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) allowed the movement of migrant workers, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places through special trains.

Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi on Monday said that her party will bear the cost for rail travel of every needy migrant worker and labourer to their respective home towns during the lockdown.

Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi on Monday said that her party will bear the cost for rail travel of every needy migrant worker and labourer to their respective home towns during the lockdown. She said that Congress had taken the decision as the Centre and Rail Ministry had completely ignored party's repeated requests to ensure provisions of "safe and free rail travel of migrant workers and labourers to their home-towns." Also read: Lockdown 3.0 till May 17: What is prohibited and what will be allowed "Indian National Congress has taken a decision that every Pradesh Congress Committee shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker and migrant labourer and shall take necessary steps in this regard. This will be the Indian National Congress' humble contribution in service of our compatriots and to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with them," a statement issued by the Congress interim President read. Also read: Indian Railways issues guidelines for 'shramik special trains' She stressed upon the importance of workers terming them "ambassadors of our nation`s growth" and alleged "when the Rail Ministry has the largesse to donate Rs. 151 Crores to the PM's Corona fund, then why can`t these essential members of our nation`s fabric be given a fraction of the same courtesy, especially free rail travel, at this hour of acute distress?" "Our workers and labourers form the backbone of our economy. Their hard work andsacrifice are the foundation of our nation," the statement read. She equated the lockdown phase with that of post-partition and said, "Post the partition of 1947, this is the first time India witnessed a tragedy with such a massive human cost as thousands of migrant workers and labourers were forced to walk home several hundred kilometres on foot- without food, without medicines, without money, without transportation, without anything except for the desire to return to their families and loved ones." On March 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3 and then for another two weeks till May 17. In an order issued on May 1, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) allowed the movement of migrant workers, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places through special trains.

Congress to pay for rail tickets of every needy migrant worker amid lockdown: Sonia Gandhi

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

"I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive &amp; inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> &amp; others express deep concern. <a href="https://t.co/M6WQ0tojxG">pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1253877689926193153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-sonia-gandhi-urges-government-to-provide-relief-package-for-msme-sector-294217">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector</a>

According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

"In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants. "I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle. As #COVID spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive & inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri @RahulGandhi & others express deep concern. pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG — Congress (@INCIndia) April 25, 2020 × The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year. Also read: Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. "In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

No need to halt DA/DR hikes at this stage, says Manmohan Singh in a video message

Rajasthan Health Minister Dr. Raghu Sharma on Tuesday said that the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) that stood at 7.62 per cent during BJP's tenure in 2014 has been reduced to 5.55 per cent in 2019.

"The Infant Mortality Rate in the state was 7.62 per cent in 2014, 7.17 per cent in 2015, 6.66 per cent in 2016, 6 per cent in 2017 and 6.11 per cent in 2018. We have reduced it to 5.55 per cent in 2019. IMR was 7.62 per cent during BJP's tenure and it has been brought down by the current Rajasthan government," said Dr. Sharma.

He also stressed on the need to create awareness in this regard and said, "There is a need for mass awareness regarding infant's care, especially anemic child, underweight or premature baby. There is a need for awareness among the people that they should immediately seek clinical support in case their infant is weak or not well. It's extremely saddening even if one infant dies. In case there is any negligence in the reports (Kota infant death case), we won't spare that person".

The minister further added that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-is-well-says-nitish-kumar-on-bjp-jdu-alliance-in-bihar-271202">BJP</a> in its tenure should have introduced a centralised oxygen system in every hospital, however, nothing of this sort was done.

"They (BJP) themselves did not do anything. The IMR during their term was much higher, whereas we have reduced IMR and Maternal Mortality Ratio. We are bringing in more facilities in the hospitals across the state. The government has focused majorly on the health sector," Dr. Sharma stated that the state government's aim is to open medical colleges across 33 districts of Rajasthan and the government is working very systematically in this sector.

Meanwhile, a BJP delegation appointed by the party's president visited the J Lon hospital in Kota on Tuesday.

BJP working <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-led-government-restored-special-status-of-himachal-jp-nadda-270602">President JP Nadda</a> had on Monday appointed four women MPs to form a delegation which will investigate the death of newborns at a hospital in Kota in Rajasthan.

The delegation consisting of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs will visit Kota tomorrow and prepare a report after reviewing the situation.

BJP MPs Jaskaur Meena, Kanta Kardam, Locket Chatterjee and Bharati Pawar have been appointed as members of the delegation by Nadda.

Rajasthan Health Minister Dr. Raghu Sharma on Tuesday said that the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) that stood at 7.62 per cent during BJP's tenure in 2014 has been reduced to 5.

Rajasthan Health Minister Dr. Raghu Sharma on Tuesday said that the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) that stood at 7.62 per cent during BJP's tenure in 2014 has been reduced to 5.55 per cent in 2019. "The Infant Mortality Rate in the state was 7.62 per cent in 2014, 7.17 per cent in 2015, 6.66 per cent in 2016, 6 per cent in 2017 and 6.11 per cent in 2018. We have reduced it to 5.55 per cent in 2019. IMR was 7.62 per cent during BJP's tenure and it has been brought down by the current Rajasthan government," said Dr. Sharma. He also stressed on the need to create awareness in this regard and said, "There is a need for mass awareness regarding infant's care, especially anemic child, underweight or premature baby. There is a need for awareness among the people that they should immediately seek clinical support in case their infant is weak or not well. It's extremely saddening even if one infant dies. In case there is any negligence in the reports (Kota infant death case), we won't spare that person". The minister further added that BJP in its tenure should have introduced a centralised oxygen system in every hospital, however, nothing of this sort was done. "They (BJP) themselves did not do anything. The IMR during their term was much higher, whereas we have reduced IMR and Maternal Mortality Ratio. We are bringing in more facilities in the hospitals across the state. The government has focused majorly on the health sector," Dr. Sharma stated that the state government's aim is to open medical colleges across 33 districts of Rajasthan and the government is working very systematically in this sector. Meanwhile, a BJP delegation appointed by the party's president visited the J Lon hospital in Kota on Tuesday. BJP working President JP Nadda had on Monday appointed four women MPs to form a delegation which will investigate the death of newborns at a hospital in Kota in Rajasthan. The delegation consisting of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs will visit Kota tomorrow and prepare a report after reviewing the situation. BJP MPs Jaskaur Meena, Kanta Kardam, Locket Chatterjee and Bharati Pawar have been appointed as members of the delegation by Nadda.

IMR reduced to 5.55 per cent in 2019: Rajasthan Health Minister

December 28 in history: From foundation of Indian National Congress to natural disasters of Messina

A day after JMM-Congress-RJD alliance scored an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jmm-led-alliance-ahead-of-majority-mark-in-jharkhand-raghubar-das-trailing-269777">absolute majority</a> in Jharkhand assembly polls, Congress' Jharkhand in-charge, RPN Singh, called a meeting of the newly-elected party MLAs at their office in Ranchi on Tuesday.

The alliance defeated the BJP by marking victory on 47 seats in the 81-member assembly elections. The JMM won 30 seats while Congress and RJD bagged 16 and one seats, respectively.

WATCH: Gravitas: Jharkhand: Another State slips out of BJP's hold

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BJP, which held power in the state, only managed to bad 25 seats losing not only power but also the tag of the single-largest party in the state.

The JMM legislature party is scheduled to elect its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jharkhands-new-chief-minister-hemant-soren-269825">leader</a> today.

After initial trends had indicated a victory for the JMM-led alliance on Monday, RPN Singh accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Raghubar Das of not addressing key issues like inflation, farmers' distress&nbsp;and unemployment.

A day after JMM-Congress-RJD alliance scored an absolute majority in Jharkhand assembly polls, Congress' Jharkhand in-charge, RPN Singh, called a meeting of the newly-elected party MLAs at their office in Ranchi on Tuesday.

A day after JMM-Congress-RJD alliance scored an absolute majority in Jharkhand assembly polls, Congress' Jharkhand in-charge, RPN Singh, called a meeting of the newly-elected party MLAs at their office in Ranchi on Tuesday. The alliance defeated the BJP by marking victory on 47 seats in the 81-member assembly elections. The JMM won 30 seats while Congress and RJD bagged 16 and one seats, respectively. WATCH: Gravitas: Jharkhand: Another State slips out of BJP's hold × BJP, which held power in the state, only managed to bad 25 seats losing not only power but also the tag of the single-largest party in the state. The JMM legislature party is scheduled to elect its leader today. After initial trends had indicated a victory for the JMM-led alliance on Monday, RPN Singh accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Raghubar Das of not addressing key issues like inflation, farmers' distress and unemployment.

Congress Jharkhand in-charge RPN Singh calls meeting of MLAs in Ranchi

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The Congress party is likely to get its new headquarters this year on its Foundation Day which falls on December 28.

The new office, which is coming up at 9, Kotla Road in central Delhi, will be named "Indira Gandhi Bhawan" after late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It will be inaugurated by interim President Sonia Gandhi, a top party source said.

As of now, the AICC is located at 24, Akbar Road which has been serving as the party's headquarters for the last four decades. The upcoming party office on Kotla road will be a six-floor building near the BJP's national office on Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg.

Interestingly the new Congress office also has two gates one which opens on the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Marg but the party has decided to make its Kotla Road entrance as its main gate, which will also serve as the official address of the party.

Besides 24 Akbar Road headquarters, the party has other addresses in the national capital including 26 Akbar Road where Sewa Dal a wing of the party has its main office and 5 Raisina Road where Youth Congress and NSUI have their offices.

The Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, which is in charge of land and buildings in the capital, has already given notice to Congress to vacate the bungalows. The new party headquarters will also be the new address for Sewa Dal, NSUI and IYC.&nbsp;
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The Congress party is likely to get its new headquarters this year on its Foundation Day which falls on December 28. The new office, which is coming up at 9, Kotla Road in central Delhi, will be named "Indira Gandhi Bhawan" after late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

The Congress party is likely to get its new headquarters this year on its Foundation Day which falls on December 28. The new office, which is coming up at 9, Kotla Road in central Delhi, will be named "Indira Gandhi Bhawan" after late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It will be inaugurated by interim President Sonia Gandhi, a top party source said. As of now, the AICC is located at 24, Akbar Road which has been serving as the party's headquarters for the last four decades. The upcoming party office on Kotla road will be a six-floor building near the BJP's national office on Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg. Interestingly the new Congress office also has two gates one which opens on the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Marg but the party has decided to make its Kotla Road entrance as its main gate, which will also serve as the official address of the party. Besides 24 Akbar Road headquarters, the party has other addresses in the national capital including 26 Akbar Road where Sewa Dal a wing of the party has its main office and 5 Raisina Road where Youth Congress and NSUI have their offices. The Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, which is in charge of land and buildings in the capital, has already given notice to Congress to vacate the bungalows. The new party headquarters will also be the new address for Sewa Dal, NSUI and IYC.

Congress likely to get new headquarters in New Delhi on its Foundation Day in December

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.”&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&amp;K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.”&nbsp;

Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign.

It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice.&nbsp;

The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process.

After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-discomfiture-and-disarray-in-congress-2786246">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over.

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest. Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.” Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu & Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.” Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign. It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice. The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process. After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Discomfiture and disarray in Congress

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state.

The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence.

After the meeting, Pramod Tiwari and Jitin Prasad said several issues related to the party organisation including strengthening the cadre base in UP came up during the discussion.

According to a party source, the upcoming Assembly by-polls in UP, the appointment of a new state party president and formation of district committees were among the issues which came up.

Congress is keen to contest the by-elections on its own, the source said.

"Suggestions were sought from the leaders on the ways to strengthen the party at the grassroot level," the source added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state. The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state. The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence. After the meeting, Pramod Tiwari and Jitin Prasad said several issues related to the party organisation including strengthening the cadre base in UP came up during the discussion. According to a party source, the upcoming Assembly by-polls in UP, the appointment of a new state party president and formation of district committees were among the issues which came up. Congress is keen to contest the by-elections on its own, the source said. "Suggestions were sought from the leaders on the ways to strengthen the party at the grassroot level," the source added.

Priyanka Gandhi meets UP Congress leaders; discusses political situation

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-alliance-going-strong-despite-efforts-to-destabilise-kumaraswamy-235169&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiYn5j2ta_jAhWJaCsKHbwZB-QQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ZkjNUdt89h4W1Ee09jN6I">Congress</a> president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-feels-like-coming-home-says-rahul-gandhi-on-his-first-visit-to-amethi-after-lok-sabha-elections-234731">Rahul Gandhi</a> in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel.

Rahul arrived at the Court to appear in connection with the case.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader had informed through a tweet that he would be appearing in another <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-defamation-case-rahul-gandhi-pleads-not-guilty-232947&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYstyztq_jAhXTfCsKHT5KDXAQFjACegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_ph_LmpPiyLaitcOhnMtC">case filed against him by his "political opponents in the RSS and BJP</a>."

"I am in Ahmedabad today, to appear in another case filed against me by my political opponents in the RSS/BJP.&nbsp;

I thank them for providing me with these platforms and opportunities to take my ideological battle against them to the public.&nbsp;

Satyameva Jayate," he said in the tweet.

Last year in August, two separate criminal defamation cases were filed against Rahul and party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala for their remark that Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank (ADCB) had exchanged Rs 745.58 crore in just five days during demonetisation.

"Within a mere five days of the implementation of the demonetisation drive, old denominations worth Rs 3,118 crore were deposited in 11 district corporative banks that had links to the BJP leaders.&nbsp;

The most noteworthy of them was Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank, whose directors include BJP president Amit Shah," Surjewala had said.

He had further said that the bank, which is chaired by Ajay Patel, a close associate of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, received Rs 745.58 crore from November 10 to November 14.&nbsp;

Before appearing in connection with the criminal defamation suit, Rahul also visited Swathi restaurant in Ahmedabad where he was seen interacting with people and clicking selfies with them.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel.

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel. Rahul arrived at the Court to appear in connection with the case. Earlier in the day, Congress leader had informed through a tweet that he would be appearing in another case filed against him by his "political opponents in the RSS and BJP." "I am in Ahmedabad today, to appear in another case filed against me by my political opponents in the RSS/BJP. I thank them for providing me with these platforms and opportunities to take my ideological battle against them to the public. Satyameva Jayate," he said in the tweet. Last year in August, two separate criminal defamation cases were filed against Rahul and party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala for their remark that Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank (ADCB) had exchanged Rs 745.58 crore in just five days during demonetisation. "Within a mere five days of the implementation of the demonetisation drive, old denominations worth Rs 3,118 crore were deposited in 11 district corporative banks that had links to the BJP leaders. The most noteworthy of them was Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank, whose directors include BJP president Amit Shah," Surjewala had said. He had further said that the bank, which is chaired by Ajay Patel, a close associate of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, received Rs 745.58 crore from November 10 to November 14. Before appearing in connection with the criminal defamation suit, Rahul also visited Swathi restaurant in Ahmedabad where he was seen interacting with people and clicking selfies with them.

Ahmedabad Court grants bail to Rahul Gandhi in criminal defamation case

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-turmoil-congress-mla-injured-in-brawl-notices-sent-to-4-lawmakers-for-skipping-clp-meet-191682">Karnataka Assembly</a>. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.&nbsp;

However, Kumar said he was not aware of any such resignation, adding that no leader contacted him.

"Nobody has contacted me or met me. I have got nothing to do with political developments and I will accept resignations even if 20 members resign. I`m not aware of any such resignation. I haven`t met any leader, not even Anand Singh," Kumar told reporters in Kolar.&nbsp;

Sources said as many as five MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Congress' Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, a scuffle had taken place between Singh and his party colleague JN Ganesh. An MLA from Kampli, Ganesh had allegedly assaulted Singh on January 19 following a heated argument at a resort near Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Singh was later admitted to a hospital, while Ganesh was suspended on the directions of state Congress president Dinesh Gundu Rao.

&nbsp;Singh`s resignation comes at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the Janata Dal (Secular) and Congress coalition in the state. However, the two parties have repeatedly said there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term.

In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners.

&nbsp;Earlier this month, Congress leader K.H. Muniyappa had said his party will contest alone in the local body elections next year. The statement had come days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-an-understanding-signed-between-jds-congress-hd-deve-gowda-takes-a-u-turn-229242">JD(S) president H D Deve Gowda</a> lashed out the "Congress` behaviour" while claiming that mid-term elections would "no doubt" be held in the state.

"There is no doubt that there will be mid-term polls. They (Congress) said they will support us for five years but look at their behaviour now. Our people are smart," he had said.&nbsp;

However, the former prime minister later downplayed his comments, saying his remark was about the local body elections and not for the Assembly polls.

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the Karnataka Assembly. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the Karnataka Assembly. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar. However, Kumar said he was not aware of any such resignation, adding that no leader contacted him. "Nobody has contacted me or met me. I have got nothing to do with political developments and I will accept resignations even if 20 members resign. I`m not aware of any such resignation. I haven`t met any leader, not even Anand Singh," Kumar told reporters in Kolar. Sources said as many as five MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Congress' Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil. Earlier this year, a scuffle had taken place between Singh and his party colleague JN Ganesh. An MLA from Kampli, Ganesh had allegedly assaulted Singh on January 19 following a heated argument at a resort near Bengaluru. Singh was later admitted to a hospital, while Ganesh was suspended on the directions of state Congress president Dinesh Gundu Rao. Singh`s resignation comes at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the Janata Dal (Secular) and Congress coalition in the state. However, the two parties have repeatedly said there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term. In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners. Earlier this month, Congress leader K.H. Muniyappa had said his party will contest alone in the local body elections next year. The statement had come days after JD(S) president H D Deve Gowda lashed out the "Congress` behaviour" while claiming that mid-term elections would "no doubt" be held in the state. "There is no doubt that there will be mid-term polls. They (Congress) said they will support us for five years but look at their behaviour now. Our people are smart," he had said. However, the former prime minister later downplayed his comments, saying his remark was about the local body elections and not for the Assembly polls.

Congress MLA Anand Singh resigns from Karnataka Assembly; Speaker 'unaware'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-will-make-no-difference-to-bjps-poll-prospects-in-up-yogi-adityanath-203705">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath </a>on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state.

"In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime.

In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere &nbsp;Delhi, Italy or England &nbsp;they have to comment in order to remain in the news."

Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics.

"UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page.

"Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet.

While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration."

A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state. On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state. "In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime. In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere Delhi, Italy or England they have to comment in order to remain in the news." Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics. "UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page. "Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet. While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration." A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.

CM Yogi Adityanath hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over tweet on rising crime in Uttar Pradesh

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-elections-2019-rash-of-resignations-in-congress-after-election-result-disaster-221242">Congress</a> has drawn a blank in 18 states and Union Territories -- an indicator of its decimation in the Lok Sabha polls.

This is the Congress' second straight rout in Lok Sabha elections after it was decimated in the 2014 polls when the party ended up with a tally of 44 seats.

The Congress has been completely routed in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Dadar and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Delhi, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand.

Training his guns on the Congress, BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday said the grand old party had drawn a "big zero" in 17 states and Union Territories, while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-nehru-and-indira-modi-becomes-third-prime-minister-to-return-to-power-with-huge-mandate-221300">saffron party</a> got more than 50 per cent votes in 17 states.

Murmurs have already started within the party over taking responsibility for its poor performance across the country, with some of its leaders already sending in their resignation.

Watch: Did Congress misread the polls?

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Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar and Odisha Congress president Niranjan Patnaik announced their resignation in the wake of the party's electoral debacle in their respective states.&nbsp;

According to sources, the party has convened a meeting of the Congress Working Committee, its highest decision-making body, at 11 am on Saturday. 
Rahul Gandhi is likely to offer his resignation at the meet, party sources said.

The top Congress leadership will deliberate on the reasons for the loss and assess them. It bagged only 52 seats in this election.&nbsp;

The Congress has drawn a blank in 18 states and Union Territories -- an indicator of its decimation in the Lok Sabha polls. This is the Congress' second straight rout in Lok Sabha elections after it was decimated in the 2014 polls when the party ended up with a tally of 44 seats.

The Congress has drawn a blank in 18 states and Union Territories -- an indicator of its decimation in the Lok Sabha polls. This is the Congress' second straight rout in Lok Sabha elections after it was decimated in the 2014 polls when the party ended up with a tally of 44 seats. The Congress has been completely routed in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Dadar and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Delhi, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand. Training his guns on the Congress, BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday said the grand old party had drawn a "big zero" in 17 states and Union Territories, while the saffron party got more than 50 per cent votes in 17 states. Murmurs have already started within the party over taking responsibility for its poor performance across the country, with some of its leaders already sending in their resignation. Watch: Did Congress misread the polls? × Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar and Odisha Congress president Niranjan Patnaik announced their resignation in the wake of the party's electoral debacle in their respective states. According to sources, the party has convened a meeting of the Congress Working Committee, its highest decision-making body, at 11 am on Saturday. Rahul Gandhi is likely to offer his resignation at the meet, party sources said. The top Congress leadership will deliberate on the reasons for the loss and assess them. It bagged only 52 seats in this election.

Congress draws a blank in 18 states and Union Territories

An election watchdog has pointed out discrepancies in the income tax details submitted by the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/prakash-raj-to-campaign-for-aap-in-delhi-says-people-should-come-together-to-reclaim-the-republic-215873&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfzp-84oviAhVKqY8KHfTcDrc4ChAWMAF6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0RJiYolyGJDgyFUATA7Tqw">Aam Aadmi Party</a> (AAP) and Congress candidates in their nominations for the Panaji Assembly bypoll in Goa.

In a release issued on Tuesday, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR)said the affidavits filed by AAP nominee Valmiki Naik for the 2017 state Assembly elections and the upcoming bypoll show a difference of over Rs 1 lakh in his I-T returns for the financial year 2015-16.

In his affidavit for the Panaji bypoll, Naik has shown his I-T returns as Rs 3,91,341 for 2015-16, while in his 2017 submission, he mentioned a figure of Rs 2,89,810 for the same period, the ADR said.

It also pointed out that Congress candidate Atanasio Monserratte in his affidavit for the upcoming bypoll has mentioned his I-T returns for 2015-16 as Rs 24,50,076, which is Rs 34,746 less than the Rs 24,84,822 figure submitted by him in his 2017 Assembly election affidavit.

While comparing his 2017 and 2019 affidavits, though Monserratte's net worth went down by about Rs 9 crore in last two years, he declared Rs 1,69,84,756 as his I-T returns for 2017-18 and Rs 33,33,822 cash in hand each (self and spouse) on the date of filing nomination on April 29, the ADR said.

When contacted, North Goa's district election officer R Menaka said she will look into the matter. Naik and Monserratte could not be contacted for their response to ADR's findings.

In the 2017 Assembly polls, BJP leader Siddharth Kunkolienkar won the Panaji seat located in North Goa district, while Monserratte, who then contested as an Independent, stood second, and Naik came third.

Kunkolienkar vacated the seat later that year to allow then chief minister Manohar Parrikar to contest and enter the 40-member Goa Assembly. The Panaji Assembly bypoll was necessitated due to the death of sitting MLA Parrikar on March 17.

The BJP has nominated Kunkolienkar to take on Monserrate, who is now contesting on Congress' ticket, and Naik in the bypoll to be held May 19.&nbsp;

An election watchdog has pointed out discrepancies in the income tax details submitted by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress candidates in their nominations for the Panaji Assembly bypoll in Goa.

An election watchdog has pointed out discrepancies in the income tax details submitted by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress candidates in their nominations for the Panaji Assembly bypoll in Goa. In a release issued on Tuesday, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR)said the affidavits filed by AAP nominee Valmiki Naik for the 2017 state Assembly elections and the upcoming bypoll show a difference of over Rs 1 lakh in his I-T returns for the financial year 2015-16. In his affidavit for the Panaji bypoll, Naik has shown his I-T returns as Rs 3,91,341 for 2015-16, while in his 2017 submission, he mentioned a figure of Rs 2,89,810 for the same period, the ADR said. It also pointed out that Congress candidate Atanasio Monserratte in his affidavit for the upcoming bypoll has mentioned his I-T returns for 2015-16 as Rs 24,50,076, which is Rs 34,746 less than the Rs 24,84,822 figure submitted by him in his 2017 Assembly election affidavit. While comparing his 2017 and 2019 affidavits, though Monserratte's net worth went down by about Rs 9 crore in last two years, he declared Rs 1,69,84,756 as his I-T returns for 2017-18 and Rs 33,33,822 cash in hand each (self and spouse) on the date of filing nomination on April 29, the ADR said. When contacted, North Goa's district election officer R Menaka said she will look into the matter. Naik and Monserratte could not be contacted for their response to ADR's findings. In the 2017 Assembly polls, BJP leader Siddharth Kunkolienkar won the Panaji seat located in North Goa district, while Monserratte, who then contested as an Independent, stood second, and Naik came third. Kunkolienkar vacated the seat later that year to allow then chief minister Manohar Parrikar to contest and enter the 40-member Goa Assembly. The Panaji Assembly bypoll was necessitated due to the death of sitting MLA Parrikar on March 17. The BJP has nominated Kunkolienkar to take on Monserrate, who is now contesting on Congress' ticket, and Naik in the bypoll to be held May 19.

Association of Democratic Reform finds discrepancies in affidavits of AAP, Congress candidates

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