Scores of posters were spotted in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad saying businessman Robert Vadra is "welcome" to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls from the constituency. The posters were put up by Moradabad Youth Congress.&nbsp;

Robert Vadra is married to AICC general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Vadra on Sunday said he may play "a larger role in serving the people" after the ongoing cases against him are over, sparking speculation that he could join politics.&nbsp;

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In a Facebook post on Sunday, Vadra wrote about years and months he spent campaigning and working in different parts of the country, mainly in Uttar Pradesh, and claimed that it gave him a feeling to do more for the people.

"All these years of experience and learning cannot be just wasted and should be put to better use... Once all these accusations and allegations are over, I feel I should dedicate a larger role in serving the people," Vadra noted.&nbsp;

Congress party, however, played down the suggestion that Vadra wanted to join politics, saying he has long been associated with NGOs and worked for the society and that it is everyone's duty to use their qualities to serve the people, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

"Will he need Modi ji (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) permission to do work related to people?" Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said at a press conference when asked about Vadra's "hint" that he may join politics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Scores of posters were spotted in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad saying businessman Robert Vadra is "welcome" to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls from the constituency.

Scores of posters were spotted in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad saying businessman Robert Vadra is "welcome" to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls from the constituency. The posters were put up by Moradabad Youth Congress. Robert Vadra is married to AICC general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Meanwhile, Vadra on Sunday said he may play "a larger role in serving the people" after the ongoing cases against him are over, sparking speculation that he could join politics. Posters saying 'Robert Vadra ji you are welcome to contest elections from Moradabad Lok Sabha constituency' seen in Moradabad. pic.twitter.com/cK1feeRIfN — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 25, 2019 × In a Facebook post on Sunday, Vadra wrote about years and months he spent campaigning and working in different parts of the country, mainly in Uttar Pradesh, and claimed that it gave him a feeling to do more for the people. "All these years of experience and learning cannot be just wasted and should be put to better use... Once all these accusations and allegations are over, I feel I should dedicate a larger role in serving the people," Vadra noted. Congress party, however, played down the suggestion that Vadra wanted to join politics, saying he has long been associated with NGOs and worked for the society and that it is everyone's duty to use their qualities to serve the people, news agency PTI reported. "Will he need Modi ji (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) permission to do work related to people?" Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said at a press conference when asked about Vadra's "hint" that he may join politics. (With inputs from PTI)

Uttar Pradesh: Posters in Moradabad read Robert Vadra is 'welcome' to contest Lok Sabha polls 

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power.

"If we are laid back and if you lose the momentum for having a strong good majority government, we will be facing a setback of 50 years at least," Sitharaman said while speaking at an informal interaction organised by Thinkers Forum in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Sitharaman added that India would be disfavouring first-time voters if the BJP's work is not recognised.

"And for those of us who were born in the 20th century, we will be doing a disservice to those who will be voting for the first time. Are we going to do disfavour for the youth of this country by bringing back forces that have absolutely no delectation to this country and dedication to clean politics and dedication to putting the nation before themselves?" she asked.

Lauding Prime Minister Modi, the Defence Minister said, "In the history of any nation, it's not very often that you get a leadership like what you have got know."

She claimed that there was not even a whisper of corruption from 2014-2019.

"Last five years have been intense working. You see the Prime Minister without a day's break working and all of us from our ministries being pulled up and inspired. One very obvious and noteworthy difference between the previous and current government is that there was not a whisper of corruption under Modi ji's tenure. So that's why the Congress president (Rahul Gandhi) probably feels the need to point out or pick issues," she said.

Stating that the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were essential for India, she said, "2019 elections to the Lok Sabha is certainly not just any other election. And in this election, we really cannot take it lightly. We each will have to be a campaigner. We have to do 10 times more than what we have done in 2013-14. The BJP will fight an election. Particularly, under the leadership of Modi ji, we will definitely give a very good fight and win."

Sitharaman also said that the opposition's allegations were not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to levy allegations on the BJP government.

"All facts checked, it is true that between 2014 and today vis-a-vis 2004 and 2013, except for Kashmir, has there been any terrorist/minor bomb attack anywhere else in the country? Let's talk on facts. Opposition allegations are not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to make allegations."

"There could have been truth in the allegations that India would run out of ammunition if there was a continuous war for 10 days. But in the last five years, things have changed. The problems of the defence sector were so severe that the forces did not have bulletproof jackets, ammunition for tankers and technology upgradation for the Air Force. For the first two years, Mr Manohar Parrikar spent time understanding the problems of the forces. Next, Mr Arun Jaitley prepared a report on that. After I took over, I could take it forward, as the report was ready."

Responding to a question on the dastardly Pulwama terror attack, Sitharaman said that the anger, disappointment and the emotions of the people to strike back are well absorbed by the government and the Prime Minister.

"Pakistan is the fountainhead of terrorism not just against India but many parts of the globe. Pakistan feels very much under stress since it had been economically isolated by the world community. More can be done on this front," she said.

Attacking Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said that during 10 years of UPA rule, not even a single aircraft was added to the Air Force, and added that during Prime Minister Modi's tenure, a due process was followed and all the details were given to the Supreme Court and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) regarding the Rafale deal. "September 19 your first Rafale is coming into this country," said Sitharaman.&nbsp;

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power.

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power. "If we are laid back and if you lose the momentum for having a strong good majority government, we will be facing a setback of 50 years at least," Sitharaman said while speaking at an informal interaction organised by Thinkers Forum in Bengaluru on Sunday. Sitharaman added that India would be disfavouring first-time voters if the BJP's work is not recognised. "And for those of us who were born in the 20th century, we will be doing a disservice to those who will be voting for the first time. Are we going to do disfavour for the youth of this country by bringing back forces that have absolutely no delectation to this country and dedication to clean politics and dedication to putting the nation before themselves?" she asked. Lauding Prime Minister Modi, the Defence Minister said, "In the history of any nation, it's not very often that you get a leadership like what you have got know." She claimed that there was not even a whisper of corruption from 2014-2019. "Last five years have been intense working. You see the Prime Minister without a day's break working and all of us from our ministries being pulled up and inspired. One very obvious and noteworthy difference between the previous and current government is that there was not a whisper of corruption under Modi ji's tenure. So that's why the Congress president (Rahul Gandhi) probably feels the need to point out or pick issues," she said. Stating that the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were essential for India, she said, "2019 elections to the Lok Sabha is certainly not just any other election. And in this election, we really cannot take it lightly. We each will have to be a campaigner. We have to do 10 times more than what we have done in 2013-14. The BJP will fight an election. Particularly, under the leadership of Modi ji, we will definitely give a very good fight and win." Sitharaman also said that the opposition's allegations were not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to levy allegations on the BJP government. "All facts checked, it is true that between 2014 and today vis-a-vis 2004 and 2013, except for Kashmir, has there been any terrorist/minor bomb attack anywhere else in the country? Let's talk on facts. Opposition allegations are not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to make allegations." "There could have been truth in the allegations that India would run out of ammunition if there was a continuous war for 10 days. But in the last five years, things have changed. The problems of the defence sector were so severe that the forces did not have bulletproof jackets, ammunition for tankers and technology upgradation for the Air Force. For the first two years, Mr Manohar Parrikar spent time understanding the problems of the forces. Next, Mr Arun Jaitley prepared a report on that. After I took over, I could take it forward, as the report was ready." Responding to a question on the dastardly Pulwama terror attack, Sitharaman said that the anger, disappointment and the emotions of the people to strike back are well absorbed by the government and the Prime Minister. "Pakistan is the fountainhead of terrorism not just against India but many parts of the globe. Pakistan feels very much under stress since it had been economically isolated by the world community. More can be done on this front," she said. Attacking Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said that during 10 years of UPA rule, not even a single aircraft was added to the Air Force, and added that during Prime Minister Modi's tenure, a due process was followed and all the details were given to the Supreme Court and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) regarding the Rafale deal. "September 19 your first Rafale is coming into this country," said Sitharaman.

Country will face setback of 50 years if Modi not voted to power: Sitharaman

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

The BJP is allocated five of the 40 seats in the state.

The announcement was made by AIADMK coordinator and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam and Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal, party election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, who described it as a "mega alliance".

"Under the AIADMK-led alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJP gets five Lok Sabha seats," said&nbsp;Panneerselvam.

He said as per the pact, the BJP would support AIADMK candidates in the coming Assembly by-elections in 21 constituencies.

This came after the second and final round of discussions held here by the two parties that also involved Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

Earlier in the day, the AIADMK clinched a deal with the PMK, offering the Vanniyar-based party seven out of 40 seats, including one in the neighbouring union territory of Puducherry.

In the 235-member Assembly, the AIADMK has 115 members followed by the DMK with 88, Congress eight, one of the IUML, one independent, the speaker and 20 vacant seats (18 disqualified and two dead). Besides, there is a nominated member.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections. The BJP is allocated five of the 40 seats in the state. The announcement was made by AIADMK coordinator and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam and Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal, party election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, who described it as a "mega alliance". "Under the AIADMK-led alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJP gets five Lok Sabha seats," said Panneerselvam. He said as per the pact, the BJP would support AIADMK candidates in the coming Assembly by-elections in 21 constituencies. This came after the second and final round of discussions held here by the two parties that also involved Chief Minister K Palaniswami. Earlier in the day, the AIADMK clinched a deal with the PMK, offering the Vanniyar-based party seven out of 40 seats, including one in the neighbouring union territory of Puducherry. In the 235-member Assembly, the AIADMK has 115 members followed by the DMK with 88, Congress eight, one of the IUML, one independent, the speaker and 20 vacant seats (18 disqualified and two dead). Besides, there is a nominated member. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: AIADMK partners with BJP in Tamil Nadu

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto.

The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Addressing a public gathering at Assam BJP State office in Guwahati, Shah said, "Assam cannot prosper without Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). We passed it in the Lok Sabha but the Centre failed to table it in the Rajya Sabha. The CAB will be added in our manifesto of the Lok Sabha elections and we are committed to take the Bill to the far reaches of Assam."

The BJP chief further took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and said, "The BJP is a not regional party, it's a party based on ideology, spreading its wings from Kamrup to Kutch and Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The party follows the Constitution and maintains democracy. There are parties which gradually became parties of families. And even if the son (Rahul Gandhi) of the party leader is brainless, he has to join politics and become a president of that party. Now, he even wants to become the Prime Minister."

"Parties without internal democracy cannot strengthen democracy of the nation. Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, the future name in this row is still left," Shah added.

Comparing the BJP with the Congress party, Shah asserted, "Internal democracy is quite strong in the BJP because elections are held periodically for all internal positions. The BJP is not the party of any family, it’s a party of karyakartas."

"The Northeast contribution was 20 per cent after independence but it came to 2.3 under the rule of Congress. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose leadership, Northeast was given special credit and all the sectors starting from roads, railways and education sector, the state witnessed immense development. We brought Ayushman Bharat scheme, provided free electricity, gas connections and toilets to crores of people across the country. Most importantly, we provided security and peace to the Northeast region."

"Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, people in Northeast are living in peace without fear of any bomb blast or terror attack," he added.

Praising the efforts of BJP Karyakartas in Northeast, Shah said, "BJP karyakartas are working day and night to see more development in Assam. We brought NRC (National Register of Citizens) and soon we have also formed a committee for Schedule 6, which will be implemented by the next Modi government."

Earlier in the day, Shah also addressed a public rally at Lakhimpur in Assam, where he said, “We will not allow Assam to become another Kashmir. That is why we have brought NRC. We will deport each and every infiltrator with the help of NRC. We are committed to that.”

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto. The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said, his party will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 general elections' manifesto. The Citizenship Amendment Bill provides Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Addressing a public gathering at Assam BJP State office in Guwahati, Shah said, "Assam cannot prosper without Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). We passed it in the Lok Sabha but the Centre failed to table it in the Rajya Sabha. The CAB will be added in our manifesto of the Lok Sabha elections and we are committed to take the Bill to the far reaches of Assam." The BJP chief further took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi and said, "The BJP is a not regional party, it's a party based on ideology, spreading its wings from Kamrup to Kutch and Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The party follows the Constitution and maintains democracy. There are parties which gradually became parties of families. And even if the son (Rahul Gandhi) of the party leader is brainless, he has to join politics and become a president of that party. Now, he even wants to become the Prime Minister." "Parties without internal democracy cannot strengthen democracy of the nation. Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, the future name in this row is still left," Shah added. Comparing the BJP with the Congress party, Shah asserted, "Internal democracy is quite strong in the BJP because elections are held periodically for all internal positions. The BJP is not the party of any family, it’s a party of karyakartas." "The Northeast contribution was 20 per cent after independence but it came to 2.3 under the rule of Congress. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose leadership, Northeast was given special credit and all the sectors starting from roads, railways and education sector, the state witnessed immense development. We brought Ayushman Bharat scheme, provided free electricity, gas connections and toilets to crores of people across the country. Most importantly, we provided security and peace to the Northeast region." "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, people in Northeast are living in peace without fear of any bomb blast or terror attack," he added. Praising the efforts of BJP Karyakartas in Northeast, Shah said, "BJP karyakartas are working day and night to see more development in Assam. We brought NRC (National Register of Citizens) and soon we have also formed a committee for Schedule 6, which will be implemented by the next Modi government." Earlier in the day, Shah also addressed a public rally at Lakhimpur in Assam, where he said, “We will not allow Assam to become another Kashmir. That is why we have brought NRC. We will deport each and every infiltrator with the help of NRC. We are committed to that.”

BJP will include Citizenship Amendment Bill in its 2019 poll manifesto: Amit Shah

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.&nbsp;

"I think this is a very good sign because such confidence gives a&nbsp;boost to development," Modi said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He went on to tell his fellow parliamentarians that we "will be proud of this sixteenth Lok Sabha, as it saw the highest number of women members (44) elected to the house."&nbsp;

Modi added that this Lok Sabha also "passed laws to fight the menace of black money and corruption" and the GST bill.

On the other hand, he said, this Lok Sabha "has also put an end to over 1,400 laws, it had become a jungle-like situation with too many laws. This is a good beginning but more work needs to be done... <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-want-you-to-become-pm-again-mulayam-singh-yadav-to-narendra-modi-197166">for which Mulayam Singh Yadav has given me his blessing</a>".&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: 3 dashak ke baad ek purn bahumat wali sarkaar bani aur azaadi ke baad pehli baar Congress gotra ki nahi hai aisi sarkaar bani hai. Congress gotra nahi aisi milijuli pehli sarkaar Atal ji ki thi aur aisi purn bahumat wali sarkaar 2014 mein bani <a href="https://t.co/Nh0Ss62fZY">pic.twitter.com/Nh0Ss62fZY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095638215501979649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On the last day of parliament, Modi referred back to when he had first entered the house, saying he had learnt so much in parliament. "Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai (For the first time I understood that there is a difference between hugging someone and going for his throat.")

And he once again lashed out at his favourite target of attack — Congress president Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

He harked back to when Rahul had said he would make such a big announcement that there would be an earthquake. None came, Modi said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He also referred to when Congress MPs had flown paper planes in parliament to protest against the Rafale deal. The dignity of democracy is so high, Modi said Wednesday, that no plane could touch it.&nbsp;

And of course he brought up Rahul's wink in parliament.

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PM Modi: Mein pehli baar yahan aya, bahut si cheezein jaanne ko mili. Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai. Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain. <a href="https://t.co/tuSHdq5bHn">pic.twitter.com/tuSHdq5bHn</a>
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"Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain," Modi said.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high. "I think this is a very good sign because such confidence gives a boost to development," Modi said on Wednesday. He went on to tell his fellow parliamentarians that we "will be proud of this sixteenth Lok Sabha, as it saw the highest number of women members (44) elected to the house." Modi added that this Lok Sabha also "passed laws to fight the menace of black money and corruption" and the GST bill. On the other hand, he said, this Lok Sabha "has also put an end to over 1,400 laws, it had become a jungle-like situation with too many laws. This is a good beginning but more work needs to be done... for which Mulayam Singh Yadav has given me his blessing". PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: 3 dashak ke baad ek purn bahumat wali sarkaar bani aur azaadi ke baad pehli baar Congress gotra ki nahi hai aisi sarkaar bani hai. Congress gotra nahi aisi milijuli pehli sarkaar Atal ji ki thi aur aisi purn bahumat wali sarkaar 2014 mein bani pic.twitter.com/Nh0Ss62fZY — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × On the last day of parliament, Modi referred back to when he had first entered the house, saying he had learnt so much in parliament. "Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai (For the first time I understood that there is a difference between hugging someone and going for his throat.") And he once again lashed out at his favourite target of attack — Congress president Rahul Gandhi. He harked back to when Rahul had said he would make such a big announcement that there would be an earthquake. None came, Modi said on Wednesday. He also referred to when Congress MPs had flown paper planes in parliament to protest against the Rafale deal. The dignity of democracy is so high, Modi said Wednesday, that no plane could touch it. And of course he brought up Rahul's wink in parliament. PM Modi: Mein pehli baar yahan aya, bahut si cheezein jaanne ko mili. Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai. Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain. pic.twitter.com/tuSHdq5bHn — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × "Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain," Modi said.

Country's confidence at all-time high, Modi says on last day of parliament before elections

The CPI(M)-led Left Front in West Bengal will organise a rally in Kolkata on Sunday to give a call to oust Trinamool Congress in the state and the BJP at the Centre.

The rally of the Left Front at Brigade Parade grounds on February 3 comes 15 days after Mamata Banerjee headed TMC's had organised <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/west-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjees-grand-opposition-rally-who-said-what-191441#farooq-abdullah-national-conference-leader-191420">mega opposition parties rally </a>at the same venue on January 19 last.

Though there were more than two dozen leaders of 22 opposition parties, the Left parties had kept a distance from the TMC rally.

"We will give the call to oust TMC in Bengal and the BJP at the Centre. The people of this country are fed up with the Modi government, they want a change," CPI(M) state secretary Surya Kanta Mishra said.

The CPI(M)-led front is pulling all stops to ensure that the February 3 rally turns out to be a massive success. The event is also seen as an attempt by the Left to regain its lost ground in West Bengal.

The Left Front comprises of 10 parties including CPI(M), RSP, CPI and Forward Bloc.

Once a formidable force in West Bengal, the Left Front which lost to the TMC in 2011, ending a 34-year regime in the state, is now fighting hard to make their presence felt in the state.

The Left in last several elections has witnessed a sharp decline in its vote share with BJP outsmarting it to become the main opposition in Bengal.

The role of Left parties in national politics largely depends on the number of seats it will win from Bengal.

In 2004, when CPI(M)-led Left front played a pivotal role in forming the UPA-I government by winning 35 Lok Sabha seats from the state. Nationally, the front had won 62 seats.

In 2014, the CPI(M) had won just two seats in Bengal, while Left Front secured 11 seats.

From flags, posters, slogans and roadside meetings to social media messages on Twitter and Facebook, the party is making all efforts to reach out to the masses.

Apart from senior Left leaders, Kanhaiya Kumar, the former JNU students union president, will be one of the key speakers at the rally.

The CPI(M)-led Left Front in West Bengal will organise a rally in Kolkata on Sunday to give a call to oust Trinamool Congress in the state and the BJP at the Centre.

The CPI(M)-led Left Front in West Bengal will organise a rally in Kolkata on Sunday to give a call to oust Trinamool Congress in the state and the BJP at the Centre. The rally of the Left Front at Brigade Parade grounds on February 3 comes 15 days after Mamata Banerjee headed TMC's had organised mega opposition parties rally at the same venue on January 19 last. Though there were more than two dozen leaders of 22 opposition parties, the Left parties had kept a distance from the TMC rally. "We will give the call to oust TMC in Bengal and the BJP at the Centre. The people of this country are fed up with the Modi government, they want a change," CPI(M) state secretary Surya Kanta Mishra said. The CPI(M)-led front is pulling all stops to ensure that the February 3 rally turns out to be a massive success. The event is also seen as an attempt by the Left to regain its lost ground in West Bengal. The Left Front comprises of 10 parties including CPI(M), RSP, CPI and Forward Bloc. Once a formidable force in West Bengal, the Left Front which lost to the TMC in 2011, ending a 34-year regime in the state, is now fighting hard to make their presence felt in the state. The Left in last several elections has witnessed a sharp decline in its vote share with BJP outsmarting it to become the main opposition in Bengal. The role of Left parties in national politics largely depends on the number of seats it will win from Bengal. In 2004, when CPI(M)-led Left front played a pivotal role in forming the UPA-I government by winning 35 Lok Sabha seats from the state. Nationally, the front had won 62 seats. In 2014, the CPI(M) had won just two seats in Bengal, while Left Front secured 11 seats. From flags, posters, slogans and roadside meetings to social media messages on Twitter and Facebook, the party is making all efforts to reach out to the masses. Apart from senior Left leaders, Kanhaiya Kumar, the former JNU students union president, will be one of the key speakers at the rally.

West Bengal: Left to organise rally Sunday to show strength before Lok Sabha polls

The All India Trinamool Congress on Sunday announced that the party will fight upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 14 States including Odisha.

Addressing media persons in Bhubaneswar, TMC leader Derek O'Brien said, "We are ready to fight elections. The TMC will fight coming Lok Sabha polls in 14 states including Odisha. January 19 was a historic day as all anti-BJP parties united on that day. In 2019, the BJP will be finished."

While talking about West Bengal, the TMC leader said, "In West Bengal, we will fight on 42 Lok Sabha seats."

In December last year, while addressing an event in Mumbai the BJP president Amit Shah had said that the party was aiming to win 23 seats out of the 42 in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had won only two seats--Asansol and Darjeeling--in the state.

The All India Trinamool Congress on Sunday announced that the party will fight upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 14 States including Odisha. Addressing media persons in Bhubaneswar, TMC leader Derek O'Brien said, "We are ready to fight elections.

The All India Trinamool Congress on Sunday announced that the party will fight upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 14 States including Odisha. Addressing media persons in Bhubaneswar, TMC leader Derek O'Brien said, "We are ready to fight elections. The TMC will fight coming Lok Sabha polls in 14 states including Odisha. January 19 was a historic day as all anti-BJP parties united on that day. In 2019, the BJP will be finished." While talking about West Bengal, the TMC leader said, "In West Bengal, we will fight on 42 Lok Sabha seats." In December last year, while addressing an event in Mumbai the BJP president Amit Shah had said that the party was aiming to win 23 seats out of the 42 in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had won only two seats--Asansol and Darjeeling--in the state.

Trinamool Congress to fight Lok Sabha polls in 14 states

The Congress on Wednesday appointed Priyanka Gandhi Vadra general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (East). Besides this, Jyotiraditya Scindia has been appointed party general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (West).&nbsp;

KC Venugopal will take over as Congress general secretary (Organisation).

"The party appreciates the contribution of Shri Ashok Gehlot as AICC General Secretary (Organisation)," the letter, signed by Rajasthan chief minister and incumbent party general secretary Ashok Gehlot read.&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will take charge with effect in the first week of February.&nbsp;

Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad&nbsp;has been appointed Congress general secretary for Haryana with immediate effect.&nbsp;

"The party appreciates the contribution of Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad as AICC General Secretary of Uttar Pradesh. He will now be AICC General Secretary for Haryana with immediate effect," the letter stated.

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Priyanka Gandhi Vadra appointed Congress General Secretary for Uttar Pradesh East. <a href="https://t.co/rkl57AFVzw">pic.twitter.com/rkl57AFVzw</a>
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Congress president Rahul Gandhi reacted to the latest development saying,&nbsp;"Priyanka Gandhi and Jyotiraditya Scindia are powerful leaders. We wanted the young leaders to change Uttar Pradesh politics."

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi: Priyanka Gandhi and Jyotiraditya Scindia are powerful leaders. We wanted the young leaders to change Uttar Pradesh politics. <a href="https://t.co/fnMeWLyxIm">pic.twitter.com/fnMeWLyxIm</a>
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The appointment initiates Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's active participation in country's politics right ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

The decision is seen as significant and pivotal for Congress' electoral plan ahead of this year's general elections.&nbsp;

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The move closely follows the announcement of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsp-sp-to-contest-38-seats-each-alliance-will-give-sleepless-nights-to-modi-shah-says-mayawati-189793">SP-BSP alliance</a> in Uttar Pradesh earlier this month, leaving Congress out in cold.&nbsp;

Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to contest 38 each of Uttar Pradesh's 80 seats leaving two seats for other parties in the alliance.&nbsp;

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Priyanka Gandhi: Mujhe personally bahut khushi ho rahi hai ki woh ab mere saath kaam karengi, woh bahut karmat hain. Jyotiraditya Scindia bhi bahut dynamic leader hain. BJP wale ghabraaye hue hain. <a href="https://t.co/8QpfJjJdO3">pic.twitter.com/8QpfJjJdO3</a>
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SP-BSP alliance will not field any candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli and will leave both the seats for the Congress, BSP chief Mayawati said earlier this month.&nbsp;

In an interview with news agency PTI, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-kept-out-of-up-alliance-to-correct-poll-arithmetic-akhilesh-yadav-191942">SP chief Akhilesh Yadav</a>&nbsp;said that despite his "immense respect" for Congress President Rahul Gandhi, the grand old party was kept out of the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh to correct "poll arithmetic" in order to defeat the BJP.

Without ruling out the possibility of working with the Congress after polls, Akhilesh said he has good relations with the party and would be "happy" if the next prime minister was from his home state.

Asked if the SP was open to working with Congress after the polls, Akhilesh said, "We can't answer it right now. We will answer it after the elections. But I can say this much that the country wants a new prime minister and it will have one after polls".

Meanwhile, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday clarified that the Congress has no "enmity" with BSP supremo Mayawati and that Congress will "cooperate with them wherever possible."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Congress on Wednesday appointed Priyanka Gandhi Vadra general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (East). Besides this, Jyotiraditya Scindia has been appointed party general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (West).

The Congress on Wednesday appointed Priyanka Gandhi Vadra general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (East). Besides this, Jyotiraditya Scindia has been appointed party general secretary for Uttar Pradesh (West). KC Venugopal will take over as Congress general secretary (Organisation). "The party appreciates the contribution of Shri Ashok Gehlot as AICC General Secretary (Organisation)," the letter, signed by Rajasthan chief minister and incumbent party general secretary Ashok Gehlot read. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will take charge with effect in the first week of February. Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad has been appointed Congress general secretary for Haryana with immediate effect. "The party appreciates the contribution of Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad as AICC General Secretary of Uttar Pradesh. He will now be AICC General Secretary for Haryana with immediate effect," the letter stated. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra appointed Congress General Secretary for Uttar Pradesh East. pic.twitter.com/rkl57AFVzw — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2019 × Congress president Rahul Gandhi reacted to the latest development saying, "Priyanka Gandhi and Jyotiraditya Scindia are powerful leaders. We wanted the young leaders to change Uttar Pradesh politics." Congress President Rahul Gandhi: Priyanka Gandhi and Jyotiraditya Scindia are powerful leaders. We wanted the young leaders to change Uttar Pradesh politics. pic.twitter.com/fnMeWLyxIm — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2019 × The appointment initiates Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's active participation in country's politics right ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The decision is seen as significant and pivotal for Congress' electoral plan ahead of this year's general elections. Jyotiraditya Scindia appointed Congress General Secretary for Uttar Pradesh West. KC Venugopal appointed Congress General Secretary (Organisation). https://t.co/IkrLwCzwLV — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2019 × The move closely follows the announcement of the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh earlier this month, leaving Congress out in cold. Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to contest 38 each of Uttar Pradesh's 80 seats leaving two seats for other parties in the alliance. Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Priyanka Gandhi: Mujhe personally bahut khushi ho rahi hai ki woh ab mere saath kaam karengi, woh bahut karmat hain. Jyotiraditya Scindia bhi bahut dynamic leader hain. BJP wale ghabraaye hue hain. pic.twitter.com/8QpfJjJdO3 — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2019 × SP-BSP alliance will not field any candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli and will leave both the seats for the Congress, BSP chief Mayawati said earlier this month. In an interview with news agency PTI, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said that despite his "immense respect" for Congress President Rahul Gandhi, the grand old party was kept out of the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh to correct "poll arithmetic" in order to defeat the BJP. Without ruling out the possibility of working with the Congress after polls, Akhilesh said he has good relations with the party and would be "happy" if the next prime minister was from his home state. Asked if the SP was open to working with Congress after the polls, Akhilesh said, "We can't answer it right now. We will answer it after the elections. But I can say this much that the country wants a new prime minister and it will have one after polls". Meanwhile, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday clarified that the Congress has no "enmity" with BSP supremo Mayawati and that Congress will "cooperate with them wherever possible." (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, Congress appoints Priyanka Gandhi Vadra general secretary for Uttar Pradesh East

As Karnataka's ruling coalition constituents Congress and JD(S) get down to brass tacks for the Lok Sabha polls, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said his party should not be treated as "third-grade citizen" and the partners should adopt a "give and take policy" to put up a united fight against the BJP.&nbsp;

With the coalition partners expected to hold talks on the tricky seat-sharing issue amid pressure within the Congress not to cede much to Janata Dal (Secular), Kumaraswamy stressed there should not be any "pettiness" on both sides.

In an interview to PTI, the chief minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's charisma was "fading" with growing anti-incumbency, and pitched for Congress president Rahul Gandhi for the top job while also admitting that there was a lack of consensus among anti-BJP parties on choosing Gandhi.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

As his government completed seven months in office, the JD(S) leader downplayed reports of contradictions within the coalition and said he would overcome all the "bitterness" smoothly.&nbsp;

"Both of us (Congress-JD(S)) should go together (in Lok Sabha polls) is our opinion. Because the reason behind forming this government (in Karnataka) is to stop the BJP from coming to power and improve the atmosphere in the country..." Kumaraswamy said when asked whether the JD(S) would go it alone if seat-sharing talks fail.

He said after the formation of the coalition government in the southern state, a lot of changes had taken place in the country's political landscape, including BJP's downslide and Congress victory in some bypolls and assembly elections in three states.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"...In my opinion, if Congress loses its way and tries to move with overconfidence, what will happen they will understand, with their past political experience, I do not think they will forget them.&nbsp;

"They should treat us respectfully. They should not treat us as a third-grade citizen. There should be given and take policy," Kumaraswamy said.&nbsp;

The JD(S) has demanded 12 out of 28 seats for the Lok Sabha polls, to which the Congress has expressed its reservations.

In the 2014 polls, BJP had won 17 seats in the state, Congress 9 and JD(S) 2 seats.

Seat-sharing is expected to be a litmus test for the Congress-JD(S) combine, mostly in the old Mysuru region constituencies, where the JD(S) is a dominant force in the Vokkaliga heartland and the Congress has its sitting MPs.

Reiterating that the coalition intends to face the Lok Sabha polls together, the Karnataka chief minister said leaders of both the parties are expected to discuss and come to a final decision later this month.

"Our national president (H D Deve Gowda) feels that after the government formation, for everything two-third (for Congress) and one-third (for JD(S)) concept was adopted like in the ministry or board corporation appointments. There are 28 seats...They (Congress) should take two- thirds and give us one-third, this is what his feeling is, and mostly, I feel they will also agree," he said.&nbsp;

Asked whether his party's demand for 12 seats was negotiable, Kumaraswamy did not give a direct response. He, however, said the two-third and one-third was the Congress' formula for the coalition.

Congress and JD(S) had bitterly fought the May 2018 assembly polls but joined hands as the polls threw up a hung verdict.

"Some may say that it (coalition) may survive only till parliament elections. I want to say that after the parliamentary election also the government that will be formed in Delhi and the environment that will be created will lead to a situation where the Karnataka government continues to work safely," the chief minister said.

Meanwhile, Kumaraswamy accused the BJP of attempting to destabilise his government by trying to poach coalition MLAs.&nbsp;

"I know who they (BJP) are approaching, what they are offered to MLAs. I am collecting all the news and doing whatever (possible) from my side to see to that BJP does not disturb the government..." he said.

Kumaraswamy said the coming together of BSP's Mayawati and SP's Akhilesh Yadav was a "strong combination" and it may scuttle and slow the BJP's speed in Uttar Pradesh.

He also claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's image has "diminished", while Lalu Prasad Yadav-led RJD was getting sympathy, and in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the BJP did not perform well as it did the last time.&nbsp;

Asked about possible cracks in the anti-Modi front, the chief minister said, "I feel a strong combination may emerge against the BJP. I also feel that the 'mahagatbandhan' may emerge as an alternative to national parties".&nbsp;

Regarding projecting Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial face of the anti-BJP combine, Kumaraswamy said Deve Gowda had announced JD(S) support to the Gandhi scion and that "others will also come on board".&nbsp;

"I feel after the results, everyone will agree on a common leadership despite differences," he said.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy also termed the Centre's latest move of providing reservation to economically backward among the general category as a "desperate" step ahead of polls.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As Karnataka's ruling coalition constituents Congress and JD(S) get down to brass tacks for the Lok Sabha polls, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said his party should not be treated as "third-grade citizen" and the partners should adopt a "give and take policy" to put up a united fight against the BJP.

As Karnataka's ruling coalition constituents Congress and JD(S) get down to brass tacks for the Lok Sabha polls, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said his party should not be treated as "third-grade citizen" and the partners should adopt a "give and take policy" to put up a united fight against the BJP. With the coalition partners expected to hold talks on the tricky seat-sharing issue amid pressure within the Congress not to cede much to Janata Dal (Secular), Kumaraswamy stressed there should not be any "pettiness" on both sides. In an interview to PTI, the chief minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's charisma was "fading" with growing anti-incumbency, and pitched for Congress president Rahul Gandhi for the top job while also admitting that there was a lack of consensus among anti-BJP parties on choosing Gandhi. As his government completed seven months in office, the JD(S) leader downplayed reports of contradictions within the coalition and said he would overcome all the "bitterness" smoothly. "Both of us (Congress-JD(S)) should go together (in Lok Sabha polls) is our opinion. Because the reason behind forming this government (in Karnataka) is to stop the BJP from coming to power and improve the atmosphere in the country..." Kumaraswamy said when asked whether the JD(S) would go it alone if seat-sharing talks fail. He said after the formation of the coalition government in the southern state, a lot of changes had taken place in the country's political landscape, including BJP's downslide and Congress victory in some bypolls and assembly elections in three states. "...In my opinion, if Congress loses its way and tries to move with overconfidence, what will happen they will understand, with their past political experience, I do not think they will forget them. "They should treat us respectfully. They should not treat us as a third-grade citizen. There should be given and take policy," Kumaraswamy said. The JD(S) has demanded 12 out of 28 seats for the Lok Sabha polls, to which the Congress has expressed its reservations. In the 2014 polls, BJP had won 17 seats in the state, Congress 9 and JD(S) 2 seats. Seat-sharing is expected to be a litmus test for the Congress-JD(S) combine, mostly in the old Mysuru region constituencies, where the JD(S) is a dominant force in the Vokkaliga heartland and the Congress has its sitting MPs. Reiterating that the coalition intends to face the Lok Sabha polls together, the Karnataka chief minister said leaders of both the parties are expected to discuss and come to a final decision later this month. "Our national president (H D Deve Gowda) feels that after the government formation, for everything two-third (for Congress) and one-third (for JD(S)) concept was adopted like in the ministry or board corporation appointments. There are 28 seats...They (Congress) should take two- thirds and give us one-third, this is what his feeling is, and mostly, I feel they will also agree," he said. Asked whether his party's demand for 12 seats was negotiable, Kumaraswamy did not give a direct response. He, however, said the two-third and one-third was the Congress' formula for the coalition. Congress and JD(S) had bitterly fought the May 2018 assembly polls but joined hands as the polls threw up a hung verdict. "Some may say that it (coalition) may survive only till parliament elections. I want to say that after the parliamentary election also the government that will be formed in Delhi and the environment that will be created will lead to a situation where the Karnataka government continues to work safely," the chief minister said. Meanwhile, Kumaraswamy accused the BJP of attempting to destabilise his government by trying to poach coalition MLAs. "I know who they (BJP) are approaching, what they are offered to MLAs. I am collecting all the news and doing whatever (possible) from my side to see to that BJP does not disturb the government..." he said. Kumaraswamy said the coming together of BSP's Mayawati and SP's Akhilesh Yadav was a "strong combination" and it may scuttle and slow the BJP's speed in Uttar Pradesh. He also claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's image has "diminished", while Lalu Prasad Yadav-led RJD was getting sympathy, and in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the BJP did not perform well as it did the last time. Asked about possible cracks in the anti-Modi front, the chief minister said, "I feel a strong combination may emerge against the BJP. I also feel that the 'mahagatbandhan' may emerge as an alternative to national parties". Regarding projecting Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial face of the anti-BJP combine, Kumaraswamy said Deve Gowda had announced JD(S) support to the Gandhi scion and that "others will also come on board". "I feel after the results, everyone will agree on a common leadership despite differences," he said. Kumaraswamy also termed the Centre's latest move of providing reservation to economically backward among the general category as a "desperate" step ahead of polls.

Congress shouldn't treat JD(S) as 'third-grade citizen' in seat sharing: Kumaraswamy 

The manifesto committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) for the 2019 Lok Sabha election met for the first time on Sunday at the party's Headquarter in New Delhi.

The 20-member committee, constituted by BJP national President Amit Shah, is headed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

"In today's meeting, we have discussed the structure of 'Sankalp Patra'&nbsp;(manifesto). A decision has been taken to constitute 15 sub committees which will include stakeholders from various fields to establish direct communication with the public," Rajnath Singh told media after the meeting.

The meeting was attended by Amit Shah and other members of the committee. The BJP's manifesto committee includes - Arun Jaitley, Nirmala Sitharaman, Thawar Chand Gahlot, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, KJ Alphons, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Kiran Rijiju, Sushil Kumar Modi, Keshav Prasad Maurya, Arjun Munda, Ram Madhav, Bhupendra Yadav, Narayan Rane, Meenakshi Lekhi, Sanjay Paswan, Hari Babu, and Rajendra Mohan Singh Cheema.

 
&nbsp;

The manifesto committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) for the 2019 Lok Sabha election met for the first time on Sunday at the party's Headquarter in New Delhi.

The manifesto committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) for the 2019 Lok Sabha election met for the first time on Sunday at the party's Headquarter in New Delhi. The 20-member committee, constituted by BJP national President Amit Shah, is headed by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. "In today's meeting, we have discussed the structure of 'Sankalp Patra' (manifesto). A decision has been taken to constitute 15 sub committees which will include stakeholders from various fields to establish direct communication with the public," Rajnath Singh told media after the meeting. The meeting was attended by Amit Shah and other members of the committee. The BJP's manifesto committee includes - Arun Jaitley, Nirmala Sitharaman, Thawar Chand Gahlot, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, KJ Alphons, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Kiran Rijiju, Sushil Kumar Modi, Keshav Prasad Maurya, Arjun Munda, Ram Madhav, Bhupendra Yadav, Narayan Rane, Meenakshi Lekhi, Sanjay Paswan, Hari Babu, and Rajendra Mohan Singh Cheema.

BJP manifesto committee meets to prepare 'Sankalp Patra' for 2019 Lok Sabha elections

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party.

He also asked all party workers to ensure that the votes of their families and friends are cast by 10.30 AM on the polling day.

He mounted an attack on the Congress, saying the "cancer" of casteism, nepotism and appeasement policy was its contribution, which, he said, "weakened the democracy and halted development".

"In the elections in the three states (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh) our opponents won but we were not defeated. The results were not good but we have not lost our ground. The workers need not lose their hope," he said in his address at the BJP's national convention at Ramlila Ground here.

The BJP lost power to the Congress in the three Hindi heartland states in assembly polls held recently.

The meaning of "defeat" is reflected by the Congress which has vanished from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, he said.

"Lok Sabha elections are very important for us. If we manage a massive victory, the BJP will rule the country from Panchayat to Parliament for a long time," he said.

He asked his party workers to ensure that every voter is contacted in an intensive campaign for the elections.&nbsp;

Shah asked them to go back to their respective states with a pledge to ensure BJP's victory in the parliamentary elections and make Narendra Modi prime minister for a second term.

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party.

BJP chief Amit Shah Saturday asked party workers not to lose hope due to adverse results in recent Assembly elections in the three states, saying the upcoming parliamentary polls were "very important" for the party. He also asked all party workers to ensure that the votes of their families and friends are cast by 10.30 AM on the polling day. He mounted an attack on the Congress, saying the "cancer" of casteism, nepotism and appeasement policy was its contribution, which, he said, "weakened the democracy and halted development". "In the elections in the three states (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh) our opponents won but we were not defeated. The results were not good but we have not lost our ground. The workers need not lose their hope," he said in his address at the BJP's national convention at Ramlila Ground here. The BJP lost power to the Congress in the three Hindi heartland states in assembly polls held recently. The meaning of "defeat" is reflected by the Congress which has vanished from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, he said. "Lok Sabha elections are very important for us. If we manage a massive victory, the BJP will rule the country from Panchayat to Parliament for a long time," he said. He asked his party workers to ensure that every voter is contacted in an intensive campaign for the elections. Shah asked them to go back to their respective states with a pledge to ensure BJP's victory in the parliamentary elections and make Narendra Modi prime minister for a second term.

Don't lose hope by results in 3 states, Lok Sabha polls very important: Amit Shah tells BJP workers

A day before his joint press conference with Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the alliance will get the math right in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and the BJP will face defeat.

The two parties have agreed to an in-principle alliance ahead of the parliamentary elections, SP's national spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary had said last week.

"Last time we had come together in the Lok Sabha by-elections and BJP had lost the seats (earlier held by) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. This time too our math will be right and the BJP will face defeat," Yadav said at a chaupal here.

A formal announcement on the alliance between the two Uttar Pradesh-based parties will be made at Saturday's joint press conference with BSP, he said.

Responding to a question, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said the BJP had strengthened because it joined hands with regional parties and his party was also gaining strength by forming a coalition.

"Our (BSP and SP) coming together has not only created fear in the BJP but also in the Congress," Yadav added.

The BSP and SP alliance has virtually shut its doors to Congress in the state.

However, Chaudhary had said the alliance will not field candidates in Amethi and Raebareli, leaving the two Lok Sabha constituencies for Congress president Rahul Gandhi and United Progress Alliance chief Sonia Gandhi.

Yadav gave a slogan for the upcoming polls,&nbsp;"Humara kaam bolta hai, BJP ka dhokha bolta hai" (Our work speaks for itself, BJP's betrayal speaks).

He also took a dig at the BJP-led state government's decision to levy an additional 0.5 per cent cess on excise items to fund cow shelters, saying people will have to drink more liquor now for cow safety.&nbsp;

A day before his joint press conference with Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the alliance will get the math right in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and the BJP will face defeat.

A day before his joint press conference with Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said the alliance will get the math right in the upcoming Lok Sabha election and the BJP will face defeat. The two parties have agreed to an in-principle alliance ahead of the parliamentary elections, SP's national spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary had said last week. "Last time we had come together in the Lok Sabha by-elections and BJP had lost the seats (earlier held by) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. This time too our math will be right and the BJP will face defeat," Yadav said at a chaupal here. A formal announcement on the alliance between the two Uttar Pradesh-based parties will be made at Saturday's joint press conference with BSP, he said. Responding to a question, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said the BJP had strengthened because it joined hands with regional parties and his party was also gaining strength by forming a coalition. "Our (BSP and SP) coming together has not only created fear in the BJP but also in the Congress," Yadav added. The BSP and SP alliance has virtually shut its doors to Congress in the state. However, Chaudhary had said the alliance will not field candidates in Amethi and Raebareli, leaving the two Lok Sabha constituencies for Congress president Rahul Gandhi and United Progress Alliance chief Sonia Gandhi. Yadav gave a slogan for the upcoming polls, "Humara kaam bolta hai, BJP ka dhokha bolta hai" (Our work speaks for itself, BJP's betrayal speaks). He also took a dig at the BJP-led state government's decision to levy an additional 0.5 per cent cess on excise items to fund cow shelters, saying people will have to drink more liquor now for cow safety.

SP-BSP alliance will get its math right in Lok Sabha polls: Akhilesh Yadav

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues.

Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day.

A lone AIADMK member was also in the Well, protesting the construction of a dam across the Cauvery river. He was joined by a TDP member, who was dressed like former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran.

Members from the Left and the SP also sought to raise certain issues from their seats and a few Left members were standing in the aisle.

Within five minutes, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan adjourned the proceedings till noon as the din continued.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues. Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day.

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon on Monday following protests by the Congress and other parties on various issues. Congress members, seeking to raise the Rafale fighter jet deal, trooped into the Well of the House with placards as soon as the House met for the day. A lone AIADMK member was also in the Well, protesting the construction of a dam across the Cauvery river. He was joined by a TDP member, who was dressed like former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran. Members from the Left and the SP also sought to raise certain issues from their seats and a few Left members were standing in the aisle. Within five minutes, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan adjourned the proceedings till noon as the din continued.

Lok Sabha adjourns till noon amid protests over various issues

The BJP top brass has relied on a mix of electoral experience and organisational ability in picking its team of state in-charges to drive the party's 2019 Lok Sabha poll campaign, and as expected from the Modi-Shah duo, they have sprung a few surprises as well with the Hindutva agenda being at the core of the choices.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah have entrusted Gordhan Zadaphia, a fellow Gujarati who was long a bitter Modi critic, with the responsibility of Uttar Pradesh, a state where BJP's performance will be central to its dream to retain power at the Centre.

Election in-charges are trusted lieutenants of the party's central leadership and their job is to be a bridge between it and state units, elicit feedback from grassroots and craft and execute poll campaign while being at the background.

Here is a profile of leaders<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-cm-baghel-conducts-first-cabinet-expansion-9-mlas-take-oath-186308"> chosen as in-charges for 17 states </a>and Union Territory of Chandigarh.

Gordhan Zadaphia: He had a big fallout with Modi in 2004 when he refused to take oath as minister. He later floated his own party and joined hands with likes of former state CMs, Keshubhai Patel and Suresh Mehta, to take on Modi.

He returned to BJP before 2014 Lok Sabha polls. What is, however, unquestionable is the 64-year-old leader's Hindutva credentials as his ties with RSS and VHP always remained strong.

The junior home minister in Gujarat government during 2002 riots, Zadaphia has already set a target of winning all 80 seats of UP, where BJP had won 71 seats in 2014.&nbsp;

Incidentally, Shah was UP in-charge in 2014.&nbsp;

Bhupender Yadav: A party general secretary, he will be in charge of Bihar. A lawyer and key party spearhead in Parliament, Yadav has been involved with almost every state election in some way since Shah became BJP chief in 2014.&nbsp;

A low profile leader, he enjoys Shah's trust and has long been in-charge of party affairs in Bihar.

His job will be to iron out any differences with allies— CM Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP. NDA had won 31 of the state's 40 seats in 2014.

Mahendra Singh: A minister in UP government, BJP has appointed him election in-charge for Assam. Party came to power in the state for first time in 2016, with him as in-charge.&nbsp;

Arun Singh: A party general secretary, he will lead a poll campaign in Odisha. &nbsp;A Thakur leader from UP, Singh (53) started his political career with Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha, BJP's youth wing, and has since steadily climbed up the organisational ladder.

BJP had won only one seat out of 21 in Odisha in 2014.

Mangal Pandey: A former Bihar BJP chief, he has also looked after party affairs in Himachal Pradesh in past. Now a minister in Bihar government, Pandey (53) has the responsibility of steering campaign in Jharkhand.

Tirath Singh Rawat: A former Uttarakhand BJP chief, Rawat would lead task in Himachal Pradesh. His job will be to ensure a repeat of 2014 feat when the party won all 4 seats.

Nalin Kohli: A lawyer and savvy spokesperson of the party, Kohli is in-charge of Nagaland and Manipur. BJP is in power in Manipur and its ally is at the helm in Nagaland.&nbsp;

Nitin Nabin: An MLA from Bihar, he has been given charge of Sikkim. He is only 38 and has also been associated with BJYM.

Prakash Javadekar, who has been the party's in charge in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, likes to take everyone on board.&nbsp;

Due to this quality, he has been given the responsibility of Rajasthan, where BJP under Vasundhara Raje has been at loggerheads with its national leadership over various issues. He has to act as a bridge between both sides.&nbsp;

Javadekar enjoys trust of Modi and Shah. He also has the backing of BJP's ideological mentor Sangh.

Sudhanshu Trivedi has also been again given the responsibility of Rajasthan for 2019 polls.

Trivedi, who has a doctorate in mechanical engineering, rose to prominence during his tenure as political advisor to then BJP chief Rajnath Singh. He is known for his political analysis and deep understanding of caste equations.&nbsp;

Captain Abhimanyu, a minister in BJP government in Haryana, has been given the responsibility of Punjab and Chandigarh. An Amit Shah loyalist, he was in his team for UP during 2014 LS polls.&nbsp;

The Jaat leader handed caste-dominated western UP at that time. Hailing from Haryana, he twice has been in-charge of Punjab in 2012 and 2017.&nbsp; 
BJP's Chhattisgarh in charge Anil Jain is a practitioner surgeon at Apollo Hospital, New Delhi.&nbsp;

Jain maintains a low profile and is essentially a backroom boy. He takes care of Shah's schedule and political programmes. BJP lost Chhattisgarh last month with him as in charge.&nbsp;

O P Mathur, vice-president of the party, will lead the campaign in Gujarat after 16 years. He was state-in-charge in 2002 assembly elections.&nbsp;

BJP's Dalit face and Union minister Thawarchand Gehlot has again been given charge of Uttrakhand. He's also a member of BJP's parliamentary board.&nbsp;

The architect of party's victory in Tripura, Sunil Deodhar has been given a new challenge of making the party a force in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

He is known for his organisation skills especially in strengthening the party on the ground and expanding its network of cadres. He will be assisted by V Muralidharan, party's ex-Kerala unit chief.&nbsp;

The responsibility of Telangana has been given to Aravind Limbavali, sitting MLA from Karnataka and ex-minister.

Swatantra Dev Singh, minister of state (independent charge) in UP, will lead party campaign in Madhya Pradesh. Singh will be accompanied by party's Delhi unit ex-chief Satish Upadhyay.

The BJP top brass has relied on a mix of electoral experience and organisational ability in picking its team of state in-charges to drive the party's 2019 Lok Sabha poll campaign, and as expected from the Modi-Shah duo, they have sprung a few surprises as well with the Hindutva agenda being at the core of the choices.

The BJP top brass has relied on a mix of electoral experience and organisational ability in picking its team of state in-charges to drive the party's 2019 Lok Sabha poll campaign, and as expected from the Modi-Shah duo, they have sprung a few surprises as well with the Hindutva agenda being at the core of the choices. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah have entrusted Gordhan Zadaphia, a fellow Gujarati who was long a bitter Modi critic, with the responsibility of Uttar Pradesh, a state where BJP's performance will be central to its dream to retain power at the Centre. Election in-charges are trusted lieutenants of the party's central leadership and their job is to be a bridge between it and state units, elicit feedback from grassroots and craft and execute poll campaign while being at the background. Here is a profile of leaders chosen as in-charges for 17 states and Union Territory of Chandigarh. Gordhan Zadaphia: He had a big fallout with Modi in 2004 when he refused to take oath as minister. He later floated his own party and joined hands with likes of former state CMs, Keshubhai Patel and Suresh Mehta, to take on Modi. He returned to BJP before 2014 Lok Sabha polls. What is, however, unquestionable is the 64-year-old leader's Hindutva credentials as his ties with RSS and VHP always remained strong. The junior home minister in Gujarat government during 2002 riots, Zadaphia has already set a target of winning all 80 seats of UP, where BJP had won 71 seats in 2014. Incidentally, Shah was UP in-charge in 2014. Bhupender Yadav: A party general secretary, he will be in charge of Bihar. A lawyer and key party spearhead in Parliament, Yadav has been involved with almost every state election in some way since Shah became BJP chief in 2014. A low profile leader, he enjoys Shah's trust and has long been in-charge of party affairs in Bihar. His job will be to iron out any differences with allies— CM Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP. NDA had won 31 of the state's 40 seats in 2014. Mahendra Singh: A minister in UP government, BJP has appointed him election in-charge for Assam. Party came to power in the state for first time in 2016, with him as in-charge. Arun Singh: A party general secretary, he will lead a poll campaign in Odisha. A Thakur leader from UP, Singh (53) started his political career with Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha, BJP's youth wing, and has since steadily climbed up the organisational ladder. BJP had won only one seat out of 21 in Odisha in 2014. Mangal Pandey: A former Bihar BJP chief, he has also looked after party affairs in Himachal Pradesh in past. Now a minister in Bihar government, Pandey (53) has the responsibility of steering campaign in Jharkhand. Tirath Singh Rawat: A former Uttarakhand BJP chief, Rawat would lead task in Himachal Pradesh. His job will be to ensure a repeat of 2014 feat when the party won all 4 seats. Nalin Kohli: A lawyer and savvy spokesperson of the party, Kohli is in-charge of Nagaland and Manipur. BJP is in power in Manipur and its ally is at the helm in Nagaland. Nitin Nabin: An MLA from Bihar, he has been given charge of Sikkim. He is only 38 and has also been associated with BJYM. Prakash Javadekar, who has been the party's in charge in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, likes to take everyone on board. Due to this quality, he has been given the responsibility of Rajasthan, where BJP under Vasundhara Raje has been at loggerheads with its national leadership over various issues. He has to act as a bridge between both sides. Javadekar enjoys trust of Modi and Shah. He also has the backing of BJP's ideological mentor Sangh. Sudhanshu Trivedi has also been again given the responsibility of Rajasthan for 2019 polls. Trivedi, who has a doctorate in mechanical engineering, rose to prominence during his tenure as political advisor to then BJP chief Rajnath Singh. He is known for his political analysis and deep understanding of caste equations. Captain Abhimanyu, a minister in BJP government in Haryana, has been given the responsibility of Punjab and Chandigarh. An Amit Shah loyalist, he was in his team for UP during 2014 LS polls. The Jaat leader handed caste-dominated western UP at that time. Hailing from Haryana, he twice has been in-charge of Punjab in 2012 and 2017. BJP's Chhattisgarh in charge Anil Jain is a practitioner surgeon at Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. Jain maintains a low profile and is essentially a backroom boy. He takes care of Shah's schedule and political programmes. BJP lost Chhattisgarh last month with him as in charge. O P Mathur, vice-president of the party, will lead the campaign in Gujarat after 16 years. He was state-in-charge in 2002 assembly elections. BJP's Dalit face and Union minister Thawarchand Gehlot has again been given charge of Uttrakhand. He's also a member of BJP's parliamentary board. The architect of party's victory in Tripura, Sunil Deodhar has been given a new challenge of making the party a force in Andhra Pradesh. He is known for his organisation skills especially in strengthening the party on the ground and expanding its network of cadres. He will be assisted by V Muralidharan, party's ex-Kerala unit chief. The responsibility of Telangana has been given to Aravind Limbavali, sitting MLA from Karnataka and ex-minister. Swatantra Dev Singh, minister of state (independent charge) in UP, will lead party campaign in Madhya Pradesh. Singh will be accompanied by party's Delhi unit ex-chief Satish Upadhyay.

BJP bets heavy on electoral experience, organisational ability in selecting Lok Sabha campaign in-charges

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-to-discuss-triple-talaq-bill-on-dec-31-bjp-congress-issue-whips-187344">triple talaq bill</a> as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it.

"The law should had been made according to the Quran. There should have been some scope for agreement. Talaq (divorce) happens when all options exhaust.''

"If the proposed legislation becomes a means of punishment instead of relief for the people, then we will launch an agitation," chairperson of AIMWPLB Shaista Ambar told PTI Sunday.

She claimed the proposed legislation will ruin families.

Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill which criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community.

The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation. The bill will now go to Rajya Sabha for approval.

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it.

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it. "The law should had been made according to the Quran. There should have been some scope for agreement. Talaq (divorce) happens when all options exhaust.'' "If the proposed legislation becomes a means of punishment instead of relief for the people, then we will launch an agitation," chairperson of AIMWPLB Shaista Ambar told PTI Sunday. She claimed the proposed legislation will ruin families. Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill which criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community. The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation. The bill will now go to Rajya Sabha for approval.

Triple talaq bill will ruin families, will launch agitation against it: AIMWPLB

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-debate-centre-says-dont-use-a-political-prism-opposition-wants-bill-to-go-to-parliament-panel-186835">Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion </a>in the lower house of Parliament.

The bill was passed with 245 votes in favour and 11 against.&nbsp;

During the debate in the Lok Sabha, the Congress and AIADMK staged a walkout as they had called for the bill to be sent to the joint select committee.

While the government reiterated the fresh Bill, which makes the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence, is about gender equality, the opposition wanted the proposed legislation to be sent to the select committee for detailed deliberations.

Earlier, moving the Bill for passage, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Bill was not against any community, religion or belief, rather it would ensure justice to women. Pointing out that 20 Islamic countries had banned triple talaq, Prasad asked why a secular nation like India could not have this.

The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September.

Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. 
The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had then cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable.

However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments.

An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses.

The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion in the lower house of Parliament.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion in the lower house of Parliament. The bill was passed with 245 votes in favour and 11 against. During the debate in the Lok Sabha, the Congress and AIADMK staged a walkout as they had called for the bill to be sent to the joint select committee. While the government reiterated the fresh Bill, which makes the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence, is about gender equality, the opposition wanted the proposed legislation to be sent to the select committee for detailed deliberations. Earlier, moving the Bill for passage, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Bill was not against any community, religion or belief, rather it would ensure justice to women. Pointing out that 20 Islamic countries had banned triple talaq, Prasad asked why a secular nation like India could not have this. The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September. Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha. The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had then cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable. However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments. An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses. The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

Lok Sabha passes Triple Talaq Bill; Congress, AIADMK stage walkout

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district.

While slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties -- AIADMK and DMK trooped -- into the well of the House over construction of Mekadatu Dam on Cauvery River, Samajwadi Party and BSP members raised the issue of mob violence in Bulandshahr that left two dead, including an inspector rank police officer.

A couple of members from Andhra Pradesh too were in the well of the House demanding special status for the state.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said nothing that the protesting members were saying would go on record and then adjourned the proceedings for the day.

"As nobody seems to be interested I have no option but to adjourn the House for the day," he said before adjourning the proceedings till Friday.

The trouble started soon after the House mourned the death of its former members N Rajangam and Jai Narain Prasad Nishad and listed papers were presented to the House.

Members of Tamil parties shouted slogans from the well of the House seeking justice for the state over the Cauvery issue while SP and BSP members stood in their places raising the issue of Bulandshahr violence.

TMC leader Derek O'Brien too was up on his feet trying to a raise an issue but could not be heard in the din.

Thursday was the first sitting of the House after the four-day Christmas break.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district.

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after a ruckus in the House over issues ranging from construction of a dam on the Cauvery River to violence in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district. While slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties -- AIADMK and DMK trooped -- into the well of the House over construction of Mekadatu Dam on Cauvery River, Samajwadi Party and BSP members raised the issue of mob violence in Bulandshahr that left two dead, including an inspector rank police officer. A couple of members from Andhra Pradesh too were in the well of the House demanding special status for the state. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said nothing that the protesting members were saying would go on record and then adjourned the proceedings for the day. "As nobody seems to be interested I have no option but to adjourn the House for the day," he said before adjourning the proceedings till Friday. The trouble started soon after the House mourned the death of its former members N Rajangam and Jai Narain Prasad Nishad and listed papers were presented to the House. Members of Tamil parties shouted slogans from the well of the House seeking justice for the state over the Cauvery issue while SP and BSP members stood in their places raising the issue of Bulandshahr violence. TMC leader Derek O'Brien too was up on his feet trying to a raise an issue but could not be heard in the din. Thursday was the first sitting of the House after the four-day Christmas break.

Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day without transacting business

Makkal Needhi Maiam chief <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kajal-aggarwal-confirms-next-film-with-kamal-haasan-181353">Kamal Haasan</a> Saturday said his party has authorised him to a take a decision on forging an alliance with like-minded parties for next year's Lok Sabha polls.

After discussions, the party executive and administrative panels "authorised me to take a decision on forging an alliance with like-minded parties and a good alliance will fructify," Haasan told reporters here.

The move is seen as a clear signal that Haasan's fledgeling party -founded in February this year does not want to test the waters all alone and would rather prefer to join forces with established parties.

Haasan had said recently that he was not averse to forging poll ties with the Congress if it eased itself out of the DMK-led alliance, which the national party has rejected.

Asked to name the parties with which MNM would strike an electoral alliance, the actor-turned-politician said there was no need to spell out details now.

"We will let you know after taking a decision. Now there is no urgency to disclose it," he said.

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Kamal Haasan: I will definitely contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. <a href="https://t.co/jU9RyA1oTw">pic.twitter.com/jU9RyA1oTw</a>
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The ideology of the party with which they may forge ties may be different, but the thought process should be in favour of Tamil Nadu, he said.

His party's propaganda for the Lok Sabha election would be based on the growth of Tamil Nadu, he said.

"The time has come to correct the injustices meted out to the state and aspects like these will be the focal points of our poll propaganda," he said.

Asked if his party would forge an alliance with Congress or the BJP, he said his party "would not strike a poll deal with a party that tries to change the DNA of Tamil Nadu," which is perceived as against the BJP.

Haasan said a panel has been set up to pick party nominees for the 40 Parliamentary constituencies; 39 in Tamil Nadu and one in neighbouring Puducherry.

A party functionary told PTI that while nominees will be ready for all the Lok Sabha&nbsp;seats, it may be 'tailored' as per the coalition needs.

To a question on facing the local body polls expected in 2019, he said: "We are preparing for it and there is no need to determine now if we will go it alone or will have the poll deal with other parties."

Haasan said his party would field candidates "if by-elections are held to 20 Assembly constituencies."

Eighteen AIADMK MLAs were disqualified and constituencies represented by them fell vacant. Two more seats became vacant following the deaths of incumbents.

However, Haasan said only after the declaration of by-election to the 20 constituencies would he be able to disclose if the party would face it alone or in alliance with other parties.

On the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected next month to Tamil Nadu to address a party event, he said it was preparatory to the Lok Sabha election.

Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan Saturday said his party has authorised him to a take a decision on forging an alliance with like-minded parties for next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan Saturday said his party has authorised him to a take a decision on forging an alliance with like-minded parties for next year's Lok Sabha polls. After discussions, the party executive and administrative panels "authorised me to take a decision on forging an alliance with like-minded parties and a good alliance will fructify," Haasan told reporters here. The move is seen as a clear signal that Haasan's fledgeling party -founded in February this year does not want to test the waters all alone and would rather prefer to join forces with established parties. Haasan had said recently that he was not averse to forging poll ties with the Congress if it eased itself out of the DMK-led alliance, which the national party has rejected. Asked to name the parties with which MNM would strike an electoral alliance, the actor-turned-politician said there was no need to spell out details now. "We will let you know after taking a decision. Now there is no urgency to disclose it," he said. Kamal Haasan: I will definitely contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/jU9RyA1oTw — ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2018 × The ideology of the party with which they may forge ties may be different, but the thought process should be in favour of Tamil Nadu, he said. His party's propaganda for the Lok Sabha election would be based on the growth of Tamil Nadu, he said. "The time has come to correct the injustices meted out to the state and aspects like these will be the focal points of our poll propaganda," he said. Asked if his party would forge an alliance with Congress or the BJP, he said his party "would not strike a poll deal with a party that tries to change the DNA of Tamil Nadu," which is perceived as against the BJP. Haasan said a panel has been set up to pick party nominees for the 40 Parliamentary constituencies; 39 in Tamil Nadu and one in neighbouring Puducherry. A party functionary told PTI that while nominees will be ready for all the Lok Sabha seats, it may be 'tailored' as per the coalition needs. To a question on facing the local body polls expected in 2019, he said: "We are preparing for it and there is no need to determine now if we will go it alone or will have the poll deal with other parties." Haasan said his party would field candidates "if by-elections are held to 20 Assembly constituencies." Eighteen AIADMK MLAs were disqualified and constituencies represented by them fell vacant. Two more seats became vacant following the deaths of incumbents. However, Haasan said only after the declaration of by-election to the 20 constituencies would he be able to disclose if the party would face it alone or in alliance with other parties. On the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected next month to Tamil Nadu to address a party event, he said it was preparatory to the Lok Sabha election.

Kamal Haasan's party to scout for allies to face Lok Sabha polls

&nbsp;The government is making efforts to bring back people involved in financial irregularities to the country through Look Out Circulars, Red Corner Notice and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mallya-extradition-to-speed-up-loan-recovery-process-sbi-183208">extradition requests</a>, Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday.

Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, listed 29 people, including liquor baron <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mallya-extradition-to-speed-up-loan-recovery-process-sbi-183208">Vijay Mallya</a>, and diamantaires <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/interpol-issues-red-corner-notice-against-nirav-modi-for-money-laundering-148356">Nirav Modi</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-bank-case-interpol-issues-red-corned-notice-against-mehul-choksi-183652">Mehul Choksi</a>, as those involved in financial irregularities who have fled the country or are living abroad for the years 2015-18 as per the details provided by the Central Bureau of Investigation .

According to the information provided by the Enforcement Directorate, there are 41 people involved in financial irregularities who fled the country or are living abroad, including Mallya, Modi and Choksi, he said.

Five persons -- Hamel Mahendrabhai Langalia, Rajeev Verma, Syed Zainul Hasan, Modi and Choksi -- were found involved in various violations of Customs Act, 1962, and have fled the country or are living abroad, Singh said, citing information given by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence.

"Efforts are being made for securing the presence of these accused in the country by way of issuance of LOC (Look Out Circulars), RCN (Red Corner Notice) and extradition requests," he said.

An action under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, has also been initiated in suitable cases, he said.&nbsp;

Mallya remains on bail after his extradition was recently ordered by Westminster Magistrates' Court in London, an order which now awaits a sign-off by UK home secretary Sajid Javid.

For Modi, 18 letters of request (LRs) have been sent to different countries and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-faces-bankruptcy-proceedings-in-uk-high-court-184975">two separate extradition requests have been forwarded to the UK</a> in August 2018. 
RCN has been opened and LRs sent to Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and USA for Choksi.

The government is making efforts to bring back people involved in financial irregularities to the country through Look Out Circulars, Red Corner Notice and extradition requests, Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday.

The government is making efforts to bring back people involved in financial irregularities to the country through Look Out Circulars, Red Corner Notice and extradition requests, Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday. Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, listed 29 people, including liquor baron Vijay Mallya, and diamantaires Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, as those involved in financial irregularities who have fled the country or are living abroad for the years 2015-18 as per the details provided by the Central Bureau of Investigation . According to the information provided by the Enforcement Directorate, there are 41 people involved in financial irregularities who fled the country or are living abroad, including Mallya, Modi and Choksi, he said. Five persons -- Hamel Mahendrabhai Langalia, Rajeev Verma, Syed Zainul Hasan, Modi and Choksi -- were found involved in various violations of Customs Act, 1962, and have fled the country or are living abroad, Singh said, citing information given by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence. "Efforts are being made for securing the presence of these accused in the country by way of issuance of LOC (Look Out Circulars), RCN (Red Corner Notice) and extradition requests," he said. An action under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, has also been initiated in suitable cases, he said. Mallya remains on bail after his extradition was recently ordered by Westminster Magistrates' Court in London, an order which now awaits a sign-off by UK home secretary Sajid Javid. For Modi, 18 letters of request (LRs) have been sent to different countries and two separate extradition requests have been forwarded to the UK in August 2018. RCN has been opened and LRs sent to Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and USA for Choksi.

Efforts on to bring back 29 economic offenders including Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi: Government

CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on Monday met DMK chief MK Stalin at his residence in Chennai. After the meeting, Yechury told media that the CPI(M) will extend support to DMK in Tamil Nadu for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We have decided today that in Tamil Nadu we will be with the DMK in the forthcoming elections," Yechury said.&nbsp;

"We are together on the issue of saving the unity, integrity and harmony of the people of India and the country's constitutional institutions," he added.

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We have decided today that in Tamil Nadu we will be with the DMK in the forthcoming elections. We are together on the issue of saving the unity, integrity and harmony of the people of India and the country's constitutional institutions: CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury in Chennai <a href="https://t.co/NpzlAGf2eq">pic.twitter.com/NpzlAGf2eq</a>
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Last month, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury announced that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cpim-to-work-on-maximising-anti-bjp-votes-in-lok-sabha-polls-sitaram-yechury-171603">party's agenda in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls</a> was to maximise the anti-BJP votes in the country.

He added that the party will work to defeat the saffron party in states where it will be in a direct fight with the Congress.&nbsp;

The Left party would, however, have no alliance with the Congress, he noted, adding that it will support regional parties which were not in the government and were opposed to the BJP.

Citing examples, he said the Left party will support the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and other secular forces in Bihar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu and other like-minded parties in different states, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on Monday met DMK chief MK Stalin at his residence in Chennai. After the meeting, Yechury told media that the CPI(M) will extend support to DMK in Tamil Nadu for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on Monday met DMK chief MK Stalin at his residence in Chennai. After the meeting, Yechury told media that the CPI(M) will extend support to DMK in Tamil Nadu for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. "We have decided today that in Tamil Nadu we will be with the DMK in the forthcoming elections," Yechury said. "We are together on the issue of saving the unity, integrity and harmony of the people of India and the country's constitutional institutions," he added. We have decided today that in Tamil Nadu we will be with the DMK in the forthcoming elections. We are together on the issue of saving the unity, integrity and harmony of the people of India and the country's constitutional institutions: CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury in Chennai pic.twitter.com/NpzlAGf2eq — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2018 × Last month, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury announced that the party's agenda in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls was to maximise the anti-BJP votes in the country. He added that the party will work to defeat the saffron party in states where it will be in a direct fight with the Congress. The Left party would, however, have no alliance with the Congress, he noted, adding that it will support regional parties which were not in the government and were opposed to the BJP. Citing examples, he said the Left party will support the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh, the Rashtriya Janata Dal and other secular forces in Bihar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu and other like-minded parties in different states, news agency PTI reported.

Will be with DMK in Tamil Nadu for Lok Sabha elections: Sitaram Yechury

Karnataka's ruling Congress-JD(S) is set to clinch four of the five seats&nbsp;that went to the polls last weekend.

The Congress has won 1 of the 3 Lok Sabha seats being contested, and leads in another. It has also won the two assembly seats&nbsp;being contested.&nbsp;

That left the BJP with just one win — in Shivamogga, where its state party chief B S Yeddyurappa's son B Y Raghavendra was ahead of former chief minister S Bangarappa's son Madhu Bangarappa of JD(S) by 36,351 votes.

Making inroads in the BJP-held Ballari Lok Saba constituency, Congress' V S Ugrappa was leading over BJP's J Shantha by 1,74,294 votes, officials said.

Shantha is the sister of B Sriramulu, who gave up the seat after being elected to the state assembly in the polls in May this year.

JD(S) candidate L Shivarame Gowda established an unassailable lead of 99,198 votes against the BJP's new face Dr Siddaramaiah, a former official, in the party bastion of Mandya in the Vokkaliga belt in the old Mysuru region.

Of the three Lok Sabha seats that went to the by-polls, BJP had held Shivamogga and Ballari and JD(S) Mandya.

In the Ramanagara assembly seat, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's wife Anitha Kumaraswamy established a huge lead of 71,613 votes over BJP's L Chandrashekar, who pulled out of the contest but officially still remains the party candidate.

Chandrashekhar joined the BJP ahead of the polls but returned to the Congress weeks later, leaving the saffron party red-faced. 
Facing a no-contest, it will be a walkover for Anitha Kumaraswamy.

In the Jamkhandi assembly segment in north Karnataka, Congress candidate Anand Nyamgouda was ahead of BJP's Srikant Kulkarni by a margin of 32,933 votes, riding on a sympathy wave following his father and sitting MLA Siddu Nyamagoudas death in a road accident.

The Ramanagara assembly seat was held by the JD(S) and Jamkhandi by the Congress.

The parliamentary by-elections were necessitated after BJP's Yeddyurappa (Shivamogga) and Sriramalu (Ballari), and C S Puttaraju of the JD(S) (Mandya) resigned as MPs on their election to the assembly in May.

The by-election to the Jamkhandi assembly seat was caused by the death of Congress MLA Siddu Nyamagouda. The Ramanagara seat fell vacant after

Kumaraswamy gave up the seat, preferring Chennapatna, the other constituency from where he had won.

The by-elections are being seen as a popularity test of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, cobbled together after the May assembly polls that threw up a fractured verdict.

The BJP and the Congress-JD(S) combine launched an all out offensive to break into each other's bastions to gain advantage before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Karnataka's ruling Congress-JD(S) is set to clinch four of the five seats that went to the polls last weekend. The Congress has won 1 of the 3 Lok Sabha seats being contested, and leads in another.

Karnataka's ruling Congress-JD(S) is set to clinch four of the five seats that went to the polls last weekend. The Congress has won 1 of the 3 Lok Sabha seats being contested, and leads in another. It has also won the two assembly seats being contested. That left the BJP with just one win — in Shivamogga, where its state party chief B S Yeddyurappa's son B Y Raghavendra was ahead of former chief minister S Bangarappa's son Madhu Bangarappa of JD(S) by 36,351 votes. Making inroads in the BJP-held Ballari Lok Saba constituency, Congress' V S Ugrappa was leading over BJP's J Shantha by 1,74,294 votes, officials said. Shantha is the sister of B Sriramulu, who gave up the seat after being elected to the state assembly in the polls in May this year. JD(S) candidate L Shivarame Gowda established an unassailable lead of 99,198 votes against the BJP's new face Dr Siddaramaiah, a former official, in the party bastion of Mandya in the Vokkaliga belt in the old Mysuru region. Of the three Lok Sabha seats that went to the by-polls, BJP had held Shivamogga and Ballari and JD(S) Mandya. In the Ramanagara assembly seat, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's wife Anitha Kumaraswamy established a huge lead of 71,613 votes over BJP's L Chandrashekar, who pulled out of the contest but officially still remains the party candidate. Chandrashekhar joined the BJP ahead of the polls but returned to the Congress weeks later, leaving the saffron party red-faced. Facing a no-contest, it will be a walkover for Anitha Kumaraswamy. In the Jamkhandi assembly segment in north Karnataka, Congress candidate Anand Nyamgouda was ahead of BJP's Srikant Kulkarni by a margin of 32,933 votes, riding on a sympathy wave following his father and sitting MLA Siddu Nyamagoudas death in a road accident. The Ramanagara assembly seat was held by the JD(S) and Jamkhandi by the Congress. The parliamentary by-elections were necessitated after BJP's Yeddyurappa (Shivamogga) and Sriramalu (Ballari), and C S Puttaraju of the JD(S) (Mandya) resigned as MPs on their election to the assembly in May. The by-election to the Jamkhandi assembly seat was caused by the death of Congress MLA Siddu Nyamagouda. The Ramanagara seat fell vacant after Kumaraswamy gave up the seat, preferring Chennapatna, the other constituency from where he had won. The by-elections are being seen as a popularity test of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, cobbled together after the May assembly polls that threw up a fractured verdict. The BJP and the Congress-JD(S) combine launched an all out offensive to break into each other's bastions to gain advantage before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Karnataka bypolls: Congress-JD(S) combine win 4 out of 5 seats

Senior Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi Friday said the party would forge an alliance with like minded parties for the 2019 general elections and would return to power.

The Congress, however, would not compromise on the ideology and values of the party, Chaturvedi said.

"We are not compelled to compromise on our ideology and values just for the sake of stitching up alliances. We will be reaching out to all political opposition parties and alliance will be formed on the basis of our and their understanding of the situation," said Chaturvedi, a national spokesperson of the party.

Asked whether the Congress's proposed opposition alliance would include the Trinamool Congress too, she said it would include all political parties that believe in basic ethos and idea of our country and do not believe in dividing people of religious and caste lines.

On NCP president Sharad Pawar's comment on Rafale scam, she said Pawar has not given a clean chit to anybody.

"Sharad Pawar has gone on record saying he was misquoted, misrepresented and asked specific questions to the government. He has not at all given any clean chit to the Modi government," she said.

In an interview to a Marathi news channel earlier this week, Pawar said he didn't think that people have doubts about Modi's intentions in the Rafale deal.

Later, the NCP clarified that Pawar had not given any clean chit to Modi on the Rafale issue, and reiterated its demands that the central government disclose the price of the fighter jets and order a JPC probe.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi Friday said the party would forge an alliance with like minded parties for the 2019 general elections and would return to power.

Senior Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi Friday said the party would forge an alliance with like minded parties for the 2019 general elections and would return to power. The Congress, however, would not compromise on the ideology and values of the party, Chaturvedi said. "We are not compelled to compromise on our ideology and values just for the sake of stitching up alliances. We will be reaching out to all political opposition parties and alliance will be formed on the basis of our and their understanding of the situation," said Chaturvedi, a national spokesperson of the party. Asked whether the Congress's proposed opposition alliance would include the Trinamool Congress too, she said it would include all political parties that believe in basic ethos and idea of our country and do not believe in dividing people of religious and caste lines. On NCP president Sharad Pawar's comment on Rafale scam, she said Pawar has not given a clean chit to anybody. "Sharad Pawar has gone on record saying he was misquoted, misrepresented and asked specific questions to the government. He has not at all given any clean chit to the Modi government," she said. In an interview to a Marathi news channel earlier this week, Pawar said he didn't think that people have doubts about Modi's intentions in the Rafale deal. Later, the NCP clarified that Pawar had not given any clean chit to Modi on the Rafale issue, and reiterated its demands that the central government disclose the price of the fighter jets and order a JPC probe.

Will form alliance with like minded parties for LS polls: Congress

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