The Supreme Court (SC) will not hear Arvind Kejriwal's request for a seven-day extension of his interim bail in a corruption case linked to the Delhi liquor policy.

The court last month granted interim bail to Kejriwal to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections and had asked him to surrender on June 2.

SC’s registrar, while rejecting the plea, said that the Delhi Chief Minister was given permission to move trial court for regular bail, and hence this petition is not maintainable.

The Delhi CM had sought an extension on medical grounds and requested the court for an urgent hearing today (May 29).

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi18O-PprKGAxX2xDgGHZP5CGYQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1nqp3wcPlmg8LyAVJDDCQc&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049" target="_blank">India Supreme Court grants interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister</a>

"In view of health complications, a medical examination is necessary to protect the Delhi CM from possible long-term harm during his prison term," advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is representing Arvind Kejriwal, said.

"There is no risk of fleeing the legal procedure and conditions set by Supreme Court have been followed," Singhvi further said.

<h2>Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes after arrest</h2>

The AAP also said that Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes following his arrest, adding his ketone level is high which could signal some disease.&nbsp;

Following his release from jail, the chief minister has been involved in campaigning for the INDIA bloc in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India. Polling was held in the capital Delhi on Saturday (May 25).

<h2>Interim bail conditions for Delhi CM</h2>

The Supreme Court imposed certain conditions while granting interim bail to Kejriwal. The court said he would not interact with any of the witnesses or have access to any official files connected to the excise policy case.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/take-care-of-your-country-arvind-kejriwal-shuts-down-pakistani-politicians-voting-shoutout-725312" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/take-care-of-your-country-arvind-kejriwal-shuts-down-pakistani-politicians-voting-shoutout-725312&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi18O-PprKGAxX2xDgGHZP5CGYQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xDPE3stgLSJJ9hWg_kfdn&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/take-care-of-your-country-arvind-kejriwal-shuts-down-pakistani-politicians-voting-shoutout-725312" target="_blank">'Take care of your country': Arvind&nbsp;Kejriwal&nbsp;shuts out Pakistan</a>

Kejriwal would not make any comment concerning his role in the case.

The apex court also said that the CM "shall be bound by the statement made on his behalf that he shall not sign official files unless it is required and necessary for obtaining clearance/ approval of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court (SC) will not hear Arvind Kejriwal's request for a seven-day extension of his interim bail in a corruption case linked to the Delhi liquor policy.

The Supreme Court (SC) will not hear Arvind Kejriwal's request for a seven-day extension of his interim bail in a corruption case linked to the Delhi liquor policy. The court last month granted interim bail to Kejriwal to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections and had asked him to surrender on June 2. SC’s registrar, while rejecting the plea, said that the Delhi Chief Minister was given permission to move trial court for regular bail, and hence this petition is not maintainable. The Delhi CM had sought an extension on medical grounds and requested the court for an urgent hearing today (May 29). Also read: India Supreme Court grants interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister "In view of health complications, a medical examination is necessary to protect the Delhi CM from possible long-term harm during his prison term," advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who is representing Arvind Kejriwal, said. "There is no risk of fleeing the legal procedure and conditions set by Supreme Court have been followed," Singhvi further said. Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes after arrest The AAP also said that Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes following his arrest, adding his ketone level is high which could signal some disease. Following his release from jail, the chief minister has been involved in campaigning for the INDIA bloc in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India. Polling was held in the capital Delhi on Saturday (May 25). Interim bail conditions for Delhi CM The Supreme Court imposed certain conditions while granting interim bail to Kejriwal. The court said he would not interact with any of the witnesses or have access to any official files connected to the excise policy case. Also read: 'Take care of your country': Arvind Kejriwal shuts out Pakistan Kejriwal would not make any comment concerning his role in the case. The apex court also said that the CM "shall be bound by the statement made on his behalf that he shall not sign official files unless it is required and necessary for obtaining clearance/ approval of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi." (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal's plea for extension of bail won't be heard by Supreme Court

Meghalaya Lok Sabha Elections 2024 date: The schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections is out. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in 7 phases with first phase&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;April 19. The last phase of voting is on June 1 and the counting will take place on&nbsp;June 4. In Meghalaya, the polling will be held in single phase, on April 19.&nbsp;

Meghalaya has two Lok Sabha constituencies and a 59-member legislative assembly. The National People's Party emerged victorious in the 2023 assembly elections.

<h2>When are the Lok Sabha elections in Meghalaya this year?</h2>

The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Meghalaya will be held on April 19, in the first phase.&nbsp;

<h2>List of Lok Sabha constituencies in Meghalaya</h2>

<ol>
	<li>Shillong</li>
	<li>Tura</li>
</ol>

<h2>List of candidates for Meghalaya Elections 2024&nbsp;</h2>

&nbsp;

<meta charset="utf-8" />

<table>
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			<td>
			Constituency
			</td>
			<td>
			Party
			</td>
			<td>
			Candidate
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
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			Shillong
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			Congress
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			Vincent H. Pala
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		<tr>
			<td>
			National People’s Party (NPP)
			</td>
			<td>
			Ampareen Lyngdoh
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			United Democratic Party (UDP)
			</td>
			<td>
			Robertjune Kharjahrin
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Voice of the People Party (VPP)
			</td>
			<td>
			Ricky AJ Syngkon
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td rowspan="3">
			Tura
			</td>
			<td>
			Congress
			</td>
			<td>
			Saleng A. Sangma
			</td>
		</tr>
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			National People’s Party (NPP)
			</td>
			<td>
			Agatha Sangma
			</td>
		</tr>
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			<td>
			Trinamool Congress (TMC)
			</td>
			<td>
			Zenith Sangma
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

The Bharatiya Janata Party announced its support for the Lok Sabha candidates of the National People's Party (NPP) in both the seats of Meghalaya.

<h2>2019 Lok Sabha polls in Meghalaya</h2>

In 2019, Congress’s Vincent H Pala won from the Shillong constituency. While National People's Party candidate Agatha K. Sangma won from Tura.

<h2>Lok Sabha elections 2024 complete schedule</h2>

On March 16, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar released the schedule for this year’s Lok Sabha elections. The voting will occur in 7 phases, commencing on April 19 and concluding on June 1. Phase 1 is set for April 19, followed by the second phase on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25, and the seventh on June 1. The results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be announced on June 4.

<h2>2019 Lok Sabha election results</h2>

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party emerged victorious with 303 seats out of 545, while the Congress secured only 52 seats.

Meghalaya Lok Sabha Elections 2024 date: The schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections is out. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in 7 phases with first phase beginning April 19.

Meghalaya Lok Sabha Elections 2024 date: The schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections is out. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in 7 phases with first phase beginning April 19. The last phase of voting is on June 1 and the counting will take place on June 4. In Meghalaya, the polling will be held in single phase, on April 19. Meghalaya has two Lok Sabha constituencies and a 59-member legislative assembly. The National People's Party emerged victorious in the 2023 assembly elections. When are the Lok Sabha elections in Meghalaya this year? The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Meghalaya will be held on April 19, in the first phase. List of Lok Sabha constituencies in Meghalaya Shillong Tura List of candidates for Meghalaya Elections 2024 Constituency Party Candidate Shillong Congress Vincent H. Pala National People’s Party (NPP) Ampareen Lyngdoh United Democratic Party (UDP) Robertjune Kharjahrin Voice of the People Party (VPP) Ricky AJ Syngkon Tura Congress Saleng A. Sangma National People’s Party (NPP) Agatha Sangma Trinamool Congress (TMC) Zenith Sangma The Bharatiya Janata Party announced its support for the Lok Sabha candidates of the National People's Party (NPP) in both the seats of Meghalaya. 2019 Lok Sabha polls in Meghalaya In 2019, Congress’s Vincent H Pala won from the Shillong constituency. While National People's Party candidate Agatha K. Sangma won from Tura. Lok Sabha elections 2024 complete schedule On March 16, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar released the schedule for this year’s Lok Sabha elections. The voting will occur in 7 phases, commencing on April 19 and concluding on June 1. Phase 1 is set for April 19, followed by the second phase on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25, and the seventh on June 1. The results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be announced on June 4. 2019 Lok Sabha election results In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party emerged victorious with 303 seats out of 545, while the Congress secured only 52 seats.

Meghalaya Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling dates, constituencies, candidates list and all you need to know

Sikkim Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Date: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in seven phases with phase one to be held on April 19.

The last phase of voting will take place on June 1 and the counting to declare the winner will be held&nbsp;on June 4.

In Sikkim, the polling is being held in a single phase, on April 19.&nbsp;

Sikkim has one Lok Sabha constituency and a 32-member legislative assembly. In the 2019 general election, Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM)’s Indra Hang Subba secured victory in the lone parliamentary seat.

<h2>When are the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 in Sikkim this year?</h2>

The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Sikkim will be held on April 19. Sikkim will also undergo assembly polls along with Lok Sabha polls on April 19.&nbsp;

<h2>List of Lok Sabha constituencies in Sikkim</h2>

<ol>
	<li>Sikkim</li>
</ol>

<h2>List of candidates for 2024 polls</h2>

The Indian National Congress (INC) has nominated Gopal Chettri to contest for the Sikkim Lok Sabha seat, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has names&nbsp;Dinesh Chandra Nepal, a former bureaucrat, as their candidate. Incumbent Indra Hang Subba is running as the candidate for the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha.

<h2>Top contenders for 2024 polls in Sikkim</h2>

In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the major contenders for the Sikkim seat are Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party.&nbsp;

<h2>Lok Sabha polls full schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced this year’s Lok Sabha election schedule on March 16, 2024. The polling will take place in 7 phases, starting on April 19 and ending on June 1. Phase 1 will be held on April 19, the second on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25, and the seventh on June 1. The Lok Sabha election 2024 results will be declared on June 4.

<h2>Who won Lok Sabha elections 2019?</h2>

The Bharatiya Janata Party won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with 303 seats out of 545. Meanwhile, the Congress could only secure 52 seats.

Sikkim Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Date: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in seven phases with phase one to be held on April 19.

Sikkim Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Date: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 2024 Lok Sabha election will be conducted in seven phases with phase one to be held on April 19. The last phase of voting will take place on June 1 and the counting to declare the winner will be held on June 4. In Sikkim, the polling is being held in a single phase, on April 19. Sikkim has one Lok Sabha constituency and a 32-member legislative assembly. In the 2019 general election, Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM)’s Indra Hang Subba secured victory in the lone parliamentary seat. When are the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 in Sikkim this year? The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Sikkim will be held on April 19. Sikkim will also undergo assembly polls along with Lok Sabha polls on April 19. List of Lok Sabha constituencies in Sikkim Sikkim List of candidates for 2024 polls The Indian National Congress (INC) has nominated Gopal Chettri to contest for the Sikkim Lok Sabha seat, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has names Dinesh Chandra Nepal, a former bureaucrat, as their candidate. Incumbent Indra Hang Subba is running as the candidate for the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha. Top contenders for 2024 polls in Sikkim In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the major contenders for the Sikkim seat are Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party. Lok Sabha polls full schedule Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced this year’s Lok Sabha election schedule on March 16, 2024. The polling will take place in 7 phases, starting on April 19 and ending on June 1. Phase 1 will be held on April 19, the second on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25, and the seventh on June 1. The Lok Sabha election 2024 results will be declared on June 4. Who won Lok Sabha elections 2019? The Bharatiya Janata Party won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with 303 seats out of 545. Meanwhile, the Congress could only secure 52 seats.

Sikkim Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Polling date, constituencies, candidates list and all you need to know

Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) elections in the Indian state of Goa are taking&nbsp;place during the third phase,&nbsp;which is on May 7.

Goa has two Lok Sabha seats – North Goa and South Goa – and given the small number of seats, elections will be held in a single phase in the state. The results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-704721">Delhi Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates and all you need to know</a>

<h2>When is the Goa Lok Sabha Election 2024?</h2>

The Lok Sabha elections in Goa will take place on May 7, during Phase 3 of the general elections.&nbsp;

<h2>Lok Sabha constituencies in Goa</h2>

Goa holds two Lok Sabha seats for North Goa and South Goa. Over the years, the state has seen competition between the two prominent national parties – the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC).&nbsp;

In 2014, the ruling BJP won both the seats in the state. However, in 2019, it won only one, while the other was taken over by the INC candidate.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arunachal-pradesh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-all-you-need-to-know-704464">Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates | All you need to know</a>

North Goa is currently being led by BJP’s Shripad Naik and South Goa by Francisco Sardinha (INC). In 2019, BJP’s Pramod Sawant became the chief minister of the state.

Notably, the state has also witnessed a rise in the popularity of regional parties like the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), the Goa Forward Party (GFP), and the Revolutionary Goans Party (RPG).&nbsp;

<h2>Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: List of Candidates and Constituencies</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>No.&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Constituency</td>
			<td>Candidate Name</td>
			<td>Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>North Goa</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Tukaram Bharat Parab</td>
			<td>Goans Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Milan R. Vaingankar</td>
			<td>Bahujan Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Ramakant Khalap</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Shripad Yesso Naik</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Sakharam Naik&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Adv. Vishal Naik</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>7</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Shakeel Jamal Shaikh</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Thomas Augustine Fernandes</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>South Goa</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Pallavi Shrinivas Dempo</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Rubert Pereira</td>
			<td>Revolutionary Goans Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Captain Viriato Fernandes</td>
			<td>Indian National 
			Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Dr. Sweta Gaonkar</td>
			<td>Bahujan Samaj 
			Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Harishchandra Sudhakar&nbsp;Naik</td>
			<td>Corruption&nbsp;Abolition Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Alexy Fernandes</td>
			<td>Independent&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>7</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Dr. Kalidas Vaingankar</td>
			<td>Independent&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Deepkumar D. Mapari</td>
			<td>Independent&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) elections in the Indian state of Goa are taking place during the third phase, which is on May 7.

Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) elections in the Indian state of Goa are taking place during the third phase, which is on May 7. Goa has two Lok Sabha seats – North Goa and South Goa – and given the small number of seats, elections will be held in a single phase in the state. The results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4. Also Read | Delhi Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates and all you need to know When is the Goa Lok Sabha Election 2024? The Lok Sabha elections in Goa will take place on May 7, during Phase 3 of the general elections. Lok Sabha constituencies in Goa Goa holds two Lok Sabha seats for North Goa and South Goa. Over the years, the state has seen competition between the two prominent national parties – the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC). In 2014, the ruling BJP won both the seats in the state. However, in 2019, it won only one, while the other was taken over by the INC candidate. Also Read | Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates | All you need to know North Goa is currently being led by BJP’s Shripad Naik and South Goa by Francisco Sardinha (INC). In 2019, BJP’s Pramod Sawant became the chief minister of the state. Notably, the state has also witnessed a rise in the popularity of regional parties like the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), the Goa Forward Party (GFP), and the Revolutionary Goans Party (RPG). Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: List of Candidates and Constituencies No. Constituency Candidate Name Party North Goa 1 Tukaram Bharat Parab Goans Party 2 Milan R. Vaingankar Bahujan Samaj Party 3 Ramakant Khalap Indian National Congress 4 Shripad Yesso Naik Bharatiya Janata Party 5 Sakharam Naik Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party 6 Adv. Vishal Naik Independent 7 Shakeel Jamal Shaikh Independent 8 Thomas Augustine Fernandes Independent South Goa 1 Pallavi Shrinivas Dempo Bharatiya Janata Party 2 Rubert Pereira Revolutionary Goans Party 3 Captain Viriato Fernandes Indian National Congress 4 Dr. Sweta Gaonkar Bahujan Samaj Party 5 Harishchandra Sudhakar Naik Corruption Abolition Party 6 Alexy Fernandes Independent 7 Dr. Kalidas Vaingankar Independent 8 Deepkumar D. Mapari Independent (With inputs from agencies)

Goa Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats. All you need to know

The Baramulla parliamentary constituency, which is one of the 49 seats up for grabs in the fifth round of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, saw an estimated 59% voter turnout,&nbsp;according to Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Election Officer, PK Pole.

"I want to congratulate the people that despite all the difficulties they came to vote in such huge numbers. This is a hilly area and some are snowbound areas and despite all this, they came to cast their votes and created history. Nowhere was the polling slow," said J&amp;K Chief Election Officer PK Pole.

In the general elections of 1984, there was the highest turnout in the Baramulla seat's forty-year existence, at 61.09 per cent.

At 8 pm, the Election Commission of India's voter turnout app indicated that 54.6% of voters had cast ballots in Baramulla. This is the greatest voter turnout in 35 years, dating back to 1989, when the seat had only 5% turnout. At 11.45 pm on Monday, the poll panel will give an updated number, followed by final statistics in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-5752-voter-turnout-recorded-till-500-pm-in-phase-5-highest-in-west-bengal-723646">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: 57.52% voter turnout recorded till 5:00 PM in phase 5, highest in West Bengal</a>

Other than Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri, Baramulla is one of the three constituencies in the Kashmir division of J&amp;K where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did not field any candidates. Assembly segments from the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Budgam make up this seat.

The leading candidates for the position are Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) leader Sajjad Lone and former chief minister of J&amp;K and leader of the National Conference (NC), Omar Abdullah. Candidates Fayaz Ahmad Mir of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Abdul Rashid Sheikh, also known as Engineer Rashid, are the other contenders.

On May 13, Srinagar cast its votes in the fourth round of voting, and on May 25, Anantnag-Rajouri will hold its sixth phase of voting. In Srinagar, the May 13 election saw a record 38 per cent of voters cast ballots. This was the constituency's highest voting percentage since 41% of voters cast ballots in the general elections of 1996. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Baramulla parliamentary constituency, which is one of the 49 seats up for grabs in the fifth round of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, saw an estimated 59% voter turnout, according to Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Election Officer, PK Pole.

The Baramulla parliamentary constituency, which is one of the 49 seats up for grabs in the fifth round of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, saw an estimated 59% voter turnout, according to Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Election Officer, PK Pole. "I want to congratulate the people that despite all the difficulties they came to vote in such huge numbers. This is a hilly area and some are snowbound areas and despite all this, they came to cast their votes and created history. Nowhere was the polling slow," said J&K Chief Election Officer PK Pole. In the general elections of 1984, there was the highest turnout in the Baramulla seat's forty-year existence, at 61.09 per cent. At 8 pm, the Election Commission of India's voter turnout app indicated that 54.6% of voters had cast ballots in Baramulla. This is the greatest voter turnout in 35 years, dating back to 1989, when the seat had only 5% turnout. At 11.45 pm on Monday, the poll panel will give an updated number, followed by final statistics in the coming days. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: 57.52% voter turnout recorded till 5:00 PM in phase 5, highest in West Bengal Other than Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri, Baramulla is one of the three constituencies in the Kashmir division of J&K where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did not field any candidates. Assembly segments from the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Budgam make up this seat. The leading candidates for the position are Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) leader Sajjad Lone and former chief minister of J&K and leader of the National Conference (NC), Omar Abdullah. Candidates Fayaz Ahmad Mir of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Abdul Rashid Sheikh, also known as Engineer Rashid, are the other contenders. On May 13, Srinagar cast its votes in the fourth round of voting, and on May 25, Anantnag-Rajouri will hold its sixth phase of voting. In Srinagar, the May 13 election saw a record 38 per cent of voters cast ballots. This was the constituency's highest voting percentage since 41% of voters cast ballots in the general elections of 1996. (With inputs from agencies)

Baramulla sees record voter turnout of 59% in Lok Sabha Elections 2024

Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court who is contesting Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket, was prohibited from campaigning for 24 hours on Tuesday by the Election Commission (EC) for making disparaging statements against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an election rally.

Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court who is contesting Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket, was prohibited from campaigning for 24 hours on Tuesday by the Election Commission (EC) for making disparaging statements against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an election rally. His remarks, according to the Election Commission of India, violate the Model Code of Conduct, hence the ban will be in place from Tuesday (May 21) at 50 pm until Wednesday at 5 pm. The Election Commission took action following a complaint from the Trinamool Congress on Gangopadhyay's statements made against Banerjee at a public gathering in Haldia on May 15. The poll panel's decision also came a day after Gangopadhyay, BJP candidate for Tamluk Lok Sabha seat, replied to the Election Commission's show-cause notice about his "undignified" statement directed at Banerjee. The survey panel considered the statements to be "improper, injudicious, and undignified," implying a breach of the Model Code of Conduct. Also read: Ranveer Singh reveals his 93-year-old ‘rockstar nana’ braved Mumbai heat to cast his vote "The Commission...finds Shri Abhijit Gangopadhyay's statement a direct affront on the "erosion of status of women in India"; such statement that is outrightly condemnable when used in respect of any woman, not to speak of a senior political leader and holder of a constitutional position," ECI said. “The Commission painfully notes that fact that such abominable words have come from someone of Shri Abhijit Gangopadhyay's educational and professional background and hence does not remotely deserve any benefit of doubt,” it added. What did Abhijit Gangopadhyay say? At a public assembly in Haldia on May 15, Gangopadhyay said in Bengali, "Mamata Banerjee, how much are you being sold for? Your rate is Rs10 lakh; why? Because you are having your makeup done by Keya Seth. Mamata Banerjee: is she even a woman? I keep wondering sometimes." How did BJP respond to Election Commission's 24-hour ban? In response, BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya stated that the Election Commission is conducting the election to guarantee that it is free, fair, and peaceful. “The poll panel has decided after feeling that Gangopadhyay’s comment was in bad taste and has hurt people’s sentiments. But the TMC has tried to misinterpret his comments. He is a dignified person and has fought for people’s rights,” he said.

EC censures BJP candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former HC judge, over undignified remarks on Mamata Banerjee

Lok Sabha Elections, Phase 5 Date, Schedule:&nbsp;Several states in India are voting in the fifth phase of India's general elections on Monday (May 20).&nbsp;The polling for Lok Sabha elections and some state elections&nbsp;started on April 19, the first of the seven-phase elections.&nbsp;

The elections will conclude on June 1 and counting of votes will be done on June 4.

The first phase of the polling covered 102 constituencies of 21 states and union territories (UTs). Ten states and UTs were fully covered, while 11 states and UTs were partially covered.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/medical-scare-hospital-staff-forgets-a-three-feet-long-cloth-inside-womans-vagina-722519">Medical scare! Hospital staff forgets a three-feet-long cloth inside woman's vagina</a>

The fifth phase is the smallest phase in terms of the number of constituencies for which voting is taking place, with voters scheduled to exercise their franchise only on 49 seats across six states and two Union territories.

A total of 695 candidates are in fray.

The states in the fifth phase are Maharashtra (13), Uttar Pradesh (14), West Bengal (7), Bihar (5), Jammu and Kashmir (1), Ladakh (1), Jharkhand (3) and Odisha (5).&nbsp;

<h2>Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Date: Phase 5 timing and schedule</h2>

The voting for the fifth phase of elections will start Monday (May 20) at 7:00 am IST and will end at 5 pm IST.

To find out the polling booth in your assembly area where you are supposed to vote, use the EPIC number present on the Voter ID Card.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-phase-1-voting-to-commence-on-april-19-heres-how-to-find-your-polling-booth-712556">Here</a> is a step-by-step process to find your polling station.

<h2>Lok Sabha Elections 2024: List of constituencies voting on May 20</h2>

<h3>Maharashtra: 13 Lok Sabha constituencies&nbsp;</h3>

Mumbai North, Mumbai North-West, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai South-Central, Mumbai South, Thane, Kalyan, Palghar, Dhule, Dindori, Nashik, Bhiwandi

<h3>Uttar Pradesh: 14 Lok Sabha constituencies</h3>

Lucknow, Amethi, Rae Bareli, Mohanlalganj, Jalaun, Jhansi, Hamirpur, Banda, Kaushambi, Fatehpur, Gonda, Barabanki, Faizabad, Kaiserganj

<h3>West Bengal: 7 Lok Sabha constituencies</h3>

Howrah, Hooghly, Arambagh, Bangaon, Barrackpur, Srerampur, Uluberia

<h3>Bihar: 5 Lok Sabha constituencies</h3>

Muzaffarpur, Madhubani, Hajipur, Sitamarhi, Saran

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swati-maliwal-claims-kerjiwals-aide-slapped-kicked-on-chest-and-pelvis-area-in-her-fir-722491">Swati Maliwal claims Kerjiwal's aide 'slapped, kicked on chest and pelvis area’ in her FIR</a>

<h3>Jammu and Kashmir (UT): 1 Lok Sabha constituency</h3>

Baramulla

<h3>Ladakh (UT): 1 Lok Sabha constituency</h3>

Ladakh

<h3>Jharkhand: 3 Lok Sabha constituencies</h3>

Chatra, Koderma, Hazaribagh

<h3>Odisha: 5 Lok sabha constituencies</h3>

Bargarh, Sundargarh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Aska

<h2>Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 5 key constituencies and candidates</h2>

All eyes will be on Uttar Pradesh in the fifth phase, as the bastions of Amethi and Rae Bareli will go into contest on May 20.

Both these Lok Sabha seats are synonymous with the Congress party's Gandhi family.

In 2019, Sonia Gandhi, who won her fifth consecutive election from Rae Bareli, was her party's lone MP from the country's most populous state.

Her son and then-Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, on the other hand, lost to Smriti Irani of the BJP.

<h2>Lok Sabha Election Phase 5 Key Candidates</h2>

Rahul Gandhi (Congress/INDIA): Rae Bareli

Dinesh Pratap Singh (BJP/NDA): Rae Bareli

Smriti Irani (BJP/NDA): Amethi

Kishori Lal Sharma (Congress/INDIA): Amethi

Rajnath Singh (BJP/NDA): Lucknow

Piyush Goyal (BJP/NDA): Mumbai North

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-sebi-recommends-multi-regulator-approach-for-cryptocurrencies-amid-rbi-opposition-722442">India's SEBI recommends multi-regulator approach for cryptocurrencies amid RBI opposition</a>

Chirag Paswan (LJP/NDA): Hajipur

Karan Bhushan Singh (BJP/NDA): Kaiserganj

Rajiv Pratap Rudy (BJP/NDA): Saran

Rohini Acharya (RJD/INDIA): Saran

Omar Abdullah (JKNC/INDIA): Baramulla

Arvind Sawant (SSUBT/INDIA): Mumbai South

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Lok Sabha Elections, Phase 5 Date, Schedule: Several states in India are voting in the fifth phase of India's general elections on Monday (May 20). The polling for Lok Sabha elections and some state elections started on April 19, the first of the seven-phase elections.

Lok Sabha Elections, Phase 5 Date, Schedule: Several states in India are voting in the fifth phase of India's general elections on Monday (May 20). The polling for Lok Sabha elections and some state elections started on April 19, the first of the seven-phase elections. The elections will conclude on June 1 and counting of votes will be done on June 4. The first phase of the polling covered 102 constituencies of 21 states and union territories (UTs). Ten states and UTs were fully covered, while 11 states and UTs were partially covered. Also Read | Medical scare! Hospital staff forgets a three-feet-long cloth inside woman's vagina The fifth phase is the smallest phase in terms of the number of constituencies for which voting is taking place, with voters scheduled to exercise their franchise only on 49 seats across six states and two Union territories. A total of 695 candidates are in fray. The states in the fifth phase are Maharashtra (13), Uttar Pradesh (14), West Bengal (7), Bihar (5), Jammu and Kashmir (1), Ladakh (1), Jharkhand (3) and Odisha (5). Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Date: Phase 5 timing and schedule The voting for the fifth phase of elections will start Monday (May 20) at 7:00 am IST and will end at 5 pm IST. To find out the polling booth in your assembly area where you are supposed to vote, use the EPIC number present on the Voter ID Card. Here is a step-by-step process to find your polling station. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: List of constituencies voting on May 20 Maharashtra: 13 Lok Sabha constituencies Mumbai North, Mumbai North-West, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai South-Central, Mumbai South, Thane, Kalyan, Palghar, Dhule, Dindori, Nashik, Bhiwandi Uttar Pradesh: 14 Lok Sabha constituencies Lucknow, Amethi, Rae Bareli, Mohanlalganj, Jalaun, Jhansi, Hamirpur, Banda, Kaushambi, Fatehpur, Gonda, Barabanki, Faizabad, Kaiserganj West Bengal: 7 Lok Sabha constituencies Howrah, Hooghly, Arambagh, Bangaon, Barrackpur, Srerampur, Uluberia Bihar: 5 Lok Sabha constituencies Muzaffarpur, Madhubani, Hajipur, Sitamarhi, Saran Also Read | Swati Maliwal claims Kerjiwal's aide 'slapped, kicked on chest and pelvis area’ in her FIR Jammu and Kashmir (UT): 1 Lok Sabha constituency Baramulla Ladakh (UT): 1 Lok Sabha constituency Ladakh Jharkhand: 3 Lok Sabha constituencies Chatra, Koderma, Hazaribagh Odisha: 5 Lok sabha constituencies Bargarh, Sundargarh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Aska Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase 5 key constituencies and candidates All eyes will be on Uttar Pradesh in the fifth phase, as the bastions of Amethi and Rae Bareli will go into contest on May 20. Both these Lok Sabha seats are synonymous with the Congress party's Gandhi family. In 2019, Sonia Gandhi, who won her fifth consecutive election from Rae Bareli, was her party's lone MP from the country's most populous state. Her son and then-Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, on the other hand, lost to Smriti Irani of the BJP. Lok Sabha Election Phase 5 Key Candidates Rahul Gandhi (Congress/INDIA): Rae Bareli Dinesh Pratap Singh (BJP/NDA): Rae Bareli Smriti Irani (BJP/NDA): Amethi Kishori Lal Sharma (Congress/INDIA): Amethi Rajnath Singh (BJP/NDA): Lucknow Piyush Goyal (BJP/NDA): Mumbai North Also Read | India's SEBI recommends multi-regulator approach for cryptocurrencies amid RBI opposition Chirag Paswan (LJP/NDA): Hajipur Karan Bhushan Singh (BJP/NDA): Kaiserganj Rajiv Pratap Rudy (BJP/NDA): Saran Rohini Acharya (RJD/INDIA): Saran Omar Abdullah (JKNC/INDIA): Baramulla Arvind Sawant (SSUBT/INDIA): Mumbai South (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Phase 5: Schedule, key candidates and constituencies voting on May 20

In Pics | Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and other Bollywood celebrities cast their vote

Actor and BJP leader Paresh Rawal has a unique solution for non-voters. The actor cast his vote on Monday (May 20) in Mumbai during the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024. After exercising his right during the fifth phase of the elections, the actor was seen speaking to the media and reiterating the importance of the vote.&nbsp; 
 
The&nbsp;former BJP parliamentarian had an interesting take on those who do not make the effort to step out of their homes to vote.&nbsp; 
 
"Aap kahoge sarkar yeh nahin karti, woh nahi karti aur agar aaj aap matdaan nahi karoge toh uske liye zimmedaar aap honge. Aur sarkaar zimmedaar nahi hai. (You may say the government doesn’t do this, it doesn’t do that, but if today you don’t vote, then you will be responsible for it. The government is not responsible," Rawal told the media.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal says, "...There should be some provisions for those who don't vote, like an increase in tax or some other punishment." <a href="https://t.co/sueN0F2vMD">pic.twitter.com/sueN0F2vMD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1792403662951886898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He continued, "Those who do not vote, there should be some action against them. Either increase their taxes. There should be some punishment or reaction for them."

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Bad politicians are not born … 
They are created… 
Created By the good people who go on a Picnic on a Voting Day !
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirPareshRawal/status/1777190024926171442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rawal was one of the many Bollywood stars who took to social media a few days back to appeal to everyone to come out and vote.&nbsp; 
 
"Bad politicians are not born. They are created... Created By the good people who go on a Picnic on a Voting Day!"

On Monday, several Bollywood stars were seen heading to polling booths across Mumbai to vote.

Actors Akshay Kumar, Farhan Akhtar, Manoj Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao, Janhvi Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and many others were seen exercising their rights.&nbsp;

Actor and BJP leader Paresh Rawal has a unique solution for non-voters. The actor cast his vote on Monday (May 20) in Mumbai during the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

Actor and BJP leader Paresh Rawal has a unique solution for non-voters. The actor cast his vote on Monday (May 20) in Mumbai during the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024. After exercising his right during the fifth phase of the elections, the actor was seen speaking to the media and reiterating the importance of the vote. The former BJP parliamentarian had an interesting take on those who do not make the effort to step out of their homes to vote. "Aap kahoge sarkar yeh nahin karti, woh nahi karti aur agar aaj aap matdaan nahi karoge toh uske liye zimmedaar aap honge. Aur sarkaar zimmedaar nahi hai. (You may say the government doesn’t do this, it doesn’t do that, but if today you don’t vote, then you will be responsible for it. The government is not responsible," Rawal told the media. #WATCH | Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal says, "...There should be some provisions for those who don't vote, like an increase in tax or some other punishment." pic.twitter.com/sueN0F2vMD — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2024 × He continued, "Those who do not vote, there should be some action against them. Either increase their taxes. There should be some punishment or reaction for them." Bad politicians are not born … They are created… Created By the good people who go on a Picnic on a Voting Day ! — Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) April 8, 2024 × Rawal was one of the many Bollywood stars who took to social media a few days back to appeal to everyone to come out and vote. "Bad politicians are not born. They are created... Created By the good people who go on a Picnic on a Voting Day!" On Monday, several Bollywood stars were seen heading to polling booths across Mumbai to vote. Actors Akshay Kumar, Farhan Akhtar, Manoj Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao, Janhvi Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and many others were seen exercising their rights.

Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Paresh Rawal has a unique solution for those who do not vote

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action.

He also alleged that PM Modi was supporting the "illegal" Mahayuti government in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

"We have not used bulldozers to date... The Election Commission should take action against those who make instigating speeches. The Prime Minister himself is doing it. He is provoking people. After our government comes, everything will be protected as per our Constitution, we will follow the Constitution," Kharge said during a media briefing in Mumbai.

He then claimed that the INDI alliance will win 46 out of the 48 seats in the state of Maharashtra and will defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"INDIA bloc will win 46 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. People are saying this themselves. Our alliance will win maximum seats and defeat BJP...," Kharge claimed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhis-emotional-appeal-to-people-of-raebareli-i-am-handing-over-my-son-to-you-722576">Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you'</a>

<h2>PM Modi hits out at Congress-SP combine</h2>

Kharge's remarks came after PM Modi, during his rally in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki, said that Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) would run bulldozer over Ayodhya's Ram Temple if they get elected in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

"If the Congress, SP and their INDIA partners come to power, our Ram Lalla would have to return to the tent again as they would run a bulldozer over the Ram Mandir. They should take lessons from Yogi-ji (Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath) on where to run bulldozers and where not to," PM Modi said on Friday (May 17).

"The Congress and the Samajwadi Party have become slaves to appeasement politics. And, when Modi uncovers the truth before the people, they accuse me of creating a Hindu-Muslim divide," he further said.

The Indian prime minister then exuded confidence that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was all set to register its third consecutive win and return to power again.

"June 4 (counting day) is not too far away now. All doubts will be cleared and the entire country and the world will know when we score a hat-trick of wins and return for a third term at the Centre."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action.

Congress president Malliakarjun Kharge on Saturday (May 18) lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing him of "provoking" people and called on the Election Commission to take stern action. He also alleged that PM Modi was supporting the "illegal" Mahayuti government in the Indian state of Maharashtra. "We have not used bulldozers to date... The Election Commission should take action against those who make instigating speeches. The Prime Minister himself is doing it. He is provoking people. After our government comes, everything will be protected as per our Constitution, we will follow the Constitution," Kharge said during a media briefing in Mumbai. He then claimed that the INDI alliance will win 46 out of the 48 seats in the state of Maharashtra and will defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "INDIA bloc will win 46 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. People are saying this themselves. Our alliance will win maximum seats and defeat BJP...," Kharge claimed. Also read: Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you' PM Modi hits out at Congress-SP combine Kharge's remarks came after PM Modi, during his rally in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki, said that Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) would run bulldozer over Ayodhya's Ram Temple if they get elected in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. "If the Congress, SP and their INDIA partners come to power, our Ram Lalla would have to return to the tent again as they would run a bulldozer over the Ram Mandir. They should take lessons from Yogi-ji (Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath) on where to run bulldozers and where not to," PM Modi said on Friday (May 17). "The Congress and the Samajwadi Party have become slaves to appeasement politics. And, when Modi uncovers the truth before the people, they accuse me of creating a Hindu-Muslim divide," he further said. The Indian prime minister then exuded confidence that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was all set to register its third consecutive win and return to power again. "June 4 (counting day) is not too far away now. All doubts will be cleared and the entire country and the world will know when we score a hat-trick of wins and return for a third term at the Centre." (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action

On Monday (13 May), 96 seats in nine states and one Union Territory (UT) voted in India's fourth round of the Lok Sabha elections. According to reports, some electors in Maharashtra's Pune, including the old and children, have claimed that they were unable to exercise their right to vote because their names were not on the voters' list.

On Monday (13 May), 96 seats in nine states and one Union Territory (UT) voted in India's fourth round of the Lok Sabha elections. According to reports, some electors in Maharashtra's Pune, including the old and children, have claimed that they were unable to exercise their right to vote because their names were not on the voters' list. Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik, Air Force chief Air Chief, claimed that the name of his wife Madhubala was removed from the voters' list. He informed PTI that he, his wife, and their son went to polling booth 26 on Sampling School Baner Road in Pune to cast their votes. He told PTI, “My 72-year-old wife’s name was found deleted from the voters’ list. When we brought this to the attention of the official there, he said that there was nothing he could do to help.” “We had the necessary slips given by the local corporator with us when we reached the polling centre. But it was of no use as my wife’s name was not there on the list,” he said. Other Pune voters have also voiced concerns along these lines. Reports of names being omitted from the electoral list have surfaced before, though. However, why is this taking place? What causes the name of a voter to disappear from the electoral list? Here are the reasons behind name missing and what you should do if your name is missing. Why isn't your name on the voters' list? According to the Indian Express report, between 23 January and 15 April this year, 2.39 lakh names were added and 17,749 voters were removed from the electoral records by Pune election officials. This followed an exercise in October by the district election administration to rationalise voting stations. According to Indian Express, election officers stated that this was necessary due to the maximum number of votes that one electronic voting machine (EVM) can register. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), a single EVM can hold up to 2,000 votes but is often certified to retain 1,500 votes. Also read: BJP's Madhavi Latha sparks row after her video of asking burqa-clad women to show face for ID check goes viral “Names have not been deleted. Instead, they might have been shifted from one booth to another. In case the voter is not able to find their names in the list – it would be advisable to check in the nearby booths. Deletion of names is an extreme exercise and is rarely done so,” an officer told Indian Express. Conditions for deleting names from voters' list The four conditions for deleting a name are death, a specific individual being missing, duplication, and transfers. If a voter's name appears twice or is not located during a door-to-door survey, the names are deleted. Before deleting names, a list of recommendations and complaints is saved for future reference. The purpose of this effort is to guarantee that every qualified voter may exercise their right and to sanitise the list. What can you do if your name is deleted from the voters' list? You cannot vote in this year's Lok Sabha Elections if your name has been deleted but you can fill Form 8 and immediately register for the Vidhan Sabha elections to be held later this year.

Lost in the polls: Excluded from the voters’ list? What to do when your name vanishes?

Swati Maliwal, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Commission for Women chairperson, on Monday (May 13) alleged that she was assaulted at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence by his close aide Bibhav Kumar, according to sources.

Maliwal made a PCR call at around 10 am from Delhi CM’s residence. Following the call, Delhi Police reached the Chief Minister’s residence, the sources informed.

"One PCR call at 9:34 AM has been received at PS Civil Lines from a lady saying she has been assaulted at CM House. After some time, MP Madam came to PS Civil Lines, however, she left stating she will give complaint later, said&nbsp;DCP (North) Manoj Meena.

<h2>Who is Bibhav Kumar?</h2>

Bibhav Kumar was Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s personnel secretary. He was recently in the news after the Delhi Vigilance Department sacked him from the position of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s personal secretary, citing illegal appointment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgZC__4mGAxVpUGcHHf-WCkoQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_8-9FV3Pytu2aLwZoA1IF&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049" target="_blank">India Supreme Court grants interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister</a>

Bibhav Kumar was sacked in connection to a 2007 case against him for ‘assault and use of criminal force to obstruct a public servant from doing his duty’.

While Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said, "This a shameful incident which has happened in the CM's residence. Arvind Kejriwal's residence has always been in the headlines for similar incidents. Swati Maliwal is known to raise issues of Delhi from time to time. I am sure she will not sit quietly in this matter and people will know what a disgusting person lives in the CM's residence."

<h2>BJP criticises AAP</h2>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya has accused&nbsp;Swati Maliwal of maintaining&nbsp;silence on party supremo Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest.&nbsp;

The BJP leader took to the microblogging site X and wrote, “AAP RS MP and former DCW chief Swati Maliwal alleges that Delhi CM’s PA assaulted her. Call made from Delhi CM’s House. Remember, Swati Maliwal had maintained radio silence on Kejriwal’s arrest. She was in fact not even in India at that time and didn’t return for a long time.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/elections/kejriwal-returns-what-it-means-for-general-elections-2024-1715499799923" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/elections/kejriwal-returns-what-it-means-for-general-elections-2024-1715499799923&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgZC__4mGAxVpUGcHHf-WCkoQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1NrJS4MPvIyTCxxaq4h3q4&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/elections/kejriwal-returns-what-it-means-for-general-elections-2024-1715499799923" target="_blank">Kejriwal&nbsp;Returns: What It Means For General Elections 2024</a>

India's Supreme Court on Friday (May 10) granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal till June 1.&nbsp;In its order, the SC further asked Kejriwal to surrender on&nbsp;June 2.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader was arrested and jailed in connection with the liquor excise policy case.&nbsp;

<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-files-response-in-sc-in-the-liquor-policy-case-calls-arrest-illegal-715693" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-files-response-in-sc-in-the-liquor-policy-case-calls-arrest-illegal-715693&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZgZC__4mGAxVpUGcHHf-WCkoQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3aXS1QrCP0EzQYHW6o9Wrh&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-files-response-in-sc-in-the-liquor-policy-case-calls-arrest-illegal-715693" target="_blank">Delhi CM Arvind&nbsp;Kejriwal&nbsp;files response in SC in liquor policy case</a>

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Commission for Women chairperson, on Monday (May 13) alleged that she was assaulted at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence by his close aide Bibhav Kumar, according to sources.

Swati Maliwal, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Commission for Women chairperson, on Monday (May 13) alleged that she was assaulted at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence by his close aide Bibhav Kumar, according to sources. Maliwal made a PCR call at around 10 am from Delhi CM’s residence. Following the call, Delhi Police reached the Chief Minister’s residence, the sources informed. "One PCR call at 9:34 AM has been received at PS Civil Lines from a lady saying she has been assaulted at CM House. After some time, MP Madam came to PS Civil Lines, however, she left stating she will give complaint later, said DCP (North) Manoj Meena. Who is Bibhav Kumar? Bibhav Kumar was Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s personnel secretary. He was recently in the news after the Delhi Vigilance Department sacked him from the position of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s personal secretary, citing illegal appointment. Also read: India Supreme Court grants interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Bibhav Kumar was sacked in connection to a 2007 case against him for ‘assault and use of criminal force to obstruct a public servant from doing his duty’. While Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva said, "This a shameful incident which has happened in the CM's residence. Arvind Kejriwal's residence has always been in the headlines for similar incidents. Swati Maliwal is known to raise issues of Delhi from time to time. I am sure she will not sit quietly in this matter and people will know what a disgusting person lives in the CM's residence." BJP criticises AAP Meanwhile, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya has accused Swati Maliwal of maintaining silence on party supremo Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest. The BJP leader took to the microblogging site X and wrote, “AAP RS MP and former DCW chief Swati Maliwal alleges that Delhi CM’s PA assaulted her. Call made from Delhi CM’s House. Remember, Swati Maliwal had maintained radio silence on Kejriwal’s arrest. She was in fact not even in India at that time and didn’t return for a long time.” Also read: Kejriwal Returns: What It Means For General Elections 2024 India's Supreme Court on Friday (May 10) granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal till June 1. In its order, the SC further asked Kejriwal to surrender on June 2. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader was arrested and jailed in connection with the liquor excise policy case. Arvind Kejriwal's arrest Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. Also read: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal files response in SC in liquor policy case The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies. (With inputs from agencies)

AAP MP Swati Maliwal alleges assault by Kejriwal's close aide at CM house

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Dushyant Chautala on Wednesday said that if Leader of Opposition BS Hooda takes steps to bring down the Nayab Saini government, his party would support the move.

The former deputy chief minister’s statement came a day after three Independent MLAs withdrew support to the Saini government.

The BJP government, which has the support of two other Independents is now two short of the majority mark in the 90-member House which has a current strength of 88.

“I want to tell Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda that going by the present numbers in the Assembly, if a step is taken that this government is brought down during (Lok Sabha) elections, then we will fully consider to support them in this,” Chautala told reporters in Hisar.

“Now, the Congress has to think whether they will take a step to bring down the BJP government,” he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://wionews.com/india-news/sam-pitroda-resigns-as-chairman-of-indian-overseas-congress-amid-controversy-over-racist-remark-719434">Sam Pitroda resigns as Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress amid controversy over racist remark</a>

Asked whether his party will support the Congress, he replied, “We are clear that steps should be taken to bring down the government”.

MLAs Sombir Sangwan (Dadri), Randhir Singh Gollen (Pundri) and Dharampal Gonder (Nilokheri) on Tuesday withdrew support to the BJP government and announced that they would back the Congress, reducing the Saini government to a minority in the state assembly.

The JJP had won 10 seats in the 2019 assembly polls while the BJP had bagged 40 seats. They had formed a coalition government in Haryana. However, the BJP snapped ties with the JJP two months ago.

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Dushyant Chautala on Wednesday said that if Leader of Opposition BS Hooda takes steps to bring down the Nayab Saini government, his party would support the move.

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Dushyant Chautala on Wednesday said that if Leader of Opposition BS Hooda takes steps to bring down the Nayab Saini government, his party would support the move. The former deputy chief minister’s statement came a day after three Independent MLAs withdrew support to the Saini government. The BJP government, which has the support of two other Independents is now two short of the majority mark in the 90-member House which has a current strength of 88. “I want to tell Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda that going by the present numbers in the Assembly, if a step is taken that this government is brought down during (Lok Sabha) elections, then we will fully consider to support them in this,” Chautala told reporters in Hisar. “Now, the Congress has to think whether they will take a step to bring down the BJP government,” he said. Also read: Sam Pitroda resigns as Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress amid controversy over racist remark Asked whether his party will support the Congress, he replied, “We are clear that steps should be taken to bring down the government”. MLAs Sombir Sangwan (Dadri), Randhir Singh Gollen (Pundri) and Dharampal Gonder (Nilokheri) on Tuesday withdrew support to the BJP government and announced that they would back the Congress, reducing the Saini government to a minority in the state assembly. The JJP had won 10 seats in the 2019 assembly polls while the BJP had bagged 40 seats. They had formed a coalition government in Haryana. However, the BJP snapped ties with the JJP two months ago.

If Congress takes steps to bring down Saini govt, we will support move: Dushyant Chautala

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) detained Sanjiv Lal, personal secretary of Jharkhand rural development minister Alamgir Alam, and his domestic help on Tuesday (May 7) after finding over ₹35 crore ($4mn) in cash following a raid conducted in conjunction with a money laundering case.

After being questioned all night about the cash and its beneficiaries, the two were taken into custody under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

On Monday, the ED conducted raids at several locations in Ranchi,&nbsp;a 2BHK apartment allegedly used by Lal's domestic help Jehangir. It claimed to have found cash worth ₹32 crore ($3.8mn) and ₹3 crore ($0.12mn) at different locations.&nbsp;Eight counting machines and bank personnel were deployed to count the cash, all in the denomination of ₹500.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jharkhand: Huge amount of cash recovered from household help of Sanjiv Lal - PS to Jharkhand Rural Development minister Alamgir Alam - in ED raids at multiple locations in Ranchi in Virendra Ram case. 
 
ED arrested Virendra K. Ram, the chief engineer at the Jharkhand… <a href="https://t.co/1yoBFRvaLa">pic.twitter.com/1yoBFRvaLa</a>
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A former chief engineer of the Jharkhand rural development department, Virendra Ram, was arrested in February 2023 on suspicion of amassing wealth of over ₹100 crore ($11.97mn). ED informed a Ranchi court that a portion of the commission he allegedly earned was given to prominent bureaucrats and politicians.

“Ram played a pivotal role in managing tenders and allocation of work to private entities and the percentage of commission is distributed in a mechanised manner to higher-ups of government, including highly placed bureaucrats and politicians. Further, during [the] investigation, names of senior bureaucrats and politicians have emerged which is being investigated by ED,” the agency said in its remand note in February 2023.

Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidiTNS85TyrbOo" /><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-ed-recovers-huge-amount-of-cash-linked-to-virendra-ram-case-in-jharkhand-718377" target="_blank">Watch: Nearly $3mn found at home of domestic help linked to Jharkhand minister</a>

Pratul Shahdeo, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Jharkhand spokesperson, had said on Monday, “Earlier ₹350 ($41.9mn) crore was recovered from Congress’s Rajya Sabha member Dheeraj Sahay, ₹20 crore ($2.39mn) from the mines secretary. Now recovery of ₹25 crore ($2.99mn) has been made from the servant of the minister’s OSD [officer on special duty]. It is a matter of probing from where the servant, who hardly gets ₹30000 monthly, got such a huge amount. I think it was black money kept to spend during the election.”

Alam has refuted any wrongdoing. He said that Lal, a government employee, had served as secretary to two former&nbsp;ministers&nbsp;also. “There are several government employees and we usually appoint personal secretaries based on experience. It is not right to comment on the raids before ED’s investigation is completed,” he added. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) detained Sanjiv Lal, personal secretary of Jharkhand rural development minister Alamgir Alam, and his domestic help on Tuesday (May 7) after finding over ₹35 crore ($4mn) in cash following a raid conducted in conjunction with a money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) detained Sanjiv Lal, personal secretary of Jharkhand rural development minister Alamgir Alam, and his domestic help on Tuesday (May 7) after finding over ₹35 crore ($4mn) in cash following a raid conducted in conjunction with a money laundering case. After being questioned all night about the cash and its beneficiaries, the two were taken into custody under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. On Monday, the ED conducted raids at several locations in Ranchi, a 2BHK apartment allegedly used by Lal's domestic help Jehangir. It claimed to have found cash worth ₹32 crore ($3.8mn) and ₹3 crore ($0.12mn) at different locations. Eight counting machines and bank personnel were deployed to count the cash, all in the denomination of ₹500. #WATCH | Jharkhand: Huge amount of cash recovered from household help of Sanjiv Lal - PS to Jharkhand Rural Development minister Alamgir Alam - in ED raids at multiple locations in Ranchi in Virendra Ram case. ED arrested Virendra K. Ram, the chief engineer at the Jharkhand… pic.twitter.com/1yoBFRvaLa — ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2024 × A former chief engineer of the Jharkhand rural development department, Virendra Ram, was arrested in February 2023 on suspicion of amassing wealth of over ₹100 crore ($11.97mn). ED informed a Ranchi court that a portion of the commission he allegedly earned was given to prominent bureaucrats and politicians. “Ram played a pivotal role in managing tenders and allocation of work to private entities and the percentage of commission is distributed in a mechanised manner to higher-ups of government, including highly placed bureaucrats and politicians. Further, during [the] investigation, names of senior bureaucrats and politicians have emerged which is being investigated by ED,” the agency said in its remand note in February 2023. Also read: Watch: Nearly $3mn found at home of domestic help linked to Jharkhand minister Pratul Shahdeo, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Jharkhand spokesperson, had said on Monday, “Earlier ₹350 ($41.9mn) crore was recovered from Congress’s Rajya Sabha member Dheeraj Sahay, ₹20 crore ($2.39mn) from the mines secretary. Now recovery of ₹25 crore ($2.99mn) has been made from the servant of the minister’s OSD [officer on special duty]. It is a matter of probing from where the servant, who hardly gets ₹30000 monthly, got such a huge amount. I think it was black money kept to spend during the election.” Alam has refuted any wrongdoing. He said that Lal, a government employee, had served as secretary to two former ministers also. “There are several government employees and we usually appoint personal secretaries based on experience. It is not right to comment on the raids before ED’s investigation is completed,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ED detains Jharkhand minister Alamgir Alam's aide and helper after $4mn found in raids

Rahul Gandhi Rae Bareli Lok Sabha Seat:&nbsp;The suspense over nominations in two Congress strongholds in north India—Amethi and Rae Bareli— has finally ended.

<h2>Rahul Gandhi Nomination for Lok Sabha</h2>

Surprisingly, Rahul Gandhi has been announced as the party candidate from Rae Bareli, the seat vacated by his mother Sonia Gandhi when she moved to Rajya Sabha.

Meanwhile, in Amethi, Kishori Lal Sharma will be contesting on the seat which has been a family bastion for the Gandhis.

Both candidates will file their papers today, the last day for filing nominations for the fifth phase of the election on May 20.

The Congress decision was announced on Friday (May 3) after weeks of suspense.

<blockquote>
Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whats-stopping-rahul-gandhi-from-entering-the-fray-in-amethi-and-raebareli-717114" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whats-stopping-rahul-gandhi-from-entering-the-fray-in-amethi-and-raebareli-717114&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibmsSPzfCFAxWy4jgGHb9YAawQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw02tzme8C21hM2nkgj4MaDa&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whats-stopping-rahul-gandhi-from-entering-the-fray-in-amethi-and-raebareli-717114&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibmsSPzfCFAxWy4jgGHb9YAawQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw02tzme8C21hM2nkgj4MaDa&amp;arm=e" target="_blank">What's stopping&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;from entering the fray in Amethi</a>
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Talking to reporters Congress worker Yogendra Yadav said KL Sharma is a part of the Gandhi family. "There is no disappointment. We will definitely win from Amethi. Sharma is also a part of the Gandhi family now. He has worked for the Gandhi family in Amethi for 30 to 35 years," he said.

<h2>KL Sharma from Amethi</h2>

Congress loyalist KL Sharma will face Smriti Irani in Amethi in the elections. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi's opponent would be Dinesh Pratap Singh, who was announced as the BJP's pick from Raebareli on Thursday. Dinesh Singh lost the 2019 Lok Sabha polls to former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway at Raebareli for Rahul Gandhi's roadshow and filing of nominations. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge will also go to Raebareli today

<h2>Significance of Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat</h2>

Former Congress chief and&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;mother, Sonia&nbsp;Gandhi&nbsp;represented Rae Bareli for several terms&nbsp;but&nbsp;now&nbsp;the seat has been vacated as Sonia was nominated&nbsp;to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha.

Earlier, there were speculations that&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;sister and Congress General&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi&nbsp;Vadra&nbsp;might be fielded&nbsp;from the Rae Bareli seat.

Both seats will go to polls in the fifth phase of the elections, due&nbsp;on&nbsp;May 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi Rae Bareli Lok Sabha Seat: The suspense over nominations in two Congress strongholds in north India—Amethi and Rae Bareli— has finally ended. Rahul Gandhi Nomination for Lok Sabha Surprisingly, Rahul Gandhi has been announced as the party candidate from Rae Bareli, the seat vacated by his mother Sonia Gandhi when she moved to Rajya Sabha.

Rahul Gandhi Rae Bareli Lok Sabha Seat: The suspense over nominations in two Congress strongholds in north India—Amethi and Rae Bareli— has finally ended. Rahul Gandhi Nomination for Lok Sabha Surprisingly, Rahul Gandhi has been announced as the party candidate from Rae Bareli, the seat vacated by his mother Sonia Gandhi when she moved to Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, in Amethi, Kishori Lal Sharma will be contesting on the seat which has been a family bastion for the Gandhis. Both candidates will file their papers today, the last day for filing nominations for the fifth phase of the election on May 20. The Congress decision was announced on Friday (May 3) after weeks of suspense. Also read: What's stopping Rahul Gandhi from entering the fray in Amethi Talking to reporters Congress worker Yogendra Yadav said KL Sharma is a part of the Gandhi family. "There is no disappointment. We will definitely win from Amethi. Sharma is also a part of the Gandhi family now. He has worked for the Gandhi family in Amethi for 30 to 35 years," he said. KL Sharma from Amethi Congress loyalist KL Sharma will face Smriti Irani in Amethi in the elections. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi's opponent would be Dinesh Pratap Singh, who was announced as the BJP's pick from Raebareli on Thursday. Dinesh Singh lost the 2019 Lok Sabha polls to former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi. Meanwhile, preparations are underway at Raebareli for Rahul Gandhi's roadshow and filing of nominations. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge will also go to Raebareli today Significance of Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat Former Congress chief and Rahul’s mother, Sonia Gandhi represented Rae Bareli for several terms but now the seat has been vacated as Sonia was nominated to the upper house of the Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha. Earlier, there were speculations that Rahul’s sister and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra might be fielded from the Rae Bareli seat. Both seats will go to polls in the fifth phase of the elections, due on May 20. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi to contest Lok Sabha polls from Rae Bareli, KL Sharma from Amethi

Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today filed his nomination papers for the North Kashmir's Baramulla constituency.&nbsp;Abdullah is one of the top contenders from the Baramulla Constituency as he will be in direct fight with People's Conference Leader Sajad Gani Lone.&nbsp;

Omar was accompanied by his supporters from his Srinagar residence till Baramulla in North Kashmir where he submitted his papers.

While addressing his workers, Omar took a dig at BJP and election commission saying if they see the number of people accompanying me here, they might delay the elections in Baramulla too. &nbsp;Election Commision delayed the Anantnag election date from May 7 to May 25th.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lok-sabha-elections-updates-live-repolling-begins-at-jaipurs-ajmer-booth-717213">Lok Sabha elections 2024 LIVE: PM Modi says Congress is a 'wrong delivery party'</a>

'' We left Srinagar in a couple of vehicles but reached here in a huge rally. And seeing such a huge enthusiasm, I won’t be surprised if they postpone the elections in Baramulla like anantnag. But whenever the elections are held we will be victorious. Voters have to decide on 20th May whether they want to send their candidate to Delhi or get Delhi’s proxy to Baramulla. My fight is not against an individual or a party but against the government in Delhi and RSS of Nagpur who want to defeat the India Alliance, '' said Omar Abdullah.

''This rally is just the trailer and the whole picture will be shown on the day of the voting. I am contesting parliament after 20 years, any election after 10 years and have been in politics for 25 years but I have never seen enthusiasm like this.'' he added.&nbsp;

The race for the Baramulla is mainly between two candidates, Omar Abdullah and Sajad Lone. While Omar Abdullah is a part of the INDIA alliance, they have alleged that Sajad Lone will be supported by parties like Apni Party and BJP as they have not filed any candidates from the said constituency.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whats-stopping-rahul-gandhi-from-entering-the-fray-in-amethi-and-raebareli-717114">What’s&nbsp;stopping Rahul Gandhi from entering the fray in Amethi and Rae Bareli?</a>

Sajad Lone filed his nomination papers and kept it very simple as North kashmir was hit by flash floods last week. In the 2019 elections, National Conference's Mohammad Akbar Lone won the Parliamentary elections from the Baramulla Seat. Mohammad Akbar Lone from the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) won this seat by 1,33,426 votes whereas Raja Aijaz Ali from the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) headed by Sajad Lone came second with 1,03,193 votes.

''This is the first election after 2019, It's one of the most important elections. The people of Kashmir deserve that they be represented by a new voice, by a different voice. And even the people of India deserve to know what exactly is happening here. Out of the Last ten parliamentary elections,nine times only one party has won. I promise the voices of people from North Kashmir will resonate across the Parliament, '' said Sajad Lone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-congress-leader-adhir-ranjan-chowdhury-says-better-to-vote-for-bjp-than-tmc-717099">WATCH: Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says ‘better to vote for BJP than TMC’</a>

Baramulla has over 17.28 lac voters registered with 8.7 lac males and 8.5 lac females. There are 33 transgenders registered as well. So far around 10 candidates have filed nominations and few more are expected in the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today filed his nomination papers for the North Kashmir's Baramulla constituency. Abdullah is one of the top contenders from the Baramulla Constituency as he will be in direct fight with People's Conference Leader Sajad Gani Lone.

Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today filed his nomination papers for the North Kashmir's Baramulla constituency. Abdullah is one of the top contenders from the Baramulla Constituency as he will be in direct fight with People's Conference Leader Sajad Gani Lone. Omar was accompanied by his supporters from his Srinagar residence till Baramulla in North Kashmir where he submitted his papers. While addressing his workers, Omar took a dig at BJP and election commission saying if they see the number of people accompanying me here, they might delay the elections in Baramulla too. Election Commision delayed the Anantnag election date from May 7 to May 25th. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024 LIVE: PM Modi says Congress is a 'wrong delivery party' '' We left Srinagar in a couple of vehicles but reached here in a huge rally. And seeing such a huge enthusiasm, I won’t be surprised if they postpone the elections in Baramulla like anantnag. But whenever the elections are held we will be victorious. Voters have to decide on 20th May whether they want to send their candidate to Delhi or get Delhi’s proxy to Baramulla. My fight is not against an individual or a party but against the government in Delhi and RSS of Nagpur who want to defeat the India Alliance, '' said Omar Abdullah. ''This rally is just the trailer and the whole picture will be shown on the day of the voting. I am contesting parliament after 20 years, any election after 10 years and have been in politics for 25 years but I have never seen enthusiasm like this.'' he added. The race for the Baramulla is mainly between two candidates, Omar Abdullah and Sajad Lone. While Omar Abdullah is a part of the INDIA alliance, they have alleged that Sajad Lone will be supported by parties like Apni Party and BJP as they have not filed any candidates from the said constituency. Also read: What’s stopping Rahul Gandhi from entering the fray in Amethi and Rae Bareli? Sajad Lone filed his nomination papers and kept it very simple as North kashmir was hit by flash floods last week. In the 2019 elections, National Conference's Mohammad Akbar Lone won the Parliamentary elections from the Baramulla Seat. Mohammad Akbar Lone from the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) won this seat by 1,33,426 votes whereas Raja Aijaz Ali from the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) headed by Sajad Lone came second with 1,03,193 votes. ''This is the first election after 2019, It's one of the most important elections. The people of Kashmir deserve that they be represented by a new voice, by a different voice. And even the people of India deserve to know what exactly is happening here. Out of the Last ten parliamentary elections,nine times only one party has won. I promise the voices of people from North Kashmir will resonate across the Parliament, '' said Sajad Lone. WATCH: Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury says ‘better to vote for BJP than TMC’ Baramulla has over 17.28 lac voters registered with 8.7 lac males and 8.5 lac females. There are 33 transgenders registered as well. So far around 10 candidates have filed nominations and few more are expected in the next 24 hours.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Omar Abdullah files nomination papers from Baramulla

Popular Indian TV actress Rupali Ganguly joined the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (May 1). Ganguly, who plays the lead in the hit primetime daily Anupama, addressed the press as she officially joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday morning. Notably, India is in the middle of its general elections. 
 
While speaking to&nbsp;the press, Ganguly said, "When I see this 'Mahayagya' of development, I feel that I should also take part in this. I need your blessings and support so that whatever I do, I do it right and good."&nbsp; 
 
Rupali was joined by political leaders Vinod Tawde and Anil Baluni at the press conference. 
 
Ganguly, who gained fame playing Monisha in the cult comedy series Sarabhai vs Sarabhai,&nbsp;met PM Narendra Modi earlier in March. Rupali took to her Instagram account and revealed she met the Prime Minister. She said she experienced a mix of nervousness and excitement.

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She says, "...When I see this 'Mahayagya' of development, I feel that I should also take part in this...I need your blessings and support so that whatever I do, I do it right and good...'' <a href="https://t.co/x7pT7oq0xB">pic.twitter.com/x7pT7oq0xB</a>
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“A day I will not stop reliving in my mind and feel euphoric about! It was the day my dream came true…that of meeting our Honourable PM Shri Narendra Modiji @narendramodi. It was indeed a fan-girl moment! For 14 years I probably manifested the hour and more that I got to share the stage with him on such a huge platform that he has created for the remarkable digital content creators which shall not only be most coveted in the future but also an award that endorses Modijis vision of a digitally global India @mygovindia,” she said on Instagram. 
 
“Shri Modi Ji’s name fills the heart of every Indian with pride and standing beside him, I couldn’t be prouder.

What more could anyone ask for than to share moments with the man who has changed the position of our country in the global economy and made every Indian stand tall with pride on every soil we step foot on. A huge thank you and a huge round of applause to the fantastic team of Content Creators awards who pulled off this huge event in the minimum possible time and kudos to my fellow eminent Jury members @prasoonjoshilive … it was wonderful associating with the gentlemen. I’m a proud Modi Bhakt forever and this one shall be my most cherished #fanmoment,” Rupali added. 
 
It is unclear if Ganguly will be contesting elections in the Lok Sabha Poll 2024 or if she will be a star campaigner for the party in some of its key areas.&nbsp; 
 
Rupali joined the league of Kangana Ranaut, Arun Govil and more, who joined the BJP this year. 
&nbsp;

Popular Indian TV actress Rupali Ganguly joined the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (May 1). Ganguly, who plays the lead in the hit primetime daily Anupama, addressed the press as she officially joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday morning.

Popular Indian TV actress Rupali Ganguly joined the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (May 1). Ganguly, who plays the lead in the hit primetime daily Anupama, addressed the press as she officially joined the BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday morning. Notably, India is in the middle of its general elections. While speaking to the press, Ganguly said, "When I see this 'Mahayagya' of development, I feel that I should also take part in this. I need your blessings and support so that whatever I do, I do it right and good." Rupali was joined by political leaders Vinod Tawde and Anil Baluni at the press conference. Ganguly, who gained fame playing Monisha in the cult comedy series Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, met PM Narendra Modi earlier in March. Rupali took to her Instagram account and revealed she met the Prime Minister. She said she experienced a mix of nervousness and excitement. #WATCH | Actress Rupali Ganguly joins BJP at the party headquarters in Delhi She says, "...When I see this 'Mahayagya' of development, I feel that I should also take part in this...I need your blessings and support so that whatever I do, I do it right and good...'' pic.twitter.com/x7pT7oq0xB — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2024 × #WATCH | Actress Rupali Ganguly joins BJP at the party headquarters in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/CjRafwFd3W — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2024 × “A day I will not stop reliving in my mind and feel euphoric about! It was the day my dream came true…that of meeting our Honourable PM Shri Narendra Modiji @narendramodi. It was indeed a fan-girl moment! For 14 years I probably manifested the hour and more that I got to share the stage with him on such a huge platform that he has created for the remarkable digital content creators which shall not only be most coveted in the future but also an award that endorses Modijis vision of a digitally global India @mygovindia,” she said on Instagram. “Shri Modi Ji’s name fills the heart of every Indian with pride and standing beside him, I couldn’t be prouder. What more could anyone ask for than to share moments with the man who has changed the position of our country in the global economy and made every Indian stand tall with pride on every soil we step foot on. A huge thank you and a huge round of applause to the fantastic team of Content Creators awards who pulled off this huge event in the minimum possible time and kudos to my fellow eminent Jury members @prasoonjoshilive … it was wonderful associating with the gentlemen. I’m a proud Modi Bhakt forever and this one shall be my most cherished #fanmoment,” Rupali added. It is unclear if Ganguly will be contesting elections in the Lok Sabha Poll 2024 or if she will be a star campaigner for the party in some of its key areas. Rupali joined the league of Kangana Ranaut, Arun Govil and more, who joined the BJP this year.

Anupama star Rupali Ganguly joins BJP: 'Need your blessings'

India has the largest number of eligible voters in the world, yet more than 100 million people do not bother to cast their votes. Why is this such a big issue in India? And how does this affect governance? Our next report looks to find out

Is low voter turnout hurting India's growth

In the second phase of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, 89 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories are voting on Friday (April 26). However, parts of some states might face a heatwave, affecting voter turnout.

In the second phase of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, 89 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories are voting on Friday (April 26). However, parts of some states might face a heatwave, affecting voter turnout. During the first phase, 102 Lok Sabha seats across 21 states and Union Territories votes on April 19. A dip of 4.4 per cent was recorded in these seats, as the voter turnout was 65.5 per cent this year, down from 69.9 per cent in general elections 2019. The extreme heat is being speculated to be the reason behind the decline in voter count. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Constituencies Going To Polls In Second Phase Here's the list of Lok Sabha constituencies that will vote in the second phase of the general elections 2024: Assam: Karimganj, Silchar, Mangaldoi, Nawgong, Kaliabor Bihar: Kishanganj, Katihar, Purnea, Bhagalpur Chhattisgarh: Rajnandgaon, Mahasamund, Kanker Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu Karnataka: Udupi Chikamagalur, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, Chitradurga, Tumkur, Mandya, Mysore, Chamarajanagar, Bangalore Rural, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South, Chikballapur, Kolar Kerala: Kasaragod, Kannur, Vatakara, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Ponnani, Palakkad, Alathur, Thrissur, Chalakudy, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Mavelikkara, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, Attingal, Thiruvananthapuram Manipur: Outer Manipur Madhya Pradesh: Tikamgarh, Damoh, Khajuraho, Satna, Rewa, Narmadapuram, Betul Maharashtra: Buldhana, Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Yavatmal Washim, Hingoli, Nanded, Parbhani Rajasthan: Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, Ajmer, Pali, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jalore, Udaipur, Banswara, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Kota, Jhalawar-Baran Tripura: Tripura East Uttar Pradesh: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Mathura West Bengal: Darjeeling, Raiganj, Balurghat ALSO READ | 'Four more years, pause': Biden reads instructions from teleprompter in latest speech gaffe Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 2: Will heatwave affect voter turnout? IMD has issued a heatwave warning for parts of four states going to polls in the second phase - West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Konkan, Goa, Coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, and Mahe will have hot and humid temperatures. IMD states, "Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions likely to prevail in some pockets over Gangetic West Bengal and in isolated pockets over Odisha; heatwave conditions in isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Rayalaseema, Telangana and interior Karnataka." Dr Naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD, told NDTV that the weather office issued a red alert for West Bengal for the next three days. "Temperatures in Bihar will exceed 40 degrees Celsius. A heatwave is expected in eastern Uttar Pradesh after 24 hours and in western Uttar Pradesh after two days. The temperature will remain hot and humid in Kerala too," he said. As per the IMD, Gujarat, central Maharashtra, and north Karnataka are the most vulnerable to heatwaves, followed by Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. On Monday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) formed a task force consisting of officials from the IMD, the poll body, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to assess the impact of heatwave and humidity five days before each phase of polling. According to a press release by the ECI, the poll body has asked the health ministry to issue "necessary instructions to health authorities in states to prepare for and extend assistance in case of heatwave conditions affecting election operations." (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase

A 102-year-old man showed up at a polling booth in Jammu to vote in the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;

Haji Karam Din, holding a walking stick, entered the polling station in the Reasi district of the Jammu constituency, accompanied by a family member who assisted him with the pre-voting process.

After casting his vote, the centenarian showed his inked finger and posed for photos outside the polling booth.

"I am very happy to vote at this polling station at this age. I have voted every time. This journey is continuing even today at the age of 102," he told news agency PTI.

Reasi district is part of the Jammu parliamentary constituency with more than 17.81 lakh electors eligible to cast their vote to decide the fate of 22 candidates.

Current BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma is aiming for a third consecutive term after winning in the 2014 and 2019 elections. His main competitor is Raman Bhalla, a Congress candidate and former minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/78-year-old-woman-hospitalised-for-low-oxygen-levels-votes-while-on-stretcher-715248">78-year-old woman hospitalised for low oxygen levels votes while on stretcher</a>

Voting began in the Jammu-Reasi Lok Sabha constituency with enthusiastic turnout, as some voters arrived at the polling stations dressed in traditional Dogra attire.&nbsp;

Polling commenced at 7 am across 2,416 polling stations in the constituency, with 10.39 per cent&nbsp;of votes cast by 9 am. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jammu had a voter turnout of 74 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-phase-2-voting-mallikarjun-kharge-tries-to-hold-on-to-last-straws-in-his-appeal-for-vote-715237">Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote</a>

This is the first major election in Jammu after the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories five years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 102-year-old man showed up at a polling booth in Jammu to vote in the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Friday (Apr 26). Haji Karam Din, holding a walking stick, entered the polling station in the Reasi district of the Jammu constituency, accompanied by a family member who assisted him with the pre-voting process.

A 102-year-old man showed up at a polling booth in Jammu to vote in the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Friday (Apr 26). Haji Karam Din, holding a walking stick, entered the polling station in the Reasi district of the Jammu constituency, accompanied by a family member who assisted him with the pre-voting process. After casting his vote, the centenarian showed his inked finger and posed for photos outside the polling booth. "I am very happy to vote at this polling station at this age. I have voted every time. This journey is continuing even today at the age of 102," he told news agency PTI. Reasi district is part of the Jammu parliamentary constituency with more than 17.81 lakh electors eligible to cast their vote to decide the fate of 22 candidates. Current BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma is aiming for a third consecutive term after winning in the 2014 and 2019 elections. His main competitor is Raman Bhalla, a Congress candidate and former minister. Also read: 78-year-old woman hospitalised for low oxygen levels votes while on stretcher Voting began in the Jammu-Reasi Lok Sabha constituency with enthusiastic turnout, as some voters arrived at the polling stations dressed in traditional Dogra attire. Polling commenced at 7 am across 2,416 polling stations in the constituency, with 10.39 per cent of votes cast by 9 am. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jammu had a voter turnout of 74 per cent. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote This is the first major election in Jammu after the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories five years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old casts vote at Jammu polling booth

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav will contest the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Uttar Pradesh's Kannauj, the seat that has sent him to parliament three times.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav will contest the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Uttar Pradesh's Kannauj, the seat that has sent him to parliament three times. Akhilesh Yadav, a former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday (Apr 25) filed his papers from Kanuaj. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav files his nomination from Kannauj, Subrat Pathak. (Video Source: District PRO)#LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/Iy6PWFpqd2 — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2024 × He won from this seat three times. His wife, Dimple Yadav, and father, the late Mulayam Singh Yadav, also contested this seat in the past. Akhilesh Yadav's homecoming Yadav's return to Kannauj means that SP leader Tej Pratap Singh Yadav, who was nominated as the candidate earlier this week, will not run for this seat. Tej Pratap Yadav is Akhilesh Yadav's nephew and the grandson of Mulayam Yadav's brother Ranveer. He won the Mainpuri seat in the 2014 election. According to reports, the change was due to tension among SP workers on the ground, who wanted the party head to run for the family seat. Yadav had previously decided against running in this election because he needed time to develop his overall strategy. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Smriti Irani reacts sarcastically to ‘Amethi wants Robert Vadra’ posters Kannauj: An ex-bastion of Samajwadi Party Kannauj was a bastion of the Samajwadi Party till the BJP's Subrat Pathak won in 2019. The seat was won by Akhilesh Yadav in the 2000 by-election, and he held it in the general elections of 2004 and 2009. Dimple Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav's wife, won the seat in 2012 by-polls. She retained it in the 2014 election but lost to BJP's Subrat Pathak in 2019. She was later fielded from Mainpuri in the 2022 by-poll following the death of Mulayam Singh Yadav. She is again contesting from the Mainpuri seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In this election, the SP has allied with the Congress-led INDIA Bloc. It is contesting 63 of Uttar Pradesh's 80 Lok Sabha seats. The remaining 17 have been given to Congress. Kannauj will vote in the fourth phase of the 2024 elections, on May 13.

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav files nomination in UP's Kannauj

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence.

This came days after the security forces successfully concluded the anti-Naxal operation in the state, killing at least 29 Naxals in Bastar, which is&nbsp;also known as the hub of Red Terror.

The village,&nbsp;a stronghold of Naxals, comprised 325 registered voters, including 162 women.

Earlier in the day, Bastar Inspector General of Police (IG) P Sundarraj said that people full of enthusiasm were seen queuing up outside polling booths amid a three-layer security cordon.

Bastar was the only one of the state's 11 Lok Sabha constituencies that went into polls on the opening phase of the Lok Sabha polls on Friday (Apr 19).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-elections-2024-102-year-old-woman-heads-to-polling-booth-to-vote-in-tamil-nadu-watch-713109">Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH</a>

"Robust and safe polling is being conducted in Baster in the first phase of the general elections today. Locals are arriving and queuing up outside polling booths with absolute confidence and without fear. Three-layered security arrangements were made in the area and additional forces were also put on standby. In border areas, special forces from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha helped us maintain security," IG P Sundarraj said while speaking to news agency ANI.

The rest of the constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 9 of the 11 seats in the state in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while the Congress secured only 2.

Deepak Baij of the Congress party won the polls in Bastar.

The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These&nbsp;include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence.

As the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls kickstarted on Friday (Apr 19), Chhattisgarh's Chandameta village in Bastar district cast its vote for the very first time since Independence. This came days after the security forces successfully concluded the anti-Naxal operation in the state, killing at least 29 Naxals in Bastar, which is also known as the hub of Red Terror. The village, a stronghold of Naxals, comprised 325 registered voters, including 162 women. Earlier in the day, Bastar Inspector General of Police (IG) P Sundarraj said that people full of enthusiasm were seen queuing up outside polling booths amid a three-layer security cordon. Bastar was the only one of the state's 11 Lok Sabha constituencies that went into polls on the opening phase of the Lok Sabha polls on Friday (Apr 19). Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH "Robust and safe polling is being conducted in Baster in the first phase of the general elections today. Locals are arriving and queuing up outside polling booths with absolute confidence and without fear. Three-layered security arrangements were made in the area and additional forces were also put on standby. In border areas, special forces from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha helped us maintain security," IG P Sundarraj said while speaking to news agency ANI. The rest of the constituencies will go to polls on April 26 and May 7. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 9 of the 11 seats in the state in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while the Congress secured only 2. Deepak Baij of the Congress party won the polls in Bastar. The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: Chandameta in Bastar votes for first time since Independence

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region.

The state of Chhattisgarh, which has 11 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in three phases on April 19, 26 and May 7 of Lok Sabha elections.

&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEh8-mjMmFAxVBTWcHHTmABUMQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1h3jMLUXOiV-cMQ7LrgbAN&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/chhattisgarh-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703897" target="_blank">Chhattisgarh&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats</a>

The Bastar-Jagdalpur (ST) Lok Sabha constituency lies at the core of the state's tribal community.

It holds the status of a Scheduled Tribe (ST) reserved constituency, covering Bastar-Jagdalpur and Bijapur districts, as well as Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Sukma districts.

Here are the key candidates

Mahesh Kashyap&nbsp;

In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded Mahesh Kashyap as its candidate. While there were several notable contenders, such as former MPs and seasoned politicians like Kedar Kashyap and Dinesh Kashyap, the BJP chose Mahesh, a youthful and committed member with a solid background in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal.

Mahesh Kashyap is currently the District President of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Scheduled Tribe Morcha and also the State Vice President of Sarva Adivasi Tribal Samaj.&nbsp;

He has been raising his voice against the conversion of tribals under the banner of Bastar Cultural Forum.

Kawasi Lakhma

Congress decided to field Kawasi Lakhma as their candidate in Bastar. Lakhma is a experienced politician with a strong connection to the region. He has an undefeated track record as MLA. Lakhma’s popularity stems from his ability to connect with the people on a personal level.

Kawasi Lakhma is a cabinet minister in Chhattisgarh. He has been elected from the Konta constituency five times.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWjNibjMmFAxXTcvUHHTbHAHoQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2EmiaMre7yolcxIBi8MH3J&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/assam-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-703876" target="_blank">Assam&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phases, seats</a>

He is a tribal leader. He was elected as an MLA in 2003 with a huge margin. Lakhma had raised questions on the quality of development activities in Naxalism-hit Sukma district of Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

He is the cabinet minister of Commercial Tax, Commerce and Industry in the Chhattisgarh government. The Konta constituency is a part of the Sukma district.&nbsp;In 2018, Kawasi Lakhma won from the seat

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region.

The voting for phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections of 2024 is underway in Bastar in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh on Friday (Apr 19). The voting is taking place under heavy security as it comes a day after 29 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the region. The state of Chhattisgarh, which has 11 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in three phases on April 19, 26 and May 7 of Lok Sabha elections. Also read: Chhattisgarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats The Bastar-Jagdalpur (ST) Lok Sabha constituency lies at the core of the state's tribal community. It holds the status of a Scheduled Tribe (ST) reserved constituency, covering Bastar-Jagdalpur and Bijapur districts, as well as Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Sukma districts. Here are the key candidates Mahesh Kashyap In this election, the ruling party BJP has fielded Mahesh Kashyap as its candidate. While there were several notable contenders, such as former MPs and seasoned politicians like Kedar Kashyap and Dinesh Kashyap, the BJP chose Mahesh, a youthful and committed member with a solid background in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal. Mahesh Kashyap is currently the District President of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Scheduled Tribe Morcha and also the State Vice President of Sarva Adivasi Tribal Samaj. He has been raising his voice against the conversion of tribals under the banner of Bastar Cultural Forum. Kawasi Lakhma Congress decided to field Kawasi Lakhma as their candidate in Bastar. Lakhma is a experienced politician with a strong connection to the region. He has an undefeated track record as MLA. Lakhma’s popularity stems from his ability to connect with the people on a personal level. Kawasi Lakhma is a cabinet minister in Chhattisgarh. He has been elected from the Konta constituency five times. Also read: Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, phases, seats He is a tribal leader. He was elected as an MLA in 2003 with a huge margin. Lakhma had raised questions on the quality of development activities in Naxalism-hit Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. He is the cabinet minister of Commercial Tax, Commerce and Industry in the Chhattisgarh government. The Konta constituency is a part of the Sukma district. In 2018, Kawasi Lakhma won from the seat (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Chhattisgarh Phase 1 voting underway. Here are the key candidates

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls.&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh will also go in simultaneous elections on April 19, officials announced on March 31. A total of 133 candidates will contest polls for the 50 Assembly constituencies in the state. The ruling-state party BJP has already won 10 seats of the 60-member assembly uncontested. Among those who won are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and the first two-time candidates - Ratu Techi and Hage Appa from Sagalee and Ziro-Hapoli seats consecutively.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-scientists-create-new-lightweight-nozzle-for-rocket-engines-calling-it-breakthrough-711887">ISRO scientists create new lightweight nozzle for rocket engines, calling it 'breakthrough'</a>

Arunachal Pradesh has only two constituencies - Arunachal West and Arunachal East.&nbsp;

In the 2014 elections, Kiren Rijiju of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the Arunachal West Lok Sabha constituency, defeating Nabam Tuki of the Indian National Congress (INC).

Tapir Gao from the BJP clinched victory in the Arunachal East Lok Sabha constituency triumphing over Lowangcha Wanglat of the INC by a significant margin of 69,948 votes.

Here are the key candidates contesting elections in Arunachal Pradesh:

<h2>Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates&nbsp;</h2>

<h3>Kiren Rijiju</h3>

Kiren Rijiju is the current cabinet minister of Earth and Sciences in the NDA government since 2023. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) since 2014, representing Arunachal West. Earlier, he served as the Minister of State for Home Affairs from 2014 to 2019. He also served as the Law Minister from 2021 to 2023.

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His tenure as Law Minister was marked by controversies. In 2022, Kiren called the collegium system of appointment of judges in the Indian judicial system “opaque”, implying that appointments are done on personal networks rather than merit.&nbsp;

<h3>Tapir Gao</h3>

Tapir&nbsp;Gao leads the BJP unit in Arunachal East in the state. He was a member of the 14th Lok Sabha representing the Arunachal East constituency for BJP. He lost that seat in 2009 and 2014 but was elected to Lok Sabha for the second time in 2019. Gao was also the General Secretary of the BJP in 2011 and is currently a national executive member of the BJP.

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In February 2020, in the Lok Sabha, he raised the issue of several areas in Arunachal Pradesh being left out from the political map of India. This included "Hadigra Dakahru Pass, Galai Tagaru Pass... in Chaglagam area."

<h3>Nabam Tuki</h3>

Nabam Tuki is associated with the Congress party and represents Arunachal West constituency. He has also served as the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh (2011- 2016). In June 2021, he was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for allegedly awarding contracts to his relative without following proper channels during his tenure as the Minister of Public Works Department and Urban Development in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls.

India is gearing up for one of its biggest elections in the upcoming month with 28 states and eight Union Territories going to polls. The seven-phase Lok Sabha elections are set to begin on April 19, with many states going for the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha Polls. Arunachal Pradesh will also go in simultaneous elections on April 19, officials announced on March 31. A total of 133 candidates will contest polls for the 50 Assembly constituencies in the state. The ruling-state party BJP has already won 10 seats of the 60-member assembly uncontested. Among those who won are Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and the first two-time candidates - Ratu Techi and Hage Appa from Sagalee and Ziro-Hapoli seats consecutively. Also Read | ISRO scientists create new lightweight nozzle for rocket engines, calling it 'breakthrough' Arunachal Pradesh has only two constituencies - Arunachal West and Arunachal East. In the 2014 elections, Kiren Rijiju of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the Arunachal West Lok Sabha constituency, defeating Nabam Tuki of the Indian National Congress (INC). Tapir Gao from the BJP clinched victory in the Arunachal East Lok Sabha constituency triumphing over Lowangcha Wanglat of the INC by a significant margin of 69,948 votes. Here are the key candidates contesting elections in Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Key candidates Kiren Rijiju Kiren Rijiju is the current cabinet minister of Earth and Sciences in the NDA government since 2023. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) since 2014, representing Arunachal West. Earlier, he served as the Minister of State for Home Affairs from 2014 to 2019. He also served as the Law Minister from 2021 to 2023. Also Read | You are not so innocent, Supreme Court tells Patanjali in misleading ads case His tenure as Law Minister was marked by controversies. In 2022, Kiren called the collegium system of appointment of judges in the Indian judicial system “opaque”, implying that appointments are done on personal networks rather than merit. Tapir Gao Tapir Gao leads the BJP unit in Arunachal East in the state. He was a member of the 14th Lok Sabha representing the Arunachal East constituency for BJP. He lost that seat in 2009 and 2014 but was elected to Lok Sabha for the second time in 2019. Gao was also the General Secretary of the BJP in 2011 and is currently a national executive member of the BJP. Also Read | North Indians are mistaken for Bengalis in THIS country. The simple reasoning dates back to British rule In February 2020, in the Lok Sabha, he raised the issue of several areas in Arunachal Pradesh being left out from the political map of India. This included "Hadigra Dakahru Pass, Galai Tagaru Pass... in Chaglagam area." Nabam Tuki Nabam Tuki is associated with the Congress party and represents Arunachal West constituency. He has also served as the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh (2011- 2016). In June 2021, he was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for allegedly awarding contracts to his relative without following proper channels during his tenure as the Minister of Public Works Department and Urban Development in Arunachal Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Arunachal Pradesh phase 1 voting underway. Here are the key candidates

A grandmother, a mother, and her two daughters embarked on a family outing in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to participate in the 2024 Lok Sabha election.&nbsp;

The voting for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections&nbsp;commenced today (April 19) with 102 contests spanning 21 states and union territories.

News agency ANI shared a photograph that showed&nbsp;the grandmother Prabha Sharma and her daughter, Preeti Kaushik standing with Shamita and Sakshi Kaushik, the&nbsp;granddaughters, coming out of the polling station after casting their vote

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699">Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE: Polls record over 9.7% voter turnout till 9 am</a>

Today, all five Lok Sabha seats in Uttarakhand are up for voting. In the 2019 election, the BJP secured victory in all five seats and also emerged victorious in the Assembly election last year, surpassing the Congress by a significant margin.

BJP clinched 47 out of the 70 Assembly seats, marking a notable achievement despite a slight decrease compared to the previous tally.

While the Congress won just 19 seats, that was an increase of eight seats and a 4.39 per cent vote share. The opposition party will hope that that improvement carries&nbsp;over into this election.

Dehradun city falls under the Haridwar seat, which has been held by the BJP's Ramesh Pokhriyal since 2014, before which it was held by former Chief Minister Harish Rawat for the Congress.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-polls-in-arunachal-pradesh-sikkim-voting-in-indian-states-underway-712854">India elections 2024: Assembly polls underway in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim states</a>

This year, the BJP has given the ticket to Trivendra Singh Rawat, who served as the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand between 2017 and 2021. The Congress has fielded Virender Rawat as the joint opposition candidate.

BJP has the control over the Garhwal seat since 2014, initially won by BC Khanduri followed by Tirath Singh Rawat in 2019. In this election, Anil Baluni holds the BJP ticket, competing against Ganesh Godiyal from the Congress party.

(With inputs from agencies)

A grandmother, a mother, and her two daughters embarked on a family outing in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to participate in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The voting for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections commenced today (April 19) with 102 contests spanning 21 states and union territories.

A grandmother, a mother, and her two daughters embarked on a family outing in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to participate in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The voting for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections commenced today (April 19) with 102 contests spanning 21 states and union territories. News agency ANI shared a photograph that showed the grandmother Prabha Sharma and her daughter, Preeti Kaushik standing with Shamita and Sakshi Kaushik, the granddaughters, coming out of the polling station after casting their vote Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE: Polls record over 9.7% voter turnout till 9 am Today, all five Lok Sabha seats in Uttarakhand are up for voting. In the 2019 election, the BJP secured victory in all five seats and also emerged victorious in the Assembly election last year, surpassing the Congress by a significant margin. BJP clinched 47 out of the 70 Assembly seats, marking a notable achievement despite a slight decrease compared to the previous tally. While the Congress won just 19 seats, that was an increase of eight seats and a 4.39 per cent vote share. The opposition party will hope that that improvement carries over into this election. Dehradun city falls under the Haridwar seat, which has been held by the BJP's Ramesh Pokhriyal since 2014, before which it was held by former Chief Minister Harish Rawat for the Congress. Also read: India elections 2024: Assembly polls underway in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim states This year, the BJP has given the ticket to Trivendra Singh Rawat, who served as the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand between 2017 and 2021. The Congress has fielded Virender Rawat as the joint opposition candidate. BJP has the control over the Garhwal seat since 2014, initially won by BC Khanduri followed by Tirath Singh Rawat in 2019. In this election, Anil Baluni holds the BJP ticket, competing against Ganesh Godiyal from the Congress party. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Three generations of women exercise their right to vote in Uttarakhand

On April 19, 2024, Meghalaya is voting for its two Lok Sabha constituencies Shillong and Tura in the first phase of India's Lok Sabha elections. The first phase is witnessing voting for 91 seats across 18 states and two union territories.

On April 19, 2024, Meghalaya is voting for its two Lok Sabha constituencies Shillong and Tura in the first phase of India's Lok Sabha elections. The first phase is witnessing voting for 91 seats across 18 states and two union territories. List of candidates for 2024 polls in Meghalaya: The candidates running for Shillong (ST) are Ricky AJ Syngkon of the Voter's Party of India (VPP), Vincent Pala of the Indian National Congress, Ampareen Lyngdoh of the National People's Party (NPP), and Robertjune Kharjahrin of the United Democratic Party (UDP). Candidates for Tura (ST) are Saleng A. Sangma of the Indian National Congress, Agatha Sangma of the National People's Party (NPP), and Zenith Sangma of the All India Trinamool Congress. Also read: Mizoram Lok Sabha elections 2024: Polling dates, phases, candidates list and all you need to know Key contenders: CM Conrad Sangma told ANI, "We are confident of securing victory in both seats- Shillong and Tura in Meghalaya. The impact of the work carried out by NPP in Meghalaya in the last 6 years is evident, particularly in Garo Hills. The public will vote for the NPP for the development initiatives undertaken." "Our MP (Agatha Sangma) has made a significant contribution towards the development of the state. We urge people to come forward and support our MP. The opposition is currently fragmented, with leaders from the former Congress party dispersing into different factions. Due to this fragmented opposition, I believe we will secure victory by a considerable margin," he added. Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule: Voting for the Lok Sabha elections will take place in seven phases: the first on April 19, the second on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25, and the seventh on June 1. The outcome will be announced on June 4.

Lok Sabha polls 2024: Meghalaya votes in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates

As the Lok Sabha polls are drawing closer, the Congress on Sunday (Apr 14) released its list of 10 candidates for Delhi as well as Punjab.

In Punjab, the grand old party has fielded former Punjab chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi for the Jalandhar-SC Lok Sabha seat.

Sitting MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla has been fielded from the Amritsar seat, whereas Amar Singh has been handed the ticket from Fatehgarh Sahib (SC) Lok Sabha seat.

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Former MP Dharamvir Gandhi has been handed the ticket from the Patiala Lok Sabha seat days after he quit the Aam Aadmi Party and joined Congress.

For the Sangrur seat, the party nominated All India Kisan wing supremo Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu from the Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency, which is currently represented by Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief's wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal.&nbsp;

For Delhi, veteran politician JP Agarwal has been given the ticket from the Chandni Chowk seat against BJP candidate Praveen Khandelwal.

Kanhaiya Kumar has been fielded from North East Delhi against BJP North East Delhi candidate Manoj Tiwari.

Udit Raj will contest from North-West Delhi against BJP candidate Yogendra Chandolia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-releases-its-manifesto-for-polls-here-are-the-key-takeaways-711075">Lok Sabha elections 2024: BJP releases poll manifesto. Here are the key takeaways</a>

<h2>BJP and AAP's picks for Punjab</h2>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded former Congress MP and former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh's wife Preneet Kaur from Patiala who had won the same seat in the 2019 general elections on Congress ticket.

Kaur was suspended by the Congress in February 2023 over alleged 'anti-party' activities and she joined the BJP in March this year.

AAP has fielded Dr Balbir Singh from the Patiala seat.

For the Amritsar seat, BJP fielded former Indian Ambassador to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

From the Jalandhar constituency, the party fielded AAP's lone MP Sushil Kumar Rinku who quit the Kejriwal-led outfit and joined the BJP last month.

For Faridkot, which is a reserved seat, the saffron party fielded singer and MP from North West Delhi Hans Raj Hans.

Karamjit Anmol has been nominated by AAP for the Faridkot.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Lok Sabha polls are drawing closer, the Congress on Sunday (Apr 14) released its list of 10 candidates for Delhi as well as Punjab. In Punjab, the grand old party has fielded former Punjab chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi for the Jalandhar-SC Lok Sabha seat.

As the Lok Sabha polls are drawing closer, the Congress on Sunday (Apr 14) released its list of 10 candidates for Delhi as well as Punjab. In Punjab, the grand old party has fielded former Punjab chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi for the Jalandhar-SC Lok Sabha seat. Sitting MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla has been fielded from the Amritsar seat, whereas Amar Singh has been handed the ticket from Fatehgarh Sahib (SC) Lok Sabha seat. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | Congress releases another list of 10 candidates for the general elections. Kanhaiya Kumar to contest from North East Delhi (against BJP North East Delhi candidate Manoj Tiwari), JP Agarwal to contest from Chandni Chowk (against BJP candidate from… pic.twitter.com/0c4oiZVIn9 — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2024 × Former MP Dharamvir Gandhi has been handed the ticket from the Patiala Lok Sabha seat days after he quit the Aam Aadmi Party and joined Congress. For the Sangrur seat, the party nominated All India Kisan wing supremo Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu from the Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency, which is currently represented by Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief's wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal. For Delhi, veteran politician JP Agarwal has been given the ticket from the Chandni Chowk seat against BJP candidate Praveen Khandelwal. Kanhaiya Kumar has been fielded from North East Delhi against BJP North East Delhi candidate Manoj Tiwari. Udit Raj will contest from North-West Delhi against BJP candidate Yogendra Chandolia. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: BJP releases poll manifesto. Here are the key takeaways BJP and AAP's picks for Punjab The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded former Congress MP and former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh's wife Preneet Kaur from Patiala who had won the same seat in the 2019 general elections on Congress ticket. Kaur was suspended by the Congress in February 2023 over alleged 'anti-party' activities and she joined the BJP in March this year. AAP has fielded Dr Balbir Singh from the Patiala seat. For the Amritsar seat, BJP fielded former Indian Ambassador to the United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu. From the Jalandhar constituency, the party fielded AAP's lone MP Sushil Kumar Rinku who quit the Kejriwal-led outfit and joined the BJP last month. For Faridkot, which is a reserved seat, the saffron party fielded singer and MP from North West Delhi Hans Raj Hans. Karamjit Anmol has been nominated by AAP for the Faridkot. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Polls: Congress releases list of 10 candidates, fields Kanhaiya Kumar from North East Delhi

Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA&nbsp;in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state.&nbsp;

The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls.

Congress also fielded former Union minister Manish Tewari from the Chandigarh parliamentary constituency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-shares-video-of-adhir-ranjan-chowdhurys-altercation-with-party-worker-display-of-hooliganism-710925">TMC shares video of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's altercation with party worker; 'display of hooliganism'</a>

The other candidates in the list were Ramji Thakor from Mahesana, Himmatsinh Patel from Ahmedabad East, Pareshbhai Dhanani from Rajkot, Naishadh Desai from Navasari, Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla, Mohan Hembram from Keonjhar, Shrikant Kumar Jena from Balasore, Anant Prasad Sethi from Bhadrak, Anchal Das from Jajpur, Sashmita Behera from Dhenkanal, Sidharth Swarup Das from Kendrapara, Rabindra Kumar Sethy from Jagatsinghpur, Sucharita Mohanty from puri and Yasir Nawa from Bhubaneswar.

Vikramaditya Singh is the son of the Congress' Himachal Pradesh unit chief Pratibha Singh.

Slamming Kangana Ranaut for her ‘Chhota Pappu’ remark, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Thursday that he would pray to Lord Ram to give her some "sense."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-court-sends-brs-leader-k-kavitha-to-cbi-custody-till-april-15-710519">India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15</a>&nbsp;

In a video message, Singh expressed that Kangana Ranaut is attempting to mislead the public and shift the focus away from the state's issues. He also challenged her to engage in a debate with him.

"We respect our elder sister Kangana Ranaut in high regard. Today, she addressed the people of Manali."

"Rather than criticising the Congress party and its leaders, it would have been more constructive if she had addressed the significant disaster that occurred in Manali a few months ago, which is considered one of the biggest calamities of the century," Singh remarked.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state. The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls.

Vikramaditya Singh, the Congress MLA in Himachal Pradesh, will be fighting against BJP's Kangana Ranaut in Mandi Lok Sabha constituency of the state. The Congress on Saturday (April 13) announced a list of 16 more candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. Congress also fielded former Union minister Manish Tewari from the Chandigarh parliamentary constituency. Also read: TMC shares video of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's altercation with party worker; 'display of hooliganism' The other candidates in the list were Ramji Thakor from Mahesana, Himmatsinh Patel from Ahmedabad East, Pareshbhai Dhanani from Rajkot, Naishadh Desai from Navasari, Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla, Mohan Hembram from Keonjhar, Shrikant Kumar Jena from Balasore, Anant Prasad Sethi from Bhadrak, Anchal Das from Jajpur, Sashmita Behera from Dhenkanal, Sidharth Swarup Das from Kendrapara, Rabindra Kumar Sethy from Jagatsinghpur, Sucharita Mohanty from puri and Yasir Nawa from Bhubaneswar. Vikramaditya Singh is the son of the Congress' Himachal Pradesh unit chief Pratibha Singh. Slamming Kangana Ranaut for her ‘Chhota Pappu’ remark, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Thursday that he would pray to Lord Ram to give her some "sense." Also read: India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15 In a video message, Singh expressed that Kangana Ranaut is attempting to mislead the public and shift the focus away from the state's issues. He also challenged her to engage in a debate with him. "We respect our elder sister Kangana Ranaut in high regard. Today, she addressed the people of Manali." "Rather than criticising the Congress party and its leaders, it would have been more constructive if she had addressed the significant disaster that occurred in Manali a few months ago, which is considered one of the biggest calamities of the century," Singh remarked. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress fields Vikramaditya Singh against Kangana Ranaut from Mandi in Himachal

As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, political parties mocking each other is not new but India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh got creative and used the viral 'moye moye' meme to take a jab at the opposition INDIA bloc.

As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, political parties mocking each other is not new but India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh got creative and used the viral 'moye moye' meme to take a jab at the opposition INDIA bloc. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday (April 3) said that the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance doesn't stand a chance against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance in the Lok Sabha elections as "desh ki janata moye moye kar degi" (the people will make the Opposition come a cropper in the elections). The Union Cabinet Minister called the INDIA bloc “an alliance of convenience of some self-seeking Opposition leaders” while campaigning for upcoming general elections in Ghaziabad for sitting MP Atul Garg. . @rajnathsingh ji’s dig on Congress with 'Moye moye' is the best thing to watch 😂 pic.twitter.com/t0Ti1pAv6h — Political Kida (@PoliticalKida) April 3, 2024 × “Several Opposition parties came together to fight and defeat the BJP. However, you can all see that this is an alliance of convenience of some self-seeking Opposition leaders. However, they can’t even face the NDA even if they are united. Is desh ki janata iska bhi moye moye kar degi (the people will make the Opposition come a cropper in the elections),” he said. Also read | Rajnath Singh cites Chinese article, says India's rising global standing 'can no longer be ignored' Speaking on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi changed India's standing globally after assuming power in 2014, Rajnath Singh said, "India of today is a powerful country. The world didn't take us seriously before, but PM Modi performed a miracle to bring us where we are now. Today, when India talks on a global stage, the whole world listens." What is 'moye moye' trend? It all started with a Serbian song that went viral on TikTok and from there reached other social media platforms. The song titled 'Dzanum' by Serbian singer-songwriter Teya Dora is about nightmares, anguish, and despair. The trend includes people performing 'tragedy to comedy' acts while the hook of this song plays in the background. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajnath Singh takes swipe at INDIA bloc through viral ‘moye moye’ trend

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways.&nbsp;

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference.

She also said that PDP will contest all three seats in the Kashmir valley while no decision has been taken so far with regard to the Jammu region. She also said that the announcement about the candidates will be done in a couple of days by the party.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-rahul-gandhi-holds-big-roadshow-in-keralas-wayanad-ahead-of-filing-nomination-707181">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi files nomination from southern India's Wayanad</a>

''It was very important for all of us to go together looking at the current situation in the Valley. In Mumbai, during the INDIA alliance meeting, I categorically had said that Dr Farooq Abdullah is our senior leader and whatever he decides with regard to Jammu and Kashmir will be acceptable to all of us. I was hoping he would take a decision beyond party benefits. And even if they had to take the same decision and they thought they had better candidates, they would have just communicated it to us. Omar Abdullah without even consulting us made statements in the media that PDP doesn't exist anymore, Mehbooba Mufti has come on number four, due to that my workers have been demotivated. It was a harsh statement by Omar. I am left with no choice but with modesty we will have our own candidates fighting for elections," said Mufti.

While Mehbooba said that National Conference leader left no choice for them but to go solo, Omar Abdullah reacted to it and said that he made no remarks about PDP and its their choice if they want to fight for seats in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rjd-leader-tejashwi-yadav-defends-lalus-parivaar-jibe-at-pm-modi-accuses-bjp-of-distracting-people-696938">India: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav defends dad Lalu’s ‘parivaar’ jibe at PM Modi,</a>

''I’ve made no remarks about Mehbooba’s party. I’ve nothing to say on this. It’s her choice if she wants to contest for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Based on their formula we announced candidates. We had told them that based on DDC elections we should decide on the candidates for Lok Sabha. PDP had insisted that we go by the 2014 assembly election results. Wherever we had won, we picked our candidates. We had kept doors open but it seems she has closed them. Seems like there wouldn’t be an assembly alliance as well,'' said Omar.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NC has nominated Mian Altaf as their candidate from South Kashmir and likely will have an alliance with the Congress in Jammu region. PDP has decided to field candidates in Kashmir Valley while they might also support Congress candidates in the Jammu region.

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference.

The INDIA alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference and People's Democratic Party have decided to go their separate ways. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today (April 3) announced that there will be no alliance with the National Conference. She also said that PDP will contest all three seats in the Kashmir valley while no decision has been taken so far with regard to the Jammu region. She also said that the announcement about the candidates will be done in a couple of days by the party. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi files nomination from southern India's Wayanad ''It was very important for all of us to go together looking at the current situation in the Valley. In Mumbai, during the INDIA alliance meeting, I categorically had said that Dr Farooq Abdullah is our senior leader and whatever he decides with regard to Jammu and Kashmir will be acceptable to all of us. I was hoping he would take a decision beyond party benefits. And even if they had to take the same decision and they thought they had better candidates, they would have just communicated it to us. Omar Abdullah without even consulting us made statements in the media that PDP doesn't exist anymore, Mehbooba Mufti has come on number four, due to that my workers have been demotivated. It was a harsh statement by Omar. I am left with no choice but with modesty we will have our own candidates fighting for elections," said Mufti. While Mehbooba said that National Conference leader left no choice for them but to go solo, Omar Abdullah reacted to it and said that he made no remarks about PDP and its their choice if they want to fight for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: India: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav defends dad Lalu’s ‘parivaar’ jibe at PM Modi, ''I’ve made no remarks about Mehbooba’s party. I’ve nothing to say on this. It’s her choice if she wants to contest for seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Based on their formula we announced candidates. We had told them that based on DDC elections we should decide on the candidates for Lok Sabha. PDP had insisted that we go by the 2014 assembly election results. Wherever we had won, we picked our candidates. We had kept doors open but it seems she has closed them. Seems like there wouldn’t be an assembly alliance as well,'' said Omar. Meanwhile, NC has nominated Mian Altaf as their candidate from South Kashmir and likely will have an alliance with the Congress in Jammu region. PDP has decided to field candidates in Kashmir Valley while they might also support Congress candidates in the Jammu region.

No INDIA alliance in J&K: Mehbooba Mufti’s PDP to contest all 3 Lok Sabha seats in valley

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has turned down Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda’s offer to contest Lok Sabha polls due to financial constraints.&nbsp;The finance minister speaking at a summit on Wednesday (March 27) said she does not have ‘the kind of money’ to fight the Lok Sabha elections.

“After thinking over a week or ten days, I went back to say… maybe not. I do not have that kind of money to contest,” PTI quoted her as saying.

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“I also have a problem whether it is Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu. It’s also going to be a question of various other winnability criteria that they use…Are you from this community or are you from that religion? Are you from this? I said no, I do not think I am going to able to do it,” the finance minister added.

Wondering how much money a candidate needs to run in a Lok Sabha election? Let's check this out:&nbsp;

The expense for contesting an election is based on the candidate's income. Nonetheless, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has a spending cap.

9.5 million cap for Lok Sabha

A candidate can not spend more than 9.5 million for bigger constituencies with more voters, and up to 7.5 million for smaller constituencies. While the limit for assembly constituencies is 4 million for a bigger seat and 2 million for a seat with a smaller size and less voters.

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has never contested Lok Sabha elections for which a candidate needs hectic campaigning. She has been a Rajya Sabha member, which of course doesn't require that kind of people connect and campaigning strategies.

She declared a net worth of about 25 million in her affidavit when she contested the Rajya Sabha polls in 2016.

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So far in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, with declared assets worth over 583 millions, Ashok Kumar, the AIADMK candidate for the Erode seat, is the richest candidate.

It is worth mentioning here that, in 2019 Lok Sabha polls, of the top 10 richest candidates, six were from the Congress party. The richest was an independent candidate Ramesh Kumar Sharma, who contested from Patliputra in Bihar. Sharma had declared assets worth over &nbsp;1,107 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has turned down Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda’s offer to contest Lok Sabha polls due to financial constraints.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has turned down Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda’s offer to contest Lok Sabha polls due to financial constraints. The finance minister speaking at a summit on Wednesday (March 27) said she does not have ‘the kind of money’ to fight the Lok Sabha elections. “After thinking over a week or ten days, I went back to say… maybe not. I do not have that kind of money to contest,” PTI quoted her as saying. Also read: Former Haryana minister Savitri Jindal quits Congress, joins BJP “I also have a problem whether it is Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu. It’s also going to be a question of various other winnability criteria that they use…Are you from this community or are you from that religion? Are you from this? I said no, I do not think I am going to able to do it,” the finance minister added. Wondering how much money a candidate needs to run in a Lok Sabha election? Let's check this out: The expense for contesting an election is based on the candidate's income. Nonetheless, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has a spending cap. 9.5 million cap for Lok Sabha A candidate can not spend more than 9.5 million for bigger constituencies with more voters, and up to 7.5 million for smaller constituencies. While the limit for assembly constituencies is 4 million for a bigger seat and 2 million for a seat with a smaller size and less voters. Also read: 'To bully others is vintage Congress culture': PM Modi on lawyers' letter to Chief Justice of India Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has never contested Lok Sabha elections for which a candidate needs hectic campaigning. She has been a Rajya Sabha member, which of course doesn't require that kind of people connect and campaigning strategies. She declared a net worth of about 25 million in her affidavit when she contested the Rajya Sabha polls in 2016. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Bollywood actor Govinda joins Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena So far in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, with declared assets worth over 583 millions, Ashok Kumar, the AIADMK candidate for the Erode seat, is the richest candidate. It is worth mentioning here that, in 2019 Lok Sabha polls, of the top 10 richest candidates, six were from the Congress party. The richest was an independent candidate Ramesh Kumar Sharma, who contested from Patliputra in Bihar. Sharma had declared assets worth over 1,107 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian finance minister cites funds as issue behind not fighting polls. How much money is needed to contest?

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