Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases.&nbsp;

On March 8, the Samajwadi Party had released its first list of nine candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, fielding party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from its stronghold Mainpuri.

The party later announced that SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav would contest from Kannauj, where she is the sitting MP.

The party has decided to field MPs Dharmendra Yadav and Akshay Yadav from the current seats of Badaun and Firozabad, respectively.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday announced that Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) are now a part of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will fight on 38. Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal was being considered the third wheel of the alliance. Lok Sabha 2019 will be held in seven phases starting April 11, ending on May 19. Uttar Pradesh will cast vote in seven phases. On March 8, the Samajwadi Party had released its first list of nine candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, fielding party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from its stronghold Mainpuri. The party later announced that SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav would contest from Kannauj, where she is the sitting MP. The party has decided to field MPs Dharmendra Yadav and Akshay Yadav from the current seats of Badaun and Firozabad, respectively.

Lok Sabha polls: Nishad Party and Janvadi Party (Socialist) join SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh

Using hashtag #VoteKar, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-2019-over-100-farmers-from-tamil-nadu-set-to-challenge-pm-modi-in-varanasi-205231">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday went on a tweet spree again urging celebrities from various fields to motivate people to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi tweeted 16 times in just half-an-hour using the hashtag.

“My fellow Indians, The time has come to say- #VoteKar. In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, ensure that you as well as your family and friends turn out in record numbers. Your doing so will have a positive impact on the nation’s future,” he tweeted.

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My fellow Indians, 
 
The time has come to say- <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VoteKar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VoteKar</a>. 
 
In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, ensure that you as well as your family and friends turnout in record numbers. 
 
Your doing so will have a positive impact on the nation’s future.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1109822374008877056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He later went on to tag film celebrities like Hrithik Roshan, Anupam Kher, Kabir Bedi, R Madhavan, Anil Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Madhuri Dixit, Madhur Bhandarkar, Rajkummar Rao, Parineeti Chopra and Kartik Aryan among others to ask their respective fans to go and vote in the coming election.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilKapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnilKapoor</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/ajaydevgn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajaydevgn</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/MadhuriDixit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MadhuriDixit</a>, 
 
After the box office, it is time to create Total Dhamaal at the polling booths. 
 
Your support to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VoteKar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VoteKar</a> movement will augur well for India’s democracy. 
 
Let us ensure high voter turnout!
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1109824861084344320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This was the second time when Prime Minister Modi made such an appeal.

On March 13, he had urged various politicians to encourage voter participation and urged them to inspire more people to come out and vote during the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

“I appeal to Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Sharad Pawar, Mayawati, Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav and MK Stalin to encourage increased voter participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. A high turnout augurs well for our democratic fabric,” Prime Minister Modi wrote at that time.

He later went on to call upon Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to “work towards bringing maximum Indians to the polling booths in the upcoming elections. May voter awareness efforts be strengthened across the length and breadth of India.”

Seven-phased elections in the country will begin on April 11, and will culminate on May 19. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Using hashtag #VoteKar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday went on a tweet spree again urging celebrities from various fields to motivate people to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

Using hashtag #VoteKar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday went on a tweet spree again urging celebrities from various fields to motivate people to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi tweeted 16 times in just half-an-hour using the hashtag. “My fellow Indians, The time has come to say- #VoteKar. In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, ensure that you as well as your family and friends turn out in record numbers. Your doing so will have a positive impact on the nation’s future,” he tweeted. My fellow Indians, The time has come to say- #VoteKar. In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, ensure that you as well as your family and friends turnout in record numbers. Your doing so will have a positive impact on the nation’s future. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2019 × He later went on to tag film celebrities like Hrithik Roshan, Anupam Kher, Kabir Bedi, R Madhavan, Anil Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Madhuri Dixit, Madhur Bhandarkar, Rajkummar Rao, Parineeti Chopra and Kartik Aryan among others to ask their respective fans to go and vote in the coming election. Dear @AnilKapoor, @ajaydevgn & @MadhuriDixit, After the box office, it is time to create Total Dhamaal at the polling booths. Your support to the #VoteKar movement will augur well for India’s democracy. Let us ensure high voter turnout! — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2019 × This was the second time when Prime Minister Modi made such an appeal. On March 13, he had urged various politicians to encourage voter participation and urged them to inspire more people to come out and vote during the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. “I appeal to Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Sharad Pawar, Mayawati, Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav and MK Stalin to encourage increased voter participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. A high turnout augurs well for our democratic fabric,” Prime Minister Modi wrote at that time. He later went on to call upon Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to “work towards bringing maximum Indians to the polling booths in the upcoming elections. May voter awareness efforts be strengthened across the length and breadth of India.” Seven-phased elections in the country will begin on April 11, and will culminate on May 19. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Modi tweets 16 times, tells people to vote

Lok Sabha polls: A look at Bollywood entries in Indian politics

India Election Watch: Latest updates, 25th March 2019

As many as 111 farmers from Tamil Nadu are set to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming general elections from his home constituency, Varanasi.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said on Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against the Prime Minister from Varanasi.

Ayyakannu said the move is to urge the BJP to include their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," in its manifesto with a promise of fulfiling the same, adding that the "moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi."

In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against the Prime Minister.

"We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised to fulfil our demands and assured to double our income. 
Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them," he told PTI.&nbsp;

Already, he said, he has booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he added.

In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two "skulls," to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt.&nbsp;

Parties like the DMK and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers' demands, in their manifestos, he said.

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

As many as 111 farmers from Tamil Nadu are set to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming general elections from his home constituency, Varanasi. Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said on Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against the Prime Minister from Varanasi.

As many as 111 farmers from Tamil Nadu are set to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming general elections from his home constituency, Varanasi. Tamil Nadu farmers leader P Ayyakannu said on Saturday that 111 farmers from the state will contest against the Prime Minister from Varanasi. Ayyakannu said the move is to urge the BJP to include their demands, including "profitable prices for farm produce," in its manifesto with a promise of fulfiling the same, adding that the "moment they assure in their manifesto that our demands will be fulfilled, we will drop our decision to contest against Modi." In the event of that not happening, he said they would go ahead and contest against the Prime Minister. "We are not against the BJP or our PM Modi. Before assuming power, Modi ji promised to fulfil our demands and assured to double our income. Even today he is our Prime Minister and the BJP is the ruling party and that is why we are making this demand to them," he told PTI. Already, he said, he has booked train tickets for 300 farmers to go to Varanasi. Farmers from districts, including Tiruvannamalai and Tiruchirappalli, will reach Varanasi, he added. In November 2018, farmers led by Ayyakannu had gone to Delhi with two "skulls," to take part in a kisan rally, saying it belonged to their colleagues who had allegedly committed suicide over debt. Parties like the DMK and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have assured full loan waiver, which is also one of the farmers' demands, in their manifestos, he said. (With inputs from PTI)

Lok Sabha 2019: Over 100 farmers from Tamil Nadu set to challenge PM Modi in Varanasi

Union Minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here on Saturday.

"As Uma ji has written to BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating her decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections, the party has appointed her the national vice president of the BJP," Nadda said at a press conference.

Drinking Water and Sanitation Minister Uma had told Shah that she won't be contesting 17th Lok Sabha elections, adding that she will be happy to accept any other responsibilities assigned to her by the party.

"Dear friend, as I have already declared, reiterating the same I had written a letter to the party president Mr Amit Shah, repeating my request of not contesting an election, so that the party officially declares it," wrote Bharti on her Twitter account."

I have told all the friends that for the next one-and-a-half years, I want to spend the maximum time on the banks of the Ganga. During this period, I will participate in the Lok Sabha election campaign according to the BJP's directive, and will fulfil the responsibilities assigned to me," she said.

Bharti, however, said that she will not retire from politics till 'her last breath'&nbsp;and will continue to do politics for the rights of poor man.

"Prime Minister @narendramodi ji is the head guard of the country. All of BJP workers are included in the army of the chowkidars. My wish is that our government is formed and Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister again," she had tweeted.

In 1989, Bharti contested and won Khajuraho Lok Sabha seat, and retained it in elections conducted in 1991, 1996 and 1998. In 1999, she switched her constituency and won Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh. She won the last poll from Jhansi in UP.

In December last year, Bharti had announced to take a break from active politics to focus on the issue of Ram temple and cleaning of Ganga river. She had also announced that she would not contest the Lok Sabha polls in 2019.

Union Minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here on Saturday. "As Uma ji has written to BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating her decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections, the party has appointed her the national vice president of the BJP," Nadda said at a press conference.

Union Minister Uma Bharti has been appointed the national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, said Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here on Saturday. "As Uma ji has written to BJP president Amit Shah, reiterating her decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections, the party has appointed her the national vice president of the BJP," Nadda said at a press conference. Drinking Water and Sanitation Minister Uma had told Shah that she won't be contesting 17th Lok Sabha elections, adding that she will be happy to accept any other responsibilities assigned to her by the party. "Dear friend, as I have already declared, reiterating the same I had written a letter to the party president Mr Amit Shah, repeating my request of not contesting an election, so that the party officially declares it," wrote Bharti on her Twitter account." I have told all the friends that for the next one-and-a-half years, I want to spend the maximum time on the banks of the Ganga. During this period, I will participate in the Lok Sabha election campaign according to the BJP's directive, and will fulfil the responsibilities assigned to me," she said. Bharti, however, said that she will not retire from politics till 'her last breath' and will continue to do politics for the rights of poor man. "Prime Minister @narendramodi ji is the head guard of the country. All of BJP workers are included in the army of the chowkidars. My wish is that our government is formed and Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister again," she had tweeted. In 1989, Bharti contested and won Khajuraho Lok Sabha seat, and retained it in elections conducted in 1991, 1996 and 1998. In 1999, she switched her constituency and won Bhopal seat in Madhya Pradesh. She won the last poll from Jhansi in UP. In December last year, Bharti had announced to take a break from active politics to focus on the issue of Ram temple and cleaning of Ganga river. She had also announced that she would not contest the Lok Sabha polls in 2019.

Uma Bharti appointed as BJP national vice president

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, markets in various parts of India are flooded with diverse kinds of political merchandise, including masks, shirts and flags containing pictures of various political leaders on them.

Speaking to ANI, Vijay Tendulkar, the owner of a shop in Mumbai, said the aim is to attract more youth and encourage them to exercise their franchise in the impending polls.

"We are selling key chains, T-shirts, and jackets, among other things. On all merchandise, party logo is there. There is a humongous demand right now. The biggest demand is for flags, cap and mufflers," he added.

Markets in Coimbatore, too, have seen similar merchandise being sold in the run-up to the polls, including those with the face of late Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa on them.

Interestingly, merchandise with the faces of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi are most popular in markets, locals say.

Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19.

Results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, markets in various parts of India are flooded with diverse kinds of political merchandise, including masks, shirts and flags containing pictures of various political leaders on them.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, markets in various parts of India are flooded with diverse kinds of political merchandise, including masks, shirts and flags containing pictures of various political leaders on them. Speaking to ANI, Vijay Tendulkar, the owner of a shop in Mumbai, said the aim is to attract more youth and encourage them to exercise their franchise in the impending polls. "We are selling key chains, T-shirts, and jackets, among other things. On all merchandise, party logo is there. There is a humongous demand right now. The biggest demand is for flags, cap and mufflers," he added. Markets in Coimbatore, too, have seen similar merchandise being sold in the run-up to the polls, including those with the face of late Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa on them. Interestingly, merchandise with the faces of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi are most popular in markets, locals say. Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. Results will be declared on May 23.

Political merchandise hit markets ahead of Lok Sabha polls

A faction of YSRCP cadre in Paderu in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam district on Saturday set furniture of the party's office on fire after Visweswar Raju was denied an MLA ticket.

Raju was anticipating a ticket from Paderu Assembly constituency. However, he did not get the ticket.

His followers got dissatisfied and alleged that despite their hard-work to strengthen the party, their leader was denied ticket.YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy held a public meeting at Paderu, after which the faction reached the party office.

They first burnt the furniture in the office and later shouted slogans expressing their dissent.

Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

A faction of YSRCP cadre in Paderu in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam district on Saturday set furniture of the party's office on fire after Visweswar Raju was denied an MLA ticket.

A faction of YSRCP cadre in Paderu in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam district on Saturday set furniture of the party's office on fire after Visweswar Raju was denied an MLA ticket. Raju was anticipating a ticket from Paderu Assembly constituency. However, he did not get the ticket. His followers got dissatisfied and alleged that despite their hard-work to strengthen the party, their leader was denied ticket.YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy held a public meeting at Paderu, after which the faction reached the party office. They first burnt the furniture in the office and later shouted slogans expressing their dissent. Andhra Pradesh will go to polls on April 11, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Furniture set on fire outside YSRCP's office after party denies ticket to MLA

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

The poll results of the state, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats, can make or mar the prospects of any political party at the Centre.

There will be many seats in the state which will be keenly watched by political observers as any setback there might have great political repercussions.

"UP is the most politically crucial state and it results set the tone and tenor of national politics. All eyes will be here, especially on VIP seats where prominent leaders are in the fray," senior journalist JP Shukla said.

"Whether the state is going to give the next prime minister or not is the answer everyone will be looking for with the performance of political parties," he said.

While the outcome of the prime minister's Varanasi seat will be watched globally, other seats like Amethi and Raebareli of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi respectively will be of equal interest to the people.

During the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Modi's slogan that "I have not come here...Mother Ganga has called me" struck an emotional chord with the people, who elected him as their representative.

During his recent visit, Modi invoked Lord Vishwanath, saying, "I might have been called here to fulfil his dream to see the city developed."

In Amethi, Union minister Smriti Irani will challenge Rahul Gandhi. She has been spending a lot of time with the voters there, making the BJP workers feel that she will make the Congress chief uncomfortable this time.

Sonia Gandhi has been representing Rae Bareli since 1999, while Rahul Gandhi has been an MP from Amethi since 2004.

The seats of Kannauj, held by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav, Badaun, held by Dharmendra Yadav (SP), and Azamgarh, from where SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav won in 2014, will also be crucial.

While Dimple Yadav and Dharmendra will contest from their traditional seats, Mulayam Singh, this time, will be contesting from the Mainpuri seat.

Akhilesh Yadav has decided to contest from Azamgarh after a formal request from the district unit.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh is once again in the fray from the Lucknow seat, a BJP stronghold.

Bollywood star Hema Malini is contesting again from Mathura, while the Ghaziabad seat held by Union minister Gen VK Singh (retd) will also be on the list of constituencies to watch.

Another important seat will be of BJP leader Varun Gandhi, who is likely to leave the Sultanpur seat and contest from Pilibhit, represented by his mother and Union minister Maneka Gandhi.

While these polls will be a litmus test for the SP-BSP alliance, it would be a challenge for the BJP to repeat its 2014 performance of winning 73 seats, including two of Apna Dal.

The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will be at stake on seats like Gorakhpur and Phulpur won by them in 2014 but subsequently frittered away to the opposition in the bypolls last year.

The charisma of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will also be tested in these polls and she is trying to woo voters by reaching them.&nbsp;

The prestige of Congress state chief Rajbabbar, who is contesting from Fatehpur Sikri will also be at stake.

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

In politically crucial Uttar Pradesh, the focus will not only be on the performance of political parties but also on the VIPs seats, including those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. The poll results of the state, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats, can make or mar the prospects of any political party at the Centre. There will be many seats in the state which will be keenly watched by political observers as any setback there might have great political repercussions. "UP is the most politically crucial state and it results set the tone and tenor of national politics. All eyes will be here, especially on VIP seats where prominent leaders are in the fray," senior journalist JP Shukla said. "Whether the state is going to give the next prime minister or not is the answer everyone will be looking for with the performance of political parties," he said. While the outcome of the prime minister's Varanasi seat will be watched globally, other seats like Amethi and Raebareli of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi respectively will be of equal interest to the people. During the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Modi's slogan that "I have not come here...Mother Ganga has called me" struck an emotional chord with the people, who elected him as their representative. During his recent visit, Modi invoked Lord Vishwanath, saying, "I might have been called here to fulfil his dream to see the city developed." In Amethi, Union minister Smriti Irani will challenge Rahul Gandhi. She has been spending a lot of time with the voters there, making the BJP workers feel that she will make the Congress chief uncomfortable this time. Sonia Gandhi has been representing Rae Bareli since 1999, while Rahul Gandhi has been an MP from Amethi since 2004. The seats of Kannauj, held by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav, Badaun, held by Dharmendra Yadav (SP), and Azamgarh, from where SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav won in 2014, will also be crucial. While Dimple Yadav and Dharmendra will contest from their traditional seats, Mulayam Singh, this time, will be contesting from the Mainpuri seat. Akhilesh Yadav has decided to contest from Azamgarh after a formal request from the district unit. Home Minister Rajnath Singh is once again in the fray from the Lucknow seat, a BJP stronghold. Bollywood star Hema Malini is contesting again from Mathura, while the Ghaziabad seat held by Union minister Gen VK Singh (retd) will also be on the list of constituencies to watch. Another important seat will be of BJP leader Varun Gandhi, who is likely to leave the Sultanpur seat and contest from Pilibhit, represented by his mother and Union minister Maneka Gandhi. While these polls will be a litmus test for the SP-BSP alliance, it would be a challenge for the BJP to repeat its 2014 performance of winning 73 seats, including two of Apna Dal. The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will be at stake on seats like Gorakhpur and Phulpur won by them in 2014 but subsequently frittered away to the opposition in the bypolls last year. The charisma of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will also be tested in these polls and she is trying to woo voters by reaching them. The prestige of Congress state chief Rajbabbar, who is contesting from Fatehpur Sikri will also be at stake.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: All eyes on Uttar Pradesh’s VIP constituencies as heavyweights slug it out

Haryanvi folk singer and dancer Sapna Choudhary has refuted all reports of joining Congress on Sunday.

"I have not joined the Congress party. The photograph with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is old. I am not going to campaign for any political party", she said.

Earlier on March 23, there were reports that Choudhary, who wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Mathura against Hema Malini of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), met Congress General Secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia before joining the party.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Haryanavi singer &amp; dancer Sapna Chaudhary says, "I have not joined the Congress party. The photograph with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is old." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/brcvaKOAIQ">pic.twitter.com/brcvaKOAIQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1109761702130827266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mathura has a dominant Jat presence and Choudhary hails from the same background.

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Picture of Congress Membership Form with Sapna Chaudhary's name and signature on it and fee receipt from yesterday. Today, Haryanavi singer and dancer Sapna Chaudhary has claimed that her pictures are old and she is not a part of any political party. <a href="https://t.co/6kCUGlWvE3">pic.twitter.com/6kCUGlWvE3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1109770238739038208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Her quality may be gauged from the actual fact that Choudhary beat Sonam Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone and Radhika Apte within the list of ‘most searched ladies online in 2018’.&nbsp;

With 1.7 million followers, the former 'Bigg Boss' contestant was all over the news for her smashing makeover and transformation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Haryanvi folk singer and dancer Sapna Choudhary has refuted all reports of joining Congress on Sunday. "I have not joined the Congress party. The photograph with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is old.

Haryanvi folk singer and dancer Sapna Choudhary has refuted all reports of joining Congress on Sunday. "I have not joined the Congress party. The photograph with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is old. I am not going to campaign for any political party", she said. Earlier on March 23, there were reports that Choudhary, who wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Mathura against Hema Malini of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), met Congress General Secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia before joining the party. #WATCH Haryanavi singer & dancer Sapna Chaudhary says, "I have not joined the Congress party. The photograph with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is old." #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/brcvaKOAIQ — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2019 × Mathura has a dominant Jat presence and Choudhary hails from the same background. Picture of Congress Membership Form with Sapna Chaudhary's name and signature on it and fee receipt from yesterday. Today, Haryanavi singer and dancer Sapna Chaudhary has claimed that her pictures are old and she is not a part of any political party. pic.twitter.com/6kCUGlWvE3 — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2019 × Her quality may be gauged from the actual fact that Choudhary beat Sonam Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone and Radhika Apte within the list of ‘most searched ladies online in 2018’. With 1.7 million followers, the former 'Bigg Boss' contestant was all over the news for her smashing makeover and transformation. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Haryanvi artist Sapna Choudhary rubbishes reports of joining Congress

The BJP is optimistic about performing well in states where the party did not have much presence earlier which will help push its overall tally to 300 in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yeddyurappas-son-demands-inquiry-into-diary-controversy-205035">party's Karnataka unit president BS Yeddyurappa</a> said here.

In Karnataka too, the BJP is "doing well" in Hyderabad-Karnataka region and "already has good presence" in Mumbai-Karnataka and Central Karnataka, the former chief minister said, and claimed if the party wins 20 to 22 seats in the state, it would lead to collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government due to infighting.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the BJP won 17 seats out of 28, Congress bagged nine seats while the JD (S) got two seats. The Congress and the JD(S) are fighting in alliance this time, with the two parties agreeing to contest 20 and eight seats respectively.

"There is a positive atmosphere across the country. Narendra Modi's wave has only increased manifold compared to the last Lok Sabha elections. We are expecting to win seats from new territories like West Bengal, Odisha and other North-Eastern states. This would push BJP's overall tally to 300 Lok Sabha seats," he told PTI in an interview here.

The party is also expecting to improve its tally in Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, Yeddyurappa said, and expressed confidence that the party would open an account in Kerala.

Though the BJP lost Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assembly elections, the party is going to repeat its 2014 performance in Lok Sabha polls, he asserted.

The BJP's prospects are good in Karnataka as it is expecting to do well in Tumkuru and Mysuru, and put up a fight in Ramnagara and Hassan, which are JD(S) bastions, he added.

Yeddyurappa also claimed that Congress strongman Mallikarjun Kharge is in a difficult situation in Hyderabad-Karnataka region after his supporters - Mallikayya Guttedar, Umesh Jadhav, Baburao Chinchunsur and Malaka Reddy - deserted him to join BJP.

"I am very optimistic of the BJP doing well in Hyderabad-Karnataka region, especially Kalaburgi. I am sure the entry of Guttedar, Jadhav, Chinchunsur and Reddy, can turn the tables on Kharge. The Congress leader is in a lurch by missing these leaders who made possible his victories," he said.

"As it is, the BJP has good presence in Mumbai-Karnataka and Central Karnataka, historically," he said.

Yeddyurappa said they were expecting a positive impact from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rallies in Karnataka, "which have always worked in favour of the party".

"We have requested Modiji to address four rallies in Karnataka. The dates and places of rallies will be decided later," he said.

Asked about KPCC President Dinesh Gundurao's offer to Rahul Gandhi to contest from Karnataka, Yeddyurappa said the Congress is uncertain that Gandhi can retain Amethi seat, which he managed to win with a 50 per cent reduction in margin in last Lok Sabha elections against Smriti Irani.

"According to me, Rahul Gandhi is losing his Amethi seat to Shrimati Smriti Irani, and hence the Congress is offering him to contest from Karnataka. It will not be easy for him to win from Karnataka also. I think Rahul Gandhi will not take any such risk," he said.

Recently, Gundurao had written a letter asking Gandhi to contest elections from Karnataka so that it would act as a nucleus for the Congress to strengthen its position in southern parts of India.

Asked if the party is concerned about D K Shivakumar campaigning against B Y Raghavendra from Shivvamogga after wresting Ballari seat from BJP in the last bypoll, Yeddyurappa said his son would win by one lakh votes margin as he has been working for the last six months without any break.

Yeddyurappa also said he is beginning his election tour in the next two to three days.

Replying to a query, he said if BJP wins 20 to 22 seats, infighting in the Congress and JDS would begin, which would result in the collapse of the coalition government.&nbsp;

The BJP is optimistic about performing well in states where the party did not have much presence earlier which will help push its overall tally to 300 in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the party's Karnataka unit president BS Yeddyurappa said here.

The BJP is optimistic about performing well in states where the party did not have much presence earlier which will help push its overall tally to 300 in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the party's Karnataka unit president BS Yeddyurappa said here. In Karnataka too, the BJP is "doing well" in Hyderabad-Karnataka region and "already has good presence" in Mumbai-Karnataka and Central Karnataka, the former chief minister said, and claimed if the party wins 20 to 22 seats in the state, it would lead to collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government due to infighting. In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the BJP won 17 seats out of 28, Congress bagged nine seats while the JD (S) got two seats. The Congress and the JD(S) are fighting in alliance this time, with the two parties agreeing to contest 20 and eight seats respectively. "There is a positive atmosphere across the country. Narendra Modi's wave has only increased manifold compared to the last Lok Sabha elections. We are expecting to win seats from new territories like West Bengal, Odisha and other North-Eastern states. This would push BJP's overall tally to 300 Lok Sabha seats," he told PTI in an interview here. The party is also expecting to improve its tally in Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, Yeddyurappa said, and expressed confidence that the party would open an account in Kerala. Though the BJP lost Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan assembly elections, the party is going to repeat its 2014 performance in Lok Sabha polls, he asserted. The BJP's prospects are good in Karnataka as it is expecting to do well in Tumkuru and Mysuru, and put up a fight in Ramnagara and Hassan, which are JD(S) bastions, he added. Yeddyurappa also claimed that Congress strongman Mallikarjun Kharge is in a difficult situation in Hyderabad-Karnataka region after his supporters - Mallikayya Guttedar, Umesh Jadhav, Baburao Chinchunsur and Malaka Reddy - deserted him to join BJP. "I am very optimistic of the BJP doing well in Hyderabad-Karnataka region, especially Kalaburgi. I am sure the entry of Guttedar, Jadhav, Chinchunsur and Reddy, can turn the tables on Kharge. The Congress leader is in a lurch by missing these leaders who made possible his victories," he said. "As it is, the BJP has good presence in Mumbai-Karnataka and Central Karnataka, historically," he said. Yeddyurappa said they were expecting a positive impact from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rallies in Karnataka, "which have always worked in favour of the party". "We have requested Modiji to address four rallies in Karnataka. The dates and places of rallies will be decided later," he said. Asked about KPCC President Dinesh Gundurao's offer to Rahul Gandhi to contest from Karnataka, Yeddyurappa said the Congress is uncertain that Gandhi can retain Amethi seat, which he managed to win with a 50 per cent reduction in margin in last Lok Sabha elections against Smriti Irani. "According to me, Rahul Gandhi is losing his Amethi seat to Shrimati Smriti Irani, and hence the Congress is offering him to contest from Karnataka. It will not be easy for him to win from Karnataka also. I think Rahul Gandhi will not take any such risk," he said. Recently, Gundurao had written a letter asking Gandhi to contest elections from Karnataka so that it would act as a nucleus for the Congress to strengthen its position in southern parts of India. Asked if the party is concerned about D K Shivakumar campaigning against B Y Raghavendra from Shivvamogga after wresting Ballari seat from BJP in the last bypoll, Yeddyurappa said his son would win by one lakh votes margin as he has been working for the last six months without any break. Yeddyurappa also said he is beginning his election tour in the next two to three days. Replying to a query, he said if BJP wins 20 to 22 seats, infighting in the Congress and JDS would begin, which would result in the collapse of the coalition government.

Good performance in new territories would push BJP's tally to 300: Yeddyurappa

Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and BJP leader Dr Raman Singh on Saturday said that a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party's central election committee will be held later in the day today, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Singh said that the leaders are likely to take a final call on 6 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, following which the names of the candidates will be declared.

Singh's remarks came a day after the party released a list of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-list-of-36-candidates-sambit-patra-to-contest-from-puri-204967">36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls</a> in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections on Friday.&nbsp;

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Former Chhattisgarh CM Dr Raman Singh: A meeting of BJP Central Election Committee will be held today &amp; I think final decision on 6 Lok Sabha seats (in Chhattisgarh) will be taken &amp; candidates for these seats will be declared. <a href="https://t.co/3yqhM5pGp9">pic.twitter.com/3yqhM5pGp9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1109300999716524032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others.

The BJP on Thursday released its first list of candidates for the upcoming polls comprising 184 candidates including some of the biggest names in the party such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers like Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to contest from Varanasi again. BJP president Amit Shah replaced L K Advani in Gandhinagar constituency. Home Minister Rajnath Singh will contest from Lucknow.&nbsp;

Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and BJP leader Dr Raman Singh on Saturday said that a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party's central election committee will be held later in the day today, news agency ANI reported.

Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and BJP leader Dr Raman Singh on Saturday said that a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party's central election committee will be held later in the day today, news agency ANI reported. Singh said that the leaders are likely to take a final call on 6 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, following which the names of the candidates will be declared. Singh's remarks came a day after the party released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections on Friday. Former Chhattisgarh CM Dr Raman Singh: A meeting of BJP Central Election Committee will be held today & I think final decision on 6 Lok Sabha seats (in Chhattisgarh) will be taken & candidates for these seats will be declared. pic.twitter.com/3yqhM5pGp9 — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 × The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya). The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others. The BJP on Thursday released its first list of candidates for the upcoming polls comprising 184 candidates including some of the biggest names in the party such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers like Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani. Prime Minister Narendra Modi to contest from Varanasi again. BJP president Amit Shah replaced L K Advani in Gandhinagar constituency. Home Minister Rajnath Singh will contest from Lucknow.

Final call on 6 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh likely to be taken today: Raman Singh

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-releases-first-list-of-182-candidates-for-lok-sabha-polls-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-again-204704">candidates for Lok Sabha polls</a>&nbsp;in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections.

The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others.

Speaking to ANI after the CEC meeting, Union Minister JP Nadda said, "We have come out with a list of 36 new candidates which includes Odisha BJP President Basant Panda, senior leader Suresh Pujari and our spokesperson Sambit Patra. We would like to clear the first and second phase candidates as soon as possible and we`re working on it."

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BJP releases list of 36 candidates from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra, Odisha. Girish Bapat to contest from Pune (Maharashtra), Sambit Patra to contest from Puri (Odisha). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ft3C3cl1cX">pic.twitter.com/Ft3C3cl1cX</a>
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The first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be held on April 11, and results will be announced on May 23.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections. The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya). The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others. Speaking to ANI after the CEC meeting, Union Minister JP Nadda said, "We have come out with a list of 36 new candidates which includes Odisha BJP President Basant Panda, senior leader Suresh Pujari and our spokesperson Sambit Patra. We would like to clear the first and second phase candidates as soon as possible and we`re working on it." BJP releases list of 36 candidates from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra, Odisha. Girish Bapat to contest from Pune (Maharashtra), Sambit Patra to contest from Puri (Odisha). #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/Ft3C3cl1cX — ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2019 × The first phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be held on April 11, and results will be announced on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 36 candidates, Sambit Patra to contest from Puri

A day after releasing its first list of 184 candidates, the Central Election Committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday released its 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th lists of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections 2019.

The party announced the names of 48 candidates. The list was announced by Union Minister JP Nadda during a press conference in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The list was released by BJP's Central Election Committee secretary and Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here at a press conference. Out of 48 candidates, two are from Goa, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 15 from Gujarat, 10 from Jharkhand, 4 from Himachal Pradesh and two from Karnataka. BJP MP Janardan Mishra will contest from Madhya Pradesh`s Reva while MP Rakesh Singh from Jabalpur.

The BJP has fielded former BCCI President Anurag Thakur from Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Suresh Kashyap from Shimla, Kishan Kapoor from Kangra.

Among those contesting from Jharkhand include Sunil Soren from Dumka, Nishikant Dubey from Godda, and Pashupati Nath Singh from Dhanbad.

The BJP will support Sumalatha as the independent candidate from Karnataka`s Mandya.BJP also released its list of six candidates legislative assembly bye-polls in Gujarat and Goa candidates.

In Goa, BJP has fielded Dayanand Raghunath Sopte will contest from Mandrem, Joushua Peter Desouza from Mapusa and Subhash Ankush Shirodkar from Siroda.

Three Candidates each for the legislative assembly of Gujarat and Goa bye-polls were also announced.&nbsp;

Parsotambhai Sabariya (Dhrangradhra) Raghavjibhai Patel (Jamnagar Rural) and Javaharabhai Chavda (Manavadar) will contest bye-polls in Gujarat.&nbsp;

The seven-phase of 17th Lok Sabha elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(With inputs from ANI)

A day after releasing its first list of 184 candidates, the Central Election Committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday released its 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th lists of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections 2019.

A day after releasing its first list of 184 candidates, the Central Election Committee of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday released its 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th lists of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections 2019. The party announced the names of 48 candidates. The list was announced by Union Minister JP Nadda during a press conference in New Delhi. The list was released by BJP's Central Election Committee secretary and Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here at a press conference. Out of 48 candidates, two are from Goa, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 15 from Gujarat, 10 from Jharkhand, 4 from Himachal Pradesh and two from Karnataka. BJP MP Janardan Mishra will contest from Madhya Pradesh`s Reva while MP Rakesh Singh from Jabalpur. The BJP has fielded former BCCI President Anurag Thakur from Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Suresh Kashyap from Shimla, Kishan Kapoor from Kangra. Among those contesting from Jharkhand include Sunil Soren from Dumka, Nishikant Dubey from Godda, and Pashupati Nath Singh from Dhanbad. The BJP will support Sumalatha as the independent candidate from Karnataka`s Mandya.BJP also released its list of six candidates legislative assembly bye-polls in Gujarat and Goa candidates. In Goa, BJP has fielded Dayanand Raghunath Sopte will contest from Mandrem, Joushua Peter Desouza from Mapusa and Subhash Ankush Shirodkar from Siroda. Three Candidates each for the legislative assembly of Gujarat and Goa bye-polls were also announced. Parsotambhai Sabariya (Dhrangradhra) Raghavjibhai Patel (Jamnagar Rural) and Javaharabhai Chavda (Manavadar) will contest bye-polls in Gujarat. The seven-phase of 17th Lok Sabha elections in the country are slated to begin on April 11 and will go on till May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (With inputs from ANI)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP fields Anurag Thakur from Hamirpur, Jayant Sinha gets Hazaribagh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-submits-trump-russia-report-clamour-grows-for-its-quick-release-204966">Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release</a>

Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995">Pakistan national day: PM Modi writes </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995">letter</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-national-day-pm-modi-writes-letter-to-pak-pm-as-part-of-customary-practice-calls-for-terror-free-south-asia-204995"> to Pak PM as part of customary practice; calls for terror-free South Asia</a>

India has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had written a letter to Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan as part of the diplomatic practice of writing to the Heads of state/Govt on their respective National Days. The letter is sent to all countries with whom India shares diplomatic relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-asks-un-council-to-uphold-resolutions-on-golan-heights-204971">Syria asks UN council to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights</a>

Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraws from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muslims-return-to-christchurch-mosque-as-new-zealand-works-to-move-on-204991">Muslims return to Christchurch mosque as New Zealand works to move on</a>

Muslims returned to Christchurch's main mosque on Saturday for the first time since a white supremacist massacred worshippers there, as New Zealand sought to return to normality after the tragedy.

The Al Noor mosque was taken over by police for investigations and security reasons after alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant attacked Muslims gathered there and at a smaller mosque for Friday prayers, killing 50 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-list-of-36-candidates-sambit-patra-to-contest-from-puri-204967">Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 36 candidates, Sambit Patra to contest from Puri</a>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections.

The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release.

Mueller submits Trump-Russia report, clamour grows for its quick release Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Friday handed in a confidential report on his investigation into Russia's role in the 2016 presidential election and any potential wrongdoing by US President Donald Trump, setting off a clamour from lawmakers in both parties for the document's quick release. Pakistan national day: PM Modi writes letter to Pak PM as part of customary practice; calls for terror-free South Asia India has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had written a letter to Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan as part of the diplomatic practice of writing to the Heads of state/Govt on their respective National Days. The letter is sent to all countries with whom India shares diplomatic relations. Syria asks UN council to uphold resolutions on Golan Heights Syria on Friday asked the UN Security Council to uphold resolutions declaring that Israel withdraws from the Golan Heights after President Donald Trump said the United States would recognize Israel's annexation of the territory. Muslims return to Christchurch mosque as New Zealand works to move on Muslims returned to Christchurch's main mosque on Saturday for the first time since a white supremacist massacred worshippers there, as New Zealand sought to return to normality after the tragedy. The Al Noor mosque was taken over by police for investigations and security reasons after alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant attacked Muslims gathered there and at a smaller mosque for Friday prayers, killing 50 people. Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases list of 36 candidates, Sambit Patra to contest from Puri The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections. The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are all set to rope in star campaigners and senior party leaders for its election campaign in the state.

According to Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) spokesperson Gudur Narayan Reddy, the Congress has planned at least three public meetings to be addressed by party chief Rahul Gandhi and has urged the party to send AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi for the campaign in the state.

Reddy further said the list of star campaigners would be released after candidates are finalised for all constituencies in the state. "Roadshows and public meetings would be held as part of the campaign,” he added.

Meanwhile, BJP Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Ramchandra Rao said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have agreed to address four and six public meetings, respectively, in Telangana. Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitaraman will visit Telangana in the coming days, he added.

Rao also said the schedule of their campaign will be announced in a day or two.

All 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana will go to polls in a single phase on April 11.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are all set to rope in star campaigners and senior party leaders for its election campaign in the state.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are all set to rope in star campaigners and senior party leaders for its election campaign in the state. According to Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) spokesperson Gudur Narayan Reddy, the Congress has planned at least three public meetings to be addressed by party chief Rahul Gandhi and has urged the party to send AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi for the campaign in the state. Reddy further said the list of star campaigners would be released after candidates are finalised for all constituencies in the state. "Roadshows and public meetings would be held as part of the campaign,” he added. Meanwhile, BJP Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Ramchandra Rao said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have agreed to address four and six public meetings, respectively, in Telangana. Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitaraman will visit Telangana in the coming days, he added. Rao also said the schedule of their campaign will be announced in a day or two. All 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana will go to polls in a single phase on April 11.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP, Congress to rope in star campaigners for Telangana

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday addressed a press conference and raised questions about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-it-going-to-be-rahul-gandhi-vs-narendra-modi-in-2019-185056">Rahul Gandhi</a>’s source of income.&nbsp;

BJP leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the media that Gandhi's income had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014 as per his election affidavits, and asked how can a mere MP witness such a jump in income.

"In his election affidavit in 2004, his income was Rs 55,38,123 while in 2009, it rose to Rs 2 crore and in 2014 it rose to Rs 9 crore. We know how much an MP earns. We want to ask what is this Rahul Gandhi model of development without an ostensible source of income," he said.

He also questioned Gandhi whether he had bought two properties from Unitech which was linked to the 2G spectrum allocation scam.&nbsp;

Prasad ended his press conference with a demand for Rahul Gandhi to answer the questions that he had raised.

There was no immediate response from the Congress.

(With inputs from PTI)

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday addressed a press conference and raised questions about Rahul Gandhi’s source of income. BJP leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the media that Gandhi's income had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014 as per his election affidavits, and asked how can a mere MP witness such a jump in income.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Saturday addressed a press conference and raised questions about Rahul Gandhi’s source of income. BJP leader and Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the media that Gandhi's income had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014 as per his election affidavits, and asked how can a mere MP witness such a jump in income. "In his election affidavit in 2004, his income was Rs 55,38,123 while in 2009, it rose to Rs 2 crore and in 2014 it rose to Rs 9 crore. We know how much an MP earns. We want to ask what is this Rahul Gandhi model of development without an ostensible source of income," he said. He also questioned Gandhi whether he had bought two properties from Unitech which was linked to the 2G spectrum allocation scam. Prasad ended his press conference with a demand for Rahul Gandhi to answer the questions that he had raised. There was no immediate response from the Congress. (With inputs from PTI)

How did Rahul Gandhi's assets grow from Rs 55 lakh to Rs 9 crore? asks BJP

The ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, who are ready to battle it out in the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal, are preferring turncoats over their tried and tested leaders. There is discontent over candidate selection within both the parties dominating the poll scenario in the state.&nbsp;

Senior TMC leader and it's South Dinajpur district chief Biplab Mitra said there is anger among grass-roots level workers of the party over giving tickets to newcomers and ignoring the old-timers.

The TMC is going solo and has declared names of candidates for all 42 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP declared its first list of 28 contestants in the state Thursday. The two parties defend their decision, saying winnability was of prime consideration for them.

However, the TMC feels it is the best way to quell the infighting in the party, whereas for the BJP, fielding turncoats had become a compulsion as it did not have enough candidates to assure its victory. “We have party leaders and workers who are working very hard. We had given them tickets in panchayat and assembly polls. But in case of fighting Lok Sabha polls, we don’t have enough candidates who can put up a fight and win,” state BJP chief Dilip Ghosh said last Friday.

Out of 18 new faces in TMC’s list, seven are those who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years. Two of the TMC’s sitting MPs in the north and south Bengal — Dasarth Tirkey and Sunil Mondal — who have been renominated this time, used to be MLAs of Left Front constituents RSP and Forward Bloc, respectively. BJP’s list has six candidates who were earlier either with the TMC or the CPI(M).

It also includes the name of an ex-IPS officer, who was once considered close to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee. A TMC leader told PTI on condition of anonymity that infighting is one of the biggest problems being faced by the party this time. “There are so many factions in every district that it was next to impossible to bring all the disgruntled leaders on the same page… That is why in at least seven seats which are considered tough, we have pitted those who have come from other parties so that opposing factions will at least unite under their umbrellas to help us win,” he said.

Out of the seven candidates who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years, three have been nominated from Bolpur, Medinipur and Coochbehar which the TMC had won last time. In Malda North, Raiganj, Jangipur and Murshidabad seats, which were won by the Congress and the CPI(M) last time, the TMC has nominated MLAs and MPs who had switched over from the Congress in the last two years.

“In Cooch Behar, former Left Front minister Paresh Chandra Adhikary was nominated as only a strong candidate can ensure in retaining the seat in the face of factionalism and resurgent BJP there,” said a senior TMC MLA from north Bengal. The reason is the same behind nominating former state Congress president Manas Bhunia from Mednipur and Asit Mal from Bolpur.

Former Congress MP Mausam Benazir Noor, who crossed over to the TMC, and has been nominated from Malda North seat told PTI, “I had joined TMC as I feel only it can fight against communal BJP in the state.” On the other hand, sitting TMC MP from Bolpur, Anupam Hazra has switched over to the BJP and has been fielded from Jadavpur seat in the city.

In Murshidabad, TMC youth leader and key organisational man Shamik Hossain was overlooked in favour of former Congress MLA Abu Taher, who had switched over only last year. The situation is more difficult in the BJP, which had won two seats in 2014 and now targeting to win 23 seats in the state.

The BJP has emerged as the main opposition party after the 2018 panchayat polls. The party in its first list has five candidates who had recently defected to it from the TMC and one from the CPI(M). Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh who recently joined BJP will be contesting Ghatal Lok Sabha seat on the party’s ticket. During her stint as the Jhargram SP, she was considered to be the defacto TMC district president.

Former TMC MLA Arjun Singh, who recently switched over to the BJP, has been pitted against TMC’s Dinesh Trivedi in Barrackpore. Singh had quit the TMC recently after the party denied him a ticket for the Barrackpore seat. Former TMC MP Soumitra Khan has been given BJP ticket from his Bishnupur seat, while former CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu will contest on a BJP ticket from Malda North.

Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested polls on that party’s ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from Malda South seat this time, while TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, who was expelled last year, has been fielded from Cooch Behar.

The BJP has fielded another TMC turncoat Bolpur MP Anupam Hazra from Jadavpur. BJP leader Mukul Roy, once TMC’s number two, defended the saffron party’s decision on fielding turncoats. “Anybody who wants to fight against TMC misrule in Bengal is welcome,” Roy said.

BJP workers had staged a protest in Cooch Behar and Malda North against the party’s decision to nominate TMC and CPI(M) leaders instead of local party leaders. Several BJP leaders, including its vice president Raj Kamal Pathak, have submitted their resignation and protests have been organised in various parts of the state over candidate selection. The seven-phase polling in the state will begin on April 11.

The ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, who are ready to battle it out in the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal, are preferring turncoats over their tried and tested leaders.

The ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, who are ready to battle it out in the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal, are preferring turncoats over their tried and tested leaders. There is discontent over candidate selection within both the parties dominating the poll scenario in the state. Senior TMC leader and it's South Dinajpur district chief Biplab Mitra said there is anger among grass-roots level workers of the party over giving tickets to newcomers and ignoring the old-timers. The TMC is going solo and has declared names of candidates for all 42 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP declared its first list of 28 contestants in the state Thursday. The two parties defend their decision, saying winnability was of prime consideration for them. However, the TMC feels it is the best way to quell the infighting in the party, whereas for the BJP, fielding turncoats had become a compulsion as it did not have enough candidates to assure its victory. “We have party leaders and workers who are working very hard. We had given them tickets in panchayat and assembly polls. But in case of fighting Lok Sabha polls, we don’t have enough candidates who can put up a fight and win,” state BJP chief Dilip Ghosh said last Friday. Out of 18 new faces in TMC’s list, seven are those who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years. Two of the TMC’s sitting MPs in the north and south Bengal — Dasarth Tirkey and Sunil Mondal — who have been renominated this time, used to be MLAs of Left Front constituents RSP and Forward Bloc, respectively. BJP’s list has six candidates who were earlier either with the TMC or the CPI(M). It also includes the name of an ex-IPS officer, who was once considered close to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee. A TMC leader told PTI on condition of anonymity that infighting is one of the biggest problems being faced by the party this time. “There are so many factions in every district that it was next to impossible to bring all the disgruntled leaders on the same page… That is why in at least seven seats which are considered tough, we have pitted those who have come from other parties so that opposing factions will at least unite under their umbrellas to help us win,” he said. Out of the seven candidates who have either switched over from the Congress or the Left parties in the past few years, three have been nominated from Bolpur, Medinipur and Coochbehar which the TMC had won last time. In Malda North, Raiganj, Jangipur and Murshidabad seats, which were won by the Congress and the CPI(M) last time, the TMC has nominated MLAs and MPs who had switched over from the Congress in the last two years. “In Cooch Behar, former Left Front minister Paresh Chandra Adhikary was nominated as only a strong candidate can ensure in retaining the seat in the face of factionalism and resurgent BJP there,” said a senior TMC MLA from north Bengal. The reason is the same behind nominating former state Congress president Manas Bhunia from Mednipur and Asit Mal from Bolpur. Former Congress MP Mausam Benazir Noor, who crossed over to the TMC, and has been nominated from Malda North seat told PTI, “I had joined TMC as I feel only it can fight against communal BJP in the state.” On the other hand, sitting TMC MP from Bolpur, Anupam Hazra has switched over to the BJP and has been fielded from Jadavpur seat in the city. In Murshidabad, TMC youth leader and key organisational man Shamik Hossain was overlooked in favour of former Congress MLA Abu Taher, who had switched over only last year. The situation is more difficult in the BJP, which had won two seats in 2014 and now targeting to win 23 seats in the state. The BJP has emerged as the main opposition party after the 2018 panchayat polls. The party in its first list has five candidates who had recently defected to it from the TMC and one from the CPI(M). Former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh who recently joined BJP will be contesting Ghatal Lok Sabha seat on the party’s ticket. During her stint as the Jhargram SP, she was considered to be the defacto TMC district president. Former TMC MLA Arjun Singh, who recently switched over to the BJP, has been pitted against TMC’s Dinesh Trivedi in Barrackpore. Singh had quit the TMC recently after the party denied him a ticket for the Barrackpore seat. Former TMC MP Soumitra Khan has been given BJP ticket from his Bishnupur seat, while former CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu will contest on a BJP ticket from Malda North. Former TMC leader Sreerupa Mitra Chowdhury, who had contested polls on that party’s ticket from New Delhi, is the BJP candidate from Malda South seat this time, while TMC youth leader Nishith Pramanik, who was expelled last year, has been fielded from Cooch Behar. The BJP has fielded another TMC turncoat Bolpur MP Anupam Hazra from Jadavpur. BJP leader Mukul Roy, once TMC’s number two, defended the saffron party’s decision on fielding turncoats. “Anybody who wants to fight against TMC misrule in Bengal is welcome,” Roy said. BJP workers had staged a protest in Cooch Behar and Malda North against the party’s decision to nominate TMC and CPI(M) leaders instead of local party leaders. Several BJP leaders, including its vice president Raj Kamal Pathak, have submitted their resignation and protests have been organised in various parts of the state over candidate selection. The seven-phase polling in the state will begin on April 11.

Lok Sabha election 2019: In West Bengal, BJP, TMC bank on turncoats to win poll battle

The Shiv Sena Saturday said L K Advani would remain the “tallest leader” of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch. In an editorial in the party mouthpiece “Saamana”, the Sena said Shah contesting in place of Advani is politically translated as the ‘Bhishmacharya’ of Indian politics being “forced” to retire.

“Lal Krishna Advani is known as the ‘Bhishmacharya’ of Indian politics, but his name does not feature in the list of BJP’s candidates for Lok Sabha polls, which is not surprising,” the edit said. The Sena said the development underlined that the BJP’s Advani era has come to an end. “Advani has been elected from Gujarat’s Gandhinagar constituency six times. Now, Amit Shah will be contesting from that seat. This simply means Advani has been forced to retire,” the editorial said. Marking a generational shift in the BJP, the party recently announced candidature of Shah, who will be contesting his debut parliamentary election, from Gandhinagar.

Advani, 91, had served as Union home minister and deputy prime minister. He won the Gandhinagar seat six times. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP to a massive victory in 2014 and Shah was made the party president, Advani was made a member of Margdarshak Mandal (a group of mentors).

The Sena said, “Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. “But today, Modi and Shah have taken the place of them (Vajpayee and Advani). An environment has already been created in the party to ensure that seniors do not get any responsibility this time,” it stated. The Sena further said Advani has played a “long innings” in politics and would remain the “tallest leader” of the BJP.

The Sena is contesting the next month’s Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the BJP. The Sena said it didn’t believe that a leader retains his top position only if he continues to be in active politics. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party also attacked the Congress which has said the Gandhinagar seat has been snatched from Advani.

“The party (Congress) should not talk about insult to elders. The then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, who had steered the Congress governments in difficult times, was insulted by the party even after his death,” it said.

The Sena also referred to the 2013 incident when Rahul Gandhi tore an ordinance (on protecting convicted lawmakers) in the presence of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh. “What happened with Sitaram Kesari (former Congress president who was succeeded by Sonia Gandhi)?….Therefore it does not suit the Congress to talk about respecting elders,” the Sena said.

Praising Advani, the Sena said he was responsible for expanding the BJP’s footprint across the country. “Every shining sun has to set. The BJP could reach the top because of Advani’s ‘Rath Yatra’ in Ayodhya in the 1990s. The BJP is reaping (dividends) because of Advani’s toil,” the Sena said.

The Shiv Sena Saturday said L K Advani would remain the “tallest leader” of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch.

The Shiv Sena Saturday said L K Advani would remain the “tallest leader” of the BJP irrespective of his poll presence, two days after the party nominated its chief Amit Shah from Gandhinagar, a seat represented by the BJP patriarch. In an editorial in the party mouthpiece “Saamana”, the Sena said Shah contesting in place of Advani is politically translated as the ‘Bhishmacharya’ of Indian politics being “forced” to retire. “Lal Krishna Advani is known as the ‘Bhishmacharya’ of Indian politics, but his name does not feature in the list of BJP’s candidates for Lok Sabha polls, which is not surprising,” the edit said. The Sena said the development underlined that the BJP’s Advani era has come to an end. “Advani has been elected from Gujarat’s Gandhinagar constituency six times. Now, Amit Shah will be contesting from that seat. This simply means Advani has been forced to retire,” the editorial said. Marking a generational shift in the BJP, the party recently announced candidature of Shah, who will be contesting his debut parliamentary election, from Gandhinagar. Advani, 91, had served as Union home minister and deputy prime minister. He won the Gandhinagar seat six times. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the BJP to a massive victory in 2014 and Shah was made the party president, Advani was made a member of Margdarshak Mandal (a group of mentors). The Sena said, “Advani was one of the founding members of the BJP, who along with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee steered the rath of the party ahead. “But today, Modi and Shah have taken the place of them (Vajpayee and Advani). An environment has already been created in the party to ensure that seniors do not get any responsibility this time,” it stated. The Sena further said Advani has played a “long innings” in politics and would remain the “tallest leader” of the BJP. The Sena is contesting the next month’s Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the BJP. The Sena said it didn’t believe that a leader retains his top position only if he continues to be in active politics. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party also attacked the Congress which has said the Gandhinagar seat has been snatched from Advani. “The party (Congress) should not talk about insult to elders. The then prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, who had steered the Congress governments in difficult times, was insulted by the party even after his death,” it said. The Sena also referred to the 2013 incident when Rahul Gandhi tore an ordinance (on protecting convicted lawmakers) in the presence of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh. “What happened with Sitaram Kesari (former Congress president who was succeeded by Sonia Gandhi)?….Therefore it does not suit the Congress to talk about respecting elders,” the Sena said. Praising Advani, the Sena said he was responsible for expanding the BJP’s footprint across the country. “Every shining sun has to set. The BJP could reach the top because of Advani’s ‘Rath Yatra’ in Ayodhya in the 1990s. The BJP is reaping (dividends) because of Advani’s toil,” the Sena said.

LK Advani ‘Bhishmacharya’ of Indian politics, says Shiv Sena after BJP denies him poll ticket

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday.

Naqvi's remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi used Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack to tear into the Opposition, saying they reflect the Congress' unwillingness to respond to forces of terror.

Reacting to it, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala had said, "Whether it is Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them."

A "political competition" is going on every day to create confusion on nation's dignity and security through "fake and fabricated agenda", Naqvi told reporters here.

The people of the country will teach a lesson to this "gang" for insulting the bravery of the security forces of the country, he said.

Naqvi alleged that the Congress leaders are "mourning" the deaths of terrorists.

"Demanding proof, raising the question on the killing of terrorists -- what an amazing 'Pakistan-Congress Jugalbandi', he said.

The "gaali gang" that has been indulging in an "abuse competition" against Prime Minister Modi is now insulting bravery of the country's security forces, he alleged.

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday.

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday. Naqvi's remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi used Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack to tear into the Opposition, saying they reflect the Congress' unwillingness to respond to forces of terror. Reacting to it, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala had said, "Whether it is Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them." A "political competition" is going on every day to create confusion on nation's dignity and security through "fake and fabricated agenda", Naqvi told reporters here. The people of the country will teach a lesson to this "gang" for insulting the bravery of the security forces of the country, he said. Naqvi alleged that the Congress leaders are "mourning" the deaths of terrorists. "Demanding proof, raising the question on the killing of terrorists -- what an amazing 'Pakistan-Congress Jugalbandi', he said. The "gaali gang" that has been indulging in an "abuse competition" against Prime Minister Modi is now insulting bravery of the country's security forces, he alleged.

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi: Those abusing PM Narendra Modi now insulting security forces

The National Democratic Alliance on Saturday released its list for 39 out of the total 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which will contest the general polls in Bihar in alliance with Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and Ram Vilas Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), will contest 17 seats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to reports, the JD(U) will also fight on 17 seats while 6 seats go to the LPJ.&nbsp;

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will contest from Shatrughan Sinha's Patna Sahib seat.

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BJP in-charge for Bihar, Bhupendra Yadav: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to be BJP’s candidate from Patna Sahib.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/LIVPmAFOLA">pic.twitter.com/LIVPmAFOLA</a>
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BJP's party in-charge for Bihar, Bhupendra Yadav announced that Lok Janshakti Party's Chandan Kumar will contest from Nawada. LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan's son, Chirag Paswan, is fielded from Jamui seat while his brother&nbsp;Ram Vilas Paswan's brother Pashupati Kumar Paras to contest from Hajipur

Besides this, Ramkirpal Yadav will contest from Patliputra, RK Singh from Arrah, Aswani Choubey from Buxar, Radha Mohan Singh from East Champaran, Rajiv Pratap Rudy from Saran, Yadav stated.

Meanwhile, former Chhattisgarh chief minister and BJP leader Dr Raman Singh on Saturday said that a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party's central election committee will be held later in the day today, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Singh said that the leaders are likely to take a final call on 6 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, following which the names of the candidates will be declared.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections.

The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-list-of-36-candidates-sambit-patra-to-contest-from-puri-204967">national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha)</a>, Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya).

The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others.

The National Democratic Alliance on Saturday released its list for 39 out of the total 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which will contest the general polls in Bihar in alliance with Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and Ram Vilas Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), will contest 17 seats.

The National Democratic Alliance on Saturday released its list for 39 out of the total 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which will contest the general polls in Bihar in alliance with Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and Ram Vilas Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), will contest 17 seats. According to reports, the JD(U) will also fight on 17 seats while 6 seats go to the LPJ. Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will contest from Shatrughan Sinha's Patna Sahib seat. BJP in-charge for Bihar, Bhupendra Yadav: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to be BJP’s candidate from Patna Sahib.#LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/LIVPmAFOLA — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2019 × BJP's party in-charge for Bihar, Bhupendra Yadav announced that Lok Janshakti Party's Chandan Kumar will contest from Nawada. LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan's son, Chirag Paswan, is fielded from Jamui seat while his brother Ram Vilas Paswan's brother Pashupati Kumar Paras to contest from Hajipur Besides this, Ramkirpal Yadav will contest from Patliputra, RK Singh from Arrah, Aswani Choubey from Buxar, Radha Mohan Singh from East Champaran, Rajiv Pratap Rudy from Saran, Yadav stated. Meanwhile, former Chhattisgarh chief minister and BJP leader Dr Raman Singh on Saturday said that a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party's central election committee will be held later in the day today, news agency ANI reported. Singh said that the leaders are likely to take a final call on 6 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, following which the names of the candidates will be declared. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday released a list of 36 candidates for Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra and Odisha ahead of the general elections. The party has fielded Girish Bapat from Pune (Maharashtra), its national spokesperson Sambit Patra from Puri (Odisha), Dilip Kumar Kilaru from Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Bharati Pawar from Dindori (Maharashtra) and Sanbor Shullai from Shillong (Meghalaya). The decision was taken after a meeting of the Central Election Committee of the BJP in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others.

Lok Sabha polls: NDA releases list of candidates for Bihar, Ravi Shankar Prasad replaces Shatrughan Sinha in Patna Sahib seat

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The announcement was made in the presence of Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Ravi Shankar Prasad.&nbsp;

BJP sources said Gambhir is likely to be fielded from the New Delhi constituency, currently represented by Meenakshi Lekhi.&nbsp;

However, a&nbsp;final decision is yet to be taken, they added.

After joining the party, Gambhir said, "I am joining this party(BJP) after getting influenced&nbsp;by PM Narendra Modi's vision. I am honoured to get the opportunity to join this platform."&nbsp;

Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-confers-padma-awards-hs-phoolka-cricketer-gautam-gambhir-bollywood-actor-manoj-bajpayee-receive-padma-shri-203672">Gambhir was honoured with the Padma Shri award</a> for his contribution&nbsp;to the world of cricket.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Former Cricketer Gautam Gambhir joins Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP) in the presence of Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Ravi Shankar Prasad <a href="https://t.co/EYmhfSSMy7">pic.twitter.com/EYmhfSSMy7</a>
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In his cricketing career, Gambhir earned 58 Test caps and scored nine centuries and 22 fifties in the Test format.&nbsp;

The left-handed batsman announced his retirement in the year 2018 after completing 10,000 runs in List-A cricket.&nbsp;

Gambhir's performance in the finals of the 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan and the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka helped India win both the titles.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The announcement was made in the presence of Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The announcement was made in the presence of Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Ravi Shankar Prasad. BJP sources said Gambhir is likely to be fielded from the New Delhi constituency, currently represented by Meenakshi Lekhi. However, a final decision is yet to be taken, they added. After joining the party, Gambhir said, "I am joining this party(BJP) after getting influenced by PM Narendra Modi's vision. I am honoured to get the opportunity to join this platform." Earlier this month, Gambhir was honoured with the Padma Shri award for his contribution to the world of cricket. Delhi: Former Cricketer Gautam Gambhir joins Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP) in the presence of Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Ravi Shankar Prasad pic.twitter.com/EYmhfSSMy7 — ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2019 × In his cricketing career, Gambhir earned 58 Test caps and scored nine centuries and 22 fifties in the Test format. The left-handed batsman announced his retirement in the year 2018 after completing 10,000 runs in List-A cricket. Gambhir's performance in the finals of the 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan and the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka helped India win both the titles.

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir pads up for political innings, joins BJP

K. Chandrashekar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) on Thursday announced its candidates for all the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana.

The party has again fielded KCR's daughter K Kavitha from the Nizamabad Lok Sabha seat.

Besides her, Vemireddy Narasimha Reddy will contest from Nalgonda, Pasunuri Dayaker from Warangal, G Nagesh from Adilabad, Talasani Saikiran Yadav from Secunderabad, Manne Srinivas Reddy from Mahabubnagar and Puste Srikanth from Hyderabad, among others.

The party has also announced two names for the Legislative Council positions out of the four legislative council seats that are going to be vacated shortly.

The Telangana Chief Minister has picked Nalgonda MP Gutha Sukhender Reddy and Kukatpally TRS leader Kurmaiah Gari Naveen Rao for the two seats.

Telangana will go to polls in a single phase for all 17 Lok Sabha seats at stake on April 11.&nbsp;

K. Chandrashekar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) on Thursday announced its candidates for all the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. The party has again fielded KCR's daughter K Kavitha from the Nizamabad Lok Sabha seat.

K. Chandrashekar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) on Thursday announced its candidates for all the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. The party has again fielded KCR's daughter K Kavitha from the Nizamabad Lok Sabha seat. Besides her, Vemireddy Narasimha Reddy will contest from Nalgonda, Pasunuri Dayaker from Warangal, G Nagesh from Adilabad, Talasani Saikiran Yadav from Secunderabad, Manne Srinivas Reddy from Mahabubnagar and Puste Srikanth from Hyderabad, among others. The party has also announced two names for the Legislative Council positions out of the four legislative council seats that are going to be vacated shortly. The Telangana Chief Minister has picked Nalgonda MP Gutha Sukhender Reddy and Kukatpally TRS leader Kurmaiah Gari Naveen Rao for the two seats. Telangana will go to polls in a single phase for all 17 Lok Sabha seats at stake on April 11.

Lok Sabha elections: TRS announces candidates for 17 seats in Telangana

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-releases-first-list-of-182-candidates-for-lok-sabha-polls-modi-to-contest-from-varanasi-again-204704">Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday released</a> another list for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls wherein Lalubhai Patel, a two-time MP from Daman and Diu, has been fielded from the Lok Sabha constituency. Patel won the Daman and Diu Lok Sabha constituency for BJP in 2009 and 2014 elections. Voting for the constituency will be held on April 23 during the third phase of polling, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

In the meanwhile, the party also released a list of 100 candidates who will contest the assembly polls in Odisha.&nbsp;

Damodar Rout, Kusum Tete, Prakash Behera, and K Narayan Rao, who recently joined BJP after quitting BJD, have been given tickets to contest polls in the state. Rout has been fielded from Balikuda-Ersama assembly constituency, Prakash Behera from Salepur, Kusum Tete from Sundergarh and K Narayan Rao from Paralakhemundi, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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BJP releases 2nd list of candidate for upcoming Lok Sabha elections - Lalubhai Patel to contest from Daman &amp; Diu Parliamentary constituency. The voting for the constituency will be held on 23rd April in the 3rd phase of polling. <a href="https://t.co/GsT37uknlm">pic.twitter.com/GsT37uknlm</a>
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In the 2014 Assembly elections, BJP had won 10 out of 147 seats in Odisha. Odisha will be going to polls in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The state will be voting simultaneously for parliamentary and assembly constituencies. There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats in Odisha.&nbsp;

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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) releases list of 100 candidates for the upcoming Odisha assembly elections. <a href="https://t.co/U3ywkecTxV">pic.twitter.com/U3ywkecTxV</a>
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Besides this, the BJP also announced the names of 10 candidates in Telangana for the upcoming Lok Sabha election. Former Congress leader and ex-Minister DK Aruna, who joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah in Delhi on Tuesday, has been fielded from Mahbubnagar Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

The party is yet to announce seven more candidates in Telangana. Hyderabad is touted to be the main Lok Sabha constituency for the BJP from where AIMIM party president Asaduddin Owaisi is contesting. Telangana will go to polls in a single phase for all 17 Lok Sabha seats on April 11.&nbsp;

The BJP released the first list of candidates for the upcoming polls comprising 184 candidates including some of the biggest names in the party such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers like Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to contest from Varanasi again. BJP president Amit Shah replaced L K Advani in Gandhinagar constituency. Home Minister Rajnath Singh will contest from Lucknow.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday released another list for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls wherein Lalubhai Patel, a two-time MP from Daman and Diu, has been fielded from the Lok Sabha constituency.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday released another list for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls wherein Lalubhai Patel, a two-time MP from Daman and Diu, has been fielded from the Lok Sabha constituency. Patel won the Daman and Diu Lok Sabha constituency for BJP in 2009 and 2014 elections. Voting for the constituency will be held on April 23 during the third phase of polling, and counting of votes will take place on May 23. In the meanwhile, the party also released a list of 100 candidates who will contest the assembly polls in Odisha. Damodar Rout, Kusum Tete, Prakash Behera, and K Narayan Rao, who recently joined BJP after quitting BJD, have been given tickets to contest polls in the state. Rout has been fielded from Balikuda-Ersama assembly constituency, Prakash Behera from Salepur, Kusum Tete from Sundergarh and K Narayan Rao from Paralakhemundi, news agency ANI reported. BJP releases 2nd list of candidate for upcoming Lok Sabha elections - Lalubhai Patel to contest from Daman & Diu Parliamentary constituency. The voting for the constituency will be held on 23rd April in the 3rd phase of polling. pic.twitter.com/GsT37uknlm — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2019 × In the 2014 Assembly elections, BJP had won 10 out of 147 seats in Odisha. Odisha will be going to polls in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The state will be voting simultaneously for parliamentary and assembly constituencies. There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats in Odisha. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) releases list of 100 candidates for the upcoming Odisha assembly elections. pic.twitter.com/U3ywkecTxV — ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2019 × Besides this, the BJP also announced the names of 10 candidates in Telangana for the upcoming Lok Sabha election. Former Congress leader and ex-Minister DK Aruna, who joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah in Delhi on Tuesday, has been fielded from Mahbubnagar Lok Sabha constituency. The party is yet to announce seven more candidates in Telangana. Hyderabad is touted to be the main Lok Sabha constituency for the BJP from where AIMIM party president Asaduddin Owaisi is contesting. Telangana will go to polls in a single phase for all 17 Lok Sabha seats on April 11. The BJP released the first list of candidates for the upcoming polls comprising 184 candidates including some of the biggest names in the party such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party chief Amit Shah and Union ministers like Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani. Prime Minister Narendra Modi to contest from Varanasi again. BJP president Amit Shah replaced L K Advani in Gandhinagar constituency. Home Minister Rajnath Singh will contest from Lucknow. (With inputs from ANI)

BJP announces list of 100 candidates for Odisha assembly polls 

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday.

It also claimed Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would spoil the game for the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, reasoning the vote bank of the Congress and Mayawati is similar.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the NDA constituent said Pawar and Mayawati not contesting was a sign that the road was clear for Narendra Modi to return victorious as Prime Minister.

"Along with Sharad Pawar, Mayawati too has decided not to contest Lok Sabha polls, the importance of which is that they are out of the prime ministerial race," the Sena editorial said.

Quoting Mayawati, it said she wants to campaign for her party's candidates across the country, hence she chose not to contest herself.

However, the editorial reasoned, the BSP has presence only in Uttar Pradesh, and, therefore, the decision to opt out meant she was running way from a fight.

Pawar has sought a similar escape route from Madha Lok Sabha constituency, it claimed.

Taking a dig at the NCP chief, the Sena said Pawar is trying to unite the entire Opposition but couldn't bring his own family and party members on the same page and therefore had to opt out.

"Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil's decision to leave the NCP and join the BJP is a big blow for Pawar. It will stop the second hand of the NCP's clock, which is anyway running slow," the Sena said sarcastically.

On Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, it said, "In 2014, Dalits and Yadavs had voted heavily for Modi and not a single candidate of Mayawati could win. This scare haunts her even today. Priyanka's 'tourism' visits are getting a good response and there is a fear in Mayawati that the Congress leader will spoil her prospects from wherever she decides to contest," it said.

The editorial went on to claim that Mayawati's prime fear is the Congress and not BJP and one of the reasons for her not contesting is Priyanka's foray in active politics.

"Neither Sharad Pawar nor Mayawati is contesting. Therefore, two people who dreamt of being Prime Minister are no more contenders. This proves the mettle of the NDA," it said.

Pawar and Mayawati's decision is a clear indication that the road for Modi to become PM against is clear and the NDA's win is certain, the Sena said.&nbsp;

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar and BSP president Mayawati's opting out of the Lok Sabha polls is a clear indication of a certain victory for the NDA, the Shiv Sena said Friday. It also claimed Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would spoil the game for the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh, reasoning the vote bank of the Congress and Mayawati is similar. In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the NDA constituent said Pawar and Mayawati not contesting was a sign that the road was clear for Narendra Modi to return victorious as Prime Minister. "Along with Sharad Pawar, Mayawati too has decided not to contest Lok Sabha polls, the importance of which is that they are out of the prime ministerial race," the Sena editorial said. Quoting Mayawati, it said she wants to campaign for her party's candidates across the country, hence she chose not to contest herself. However, the editorial reasoned, the BSP has presence only in Uttar Pradesh, and, therefore, the decision to opt out meant she was running way from a fight. Pawar has sought a similar escape route from Madha Lok Sabha constituency, it claimed. Taking a dig at the NCP chief, the Sena said Pawar is trying to unite the entire Opposition but couldn't bring his own family and party members on the same page and therefore had to opt out. "Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil's decision to leave the NCP and join the BJP is a big blow for Pawar. It will stop the second hand of the NCP's clock, which is anyway running slow," the Sena said sarcastically. On Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, it said, "In 2014, Dalits and Yadavs had voted heavily for Modi and not a single candidate of Mayawati could win. This scare haunts her even today. Priyanka's 'tourism' visits are getting a good response and there is a fear in Mayawati that the Congress leader will spoil her prospects from wherever she decides to contest," it said. The editorial went on to claim that Mayawati's prime fear is the Congress and not BJP and one of the reasons for her not contesting is Priyanka's foray in active politics. "Neither Sharad Pawar nor Mayawati is contesting. Therefore, two people who dreamt of being Prime Minister are no more contenders. This proves the mettle of the NDA," it said. Pawar and Mayawati's decision is a clear indication that the road for Modi to become PM against is clear and the NDA's win is certain, the Sena said.

Sharad Pawar, Mayawati not contesting indication of NDA's win: Shiv Sena

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has said the leaders of his political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), will not indulge in horse-trading in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"The needle in the balance will be Makkal Needhi Maiam. We will not be sold, we won`t indulge in horse-trading. So, it will be a difficult negotiation for them. It will be an actual negotiation, not done with money," Haasan told ANI Chennai&nbsp;on Wednesday.

The party released its first list of 21 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. However, the list does not include Haasan`s name.

"The theme is a better Tamil Nadu. Though people will say that this is about choosing the Prime Minister, I have chosen Tamil Nadu and that will happen via Delhi because I think whoever becomes the Prime Minister, my prime concern is Tamil Nadu and it will always be so," he said.

Haasan said he does not compare Congress and BJP as they "both have their equal share of mistakes that they have done".

When asked about reports of various political parties promising the release of those involved in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Haasan said, "There is a place for law and there is a place for compassion. I think the law has done its part and now it's time for us to show compassion if we have any at all."

Tamil Nadu will go to polls on April 18, and counting of votes will be done on May 23.&nbsp;

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has said the leaders of his political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), will not indulge in horse-trading in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has said the leaders of his political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), will not indulge in horse-trading in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "The needle in the balance will be Makkal Needhi Maiam. We will not be sold, we won`t indulge in horse-trading. So, it will be a difficult negotiation for them. It will be an actual negotiation, not done with money," Haasan told ANI Chennai on Wednesday. The party released its first list of 21 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. However, the list does not include Haasan`s name. "The theme is a better Tamil Nadu. Though people will say that this is about choosing the Prime Minister, I have chosen Tamil Nadu and that will happen via Delhi because I think whoever becomes the Prime Minister, my prime concern is Tamil Nadu and it will always be so," he said. Haasan said he does not compare Congress and BJP as they "both have their equal share of mistakes that they have done". When asked about reports of various political parties promising the release of those involved in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Haasan said, "There is a place for law and there is a place for compassion. I think the law has done its part and now it's time for us to show compassion if we have any at all." Tamil Nadu will go to polls on April 18, and counting of votes will be done on May 23.

We will not be sold, we won't indulge in horse-trading: Kamal Haasan

Over 35,000 wheelchairs, 52,000 magnifying glasses, and 2213 sign language interpreters have been arranged in Karnataka for voters belonging to the persons with disabilities (PwD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

"Till February 28, we mapped 4,03,907 persons with disabilities (in the state) and are arranging whatever they require for assistance. We have arranged 35,739 wheelchairs, over 52,000 magnifying glasses, over 2213 sign language interpreters and over 31000 assistants," the state`s Chief Electoral Officer, Sanjiv Kumar, told ANI on Wednesday.

Besides this, Kumar said there will be a special queue for PwD voters.

"Sturdy ramps are being arranged in all 58,180 booths (in the state) and we are ensuring that they are all on ground floors. There will be a special queue for persons with disabilities and assistance of all kind will be provided," he added.

Karnataka will vote to elect its members of Parliament during the second and third phases of polling on April 18 and April 23, respectively.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Over 35,000 wheelchairs, 52,000 magnifying glasses, and 2213 sign language interpreters have been arranged in Karnataka for voters belonging to the persons with disabilities (PwD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Over 35,000 wheelchairs, 52,000 magnifying glasses, and 2213 sign language interpreters have been arranged in Karnataka for voters belonging to the persons with disabilities (PwD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. "Till February 28, we mapped 4,03,907 persons with disabilities (in the state) and are arranging whatever they require for assistance. We have arranged 35,739 wheelchairs, over 52,000 magnifying glasses, over 2213 sign language interpreters and over 31000 assistants," the state`s Chief Electoral Officer, Sanjiv Kumar, told ANI on Wednesday. Besides this, Kumar said there will be a special queue for PwD voters. "Sturdy ramps are being arranged in all 58,180 booths (in the state) and we are ensuring that they are all on ground floors. There will be a special queue for persons with disabilities and assistance of all kind will be provided," he added. Karnataka will vote to elect its members of Parliament during the second and third phases of polling on April 18 and April 23, respectively. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Over 35,000 wheelchairs, 52,000 magnifying glasses arranged for specially-abled voters

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards.

Tiwari, while conducting an election committee meeting in Asansol, West Bengal&nbsp;in presence of Sen, promised contracts worth Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 lakh to the party councillors depending on the number of votes polled in favour of the TMC LS candidate.&nbsp;

"If you are able to get a lead of more than 5,000 votes in your ward, I promise you to give contracts worth Rs 1 crore, if you manage to get a lead of 3,000 votes, you will get contracts worth Rs 50 lakh. If you manage a lead of 2,000 and 1,000 votes, you will be given contracts worth Rs 25 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively," he said.

The Asansol mayor also said if any councillor failed to ensure a lead of votes, he or she should resign from the post.

"If I fail to give a lead from my ward, I will also resign," he said.

Commenting on the statement, Union minister and BJP candidate from the seat Babul Supriyo said the remarks reflect the TMC culture and how the party conducts elections in the state.

"It shows their culture. I would urge the Election Commission to take note of it and take steps accordingly. It shows how TMC is trying to use money power in the elections," he said.

Senior TMC leader and state Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim, however, came to Tiwari's defence and said he was encouraging councillors to work hard in the elections.&nbsp;

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards.

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards. Tiwari, while conducting an election committee meeting in Asansol, West Bengal in presence of Sen, promised contracts worth Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 lakh to the party councillors depending on the number of votes polled in favour of the TMC LS candidate. "If you are able to get a lead of more than 5,000 votes in your ward, I promise you to give contracts worth Rs 1 crore, if you manage to get a lead of 3,000 votes, you will get contracts worth Rs 50 lakh. If you manage a lead of 2,000 and 1,000 votes, you will be given contracts worth Rs 25 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively," he said. The Asansol mayor also said if any councillor failed to ensure a lead of votes, he or she should resign from the post. "If I fail to give a lead from my ward, I will also resign," he said. Commenting on the statement, Union minister and BJP candidate from the seat Babul Supriyo said the remarks reflect the TMC culture and how the party conducts elections in the state. "It shows their culture. I would urge the Election Commission to take note of it and take steps accordingly. It shows how TMC is trying to use money power in the elections," he said. Senior TMC leader and state Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim, however, came to Tiwari's defence and said he was encouraging councillors to work hard in the elections.

Lok Sabha 2019: TMC MLA promises contracts if councillors ensure victory of party candidate

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-congress-releases-5th-list-fields-pranab-mukherjees-son-from-jangipur-204216">Congress </a>has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election.

With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11.

In Kerala, the Congress announced that Shanimol Usman will be the candidate from Alappuzha seat and Adoor Prakash from Attingal seat.

The Alappuzha seat is currently represented by AICC general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal, who has decided to opt out of the contest citing organisational work.

In Maharashtra, the party has fielded K C Padavi from Nandurbar, Kunal Rohidas Patil from Dhule, Charulata Khajasingh Tokas from Vardha, Manikrao G Thakarey from Yavatmal-Washim, Eknath Gaikwad from Mumbai-South Central, Bhausahib Kamble from Shirdi and Navinchandra Bandivadekar from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg.

The list was cleared late Tuesday night after a meeting of the party's Central Election Committee chaired by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. 
&nbsp;

The Congress has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election. With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11.

The Congress has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election. With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11. In Kerala, the Congress announced that Shanimol Usman will be the candidate from Alappuzha seat and Adoor Prakash from Attingal seat. The Alappuzha seat is currently represented by AICC general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal, who has decided to opt out of the contest citing organisational work. In Maharashtra, the party has fielded K C Padavi from Nandurbar, Kunal Rohidas Patil from Dhule, Charulata Khajasingh Tokas from Vardha, Manikrao G Thakarey from Yavatmal-Washim, Eknath Gaikwad from Mumbai-South Central, Bhausahib Kamble from Shirdi and Navinchandra Bandivadekar from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg. The list was cleared late Tuesday night after a meeting of the party's Central Election Committee chaired by Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress releases sixth list of candidates

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati won't contest Lok Sabha elections 2019

Lok Sabha elections 2019: A look at young chief ministers of India

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