Punjab has 5,004 voters aged between 100 and 119 years and 205 voters who are more than 120 years old, state chief electoral officer Sibin C said. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024: Punjab boasts over 5000 voters over 100 years of age

<p>Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The trust shown by Rahul Gandhi and the blessings by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are enough for me, I don't want anything else," Yadav said. He completed the joining the formalities in New Delhi in the presence of spokesperson Pawan Khera and other senior Congress leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Along with Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress, we will try to stop the BJP in Bihar till our last breath," Yadav added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/startup-mahakumbh-2024-pm-modi-affirms-india-boasts-more-than-125000-startups-702259">Startup Mahakumbh 2024: PM Modi affirms India boasts more than 125,000 startups</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Pappu Yadav, a former five-time MP from Bihar and political heavyweight in the state, has also merged his party with the Congress providing a major boost to the opposition bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yadav is known for having influence in the Seemanchal area of the eastern state. His wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, is the Congress Rajya Sabha MP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yadav looked confident about the Lok Sabha election result as he said that the alliance will win the Lok Sabha election and the 2025 assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thank my national president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. I will struggle to strengthen the Congress and work with all my might in this regard," Yadav added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Tussle for Tamil Nadu's Lok Sabha seats, PM Modi leading attack in DMK</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mk-stalins-dmk-releases-manifesto-list-of-candidates-for-lok-sabha-polls-702176">Lok Sabha polls: MK Stalin's DMK releases manifesto, list of candidates</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Danish Ali joins Congress&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In another major development, Lok Sabha MP Danish Ali, who was suspended from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), also joined the Congress on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ali represents the Amroha constituency in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He recently met former Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in the national capital and sought her "blessings".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear," Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party.

Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav on Wednesday (Mar 20) joined Indian National Congress (INC) in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He said that he was always with the "identity and ideology" of the party. "The trust shown by Rahul Gandhi and the blessings by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are enough for me, I don't want anything else," Yadav said. He completed the joining the formalities in New Delhi in the presence of spokesperson Pawan Khera and other senior Congress leaders. "Along with Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Congress, we will try to stop the BJP in Bihar till our last breath," Yadav added. Also read: Startup Mahakumbh 2024: PM Modi affirms India boasts more than 125,000 startups Pappu Yadav, a former five-time MP from Bihar and political heavyweight in the state, has also merged his party with the Congress providing a major boost to the opposition bloc. Yadav is known for having influence in the Seemanchal area of the eastern state. His wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, is the Congress Rajya Sabha MP. Yadav looked confident about the Lok Sabha election result as he said that the alliance will win the Lok Sabha election and the 2025 assembly elections. "I thank my national president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. I will struggle to strengthen the Congress and work with all my might in this regard," Yadav added. Watch: Tussle for Tamil Nadu's Lok Sabha seats, PM Modi leading attack in DMK × Also read: Lok Sabha polls: MK Stalin's DMK releases manifesto, list of candidates Danish Ali joins Congress In another major development, Lok Sabha MP Danish Ali, who was suspended from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), also joined the Congress on Wednesday. Ali represents the Amroha constituency in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He recently met former Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in the national capital and sought her "blessings". "Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear," Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Pappu Yadav merges his Jan Adhikar Party with Congress

<p>The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the UPSC Civil Service Prelims Exam 2024, which was scheduled for May 26, 2024. Aspirants intending to take the Civil Services Prelims examination can access the official notice on the UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.</p>

<p>The Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination – 2024, which also acts as a screening test for the Indian Forest Service Examination, 2024, scheduled for May 26, has now been deferred to June 16, 2024 due to the upcoming General Elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjnkOCr04CFAxWe-DgGHXepDPYQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2c_GLzRWfC8Q30Iwb_PcAL&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677" target="_blank"><b>Lok Sabha</b>&nbsp;Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in seven phases</a></p>

<p>The official notification states, “In light of the impending General Election schedule, the Commission has opted to postpone the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination – 2024, which also serves as the screening test for the Indian Forest Service Examination, 2024, from 26-05-2024 to 16-06-2024.”</p>

<p>For further details, candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website.</p>

<p>This year, the commission has advertised a total of 1,056 vacancies for CSE and 150 for IFoS. The UPSC CSE exam comprises three stages—prelims, mains, and the personality test. The preliminary exam for UPSC CSE will feature objective-type questions. Candidates surpassing the cut-off marks will qualify to register for the UPSC IAS Main examination.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-election-phase-result-dates-for-maharashtra-karnataka-up-gujarat-and-wb-700810" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-election-phase-result-dates-for-maharashtra-karnataka-up-gujarat-and-wb-700810&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjnkOCr04CFAxWe-DgGHXepDPYQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2HAOsn8RMTeEkeBSeLoEZr&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-election-phase-result-dates-for-maharashtra-karnataka-up-gujarat-and-wb-700810" target="_blank"><b>Lok Sabha</b>&nbsp;Election 2024 dates: Election phase, result dates</a></p>

<p>To be eligible for the exam, a candidate must have attained the age of 21 years and not have exceeded 32 years as of August 1, 2024, i.e., the candidate's birth date must fall between August 2, 1992, and August 1, 2003, as specified by the Commission in&nbsp;the CSE notification.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the UPSC Civil Service Prelims Exam 2024, which was scheduled for May 26, 2024. Aspirants intending to take the Civil Services Prelims examination can access the official notice on the UPSC website at upsc.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the UPSC Civil Service Prelims Exam 2024, which was scheduled for May 26, 2024. Aspirants intending to take the Civil Services Prelims examination can access the official notice on the UPSC website at upsc.gov.in. The Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination – 2024, which also acts as a screening test for the Indian Forest Service Examination, 2024, scheduled for May 26, has now been deferred to June 16, 2024 due to the upcoming General Elections. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in seven phases The official notification states, “In light of the impending General Election schedule, the Commission has opted to postpone the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination – 2024, which also serves as the screening test for the Indian Forest Service Examination, 2024, from 26-05-2024 to 16-06-2024.” For further details, candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website. This year, the commission has advertised a total of 1,056 vacancies for CSE and 150 for IFoS. The UPSC CSE exam comprises three stages—prelims, mains, and the personality test. The preliminary exam for UPSC CSE will feature objective-type questions. Candidates surpassing the cut-off marks will qualify to register for the UPSC IAS Main examination. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 dates: Election phase, result dates To be eligible for the exam, a candidate must have attained the age of 21 years and not have exceeded 32 years as of August 1, 2024, i.e., the candidate's birth date must fall between August 2, 1992, and August 1, 2003, as specified by the Commission in the CSE notification. (With inputs from agencies)

UPSC Civil Service Prelims Exam 2024 postponed due to Lok Sabha elections, to be held in June

WION Poll: Will PM Modi's over Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' remark hurt Congress in upcoming polls?

<p>The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16.</p>

<p>The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday. He said LJP (Ram Vilas) will contest five seats and Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha will fight one seat each.</p>

<p>"The NDA alliance will fight the polls collectively. We will put our full force on all 40 seats in the state. We will win on all the 40 seats. It is my belief," he said.</p>

<p>The BJP has got one seat more than the JD-U, according to the seat arrangement.</p>

<p>He said the BJP will field candidates in Pashchim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Aurangabad, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Maharajganj, Saran, Begusarai, Nawada, Patna Sahib, Patliputra, Aara, Buxar, and Sasaram.</p>

<p>Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) will contest Vaishali, Hajipur, Samastipur, Khagaria and Jamui. Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha on Gaya and Karakat seats respectively.</p>

<p>Bihar will see polling in seven phases. The first phase of polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth phase on May 13, the fifth phase on May 20, the sixth phase on May 25, and the seventh phase on June 1.</p>

<p>The Election Commission on Saturday announced the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The polling will be conducted in seven phases across the nation from April 19 to June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.&nbsp;</p>


The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16. The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday.

The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16. The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday. He said LJP (Ram Vilas) will contest five seats and Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha will fight one seat each. "The NDA alliance will fight the polls collectively. We will put our full force on all 40 seats in the state. We will win on all the 40 seats. It is my belief," he said. The BJP has got one seat more than the JD-U, according to the seat arrangement. He said the BJP will field candidates in Pashchim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Aurangabad, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Maharajganj, Saran, Begusarai, Nawada, Patna Sahib, Patliputra, Aara, Buxar, and Sasaram. Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) will contest Vaishali, Hajipur, Samastipur, Khagaria and Jamui. Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha on Gaya and Karakat seats respectively. Bihar will see polling in seven phases. The first phase of polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth phase on May 13, the fifth phase on May 20, the sixth phase on May 25, and the seventh phase on June 1. The Election Commission on Saturday announced the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The polling will be conducted in seven phases across the nation from April 19 to June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.

India elections 2024: NDA decides seat-sharing for Lok Sabha seats in Bihar; BJP to contest 17, JD-U 16

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Monday issued a clarification after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attack on him over his ‘Shakti’ remark. Watch in for more election update.

India Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi clarifies after 'Shakti' row explodes

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lashed out at the Opposition I.N.D.I.A. bloc, saying that the fight in 2024 is between those who want to destroy 'Shakti' and those who worship them. The comments of PM Modi came hours after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's "we are fighting against a Shakti" remark at a political rally in Mumbai. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024: PM Modi hits back at Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' remark

India Election 2024: PM Modi takes on Rahul Gandhi over 'Shakti' comment

India Election 2024: PM Modi fires back at Rahul Gandhi over 'Shakti' remark

<p>Ahead of the announcement of&nbsp;the Lok Sabha elections schedule by the&nbsp;Election Commission of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for suggestions, ideas and support from the citizens of the country&nbsp;in fulfilling the goal of creating a developed nation.</p>

<p>In his open letter to the country's citizens, Prime Minister Modi addressed them as “my dear family member”, and said, “Our partnership is at the threshold of completing a decade. The trust and support of 140 crore Indians inspires and motivates me.”</p>

<p>“The beauty of democracy lies in Janbhagidari or public participation. It is your support that gives me the immense strength to take bold decisions for the nation’s welfare, draw up aspirational plans and implement them smoothly,” the prime minister wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-jammu-and-kashmir-to-have-over-34-lakh-first-time-voters-700052">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters</a></p>

<p>“I need and indeed, look forward to your ideas, suggestions and support as we work to fulfil the resolve of building a Viksit Bharat. I am confident that we will continue to take our nation to great heights together,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi throws light on government's initiatives in past 10 years&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the open letter, the prime minister spoke about the initiatives of the government in the past 10 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is a measure of your trust and support that we could take several historic and major decisions like implementation of GST, abrogation of Article 370, new law on Triple Talaq, Nari Shakti Vandan Act to enhance women’s participation in Parliament, the inauguration of new Parliament building and strong steps against terrorism and Left-Wing Extremism,” the prime minister wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India elections 2024: In 2 Lok Sabha lists, BJP has dropped 21% sitting MPs already</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-in-2-lok-sabha-lists-bjp-has-dropped-21-sitting-mps-already-700004/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“The success of efforts such as pucca houses through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, access to electricity, water and LPG for all, free medical treatments through Ayushman Bharat, financial help to farmers, assistance to women through Matru Vandana Yojana and many more has been possible only due to the trust you have placed in me," he said.</p>

<p>“The transformation that has taken place in the lives of the people is the biggest achievement of our government over the last 10 years. These transformative outcomes are the result of the sincere efforts made by a determined government to improve the quality of life for the poor, farmers, youth and women,” the PM added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections schedule by the Election Commission of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for suggestions, ideas and support from the citizens of the country in fulfilling the goal of creating a developed nation.

Ahead of the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections schedule by the Election Commission of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for suggestions, ideas and support from the citizens of the country in fulfilling the goal of creating a developed nation. In his open letter to the country's citizens, Prime Minister Modi addressed them as “my dear family member”, and said, “Our partnership is at the threshold of completing a decade. The trust and support of 140 crore Indians inspires and motivates me.” “The beauty of democracy lies in Janbhagidari or public participation. It is your support that gives me the immense strength to take bold decisions for the nation’s welfare, draw up aspirational plans and implement them smoothly,” the prime minister wrote. Also Read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jammu and Kashmir to have over 3.4 lakh first-time voters “I need and indeed, look forward to your ideas, suggestions and support as we work to fulfil the resolve of building a Viksit Bharat. I am confident that we will continue to take our nation to great heights together,” he added. PM Modi throws light on government's initiatives in past 10 years In the open letter, the prime minister spoke about the initiatives of the government in the past 10 years. “It is a measure of your trust and support that we could take several historic and major decisions like implementation of GST, abrogation of Article 370, new law on Triple Talaq, Nari Shakti Vandan Act to enhance women’s participation in Parliament, the inauguration of new Parliament building and strong steps against terrorism and Left-Wing Extremism,” the prime minister wrote. Watch: India elections 2024: In 2 Lok Sabha lists, BJP has dropped 21% sitting MPs already “The success of efforts such as pucca houses through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, access to electricity, water and LPG for all, free medical treatments through Ayushman Bharat, financial help to farmers, assistance to women through Matru Vandana Yojana and many more has been possible only due to the trust you have placed in me," he said. “The transformation that has taken place in the lives of the people is the biggest achievement of our government over the last 10 years. These transformative outcomes are the result of the sincere efforts made by a determined government to improve the quality of life for the poor, farmers, youth and women,” the PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: In letter to nation, PM Modi says our partnership at threshold of completing decade

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: </strong>As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise. The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for elections state-wise on Saturday (Mar 16).&nbsp;Ahead of announcing the state-wise election dates, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar pointed out that the election body is committed to fostering a truly "festive" and democratic atmosphere across the nation. Notably, the term of the 17th Lok Sabha is set to conclude on June 16, 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha are also ending in the same month.</p>

<p>Elections are also due in India's Jammu and Kashmir. Moreover, Rajiv Kumar provided statistics as well. He said that there are 970 million registered voters, 1.05 million polling stations, 15 million polling officials and security personnel, 5.5 million Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and 0.4 million vehicles involved in the electoral process.</p>

<h3><em><strong>Here's the Lok Sabha election schedule for these five states -&nbsp;&nbsp;Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal.&nbsp;</strong></em></h3>

<h2>Maharashtra Election 2024</h2>

<p>The polls in India's western state of Maharashtra will be conducted on five polling dates/phases. The state has a total of 48 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The full date schedule is as follows - Voting on five seats will be done on April 19, eight seats will have April 26 as the polling date, 11 seats will vote&nbsp;on May 7, another 11 seats will go to poll&nbsp;on May 13, and 13 seats will witness casting of votes&nbsp;on May 20.</p>

<h2><strong>Karnataka Lok Sabha Election date 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in Karnataka in southwest India will be conducted in two phases. The state has a total of 28 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Election 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be conducted in seven phases.&nbsp; The state has a total of 80 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.</p>

<p><strong>Phase 1 voting:</strong> April 19: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzzafarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Muradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit</p>

<p><strong>Phase 2 voting:</strong> April 26: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Mathura</p>

<p><strong>Phase 3 voting:</strong> May 7: Sambhal, Hathras, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Etah, Badaun, Amla, Bareilly</p>

<p><strong>Phase 4 voting:</strong> May 13: Shahjahanpur (SC), Lakhimpur Kheri, Dhaurahara, Sitapur, Hardoi, Misrikh, Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Bahraich</p>

<p><strong>Phase 5 voting:</strong> May 20: &nbsp;Lucknow, Rae Bareli, Amethi</p>

<h2><strong>Gujarat Election 2024 Dates</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in the Western state of Gujarat will be conducted on a single polling date - May 7, 2024.&nbsp;The state has a total of 26 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>West Bengal Elections 2024 Date</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in India's eastern state will be conducted on seven polling dates.&nbsp;The state has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.</p>

<p><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2024-03/whatsapp_image_2024-03-16_at_4.00.24_pm.jpeg?VersionId=l7CsdoKNGLfoprUFltrCAj6NP3ZblT3f" /></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise. The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for elections state-wise on Saturday (Mar 16). Ahead of announcing the state-wise election dates, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar pointed out that the election body is committed to fostering a truly "festive" and democratic atmosphere across the nation. Notably, the term of the 17th Lok Sabha is set to conclude on June 16, 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha are also ending in the same month. Elections are also due in India's Jammu and Kashmir. Moreover, Rajiv Kumar provided statistics as well. He said that there are 970 million registered voters, 1.05 million polling stations, 15 million polling officials and security personnel, 5.5 million Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and 0.4 million vehicles involved in the electoral process. Here's the Lok Sabha election schedule for these five states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal. Maharashtra Election 2024 The polls in India's western state of Maharashtra will be conducted on five polling dates/phases. The state has a total of 48 Lok Sabha seats. The full date schedule is as follows - Voting on five seats will be done on April 19, eight seats will have April 26 as the polling date, 11 seats will vote on May 7, another 11 seats will go to poll on May 13, and 13 seats will witness casting of votes on May 20. Karnataka Lok Sabha Election date 2024 Elections in Karnataka in southwest India will be conducted in two phases. The state has a total of 28 Lok Sabha seats. Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Election 2024 Elections in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be conducted in seven phases. The state has a total of 80 Lok Sabha seats. The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Phase 1 voting: April 19: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzzafarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Muradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit Phase 2 voting: April 26: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Mathura Phase 3 voting: May 7: Sambhal, Hathras, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Etah, Badaun, Amla, Bareilly Phase 4 voting: May 13: Shahjahanpur (SC), Lakhimpur Kheri, Dhaurahara, Sitapur, Hardoi, Misrikh, Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Bahraich Phase 5 voting: May 20: Lucknow, Rae Bareli, Amethi Gujarat Election 2024 Dates Elections in the Western state of Gujarat will be conducted on a single polling date - May 7, 2024. The state has a total of 26 Lok Sabha seats. West Bengal Elections 2024 Date Elections in India's eastern state will be conducted on seven polling dates. The state has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats. The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024 dates: Election phase, result dates for Maharashtra, Karnataka, UP, Gujarat, and WB

<p>The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry. While speaking over the weighty matters at hand, Kumar's witty remarks and playful wordplay elicited hearty laughter from everyone in attendance.</p>

<p><em><strong>Here's a look at three of the most interesting comments made by the top election official:&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<h2><strong>- Poetic jibe on EVM tampering allegations</strong></h2>

<p>In his comments over allegations of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) tampering, CEC Kumar, with the help of a shayari (poetry), elegantly rebuked parties/leaders who are quick to blame EVMs for their political failures and election losses but conveniently choose to remain silent when the results are in their favour.</p>

<p>"Adhoori hasrato ka ilzaam, har baar hum par lagaana theek nahi, wafa khud se nahi hoti, khataa EVM ki kahete ho, aur baad mein jab parinaam aata hai toh uspe kaayam bhi nahi rahte (pointing fingers at us (EVMs) for your unmet desires every time isn't fair. You can't assure faithfulness to yourself, yet you persist in faulting EVMs. Then, when the outcome pours in, you refuse to acknowledge it.)</p>

<p>The comment by CEC, where he spoke of faithfulness, appeared to be taking a swipe&nbsp;at leaders changing parties, something that often sparks debates and raises questions over their sincerity. Notably, while some argue that such transitions show adaptability, others perceive them as opportunistic manoeuvres driven by personal ambition rather than principled conviction.</p>

<h2><strong>- Combatting fake news</strong></h2>

<p>Taking a firm stance against misinformation, CEC Kumar said that one must try to combat fake news with the mantra - "verify before you amplify." He urged the importance of relying on authoritative sources.</p>

<p>Once more, in his poetic manner and targeting people who forward fake news, he said, "Jhooth ke bazaar mein raunak to bahut hai, goya bulbule jaisi turant hi phat jati hai..Pakad bhi loge to kya haasil hoga siwaye dhokhe ke (There is a lot of excitement in the market of lies, it seems as if a bubble bursts instantly. Even if you catch hold of it, what will you gain except deception?)</p>

<h2><strong>- Transparency in electoral bonds</strong></h2>

<p>Kumar also spoke at length on the electoral bonds, the data of which was recently made public by the poll body after a directive by the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>He stressed the commission's commitment to transparency. "In democracy, there is no scope for hiding things, it is all about making everybody know, we are all for transparency. This is the first part of the exercise that it must be known, the country now has to ask and find solutions through an institutional mechanism where the donor's privacy is also considered," he said.</p>

<p>Kumar added, "The unaccounted money which is used in the elections... during the elections we are very particular to control it but how do we also control the donations in the unaccounted form is something which the entire nation needs to work together... the donor's privacy is also protected so he is not harassed, how the money is channelised and how it is more and more white."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry.

The speech of India's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, while announcing the election schedule for state by-polls, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections on Saturday (Mar 16), was laced with both humour and a dash of poetry. While speaking over the weighty matters at hand, Kumar's witty remarks and playful wordplay elicited hearty laughter from everyone in attendance. Here's a look at three of the most interesting comments made by the top election official: - Poetic jibe on EVM tampering allegations In his comments over allegations of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) tampering, CEC Kumar, with the help of a shayari (poetry), elegantly rebuked parties/leaders who are quick to blame EVMs for their political failures and election losses but conveniently choose to remain silent when the results are in their favour. "Adhoori hasrato ka ilzaam, har baar hum par lagaana theek nahi, wafa khud se nahi hoti, khataa EVM ki kahete ho, aur baad mein jab parinaam aata hai toh uspe kaayam bhi nahi rahte (pointing fingers at us (EVMs) for your unmet desires every time isn't fair. You can't assure faithfulness to yourself, yet you persist in faulting EVMs. Then, when the outcome pours in, you refuse to acknowledge it.) The comment by CEC, where he spoke of faithfulness, appeared to be taking a swipe at leaders changing parties, something that often sparks debates and raises questions over their sincerity. Notably, while some argue that such transitions show adaptability, others perceive them as opportunistic manoeuvres driven by personal ambition rather than principled conviction. - Combatting fake news Taking a firm stance against misinformation, CEC Kumar said that one must try to combat fake news with the mantra - "verify before you amplify." He urged the importance of relying on authoritative sources. Once more, in his poetic manner and targeting people who forward fake news, he said, "Jhooth ke bazaar mein raunak to bahut hai, goya bulbule jaisi turant hi phat jati hai..Pakad bhi loge to kya haasil hoga siwaye dhokhe ke (There is a lot of excitement in the market of lies, it seems as if a bubble bursts instantly. Even if you catch hold of it, what will you gain except deception?) - Transparency in electoral bonds Kumar also spoke at length on the electoral bonds, the data of which was recently made public by the poll body after a directive by the Supreme Court. He stressed the commission's commitment to transparency. "In democracy, there is no scope for hiding things, it is all about making everybody know, we are all for transparency. This is the first part of the exercise that it must be known, the country now has to ask and find solutions through an institutional mechanism where the donor's privacy is also considered," he said. Kumar added, "The unaccounted money which is used in the elections... during the elections we are very particular to control it but how do we also control the donations in the unaccounted form is something which the entire nation needs to work together... the donor's privacy is also protected so he is not harassed, how the money is channelised and how it is more and more white." (With inputs from agencies)

India's Chief Election Commissioner weaves wit, poetry into poll dates announcement. Here are top moments

<p>India's Election Commission on Saturday (March 16) announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in 2024.</p>

<p>The general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be conducted in seven phases from April 19 and the result will be out on June 4, announced Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.</p>

<p>The Chief Election Commissioner announced that a total of 96.8 crore voters are eligible to cast their vote in the elections this year.</p>

<p>During a press briefing, Kumar said that there would be 10.5 lakh polling stations and 1.5 crore polling officials and security staff would be deployed in the country to conduct free and fair polls.</p>

<p>"We are committed to giving the nation a truly festive, democratic environment. The term of the 17th Lok Sabha is due to expire on 16th June 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are also due to expire in June 2024. Elections are due in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.</p>

<p>Kumar, who was also accompanied by the two Election Commissioners while addressing the press conference, said approximately 49.7 crore voters are male and 47.1 crore voters are female.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">General Election to Lok Sabha 2024 - All Phase Map <a href="https://t.co/ils9MiK5U3">pic.twitter.com/ils9MiK5U3</a></p>
— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1768947249726505120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Focus on stopping 4Ms’</strong></h2>

<p>The Election Commissioner during the presser, underlined the main challenges that arise during polls referring to them as the 4Ms.</p>

<p>The four main areas categorised by the EC were:</p>

<p><strong>- Money power<br />
- Muscle power<br />
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations<br />
- Misinformation</strong></p>

<p>ECI stated that it was committed to overcoming the daunting challenges and putting in place measures to ensure fair polls.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The daunting challenges in conducting free and fair elections are four-fold, the 4Ms: muscle, money, misinformation, and MCC violations - CEC Rajiv Kumar<br />
ECI is committed and has put in place measures to deal with these disruptive challenges. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Elections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Elections2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/iABXMLqB81">pic.twitter.com/iABXMLqB81</a></p>
— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1768938776276160695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Muscle power</strong></h2>

<p>In order to combat pre-poll and post-poll violence and disputes, Kumar highlighted that the ECI was deploying an adequate number of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to ensure safety.</p>

<p>He further stated that the CAPF would be assisted by integrated control rooms in each district with webcasting in sensitive booths.</p>

<p>There would also be drone-based checking at the borders.</p>

<p>"There is no place for bloodbath and violence in the elections. From wherever we will receive the information of violence, we will take action against them," Kumar said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-date-announced-check-full-schedule-voting-and-result-of-india-general-elections-700677">Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule</a></p>

<h2><strong>Money power&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the 2022-23 election cycle, cash seizure surged over 800% to Rs 3,400 crore in 11 states compared to five years ago.</p>

<p>Kumar said that the ECI had directed the enforcement agencies "to crack down on illicit money, liquor, drugs, and freebies, staying vigilant against disruptive methods."</p>

<p>The monetary transactions will be scrutinised and the authorities will also thoroughly inspect non-scheduled chartered flights and helicopters in order to prevent illegal transport of contraband or cash.</p>

<h2><strong>Misinformation</strong></h2>

<p>Kumar said that the political parties were advised to ensure responsible social behaviour.</p>

<p>He highlighted that Section (79)(3)(B) of the IT Act provides the nodal officers in each state with the authority to remove unlawful content.</p>

<p>The Election Commission also announced initiatives like 'Myth vs Reality' that aim at debunking false information by spreading facts via its platform.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tackling misinformation in today's digital age is complex. We have put certain measures in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. We're proactive in debunking fake news. Originators of fake news to be dealt with severely as per extant laws: CEC Kumar <a href="https://t.co/LiTy2Pne3X">pic.twitter.com/LiTy2Pne3X</a></p>
— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1768941190580408453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tackling misinformation in today's digital age is complex. We have put certain measures in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. We're proactive in debunking fake news. Originators of fake news are to be dealt with severely as per extant laws," Kumar said.</p>

<p>"Remember, "Verify Before You Amplify" is the mantra to combat fake news. Let's rely on authoritative sources to ensure accurate information prevails. Stay vigilant and help us maintain the integrity of the electoral process," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">चुनाव प्रचार के दौरान plummeting discourse के issue से निपटने के लिए चुनाव आयोग पूरी तरह तैयार है- CEC Kumar<br />
Urge parties to refrain from personal attacks and foul language.No-go areas in speeches are defined to maintain civility.Let's not cross lines in our rivalry <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Elections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Elections</a> <a href="https://t.co/neQdPKWt35">pic.twitter.com/neQdPKWt35</a></p>
— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1768942565712425405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ECI established guidelines which include refraining from hate or religious speeches and divisive statements. Caste and religious appeals are prohibited.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Election Commission on Saturday (March 16) announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in 2024. The general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be conducted in seven phases from April 19 and the result will be out on June 4, announced Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

India's Election Commission on Saturday (March 16) announced the schedule for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in 2024. The general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be conducted in seven phases from April 19 and the result will be out on June 4, announced Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. The Chief Election Commissioner announced that a total of 96.8 crore voters are eligible to cast their vote in the elections this year. During a press briefing, Kumar said that there would be 10.5 lakh polling stations and 1.5 crore polling officials and security staff would be deployed in the country to conduct free and fair polls. "We are committed to giving the nation a truly festive, democratic environment. The term of the 17th Lok Sabha is due to expire on 16th June 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are also due to expire in June 2024. Elections are due in Jammu and Kashmir," he said. Kumar, who was also accompanied by the two Election Commissioners while addressing the press conference, said approximately 49.7 crore voters are male and 47.1 crore voters are female. General Election to Lok Sabha 2024 - All Phase Map pic.twitter.com/ils9MiK5U3 — Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 16, 2024 × ‘Focus on stopping 4Ms’ The Election Commissioner during the presser, underlined the main challenges that arise during polls referring to them as the 4Ms. The four main areas categorised by the EC were: - Money power - Muscle power - Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations - Misinformation ECI stated that it was committed to overcoming the daunting challenges and putting in place measures to ensure fair polls. The daunting challenges in conducting free and fair elections are four-fold, the 4Ms: muscle, money, misinformation, and MCC violations - CEC Rajiv Kumar ECI is committed and has put in place measures to deal with these disruptive challenges. #Elections2024 pic.twitter.com/iABXMLqB81 — Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 16, 2024 × Muscle power In order to combat pre-poll and post-poll violence and disputes, Kumar highlighted that the ECI was deploying an adequate number of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to ensure safety. He further stated that the CAPF would be assisted by integrated control rooms in each district with webcasting in sensitive booths. There would also be drone-based checking at the borders. "There is no place for bloodbath and violence in the elections. From wherever we will receive the information of violence, we will take action against them," Kumar said. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voting from April 19 in 7 phases: Check full schedule Money power In the 2022-23 election cycle, cash seizure surged over 800% to Rs 3,400 crore in 11 states compared to five years ago. Kumar said that the ECI had directed the enforcement agencies "to crack down on illicit money, liquor, drugs, and freebies, staying vigilant against disruptive methods." The monetary transactions will be scrutinised and the authorities will also thoroughly inspect non-scheduled chartered flights and helicopters in order to prevent illegal transport of contraband or cash. Misinformation Kumar said that the political parties were advised to ensure responsible social behaviour. He highlighted that Section (79)(3)(B) of the IT Act provides the nodal officers in each state with the authority to remove unlawful content. The Election Commission also announced initiatives like 'Myth vs Reality' that aim at debunking false information by spreading facts via its platform. Tackling misinformation in today's digital age is complex. We have put certain measures in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. We're proactive in debunking fake news. Originators of fake news to be dealt with severely as per extant laws: CEC Kumar pic.twitter.com/LiTy2Pne3X — Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 16, 2024 × "Tackling misinformation in today's digital age is complex. We have put certain measures in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. We're proactive in debunking fake news. Originators of fake news are to be dealt with severely as per extant laws," Kumar said. "Remember, "Verify Before You Amplify" is the mantra to combat fake news. Let's rely on authoritative sources to ensure accurate information prevails. Stay vigilant and help us maintain the integrity of the electoral process," he added. Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations चुनाव प्रचार के दौरान plummeting discourse के issue से निपटने के लिए चुनाव आयोग पूरी तरह तैयार है- CEC Kumar Urge parties to refrain from personal attacks and foul language.No-go areas in speeches are defined to maintain civility.Let's not cross lines in our rivalry #Elections pic.twitter.com/neQdPKWt35 — Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 16, 2024 × The ECI established guidelines which include refraining from hate or religious speeches and divisive statements. Caste and religious appeals are prohibited. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: 96.8 crore voters eligible to cast vote, ECI vows ‘free and fair’ elections

WION brings you an opinion poll from the India's swing states. This poll has been done by Zee News mattress. Watch in.

India Elections 2024: Opinion poll from swing states

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra resumed from Palghar, Maharashtra today. Notably, Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra rolled out from Manipur’s Thoubal on January 14. It aims to cover 6,700 km through 15 states, with Lok Sabha polls around the corner.

India Elections 2024: Rahul Gandhi resumes Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Palghar in Maharashtra

The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party has released its second list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections. The second list features names of 72 candidates from nine states and two union territories including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Delhi. Watch in for more election updates!

India Elections 2024: BJP releases second list of 72 candidates

<p>Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous.</p>

<p>Nitin Gadkari, a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagpur in Maharashtra, and has won the seat in the 2014 and 2019 general elections.</p>

<p>Thackeray's offer to Gadkari surfaced after the latter's name was notably absent from the BJP's initial list, which announced candidates for 195 seats.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077">BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points</a></p>

<p>Gadkari responded by dismissing the suggestion as immature, emphasising the BJP's established system for ticket distribution.</p>

<p>“The suggestion is immature and ridiculous. The BJP has a system of giving tickets to candidates,” Gadkari told news agency PTI.</p>

<p>The 66-year-old former BJP president expressed confidence in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, winning 400 seats and securing a third consecutive term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>The Lok Sabha polls, anticipated to take place in April-May, hold significance for Maharashtra,&nbsp;which contributes 48 members to the 543-seat Lok Sabha, second only to Uttar Pradesh (80).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiikvCoh--EAxULyzgGHXNkDgEQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1DMk5hYZnvwhaeUgvdNaJy&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247" target="_blank">India Elections 2024:&nbsp;<b>BJP</b>&nbsp;to announce another 99 candidates</a></p>

<p>Uddhav Thackeray, addressing a meeting on March 3, had criticised the BJP for excluding Gadkari from their candidates' list. Thackeray suggested that Gadkari should display Maharashtra's resilience by resigning instead of yielding to Delhi, pledging support for his election as an MVA candidate.</p>

<p>The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and the Sharad Pawar faction of&nbsp;Nationalist Congress Party, while the BJP governs Maharashtra in collaboration with the Shiv Sena and NCP.</p>

<p>Despite the political manoeuvring, both the NDA and MVA face challenges in finalising a seat-sharing arrangement ahead of the upcoming polls.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiikvCoh--EAxULyzgGHXNkDgEQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw30D4azN6VurXZ-rtdNAzX1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073" target="_blank"><b>BJP</b>&nbsp;hails PM for CAA implementation</a></p>

<p>Earlier, BJP released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP has attempted to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces. The party led by JP Nadda has also attempted to balance the social representation on caste lines.</p>

<p>The first list included 28 women and 47 candidates below 50 years of age.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous. Nitin Gadkari, a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagpur in Maharashtra, and has won the seat in the 2014 and 2019 general elections. Thackeray's offer to Gadkari surfaced after the latter's name was notably absent from the BJP's initial list, which announced candidates for 195 seats. Also read: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points Gadkari responded by dismissing the suggestion as immature, emphasising the BJP's established system for ticket distribution. “The suggestion is immature and ridiculous. The BJP has a system of giving tickets to candidates,” Gadkari told news agency PTI. The 66-year-old former BJP president expressed confidence in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, winning 400 seats and securing a third consecutive term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Lok Sabha polls, anticipated to take place in April-May, hold significance for Maharashtra, which contributes 48 members to the 543-seat Lok Sabha, second only to Uttar Pradesh (80). Also read: India Elections 2024: BJP to announce another 99 candidates Uddhav Thackeray, addressing a meeting on March 3, had criticised the BJP for excluding Gadkari from their candidates' list. Thackeray suggested that Gadkari should display Maharashtra's resilience by resigning instead of yielding to Delhi, pledging support for his election as an MVA candidate. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and the Sharad Pawar faction of Nationalist Congress Party, while the BJP governs Maharashtra in collaboration with the Shiv Sena and NCP. Despite the political manoeuvring, both the NDA and MVA face challenges in finalising a seat-sharing arrangement ahead of the upcoming polls. Also read: BJP hails PM for CAA implementation Earlier, BJP released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP has attempted to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces. The party led by JP Nadda has also attempted to balance the social representation on caste lines. The first list included 28 women and 47 candidates below 50 years of age. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Nitin Gadkari rejects Uddhav’s invitation to contest Lok Sabha polls for MVA

The BJP accounted for more than half of the expenditure incurred by 10 political parties in Uttar Pradesh in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, according to a report released by the Association for Democratic Reforms.

India Elections 2024: How much a private charter costs per hour for poll campaigning

The Government of India notified the rules of the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019. The notification has triggered a fresh row over secularism and appeasement in India. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: War of words between Amit Shah and Mamata Banerjee

Assam gears up for PM Modi's two-day visit, includes inauguration of infrastructure and heritage projects totaling Rs 18,000 crore. Watch in for more updates on India's Lok Sabha Election 2024.

India Election 2024: Assam gears up for PM Modi's visit

<p>Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an&nbsp;MP of&nbsp;Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadda has resigned from Himachal Pradesh and he was among 57 Rajya Sabha MPs whose tenure was ending next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This announcement comes days after he was elected to the Upper House from Gujarat unopposed. Jasvantsinh Parmar, Mayank Nayak and diamond baron Govindbhai Dholakia were among other BJP nominees who were also declared winners from Gujarat state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-shiv-sena-ubt-chief-sanjay-raut-slams-calcutta-high-court-judge-over-aspirations-to-join-politics-696596">Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The BJP chief said that his resignation was accepted by the Rajya Sabha chairman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, an elected member of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), representing the State of Himachal Pradesh, resigned his seat in the Rajya Sabha and his resignation has been accepted by the Chairman, Rajya Sabha w.e.f 4th March, 2024," a Rajya Sabha parliamentary bulletin read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have claimed&nbsp;that he might contest the upcoming Indian General Election.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BJP National President JP Nadda resigns from his position as Rajya Sabha MP and his resignation has been accepted by Rajya Sabha Chairman <a href="https://t.co/Nvr8Pg1pFU">pic.twitter.com/Nvr8Pg1pFU</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1764667083231486463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-jp-nadda-resigns-from-upper-house-of-parliament-ahead-of-indian-general-election-696533">BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>BJP's preparation for the Lok Sabha Elections&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>BJP on Saturday released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The list included 47 youth candidates and 28 women candidates. A total of 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) faces, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class nominees have been added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fight the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi, meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi chaired a day-long meeting with his Council of Ministers and told them: "Go, win. I will see you soon".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The key meeting was held to discuss the vision document 'Viksit Bharat 2047' as well as to debate a specific action plan for the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</i></p>


Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an MP of Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Monday (Mar 4) announced his resignation from his position as an MP of Rajya Sabha from the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Nadda has resigned from Himachal Pradesh and he was among 57 Rajya Sabha MPs whose tenure was ending next month. This announcement comes days after he was elected to the Upper House from Gujarat unopposed. Jasvantsinh Parmar, Mayank Nayak and diamond baron Govindbhai Dholakia were among other BJP nominees who were also declared winners from Gujarat state. Also read: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Sanjay Raut slams Calcutta high court judge over aspirations to join politics The BJP chief said that his resignation was accepted by the Rajya Sabha chairman. "Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, an elected member of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), representing the State of Himachal Pradesh, resigned his seat in the Rajya Sabha and his resignation has been accepted by the Chairman, Rajya Sabha w.e.f 4th March, 2024," a Rajya Sabha parliamentary bulletin read. Reports have claimed that he might contest the upcoming Indian General Election. BJP National President JP Nadda resigns from his position as Rajya Sabha MP and his resignation has been accepted by Rajya Sabha Chairman pic.twitter.com/Nvr8Pg1pFU — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2024 × Also read: BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of Parliament ahead of Indian General Election BJP's preparation for the Lok Sabha Elections BJP on Saturday released its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The list included 47 youth candidates and 28 women candidates. A total of 27 Scheduled Caste (SC) faces, 18 Scheduled Tribes (ST) candidates and 57 OBC/Backward Class nominees have been added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fight the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi, meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar. PM Modi chaired a day-long meeting with his Council of Ministers and told them: "Go, win. I will see you soon". The key meeting was held to discuss the vision document 'Viksit Bharat 2047' as well as to debate a specific action plan for the next five years. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP president JP Nadda resigns from upper house of parliament ahead of Indian general election

<p>Sonia Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress, wrote an emotional letter dated Wednesday (Feb 14) to the voters of her Rae Bareli constituency in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid speculations, Gandhi revealed that due to health and age issues, she will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Rae Bareli - a constituency she has represented since 2004.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the letter, which was in Hindi, she told the voters, "I am proud to say that whatever I am today, I am because of you and I have always done my best to honour your trust. Now on account of health and age issues, I will not contest the next Lok Sabha election."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sandeshkhali-section-144-imposed-again-despite-calcutta-hc-order-in-trouble-hit-areas-690445">Sandeshkhali sex abuse row - Section 144 slapped again despite Calcutta HC order in trouble-hit areas</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">CPP चेयरपर्सन श्रीमती सोनिया गांधी जी का रायबरेली की जनता के नाम संदेश- <a href="https://t.co/6zlJkWjwvi">pic.twitter.com/6zlJkWjwvi</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1758023821934883202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"After this decision, I will not have the opportunity to serve you directly but my heart and soul will always remain with you," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a veiled reference, the 77-year-old hinted that the party&nbsp;might field another member of the Gandhi family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know that you will stand by me and my family in future, just as you have in the past," the letter further read, as&nbsp;speculations are rife of&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the upcoming polls from Rae Bareli.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tamil-nadu-assembly-passes-resolution-against-delimitation-one-nation-one-election-690342">Tamil Nadu assembly passes resolutions against delimitation, ‘One Nation One Election’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian Supreme Court strikes down electoral bonds ahead of elections</strong></p>

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<p>This comes a day after the Congress party nominated Sonia Gandhi and senior leaders Ajay Maken and Abhishek Singhvi for the Rajya Sabha election to be held on February 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi, who was accompanied by her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra besides former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, filed her nomination papers in Jaipur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 77-year-old former Congress president is set to enter the Upper House for the first time from Rajasthan. Gandhi will fill the seat that is going to&nbsp;fall vacant in April&nbsp;after former prime minister Manmohan Sigh completes his Rajya Sabha tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Sonia Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress, wrote an emotional letter dated Wednesday (Feb 14) to the voters of her Rae Bareli constituency in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Sonia Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress, wrote an emotional letter dated Wednesday (Feb 14) to the voters of her Rae Bareli constituency in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Amid speculations, Gandhi revealed that due to health and age issues, she will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election from Rae Bareli - a constituency she has represented since 2004. In the letter, which was in Hindi, she told the voters, "I am proud to say that whatever I am today, I am because of you and I have always done my best to honour your trust. Now on account of health and age issues, I will not contest the next Lok Sabha election." Also read: Sandeshkhali sex abuse row - Section 144 slapped again despite Calcutta HC order in trouble-hit areas CPP चेयरपर्सन श्रीमती सोनिया गांधी जी का रायबरेली की जनता के नाम संदेश- pic.twitter.com/6zlJkWjwvi — Congress (@INCIndia) February 15, 2024 × "After this decision, I will not have the opportunity to serve you directly but my heart and soul will always remain with you," she added. In a veiled reference, the 77-year-old hinted that the party might field another member of the Gandhi family. "I know that you will stand by me and my family in future, just as you have in the past," the letter further read, as speculations are rife of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the upcoming polls from Rae Bareli. Also read: Tamil Nadu assembly passes resolutions against delimitation, ‘One Nation One Election’ Watch: Indian Supreme Court strikes down electoral bonds ahead of elections × This comes a day after the Congress party nominated Sonia Gandhi and senior leaders Ajay Maken and Abhishek Singhvi for the Rajya Sabha election to be held on February 27. Gandhi, who was accompanied by her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra besides former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, filed her nomination papers in Jaipur. The 77-year-old former Congress president is set to enter the Upper House for the first time from Rajasthan. Gandhi will fill the seat that is going to fall vacant in April after former prime minister Manmohan Sigh completes his Rajya Sabha tenure. (With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi pens emotional letter to Rae Bareli voters, reveals why she won't contest in India elections

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued.<br />
<br />
Lambasting the opposition,&nbsp;Amit Shah said at an event in New Delhi, "They're misleading and inciting our Muslim brothers (to oppose the CAA).&nbsp;Only people who fled persecution in Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Bangladesh and arrived in India are intended to be granted citizenship under the CAA. The purpose of it is not to take away someone's Indian citizenship."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Union Minister predicted that the NDA will win over 400 seats and the BJP would win 370 seats in the next elections, allowing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to head the government for a record three terms. Shah asserted that there is no suspense over the outcome of the Lok Sabha polls and even the Congress and other opposition parties have realised that they will again have to sit on the opposition benches.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-minister-amit-shah-reiterates-no-one-can-stop-implementation-of-caa-674070">Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates ‘no one can stop’ implementation of CAA</a></p>

<p>"We revoked Article 370 (of the Constitution, which granted the former state of Jammu and Kashmir a special status). Therefore, it is our belief that the nation's voters will grant the BJP 370 seats and the NDA nearly 400 seats," Shah added.</p>

<p>The home minister indicated that more parties might join the ruling coalition when asked if the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD)&nbsp;led by Jayant Choudhary, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and a few other regional parties could join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).&nbsp;The BJP "believes in family planning but not in politics", indicating that more parties may join the coalition.&nbsp;When pressed further on SAD, he said, "Talks are going on but nothing has been finalised."</p>

<p>Shah stated that the election of 2024 will be between development and those who offer just platitudes, rather than between the NDA and the opposition coalition in India.</p>

<p>When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, he responded that the Nehru-Gandhi scion had no right to carry out the march because his party was in charge of the nation's 1947 partition.<br />
<br />
Shah explained that the timeliness of the government's white paper before Parliament was essential, stating that the nation had a right to know about the devastation the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by the Congress, left behind when it was voted out of power by the people in 2014.</p>

<p>"The economy was in rough shape in 2014. Scams were everywhere. There were no foreign investments coming in. The world would have received the wrong impression if we had brought out a white paper at that moment."</p>

<p>"However, ten years later, our administration has brought in foreign investment, revitalised the economy, and eradicated all corruption. Thus, it is the appropriate moment to release the white paper," he stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued. Lambasting the opposition, Amit Shah said at an event in New Delhi, "They're misleading and inciting our Muslim brothers (to oppose the CAA). Only people who fled persecution in Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Bangladesh and arrived in India are intended to be granted citizenship under the CAA. The purpose of it is not to take away someone's Indian citizenship." The Union Minister predicted that the NDA will win over 400 seats and the BJP would win 370 seats in the next elections, allowing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to head the government for a record three terms. Shah asserted that there is no suspense over the outcome of the Lok Sabha polls and even the Congress and other opposition parties have realised that they will again have to sit on the opposition benches. Also Read: Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates ‘no one can stop’ implementation of CAA "We revoked Article 370 (of the Constitution, which granted the former state of Jammu and Kashmir a special status). Therefore, it is our belief that the nation's voters will grant the BJP 370 seats and the NDA nearly 400 seats," Shah added. The home minister indicated that more parties might join the ruling coalition when asked if the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) led by Jayant Choudhary, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and a few other regional parties could join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The BJP "believes in family planning but not in politics", indicating that more parties may join the coalition. When pressed further on SAD, he said, "Talks are going on but nothing has been finalised." Shah stated that the election of 2024 will be between development and those who offer just platitudes, rather than between the NDA and the opposition coalition in India. When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, he responded that the Nehru-Gandhi scion had no right to carry out the march because his party was in charge of the nation's 1947 partition. Shah explained that the timeliness of the government's white paper before Parliament was essential, stating that the nation had a right to know about the devastation the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by the Congress, left behind when it was voted out of power by the people in 2014. "The economy was in rough shape in 2014. Scams were everywhere. There were no foreign investments coming in. The world would have received the wrong impression if we had brought out a white paper at that moment." "However, ten years later, our administration has brought in foreign investment, revitalised the economy, and eradicated all corruption. Thus, it is the appropriate moment to release the white paper," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

India: CAA will be implemented before upcoming Lok Sabha elections, says Amit Shah

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Jan 25) kicked off his Lok Sabha election campaign in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr. In Bulandshahar, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over $2.29 billion (around Rs 19,100 crore). Earlier, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that these projects are related to several important sectors like rail, road, oil and gas and urban development and housing," the statement said.</p>

<p>Modi dedicated to the nation the 173 Km-long double-electrified section between New Khurja - and New Rewari on the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) by flagging off goods trains from the two stations through video conferencing. The PMO said that the new DFC section is important as it establishes crucial connectivity between Western and Eastern DFCs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"...No government has done as much work for the farmers as our government. In the last 10 years, our small farmers have got the direct benefit of every public welfare scheme," Modi said during the rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/macron-in-india-french-president-modi-to-hold-talks-tour-jaipur-city-on-thursday-683324">Macron in India: French president, Modi to hold talks, tour Jaipur city on Thursday</a></strong></p>

<p>"I saw that some media channels were saying that Modi is set to sound the poll bugle (for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections) today. Modi sounds bugle of development...Modi doesn't need to sound the poll bugle, the public does this for Modi," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi addressing a public rally in UP's Bulandshahr, "...In the last 10 years of our government, 25 crore people have been alleviated from poverty...Aapka sapna hi mera sankalp hai." <a href="https://t.co/wKgOG4BSOQ">pic.twitter.com/wKgOG4BSOQ</a></p>
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<p>Modi also dedicated multiple road development projects to the nation and will inaugurate Indian Oil's Tundla-Gawaria Pipeline. The pipeline has been built for $84.18 million, and this 255-kilometre pipeline project has been completed well ahead of the scheduled time.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Deepfake threat in Lok Sabha polls</strong></p>

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<p>Further, Modi inaugurated the Integrated Industrial Township at Greater Noida&nbsp;(IITGN), and the renovated Mathura sewerage scheme, including the construction of the sewage treatment plant (STP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leaders and workers of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have been actively involved in preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, anticipating a significant turnout in Bulandshahr, a report by the news agency IANS said. The BJP holds eight out of 14 seats in western Uttar Pradesh, with defeats in six constituencies in 2019.</p>

<p>The report added that PM Modi is set to connect with voters and supporters in previously contested areas, sharing the secret for victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Jan 25) kicked off his Lok Sabha election campaign in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr. In Bulandshahar, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over $2.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Jan 25) kicked off his Lok Sabha election campaign in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr. In Bulandshahar, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over $2.29 billion (around Rs 19,100 crore). Earlier, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that these projects are related to several important sectors like rail, road, oil and gas and urban development and housing," the statement said. Modi dedicated to the nation the 173 Km-long double-electrified section between New Khurja - and New Rewari on the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) by flagging off goods trains from the two stations through video conferencing. The PMO said that the new DFC section is important as it establishes crucial connectivity between Western and Eastern DFCs. "...No government has done as much work for the farmers as our government. In the last 10 years, our small farmers have got the direct benefit of every public welfare scheme," Modi said during the rally. Also read | Macron in India: French president, Modi to hold talks, tour Jaipur city on Thursday "I saw that some media channels were saying that Modi is set to sound the poll bugle (for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections) today. Modi sounds bugle of development...Modi doesn't need to sound the poll bugle, the public does this for Modi," he added. #WATCH | PM Modi addressing a public rally in UP's Bulandshahr, "...In the last 10 years of our government, 25 crore people have been alleviated from poverty...Aapka sapna hi mera sankalp hai." pic.twitter.com/wKgOG4BSOQ — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × Modi also dedicated multiple road development projects to the nation and will inaugurate Indian Oil's Tundla-Gawaria Pipeline. The pipeline has been built for $84.18 million, and this 255-kilometre pipeline project has been completed well ahead of the scheduled time. Also watch | Deepfake threat in Lok Sabha polls × Further, Modi inaugurated the Integrated Industrial Township at Greater Noida (IITGN), and the renovated Mathura sewerage scheme, including the construction of the sewage treatment plant (STP). Leaders and workers of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have been actively involved in preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, anticipating a significant turnout in Bulandshahr, a report by the news agency IANS said. The BJP holds eight out of 14 seats in western Uttar Pradesh, with defeats in six constituencies in 2019. The report added that PM Modi is set to connect with voters and supporters in previously contested areas, sharing the secret for victory. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha election 2024: Indian PM Modi launches poll campaign with rally in UP's Bulandshahr

<p>The opposition INDIA alliance on Sunday (Jan 7) finalised its seat sharing in Bihar, ahead of the Lok Sabha election in India. A formula of 17+17+4+2 has been decided for the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The formula was decided during a meeting between the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The ruling Janata Dal (United) and the RJD will contest the election on 17 seats each.</p>

<p>The Congress will contest the poll on four Lok Sabha seats and one Rajya Sabha seat. The remaining two seats in the Lok Sabha will be given to the Left parties.</p>

<p>Sunday's meeting in New Delhi was attended by RJD leader Manoj Jha, and Congress leaders Ashok Gehlot, Salman Khurshid and Mukul Wasnik.</p>

<p>Following the meeting, Salman Khurshid said, "The meeting will continue with various parties. In the meeting, we are first presenting our understanding about the seats there and then asking them for their assessment."</p>

<p>"In the meeting, we are first presenting our understanding about the seats there and then asking them for their assessment," Khurshid said, adding a meeting with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will be held on Monday.</p>

<p>A meeting with the JD(U) will be held in the next 1-2 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The INDIA alliance is a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the AAP. Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general election.</p>


The opposition INDIA alliance on Sunday (Jan 7) finalised its seat sharing in Bihar, ahead of the Lok Sabha election in India. A formula of 17+17+4+2 has been decided for the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

The opposition INDIA alliance on Sunday (Jan 7) finalised its seat sharing in Bihar, ahead of the Lok Sabha election in India. A formula of 17+17+4+2 has been decided for the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The formula was decided during a meeting between the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The ruling Janata Dal (United) and the RJD will contest the election on 17 seats each. The Congress will contest the poll on four Lok Sabha seats and one Rajya Sabha seat. The remaining two seats in the Lok Sabha will be given to the Left parties. Sunday's meeting in New Delhi was attended by RJD leader Manoj Jha, and Congress leaders Ashok Gehlot, Salman Khurshid and Mukul Wasnik. Following the meeting, Salman Khurshid said, "The meeting will continue with various parties. In the meeting, we are first presenting our understanding about the seats there and then asking them for their assessment." "In the meeting, we are first presenting our understanding about the seats there and then asking them for their assessment," Khurshid said, adding a meeting with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will be held on Monday. A meeting with the JD(U) will be held in the next 1-2 days. The INDIA alliance is a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the AAP. Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate. The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general election.

Lok Sabha poll: INDIA alliance’s seat sharing in Bihar finalised. Details here

<p>The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies. In the run-up to these elections, there have been discussions of the top contenders, their stronghold constituencies, the public's mood, and result predictions. A victory in any of these elections would change the course of global politics, trade, diplomacy, and security.</p>

<p>The most important elections to look out for are the general elections in India, South Africa, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and&nbsp;Pakistan. The presidential elections that will grab headlines in 2024 include those in the United States, Russia, Croatia, Finland, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.</p>

<p>Also in 2024, elections will be held for the European Parliament and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).</p>

<p><strong>Here's a look at the most important elections:</strong></p>

<h3><strong>1) Lok Sabha election: India</strong></h3>

<p>The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties</a></strong></p>

<p>The right-wing ruling party will be in a battle&nbsp;with the recently formed INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance)&nbsp;alliance- a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).&nbsp;Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate. The BJP and its allies have not declared a PM face yet.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>2) Presidential election: US</strong></h3>

<p>The presidential election in the US is expected to be held in November. The top contenders are current President Joe Biden and Republican veteran and former president Donald Trump. Other top candidates in the race include Republicans Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, and&nbsp;William Asa Hutchinson; and Democrats Marianne Williamson and&nbsp;Dean Phillips. The independents include John F&nbsp;Kennedy's nephew Robert, Cornel West, and Jill Stein. Though Donald Trump is emerging as the favourable choice among Americans, the 77-year-old is facing the legal system's heat in four separate criminal cases.</p>

<h3><strong>3) General and presidential elections: Pakistan</strong></h3>

<p>Economic crisis-hit Pakistan will vote for a general election in early February, and a presidential election the next month. Top parties in the fray are the&nbsp;Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), the&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from the PML-N, who came back to Pakistan in October after four years in exile, will contest the February election.</p>

<p>Sharif is the longest-serving PM of Pakistan, having&nbsp;served in the top post for three non-consecutive terms. He is bidding for a fourth premiership but faces the biggest challenge from his main rival and former PM Imran Khan-&nbsp;who, despite being in jail for graft, remains popular following his ouster as PM in 2022.</p>

<p>Reports have emerged that the son of UN-designated terrorist and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-son-of-un-designated-terrorist-gearing-up-for-elections-india-slams-675045">Hafiz Saeed</a>&nbsp;</strong>will be contesting the election.</p>

<h3><strong>4) Presidential election: Russia and Ukraine</strong></h3>

<p>Russia and Ukraine, which have been fighting a war since late February 2022, will be holding their presidential election in 2024. Russian President Vladimir Putin will be running for president again, a decision allowing him&nbsp;to extend his decades-long grip on power. The presidential election in Russia will be held on March 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine is supposed to hold a presidential vote in March. However, the Volodymyr Zelensky government enacted martial law in response to the Russian offensive on Feb 24, 2022 due to whihc the country cannot hold elections. On Nov 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister&nbsp;Dmytro Kuleba said that President Zelensky was weighing the pros and cons of the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not closing this page. The president of Ukraine is considering and weighing the different pros and cons," Foreign Minister Kuleba told Reuters, adding&nbsp;that elections would bring unprecedented challenges.</p>

<h3><strong>5) General election: Bangladesh</strong></h3>

<p>The general election in Bangladesh will be held on Jan 7.&nbsp;Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is eyeing another term with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). In 2023, the country saw&nbsp;violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Hasina and for a&nbsp;caretaker government. Many people died in the protests and thousands of opposition leaders and activists were arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-elections-2024-pm-sheikh-hasina-led-14-party-alliance-to-head-to-polls-667359">Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls</a></strong></p>

<p>The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, previously said that it would boycott the election&nbsp;if Hasina did not step down, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies.

The year 2024 will see multiple elections worldwide- from choosing prime ministers, presidents, and their administrations, and also heads of parliaments, and international agencies. In the run-up to these elections, there have been discussions of the top contenders, their stronghold constituencies, the public's mood, and result predictions. A victory in any of these elections would change the course of global politics, trade, diplomacy, and security. The most important elections to look out for are the general elections in India, South Africa, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The presidential elections that will grab headlines in 2024 include those in the United States, Russia, Croatia, Finland, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Also in 2024, elections will be held for the European Parliament and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Here's a look at the most important elections: 1) Lok Sabha election: India The general election in India is expected to be held between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha- Parliament's lower house. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha will end on June 16. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive victory in the general elections. Also read: Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties The right-wing ruling party will be in a battle with the recently formed INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) alliance- a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Recently, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee proposed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's name as a prime ministerial candidate. The BJP and its allies have not declared a PM face yet. 2) Presidential election: US The presidential election in the US is expected to be held in November. The top contenders are current President Joe Biden and Republican veteran and former president Donald Trump. Other top candidates in the race include Republicans Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, and William Asa Hutchinson; and Democrats Marianne Williamson and Dean Phillips. The independents include John F Kennedy's nephew Robert, Cornel West, and Jill Stein. Though Donald Trump is emerging as the favourable choice among Americans, the 77-year-old is facing the legal system's heat in four separate criminal cases. 3) General and presidential elections: Pakistan Economic crisis-hit Pakistan will vote for a general election in early February, and a presidential election the next month. Top parties in the fray are the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from the PML-N, who came back to Pakistan in October after four years in exile, will contest the February election. Sharif is the longest-serving PM of Pakistan, having served in the top post for three non-consecutive terms. He is bidding for a fourth premiership but faces the biggest challenge from his main rival and former PM Imran Khan- who, despite being in jail for graft, remains popular following his ouster as PM in 2022. Reports have emerged that the son of UN-designated terrorist and 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed will be contesting the election. 4) Presidential election: Russia and Ukraine Russia and Ukraine, which have been fighting a war since late February 2022, will be holding their presidential election in 2024. Russian President Vladimir Putin will be running for president again, a decision allowing him to extend his decades-long grip on power. The presidential election in Russia will be held on March 17. Ukraine is supposed to hold a presidential vote in March. However, the Volodymyr Zelensky government enacted martial law in response to the Russian offensive on Feb 24, 2022 due to whihc the country cannot hold elections. On Nov 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that President Zelensky was weighing the pros and cons of the election. "We are not closing this page. The president of Ukraine is considering and weighing the different pros and cons," Foreign Minister Kuleba told Reuters, adding that elections would bring unprecedented challenges. 5) General election: Bangladesh The general election in Bangladesh will be held on Jan 7. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is eyeing another term with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). In 2023, the country saw violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Hasina and for a caretaker government. Many people died in the protests and thousands of opposition leaders and activists were arrested. Also read: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, previously said that it would boycott the election if Hasina did not step down, Reuters reported. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Lok Sabha election to US presidential poll: What to expect in 2024

For the second high-profile Opposition unity meeting, at least 26 'like-minded' political groups are expected to meet on Monday in Bengaluru, Karnataka, to decide how to challenge the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party in the Lok Sabha elections of 2024. Outside the Bengaluru location of the unified opposition conference was a poster depicting opposition leaders. Outside the Bengaluru location of the unified opposition conference was a poster depicting opposition leaders.

Opposition meeting in Bengaluru to be game changer, says Congress party